The Oath

by A.M. Linden

When the last of members of a secretive Druid cult are forced to abandon their hidden sanctuary, they send the youngest of their remaining priests in search of Annwr, their chief priestess's sister, who was abducted by a Saxon war band fifteen years ago. With only a rudimentary grasp of English and the ambiguous guidance of an oracle's prophecy, Caelym manages to find Annwr living in a hut on the grounds of a Christian convent.

Annwr has spent her years of captivity caring for the timid Aleswina, an orphaned Saxon princess who was consigned to the cloistered convent by her cousin, King Gilberth, after he assumed her father's throne. Just as Caelym and Annwr are about leave together, Aleswina learns that Gilberth, a tyrant known for his cruelty and vicious temper, means to take her out of the convent and marry her. Terrified, she flees with the two Druids--beginning a heart-pounding adventure that unfolds in ways none of them could have anticipated.

Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, British Literature, Historical Fantasy

336 pages, Paperback

Published June 15, 2021

About the author

Ann Margaret Linden was born in Seattle, Washington but grew up on the east coast, returning to the Pacific Northwest as a young adult. She has undergraduate degrees in anthropology and in nursing and a master’s degree as a nurse practitioner. After working in a variety of acute care and community health settings, she took a position in a program for children with special health care needs where her responsibilities included writing clinical reports, parent educational materials, provider newsletters, grant submissions and other program related materials. In a somewhat whimsical decision to write something for fun, she began what was to be tongue-in-cheek historical murder mystery involving Druids and early medieval Christians. It wasn’t meant to be long or involved, but the characters kept getting into trouble and she had to keep writing to find out what happened to them. After a lengthy journey of her own that included taking adult education creative writing courses, researching early British history, and traveling to England, Scotland, and Wales, the first book of The Druid Chronicles, a five volume quasi-historical fiction series, is scheduled for publication by She Writes Press in June 2021.

Reviews

[Rajiv · Rating 4 out of 5]

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“The Oath” is a beautiful historical adventure novel revolving around Druids and Christians, and I liked reading it!

The story picks up wonderfully, especially once our three main protagonists embark on their journey. It was interesting to see the dynamics between the three characters and how my mood changed as they spent time together. Some of my memorable scenes are when they disguise themselves and go after Benyon.

Also, each of the three characters brought a fresh perspective to the story. I liked Annwr for her wisdom and was fascinated with her past. However, I had mixed feelings about Caelym. At times I felt sorry for him as he was also on a mission to find his sons, Lliem and Arddwn. However, I wouldn’t say I liked the way he treated Aleswina. Speaking of Aleswina, she was my favorite! I adored her from the first page and loved her sense of innocence and positivity. You immediately want to reach out, hug her and protect her whenever she appears on the page.

Moreover, I also liked characters like Gilberth and Durthena. However, they only appeared briefly, and I wished they were prominent. Durthena was particularly entertaining with how she tries to bring Aleswina down by complaining to Hildegarth, and I was curious about Gilberth’s dreams.

The author also includes exciting stories within the plot that was fun to read. I particularly liked the tale Caelym tells LLiem and Arddwn about Trystwm and Bervin, and the story about the wolves. The book ends in a bittersweet manner as you grow to love these characters and wish you can spend more time with them.

Overall, I enjoyed reading “The Oath” and eager to see how the story continues!

[Linnea Tanner · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Oath by A. M. Linden is Book 1 in the medieval historical fiction series, The Druid Chronicles, set in the backdrop of AD 788 Britain. The prologue provides the background to a minor monarchy in the Kingdom of Derthwald for which there is only one obscure reference for its existence in surviving documents at the time. King Theobald, a former commander of a Saxon army, is rewarded with the Kingdom of Derthwald for his successful siege of the last Celtic stronghold in the area below the mountains. When King Theobold dies, his nephew Gilberth becomes the king, and his four-year-old daughter, Aleswina, becomes a novice at the Abbey of Saint Edeth the Enduring in Derthwald.

