Deathlands #10 Northstar Rising is a pivotal entry in the overall Deathlands saga. It introduces the character of Dr. Mildred Wyeth, a character longtime readers recognize as a permanent addition to the companions (not a spoiler to followers of the series, minor spoiler to new readers).

Interesting setting of a Norse themed "ville". Full of characters with Norse-themed names like Erik Stonebiter, Sigurd Harefoot and the like. The ville lives according to old Viking values and mores. The inhabitants view albino Jak as a god incarnate and Mildred (who is black) as an evil witch. The story lies in how to extricate the whole group out of the ville intact. 

This book sets the core of the companions for the rest of the series run. And a good run it was; 125 books. As always, Deathlands are not literary giants full of redeeming social value or social commentary. They are over the top graphic depictions of a post- apocalyptic wasteland (one of my favorite genres). 

Graphic? Yes! Still good escapism. Enjoy!

Mike