Another unmissable episode in the story of Torak and his "pack"! I agree with the other reviewer that the stories are getting darker with each book, as Torak goes through his adolescent rites of passage, and much sadder too, in line with the overall series name - "Chronicles of Ancient Darkness". I can imagine my youngest son, who is 9 and yet to read "Oathbreaker"(ha! ha! I got first dibs!!), becoming quite upset, as the plot for this story not only introduces us to new characters, but says goodbye to someone very important to Torak. Michelle Paver also reveals more of Torak's history and that of his parents, with some heartbreaking revelations. It is exciting and full of tension as Torak faces yet another threat to his and his friends security, and reluctantly acknowledges his destiny. He is also growing up, and has to learn to control all the raging emotions within him. Renn too is maturing and Torak feels a frisson of attraction between them as their bonds of friendship deepen. I can't wait for the final installment, although I will freely admit that I will be very sad to say goodbye to these characters. Great stuff!