This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.

Set in ancient Scotland just before 1000AD this story is one of a young man coming into his own. Ivor Bracken, ninth son and runner for Thane Carrack, is sent to bring back the wizard Rorie the Sellsword to help his thane. It is a story of adventure, intellect, puzzles, intrigue and derring-do. Ivor is a young man who is coming into his own. He has big dreams, is able to memorize and carry messages easily and is able to think outside the box. This is a book that is targeted for YA audiences but kept me interested throughout the entire story even wanting to read what would happen next. The characters were believable and interesting and the plot delightful. I felt I was tired and hungry on the mountain path with Ivor and later filled with pride after he had won a race. This is a book I would recommend to anyone. There is no violence or foul language. I applaud Dave Duncan for writing such an interesting tale! (  )