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Sword and Serpent
The Tenth Region of the Night
Not all battles are won by the sword. Jurian’s victory against the dark power in Cyrene has earned him renown throughout the Empire, but fame means nothing to him if he can’t save the friend he lost. When Jurian’s search for Menas leads him to Alexandria, he finds an unlikely ally in the Roman governor’s brilliant and precocious daughter, Aikaterina. Together they are swept into the glittering intrigue of Diocletian’s court in Nicomedia, where no one and nothing is what it seems. Then Sabra arrives in the city, and Jurian proves to the Emperor that he is more than just a legend, and finally everything he ever hoped for seems within his reach. But Marcus Valerius Casca is also vying for Diocletian’s favor, and his hatred for Jurian knows no limits. As Casca’s devious plotting snares each of Jurian’s friends in turn, Jurian must discover a way to beat his enemy at his own game and rescue Menas before he destroys them all. From the exotic Alexandria to the imperial court of Nicomedia and the bloody sands of the Roman Colosseum, this sweeping second installment of the Sword and Serpent series will pull you into a riveting adventure through a world of deadly intrigue, where nothing is what it seems and the price of freedom can be greater than life itself. Saints aren’t born. They are forged.
512 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2016
76 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Taylor R. Marshall
14 books461 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 40 reviews
November 28, 2016
As the author, I like this one even more than the first in the series: Sword and Serpent.
The cover depicts a Greek ouroboros - a snake eating itself. Evil always turns in on itself - and this is the trajectory of the novel. Just before daybreak (what the Egyptians call the "Tenth Region of the Night"), evil is thoroughly destroyed.
Saint George (Jurian in the novel) is the light that cuts through the tenth region. He is assisted by philosopher Saint Catherine of Alexandria (Aikaterina), Constantine, Saint Helen, Saint Anastasia, and others as he seeks to rescue his best friend Saint Christopher (Menas - who was abducted at the end of Sword and Serpent Book 1).
Meanwhile, the Roman Emperor Diocletian is preparing to launch a fierce persecution against those that revere the King who loved them in hoc signum.
This book serves as a bridge in the sequence leading to the conversion of Constantine, the conversion of the Roman Empire, and ultimately to the Arthurian legend of Excalibur.
The cover depicts a Greek ouroboros - a snake eating itself. Evil always turns in on itself - and this is the trajectory of the novel. Just before daybreak (what the Egyptians call the "Tenth Region of the Night"), evil is thoroughly destroyed.
Saint George (Jurian in the novel) is the light that cuts through the tenth region. He is assisted by philosopher Saint Catherine of Alexandria (Aikaterina), Constantine, Saint Helen, Saint Anastasia, and others as he seeks to rescue his best friend Saint Christopher (Menas - who was abducted at the end of Sword and Serpent Book 1).
Meanwhile, the Roman Emperor Diocletian is preparing to launch a fierce persecution against those that revere the King who loved them in hoc signum.
This book serves as a bridge in the sequence leading to the conversion of Constantine, the conversion of the Roman Empire, and ultimately to the Arthurian legend of Excalibur.
November 24, 2016
I thought that book one in this series the Sword and Serpent was an epic story. This book takes the tale to a whole new level. This book brings to life so many saints, holy men and women of the past in a gripping story that it is simply amazing. At the writing of this review I have read 232 books so far this year and have read almost 1800 books over the last ten years, and to be honest this is the best fiction story I can recall reading. In my review of book I - I stated: “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 I believe they would have loved this sequel and be eagerly awaiting book III.
Dr. Taylor Marshall writes in and around the lives of saints, drawing us back to a time when Christianity was a feared and persecuted religion. He has drawn extensively from historical sources and written this tale around truth, and around legends. He has woven together the stories of many well know saints and also a number of lesser known saints. The story focuses around Jurian (Saint George), and in this volume his trying to save his friend Minas (St. Christopher), but we also encounter Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Helena, and a young man who will eventually become Saint Augustine. This book continues directly from the first volume. Jurian is on a quest to rescue his friend, and has found favor with the Diocletian. He is trying to gain favor in the court so he can get freedom for Minas. But an old shadow from his past has reappeared and soon he is locked in a battle of the wills and wits with Casca. But both have found favor with the emperor and Jurian must be both cautious and brave.
