My first Bernard Cornwell ever and of course I didn't want to start with an epic series, but I think I may have sabotaged myself anyway - this was a really enjoyable read and if his others aren't like this I'm going to be so disappointed. Cracking pace, really well controlled narrative, interesting and likeable characters, and one of the best uses of Checkov's Gun I have yet read. Also, occasionally amusing, and deeply engaging. I have read a fair few novels set in this period but none of them have had the kind of detail about the society and culture this had. I am extremely sad this *isn't* a series - I would read them all!