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Sword and Serpent
Sword and Serpent
In A.D. 299, the Roman oracles ceased to prophesy for the Emperor Diocletian. The silence of the gods sparks a bloody storm of persecution that sweeps across the Roman Empire. As the fires of suspicion and hatred ignite all around them, a young man and a young woman are united by a prophecy from the catacombs of Rome...one that will set them on a journey to battle an evil beyond imagining.
410 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
338 people are currently reading
1172 people want to read
About the author
Taylor R. Marshall
14 books467 followersTaylor Marshall reads, reads, and reads. And then he writes.
He is the President of the New Saint Thomas Institute.
Dr. Marshall earned BA in Philosophy from Texas A&M University, an MAR in Systematic Theology from Westminster Theological Seminary, a Certificate in Anglican Studies from Nashotah Theological House, and an MS in Philosophy from the University of Dallas.
He completed a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Dallas with the thesis “Thomas Aquinas on Natural Law and the Twofold Beatitude of Humanity.”
He lives in Colleyville, Texas with his wife, Joy, and eight children.
He is the President of the New Saint Thomas Institute.
Dr. Marshall earned BA in Philosophy from Texas A&M University, an MAR in Systematic Theology from Westminster Theological Seminary, a Certificate in Anglican Studies from Nashotah Theological House, and an MS in Philosophy from the University of Dallas.
He completed a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Dallas with the thesis “Thomas Aquinas on Natural Law and the Twofold Beatitude of Humanity.”
He lives in Colleyville, Texas with his wife, Joy, and eight children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
August 19, 2016
Epic story; that is the best way to sum up this book! I have become a fan of Dr. Marshall's blog and podcasts. I have even read a few of this theological works, but this narrative as historical fiction was an amazing read. For a number of years in university I wore a Saint George medal that my grandmother had given me. This retelling of the legend of Saint George and the Dragon brings it to live in a new way.
The writing in this tale is masterful, set in A.D. 299, in the Roman empire it weaves tales and stories of a number of saints, into a very addictive read. In many ways it reads like Jack Whyte's historical fiction but with a stronger Christian message. In some ways it reads like Tolkien in its epic proportions and alternating story lines that eventually weave together. This was a thoroughly addictive read. Once I got into it, it was very hard to put down. The characters are wonderfully written, Lucius Aurelius Georgius known as Jurian, Menas the giant, Sabra the daughter of the Governor of Cyrene and priestess of the old god, and her servant Hanno. The story's main arcs focus around these four. But we also have the bishop Saint Nikolaos, Blasios or Saint Blaise, Saint Cyricius to name but a few.
The elements of myth, fantasy and history blend so well in this novel that at times as you are transported into the story you forget it is historical fiction and enter the world Taylor Marshall has created. But as Jurial struggles with understanding the faith of his mother and sister, he is growing in that faith; that same faith can be an example for us, teaching us to trust more, step out in faith more to grow. Madelein L'Engle stated ""We are all strangers in a strange land, longing for home, but not quite knowing what or where home is. We glimpse it sometimes in our dreams, or as we turn a corner, and suddenly there is a strange, sweet familiarity that vanishes almost as soon as it comes. In literature the longing for home is found in the many stories of paradise, of the forgotten place where we once belonged." This story does that it gives us glimpses of greater truths, it reveals saints and in part the path to becoming saints in our own lives.
I believe that this would have been a book that both Tolkien and Lewis would have loved. I can picture the Inklings sitting with a pint discussing the story and speculating where it would go next. And according to Taylor's website that sequel will be out in 2016.
This was an incredible read. I average well over 100 books read each year. And this was one of the best that I have read in a long, long time. If you have an interest in ancient Rome, early Christianity, dragons or even just love a good read you need to give this book a try.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Taylor R. Marshall.
The writing in this tale is masterful, set in A.D. 299, in the Roman empire it weaves tales and stories of a number of saints, into a very addictive read. In many ways it reads like Jack Whyte's historical fiction but with a stronger Christian message. In some ways it reads like Tolkien in its epic proportions and alternating story lines that eventually weave together. This was a thoroughly addictive read. Once I got into it, it was very hard to put down. The characters are wonderfully written, Lucius Aurelius Georgius known as Jurian, Menas the giant, Sabra the daughter of the Governor of Cyrene and priestess of the old god, and her servant Hanno. The story's main arcs focus around these four. But we also have the bishop Saint Nikolaos, Blasios or Saint Blaise, Saint Cyricius to name but a few.
