Wonderful Indie Historical Fantasy
By Melanie Karsak
UPDATE: June 27: Reread was even better than the first time. Everything below still holds true, but the hooks Karsak left at the beginning were even more meaningful on the second read. ALSO of note…I don’t normally re-read books, so that should tell you something about this series. I’m on to QUEEN OF STONE now… YAYAY!
I adored this story and can’t wait for book 2 (Queen of Stone)! The plot and characters are tightly woven together. The romance is definitely there, but it’s more romantic fantasy than fantasy romance. It comes across as true to the lives and times of this setting.
The historical aspects and belief systems engrossed me thoroughly. Note: I’m a huge fan of Boudica anyway! The writing was good, but there were a couple of ticks in voice. The notable ones for me were: The word “waspishly” is repeated a lot and it’s a mouthful. And the phrase “once more” stuck out. But these are really minor hiccups. It’s suitable for teen audiences beyond middle-grade level, so if you have young fantasy readers, grab this!
My rating comes in at 95/100, owed to the plot, characters, and romance. The slight lowering is because of the hiccups I mentioned, and I would have loved it to be an adult fantasy rather than YA. Still warrants a 5* though.
Plot & Characters
I always like the advice about starting a novel on the day when a character’s life changes. I originally thought there was a bit too much in the way of “everyday life” at the beginning. It wasn’t until I reached much later in the book, I wasn’t certain how the opening of this story tied in with the change in Boudica’s life. So, if you’re reading, keep in mind that it does have much importance!
In fact, the plot is woven together very nicely. This is a historical fantasy in that Boudica is taken from the pages of history. However, it is a very original story in terms of the plot and one well-woven.
All characters had significant depth and clear arcs within the story. In truth, I can’t think of any who might have been superfluous or unchanging. Maybe Pyx, but we don’t know her enough yet. You don’t meet her until later in the book, but I suspect she’s going to cause quite a stir in book 2 and likely become my favorite.
Romance Elements
Swoon-worthiness
This book (although not a straight romance) has tons of times that’ll make you swoon, and not only with one character. I’m amazed at how much I felt with some of the romantic twists and turns.
Heat
This book is probably rated PG-13. There is a little in the way of steamy situations, but nothing graphic. I rated it at 20%. I totally would have let my teens read it without concern.
Fantasy Elements
Worldbuilding
The historical aspects of this book felt real. Karsak brought Boudica’s world to life nicely.
Magic & Magic Systems
There aren’t any “magic systems,” per se. The magic here is in the world itself, the veil between this world and the other world, the fey things of the greenwood. Very classic tropes for ancient Pictish / Celtic settings.
Synopsis
Fated to lead a rebellion against Rome.
Destined to become a legend.
From New York Times best seller Melanie Karsak, author of the Celtic Blood series, comes a gripping historical fantasy series of ancient Britain, Celtic gods, a fated romance, and the warrior queen who defied Rome.
Britain, A.D. 42 – Boudica, second daughter of a Celtic king, has little concern for tribal tensions and political intrigues. Called by the gods and the stirrings of her own wild heart, she listens instead to whispers of the oaks. But Boudica would be wiser to heed the warning cries of eagles.
Rumors abound that the Romans are amassing forces for another invasion. In an effort to consolidate power, Boudica’s father turns to Prasutagus, the formidable ruler of the Greater Iceni. To win Prasutagus’ aid, Boudica’s father must strike a bargain – a deal with implications beyond Boudica’s imagining.
My Ratings
About the Author
New York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
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