The story begins fifteen years later, when Druids are forced to abandon their hidden sanctuary. They charge Caelym, a young priest, to find Annwr, the sister of the supreme priestess. Annwr was abducted fifteen years prior by a Saxon war band. Caelym discovers Annwr on the grounds of a convent, where she is the nurse to Aleswina. When King Gilberth’s men come to abduct Aleswina to marry him against her will, she joins Annwr and Caelym to escape her fate. The trio venture on a harrowing adventure into unknown territory to find Caelym's two sons, to find a safe place for Aleswina, and finally to connect with the remaining Druids en route to their new homeland.

Author Linden uses the perspectives of several characters to convey the story. The tale is most engaging in the first half of the book when Caelym, Annwr, and Aleswina verbally spar with each other over decisions they must make before and during their escape. Their conflicts are often due to their stereotypical perspectives of each other as either Christian or pagan. Some of their arguments are humorous and made me chuckle. By the end of the book, the trio ultimately accepts each other, with Aleswina changing most dramatically from a naive to an independent woman who learns to depend upon herself.

One of the most interesting aspects of the story is the contrast between the religious beliefs of Druids and Christians. Christians consider Druids to be in league with the devil and their healers to be witches who brew poisons. Though little is known about the rituals of Druids, the author does an admirable job of portraying their religious beliefs as well as daily life in the Christian abbey. For the most part, the story is fast-paced but fizzles toward a non-climatic ending when Caelym strives to find his two sons.

For readers interested in the medieval history of Britain and the contrasting cultures of native Britons and Christian Saxons, The Oath will immerse you in a period for which there are few written records.

[Janelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I tend to read a lot of historical fiction, I rarely delve into the Dark Ages and it was nice to read about a different time period. This book follows a Druid Priest in search of a once-thought dead Druid Priestess who has spent over a decade taking care of a Saxon Princess.

Caelym sets out to “rescue” Annwr, but she is hesitant to leave the life she has rightfully and painstakingly earned and go back to a life she barely remembers. Plus she has grown fond of Aleswina, even though their religious beliefs are at odds with each other and debates not returning “home”. But Aleswina makes a rash decision to avoid a life that scares her, leading her to run from everything she has known.

The story was slow-going at first, but the character and story building was done really well and I enjoyed unwrapping these characters & their motivations piece by piece. This book puts its characters on a collision course of cultures and gives a brief look at Druid persecution by followers of Christianity during the 8th century. All three characters are struggling with the path they expected their lives to follow versus the path they are now following.

Thanks to @shewritespress & @hfvbt for the gifted copy.

[Lauralee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Oath is the first installment of a five novel series set during Britain’s Dark Ages. It tells the story of two druids and a Christian. Annwr is the chief priestess’s sister who was abducted by Saxons fifteen years ago. Caelym is a priest who is sent to rescue her. Before they leave to go back to their kingdom, they are joined by a Saxon princess named Aleswina, who is desperate to escape a horrible suitor. The three of them embark on a dangerous mission that none of them could have anticipated.

The three main characters are Annwr, Caelym, and Aleswina. Each of these characters are very complex and are fully fleshed out characters. Annwr and Caelym have very tragic backgrounds. My heart ached for them through their pain. I thought that Annwr was a very capable and strong woman. She was very wise. I thought of her as a survivor who endured a lot of pain. Caelym had a lot of grief. Two of his sons were taken by the Saxsons and their whereabouts are unknown. Therefore, Caelym has a strong determination to find his missing sons. He was the most sympathetic of the three characters, and I kept hoping he would find them. Aleswina is probably the most fascinating and developed character in the novel. She starts off as a damsel in distress, but later grows stronger over time. Thus, all three of the main characters were very compelling.

Overall, this novel is about loss, prejudices, and religion. All the other supporting characters were developed well. The story does start slowly but later on it picks up speed. I was disappointed with the ending because there were some loose ends. Still, this was mostly a journey story that had a touch of intrigue and mystery. I also thought Ms. Linden did an excellent job in depicting Britain's turbulent Dark Ages. I like how she discussed the religious conflict of the era. Thus, this novel was meticulously researched and the writing was lush and evocative. The Oath is an exceptional start to a promising series! I recommend this novel for fans of Signe Pike, Melanie Karsak, and Nicole Evelina!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)

[Electra Nanou · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Oath is historical fiction at its best. It brings the British Dark Ages and the true magic of the druids to life with a story rich in personality, spirituality, folklore, wisdom, and more. Minor flaws aside, this is a book worth diving into and a series I’m very ready to fall in love with.