The elements of myth, fantasy and history blend so well in this novel that at times as you are transported into the story you forget it is historical fiction and enter the world Taylor Marshall has created. But as Jurial struggles with understanding the faith of his mother and sister, he is growing in that faith; that same faith can be an example for us, teaching us to trust more, step out in faith more to grow. Madelein L'Engle stated ""We are all strangers in a strange land, longing for home, but not quite knowing what or where home is. We glimpse it sometimes in our dreams, or as we turn a corner, and suddenly there is a strange, sweet familiarity that vanishes almost as soon as it comes. In literature the longing for home is found in the many stories of paradise, of the forgotten place where we once belonged." This story does that it gives us glimpses of greater truths, it reveals saints and in part the path to becoming saints in our own lives.
I believe that this would have been a book that both Tolkien and Lewis would have loved. I can picture the Inklings sitting with a pint discussing the story and speculating where it would go next. And according to Taylor's website that sequel will be out in 2016.
This was an incredible read. I average well over 100 books read each year. And this was one of the best that I have read in a long, long time. If you have an interest in ancient Rome, early Christianity, dragons or even just love a good read you need to give this book a try.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Taylor R. Marshall.
December 27, 2021
Got this book for my brother for Christmas and so of course I had to snitch it. The retelling was pretty well done. Would definitely say that it is a teen and up book because of the human sacrifice elements. Otherwise, quite clean and an enjoyable read.
September 27, 2024
Okay, wow! That was really really dark and intense, but ultimately so beautiful! I didn't like that they set the St George story in pretty much every place under the sun EXCEPT for England, but besides that I thought the way Marshall tied in the St George story, King Arthur's sword, pagan gods, St Christoper and St Nicholas, Roman life, and Christian tradition was AMAZING.
November 30, 2016
Escribiré una crítica muy pronto/I will write a review soon.
August 28, 2015
While I have been reading his blog for a decade and have read his theological books I hadn't really considered buying this. That is until I found Fr. Longenecker's positive review where he was surprised by how good it was. He had the same trepidations about a first novel.
This isn't just some pious story, but a well-told story that reminds me of Louis DeWohl. As a historical novel involving a famous myth I was totally drawn in. Elements of epic fantasy, history, and myth brought together believably. The end of the novel suggests possibly a sequel, but it stands totally alone.
This isn't just some pious story, but a well-told story that reminds me of Louis DeWohl. As a historical novel involving a famous myth I was totally drawn in. Elements of epic fantasy, history, and myth brought together believably. The end of the novel suggests possibly a sequel, but it stands totally alone.
March 9, 2020
~Behold,I have given you authority to tread upon serpents ~
What a great book I devoured it in no time.
Now I’m keen to buy the other two ;)
The story about Jurian and his quest to Rome one the one side and the life of sabra on the other was great.
I love the way the book combines the saints and life in the ancient world.
We get a glance at the way life could have looked like
In different cultures.
This contributes to the diversity of the characters and their personality
I for my part loved the different set of characters they are well written. Surprisingly this is a novel where I enjoyed all characters.
That is not the norm for me because so many books especially in the fantasy genre lack good characters these days.
Moreover the characters are not perfect they all have their own problems,dark secrets and sufferings.
That makes them very human and relatable for me.
I liked Sabra the most her inner conflict between her duty to serve the god and the immoral sacrifices was very tense.
She had a pretty dark vibe I enjoyed
( I admit I’m more on the dark side I like characters who are devious and imperfect )
I must say the book can be read by teens and adults alike.
The thrilling story has a lot of topics that are suited for both.
I dare to compare this book to the works of my beloved Rick Riordan.
It’s a combination of the real word with stories and legends of the saints.
As a teenager I would have loved it
What a great book I devoured it in no time.
Now I’m keen to buy the other two ;)
The story about Jurian and his quest to Rome one the one side and the life of sabra on the other was great.
I love the way the book combines the saints and life in the ancient world.
We get a glance at the way life could have looked like
In different cultures.
This contributes to the diversity of the characters and their personality
I for my part loved the different set of characters they are well written. Surprisingly this is a novel where I enjoyed all characters.
That is not the norm for me because so many books especially in the fantasy genre lack good characters these days.
Moreover the characters are not perfect they all have their own problems,dark secrets and sufferings.
