The Book of Priestcraft

by Dale Donovan, Ed Stark, Duane Maxwell

Priests are more than mere physicians tending the wounded and healing the sick - they are defenders of the realm, champions of their god, and the politicians of Cerilia. Whether they are ministering aid, performing diplomacy, inspiring the people, or dispersing undead legions of evil, priests command great power and authority. For the power of the Blood comes from the gods, and only their priests can make a king! The Book of Priestcraft describes the devoted followers of the gods of Cerilia, their philosophies, tactics, and daily duties. It also details new battle and realm spells for priests, and examines the legend of Cerilian religious relics. This book further explores the investiture ceremony - the mysterious transfer of blood power from ruler to heir. And it contains advice to priest regents on diplomacy, ruling domains, waging wars, and beginning crusades. It's everything a priest must know to build an empire in Cerilia - or even to survive. Come, don the robes of the true kingmakers of Cerilia!

Paperback

First published June 23, 1998

Reviews

[Garrett Henke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent supplement for Birthright. To be honest, it’s a necessity as it explains the investiture process along with going into all the needed details of religion in Cerilia.

This book also does something amazing for AD&D 2e (and other editions) in that it goes through actual doctrinal differences within the churches dedicated to the same gods. It shows how different temples can be based around different teachings and yet still follow the same deity. Birthright has always been a fairly grounded setting (if not realistic) but this simple aspect really adds gravitas to the world.

Book really only loses a star because the artwork is sparse and the layout is rather poor. Priestcraft came out at the end of Birthright’s run so the money spent on the products definitely took a hit here.