The mix of myth, fantasy, and history blend incredibly well in this book. While reading it you feel transported back to the ancient Roman Empire and the story has staying power. I find myself reflecting on it often. The images will become imbedded in your heart and mind. The saints whose lives are portrayed will become inspiration for your heart. And the reverence with which the story is written will nourish your spirit. Few books that I read do an equally good job of feeding mind, body and spirit. This book however does. Tolkien when speaking about myth stated: “We have come from God, and inevitably the myths woven by us, though they contain error, will also reflect a splintered fragment of the true light, the eternal truth that is with God. Indeed only by myth-making, only by becoming 'sub-creator' and inventing stories, can Man aspire to the state of perfection that he knew before the Fall. Our myths may be misguided, but they steer however shakily towards the true harbour, while materialistic 'progress' leads only to a yawning abyss and the Iron Crown of the power of evil.” But Taylor Marshall has but his myths upon the truth from Christian traditions. Tolkien also said: ““After all, I believe that legends and myths are largely made of 'truth', and indeed present aspects of it that can only be received in this mode; and long ago certain truths and modes of this kind were discovered and must always reappear.” And as such Marshall reveals the truth through his mythic retelling of the story of Saint George.
As stated this book is the best of the last 1800 books I have read! It is wonderful. It will be appreciated by those who are into historical fiction. Buy those who are Christian or Catholic and want a real glimpse of what like would have been like prior to Christianity becoming an approved religion. It is an epic story and that really is the best kind!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Taylor R. Marshall.
(Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: A Year of Reading Intention - Catholic Reading!)
Dr. Taylor Marshall writes in and around the lives of saints, drawing us back to a time when Christianity was a feared and persecuted religion. He has drawn extensively from historical sources and written this tale around truth, and around legends. He has woven together the stories of many well know saints and also a number of lesser known saints. The story focuses around Jurian (Saint George), and in this volume his trying to save his friend Minas (St. Christopher), but we also encounter Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Helena, and a young man who will eventually become Saint Augustine. This book continues directly from the first volume. Jurian is on a quest to rescue his friend, and has found favor with the Diocletian. He is trying to gain favor in the court so he can get freedom for Minas. But an old shadow from his past has reappeared and soon he is locked in a battle of the wills and wits with Casca. But both have found favor with the emperor and Jurian must be both cautious and brave.
The mix of myth, fantasy, and history blend incredibly well in this book. While reading it you feel transported back to the ancient Roman Empire and the story has staying power. I find myself reflecting on it often. The images will become imbedded in your heart and mind. The saints whose lives are portrayed will become inspiration for your heart. And the reverence with which the story is written will nourish your spirit. Few books that I read do an equally good job of feeding mind, body and spirit. This book however does. Tolkien when speaking about myth stated: “We have come from God, and inevitably the myths woven by us, though they contain error, will also reflect a splintered fragment of the true light, the eternal truth that is with God. Indeed only by myth-making, only by becoming 'sub-creator' and inventing stories, can Man aspire to the state of perfection that he knew before the Fall. Our myths may be misguided, but they steer however shakily towards the true harbour, while materialistic 'progress' leads only to a yawning abyss and the Iron Crown of the power of evil.” But Taylor Marshall has but his myths upon the truth from Christian traditions. Tolkien also said: ““After all, I believe that legends and myths are largely made of 'truth', and indeed present aspects of it that can only be received in this mode; and long ago certain truths and modes of this kind were discovered and must always reappear.” And as such Marshall reveals the truth through his mythic retelling of the story of Saint George.
As stated this book is the best of the last 1800 books I have read! It is wonderful. It will be appreciated by those who are into historical fiction. Buy those who are Christian or Catholic and want a real glimpse of what like would have been like prior to Christianity becoming an approved religion. It is an epic story and that really is the best kind!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Taylor R. Marshall.
(Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: A Year of Reading Intention - Catholic Reading!)
March 23, 2024
A more than worthy sequel of an epic trilogy.
