Slaves of Socorro

★ 9.66 / 3

A new story arc brings the return of an old enemy... and the alliance between Heron and Ranger!

Hal and his fellow Herons have returned home to Skandia after defeating the pirate captain Zavac and reclaiming the stolen artifact, the Andomal. With their honor restored, the Herons turn to a new mission: tracking down an old rival turned bitter enemy. Tursgud — leader of the Shark Brotherband and Hal’s constant opponent — has turned from a bullying youth into a pirate and slave trader. After Tursgud captures twelve Araluen villagers to sell as slaves, the Heron crew sails into action... with the help of one of Araluen’s finest Rangers.

In this fourth book in the Brotherband Chronicles, a new battle unfolds as old rivalries are renewed, peace treaties are put to the test, and the action builds to a pulse-pounding finale.

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Updated 03/31/2025

Category: Fantasy, Young Adult

Release date: June 30, 2014

John Flanagan

John Flanagan's name has become synonymous with immersive storytelling that captures the hearts of readers young and old alike. With a keen eye for detail and a natural knack for crafting gripping tales, Flanagan has carved out a unique space in the world of fantasy literature. His Ranger's Apprentice series, set in the fictional kingdom of Araluen, is more than just an adventure. It's a journey through friendship, courage, and the unspoken bonds between mentor and protege, all told with an authenticity that resonates far beyond its medieval setting.

Brotherband Chronicles

In a world where loyalty, courage, and skill are tested on the high seas, The Brotherband Chronicles sails into uncharted waters, offering readers a thrilling adventure of camaraderie and self-discovery. Far from the comforts of royal courts and structured lands, this series takes place on the rough, rugged waters of Skandia, where a group of young warriors must prove their worth as they embark on a journey that will challenge their very identity.

At the heart of the story are the brotherbands, tight-knit groups of warriors bound not just by skill, but by an unbreakable bond of friendship. These young Skandians, led by the determined Hal, must face a series of trials that demand more than just physical strength. Each test—whether it’s battling fierce enemies, navigating treacherous waters, or outsmarting rivals—pushes them to grow both as warriors and as individuals. Hal’s journey is one of leadership, but it's also a tale of growth, as he learns what it truly means to lead a team and to trust those who have his back.

The series doesn’t just focus on the typical battles of the battlefield, but rather the quieter, more profound moments that define a warrior’s path. Themes of friendship, honor, and the importance of intelligence over brute strength run throughout the story. The bond between the members of the brotherband is what sets this series apart—it’s a deeply personal look at the dynamics of teamwork, and how people from different walks of life can come together to achieve something greater than the sum of their parts.

Skandia itself, with its icy winds, endless shores, and rough-hewn villages, feels like a character in its own right. Flanagan’s world-building immerses readers in a place that is as wild and unpredictable as the sea it’s set on, with ancient traditions and looming threats shaping every decision the characters make. The setting, rich with history and danger, provides the perfect backdrop for the brotherband’s journey, where every voyage could be their last, and every challenge is a chance to prove they are worthy of the title they bear.

As the series progresses, the stakes rise higher, and the brotherband must face not only external enemies but their own internal struggles. It’s a world where victory often comes at a price, and true strength lies in how one faces the challenges thrown their way. The Brotherband Chronicles is a story of survival, growth, and the bond that holds a group of misfits together, making it a refreshing and captivating read for anyone who loves stories of adventure and friendship, set against the backdrop of a harsh and unforgiving world.

Brotherband Chronicles consists of nine books and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

Main series Ranger's Apprentice