Gruff is a goatherder's son. Bright and ambitious, he has been awarded a scholarship to the school where noble's sons are educated. It's a great opportunity but he has no friends there as many of the scholarship boys quickly leave and the wealthy students ignore those who are not. But spending his days herding goats, Gruff is used to loneliness.
His life changes forever when the big race comes up. It is understood that the king's son will win the competition but Gruff is not willing to roll over and let the prince win. He competes at his best and wins the competition. This doesn't go over well with the king and soon Gruff is given an assignment.
He is tasked with making his way to Brightstone and bringing back the Son Of God who rules there. It is an impossible task and it's clear that he is given the task to get him out of the way. Gruff is given a partner, a knight whose womanizing has touched a lot of nerves and who also is regarded as best out of the way. Morrigan is a lighthearted man, a true soldier but one who always sees the best in every situation. He is a contrast to Gruff who is dour and bitter, determined to make his way and living by a code he refuses to deviate from. Can they finish their assignment or will it's difficulty lead them to death?
This is the first in what is to be a full round of novels based on the zodiac. It is also based in Celtic mythology. The story seems deceptively simple at first but as the reader advances it becomes more impressive and exciting. Gruff is an interesting character who grows during his trials and learns to make room for others in his rigid world. This book is recommended for readers of fantasy.
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