That makes them very human and relatable for me.
I liked Sabra the most her inner conflict between her duty to serve the god and the immoral sacrifices was very tense.
She had a pretty dark vibe I enjoyed
( I admit I’m more on the dark side I like characters who are devious and imperfect )
I must say the book can be read by teens and adults alike.
The thrilling story has a lot of topics that are suited for both.
I dare to compare this book to the works of my beloved Rick Riordan.
It’s a combination of the real word with stories and legends of the saints.
As a teenager I would have loved it
March 23, 2024
An incredible retelling of the incredible saga of Saint George and the Dragon.
November 26, 2014
This fantasy novel, written by noted Catholic scholar and educator Dr. Taylor Marshall, presents a story for readers of all faiths and ages. While it retells the story of St. George through the journey of young Jurian, who encounters other famous saints along the way - including St. Christopher, St. Nicholas, and St. Blaise (known in the story by other names) - its larger focus reveals the internal struggle between good and evil present in the heart of every person. Jurian, who comes from a Christian family, spends the length of the book learning what it means to truly be a follower of Christ. Separately, we follow the story of Sabra, a young priestess who only knows (or so thinks) that it is her responsibility to appease the anger of "the old god" (in reality a demoic force) through offering human sacrifices to save her people from total destruction. Both Jurian and Sabra experience life-altering challenges which test their understandings of duty, justice, faith, honor, and courage. They each witness the heroic actions of others in their lives demonstrate what it means to love, wholly and completely. This love motivates them both to offer themselves as sacrifices for their loved ones, albeit in different ways, showing both humility and strength in their search for truth.
Dr. Marshall's first venture into religious based fiction bounces back and forth from Jurian's journey to Sabra's, eventually intertwining the two together as the they encounter other in the process of fulfilling their respective obligations. Dr. Marshall shares that these tales originated from bedtime stories he crafted for his children, which reveal his focus on educating in an entertaining and interesting manner. Through this story, he provides lessons through demonstrating goodness vs evil, love vs hatred, courage vs fear, friendship vs exploitation, and more. It is a fast paced, thrilling read, meant to captivate an audience and illustrate how Christian faith, hope, and charity lead to true freedom and joy.
Jurian's final battle tests him both spiritually and physically, which he is only able to endure through clinging to the strength of the cross of Christ. This fight provides the climax readers are looking for, however it also leaves them looking for more, as it ends with several aspects of the story left unresolved - setting up the likelihood of a sequel (or two) in the works.
After reading the novel, I would recommend it for anyone looking to discover or rediscover the beauty of Christianity, for anyone who has become lukewarm in the faith, for those who have begun serving a god other than the one true God, and for those of any age or faith background who enjoy a good story and want to experience the power of love and life overcoming the forces of destruction.
Dr. Marshall's first venture into religious based fiction bounces back and forth from Jurian's journey to Sabra's, eventually intertwining the two together as the they encounter other in the process of fulfilling their respective obligations. Dr. Marshall shares that these tales originated from bedtime stories he crafted for his children, which reveal his focus on educating in an entertaining and interesting manner. Through this story, he provides lessons through demonstrating goodness vs evil, love vs hatred, courage vs fear, friendship vs exploitation, and more. It is a fast paced, thrilling read, meant to captivate an audience and illustrate how Christian faith, hope, and charity lead to true freedom and joy.
Jurian's final battle tests him both spiritually and physically, which he is only able to endure through clinging to the strength of the cross of Christ. This fight provides the climax readers are looking for, however it also leaves them looking for more, as it ends with several aspects of the story left unresolved - setting up the likelihood of a sequel (or two) in the works.
After reading the novel, I would recommend it for anyone looking to discover or rediscover the beauty of Christianity, for anyone who has become lukewarm in the faith, for those who have begun serving a god other than the one true God, and for those of any age or faith background who enjoy a good story and want to experience the power of love and life overcoming the forces of destruction.
November 25, 2014
Dr. Taylor Marshall has written a truly amazing book called “Sword and Serpent: A Retelling of Saint George and the Dragon.” Hitherto, Dr. Marshall has published excellent non-fiction works such as, “The Crucified Rabbi,” “The Catholic Perspective on Paul,” “The Eternal City” and “Thomas Aquinas in 50 Pages.” With his adaptation of the story of Saint George, Dr. Marshall has brought together tradition, legend, and imagination in a compelling narrative.
