As book one of The First Argentines series, Knight’s Ransom is the perfect introduction. Jeff Wheeler is the kind of author who clearly immerses himself in his writing and as a result, the readers are transported to the worlds he creates. His attention to detail is a big reason for this, but he also has an incredible imagination. The knights, tournaments, duplicity, and a touch of magic make for an engrossing read.

At times it might become a bit overwhelming, trying to keep track of all the characters and locations, but with a few notes here and there and the provided map, you’ll keep it straight and in turn love how the various families’ lives intertwine. The characters are varied and well developed, especially the main character, Ransom. He is one readers will look forward to following throughout the series. Several situations, especially toward the end will have the pages flying as the suspense is almost too much to handle. We’re left with a highly suspenseful but satisfying ending. Those who enjoy medieval stories will love Knight’s Ransom and will be happy to know book two has an expected publication date of May 2021.
This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by 47North

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language:  None

Violence/Gore:  Many (51) brief incidents including characters wanting to hurt another; dreams about death; character must kill a child; verbal threats; character suggesting another should commit suicide; character wanting to hurt or kill another; character wishing another had never been born; several second-hand reports of war and resulting death or injuries; reference to character fighting another; second-hand reports of characters getting hurt during training; attempted abduction; references to death not related to war; character slapping another; characters getting hurt during training, tournaments or playing war games; characters fighting nearly resulting in death; a few incidents of death from fighting or getting poisoned.

Sex/Nudity:  Several (16) brief incidents including character joking about wanting to be a wife; reference to people getting married; characters walking arm in arm; flirting; characters talking about liking someone; reference to character wanting to buy a gift for a significant other; kissing; character wants another to like her; implied (possible) child from unmarried couple; character trying to seduce another; reference to character romantically involved with someone who is married; joke about character seeing a girl bathing (doesn’t occur).

Mature Subject Matter:

War; death; murder; infidelity.

Alcohol / Drug Use:

A few incidents of teens and adults drinking; several references to wine.