This is the second novel in a projected five part series called the Outlaw Chronicles: about the legendary Robin Hood and his band of outlaws. The story is told from the perspective of Alan Dale, a troubadour and warrior, a member of the band, who is now nearing the end of his life.

In this novel, Robin and his band, (including Alan) are preparing to join King Richard I as part of the Third Crusade which will attempt to retake the Holy Land from Saladin. As the story opens, Alan and Robin travel to York on private business and are present during the infamous Jewish massacre in March 1190. During their travels, which include the sacking of Messina, fighting on Cyprus and then the siege of Acre, Robin becomes the target of an assassination attempt, and Alan tries to track down who is responsible. Robin has other concerns as well: his wife has had a baby, and Alan himself falls in love.

Through the eyes of the young Alan Dale, we see Richard the Lionheart's participation in the Third Crusade - up to the battle of Arsuf in 1191. It's an interesting interpretation of the Robin Hood legend, and if Angus Donald's Robin is not quite the flawless hero I'd imagined throughout childhood, his participation in the Third Crusade makes an interesting read. As Angus Donald writes in his historical note: `- but it is the author's prerogative to place his fictional heroes at the centre of any historical catastrophe and have them emerge more or less unscathed.'

Angus Donald's Robin Hood is quite ruthless, and not always likeable. Alan Dale makes an interesting observer, with both lives woven around the history of the times. This is an action-filled work of fiction, set in turbulent times. I picked up this novel because of it is about the Third Crusade: I wasn't initially aware that it is part of a series. I'll be reading `Outlaw' the first book in the series shortly, and then the third book `King's Man': I want to read more about Angus Donald's portrayal of Robin Hood and Alan Dale.

Jennifer Cameron-Smith