February 1, 2025
AAHHH! This was amazing!!
January 8, 2025
This book was SO good! Probably as good as the first, or better! The characters are varied and magnificent, and Marshall does a great job in portraying the saints as very normal — but holy — people with diverse and complicated personalities. This book was exciting the whole way through, and the writing is very good for a modern book. I especially LOVED Aikaterina (although I wish I hadn't been spoiled by a review halfway through, because I never even GUESSED that she was
November 23, 2016
I thought that book one in this series the Sword and Serpent was an epic story. This book takes the tale to a whole new level. This book brings to life so many saints, holy men and women of the past in a gripping story that it is simply amazing. At the writing of this review I have read 232 books so far this year and have read almost 1800 books over the last ten years, and to be honest this is the best fiction story I can recall reading. In my review of book I - I stated: “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 I believe they would have loved this sequel and be eagerly awaiting book III.
Dr. Taylor Marshall writes in and around the lives of saints, drawing us back to a time when Christianity was a feared and persecuted religion. He has drawn extensively from historical sources and written this tale around truth, and around legends. He has woven together the stories of many well know saints and also a number of lesser known saints. The story focuses around Jurian (Saint George), and in this volume his trying to save his friend Minas (St. Christopher), but we also encounter Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Helena, and a young man who will eventually become Saint Augustine. This book continues directly from the first volume. Jurian is on a quest to rescue his friend, and has found favor with the Diocletian. He is trying to gain favor in the court so he can get freedom for Minas. But an old shadow from his past has reappeared and soon he is locked in a battle of the wills and wits with Casca. But both have found favor with the emperor and Jurian must be both cautious and brave.
The mix of myth, fantasy, and history blend incredibly well in this book. While reading it you feel transported back to the ancient Roman Empire and the story has staying power. I find myself reflecting on it often. The images will become imbedded in your heart and mind. The saints whose lives are portrayed will become inspiration for your heart. And the reverence with which the story is written will nourish your spirit. Few books that I read do an equally good job of feeding mind, body and spirit. This book however does. Tolkien when speaking about myth stated: “We have come from God, and inevitably the myths woven by us, though they contain error, will also reflect a splintered fragment of the true light, the eternal truth that is with God. Indeed only by myth-making, only by becoming 'sub-creator' and inventing stories, can Man aspire to the state of perfection that he knew before the Fall. Our myths may be misguided, but they steer however shakily towards the true harbour, while materialistic 'progress' leads only to a yawning abyss and the Iron Crown of the power of evil.” But Taylor Marshall has but his myths upon the truth from Christian traditions. Tolkien also said: ““After all, I believe that legends and myths are largely made of 'truth', and indeed present aspects of it that can only be received in this mode; and long ago certain truths and modes of this kind were discovered and must always reappear.” And as such Marshall reveals the truth through his mythic retelling of the story of Saint George.
As stated this book is the best of the last 1800 books I have read! It is wonderful. It will be appreciated by those who are into historical fiction. Buy those who are Christian or Catholic and want a real glimpse of what like would have been like prior to Christianity becoming an approved religion. It is an epic story and that really is the best kind!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Taylor R. Marshall.
(Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: A Year of Reading Intention - Catholic Reading!)
Dr. Taylor Marshall writes in and around the lives of saints, drawing us back to a time when Christianity was a feared and persecuted religion. He has drawn extensively from historical sources and written this tale around truth, and around legends. He has woven together the stories of many well know saints and also a number of lesser known saints. The story focuses around Jurian (Saint George), and in this volume his trying to save his friend Minas (St. Christopher), but we also encounter Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Helena, and a young man who will eventually become Saint Augustine. This book continues directly from the first volume. Jurian is on a quest to rescue his friend, and has found favor with the Diocletian. He is trying to gain favor in the court so he can get freedom for Minas. But an old shadow from his past has reappeared and soon he is locked in a battle of the wills and wits with Casca. But both have found favor with the emperor and Jurian must be both cautious and brave.
