The land called Holm did not produce any wizards. In fact, the people of Holm did not believe in wizards. The Holmish people were a dark-skinned god-fearing people with smooth dark hair and brown eyes. Their land was mountainous, with many lakes and with great rivers and small streams running into a sea speckled with green islands. In places, the mountains plunged directly into the sea, and rivers flowing from such mountains were more waterfall than river. In other places, broad rivers flowed at a stately pace between the ageless wooded hills, and large eyed deer came to dip their dainty hooves into the water and drink.

Of necessity, the people of Holm were well acquainted with the water. Sleek wooden boats with slender masts and brown sails danced lightly upon the waters, and the children of Holm

[This message has been edited by Kathleen Dalton Woodbury (edited April 19, 2010).]
 

Up front, to engage me in a story, I want a character I can identify with and/or a hint at an interesting conflict. A little setting is also necessary in fantasy, but not this much.