In “Sword and Serpent” we follow young Jurian (Saint George) on a journey of epic proportions. Jurian is a deep, complex, and compelling character who draws us into the heart of a world fueled by fear, uncertainty, and growing paranoia. The Roman Empire is in turmoil and looking for answers as time-tested religious traditions are failing. The fate of the entire empire hangs in the balance, and Rome is looking for answers, or at the very least, someone to blame for their perceived misfortunes. A new cult which has arisen in Palestine is viewed with suspicion and many are beginning to wonder if this cult is to blame for the displeasure of the old gods. Jurian is forced to struggle with many foes, within and without, and ultimately he is brought face-to-face with an ancient nemesis. The account of this face-off will chill readers to the bone. Through heart-stopping, gut-wrenching, and jaw-dropping situations, Jurian learns what it means to be a son, brother, friend, soldier, and a man. He ultimately finds himself in the only way a person can truly find himself – by giving himself away to others and ultimately to Christ.
Dr. Marshall writes, “Here he was, a fire-headed half-Greek Roman with a Germanic name from the borderlands of Anatolia, pitching on the sea headed for the Libyan coast with a Celtic sword clutched in his hand.” In this book, Dr. Marshall brings many threads together, in a carefully crafted story which is engaging. The only complaint I can offer is that I had trouble putting this book down!
In “Sword and Serpent” we follow young Jurian (Saint George) on a journey of epic proportions. Jurian is a deep, complex, and compelling character who draws us into the heart of a world fueled by fear, uncertainty, and growing paranoia. The Roman Empire is in turmoil and looking for answers as time-tested religious traditions are failing. The fate of the entire empire hangs in the balance, and Rome is looking for answers, or at the very least, someone to blame for their perceived misfortunes. A new cult which has arisen in Palestine is viewed with suspicion and many are beginning to wonder if this cult is to blame for the displeasure of the old gods. Jurian is forced to struggle with many foes, within and without, and ultimately he is brought face-to-face with an ancient nemesis. The account of this face-off will chill readers to the bone. Through heart-stopping, gut-wrenching, and jaw-dropping situations, Jurian learns what it means to be a son, brother, friend, soldier, and a man. He ultimately finds himself in the only way a person can truly find himself – by giving himself away to others and ultimately to Christ.
Dr. Marshall writes, “Here he was, a fire-headed half-Greek Roman with a Germanic name from the borderlands of Anatolia, pitching on the sea headed for the Libyan coast with a Celtic sword clutched in his hand.” In this book, Dr. Marshall brings many threads together, in a carefully crafted story which is engaging. The only complaint I can offer is that I had trouble putting this book down!
June 9, 2018
ENGLISH: A retelling of the legend of St. George and the dragon, in the environment of a historical novel about the Roman Empire, just before Diocletian's persecution against Christians. This makes it quite different to the first book in Spenser's The Faerie Queene, where St. George is also the hero.
The role of Sabra (the Princess) as the priestess of a clandestine cult of Moloch, together with children sacrifice, is quite well done. Sabra loses nothing in her comparison with Vna, the heroin in The Faerie Queene.
The novel mixes a few anachronistic Arthurian elements, in this way opening the way for a follow-on, which gives an explanation to the fact that St. George was made (much later) the Saint Patron of England.
SPANISH: Nueva versión de la leyenda de San Jorge y el dragón, en el entorno de una novela histórica sobre el Imperio Romano, justo antes de la persecución de Diocleciano contra los cristianos. Esto lo hace bastante diferente del primer libro de The Faerie Queene de Spenser, donde San George también es el héroe.
El papel de Sabra (la Princesa) como sacerdotisa de un culto clandestino de Moloch, con sacrificio de niños incluido, está bien logrado. Sabra no pierde nada al compararla con Una, la heroína de The Faerie Queene.
La novela mezcla algunos elementos artúricos anacrónicos, abriendo así el camino para una continuación en la que se da una explicación al hecho de que San Jorge fuese nombrado (mucho más tarde) Santo Patrón de Inglaterra.
The role of Sabra (the Princess) as the priestess of a clandestine cult of Moloch, together with children sacrifice, is quite well done. Sabra loses nothing in her comparison with Vna, the heroin in The Faerie Queene.
The novel mixes a few anachronistic Arthurian elements, in this way opening the way for a follow-on, which gives an explanation to the fact that St. George was made (much later) the Saint Patron of England.
