We all know the familiar legend of Robin Hood who hangs out in Sherwood forest and steals from the rich to give to the poor. But what if the legends of Robin Hood were really based on a Welsh king who was deposed from his throne by the Norman conquest in the late 1000's? That's the premise behind Hood, which is outstanding not just because of it's unusual look at the possible historical underpinnings of the legend, but also because of the author's knowledge and skill at making that historical period come to life.
Our hero doesn't start out as such--Bran ap Brychan is a royal heir who hates his father and isn't interested in the responsiblities of being king. Even the cruel death of his father at the hand of the Normans doesn't convince him that he should stay and fight for his people. Bran's gradual--almost too gradual at times-- transformation into what we know as Robin Hood is a pleasure to read. It's one of those stories +++where suddenly you recognize a familiar character and think, "Ah, this must be Friar Tuck". Yes, most all of the familiar Robin Hood characters are here, including Maid Marian, but in this different setting and time period they might not be quite the people we are used to. Lawhead creates vivid characters, who aren't always purely "good" or "evil". For example through the musings of the "villians" we see how the doctrine of divine right is used to justify their brutal conquests--but not always without some misgivings. For me this novel was the almost perfect blend of heart-racing suspense, intriguing characters, and thought provoking prose. It also ends abrubtly with a doozy of cliffhanger, so of course I now have to wait for the second book of the trilogy to come out. It can't get here soon enough.
Be sure to check out the author's website, which includes a video trailer for the book.  The trailer features modern Celtic music composed by Jeff Johnson & Brian Dunning and available on a CD of songs inspired by Hood and entitled, King Raven: Volume 1.  Hmmm, I think I know what I want for Christmas now!