The first volume in David Drake’s *Lord of the Isles* series, this substantial fantasy adventure introduces a world where ancient powers and dangerous seas shape the lives of its characters. Drake’s narrative is built on a broad, epic sense of scale, combining exploration with conflict and the consequences of power in a setting that draws on classical and mythic traditions. Its appeal lies in the blend of mythic scope and character-driven peril, establishing the foundation for the series’ larger political and magical conflicts. The catalog record represents the work through English-language editions from 1999, including a 736-page paperback edition and a library binding.