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Iceni #1
Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice
The Year of Sacrifice is the first thrilling instalment in this historical trilogy.60 AD. The death of Prasutagus, the Iceni king, leaves his kingdom divided between Rome and his daughters. The Roman Procurator Catus Decianus seizes the entire territory and brutalizes Boudica and her family.
Driven by vengeance, Boudica rallies the Iceni tribe and allies including the Trinovantes, Coritani, and Catuvellauni. As Roman forces are preoccupied in the north, Boudica's rebel army advances on Camulodunum, the Roman provincial capital, where a vastly outnumbered Roman defence struggles to hold.
With the fate of Roman Britannia hanging in the balance, the epic tale of sacrifice, rebellion, and fierce determination unfolds.
Driven by vengeance, Boudica rallies the Iceni tribe and allies including the Trinovantes, Coritani, and Catuvellauni. As Roman forces are preoccupied in the north, Boudica's rebel army advances on Camulodunum, the Roman provincial capital, where a vastly outnumbered Roman defence struggles to hold.
With the fate of Roman Britannia hanging in the balance, the epic tale of sacrifice, rebellion, and fierce determination unfolds.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2025
1 person is currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Stephen D. Owen
1 book43 followersI have had a strong interest in Roman Britain since childhood. The revolt of Queen Boudica and the Iceni Revolt against Roman rule, in particular.
Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice is a debut novel, first of a trilogy telling the story of the dramatic rising of Boudica and the Iceni against Rome.
The world of the Iceni, the traditions of the ancestors and earth goddess, the druid priests, clashing with Roman imperial power.
An intriguing discovery helped inspire me to write this story. the discovery of a peat bog body at Lindow Moss, Wilmslow, Cheshire in August 1984.
Known as Lindow Man, the body was dated to the first century AD. Some experts speculated the body was a high born sacrifice, a druid priest who may have been close to the Iceni, and Boudica herself.
This is his story, and that of Boudica, the Iceni and the Romans who faced them.
I live In Bristol, I have also lived in Bath, and Frome in the heart of the West Country, England.
As well as my passion for history, Roman Britain and creative writing, I am an event and wedding photographer.
Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice is a debut novel, first of a trilogy telling the story of the dramatic rising of Boudica and the Iceni against Rome.
The world of the Iceni, the traditions of the ancestors and earth goddess, the druid priests, clashing with Roman imperial power.
An intriguing discovery helped inspire me to write this story. the discovery of a peat bog body at Lindow Moss, Wilmslow, Cheshire in August 1984.
Known as Lindow Man, the body was dated to the first century AD. Some experts speculated the body was a high born sacrifice, a druid priest who may have been close to the Iceni, and Boudica herself.
This is his story, and that of Boudica, the Iceni and the Romans who faced them.
I live In Bristol, I have also lived in Bath, and Frome in the heart of the West Country, England.
As well as my passion for history, Roman Britain and creative writing, I am an event and wedding photographer.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 15, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up
This is the first in a historical trilogy exploring the Iceni people taking on the Roman empire under the rule of Boudica. After her husband Prasutagus dies, Boudica and her daughters are brutalised by the Roman army. The Iceni palace is plundered and it's people are taken hostage. In what should be crushing blow, Boudica finds the inner strength and determination to seek vengeance for herself and her people.
The story starts really strong and it is clear the author has done a lot of research. I found these historical facts really interesting and didn't realise how little I knew about the Iceni. It is a fascinating period in British history.
I found it hard to keep up with all the names and places. A glossary would be really helpful moving forwards in the series to keep everything on track. A lot of focus is on the Iceni people gathering together and the political landscape of the Roman empire which at times slowed the pacing. However, I think this is needed to really set the scene and show the influence Boudica had on her people. I really wanted her to get the vengeance she sought.
It will be interesting to see what comes next within the next two books.
With thanks to the author and Book Network UK for providing a copy of the book to review. This is my honest opinion.
This is the first in a historical trilogy exploring the Iceni people taking on the Roman empire under the rule of Boudica. After her husband Prasutagus dies, Boudica and her daughters are brutalised by the Roman army. The Iceni palace is plundered and it's people are taken hostage. In what should be crushing blow, Boudica finds the inner strength and determination to seek vengeance for herself and her people.
The story starts really strong and it is clear the author has done a lot of research. I found these historical facts really interesting and didn't realise how little I knew about the Iceni. It is a fascinating period in British history.
I found it hard to keep up with all the names and places. A glossary would be really helpful moving forwards in the series to keep everything on track. A lot of focus is on the Iceni people gathering together and the political landscape of the Roman empire which at times slowed the pacing. However, I think this is needed to really set the scene and show the influence Boudica had on her people. I really wanted her to get the vengeance she sought.
It will be interesting to see what comes next within the next two books.
With thanks to the author and Book Network UK for providing a copy of the book to review. This is my honest opinion.
