After The Dark Mirror, I had high expectations for the next installment of the Bridei Chronicles. I was not disappointed.

Blade of Fortriu follows mostly Faolan, Bridei's most trusted bodyguard and spy, and Ana, the palace hostage from the Light Isles. In the book Ana is finally, at the age of 19, sent off to be married to a powerful cheiftan in order to form an alliance and ensure that Alpin, Ana's intended, does not assist the Gael's during wartime. Unfortunately, little is know about Alpin and his holdings. So, Ana is sent blindly into this arrangement knowing nothing about her potential husband. All she knows is that she has a duty to the gods and Fortriu. Bridei sends Faolan along to entrust Ana gets to Alpin safely and also to ensure that Alpin is trustworthy and will honor the alliance that is bound within the marriage contract.

While Ana and Faolan make the way to Alpin's stronghold, Bridei and his army cement their plans to move against the Gaels sooner rather than later.

Tuala, Bridei's wife and Queen of Fortriu, is dealing with her son's ever developing gifts and his odd relationship with Broichan, the King's druid and foster father.

Blade of Fortriu has it all! War, romance, magic and a plot that keeps you interested from start to finish. Juliet Marillier has one my heart yet again with this novel.