Helpful Score: 1
A fun fantasy with plenty of historical reference
It is the year 1086 in a little village in England (now known as Shafesbury) where the story of Aldyth LIghtfoot and Gandulf fitzGerald begins. This romantic adventure fantasy blends several historical figures with those of the author's imagination into a wonderful story that if a delight to read. However, the authors strive to remain true to what is historically known about those who actually trod the vales and fields of England at that time. The Normans had overrun Saxon strongholds and ruled the country with an iron fist, enslaving the conquered. People like Bedwyn, Aldyth, Sirona (keeper of the crystal spring), and others work the Saxon resistance underground known as the Starlight Path. Enter colorful characters such as the kindly old priest, Father Edmund, who talks to his mule, Gregory, like a friend; and Aelfric, a fiercely independent wild boy who lives by his wits and knows the people's deepest secrets. This is a most enjoyable read.
