In Riftgard, far from Redwall Abbey, a brave squirrelmaid called Triss is being held captive by the ferret king Agarnu and his cruel daughter Kurda. Guilty of nothing more than wanting their freedom from slavery, Triss, Shogg the otter and Welfo the hedgehog engineer a daring escape and steal the King's purple-sailed ship. Kurda is in pursuit and on their tails immediately, the penalty for capture being death.

In the rugged mountain fortress of Salamandastron, two young badgers called Bescarum and Sagaxus, their backpacks stuffed full of provisions, steal away from their home under the cover of dark. Both crave excitement and are determined to seek fame and fortune in a faraway land. They set sail for Redwall with adventure on their minds.

At Redwall Abbey itself, in the shadow of Mossflower wood, Ruggum the molebabe and Bikkle the little squirrel, have adventure on their minds too. In order to avoid their nightly bath, they sneak outside and head off into the trees. It's only when night falls, and their stomachs grumble, that the plan falls apart. After a restless night under the stars, Ruggum and Bikkle inadvertantly discover the lost entrance to Brockhall, legendary home of the Badger Lords. It is a chance discovery that has immense implications for the whole land.

Jacques' exciting story comes together to plunder Redwall's past and looks to its future, too, with the discovery of a new fearless heroine. It's a great mix that should be savoured. Suitable for ages nine and over.--John McLay