What do you think?
Rate this book
The Celtic Rebels #2
Queen of Stone
Britain, A.D. 43
With the arrival of the Romans, Boudica’s world is in upheaval. She and Prasutagus must decide where they stand. Will they fight the invaders alongside Caratacus or bargain with the Romans to secure the future of the Iceni? Every choice seems like a bad one. But more than anything, Boudica wants to keep her people and her family safe. Whispers from the greenwood—the groves, the rivers, and the stones—warn of unseen dangers. Can Boudica protect all she loves without bowing to the eagle?
With the arrival of the Romans, Boudica’s world is in upheaval. She and Prasutagus must decide where they stand. Will they fight the invaders alongside Caratacus or bargain with the Romans to secure the future of the Iceni? Every choice seems like a bad one. But more than anything, Boudica wants to keep her people and her family safe. Whispers from the greenwood—the groves, the rivers, and the stones—warn of unseen dangers. Can Boudica protect all she loves without bowing to the eagle?
778 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2022
503 people are currently reading
601 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Karsak
90 books1,710 followersNew York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
Join my newsletter and get Under the Strawberry Moon for FREE: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Connect with me online:
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Webpage: http://www.melaniekarsak.com
Facebook: @AuthorMelanieKarsak
Pinterest: @melaniekarsak
Instagram: @karsakmelanie
Join my newsletter and get Under the Strawberry Moon for FREE: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Connect with me online:
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Webpage: http://www.melaniekarsak.com
Facebook: @AuthorMelanieKarsak
Pinterest: @melaniekarsak
Instagram: @karsakmelanie
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
April 3, 2025
This second book in the Celtic Rebels has more political intrigue than the first book, and includes some crossover with Queen Cartimandua, whose story I began reading in The Crow Queen. The Romans are infilitrating Iron Age villages, some in more subtle ways than others, but the signs of imperial takeover are all there. Boudica struggles between keeping her peoples safe, and standing up to and rebelling against the immoral behavior of the Romans. The conflict with the Romans is building, but it's not a full blown attack. They take slaves and rape women in neighboring villages, but use manipulation, power, and wealth to bribe those they are interested in controlling or trading with.
“Are the Romans really taking slaves from the common people?”
"the Romans have marched on the Dobunni, burning villages and taking hostages as they search for King Caratacus.”
Caratacus was eventually betrayed by Cartimandua and delivered to the Romans.
It's a slow build with political intrigue, occasionally meandering. The Romans are definitely suspicious, and we know they are up to no good.
"it’s unsettling to have so many Romans about.”
There is a good amount of mysticism and folklore with different animals the "little people of the hills" or the fae.
-"The hare is a messenger between the worlds,” Ula told me. “They can show you signs. The little people of the hollow hills are watching. Do you feel their eyes?”
-"Bees are sacred to our goddess, Brigid. Our ancient sects know all forms of bee magic. If you anger one of our cooks, she will send a hive of bees to sting you."
Boudica is a woman of fire and passion. She grapples between fighting and protecting, and where she must draw the line and protect at all costs. "my heart, I want to fight. I do. I know what Caesar tried to do here.”
“Protect the trees. “Protect the stones. “Protect the greenwood.”
the Romans began cutting trees in the forest not far from Maiden Stones. They have left us in peace, so we did not protest, but they have returned and penetrated into our sacred woods.
The Romans violated holy and sacred land, trees, and stones, defiling ancestors. The Celtic people are very tied to their land, so this was a huge betrayal for the Romans to do, after lying and making promises they would not.
"the Romans are either very brave or very stupid to take stones from the little people of the hollow hills. They may find them far less forgiving than our warriors.”
"I am Boudica, Queen of the Greater Iceni, sister of King Caturix of the Northern Iceni, and you are trespassing on sacred land.”
"Hold, Roman, where you are not wanted, lest you risk the fury of our gods.”
