Here Be Dragons by Sharon Kay Penman

Description

Here Be Dragons is the first book in Sharon Kay Penman’s Welsh Princes trilogy, a sweeping historical fiction novel that tells the story of Owain ap Gruffydd, the last native Prince of Wales. The novel opens in 1194, with Owain in exile in Ireland following the Norman conquest of Wales. When his brother is killed by the English, Owain returns to Wales to claim his birthright. He faces many challenges, including the formidable English king, John Lackland, and the Welsh who are divided in their loyalty. But Owain is a determined and resourceful leader, and he slowly begins to unite the Welsh people behind him.

The novel is a richly detailed and suspenseful portrait of medieval Wales. Penman brings the period to life with her vivid descriptions of the Welsh landscape, the customs and traditions of the Welsh people, and the brutal realities of medieval warfare. She also creates complex and believable characters, from the brave and idealistic Owain to the ruthless John Lackland.