[Joan Hood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy which quickly grabbed my attention and caught me up in a heroines’ (and hero’s) journey through mysterious and sometimes frightening landscapes. Gradually I got to know the Druid priestess, priest, and Saxon princess while they learn about each other – facing danger on their own and as a group. These characters and situations stayed with me for a long time as I’d periodically wonder what happened next to Annwr, Caelym and Aleswina.

[Kate Eminhizer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a richly described journey that will enthrall readers. While it starts off slowly, the author quickly develops the main characters and provides the context for the underlying story. This is a story of a clash of cultures at its best. The Druid Caelym is attempting to succeed in his mission to "rescue" Annwr and his children. The Druid priestess/Saxon slave/nursemaid Annwr struggles with her memories of the life she was ripped away from compared to the simplistic life she currently has. Aleswina the Christian novice grapples with the knowledge of Annwr's past, life outside the convent, and all that Caelym exposes her to. The ever present threat of politics looms over the trio as they seek safety.
The author skillfully wove Druid traditions into the character development of both Caelym and Annwr. There is also a glimpse as to the persecution of the Druid way of life by their Christian counterparts. The continuing travels of the companions prove to be fodder for some epic storytelling in the future installments of this series.
I received an advanced copy of this title via the publisher.

[Jackie Martuscelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a review of a Netgalley ARC.
Overall, this book was pretty good! It was a bit slow for me but I enjoyed the story. My favorite character is probably Annwr, she's sweet and caring but can be stern when needed.
The ending seemed a bit sudden to me, like there maybe could have been more. But with this being the first book in a series, I cant wait to see where it goes!

[Michelle Fritz PA · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an imaginative book! It's filled with Druid and Saxon wisdom and hilarious characters. This is historical fiction that keeps you riveted to its pages. The British Dark Ages are a very dangerous and intriguingly irresistible time.

Our priest is very funny with his inner thoughts and mannerisms. His ideas kept me throughly entertained. I wanted to cheer him on in. I absolutely enjoyed him. I laughed aloud at his antics.

Our princess was sweet and dutiful. She didn't want a forced marriage and so she turned to her servant for help. They embark upon a perilous journey. Watching these two make their way was also very amusing in how they dealt with situations.

This is a slower paced book but it makes up for that with the inner musings and ideas of its characters. If you want a book that will make you think as it entertains you, this is it!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Oath by A.M. Linden is an intriguing historical fiction that brings us back to the Dark Ages in Brittish history. Filled with secrets, danger, and mystery, this was a really intriguing read.

I love the characters. Especially the internal diaglogue that brought some humor into the mix.

This is not a super fast-paced read, but it still kept my interest. This is one that will make you think and keep you invested. Check it out!

Thank you to Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for the review copy and the opportunity to honestly review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.

[Beatrice Rivers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many years ago, Annwr, the sister of a Druid cult’s chief priestess was kidnapped by Saxons. And yet, the prophecy of an oracle says that Annwr still lives, and Caelym, a young druid priest, is sent to find her, and bring her home.

What Caelym doesn’t expect is that Annwr might be reluctant to return to a life she hasn’t lived for years. Annwr was given the role of caring for the orphaned Saxon princess, Aleswina, and Aleswina has become like a daughter to Annwr. Aleswina is in a convent, with Annwr living nearby, and Annwr does not know if she can simply leave Aleswina and go home.

However, there is no need for Annwr to do any decision-making, for Aleswina makes the choice for her. Aleswina finds out that her cousin, a simply dreadful man, plans to marry her, and she will not stand by and let that happen. The Saxon princess joins the two Druids, and they flee together.

This book does start out a little slow, and I found my attention starting to wane a little in the first few chapters. When the story really got started, though, once the three characters start on their journey, I found I couldn’t put the book down. It did take a little while, but once I got into it, I was hooked. I read the entire book in a day.

