Morgan Llywelyn has done a fantastic job in this novel. She does outstanding research and builds a framework that will have you walk away from this book having a very good understanding of the history of Ireland in terms of its small kingdom's constantly warring with each other to where outside invaders can waltz in and mop up. The greatest king who accomplished what no other could was Brian Boru, Ard Ri (High King) and unfortunately his descendents proved incapabale of maintaining what was created. If history had been different then, perhaps todays situation and recent past of continued fighting and occupation would have been different.

If that was all there was to offer in this situation, however, then Llywelyn's book would not stand out from much of the common fare in historical fiction. Far too often, characters are develped but left somewhat lacking and no real story develops and stands out.

This is not the case here. The characters are rich and personal and capture the spirit of the ages in a way that few historical fictional works ever do.

Llywelywn explores the conflict between druidic and Christian culture and religion and personifies it within her characters to where the discerning reader will pick up a lot that is caught more than told.

Be aware that some of the scenes are fairly adult in nature. It is not gratuitous. It does add to the story line, but some readers with sensitivities in this area will want to know that in advance.

Overall an excellent read with much to recommend it!

Being both an Irishman and a descendent of Brian Boru, I have done quite a bit of research into both the myths&legends and the historical records of the events and characters portrayed in this book and I have to say that Morgan Llywelyn writes about ancient Ireland as if she just stopped there for tea. I was thoroughly moved by her prose. From the moment I first opened the cover I was literally unable to put the book down, which was unfortunate because I ended up missing all of my classes for the rest of the day. I was just lucky it was Friday so I had the rest of the weekend to finish the book and then read it again. I whole heartedly recommend this book to everyone I know and I believe it should be required reading in any finishing school in Ireland. If you are into historical fiction or have eyes and are literate I demand that you purchase this book and tell all your friends about it.

This is a wonderful book of a great man. Ms. Llywellyn's love of her heritage and its history just screams out from every page. Brian of Boru was a great and wonderful ruler, and this author has made his life come alive. We see Brian as he lived every day of his life - always in search of the greater good which included a united and peaceful Ireland. We see him as a warriar, a lover, a father, a Christian, and we see the lives that he touched. We also get an intimate portrait of his women who were each as remarkable as him in their own way.The battle scenes in this book are excellent and beautifully written. As I read I felt that I could hear the crash of the swords and the grunts and groans of the dying men. This is an awesome historical novel, and I recommend it whole-heartedly.