SPANISH: Nueva versión de la leyenda de San Jorge y el dragón, en el entorno de una novela histórica sobre el Imperio Romano, justo antes de la persecución de Diocleciano contra los cristianos. Esto lo hace bastante diferente del primer libro de The Faerie Queene de Spenser, donde San George también es el héroe.
El papel de Sabra (la Princesa) como sacerdotisa de un culto clandestino de Moloch, con sacrificio de niños incluido, está bien logrado. Sabra no pierde nada al compararla con Una, la heroína de The Faerie Queene.
La novela mezcla algunos elementos artúricos anacrónicos, abriendo así el camino para una continuación en la que se da una explicación al hecho de que San Jorge fuese nombrado (mucho más tarde) Santo Patrón de Inglaterra.
June 19, 2024
I wrote a whole review and it got deleted ;-; goodreads is trash. Gonna rewrite the entire thing on my computer tomorrow bc I'm too tired to sit and type it all out again
November 23, 2014
The Greeks in Rome help spread Christianity in this wonderful introduction to fiction by Taylor Marshall. This book has many well known Saints beside the hero of the book, St. Georges. They include St Nicolas, and pope Dionysus. Throw in Excalibur and the mysterious Merlinus and you have quite an adventure. I love that Taylor wrote this book for many different ages. I am sure many children, YA and adults will love learning how a young man became known as St George the Dragon slayer. Historically accurate using many Latin word to help readers learn the Latin used in the church. Explore the world of Jurian, the future St. George as he journeys to Rome to become a Legionnaire like his father, later to become a slayer of Dragons and the spreader of Christianity. Great work Taylor hope it doesn't take 8 years for you to come out with further adventures of our great saints.
November 25, 2014
It is the first saint fiction book I read and I was truly pleased. T. Marshall has a good writing style that to picture the whole lecture as a movie in my head was very easy.Forget about regular super heroes! Despite being a fiction book about Saint George, this is the type of tale you want to read to little children or gift a friend. I'm counting that this won't be the last of St. George and hopefully we get to read other tales from other saints. More books like this are needed for younger generations!
November 25, 2014
I was initially sceptical about this book, not because of the author who has written many fine books, only because I haven't read fiction in years. I'm now glad I did as I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book brings alive the sounds, smells, and food of the Roman Empire, and the characters are all very believable. Set in the early days of Christianity, it focuses on the life of the young St. George, and his family struggling with the persecution of the emperor Diocletian against the Christians. If you are looking for a good book for Christmas I would definitely recommend this book.
November 26, 2014
I was hesitant about accepting an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review because I was afraid it would not be very good, but it was! This was a thoroughly enjoyable read with well-developed characters who I am looking forward to reading more about as this series unfolds.
June 11, 2018
This novel about the legend of St. George and the dragon was fast paced and interesting. I enjoyed the appeareances of St Nicholas, St Blaise and St Christopher. The subplot about the priestess in Cyrene was my least favorite part.
January 11, 2022
This is the best Catholic Fiction I have ever read (so far). All three books of the trilogy are excellent and are equal to the Lord of the Rings trilogy in my opinion. 10/10
April 18, 2022
Very well written retelling of the legend of St. George and the dragon.
Jurian longs to join the Roman legion and restore the name of his family.
Sabra serves the old god of Cyrene which demands monthly human sacrifices.
Saints Christopher and Nikolas are minor characters in this action adventure which ranges from Anatolia in the east to Rome to N. Africa.
Who will overcome the darkness eating at the heart of the empire?
Jurian longs to join the Roman legion and restore the name of his family.
Sabra serves the old god of Cyrene which demands monthly human sacrifices.
Saints Christopher and Nikolas are minor characters in this action adventure which ranges from Anatolia in the east to Rome to N. Africa.
Who will overcome the darkness eating at the heart of the empire?
December 30, 2021
Dr. Taylor Marshall’s new book, Sword and Serpent, is a fascinating tale of teenaged Jurian’s maturing quickly to manhood as he and his sister are hunted throughout the Roman Empire by a family enemy. His search for meaning in his life becomes a quest for Truth itself, and he meets many “fellow travelers” along the way who assist with answers and questions of their own. A retelling of the story of St. George and the dragon, this is not a stale re-hashing but a historical novel filled with intrigue, suspense, dialogue, action, friendship, and even some romantic tension. Delightfully, some other saints (not declared as such) and Excalibur appear whose stories are masterfully woven into the plot, creating a magnificent tapestry of saints and heroes, soldiers and slaves, villains and comrades, history and prophecy. The novel climaxes with an intense battle with the dragon during which Jurian realizes that he is completely outmatched but that he need not rely on himself alone.