My absolute favourite character had to be Caelym. He is on a mission, not only to find Annwr, but also to find his two young sons. He is certainly determined, and nothing will stop him. Caelym’s inner monologue is hilarious to read, for he is incredibly sarcastic. Annwr is equally sarcastic, and their conversations were enough to make me laugh out loud as I read. Caelym is always doing what he can to help, and gain some praise, and Annwr is incredibly reluctant to give it to him, always managing to see the things he does as attention-seeking, rather than helpful. Together, they make a very humorous pair.

Aleswina is set a little behind Caelym and Annwr. She is not in the spotlight so much, but she is also completely out of her comfort zone. She is a Saxon princess, and yet, she is living on the run with two Druids, who have different customs, and know how to survive in the wild. She is completely dependent on them to keep her safe. And yet, Aleswina is an incredibly loving and kind person, who would do almost anything to keep Annwr safe, although she would be, perhaps, a little more hesitant over what she would do to keep Caelym safe – they do not exactly have the most conventional way of getting to know each other!

The historical detailing of this novel is fabulous. The author has done an excellent job in making you feel like you are traipsing through the woods with the characters, and listening to Caelym and Annwr bicker. I don’t think that I’ve read many books starring druid priests before, and I certainly do not know much about their culture. I know decidedly more about Aleswina’s religion, and I almost felt like I was by her side, slowly learning as she learnt.

The characters’ backstories are revealed slowly, with information coming to light as and when it is required. This was an excellent way to do this, for not knowing everything definitely keeps you invested in the story, and there is no information dump to bore you. Instead, you are kept desperate for more snippets of, in particular, Caelym’s past, and what happened between Annwr being abducted, and Caelym coming to find her.

This is the kind of book you are not sure you need in your life until you read it. Caelym quickly became a favourite character, and I simply adored the humorous thoughts and conversations. If you are interested in this era, or want a book you can really get invested in, this is the one you need.

[Cathie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Oath begins a little like a ’Once upon a time’ fairy tale, telling us about a great king and his young wife. When he is ambushed and killed, his wife dies in childbirth – and his nephew Gilberth is at hand to take over the reins. Convenient. Intrigue, much! Right from the start.

Young Caelym was sent by his High Priestess to find her long-lost sister, Annwr, who'd been taken by Saxon warriors fifteen years earlier. It takes him a long time to locate her, until he does so – with an arrow in his back. Hunted by Christians as a heathen, he is barely alive when he barges into her calm existence.

But his arrival triggers a series of events that none of them could have foreseen. Annwr had been nursemaid to the late King Theobold's only surviving daughter, Aleswina, who was put into the convent on Gilberth's orders. Headstrong and wilful, the young woman is everything a good nun should not be, and others are out to get her ousted. The women have hidden Annwr's true leanings – she is a Druidic healer, and not of the Christian faith, and she lives quietly in an idyllic cottage in the convent grounds.

Caelym's arrival sees Saxon warriors search the era, and now Annwr finds herself in danger. As his healing from his arrow wound progresses, the enemies close in. Aleswina hides him in the cave of a shrine, but Annwr is not so fortunate. As the Saxons search her home, and she kneels quietly clutching a cross, they destroy her belongings and kill her beloved animals.

I must admit that, as a reader of historical fiction, I'm used to violence against other humans, but the mindless killing of geese and a pregnant sow, however fictional, got to me. I can well visualise Annwr's feelings.

The old woman agrees to come with Caelym, as he was instructed, but Aleswina should remain behind. Then the girl overhears one of her uncle's henchmen speak with the Mother Superior. We suspect his previous wives were all done away with (cleverly portrayed in prayer for their souls) in a way that makes Henry VIII look benign, so Aleswina is not keen on it. She joins Caelym and Annwr in their flight, as she does not wish to wed her brutal uncle.

But their journey is perilous, nearly leaving them drowning, and always in danger of attacks. Caelym and Aleswina squabble throughout, and poor Annwr has to keep the peace. I'll be interested to see how the journey of those two develops over the series,

The style is very much in the storytelling realm; highly visual, well fleshed out. Caelym is an arrogant little sod (pardon the language) and Annwr likes to put him in his place. The older woman is wise. She's seen it all. Now she's about to learn she may have to give up the daughter left behind all over again.

