title: A Norse Tale: The Journey of a Captive
author: Ballester, Katherine
description: An Adventurous Tale of Love, Conflict, and Heroism in the Viking Age…
  The year is 907, in the turmoil of the Dark Ages. Ellea's peaceful life in the countryside of Northern France is abruptly shattered when Norse raiders sweep upon her village. Captured with her people, her life is saved by the young Jarl Eoher, who wishes to take her for his captive - but he leaves the choice to her. It is only when her courageous brother faces death that Ellea finally takes the first step on the path destined for her, a path interwoven with the foundation of Normandy. Can she sacrifice herself for those she loves? With her Faith alone to guide her, she embarks on her new life in Norway. Her healing skills, lively spirit and virtuous character win the Jarl's heart, but Ellea still struggles with her past and her present. Caught up in the ongoing war between Eoher and his vengeful uncle Morhelm, Ellea's courage and love are once more put to the test. Treachery, capture, human sacrifice, and Morhelm's dreadful injury - all combine to threaten the realization of her ultimate goal. Yet, aided by a young white stallion and her long-lost brother, she determines the Jarl's fate more decisively than does the final desperate battle, proving to him the depth of true love, the reward of trust, and the power of suffering…