This novel explores the quest for truth, the search for faith, and the meaning of one’s life. In it, the reader meets selfish cowards, selfless defenders, and honest questioners. Originally conceived as bedtime stories for the author’s children, the tale grew into a novel I would recommend for adults, teenagers, and pre-teens.
The one thing lacking in the book was a map detailing the adventurous travels of the protagonist and his companions. However, a map is included in the special limited-edition version of the first 3,000 printed copies.
The only other disappointment with this book is that it came to a conclusion. Hopefully, the author will write a sequel so that we can read the further adventures of George/Jurian as he (hopefully) finds his captured friend and adventures into Britannia.
I received an advance PDF copy of this book to read before publication. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and purchased it immediately upon publication.
This novel explores the quest for truth, the search for faith, and the meaning of one’s life. In it, the reader meets selfish cowards, selfless defenders, and honest questioners. Originally conceived as bedtime stories for the author’s children, the tale grew into a novel I would recommend for adults, teenagers, and pre-teens.
The one thing lacking in the book was a map detailing the adventurous travels of the protagonist and his companions. However, a map is included in the special limited-edition version of the first 3,000 printed copies.
The only other disappointment with this book is that it came to a conclusion. Hopefully, the author will write a sequel so that we can read the further adventures of George/Jurian as he (hopefully) finds his captured friend and adventures into Britannia.
I received an advance PDF copy of this book to read before publication. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and purchased it immediately upon publication.
November 25, 2014
Sword and Serpent is a thrilling adventure following the tale of a young St. George and a pagan priestess. This is an exciting period of Christian history that I was thrilled to see Dr. Marshall tackle in a fun and clever way. Dr. Marshall does a wonderful job painting a vivid picture in your mind of early fourth century Rome and the surrounding Mediterranean. Although this book is a fictional retelling of the story of St. George, Dr. Marshall successfully incorporates historical people and events which adds an exciting and unique twist to the book. The story is an emotional roller coaster as you witness St. George grow up from a young boy to a man through all of the trials and tribulations that he faces. This novel is also filled with many "Easter eggs" and surprises that will keep you on your toes throughout the book. For anyone interested in the early centuries of Christian persecution and martyrdom, it is often the case that precise details of the historical events are lost. This novel fills the imagination with the legends that surround these tales, and has resulted in a truly unique genre of Christian fiction. I highly recommend this book and hope that Dr. Marshall pursues more works in this genre.
March 22, 2025
This was an enjoyable YA romp that managed to tie in deep religious themes in a way that didn’t feel cheesy. I’m newly Catholic and do not know a ton about the saints and their legends, so the way actual saints and their stories was sprinkled into this story made it even more enjoyable.
Jurian is a very typical fantasy protagonist, though he does have distinctive that make him more interesting. However he does call to mind Rand, Eragon, and other similar characters. But this is absolutely perfect for the sort of story being told here.
This book, especially in the beginning, reminded me of Malice by John Gwynne. However it certainly does not contain the graphic violence of that book, and is meant to appeal to a younger audience. That being said, as a 32 who usually reads much darker content, I enjoyed the hell out of this book. I look forward to picking up book 2!
Jurian is a very typical fantasy protagonist, though he does have distinctive that make him more interesting. However he does call to mind Rand, Eragon, and other similar characters. But this is absolutely perfect for the sort of story being told here.
This book, especially in the beginning, reminded me of Malice by John Gwynne. However it certainly does not contain the graphic violence of that book, and is meant to appeal to a younger audience. That being said, as a 32 who usually reads much darker content, I enjoyed the hell out of this book. I look forward to picking up book 2!
July 11, 2023
*4.5 stars.
I really enjoyed this book! It was a window into what life with sacrificial worship to pagan gods and persecution of Christian’s looked like. I love the courage presented in this book, even when it’s for the wrong reasons. In a world of caring about oneself first and foremost, it’s always encouraging to see examples of great bravery and self sacrifice. I also really loved getting to see a couple of saints represented in the story, not just St George. That was such a fun part!