And Aleswina is a spoilt young woman. Protected by her closeness to Gilberth, she was allowed freedoms other nuns were not. But now that she's on the run, fearing for her life, she is in shock. Her portrayal is realistic, in that she doesn't overnight turn into a tough maiden. She's fragile, yet determined.

The Oath is a vivid, beautifully told tale of necessity and forged friendships. Three very different characters were thrown together, and slowly a bond develops. But still, each stays true to themselves, creating wonderful conflict.

I'm looking forward to the next title in the series. Highly recommended.

[Jeffra Flaitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found the novel The Oath to be a satisfying departure from my usual reading fare, namely contemporary fiction that grapples with the human condition and dishes out social commentary. However, this work of historical fiction featuring Druids and healers and princesses expanded my reading world. Thank you, author A.M. Linden! Several aspects of the novel won me over.

The pace of the narrative, for one, was steady and bright. The author tells a good story, beckoning the reader on through an ever more escalating series of events that make putting the book down a challenge. In addition, Linden’s ability to lushly describe the setting without getting bogged down in minutia added to the novel’s appeal, particularly on the sensory level. I felt like a fourth traveler tagging along behind the trio of main characters on their arduous journey. As for three main characters, they are all “royalty” in their respective religious sects, but their personae have been distinctly crafted so that the reader perceives how one character’s behaviors, mannerisms, points of view, and even thoughts are as unique and complex in the fictional world as those of people in the real world. For example, Caelym is ostensibly a heroic figure, but he frequently is tripped up by his own arrogance and self-flattery with regard to the breadth of his knowledge and sharpness of his skills while at the same time lacking an equally vast accumulation of wisdom. His tendency to sometimes act recklessly and to ignore sage advice from one especially strong woman renders him a more sympathetic character, just not a perfect one. A priestess in her own right, Annwr is unimpressed with Caelym. Herein lies the undercurrent of tension, the battle of the sexes, that flows like an aquifer as the novel progresses. Yet, Annwr is no saint. Her beef with Caelym is more a manifestation of her personal bitterness rather than an ideological war with men. She is not at peace with life and with herself, and she does not reveal her softer side except in the presence of Aleswina, her charge and surrogate daughter. Nevertheless, my need for social commentary is met by the implied superiority of Annwr—an aging crone, cranky, and hardened by fifteen years of isolation and enslavement—over Caelym—a comely, fit, and privileged wunderkind. Annwr’s tussle for dominance in her relationship with Caelym is supported by a broader theme that sits at the core of the novel, namely the existence of a goddess supreme who rules the world. As for Princess Aleswina, the alleged damsel in distress, she turns out to be spunkier than expected. She is soft spoken and naive but is never portrayed as a shrinking violet. In fact, she works in the dirt as a master gardener, breaks rules, makes difficult and life-altering decisions, and grows up over the course of the journey. The fact that she stoically bears the burden of her predicament at the end of Book 1 suggests that, like Annwr, she is another personification of the strong female archetype unselfconsciously suffused throughout this enjoyable novel.

[Yvette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set during the Dark Ages, The Oath is the story of the journey of a small group of druids and a christian across eighth century Britain. To fulfill one of his many oaths, young and sometimes foolish druid priest/healer Caelyn must find and rescue Annwr, the sister of the high priestess who was captured by Saxons fifteen years earlier, and his own sons who were sent to be fostered in a Saxon village.

The story begins as he evades pursuers, nearly reaching the Abby where Annwr lives as a midwife and servant to the novice Princess Aleswina, having been her nursemaid since infancy.  As the danger from the hunt for the Druid sorcerer lessens, a new danger unfolds that has Caelyn reluctantly beginning the next part of the journey with Aleswina as well as Annwr. 

As the story unfolds, this unlikely trio faces hardships, challenges, and danger. First in finding and retrieving Caelyn's young sons and then in continuing toward the new home of their Druid community. With stories within the story, this is an imaginative and engaging tale of Druid and Christian, Saxon and Celt, that reads as a travel story rather than dry history.  

First in A.M. Linden's The Druid Chronicles series, The Oath is a fantastic tale of the intersecting druid and christian worlds. Rather than tie everything up with a bow, The Oath ends at a logical point, leaving the reader looking forward to reading more of the sometimes charming Caelyn and his young sons, practical Annwr, and shy Aleswina. Recommended for fans of historical fiction and other readers wanting a bit of a change of pace.

