Elske was born into the cruel and barbaric Volkaric people. Raised by her wise and fearless grandmother, Elske seems destined to a fate of death maiden to the sadistic Volkking. When the time comes however, Elske is saved when her noble grandmother sacrifices her own life instead, telling Elske to run far away, and never return. So Elske's journey begins. Arriving in the city of Trastad in the North , Elske is given work as lady's maid to the aristocracy. Here she meets the headstrong Princess Beriel, who sees a kindred spirit in the wilful, passionate Elske. As Beriel seeks to reclaim the throne that is rightfully hers, she wants none other than Elske by her side in battle. In a final and compelling battle scene, Elske at last does assume the mantel of death maiden - but this time, the victory will be hers . . .

 

There are 192 pages in this book. This book was published 2001 by Hachette Children's Group .

Cynthia Voigt, winner of the Newbery Medal, was born in Boston in 1942. For a number of years she taught English and Classics. She is married with one daughter and one son.