It's all battle, battle, battle in Duel at Araluen, as Cassandra and Horace fight their separate skirmishes in different parts of the country.

The preceding book in this series introduced us to a conflict, which comes to a head in Duel at Araluen.

Horace, his cavalrymen, and a team of archers are held up at a fort, surrounded on all sides by Sonderlanders and rebel Araluens.

At Castle Araluen, Cassandra and a few soldiers battle in close quarters, backs figuratively against the wall, trying to stave off Dimon's turncoat, opportunistic assault.

Princess Maddie more than proves her worth as a Ranger Apprentice, demonstrating strategic decision-making, quiet confidence, leadership, and of course, her unerring accuracy with the bow and sling.

Duel at Araluen is a fast-paced, fun read that you can finish in a couple of sittings (or one sitting if you have spare time).

The author spends an awful amount of time describing the pitched battle scenes. Of course, they aren't as violent as you'd expect of a GrimDark or Epic tale, given that they're written for a quite young audience. There's a tad bit of "auld," classic gallantry and chivalry here that hardcore fantasy readers might find a little put-off-ish, but if you've come this far into the Ranger's Apprentice Universe, you should be used to this by now. Besides, the author more than makes up for grimness with the sheer detailing of battle proceedings. I did enjoy that bit very much.

I'll jump onto the next book in the series as soon as I can; very relaxing read this was.