This review refers to an Advance Reader Copy I voluntarily read, courtesy of the publisher. A positive review is not required and all opinions expressed are strictly my own.

[Donna Bull · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Oath is historical fiction full of Druids and Christians in 8th century Britain. The story focuses on Caelym, a Druid priest who is on a mission to find the sister of the High Priestess of his Druid cult. He finds Annwr, but is surprised to find her guarding a Saxon princess, Aleswina. The world building is well done and I liked the descriptions of the countryside, the life of the convent that Aleswina lives in and all the descriptions of healing plants. My favorite character was Annwr, she was strong, capable and fiercely protective of Aleswina. Caelym has some funny moments, but his best are when he is with his sons. While the story flowed along, the main issue I had was that I never felt like the characters were ever in any real danger, so it didn't seem to matter what was going to happen next because they were all going to be fine. And then, the story just stopped, seemed rather abrupt, like it maybe was missing some big piece of action or cliffhanger to end on?? Aleswina was problematic for me as well, as she never felt like she had any agency, everything was always happening to her and she never felt like she was driving the story.

Arc provided by She Writes Press and NetGalley

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Oath takes place in a Britain full of Saxons and Druids. It’s a time of mystery, magic, and things that can’t be explained that is being destroyed in service to a new religion. But pockets hold on and stick to the old ways. In service to those ways a young Druid priest is sent to find the sister of the chief priestess. What follows is a tale of travel through medieval England. The trip is not without troubles and triumphs and the telling makes for an engaging journey for the reader as they are brought along for the adventure.

It’s a mostly gentle story of seeking, finding and setting out to return to a place almost but not quite forgotten. Along the way lessons are learned by all on the journey even though they don’t realize the learning. The Oath is engaging in its innocence and enjoyable in the classic travel tale. I read it in an afternoon while enjoying a wonderful day in the sun. It was a perfect book for escaping into and getting away from the ordinary.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautifully imagined story that immediately captured my attention. Though I love history, this is a time I know very little about and I relished immersing myself in the period. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the small cast of fascinating characters, each with their own ideas of how approach their adventure.

The story felt a little slow in the middle, but I kept reading and I’m glad that I did. This is a fascinating historical chronicle and the cover perfectly represents the book.

This is the first in a five-book series called The Druid Chronicles. I’m definitely looking forward to the second installment.

Thanks to NetGalley and She Writes Press for the free copy.

[Joy Ramlogan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This quest novel set in the times of change in England's Dark Ages between the native darker Britons and the Saxons. The druid Caemlyn is on the run, seeking the sister of his leader and wife to bring her to the new refuge of the druids. Also strongly outlined is the Saxon princess who goes on the run with the druids and helps to rescue the druid's two sons. Unlike most quest novels, we know when they have to relieve themselves, how hard the gathering of food is and we are made to understand the gruelling nature of questing. The stories of the druid are always on point and so part of the story that I was not tempted to skim. I thought the end was a tad abrupt as they left the poor princess with her former nursemaid. Overall an easy read perfect for after Christmas idleness.

[Denise O'Neil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gifted an ARC by #thebookclubcookbook for an honest review.
The Oath is the first in a series of books taking us on a journey into 8th Century Britain. Slowly the story unfolds, presenting three main characters. While others are briefly mentioned, the focus is on the three characters struggling with their individual paths in life. Paths which have diverged from what they had expected. Caelym is a determined to accomplish the task he has been given; bringing Annwr back after being held in captivity by the Saxons for 15 years. But her life has drastically changed and she is torn between two worlds. Linden built a world and characters that pulled me into their journey. We are left wondering what will come next. I also enjoyed the emphasis on the female characters.

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Druid Chronicle is a medieval historical fiction set in the late 700s ad Britain and so far this series has been an enjoyable read! I haven't read too many books that take place that far back so it was interesting to read something different. There's adventure and wonderful characters! All of the characters are interesting and I had no problem getting invested in them! Especially Annwr for me she was the one I was most interested in! Both books are well written and entertaining! I look forward to continuing the series!