The mix of myth, fantasy, and history blend incredibly well in this book. While reading it you feel transported back to the ancient Roman Empire and the story has staying power. I find myself reflecting on it often. The images will become imbedded in your heart and mind. The saints whose lives are portrayed will become inspiration for your heart. And the reverence with which the story is written will nourish your spirit. Few books that I read do an equally good job of feeding mind, body and spirit. This book however does. Tolkien when speaking about myth stated: “We have come from God, and inevitably the myths woven by us, though they contain error, will also reflect a splintered fragment of the true light, the eternal truth that is with God. Indeed only by myth-making, only by becoming 'sub-creator' and inventing stories, can Man aspire to the state of perfection that he knew before the Fall. Our myths may be misguided, but they steer however shakily towards the true harbour, while materialistic 'progress' leads only to a yawning abyss and the Iron Crown of the power of evil.” But Taylor Marshall has but his myths upon the truth from Christian traditions. Tolkien also said: ““After all, I believe that legends and myths are largely made of 'truth', and indeed present aspects of it that can only be received in this mode; and long ago certain truths and modes of this kind were discovered and must always reappear.” And as such Marshall reveals the truth through his mythic retelling of the story of Saint George.
As stated this book is the best of the last 1800 books I have read! It is wonderful. It will be appreciated by those who are into historical fiction. Buy those who are Christian or Catholic and want a real glimpse of what like would have been like prior to Christianity becoming an approved religion. It is an epic story and that really is the best kind!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Taylor R. Marshall.
(Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: A Year of Reading Intention - Catholic Reading!)
November 24, 2016
I can think of this 2nd part as my delayed birthday present. It was fantastic and much awaited adventure. A good part was read while going to work and it was amazing how a good adventure can transport you in space and time to the point where you can almost see the characters in front of you. And that's when I know I'm enjoying the book a lot. It's remarkable how Dr. Marshall manages to bring a human side to Diocletian and even the reflection Kat had towards the despicable Casca, about him not doing evil just for the sake of it, but because there was some grief in this person.
Now I'm left wanting more, what a dilema.
Now I'm left wanting more, what a dilema.
March 15, 2022
After sweeping through book 1 and eagerly buying book 2, I had a hard time staying focused on this volume for many months, and then would forget some of the characters. Determined to finally finish, I did get to a point where I was gripped with the details as the climax of the story was building in Nicomedia and Rome, and was not disappointed. The characters, especially Aikaterina and Sabra, are built up as you see them growing in Faith. Georgius/Jurian did not disappoint us. What I especially loved was the character of Constantinus, son of Helena (hopefully you recognize those names!), and how his sympathy toward the Christians was growing, so that the ending was excellent and made sense. Although this is a work of fiction, I had to go check the dates of the historical figures, and realized they were living around these times, and then you think this could almost all be believable facts!
Before I forget the plethora of characters, I want to get Book 3 and continue the story.
If you are like me and can’t get past the chapters of slow travel months, push through to the end. You won’t be disappointed.
Before I forget the plethora of characters, I want to get Book 3 and continue the story.
If you are like me and can’t get past the chapters of slow travel months, push through to the end. You won’t be disappointed.
January 28, 2025
Better than the first one!
Still a bit cheesy/corny and lacking in plot clarity, but I think Marshall definitely found his way by the second half. The first half was a bit of a bore honestly, but the second half was great.
I realized that most Christian writers are likely people with great stories burning in their hearts but... little to no experience penning them down haha. There are a multitude of things I could critique writing wise, but I am going to overlook them for the sake of my review, and due to the fact that I was hooked enough by the end of this book to want to buy the third and final in the series.
Still a bit cheesy/corny and lacking in plot clarity, but I think Marshall definitely found his way by the second half. The first half was a bit of a bore honestly, but the second half was great.
I realized that most Christian writers are likely people with great stories burning in their hearts but... little to no experience penning them down haha. There are a multitude of things I could critique writing wise, but I am going to overlook them for the sake of my review, and due to the fact that I was hooked enough by the end of this book to want to buy the third and final in the series.
December 4, 2016
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for writing an honest review of it. Below is the review I have already published on amazon.com for this novel (with a few minor stylistic edits):
What do Duran Duran's "Rio," Dave Matthews Band's "Crash" and Taylor Marshall's The Tenth Region of the Night all have in common? They are all examples of that all too rare occurrence: sophomore offerings which ended up surpassing a very strong debut of the artist in question.