There is nothing to fear from trees.” “Tell that to Caesar,”
“Aulus, this is a sacred place. It is a special place for women. The forest itself is ancient. And the circle of stones, which you no doubt passed, have been here for thousands of years. You cannot touch this place.
“Rome will pull down our gods as it pulls down our kings. Beware, Boudica, for one day, they will come for you too.”
Boudica is up against all odds, and it ends on a cliffhanger. I think each book in the series is slightly different thematically and the author's writing seems to be getting better. This book included more lyrical and atmospheric moments than what I remember from the first, although not quite the level of atmosphere I enjoyed in The Crow Queen. I just finished the series about Cartimandua by the same author, I'm really looking forward to reading Boudica's finale Queen of Ash and Iron and compare her leadership styles with Cartimandua--whose fourth book is set to come out this fall. They each took different approaches in how they dealt with the Romans politically, and it's been very interesting to get to know them more personally and understand their decisions.
“You stand alone before a tidal wave.”
“Are the Romans really taking slaves from the common people?”
"the Romans have marched on the Dobunni, burning villages and taking hostages as they search for King Caratacus.”
Caratacus was eventually betrayed by Cartimandua and delivered to the Romans.
It's a slow build with political intrigue, occasionally meandering. The Romans are definitely suspicious, and we know they are up to no good.
"it’s unsettling to have so many Romans about.”
There is a good amount of mysticism and folklore with different animals the "little people of the hills" or the fae.
-"The hare is a messenger between the worlds,” Ula told me. “They can show you signs. The little people of the hollow hills are watching. Do you feel their eyes?”
-"Bees are sacred to our goddess, Brigid. Our ancient sects know all forms of bee magic. If you anger one of our cooks, she will send a hive of bees to sting you."
Boudica is a woman of fire and passion. She grapples between fighting and protecting, and where she must draw the line and protect at all costs. "my heart, I want to fight. I do. I know what Caesar tried to do here.”
“Protect the trees. “Protect the stones. “Protect the greenwood.”
the Romans began cutting trees in the forest not far from Maiden Stones. They have left us in peace, so we did not protest, but they have returned and penetrated into our sacred woods.
The Romans violated holy and sacred land, trees, and stones, defiling ancestors. The Celtic people are very tied to their land, so this was a huge betrayal for the Romans to do, after lying and making promises they would not.
"the Romans are either very brave or very stupid to take stones from the little people of the hollow hills. They may find them far less forgiving than our warriors.”
"I am Boudica, Queen of the Greater Iceni, sister of King Caturix of the Northern Iceni, and you are trespassing on sacred land.”
"Hold, Roman, where you are not wanted, lest you risk the fury of our gods.”
There is nothing to fear from trees.” “Tell that to Caesar,”
“Aulus, this is a sacred place. It is a special place for women. The forest itself is ancient. And the circle of stones, which you no doubt passed, have been here for thousands of years. You cannot touch this place.
“Rome will pull down our gods as it pulls down our kings. Beware, Boudica, for one day, they will come for you too.”
Boudica is up against all odds, and it ends on a cliffhanger. I think each book in the series is slightly different thematically and the author's writing seems to be getting better. This book included more lyrical and atmospheric moments than what I remember from the first, although not quite the level of atmosphere I enjoyed in The Crow Queen. I just finished the series about Cartimandua by the same author, I'm really looking forward to reading Boudica's finale Queen of Ash and Iron and compare her leadership styles with Cartimandua--whose fourth book is set to come out this fall. They each took different approaches in how they dealt with the Romans politically, and it's been very interesting to get to know them more personally and understand their decisions.
“You stand alone before a tidal wave.”
November 3, 2022
Great second installment in this series! I like reading about the Celtic era, especially the development of London. These places still exist…the forests, the rings of stone, the city walls and forts. I like the growth of the characters and their strong family ties as well. A little bit of mysticism was perfectly placed to glue the story all together.
June 10, 2023
I loved it and can't wait for the next book!
