THE BARK OF THE BOG OWL: Book One of the Wilderking Trilogy

Rogers takes biblical fiction to a new level in an imaginative fantasy rendition of the story of King David that both enchants and entertains. Young Aidan Errolson of Longleaf Manor longs to be a warrior and adventurer in the service of King Darrow of Corenwald, but instead, the 12-year-old boy spends his days tending sheep on his father's vast estate. Adventure beckons when he befriends one of the "feechiefolk," Dobro Turtlebane of the Tam, a member of a wild nomadic tribe that travels the rivers and swamps. Bayard the Truthspeaker, Corenwald's greatest prophet, is confident that Aidan is the Wilderking, "From the land's wildest places a wild man will come/To give the land back to her people." But many of the once valiant men of Corenwald have become complacent and tame, and when the Pyrthen Empire challenges Corenwald to send a champion to duel with their giant, only Aidan has enough trust in God to accept. With his help, Corenwald might regain its wild adventurous spirit so good can triumph. Readers familiar with the biblical narrative will know where the plot is headed, but the unusual settings and characters keep the surprises coming, while Rogers's lovely descriptions and distinctive voice keep the pages turning. Faith fiction readers of all ages should enjoy this first installment in the trilogy. (Sept.)