September 30, 2025
From the moment I opened Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice, I found myself transported to a world I thought I understood but quickly realized I barely knew. Stephen D. Owen has crafted something remarkable here, weaving together meticulous historical research with compelling storytelling that kept me turning pages well past my intended bedtime.
What struck me immediately was how alive Boudica felt on these pages. This isn't some distant historical figure reduced to dates and facts in a textbook. Owen presents her as a complete person, a woman grappling with unimaginable loss while somehow finding the strength to lead an entire rebellion. Reading about her transformation from grieving widow to fierce warrior queen, I found myself holding my breath during her quiet moments of doubt and cheering during her bold declarations. Her pain felt real, her determination infectious, and her complexity utterly captivating.
The opening chapters drew me in with their strong foundation of historical detail. I appreciated how Owen trusted his readers with authentic names, places, and customs rather than simplifying everything for easy consumption. Yes, there were moments when I had to slow down to keep track of the various tribes and Roman officials, but this attention to accuracy made the world feel genuine. I could almost smell the smoke from cooking fires, hear the clash of Celtic tongues mixing with Latin commands, and feel the tension crackling through every political negotiation.
What truly resonated with me was the theme of unity against oppression. Watching the Iceni, Trinovantes, Coritani, and Catuvellauni come together despite their differences reminded me that some struggles transcend individual grievances. Owen doesn't romanticize this alliance or pretend it was easy. Instead, he shows the fragile threads that bind people together when facing a common threat. These passages made me reflect on how desperation and hope can coexist, how people can find common ground even when everything else is falling apart.
The brutality depicted in these pages is not gratuitous but necessary. Owen doesn't shy away from showing what the Roman occupation truly meant for the Iceni people. Reading about the violence inflicted on Boudica and her daughters made my stomach turn, yet it also helped me understand the depth of her rage and the righteousness of her cause. This honesty about historical violence serves the story rather than sensationalizing it.
I found myself particularly moved by the political maneuvering that takes up significant portions of the narrative. While some might find this slows the pacing, I saw it differently. These sections revealed the careful strategy behind rebellion, the patience required to build alliances, and the weight of leadership. Boudica wasn't just swinging a sword; she was convincing disparate peoples to risk everything for a shared vision of freedom. Watching her navigate these complex relationships added layers to her character that simple battle scenes never could.
The supporting characters enriched the story immensely. Each person Boudica encountered, from loyal allies to bitter enemies, felt purposeful and fully realized. They weren't just props in her story but individuals with their own motivations, fears, and dreams. This populated world made the stakes feel higher because I cared about what happened to everyone, not just the queen leading the charge.
Owen's prose carries a weight appropriate to its subject matter. There's a solemnity to his writing that honors the real people who lived and died in this conflict. Yet he also captures moments of tenderness, humor, and humanity that prevent the narrative from becoming oppressively dark. This balance kept me emotionally engaged without overwhelming me.
As the rebel army advances on Camulodunum and the outnumbered Roman defenders prepare for the inevitable clash, I felt the tension mounting in my own chest. Owen builds this confrontation masterfully, making me understand what each side stands to lose. Even knowing the broad strokes of history, I found myself uncertain about outcomes, invested in individual fates, and eager to see how events would unfold.
The book ends at a point that left me immediately wanting the next installment. Owen has set up a trilogy that promises to follow this rebellion through to its conclusion, and I'm already anticipating the next chapter. He's established characters I care about, conflicts that matter, and a historical moment that deserves this kind of thoughtful, engaging treatment.
Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice succeeds because it makes ancient history feel immediate and relevant. Stephen D. Owen has given voice to a story that deserves to be heard, breathing life into Boudica and her people in ways that honor their memory while creating compelling fiction. This is historical fiction at its finest, educational without being dry, dramatic without sacrificing accuracy, and ultimately unforgettable. I closed the book feeling like I'd witnessed something important, something that connected past struggles to present questions about justice, resistance, and the cost of freedom.
What struck me immediately was how alive Boudica felt on these pages. This isn't some distant historical figure reduced to dates and facts in a textbook. Owen presents her as a complete person, a woman grappling with unimaginable loss while somehow finding the strength to lead an entire rebellion. Reading about her transformation from grieving widow to fierce warrior queen, I found myself holding my breath during her quiet moments of doubt and cheering during her bold declarations. Her pain felt real, her determination infectious, and her complexity utterly captivating.
The opening chapters drew me in with their strong foundation of historical detail. I appreciated how Owen trusted his readers with authentic names, places, and customs rather than simplifying everything for easy consumption. Yes, there were moments when I had to slow down to keep track of the various tribes and Roman officials, but this attention to accuracy made the world feel genuine. I could almost smell the smoke from cooking fires, hear the clash of Celtic tongues mixing with Latin commands, and feel the tension crackling through every political negotiation.
What truly resonated with me was the theme of unity against oppression. Watching the Iceni, Trinovantes, Coritani, and Catuvellauni come together despite their differences reminded me that some struggles transcend individual grievances. Owen doesn't romanticize this alliance or pretend it was easy. Instead, he shows the fragile threads that bind people together when facing a common threat. These passages made me reflect on how desperation and hope can coexist, how people can find common ground even when everything else is falling apart.
