Alcuin:
I plan to use the Promised land scenario in the book as a starter, so if you haven't read it, don't (and if you have, let me know, so I can change it significantly.
I have not read it, and I will specifically not read it. :)
I've got the core rules and the Advanced Players Guide. I think the latter helps a lot because it provides more options without piling up as much - broader more than stronger. I could be wrong, though, as I haven't had a chance to play. Excited now!