When I am in combat why does the enemy always get the first shot? Does that not put the player in a serious disadvantage even if I were the one to start the fight?!

Every unit has a speed (initiative) rating - the higher, the better - which you should take into consideration when you go into battle. Generally, units with more powerful or area-effect attacks tend to be slower than, say, the relatively weak archers.

Oh ok, that makes sense. I am a bit of a doppy git with this type of game so I thought it'd make more sense asking. :)