Lynn
Written on Sep 11, 2019
AD 71 and the northern tribes must work together to stop the Romans from entering their territory. When Lorcan of the Brigante people meets Nara of the Selgovae, there's a reason for both to be suspicious of each other. Yet in time, they find a common attraction. however, fate has other ideas for these warriors who face making personal sacrifices for the clans they united and represent.
As meetings go, I laughed at Ms Jardine's original and fun way the protagonists find each other. With Lorcan spotting Nara hiding in a tree, trying to escape an attack from a wild boar, I enjoyed their electrically charged but tense introduction at a time when anyone could be suspected as a potential enemy. With vivid descriptions of the settings, I visualised the scenery and the backdrop of not only this scene but the whole narrative.
Although I do read historical novels, this is the first I have read during this time period. What shines brightly within the narrative are the details the author has meticulously researched to create not only an intriguing romance between two people from different clans but an insightful portrayal of the lives and struggles of these people during the early Roman occupation of England. I feel truly educated having not only learning about the late iron age era but the culture of the people of this time. It's riveting, making compelling reading along with the fascinating relationship rituals woven in between.
With a satisfying conclusion and the foundations laid for book two, I can't wait to dive in and continue with this captivating tale of life during the Roman occupation.
***Review copy received courtesy of Ocelot Press via Rachel's Random Resources***