Boudica must now play a dangerous, political game with the Romans to keep all her people safe. The plot twists had me on edge, and I completely devoured this book. The narrator is amazing and did a beautiful job making this story come alive!!
Highly recommend, this is a must read book, series and author!!
Boudica must now play a dangerous, political game with the Romans to keep all her people safe. The plot twists had me on edge, and I completely devoured this book. The narrator is amazing and did a beautiful job making this story come alive!!
Highly recommend, this is a must read book, series and author!!
April 1, 2023
Good story.
A few twists and turns and I was mindful that in history this doesn't end well.
Cliffhanger ending.
A few twists and turns and I was mindful that in history this doesn't end well.
Cliffhanger ending.
July 10, 2022
Oh my dear Boudica; how does such tragedy always follow you?
After anxiously awaiting this book I couldn't stand to put it down and finished it in just a couple of days.
Boudica is always so wise, so thoughtful of her fellow Icenis, and protectively fierce. This book brings up the continuing invasion of Rome, the growth and death of family, and all the twists that come with trying to do the best for your family and your people.
ARC review, I received a copy of this book for my honest review. As with this book and all of Melanie Karsak's other works, I HIGHLY recommend them all.
After anxiously awaiting this book I couldn't stand to put it down and finished it in just a couple of days.
Boudica is always so wise, so thoughtful of her fellow Icenis, and protectively fierce. This book brings up the continuing invasion of Rome, the growth and death of family, and all the twists that come with trying to do the best for your family and your people.
ARC review, I received a copy of this book for my honest review. As with this book and all of Melanie Karsak's other works, I HIGHLY recommend them all.
August 30, 2022
I honestly adore this, but I'm struggling to lift it to 4 stars with the meandering this book took. Book 1 was very much both plot and character driven, but book 2 was political. Positioning. And I felt like it left me with the same cliffhanger as Book 1 did.
I will likely re-read this one, but for now, owed to lack of plot development beyond the daily lives of Boudica, et. al while the conflict brews off screen, I'm leaving at 3*.
I will likely re-read this one, but for now, owed to lack of plot development beyond the daily lives of Boudica, et. al while the conflict brews off screen, I'm leaving at 3*.
April 2, 2023
Rome should not be trusted!
Wow, a lot happened in this book! It was non stop action and a very fast pace. Great story telling, this author creates a world that you feel you are a part of the story. Get her books and leave your reviews!
Wow, a lot happened in this book! It was non stop action and a very fast pace. Great story telling, this author creates a world that you feel you are a part of the story. Get her books and leave your reviews!
June 13, 2022
must read series
The story telling is amazing. You get lost in the world in Boudica and her people. You feel what the characters are feeling as you dive deeper in the each book.
The story telling is amazing. You get lost in the world in Boudica and her people. You feel what the characters are feeling as you dive deeper in the each book.
September 27, 2022
keeps getting better
The story keeps getting better! I read the Celtic series first, but this is much better. I’m at a loss for words… just read it.
The story keeps getting better! I read the Celtic series first, but this is much better. I’m at a loss for words… just read it.
June 1, 2023
4.5 Stars rounded to five. I devoured this book, at first I thought the 760 pages was too long but I was able to get through it fairly quickly. Though it still is too long in a sense, felt like it could've ended a lot sooner.
June 2, 2022
Boudica is Queen of the Greater Iceni. She had not yet settled into her new home when the Romans landed on their shores. Boudica is in a dilemma. She either has to fight or make peace with the Romans. Boudica decides that it is best for her kingdom if she becomes a client queen under Rome. However, she wonders if she has made the right decision. Boudica wonders if there is a personal cost by being an ally with Rome. Yet, she foresees that one day she may take up arms against Rome herself.
Queen of Stone is the second novel of the Boudica series, which focuses on the life of Queen Boudica. The first novel, Queen of Oak, focuses on the eventual arrival of the Romans on British shores. This novel focuses on Boudica’s dilemma now that the Romans have arrived. I was eager to see what Boudica would do now that the Romans were on the British lands. This novel did not disappoint.
