This book covers the same ground Jack Whyte's Eagle's Brood did, yet it does not repeat anything unnessecarily. This book can stand alone, but I recommend that it be read directly after the Eagle's Brood to be fully understood. The book starts off good and grabs your attention, lags a bit in the middle because of sheer size, but has an amazing last third which literally left me in tears. A must read for lovers of the Dream of Eagles series.

Jack Whyte really brings out Uther's character and gives excellent reasons for his behaviors. I honestly can say I hated the ending... not because it was poorly written, but because it was just so sad... those who have read it know what I mean, those who haven't, read it! You will absolutely not regret it! Uther is almost an anti-hero. He is a warlord who tries to conquer Cornwall, and in doing so, causes the deaths of many of his best men, and he has a darkness in him that is astounding. Yet, he is the perfect hero. How deliciously ironic.

A compelling piece of literature fit for greatness. Whyte combines unbelievably realistic characters to a beautifully sketched setting. The factual segments add an enriching depth to Whyte's colorful fictional characters and flowery but straight-forward descriptions. I highly recommend this novel to anyone in search of a great read (including 13year-olds like me).

As always, Jack Whyte transports the reader to a time and place both familiar and unfamiliar. Yes, we are familiar with aspects of Roman history, the Celts and Arthurian legend, but to have such a rich tapestry woven for us - with threads of fact, is indeed, a gift. Don't be mistaken by the name of this book or his earlier works and think that you'll be picking up yet another pathetic, romantic story about King Arthur and the like. These books provide a solid and fascinating premise based in historic fact that provides solid foundation blocks for Camelot. Mr Whyte has a strong and clear voice. His books never fail to educate and transport the reader to another world. Yes, I recommend it - I couldn't put it down! And if you have a chance to meet him at a book reading, DO IT!! I did and it was a delight. He's intelligent, witty, gracious and articulate - just as I had imagined.