Historical novel. In 855 there is a fragile peace in England. The Danes have occupied most of the country, only Wessex in the south is still free. Its king, Alfred, commissions Uhtred the Fighter to recapture the great city of Lundene. Whoever holds it controls the Thames, England's lifeline. But it is not Uhtred who is to rule, but his incompetent cousin Aethelred. Uhtred feels bound by his oath and takes the city for Aethelred. But Aethelred promptly commits a terrible stupidity, and his pregnant wife falls into the hands of the Northmen. Only one ventures into the enemy camp: Uthred. Meanwhile, a surprise awaits him there...
