Haldrek Rodreksson has known his entire life where his future lies and what is expected of him. But on the eve of battle, soothsayers show him three visions of a different future: a mysterious young woman, a new invasion, and theft of the High King’s tokens. Visions which make him question his future and that of his homeland, Lohikärra.
When the capital of Lohikärra falls, Haldrek’s world is thrown into disarray and he must scramble to keep the young woman from his visions safe.
Injured, weaponless, and with little support, will Haldrek be able to save the woman and change the visions he was given? Or will he, his homeland, and his loved ones fall to their enemies?
This little prequel caught me by surprise. It was an intriguing introduction to a series and I found myself pulled in, wanting to know more about the brave men and women and the mystical dragons trying to protect and guide them. It was a clean read, no swearing or sex, but there are some epic battle sequences that are appropriately horrible and grim without being unnecessarily gory. They won’t leave a pleasant taste in your mouth though…but that is the nature of war. I am definitely going to grab book one to find out what happens to Haldrek and Ina.
Who knew that Lohikärra was linked to North Dakota? What a brutal change for Ina to come through a video game and end up in a war. The war is the story for this book. The magic is in the ability to commune with dragons and have visions of the possible future. The close linkage I was hoping for was not there. As others have noted there are some intense battle scenes as Lohikärra fights to save itself from the invaders.
It had epic battles, frightening prophecies, and characters you root for. If you're looking for a quick read, this one is excellent (but fair warning that you'll want to read more). I'm eager to dive into the series after this prequel!