Trista, a runaway slave, and, Morcant, a deserting Roman soldier, are on the run in the wilds of Britain. Each of them has a powerful gift and need each other to survive the harsh winter, the warring tribes and the Roman attackers. Browne’s story is adventure, fantasy and history well-mixed.
It is refreshing to read a story of early Britain which includes druids but not King Arthur. Browne’s language and story will challenge and reward the young adult reader. While I would not hesitate to put this book into a high school library, I would think twice for a small elementary school. The language and complexity would require a skilled reader which although present in my school population are of more limited numbers. Themes include: survival, conflict, trust, loyalty and courage. Curriculum connections: fantasy, adventure
Rating: Very Good