The brutality depicted in these pages is not gratuitous but necessary. Owen doesn't shy away from showing what the Roman occupation truly meant for the Iceni people. Reading about the violence inflicted on Boudica and her daughters made my stomach turn, yet it also helped me understand the depth of her rage and the righteousness of her cause. This honesty about historical violence serves the story rather than sensationalizing it.
I found myself particularly moved by the political maneuvering that takes up significant portions of the narrative. While some might find this slows the pacing, I saw it differently. These sections revealed the careful strategy behind rebellion, the patience required to build alliances, and the weight of leadership. Boudica wasn't just swinging a sword; she was convincing disparate peoples to risk everything for a shared vision of freedom. Watching her navigate these complex relationships added layers to her character that simple battle scenes never could.
The supporting characters enriched the story immensely. Each person Boudica encountered, from loyal allies to bitter enemies, felt purposeful and fully realized. They weren't just props in her story but individuals with their own motivations, fears, and dreams. This populated world made the stakes feel higher because I cared about what happened to everyone, not just the queen leading the charge.
Owen's prose carries a weight appropriate to its subject matter. There's a solemnity to his writing that honors the real people who lived and died in this conflict. Yet he also captures moments of tenderness, humor, and humanity that prevent the narrative from becoming oppressively dark. This balance kept me emotionally engaged without overwhelming me.
As the rebel army advances on Camulodunum and the outnumbered Roman defenders prepare for the inevitable clash, I felt the tension mounting in my own chest. Owen builds this confrontation masterfully, making me understand what each side stands to lose. Even knowing the broad strokes of history, I found myself uncertain about outcomes, invested in individual fates, and eager to see how events would unfold.
The book ends at a point that left me immediately wanting the next installment. Owen has set up a trilogy that promises to follow this rebellion through to its conclusion, and I'm already anticipating the next chapter. He's established characters I care about, conflicts that matter, and a historical moment that deserves this kind of thoughtful, engaging treatment.
Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice succeeds because it makes ancient history feel immediate and relevant. Stephen D. Owen has given voice to a story that deserves to be heard, breathing life into Boudica and her people in ways that honor their memory while creating compelling fiction. This is historical fiction at its finest, educational without being dry, dramatic without sacrificing accuracy, and ultimately unforgettable. I closed the book feeling like I'd witnessed something important, something that connected past struggles to present questions about justice, resistance, and the cost of freedom.
November 7, 2025
"Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice" is a breathtaking and emotionally charged historical novel that brings to life one of the most powerful uprisings in ancient Britain — the revolt led by Queen Boudica. As the first book in what promises to be an extraordinary trilogy, it sets the stage for an unforgettable saga of courage, vengeance, and destiny. Set in 60 AD, the story begins with the death of Prasutagus, the Iceni king. His passing leaves behind not only a kingdom on the edge of chaos but also a family vulnerable to Roman greed and brutality. The Roman Procurator Catus Decianus, driven by arrogance and imperial hunger, seizes the Iceni lands and commits unspeakable atrocities against Boudica and her daughters. What follows is not merely a revolt — it is the birth of a legend.
At the heart of the novel lies Boudica, a woman transformed by pain and betrayal into a symbol of defiance. Her portrayal is both raw and inspiring — she is not idealized, but humanized. The author captures her anguish, her strategic brilliance, and her indomitable spirit in exquisite detail. We witness her evolution from a grieving widow to a commanding leader capable of uniting rival tribes — the Iceni, Trinovantes, Coritani, and Catuvellauni — under a single banner of freedom.
The battle scenes are written with cinematic intensity. The siege of Camulodunum, the Roman provincial capital, is one of the most gripping sequences in the book. The author balances historical accuracy with emotional weight, ensuring that every clash of swords and every cry of the wounded resonates with meaning. The pacing builds steadily, leading readers into the heart of the rebellion where every decision comes at a cost — every victory demands sacrifice.
This book is a masterful blend of history and emotion, a powerful reimagining of Britain’s most legendary rebellion. It captures not only the ferocity of war but also the resilience of the human spirit when pushed to its limits. Readers who love historical fiction filled with strength, strategy, and soul — from fans of Bernard Cornwell to Hilary Mantel — will find themselves enthralled.
💫This is not just the story of a queen who fought Rome; it is the story of a people who refused to bow.
At the heart of the novel lies Boudica, a woman transformed by pain and betrayal into a symbol of defiance. Her portrayal is both raw and inspiring — she is not idealized, but humanized. The author captures her anguish, her strategic brilliance, and her indomitable spirit in exquisite detail. We witness her evolution from a grieving widow to a commanding leader capable of uniting rival tribes — the Iceni, Trinovantes, Coritani, and Catuvellauni — under a single banner of freedom.