Boudica has matured greatly since Queen of the Oak. Now that she is a queen, Boudica must contemplate what is best for her people. Boudica takes her queenship very seriously. She is not afraid to submit to Rome if it is in her people’s welfare. She wants to strengthen her kingdom and live in peace. With the Romans seeking to destroy the Druid religion, Boudica wonders if she did the right thing. Thus, we can see that Boudica is a reluctant heroine because she is still hesitant to take up arms against the Romans. Thus, Boudica has grown from a rebellious and wild princess from the first novel to a meticulous, level-headed, and responsible queen in the second novel.
Overall, this novel has political intrigue sprinkled with plenty of magic, action, and romance. All the characters are complex and very realistic. I also thought the author did a superb job in weaving Boudica’s story with the known facts of the Roman invasion of Britain in 43 C.E. While the second novel is slower paced than the first novel, I thought it laid excellent groundwork for what is to come in the next installments. It has been a pleasure walking alongside Boudica and seeing her conflict about fighting the invaders. Because of this book, Boudica seems more real to me rather than simply a name in a history textbook! I can’t wait to read the third book! I recommend Queen of Stone for fans of Daughters of Fire, The Eagle and The Raven, and Dreaming the Eagle! Mrs. Karsak proves that her The Celtic Rebels series must not be missed!
(Note: I received an ARC copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Queen of Stone is the second novel of the Boudica series, which focuses on the life of Queen Boudica. The first novel, Queen of Oak, focuses on the eventual arrival of the Romans on British shores. This novel focuses on Boudica’s dilemma now that the Romans have arrived. I was eager to see what Boudica would do now that the Romans were on the British lands. This novel did not disappoint.
Boudica has matured greatly since Queen of the Oak. Now that she is a queen, Boudica must contemplate what is best for her people. Boudica takes her queenship very seriously. She is not afraid to submit to Rome if it is in her people’s welfare. She wants to strengthen her kingdom and live in peace. With the Romans seeking to destroy the Druid religion, Boudica wonders if she did the right thing. Thus, we can see that Boudica is a reluctant heroine because she is still hesitant to take up arms against the Romans. Thus, Boudica has grown from a rebellious and wild princess from the first novel to a meticulous, level-headed, and responsible queen in the second novel.
Overall, this novel has political intrigue sprinkled with plenty of magic, action, and romance. All the characters are complex and very realistic. I also thought the author did a superb job in weaving Boudica’s story with the known facts of the Roman invasion of Britain in 43 C.E. While the second novel is slower paced than the first novel, I thought it laid excellent groundwork for what is to come in the next installments. It has been a pleasure walking alongside Boudica and seeing her conflict about fighting the invaders. Because of this book, Boudica seems more real to me rather than simply a name in a history textbook! I can’t wait to read the third book! I recommend Queen of Stone for fans of Daughters of Fire, The Eagle and The Raven, and Dreaming the Eagle! Mrs. Karsak proves that her The Celtic Rebels series must not be missed!
(Note: I received an ARC copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)
July 10, 2024
First reread, 7/10/24
What an ending.
What a series so far! Yes this is a reread for me, but I’m really glad I spent those audible credits on it. I’ve thought about Boudicca and Pix many times since I first read them last summer. I really enjoy the mysticism; the greenwood is there, but it’s not the headliner. The fog allowing Boudicca and Aurelius (sp? Tried googling, can’t be sure) to converse is one of my favorite parts of this book. And there’s a lot that happens here. Boudicca is just trying to keep everyone she loves safe, but some of those beloved people aren’t making it easy on her. She is able to extract promises from her Roman friend, only to later see them broken. She tries to reason with her elder brother, but he’s listening to the wrong people. And he’ll pay dearly for that.
Pix is still my main squeeze, though.
What an ending.
