Thirteen-year-old Lucas Cordova is apprenticed to his older brother Bernal as a tailor on Hernando de Soto’s voyage across the Atlantic in search for gold in the New World. The Cordovas and other artisans accompany De Soto’s soldiers and keep their gear in repair on their trek through Florida’s steamy woods and swamps. Though Bernal is content being a tailor, Lucas learns what he can of weapons and fighting from the soldiers. The desire for gold is strong in the company, and one night, Bernal digging for treasure under a temple floor, is captured by Indians. Lucas begins to learn the Indian language and asks questions about his brother at every town. He also gets his wish to fight, as the expedition repeatedly encounters hostile natives who are resentful of De Soto’s arrogant conduct. Lucas’ idolization of De Soto wanes as he sees him order injustices, but Lucas cannot help admiring his leader’s ability to rekindle fire and loyalty in men amidst hunger, illness, and physical exhaustion. As De Soto’s band struggles towards their quest’s end, Lucas must find his lost brother before the voyagers return to Spain!

From the Bethlehem Books reprint