The Ranger's Apprentice by John Flanagan is a series based in a realistic earth-like world in a medieval-type time. In the first book there are a group of orphans who are raised in the local baron's keep. When they come of age they choose an apprenticeship.
When the choosing ceremony is over, Will, an awkward young man, is left without any mentor. In the end, not surprisingly, he is chosen to be an apprentice to the ranger Halt. Being a ranger is a special post in the kingdom. They are amazing archers, and strategists who are called on to solve just about any problem. In addition to being very capable, these men are feared because there are so many secrets about what it means to be a ranger.
Flanagan takes us into the world of being a ranger through the eyes of Will. Through his training Will faces challenges, overcomes obstacles, and becomes one of the best rangers in the entire kingdom.
From the first chapter of the first book I was drawn in and couldn't put them down. Flanagan does a masterful job at creating so many different adventures that you never feel bored. Each book has a new problem and needs a new creative way of solving it.
Of all the things that I love about this series, I think I keep coming back because of the characters. They have come to life and have such fun and fascinating personalities. You'll even come to love the horses. I highly recommend this book series to anyone who likes fantasy adventures.