"Brendan “the Navigator” is one of Ireland’s many early saints who straddled the pagan-Christian divide, continuing what would today be called an “environmental consciousness” as the Irish Celts moved their culture into Christianity. He gained his moniker from a long sea journey with other monks that may have brought them to America. Llywelyn brings to life the complex tribal Celtic society in which Brendan lived and creates some memorable characters—especially the saint’s foster-mother, Ita—from what little is known of the real Brendan’s life. Readable and very well researched, the novel will please fans of Ireland’s best-known historical novelist and may introduce her to readers who enjoy learning about early Christianity through fiction." --Patricia Monaghan