The Tenth Region of the Night is the second installment of Marshall's historical fiction account of the life and adventures of St. George (he of dragon slaying fame). While The Sword and the Serpent (the first book in the series) was a strong initial outing from an author who had not penned a novel before the second installment proves that Marshall has not rested on his laurels and has improved as a story teller. The book has all of the strengths of the previous volume such as believable characters, well written prose, and a grasp of the historical and cultural milieu that makes it feel as if you're walking the streets of Rome, Nicomedia, and Alexandria yourself. Additionally, Marshall adds enough twists, turns, and political intrigue to rival George R. R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series or Frank Herbert's "Dune" series.
Some people may be turned off by the fact that Marshall's work unapologetically treats religion as a serious matter (more than one character in the book was, after all, recognized as a canonized saint after their death). This would be unfortunate, however, as the author deftly shows that saints are living, breathing, people who do not have less struggles than the "typical" person (if such a creature can even be said to exist) but are rather people who face life with an immense amount of hope, trust, and love. As the narrative shows, this means anything but an escape from sufferings of life.
Many favorites from the first book reappear here, such as Menas (St. Christopher) and Sabra, as well as new characters that soon become welcome additions to "old friends," including Aikaterina (St. Catherine of Alexandria), Helena of Constantinople, and, yes, Diocletian.
Perhaps the best that can be said about Dr. Marshall's second offering is that several times while reading his book I thought to myself, "Yes, that could have been what happened." High praise for anyone writing historical fiction. A high bar has been set for future books in the series.
What do Duran Duran's "Rio," Dave Matthews Band's "Crash" and Taylor Marshall's The Tenth Region of the Night all have in common? They are all examples of that all too rare occurrence: sophomore offerings which ended up surpassing a very strong debut of the artist in question.
The Tenth Region of the Night is the second installment of Marshall's historical fiction account of the life and adventures of St. George (he of dragon slaying fame). While The Sword and the Serpent (the first book in the series) was a strong initial outing from an author who had not penned a novel before the second installment proves that Marshall has not rested on his laurels and has improved as a story teller. The book has all of the strengths of the previous volume such as believable characters, well written prose, and a grasp of the historical and cultural milieu that makes it feel as if you're walking the streets of Rome, Nicomedia, and Alexandria yourself. Additionally, Marshall adds enough twists, turns, and political intrigue to rival George R. R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series or Frank Herbert's "Dune" series.
Some people may be turned off by the fact that Marshall's work unapologetically treats religion as a serious matter (more than one character in the book was, after all, recognized as a canonized saint after their death). This would be unfortunate, however, as the author deftly shows that saints are living, breathing, people who do not have less struggles than the "typical" person (if such a creature can even be said to exist) but are rather people who face life with an immense amount of hope, trust, and love. As the narrative shows, this means anything but an escape from sufferings of life.
Many favorites from the first book reappear here, such as Menas (St. Christopher) and Sabra, as well as new characters that soon become welcome additions to "old friends," including Aikaterina (St. Catherine of Alexandria), Helena of Constantinople, and, yes, Diocletian.
Perhaps the best that can be said about Dr. Marshall's second offering is that several times while reading his book I thought to myself, "Yes, that could have been what happened." High praise for anyone writing historical fiction. A high bar has been set for future books in the series.
Want to read
May 14, 2021The Tenth Region of the night, the sequel to Sword and Serpent and second book of a trilogy, follows Jurian (St. George) into the city of Rome and the imperial court. His grand adventures test
his faith, challenging him to outwit the powers around him while staying true to himself.
Jurian has set out on a quest to save Menas (St. Christopher), who was taken prisoner by the Romans. Jurian leaves Cyrene, meeting along the way St. Synkletika of Alexandria, and Aikaterina (St. Katherine), the daughter of the governor. With their help, Jurian travels to Rome where he is noticed by the Emperor Diocletian and the tribune Constantinus (St. Constantine). Jurian’s reputation has preceded him and he becomes a celebrity of sorts for killing the “dragon” in Cyrene.
