Despite Alfred's great victory at Edington, Wessex is far from secure.
With the threat of an imminent attack from a large force of Vikings who
have camped on the banks of the Thames at London, Matthew is sent to
fortify the settlement at Leatherhead and, whilst there, train the local
fyrd. Hopelessly outnumbered, he faces his sternest test as he and a
small band of untrained warriors strive to hold off the attack long
enough for help to arrive--or die trying. In a time ravaged by political
uncertainty, Matthew is placed in intense personal danger as he's also
ordered to investigate the tyranny of Ealdorman's son and dispense
justice as he sees fit--a responsibility which rests heavy on his young
shoulders. Given that he still carries the wound to his chest, what is
asked of him seems more than most men could endure as he faces--The
Final Reckoning.