Ranger's Apprentice

Right now I'm reading the Ranger's Apprentice book #1 Ruins of Gorlan. It is set in an mythical land called Araluen ruled by King Duncan. It tells the story of 15 year old Will. He lives in a medieval-style castle, Redmont. He and his classmates all apply to a trade. It is his deep desire to become a warrior-knight, despite his small stature. However he is chosen by the mysterious Ranger Holt. As a ranger he is required to become an expert archer and knife thrower. He also learns of silent and unseen movement, tracking and concealment. Slowly, Will and Holt become friends and embark on the journey of a life time against many evils.

Characters
Will gets apprenticed by Halt to become a Ranger at the age of 15. He is an orphan ward of the castle lord, and he doesn't remember his parents. He is small, fast and agile. He is the main character in the book. He is smart and very loyal to his friends.

Halt is a member of the Ranger Corps; he is a small man, with black-and-gray hair and a beard. He is grim and famous throughout the kingdom. People are often surprised and disappointed when they find out that he isn' the 7 foot tall hero they always thought of. Halt is a superb archer, and this is demonstrated thoroughly with his use of a massive longbow.

Aliss is a friend of Horace and Will, and is apprenticed to the Diplomatic Service. She is Will's oldest friends and she is intelligent and tall.

Horace is another ward in Castle Redmont along with Will. He eventually becomes a Battle School Apprentice (which is what Will had wanted to be). Horace is a natural warrior, and ever though he used to be Will's rival, but they soon become friends.

Morgarath is the former Baron of Gorlan, who is rebelling against King Duncan. He is an expert swordsman and his allies are monsters. Morgarath currently rules the Mountains of Rain and Night. He is tall, pale, and insane. (protagonist)