Brind and the Dogs of War
Brind is no ordinary boy; he was raised with dogs and has a strong bond with the alpha-male mastiff, Glaive. Their master, Sir Edward, is not a wealthy knight, but he decides to take his pack to the Battle of Crecy along with Brind.
Tullo, his huntsman, who is both cruel to and jealous of Brind’s understanding of the mastiffs, is far from pleased about this. The dogs obey the boy and are loyal to him. It is a journey that will ignite Brind’s imagination, and cause him disgrace, grief and pain. Tullo hopes to discredit him at every opportunity and inflict his vengeance upon the youth.
Brind’s journey and development is aided by a feisty young French girl, Aurelie, whose own life is also in turmoil, and who is living in her own isolation. Tullo even plans to take control of Sir Edward’s estate when the opportunity presents itself.
This unusual story is action packed. The relationships are complex, encompassing love, hate, jealousy, loyalty, betrayal and honour. All the main characters grow and change as the adventure unfolds. It is a story set in a violent age, where harsh justice is ultimately served. The writer engages the reader with his skill of graphically portraying the people, places, and action. This is a very good read and has a satisfying ending.
