While Balestri takes time to make her characters interesting, she doesn’t lose track of where the plot needs to go. As readers, we know this series will lead to Robin becoming the famous rebel who fights Normans abusing their power. Balestri provides hints of what Robin is growing into while making this novel more than just “the story before the famous adventures happen.”

In short, Balestri presents a Robin Hood novel that succeeds as historical fiction, coming-of-age story, and adventure tale. A great start to what looks to be a wonderful Robin Hood series.