“Maybe you’ve convinced the rest of the world that you killed a…dragon. But that doesn’t change that you’ve never held a sword against another man in your life. What will you do when the eyes you look into before you give the killing blow aren’t a monster’s, but a man’s?” Jurian let out his breath, very slowly, as he tried to temper a surge of rage and grief. “Respectfully, sir, you don’t know what I’ve done,” he said.
Through his skill and strength of character, Jurian quickly becomes a tribune and an advisor to Diocletian. His ethics and wit are continually tested. Jurian’s arch-enemy has schemed his way into a tribune’s position himself, advising Diocletian on how best to stamp out the new Christian faith, all the while plotting Jurian’s downfall. In Jurian’s own complex plotting to free Menas, his other
friends are put in danger and all seems lost.
Did they know? Had someone discovered their plan? Had Casca? The nightmare that ran constantly through his mind was showing up at the Judus only to find Casca there with Caesar Galerius and all the guards at the ready, waiting to arrest them. He shook his head and forced the thought from his mind. If he let himself dwell on it too long, he would never find the focus he needed.
But then…!
This book is filled with excitement and surprises at every page! I would highly recommend it to all ages because, although it is historical fiction, it sets forth the personalities that the saints could have had, making them seem more identifiably human and approachable. The book’s ending is dramatic and shows the self-sacrifice sometimes needed to defend your friends. To give away anything else
would not be fair to the reader!
his faith, challenging him to outwit the powers around him while staying true to himself.
Jurian has set out on a quest to save Menas (St. Christopher), who was taken prisoner by the Romans. Jurian leaves Cyrene, meeting along the way St. Synkletika of Alexandria, and Aikaterina (St. Katherine), the daughter of the governor. With their help, Jurian travels to Rome where he is noticed by the Emperor Diocletian and the tribune Constantinus (St. Constantine). Jurian’s reputation has preceded him and he becomes a celebrity of sorts for killing the “dragon” in Cyrene.
“Maybe you’ve convinced the rest of the world that you killed a…dragon. But that doesn’t change that you’ve never held a sword against another man in your life. What will you do when the eyes you look into before you give the killing blow aren’t a monster’s, but a man’s?” Jurian let out his breath, very slowly, as he tried to temper a surge of rage and grief. “Respectfully, sir, you don’t know what I’ve done,” he said.
Through his skill and strength of character, Jurian quickly becomes a tribune and an advisor to Diocletian. His ethics and wit are continually tested. Jurian’s arch-enemy has schemed his way into a tribune’s position himself, advising Diocletian on how best to stamp out the new Christian faith, all the while plotting Jurian’s downfall. In Jurian’s own complex plotting to free Menas, his other
friends are put in danger and all seems lost.
Did they know? Had someone discovered their plan? Had Casca? The nightmare that ran constantly through his mind was showing up at the Judus only to find Casca there with Caesar Galerius and all the guards at the ready, waiting to arrest them. He shook his head and forced the thought from his mind. If he let himself dwell on it too long, he would never find the focus he needed.
But then…!
This book is filled with excitement and surprises at every page! I would highly recommend it to all ages because, although it is historical fiction, it sets forth the personalities that the saints could have had, making them seem more identifiably human and approachable. The book’s ending is dramatic and shows the self-sacrifice sometimes needed to defend your friends. To give away anything else
would not be fair to the reader!
November 24, 2016
Far from falling in a sophomore slump, Taylor Marshall delivers a great sequel to "Sword and Serpent". Without reinventing it, the author demonstrates a growing command of the epic genre in his second novel. This volume relies less heavily on narrative devices such as prophecies, visions, providential coincidences, or benevolent saints with the apparent gift of bilocation to move the story forward. "The Tenth Region of the Night"'s narrative is robust, without turning its back on the mystical and theological underpinnings of the hero's main quest. The characters are well developed iterations of the archetypal protagonists, with the return of Jurian, Sabra, Menas, Diocletian, and Casca and the addition of Aikaterina, Constatinus, Agapius and others. The author does a great job at making them feel contemporary despite the story taking place in a time and place that is foreign to many readers. The dialogues are well written and the book keeps the reader engaged with a good balance of intrigue, combat action, and insight in the characters' inner struggles, loves, and aspirations. I would highly recommend reading the first volume before diving in to this one. These books are a great read and I am looking forward to the third volume!