The battle scenes are written with cinematic intensity. The siege of Camulodunum, the Roman provincial capital, is one of the most gripping sequences in the book. The author balances historical accuracy with emotional weight, ensuring that every clash of swords and every cry of the wounded resonates with meaning. The pacing builds steadily, leading readers into the heart of the rebellion where every decision comes at a cost — every victory demands sacrifice.
This book is a masterful blend of history and emotion, a powerful reimagining of Britain’s most legendary rebellion. It captures not only the ferocity of war but also the resilience of the human spirit when pushed to its limits. Readers who love historical fiction filled with strength, strategy, and soul — from fans of Bernard Cornwell to Hilary Mantel — will find themselves enthralled.
💫This is not just the story of a queen who fought Rome; it is the story of a people who refused to bow.
June 16, 2025
" [...] This is the story of Boudica, the priest and the Iceni, who fought for a way of life that was vanishing under Roman rule. [...]"
Wow! I am shocked that the novel "Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice" by Stephen D Owen drew me in so much. Usually I am not drawn in by books whose subject goes back to the times of Nero. However, the author presented it in such a way that I can not wait for the next part. There will be three parts in total, because it is a trilogy. Stephen D Owen perfectly combines fiction with real historical events. Through two heroines: the Celtic queen Boudica and the traitor Aderyn, he shows that strength has been dormant in women since those times. Boudica, or rather Queen Bere, had to lead her people after her husband's death. Together with the Iceni and other peoples, she will fight for dignity with the Romans - soldiers of the Roman Empire. She does not want to bow to Nero. Aderyn - unfortunately, is a traitor. Will she have to pay for it?
In this novel, you will find many plot twists, conspiracies, betrayals and unforeseen events. There are also many fights and dangerous situations. This is a very exciting historical book. If you like to go back in time and get to know historical figures from a different perspective, then feel free to reach for "Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice" by Stephen D Owen. I guarantee you that you will not be bored while reading. I wonder if you will side with Boudica or Suetonius Paulinus.
And it all started with the discovery in 1984 of a well-preserved body, probably belonging to a priest of the Incen. His body was from the 1st century AD. Next, we go back to the 1st century and learn about a dangerous story. Keep your eyes open and be careful who you trust. You will also learn what happened to the druids' gold. You will meet another traitor, Durus, and the prosecutor of Britain, Catus Decianus. Of course, there will be other characters here as well.
I am glad that I could read this novel. I hope that one day we will be able to see the entire trilogy, for example, on Netflix.
Wow! I am shocked that the novel "Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice" by Stephen D Owen drew me in so much. Usually I am not drawn in by books whose subject goes back to the times of Nero. However, the author presented it in such a way that I can not wait for the next part. There will be three parts in total, because it is a trilogy. Stephen D Owen perfectly combines fiction with real historical events. Through two heroines: the Celtic queen Boudica and the traitor Aderyn, he shows that strength has been dormant in women since those times. Boudica, or rather Queen Bere, had to lead her people after her husband's death. Together with the Iceni and other peoples, she will fight for dignity with the Romans - soldiers of the Roman Empire. She does not want to bow to Nero. Aderyn - unfortunately, is a traitor. Will she have to pay for it?
In this novel, you will find many plot twists, conspiracies, betrayals and unforeseen events. There are also many fights and dangerous situations. This is a very exciting historical book. If you like to go back in time and get to know historical figures from a different perspective, then feel free to reach for "Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice" by Stephen D Owen. I guarantee you that you will not be bored while reading. I wonder if you will side with Boudica or Suetonius Paulinus.
And it all started with the discovery in 1984 of a well-preserved body, probably belonging to a priest of the Incen. His body was from the 1st century AD. Next, we go back to the 1st century and learn about a dangerous story. Keep your eyes open and be careful who you trust. You will also learn what happened to the druids' gold. You will meet another traitor, Durus, and the prosecutor of Britain, Catus Decianus. Of course, there will be other characters here as well.
I am glad that I could read this novel. I hope that one day we will be able to see the entire trilogy, for example, on Netflix.
September 11, 2025
Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice
By:-Stephen D Owen
5 outof 5 🌟
This isn’t just a novel—it’s a haunting requiem stitched into the soil of forgotten resistance. Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice reads like an ancestral echo—an invocation of grief, power, and legacy that refuses to fade, even beneath the weight of empire.
Stephen D Owen doesn’t simply write Boudica’s story. He excavates it from under centuries of dust and lets it bleed through modern wounds. You begin reading in 60 AD, but somehow you feel the present thrum beneath every sentence. The land she fights for—brutalized and parceled by Rome—becomes a metaphor for all those whose histories were reduced to footnotes in imperial scrolls.
Boudica isn’t heroic in the Hollywood sense. She is human in the rawest sense. Her defiance is not noble—it is necessary. Her fire is not born of courage, but of mourning. Owen makes you taste her silence before her scream, the ache before the sword, and the unbearable solitude of leadership when even the wind feels like a whisper of doubt.