[Connie Estep · Rating 5 out of 5]

The struggles between Britons and Saxons have fascinated readers and authors for centuries. A.M. Linden goes beyond King Arthur characters and story lines. Her characters are from all classes, with familiar human drives and foibles, even though set in a world very different from ours. She involves the reader from the get-go, has a sense of humor and is an unpredictable author! I can hardly wait to re-read it!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A.M. Linden developed strong characters in The Oath and they carried me along with them on their adventures. I especially appreciated the unique and clever ways problems were solved as the storyline advanced. I look forward to The Druid Chronicles #2! I received an advanced readers copy of this book.

[A. Lorna Warren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this book.

While I was a little disappointed in the ending, I enjoyed reading this overall! I'm glad there will be more in the future. I would like to get to know the characters a little bit more- I didn't feel like I connected with them as much as I would have liked.

[James P. Whalen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Oath transports the reader to a time and place that is compellingly conjured by Linden's vivid imagination. It blends timeless themes with wry social and political commentary, and, best of all, it is a page turner's page turner.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Oath, A.M. Linden brings her readers into a world that many of us would otherwise have never imagined. The rich historical detail and the provocative, engaging characters left me wishing I could open the next book in this series. Excellent read!

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pleased to receive an advanced copy of this tale and quickly found myself drawn to all of the major characters and their predicaments. The unique historical setting as depicted by Linden with subtle humor contrasts the Druids and Saxons of the Dark Ages, and I found myself liking characters from both sides. Descriptions of the countryside and villages during the journey depicted in The Oath are beautifully drawn. I understand this is the first volume of a series and you will ache for the next book as you finish this one.

[Oh Look,AnotherBook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I find myself constantly saying one thing to my husband, and that is ‘no, I will not be buying too many books this week’. It is a conversation we seem to have every Monday, Tuesday, and so on, whenever I mention a new series I have discovered. Luckily for him, only book 1 of this series is out so far, so he needn’t worry… that is, until the next books come out!

Caelym is a druid priest, sent on a mission to find the priestess’s sister, who was abducted by Saxons many years ago. She was presumed dead, until a prophecy told that she was not dead, but very much alive and in need of rescue. When Caelym finds her, an arrow in his back, a souvenir from his journey, he doesn’t find what he expected. Annwr is no young, distraught maiden, but a woman who seems comfortable with the life she is living.

Annwr is reluctant to listen to Caelym, most of his sentences are riddled with poetic turns of phrase anyway, but she can’t ignore that he needs medical help, and begins to take care of him. Annwr has spent her years looking after the Saxon princess Aleswina, who lost her parents at a very young age. Aleswina is like a daughter to Annwr, and when Aleswina learns she is to leave the convent she never wanted to go into, to marry her cousin, the King, she sees just one path ahead of her. She knows Caelym wants Annwr to go with him, and Caelym is finally well enough to travel – she must go with them.

One of my favourite things about finding a new book (or series…!) to love, is meeting the characters. More times than not, I completely fall in love with them, and cannot bear to leave them. I do have young children, so I sometimes find it difficult to find time to read. It is especially hard when books like this come along, and I can’t bear to put them down, even if there is Play-Doh on the floor, and my youngest is demanding snacks half an hour before dinner.

I am a sarcastic person by nature, and, to my absolute delight, so is Caelym. He does so much to try and gain a little praise from Annwr, although such a thing is never forthcoming, for Annwr is much too preoccupied to tell Caelym ‘well done’. Aleswina is not used to living in the woods and eating only what is available from the land, and Annwr has her hands full with teaching the delicate Aleswina how to look after herself away from the Saxon civilisation she is used to. Nevertheless, Caelym has little patience for her, and his thoughts are very sarcastic and I found his remarks incredibly funny. My husband did not, although when I kept interrupting him to read aloud my new favourite part, I clearly didn’t give him enough context to properly appreciate them.

This is an absolutely amazing adventure to follow the characters on. I can’t wait for book 2, for I am already missing the characters, and need to rejoin them as soon as possible!

*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.

[Melvin Hughes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story and development. But the characters were a little stiff and too clichéd for my taste.