The Royal Ranger: Dual at Araluen

Summary: Book 3 in the Ranger's Apprentice The Royal Ranger series, Princess Cassandra and King Duncan have managed to make it safely to the south tower of Castle Araluen only to be trapped there by the Red Fox Clan, a cult wanting to prevent a woman from taking the throne led by someone they use to trust. Many miles away a similar situation has Horace, Commander Gilan, and the Araluen troops trapped with little food and water. With Maddie, a princess turned Ranger, as the only means of rescue for everyone, she seeks the help of a group of Skandians to break out her father and the kingdom's military prior to attempting to take back the kingdom before her mother and grandfather are killed and the Red Fox Clan takes control of Araluen.

Suggested age rating: 13+ based on some violence and minor language.

Review: After the lackluster previous installment I was a little apprehensive when starting this novel, though I'm glad I did decide to continue on to this novel because it was excellent cover to cover. With the cliffhanger from book 2, this novel was a drastic change from its predecessor as it was full of non-stop action, character development, as well as a very satisfying ending. This book really kept you on the edge of your seat wondering what was going to happen next and what characters would survive. I cannot recommend this book enough as this felt like a classic hero's and villain's tale while staying true to the world and characters I have grown to love.

Language: 3 da**.

Indecency/Sex: Mention of men stripping down to their underwear.

Violence and Gore: Several men are injured and killed with arrows, axes, spears, and swords, mention of men eating their horses, pig and cow bladders are used as explosives, and blood is repeatedly present throughout the book.

Frightening Scenes: None present.

Substance Abuse: A couple of men drink alcohol.

Spiritual Content: Mention of a cult and mention of a character being a demon though not true.

Genres: Fantasy, fiction, young adult, medieval.