Camulodunum isn’t just a city—it is a wound. Every Roman edifice stands like an insult carved into the body of a stolen homeland. And when rebellion ignites, it doesn’t feel triumphant—it feels like breathing in after drowning.
But what truly sets this book apart is Owen’s refusal to give easy answers. He doesn’t frame sacrifice as glory. He shows how it is erosion. How to resist is to burn, to lose, to become the ghost that history might one day remember—or choose to forget.
The supporting characters are not background—they are echoes, mirrors, contradictions. The alliances feel brittle, tribal divisions palpable, and yet they gather not out of hope, but from the desperate need to belong to something before they vanish.
In Iceni, history is not written—it is mourned.
And that’s what makes this novel unforgettable: not its battles, but its burial grounds. Not its victories, but its voices. Voices that, thanks to Owen, refuse to be silenced.
By:-Stephen D Owen
5 outof 5 🌟
This isn’t just a novel—it’s a haunting requiem stitched into the soil of forgotten resistance. Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice reads like an ancestral echo—an invocation of grief, power, and legacy that refuses to fade, even beneath the weight of empire.
Stephen D Owen doesn’t simply write Boudica’s story. He excavates it from under centuries of dust and lets it bleed through modern wounds. You begin reading in 60 AD, but somehow you feel the present thrum beneath every sentence. The land she fights for—brutalized and parceled by Rome—becomes a metaphor for all those whose histories were reduced to footnotes in imperial scrolls.
Boudica isn’t heroic in the Hollywood sense. She is human in the rawest sense. Her defiance is not noble—it is necessary. Her fire is not born of courage, but of mourning. Owen makes you taste her silence before her scream, the ache before the sword, and the unbearable solitude of leadership when even the wind feels like a whisper of doubt.
Camulodunum isn’t just a city—it is a wound. Every Roman edifice stands like an insult carved into the body of a stolen homeland. And when rebellion ignites, it doesn’t feel triumphant—it feels like breathing in after drowning.
But what truly sets this book apart is Owen’s refusal to give easy answers. He doesn’t frame sacrifice as glory. He shows how it is erosion. How to resist is to burn, to lose, to become the ghost that history might one day remember—or choose to forget.
The supporting characters are not background—they are echoes, mirrors, contradictions. The alliances feel brittle, tribal divisions palpable, and yet they gather not out of hope, but from the desperate need to belong to something before they vanish.
In Iceni, history is not written—it is mourned.
And that’s what makes this novel unforgettable: not its battles, but its burial grounds. Not its victories, but its voices. Voices that, thanks to Owen, refuse to be silenced.
November 25, 2025
There’s something magnetic about stories that take you back to an age of gods, conquerors, and the fragile line between survival and surrender. Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice is one of those novels that doesn’t just transport you to ancient Britain, it roots you there. You can almost taste the smoke in the air, hear the clash of Roman steel, and feel the weight of destiny pressing down on an entire people.
Stephen D. Owen’s writing has that rare quality. Its detailed and grounded, but still pulsing with emotion. He doesn’t romanticize the past; he lets it speak in its own brutal poetry. Through the rebellion of the Iceni tribe and the shadow of Boudica’s rise, he builds a world that feels both mythic and human — full of blood, faith, and resilience.
What stood out to me most was how personal it all felt. Beneath the battles and the political betrayal is a story about identity, pride, and what it costs to stand up when everything else is lost. You see the sacred and the savage coexist. the druidic whispers, the despair of those watching their homeland torn apart, and the spark of defiance that refuses to die.
The characters breathe through the centuries, flawed and courageous, fighting for something bigger than themselves. There are moments of tenderness buried among the chaos, quiet reflections that catch you off guard before plunging you back into fire and loss.
Few books manage this blend of scale and soul.
Stephen D. Owen’s writing has that rare quality. Its detailed and grounded, but still pulsing with emotion. He doesn’t romanticize the past; he lets it speak in its own brutal poetry. Through the rebellion of the Iceni tribe and the shadow of Boudica’s rise, he builds a world that feels both mythic and human — full of blood, faith, and resilience.
What stood out to me most was how personal it all felt. Beneath the battles and the political betrayal is a story about identity, pride, and what it costs to stand up when everything else is lost. You see the sacred and the savage coexist. the druidic whispers, the despair of those watching their homeland torn apart, and the spark of defiance that refuses to die.
The characters breathe through the centuries, flawed and courageous, fighting for something bigger than themselves. There are moments of tenderness buried among the chaos, quiet reflections that catch you off guard before plunging you back into fire and loss.
Few books manage this blend of scale and soul.
September 25, 2025
This book is the first instalment in the historical trilogy and being honest on my part , this book has left me craved to read the next one. The story takes us back to 60AD, during a time of major conflict in ancient Britain.
The story follows Boudica, the queen of Iceni tribe who seeks revenge after the brutal treatment of her family by the Romans. After the death of her husband , Boudica leads a rebellion against the Roman Empire.Her journey is not set all alone , she’s joined by several tribes, all these tribes irrespective of the caste differences come and join together to take on their common enemy.