I’m looking forward to the rest of the series!
I really enjoyed this book! It was a window into what life with sacrificial worship to pagan gods and persecution of Christian’s looked like. I love the courage presented in this book, even when it’s for the wrong reasons. In a world of caring about oneself first and foremost, it’s always encouraging to see examples of great bravery and self sacrifice. I also really loved getting to see a couple of saints represented in the story, not just St George. That was such a fun part!
I’m looking forward to the rest of the series!
November 29, 2014
Esta es una excelente historia.
Esta novela sobre san Jorge cuenta con drama, suspenso y humor.
Además de contar una emocionante historia, nos ayuda a conocer más sobre la vida de los primeros cristianos y las peligros que enfrentaban con fe y amor.
Creó que hacen falta más novelas como estas que presenten la vivencia de la fe en un modo nuevo.
Lo negativo de este libro es que el autor me dejó en suspenso para más historias. Quiero la segunda parte
Esta novela sobre san Jorge cuenta con drama, suspenso y humor.
Además de contar una emocionante historia, nos ayuda a conocer más sobre la vida de los primeros cristianos y las peligros que enfrentaban con fe y amor.
Creó que hacen falta más novelas como estas que presenten la vivencia de la fe en un modo nuevo.
Lo negativo de este libro es que el autor me dejó en suspenso para más historias. Quiero la segunda parte
December 22, 2025
Soooo good!!!
June 3, 2019
In hoc signo vinces
The story is incredibly captivating in so many ways...interesting plot, compelling characters, and overall a book that not only has entertainment value but spiritual merit as well.
The story is incredibly captivating in so many ways...interesting plot, compelling characters, and overall a book that not only has entertainment value but spiritual merit as well.
October 19, 2021
Fantastic reimagining. Really intriguing, and steeped in the historical era.
January 28, 2020
I read this as a read-aloud with my kids ages 9-14 and they loved it. I enjoyed it, too. Great supplement for their Latin classes.
November 25, 2014
Sword and the Serpent is a re-imagining of the story of St. George and the dragon. It is set in the time of the late Roman Empire, not long before the empire falls apart.
Sword and the Serpent is a page turner! Not only a fast-paced and well developed story with good values, but with people you care about. The descriptions are well written and historically accurate. It feels like you're really there. It’s not a book to easily put down.
For most of the book Georgius/Georgios is called by the nickname his father gave him, Jurian. Using the Roman naming conventions, a number of other characters also were called by several names. In that way it was like some Russian novels that use multiple names for each character—but you didn’t need a spreadsheet to keep them straight.
A few saints (Christopher, Blaise, and Nicholas) from early Christianity are part of the action. And, as opposed to many stories of those times, there’s a strong female character, the priestess Sabra, in counterpoint to Jurian.
At one point I was a little uncomfortable with the violence with Sabra and later with her slave, but the violence was not gratuitous, but an integral part of the story. The fourth century AD was a violent time, especially if you were a Christian.
One of the things I particularly enjoyed was that Sword and the Serpent wasn’t preachy; the characters and plot were never sacrificed in favor of the message. The author crafted his story well enough to let us recognize what he wanted us to understand without hitting us over the head with it.
Also, although Dr. Marshall is a Catholic writer, this story is not specifically religious. It’s catholic (universal) in its appeal, although I wouldn’t recommend it for pre-teen or younger readers. If you enjoy a good story, you can’t go wrong with Sword and the Serpent.
I will be buying at least two copies for Christmas giving.
Sword and the Serpent is a page turner! Not only a fast-paced and well developed story with good values, but with people you care about. The descriptions are well written and historically accurate. It feels like you're really there. It’s not a book to easily put down.
For most of the book Georgius/Georgios is called by the nickname his father gave him, Jurian. Using the Roman naming conventions, a number of other characters also were called by several names. In that way it was like some Russian novels that use multiple names for each character—but you didn’t need a spreadsheet to keep them straight.
A few saints (Christopher, Blaise, and Nicholas) from early Christianity are part of the action. And, as opposed to many stories of those times, there’s a strong female character, the priestess Sabra, in counterpoint to Jurian.
At one point I was a little uncomfortable with the violence with Sabra and later with her slave, but the violence was not gratuitous, but an integral part of the story. The fourth century AD was a violent time, especially if you were a Christian.