What a series so far! Yes this is a reread for me, but I’m really glad I spent those audible credits on it. I’ve thought about Boudicca and Pix many times since I first read them last summer. I really enjoy the mysticism; the greenwood is there, but it’s not the headliner. The fog allowing Boudicca and Aurelius (sp? Tried googling, can’t be sure) to converse is one of my favorite parts of this book. And there’s a lot that happens here. Boudicca is just trying to keep everyone she loves safe, but some of those beloved people aren’t making it easy on her. She is able to extract promises from her Roman friend, only to later see them broken. She tries to reason with her elder brother, but he’s listening to the wrong people. And he’ll pay dearly for that.
Pix is still my main squeeze, though.
April 17, 2023
Fantastic
I've completely fallen in love with the characters in the series.
The storyline is good and foreshadowing through the ages and series is just enough to keep it interesting.
I've completely fallen in love with the characters in the series.
The storyline is good and foreshadowing through the ages and series is just enough to keep it interesting.
June 8, 2022
Fantastic!!!
I didn't want it to end. If you haven't read this author's works you are missing something special. Can't wait for the sequel
I didn't want it to end. If you haven't read this author's works you are missing something special. Can't wait for the sequel
July 12, 2022
Soul touching
Queen of stone is excellent! I couldn't put it down! Boudica feels like a soul sister and has captured my mind! Well written, in fact, perfect! Must read!
Queen of stone is excellent! I couldn't put it down! Boudica feels like a soul sister and has captured my mind! Well written, in fact, perfect! Must read!
October 26, 2022
Queen of stone
Superb reading. Wonderful imagery. A really well done story of what if and it might have been. Hard to put down
Superb reading. Wonderful imagery. A really well done story of what if and it might have been. Hard to put down
May 25, 2022
Queen Boudica is trying to keep all the people in her kingdom safe. She lost her father in battle and now her uncle is the king. What kind of king is he going to make or be? Will he keep the people safe? Will he take care of the people? Well, I don’t think so not after what the queen saw in one of the villages she visited on her way home to her own village.
Her uncle is not the only thing she has to worry about as the Romans are on their way to their village. The queen is gathering all her people together getting them ready for battle. They believe the Romans are on their way and are ready for battle. Can Queen Boudica save her people? Can she keep them safe? Can she protect them from the Romans?
The Romans have come in and given the queen and her people an ultimatum. Can or will the queen submit to the Romans for the safety of her people? Can she bow down to the Romans for the lives of others?
Queen of Stone kept me glued to the pages with all the fighting scenes and all the different animals. I love elephants and was glad to see that the queen feels the same way I do about them. The action from one page to another kept me racing to the end to see how it was all going to turn out.
The queen had a lot of battles and obstacles that she had to go through to keep the ones she loves safe. Queen Boudica has a great big heart and is always thinking of everyone else before thinking about herself. She always wants to do what is right and fair for her people.
I would recommend Queen of Stone to all fantasy and historical fans! One-click your copy of Queen of Stone today!
Her uncle is not the only thing she has to worry about as the Romans are on their way to their village. The queen is gathering all her people together getting them ready for battle. They believe the Romans are on their way and are ready for battle. Can Queen Boudica save her people? Can she keep them safe? Can she protect them from the Romans?
The Romans have come in and given the queen and her people an ultimatum. Can or will the queen submit to the Romans for the safety of her people? Can she bow down to the Romans for the lives of others?
Queen of Stone kept me glued to the pages with all the fighting scenes and all the different animals. I love elephants and was glad to see that the queen feels the same way I do about them. The action from one page to another kept me racing to the end to see how it was all going to turn out.
The queen had a lot of battles and obstacles that she had to go through to keep the ones she loves safe. Queen Boudica has a great big heart and is always thinking of everyone else before thinking about herself. She always wants to do what is right and fair for her people.
I would recommend Queen of Stone to all fantasy and historical fans! One-click your copy of Queen of Stone today!