May 25, 2020
Another wonderful, wonderful book by Mr. Marshall!
The pace of this one is slower than 'Sword and Serpent', which means we get to see so much more character development - and what characters! They spring out of the pages and surround you, vivid living people. I've never related to any character as much as to Aikaterina! (Though, having had a friendly acquaintance with St. Catherine of Alexandria for a long time, this book has encouraged me to get to know her better in real life)
The action writing too is sparkling, and that lovely 'Aha!' moment at the end when all the scheming is revealed... (admittedly I was as mislead as Casca for a long time!)
Every book in this trilogy helps my Faith along in some way. If the first strengthened my resolution to live it courageously, this book has made me determined to study and share it.
Roll on book three!
The pace of this one is slower than 'Sword and Serpent', which means we get to see so much more character development - and what characters! They spring out of the pages and surround you, vivid living people. I've never related to any character as much as to Aikaterina! (Though, having had a friendly acquaintance with St. Catherine of Alexandria for a long time, this book has encouraged me to get to know her better in real life)
The action writing too is sparkling, and that lovely 'Aha!' moment at the end when all the scheming is revealed... (admittedly I was as mislead as Casca for a long time!)
Every book in this trilogy helps my Faith along in some way. If the first strengthened my resolution to live it courageously, this book has made me determined to study and share it.
Roll on book three!
August 23, 2018
I read this book along with my 12-year-old and really enjoyed it. The whole series is an imaginative retelling of the St. George story, weaving in other contemporary saints and events along the way. It has bolstered my understanding of the early Christian era and given me much to think about in terms of what the Roman persecutions must have looked like. This second book in the series expands to include more characters as well, and brings in palace intrigue in the Court of Diocletian. Highly recommended!
December 8, 2023
A thrilling read!
My teenagers read this (as well as the other books in the trilogy) and highly recommended that I read them too. I loved Sword and Serpent, and this was just as exciting. I loved the development of the characters we had met in the first novel, as well as the new characters, and the twists of the plot made it hard to put down. I laughed, I cried, I got so angry at Casca's schemes. I can't wait to start the next book, and I've already purchased Nikolaus.
My teenagers read this (as well as the other books in the trilogy) and highly recommended that I read them too. I loved Sword and Serpent, and this was just as exciting. I loved the development of the characters we had met in the first novel, as well as the new characters, and the twists of the plot made it hard to put down. I laughed, I cried, I got so angry at Casca's schemes. I can't wait to start the next book, and I've already purchased Nikolaus.
May 27, 2019
I stayed up last night until 11 to finish this book, and then stayed up another half hour trying to calm back down. It felt good to be so irresponsible, great adventure story with lots of intrigue and doublecrossing. Characters are a little bit two dimensional but still very enjoyable. The best part is there’s a third book in the trilogy so I can do the same thing again tonight.
January 11, 2018
3rd book on early Christian persecution with some saints mixed into the story. Journey of a young man who becomes known as St. George the dragon slayer. In a time where Christians had to hide their faith but when found out they did not back down and became martyrs.
August 29, 2018
Loved this book.
Engrossing in many ways. The understanding of the Roman Empire and its leaders was new to me. One can now compare the great Roman Empire to today and the struggle for supremacy by the USA and other nations.
Engrossing in many ways. The understanding of the Roman Empire and its leaders was new to me. One can now compare the great Roman Empire to today and the struggle for supremacy by the USA and other nations.
May 22, 2017
I feel like I'm watching a movie whilst reading. Also (I just need to say it!), this series needs to be made into a movie. 😉
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2018
Surpasses the First Volume
Well written and suspenseful...I am really looking forward to the third volume, when the hero makes it, finally, to Britannia, with his sword, Excalibur.
Well written and suspenseful...I am really looking forward to the third volume, when the hero makes it, finally, to Britannia, with his sword, Excalibur.