One of the things I particularly enjoyed was that Sword and the Serpent wasn’t preachy; the characters and plot were never sacrificed in favor of the message. The author crafted his story well enough to let us recognize what he wanted us to understand without hitting us over the head with it.
Also, although Dr. Marshall is a Catholic writer, this story is not specifically religious. It’s catholic (universal) in its appeal, although I wouldn’t recommend it for pre-teen or younger readers. If you enjoy a good story, you can’t go wrong with Sword and the Serpent.
I will be buying at least two copies for Christmas giving.
November 25, 2014
This exciting retelling of the life of St. George captured my attention throughout the novel. While concerned with Christians, the book avoids the error of trying to preach, instead letting the characters' own struggles with life and belief inform the novel with believable, not saccharine, faith. For students of classical times, the book is also filled with little gems that warrant only a scarce mention, but which awaken so much more for those who know the events being described. In addition, Latin students will enjoy the Latin terms sprinkled throughout the book, and there is a glossary for those unfamiliar words. (In other words, the usage of Latin is light, so definitely not necessary to know to enjoy this book.) The novel manages to be realistic, covering the persecution of Emperor Diocletian's time, without being needlessly graphic about the suffering and death that occurs in the book. Sensitive youth would not enjoy this book, but mature teens will probably find this book gripping and exciting. But I don't want to give the wrong impression. This is not just a "page turner" to be put down with a satisfied sigh and then forgotten. The book covers themes like the meaning of suffering, the purpose of life, and the value of the things we serve. What is goodness? Truth? Beauty? Is it possible to die well? Is there evil? Without giving anything away, I'll mention that the book follows the lives of Jurian (the future St. George), his sister Mari, and Sabra (a priestess of Moloch). While Jurian and Mari begin the story miles away from Sabra, incidents somehow bring them together and join their lives. This cutting back and forth between the two stories increases the interest, and I found myself waiting to see how the two stories would eventually intertwine. I found this book a satisfying read and can heartily recommend it.
November 26, 2014
As a devotee of historical fiction, I think this book is an excellent addition to the Roman Empire fiction genre of the likes of Ben Kane and Conn Iggulden. While many other historical fiction novels of this period tend to focus on well known wars and Roman political characters of antiquity like Julius Caesar, Marcus Brutus, or Hannibal of Carthage, this novel takes a decidedly different track in the story that it weaves with historical characters that are often not on the radar of historical fiction authors or historians of antiquity in general.
A novel delving into the religious facets of Ancient Rome, particularly the early Christian, is an angle that Roman historical fiction as a genre has not really delved into much or mined particularly well. Other than occasional references to libations to the gods or perhaps a sacrifice to the local deity of choice, most of the fiction written on the Rome of Antiquity is largely ignored or glossed over by authors of the genre. I have always found this a particularly glaring omission as religion was a very powerful force in Ancient Rome both with the rise of Christianity but also the various and often secret cults to the gods, both Greco-Roman and Ancient Egyptian that sprung up in popular culture of the waning years of the Roman Empire. Religion was filling a spiritual hole in the populace that the waning Roman Empire was no longer able to satiate.
This novel delves into that topic in a very interesting way. Despite the title, all the major characters are not, in fact, Christian when they are introduced. The major female character is actually a priestess in a non-Christian secret religious cult. All these religious threads weave a page turning tale of intrigue that really does justice to the religious elements of the Roman Empire that most fiction of the genre does not do justice.
A novel delving into the religious facets of Ancient Rome, particularly the early Christian, is an angle that Roman historical fiction as a genre has not really delved into much or mined particularly well. Other than occasional references to libations to the gods or perhaps a sacrifice to the local deity of choice, most of the fiction written on the Rome of Antiquity is largely ignored or glossed over by authors of the genre. I have always found this a particularly glaring omission as religion was a very powerful force in Ancient Rome both with the rise of Christianity but also the various and often secret cults to the gods, both Greco-Roman and Ancient Egyptian that sprung up in popular culture of the waning years of the Roman Empire. Religion was filling a spiritual hole in the populace that the waning Roman Empire was no longer able to satiate.
This novel delves into that topic in a very interesting way. Despite the title, all the major characters are not, in fact, Christian when they are introduced. The major female character is actually a priestess in a non-Christian secret religious cult. All these religious threads weave a page turning tale of intrigue that really does justice to the religious elements of the Roman Empire that most fiction of the genre does not do justice.
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