A fragile peace governs the kingdoms of Wessex, East Anglia and Mercia. Uhtred, her greatest warrior, controls the northern parts from the strongly fortified city of Chester. The Northmen come in force under the cover of night, led by the terrifying Viking warrior, Ragnall Iverson, a fierce fighter and ruthless leader. Uhtred will stop at nothing to take back his corner of Northumbria and secure the future of Bebbanburg.