I had previously read 4 other book from the Avalon series, which were wonderful, and thought it was time I read the first book in the series. It did not disappoint! MZB brings her characters to life. You feel that you know them. In this book, it explains how Avalon was founded. Their interaction with the Romans was not always peaceful, as is usual when foreign people come to claim a country for themselves. However, the 2 main characters cross barriers that stand the test of time. It was a wonderful story and I would recommend it.