October 2, 2017
An outstanding sequel to Sword and Serpent I! I enjoyed every single moment of it! Cant' wait till the third and final one comes out later this year!
September 6, 2019
Fun to read
This book was fun to read and kept me turning the pages. However, it’s only okay writing like most middle grade novels.
This book was fun to read and kept me turning the pages. However, it’s only okay writing like most middle grade novels.
December 18, 2020
Great book for Catholics and Christians who are interested in the true stories of the early church. This historical fiction is book 2 of a trilogy about St. George.
Read
April 7, 2021This book was amazing, it was so good to read and I definitely recommend it!
February 11, 2022
Perfect!
March 26, 2023
Second in the series
Just as in the first, I've been held captive by the storyline. Have to go on to the third, without delay.
Just as in the first, I've been held captive by the storyline. Have to go on to the third, without delay.
July 22, 2025
Audiobook. Continued a great narration by Kennedy Hall. engaging story line and characters.
March 23, 2020
A great follow up of the first book.
I read it in no time and I’m now totally hocked for the last book.
I read it in no time and I’m now totally hocked for the last book.
November 28, 2016
This book is Dr. Marshall's sequel to "Sword and Serpent". Once again, Taylor has written an excellent novel with a great blending of fact, legend, and fiction. The new story stands on its own, but is even better if you have read the first book in the series. I also highly recommend "Sword and Serpent"!
In "The Tenth Region of the Night" he continues the story where the previous one left off. After defeating the dragon (Devil) in Cyrene in the first book, now Jurian (St. George) is on his way back to Rome to find his best friend Menas (St. Christopher) who was taken prisoner. His adventures on the way are captured in wonderful style by Taylor. Once in Rome, Jurian rises in the court of the Emperor Diocletian, as does his enemy, Casca. What happens between the old enemies? Does Jurian ever rescue Menas? Does the story end here in Rome? A must read!
Although a story, the book is truely Christian in nature. The reader is led on a tour of the Fourth Century Christian struggles amidst the intense persecution of the times. Woven into the tale are great elements of true friendship, self sacrifice, and enduring Christian love. Many lessons are learned for our own lives in the here and now. A truely inspirational take away that will help you think and grow. Here is a wonderful portrayal of some truely saintly lives spun into a very interesting and captivating story.
I highly anticipate the third installment. Since Jurian is carrying the sword Excalibur, I am very excited to see if he meets King Arthur in book three. Will he? How will this tale conclude?
Get this book, become engrossed in the characters and their intertwining story. Enjoy the read and become moved in your own life on how to become a better, happier, and more loving person. Emulate the Saints!
In "The Tenth Region of the Night" he continues the story where the previous one left off. After defeating the dragon (Devil) in Cyrene in the first book, now Jurian (St. George) is on his way back to Rome to find his best friend Menas (St. Christopher) who was taken prisoner. His adventures on the way are captured in wonderful style by Taylor. Once in Rome, Jurian rises in the court of the Emperor Diocletian, as does his enemy, Casca. What happens between the old enemies? Does Jurian ever rescue Menas? Does the story end here in Rome? A must read!
Although a story, the book is truely Christian in nature. The reader is led on a tour of the Fourth Century Christian struggles amidst the intense persecution of the times. Woven into the tale are great elements of true friendship, self sacrifice, and enduring Christian love. Many lessons are learned for our own lives in the here and now. A truely inspirational take away that will help you think and grow. Here is a wonderful portrayal of some truely saintly lives spun into a very interesting and captivating story.
I highly anticipate the third installment. Since Jurian is carrying the sword Excalibur, I am very excited to see if he meets King Arthur in book three. Will he? How will this tale conclude?
Get this book, become engrossed in the characters and their intertwining story. Enjoy the read and become moved in your own life on how to become a better, happier, and more loving person. Emulate the Saints!
July 4, 2018
Excellent book! I loved everything about this book! The plot was riveting and kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put the book down. The characters are so believable and realistic. I love the Latin scattered throughout. It only makes the book even more realistic. I thoroughly enjoy the historical aspect of it and I have gained a lot of perspective into that time period reading what actual people may have experienced. Love the Catholic history part of it too!
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