June 2, 2022
This story is an adventure and a half! It takes the reader on an odyssey and covers a lot of land. It is 43 A.D. in Britain and Boudica is now Queen. She finds herself at a crossroads, the Romans have invaded, and she must decide what is best for her and her people. Does she fight alongside Caractacus and his people or does she try and find a middle ground with the Romans? It is only in her mind that is best for her and her people and those thought decisions are not always clear. With the help of nature, the Gods, and the strength she has within her, Boudica (with Prasutagus at her side) starts on an adventure for the ages.
This story is packed full at almost eight hundred pages! It never slows, it never dulls and for the life of me I TRIED to make it last, but I never can seem to do that with this author's stories, once I start, I do not exist outside of them until the last page.
Queen of Stone includes:
- Historical Fantasy/Epic Adventure/Re-imagined
- Strong Female Lead/Interesting and Fun Characters
- Tough Choices/Strength/Growth/Complex World Building
- Celtic/Romans/Gods/Surprise Beings
- Queen Boudica Protects Her People at All Costs
- Action/Politics (of the time)/Romance/Family Dynamics
- Addictive/Must Read
*If you are new to this series, start with Queen of Oak! (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...)
This story is packed full at almost eight hundred pages! It never slows, it never dulls and for the life of me I TRIED to make it last, but I never can seem to do that with this author's stories, once I start, I do not exist outside of them until the last page.
Queen of Stone includes:
- Historical Fantasy/Epic Adventure/Re-imagined
- Strong Female Lead/Interesting and Fun Characters
- Tough Choices/Strength/Growth/Complex World Building
- Celtic/Romans/Gods/Surprise Beings
- Queen Boudica Protects Her People at All Costs
- Action/Politics (of the time)/Romance/Family Dynamics
- Addictive/Must Read
*If you are new to this series, start with Queen of Oak! (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...)
July 10, 2022
Early Britain Brought to Life
I've always been fascinated by Britain in the time of the Celts and Romans, and learned of Boadica in school. Ms. Karsak brings both the period and the person to life in this series. From the mystical greenwood and hollow hills to the ominous arrival of Rome and its conquest of the warring tribes of early Britain, Karsak creates a very real sense of the Celtic and Roman worlds and the clash of cultures that took place two thousand years ago. But it is her development of the character of Boadica as the strong woman who navigates between the two worlds and the two men who represent them that engages our interest. The tension builds throughout the novel as the Roman world threatens to destroy the simple yet complex life of the early Britons, replacing it with the autocratic organization and more civilized but equally more barbaric Roman ways. Boadica and her husband overcome their pride and fear to keep their people safe, with an interesting twist as Boadica recognizes a unique connection to the Roman governor, perhaps from a past life. Watching the interplay of relationships is as entertaining as having the history and mystery of early Britain come to life. I will eagerly await the next book in the series.
I've always been fascinated by Britain in the time of the Celts and Romans, and learned of Boadica in school. Ms. Karsak brings both the period and the person to life in this series. From the mystical greenwood and hollow hills to the ominous arrival of Rome and its conquest of the warring tribes of early Britain, Karsak creates a very real sense of the Celtic and Roman worlds and the clash of cultures that took place two thousand years ago. But it is her development of the character of Boadica as the strong woman who navigates between the two worlds and the two men who represent them that engages our interest. The tension builds throughout the novel as the Roman world threatens to destroy the simple yet complex life of the early Britons, replacing it with the autocratic organization and more civilized but equally more barbaric Roman ways. Boadica and her husband overcome their pride and fear to keep their people safe, with an interesting twist as Boadica recognizes a unique connection to the Roman governor, perhaps from a past life. Watching the interplay of relationships is as entertaining as having the history and mystery of early Britain come to life. I will eagerly await the next book in the series.
