The Islands of the Blessed is the conclusion of the series that began with The Sea of Trolls.  Jack and Thorgil continue their adventures, when the safety of home is threatened by the arrival of a monster.  Accompanying the wise Bard, apprentice Jack and shield maiden Thorgil travel in search of mermaids after calling up a sea hag with a magical bell.  Thorgil is reunited with her Viking kin, while Jack loses contact with his family.  They travel to towns near and far, the land of the fin folk, an island ruled each night by the destructive rage of murdered men, and finally, the Islands of the Blessed.

Fascinating references to medieval Britain abound, and readers will laugh at the antics of the uncouth Vikings.  Readers who love deep fantasy laced with Nordic and Celtic mythology will dive into this trilogy, but the later titles do not stand alone.