Boudica is the heart of the book, she’s just not a warrior but also a mother and a leaders who has to make tough choices. The story shows us the power of unity , the pain of loss ,and the drive to protect your land and your family . The novel does a great job of showing Boudica’s transformation from a grieving widow to fierce leader. While reading the story , I could easily feel the pain and her determination as she fights to protect her family.
Overall , a commendable job done by the author. If you guys enjoy historical fiction then I would definitely recommend this book to everyone out there , you are going to enjoy every bit of it. Strong characters ,epic battles are definitely going to make this a worth read .
Go and grab the copy of this book as soon as possible.
The story follows Boudica, the queen of Iceni tribe who seeks revenge after the brutal treatment of her family by the Romans. After the death of her husband , Boudica leads a rebellion against the Roman Empire.Her journey is not set all alone , she’s joined by several tribes, all these tribes irrespective of the caste differences come and join together to take on their common enemy.
Boudica is the heart of the book, she’s just not a warrior but also a mother and a leaders who has to make tough choices. The story shows us the power of unity , the pain of loss ,and the drive to protect your land and your family . The novel does a great job of showing Boudica’s transformation from a grieving widow to fierce leader. While reading the story , I could easily feel the pain and her determination as she fights to protect her family.
Overall , a commendable job done by the author. If you guys enjoy historical fiction then I would definitely recommend this book to everyone out there , you are going to enjoy every bit of it. Strong characters ,epic battles are definitely going to make this a worth read .
Go and grab the copy of this book as soon as possible.
October 28, 2025
I have to admit I am one of those "judge a book by its cover" type of reader. When I saw the cover for ICENI: The Year of Sacrifice, I was excited to have the opportunity to get a copy for myself and see what it was about. Stephen D. Owen's first book from his ICENI series was far from being a disappointment. I was pleasantly surprised at how good it was. It was full of adventure, history, mystery, suspense, and action with twists and turns. I loved Boudica and felt like I could some of myself within her. I admired her bravery, courage, and determination. She refuses to back down and does all she can to protect herself and those she loves. I thought this story was great to read and was easy for me to turn page after page.
I am going to give ICENI: The Year of Sacrifice a very well deserved five plus stars. I would have given it one hundred stars if I could have. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read the combination of historical fiction and thriller fiction. I am looking forward to getting my hands on the next installment from the ICENI series to see what happens next and what author, Stephen D. Owen, has in store for his fans.
I received a digital copy of Stephen D Owen's ICENI: The Year of Sacrifice from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am going to give ICENI: The Year of Sacrifice a very well deserved five plus stars. I would have given it one hundred stars if I could have. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read the combination of historical fiction and thriller fiction. I am looking forward to getting my hands on the next installment from the ICENI series to see what happens next and what author, Stephen D. Owen, has in store for his fans.
I received a digital copy of Stephen D Owen's ICENI: The Year of Sacrifice from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
November 7, 2025
In 60 AD, the death of King Prasutagus of the Iceni tribe should have secured a peaceful division of his lands between Rome and his daughters. Instead, the Roman Procurator Catus Decianus seizes everything and subjects Boudica, her family, and her people to humiliation and violence. This betrayal ignites a revolt that gathers tribes across Britannia, including the Trinovantes, Coritani, and Catuvellauni. With Roman legions drawn north and the provincial capital of Camulodunum poorly defended, Boudica and her allies launch a rebellion that tests resolve, unity, strategy, and the cost of freedom. The novel follows the uprising from the inside: political tension, tribal diplomacy, battlefield terror, and the heavy weight of leadership.
The book is compelling. A nail biting historical thriller. It refuses to romanticize rebellion. Stephen D. Owen writes revolution as something raw and volatile: shaped by grief and carried by fury. Powerful characters, great storytelling right from the prologue.
The battle scenes are tense and grounded in human stakes. Every decision feels like it costs something, and that is what gives this book weight. This is historical fiction written with respect for recorded history and a clear eye for the emotional truth of revolt. I enjoyed reading this one.
The book is compelling. A nail biting historical thriller. It refuses to romanticize rebellion. Stephen D. Owen writes revolution as something raw and volatile: shaped by grief and carried by fury. Powerful characters, great storytelling right from the prologue.
The battle scenes are tense and grounded in human stakes. Every decision feels like it costs something, and that is what gives this book weight. This is historical fiction written with respect for recorded history and a clear eye for the emotional truth of revolt. I enjoyed reading this one.
October 23, 2025
ICENI: The Year of Sacrifice is historical fiction at its most powerful—gritty, human, and emotionally charged. Stephen D. Owen brings an ancient world vividly to life, balancing thrilling military action with deep personal stakes.
What stood out most to me is Owen’s portrayal of Boudica—not as a mythical warrior queen, but as a grieving woman driven by pain, love, and fierce determination. The author’s attention to historical authenticity shines through the battle scenes, Roman politics, and tribal alliances, yet the narrative never feels bogged down by detail.
The pacing builds steadily toward an explosive confrontation that mirrors the moral question at the heart of every rebellion: what must be sacrificed for freedom?
Fans of Simon Scarrow, Conn Iggulden, or Madeline Miller will find much to love here.
Read my full review at www.ginaraemitchell.com/iceni
⚖️ Review at a Glance
Genre: Historical Fiction / Thriller
Setting: Roman Britannia, 60 AD
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Best for: Readers who love strong heroines, ancient warfare, and meticulously researched storytelling.
Quick Take: A bold and immersive retelling of Boudica’s uprising—rich in atmosphere, heart, and historical depth.
What stood out most to me is Owen’s portrayal of Boudica—not as a mythical warrior queen, but as a grieving woman driven by pain, love, and fierce determination. The author’s attention to historical authenticity shines through the battle scenes, Roman politics, and tribal alliances, yet the narrative never feels bogged down by detail.
The pacing builds steadily toward an explosive confrontation that mirrors the moral question at the heart of every rebellion: what must be sacrificed for freedom?
Fans of Simon Scarrow, Conn Iggulden, or Madeline Miller will find much to love here.
Read my full review at www.ginaraemitchell.com/iceni
⚖️ Review at a Glance
Genre: Historical Fiction / Thriller
Setting: Roman Britannia, 60 AD
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Best for: Readers who love strong heroines, ancient warfare, and meticulously researched storytelling.
Quick Take: A bold and immersive retelling of Boudica’s uprising—rich in atmosphere, heart, and historical depth.
November 15, 2025
📕Title: "Iceni"
✍️Author: Stephen D Owen😊
📚Review: Stephen D. Owen’s Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice is an enthralling blend of history, passion, and rebellion—a powerful reimagining of one of ancient Britain’s most defining uprisings. Set in 60 AD, the novel plunges readers into a world torn between Roman conquest and Celtic pride, where vengeance and destiny collide under the indomitable spirit of Boudica.
When the death of King Prasutagus leads to betrayal and brutality at the hands of Rome, Boudica’s cry for justice ignites a fire that unites the Iceni and their allies against overwhelming odds. Owen’s writing captures not only the brutal realities of war but also the humanity and courage behind rebellion. With vivid descriptions, rich historical detail, and emotional depth, the novel brings to life a timeless story of sacrifice and resistance.
A riveting start to a promising trilogy, Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, strong heroines, and epic tales of defiance. Step into the heart of Britannia’s fight for freedom—where legends are born and history bleeds.
✨#books #bookstagram #book #booklover #reading
✍️Author: Stephen D Owen😊
📚Review: Stephen D. Owen’s Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice is an enthralling blend of history, passion, and rebellion—a powerful reimagining of one of ancient Britain’s most defining uprisings. Set in 60 AD, the novel plunges readers into a world torn between Roman conquest and Celtic pride, where vengeance and destiny collide under the indomitable spirit of Boudica.
When the death of King Prasutagus leads to betrayal and brutality at the hands of Rome, Boudica’s cry for justice ignites a fire that unites the Iceni and their allies against overwhelming odds. Owen’s writing captures not only the brutal realities of war but also the humanity and courage behind rebellion. With vivid descriptions, rich historical detail, and emotional depth, the novel brings to life a timeless story of sacrifice and resistance.
A riveting start to a promising trilogy, Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, strong heroines, and epic tales of defiance. Step into the heart of Britannia’s fight for freedom—where legends are born and history bleeds.
✨#books #bookstagram #book #booklover #reading
June 18, 2025
Iceni The Year of Sacrifice is the first in a new trilogy by Stephen Owen and it was definitely a strong start. Owen has done a brilliant job at combining historical facts with some fantastic fictional writing to bring the Iceni people and Boudica to life. As someone who has always had an interest in ancient history I was excited to read this one and I have to say it didn’t let me down at all.
I will say that there is a lot going on, particularly at the start. There are a lot of characters we are introduced to. I didn’t really struggle with this much after getting a little way into the novel though. I will also say that this one doesn’t hold back. There is a lot of brutality, which you could expect when dealing with Romans and indeed the Iceni but Owens does this in historically accurate ways that help show just what Boudica and her people suffered.
If you enjoy historical novels this is one I think you should give a chance too. I will definitely be reading the others in the series.
I will say that there is a lot going on, particularly at the start. There are a lot of characters we are introduced to. I didn’t really struggle with this much after getting a little way into the novel though. I will also say that this one doesn’t hold back. There is a lot of brutality, which you could expect when dealing with Romans and indeed the Iceni but Owens does this in historically accurate ways that help show just what Boudica and her people suffered.
If you enjoy historical novels this is one I think you should give a chance too. I will definitely be reading the others in the series.
March 17, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 Stars)
We journey back to 60 AD as Boudica, the fierce warrior queen of the Iceni tribe, leads a revolt against the Roman Empire after the brutal treatment of her family. With allies from neighbouring tribes, she sets out to destroy the Roman hold on Britannia, aiming to exact revenge on the corrupt Roman officials who wronged her.
The historical detail is rich, and Boudica’s strength as a leader is inspiring. The alliances between tribes and the political intrigue are gripping, but the pacing can be slow at times, especially when focusing on preparations for battle.
While Boudica’s character is well-developed, other characters don’t get as much depth, which weakens the overall emotional impact.
Overall, it’s a thrilling start to a historical trilogy with promise, though it could benefit from tighter pacing and more developed secondary characters.
A solid historical adventure, full of action and vengeance, but room to grow in depth and pacing!
We journey back to 60 AD as Boudica, the fierce warrior queen of the Iceni tribe, leads a revolt against the Roman Empire after the brutal treatment of her family. With allies from neighbouring tribes, she sets out to destroy the Roman hold on Britannia, aiming to exact revenge on the corrupt Roman officials who wronged her.
The historical detail is rich, and Boudica’s strength as a leader is inspiring. The alliances between tribes and the political intrigue are gripping, but the pacing can be slow at times, especially when focusing on preparations for battle.
While Boudica’s character is well-developed, other characters don’t get as much depth, which weakens the overall emotional impact.
Overall, it’s a thrilling start to a historical trilogy with promise, though it could benefit from tighter pacing and more developed secondary characters.
A solid historical adventure, full of action and vengeance, but room to grow in depth and pacing!
November 7, 2025
It's a first in the series of a historical trilogy thingy. I dare you to not fall in love with Stephen D Owen's writing. It's incredibly immersive, it's set in ancient times but to me it read like I was having this conversation with someone ordinarily in 2025. It's mesmerizing and that's a small word for the novel. There's insane historical detailing that history buffs would surely love but I was too focused on the emotions of people in the book. Boudica, honestly, what a character. What depth also what tragedy. She's grappling with loss and grief that might paralyze mere mortals. But not the spirit of the Iceni, a tribe who revolted against a Roman occupation.
There's pain in the pages and you know, this was a tainted chapter in history. There's lots of blood and brutality and violence but I think I'm shook by the reality of it. It's a noble book. You have to read it to understand it's Marvel
There's pain in the pages and you know, this was a tainted chapter in history. There's lots of blood and brutality and violence but I think I'm shook by the reality of it. It's a noble book. You have to read it to understand it's Marvel
February 19, 2025
This is a good read despite a few flaws, the author has a tendency to repeat a bit and the book would benefit from a glossary of Latin place names and roman military rankings and titles.
Having said this it covers an interesting period of our history, the revolt of Queen Boudica and the tribes of Briton against Roman rule and injustice, It is hard to settle on any one character as the story chops and changes between the Romans and Britons none of whom we meet in any great detail.
As this is a debut novel I am willing to forgive some cumbersome writing and I will give the next volume a go as the subject is interesting.
I would like to thank the Author, Publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and give honest feedback of this advance copy
Having said this it covers an interesting period of our history, the revolt of Queen Boudica and the tribes of Briton against Roman rule and injustice, It is hard to settle on any one character as the story chops and changes between the Romans and Britons none of whom we meet in any great detail.
As this is a debut novel I am willing to forgive some cumbersome writing and I will give the next volume a go as the subject is interesting.
I would like to thank the Author, Publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and give honest feedback of this advance copy
September 30, 2025
Iceni: The Year of Sacrifice is a gripping start to Stephen D. Owen’s historical trilogy, bringing to life the legendary rebellion of Boudica with intensity and vivid detail. The novel captures the brutality of Roman rule, the heartbreak of betrayal, and the fierce spirit of a woman determined to fight for her people. The battle scenes are immersive, the political intrigue compelling, and the sense of sacrifice runs through every page. A must-read for fans of historical fiction and epic tales of courage and resistance.
October 19, 2025
Iceni: The Year of the Sacrifice is a richly and researched historical detailed story immersed with fiction. It's a masterpiece of a story and is a credit to the author who has created believable characters. You can feel their pain, grief and triumph. I enjoyed the battle of the sacrifices made and the story feels alive and thriving. I don't read this type of book often but surprisingly I want to read this one again just to see if there was anything I may have missed the first time. It's a strong storyline and it captured my attention from the start.
October 27, 2025
This is one of those books I’d gladly recommend to younger readers, too, not just adults. Of course, you have to be mature enough and should be ok with somewhat graphic descriptions of battles and psychological aspects of conflicts. But if you are a teen who is ok with that – yesss, this might be your new favorite read, if you love history / historic fiction. Not just historical fiction – this book is filled with moral dilemmas, loyalty challenges, and harsh realities of war. At times, the story is action-packed with battles, strategic maneuvers, and the tension of impending conflict.
January 29, 2025
I really wanted to love this book. The beginning started out strong, I got to 20% and persisted to 52% but there were too many side characters. I’m interested in the story of Boudicca and the Iceni, I have a little knowledge of it but I feel like this book is for someone who has much more knowledge than myself. Personally I would much prefer the book if it focused on one main character
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