July 4, 2022
I've read books I and II now and both were un-put-downable. The heroine is so likable. You really want Boudica to succeed. In many ways the Iceni are facing the same things the world is facing right now. The Roman Empire was pretty close to establishing a one-world government and I think that's what we've been up against here and now under a different banner. I also think that in order to release ourselves from this grasp, from whatever direction it's coming from - we need to break away and form smaller communities, getting away from not only federal, state and county governments but smashing the whole thing and starting over. Because of the internet, we can now find like-minded/valued people and set up new, smaller (tribal, if you will) governments. Something/anything that will relieve this constant pressure to fit in within a situation where one does not belong. At this moment, financial considerations don't even allow us to move and go somewhere else. Home prices are beginning to plummet so if you have a home, you can't sell it and buy another one. If you do, the financial system demands a 4% - infinity interest rate. This is unsustainable.
May 29, 2022
Have you ever had a favorite author that wrote each book as if you were besties with one or more of the characters, and were right there with them? Well, Melanie Karsak is such an author for me! This second book in Boudica's Celtic Rebels series is amazing! I could be biased being Celtic myself and seeing the names of ancient tribes my ancestors belonged to written for all to see, but the ancient history (both fact and fiction) brought to life in Queen of Stone, really made me stop and think how it has affected me.
The courageous Boudica, the humorous Pix, the cantankerous Ula, the steadfast Prasutagas, even General Aulus will break your heart, lift your spirits, and leave you bewildered. And things are just heating up! I can't recommend this book enough whether your a Boudica enthusiasts or just a fan of excitement and adventure, you won't be disappointed to continue on the journey!
I was gifted this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion, in my own words.
The courageous Boudica, the humorous Pix, the cantankerous Ula, the steadfast Prasutagas, even General Aulus will break your heart, lift your spirits, and leave you bewildered. And things are just heating up! I can't recommend this book enough whether your a Boudica enthusiasts or just a fan of excitement and adventure, you won't be disappointed to continue on the journey!
I was gifted this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion, in my own words.
July 28, 2022
Historical fiction which reads like an epic paranormal adventure story. The story of Boudica continues with her firmly taking the role as Queen of the Greater Iceni. The relationship between her soul and those of Prasutacus and Aulus is made more clear. The savage, barbaric essence of the Roman Empire is pressed upon Britannia. There are some joyous events to ease the pain of the dark ones. Overall, an excellent telling of this period of history. Although I cannot vouch for the accuracy, I have confidence in Melanie Karsak's depiction.
Action-packed. Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Haunting. Romantic. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
Action-packed. Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Haunting. Romantic. Scary. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
April 21, 2023
****SPOILERS AHEAD****
Although I love the first book, I'm torn on how many stars to give the second. I loved the story, truly fantasy; however, I have a real problem with the part of the story that implies Boudicca and Aulus had a love connection. Is there any historical evidence to suggest such an emotional affair? (Yes I know this is just a story!) I find it incredible to believe that Boudicca would have been fond of any of Britons invaders; that kingdom that came to conquer and murder her countrymen; in the end torturing her and raping her teenage daughters.
I think I would have been much happier with the story if it focused on her unwavering protection of her people and her commitment to her husband.
Although I love the first book, I'm torn on how many stars to give the second. I loved the story, truly fantasy; however, I have a real problem with the part of the story that implies Boudicca and Aulus had a love connection. Is there any historical evidence to suggest such an emotional affair? (Yes I know this is just a story!) I find it incredible to believe that Boudicca would have been fond of any of Britons invaders; that kingdom that came to conquer and murder her countrymen; in the end torturing her and raping her teenage daughters.
I think I would have been much happier with the story if it focused on her unwavering protection of her people and her commitment to her husband.
June 7, 2022
Beautiful, poignant, gripping
I love this series! I'm so glad this book is out! This second installment in the story is just as good as the first! If you like historical fiction, love stories, magic, adventure or romance this is a must read! The characters are so beautifully developed they start to feel like real friends. The trials and tribulations they go through have me thinking, geez, what would I do in that situation. Additionally, the themes in this book are good ones to ponder in today's world. What if we all took time to ponder how we could be the best versions of ourselves. If I could give this 10 stars I would! Don't hesitate, read this book!
I love this series! I'm so glad this book is out! This second installment in the story is just as good as the first! If you like historical fiction, love stories, magic, adventure or romance this is a must read! The characters are so beautifully developed they start to feel like real friends. The trials and tribulations they go through have me thinking, geez, what would I do in that situation. Additionally, the themes in this book are good ones to ponder in today's world. What if we all took time to ponder how we could be the best versions of ourselves. If I could give this 10 stars I would! Don't hesitate, read this book!
January 5, 2023
Great Series
I’ve read the first two books in this series and thoroughly enjoyed them. The only negative is that the third book has not been published yet, so I will have to wait a few months to read the final installment! I love the character of Boudicca and the way the other world is brought into the story in a way that influences the storyline without overtaking it. I also love the romance without icky sex scenes that go into too much depth for me. No foul language or incredibly gory scenes. Just great storytelling!
I’ve read the first two books in this series and thoroughly enjoyed them. The only negative is that the third book has not been published yet, so I will have to wait a few months to read the final installment! I love the character of Boudicca and the way the other world is brought into the story in a way that influences the storyline without overtaking it. I also love the romance without icky sex scenes that go into too much depth for me. No foul language or incredibly gory scenes. Just great storytelling!
July 3, 2023
Good sequel
I feel as if so much happens in his book! Boudica has managed to find three lifelong loves in her short life, and though I was curious about a certain Roman Governor, I was glad that she stayed true to herself and her family. Gah to Caturix, he could have been so much more. I am so proud of Bran and his priestess, he has really grown. I still really like Prasutagus, and kept waiting for Ms.Karsak to destroy him. I am so glad she didn’t! I am still waiting for Boudica’s fire, and wonder if we shall see it in the next book which I can’t wait to read.
I feel as if so much happens in his book! Boudica has managed to find three lifelong loves in her short life, and though I was curious about a certain Roman Governor, I was glad that she stayed true to herself and her family. Gah to Caturix, he could have been so much more. I am so proud of Bran and his priestess, he has really grown. I still really like Prasutagus, and kept waiting for Ms.Karsak to destroy him. I am so glad she didn’t! I am still waiting for Boudica’s fire, and wonder if we shall see it in the next book which I can’t wait to read.
May 30, 2022
Damn. I do not have the words to express just exactly how Melanie Karsak can manipulate my emotions. Her mind and wordsmithing is pure gold. This story that she has woven has had me in laughter, tears, anger, and fear only to come out the other side with a deep seated craving for more. This tale of Boudica is an absolute masterpiece. I can only warn you to beware…you will become as ensnared as I am. I loved devouring this book beyond words.
June 1, 2022
I really like that with every scene and emotion written, the sense of honour and duty shine through. Boudica's world is uncertain - the Romans, Prasutagus, Caratacus... just who is or can be the best ally? Will her uncle become the king she can look up to? Can the people be saved from the invading army?
Will the promised made be kept? With all of this confusion, just what choices do she really have? Book 2 in the series.
Will the promised made be kept? With all of this confusion, just what choices do she really have? Book 2 in the series.
June 16, 2022
I could not put this book down! I was riveted to my screen and was cranky with anything that tried to tear me away 😂 Of course, I was sad when I got to the last page and realized it will be sometime before I could get the next one 😭
I can't wait to find out what happens next! I mean, I know what happens historically and I know I'm going to cry a lot, but I still can't wait to read Karsak's version of the tale! I hope there is a follow up series as has been hinted at in the story.
I can't wait to find out what happens next! I mean, I know what happens historically and I know I'm going to cry a lot, but I still can't wait to read Karsak's version of the tale! I hope there is a follow up series as has been hinted at in the story.
September 7, 2022
I did not know that Boudica was a real person. I always assumed she was a mythological being, so I looked her up and to my surprise she was real. There are many stories written including her, but they are fantasies. Now I have to wait until next year to read the next installment of this series. I now know that all does not end well and I am eager to see how the next book handles what happened in real life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews