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Pictish Conspiracy #1
A Painted Winter
In the misty highlands of fourth century Scotland, two Pictish brothers conspire with the Ancient People from beyond the Great Wall to attack the Romans.
Roman power in Britannia is weakening. Brothers Brei and Taran, Princes and warriors of a Pictish Kingdom, seek revenge against the Romans for attacking their city, killing their father, and taking their mother as a slave. The sudden arrival of Sorsha, a mysterious woman with an incredible gift, sets the brothers on a path to warfare.
A Painted Winter is book one of the four-part Pictish Conspiracy series. H. Barnard's debut novel blends historical fiction and Celtic mythology in a thrilling adventure that will leave you wondering who the real barbarians are ....
Roman power in Britannia is weakening. Brothers Brei and Taran, Princes and warriors of a Pictish Kingdom, seek revenge against the Romans for attacking their city, killing their father, and taking their mother as a slave. The sudden arrival of Sorsha, a mysterious woman with an incredible gift, sets the brothers on a path to warfare.
A Painted Winter is book one of the four-part Pictish Conspiracy series. H. Barnard's debut novel blends historical fiction and Celtic mythology in a thrilling adventure that will leave you wondering who the real barbarians are ....
340 pages, Paperback
First published December 21, 2021
7 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
H. Barnard
2 books19 followersH. (Helena) Barnard is a historical fiction author. Born in Australia, Helena now resides in northern England, at the foot of Hadrian’s Wall. A Painted Winter is her debut novel and is book one of the four-part Pictish Conspiracy series. Helena has a passion for history and archaeology, particularly in relation to iron age and medieval Britain. As a historical fiction writer, she focuses on shining a light on lesser-known fascinating moments in history and bringing these moments to life for readers. Helena was previously a practising lawyer, with a Master of Laws (LLM), Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Bachelor of Arts.
Instagram: @helenareadsandwrites
Instagram: @helenareadsandwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
January 1, 2022
Set in the fourth century in Scotland, two Pictish bothers with the help of the ancient people conspire to attack the Romans and seek revenge for the attack happens six winters ago in their land.
The arrival of a mysterious woman with incredible power, Sorsha, set the two brothers on a path of warfare.
This is the first book of the Pictish conspiracy series and while at the beginning I struggled to keep up with the many characters and villages introduced, I ultimately enjoyed more than I thought I would.
I honestly couldn’t put it down, the story was fast paced. Full of suspence and I was completely invested in knowing how the character development would pan out.
Taran intrigued me and I am keen to read the second book to know if the allegations made by Serene are accurate.
Sorsha and Brei, which are the two main characters, and whom POVs have been used by the author to bring the story to life have been definitely the characters that have been developed more.
Excellent #firstbook in the series, can’t wait to discover what happens next.
The arrival of a mysterious woman with incredible power, Sorsha, set the two brothers on a path of warfare.
This is the first book of the Pictish conspiracy series and while at the beginning I struggled to keep up with the many characters and villages introduced, I ultimately enjoyed more than I thought I would.
I honestly couldn’t put it down, the story was fast paced. Full of suspence and I was completely invested in knowing how the character development would pan out.
Taran intrigued me and I am keen to read the second book to know if the allegations made by Serene are accurate.
Sorsha and Brei, which are the two main characters, and whom POVs have been used by the author to bring the story to life have been definitely the characters that have been developed more.
Excellent #firstbook in the series, can’t wait to discover what happens next.
January 6, 2022
"Revenge or Tirscath!"
I received an advanced copy of the book from the publisher. As an archaeologist based in Scotland, I was extremely excited to read this book. Set during the 4th century CE, the story follows two Pictish brothers, Brei and Taran, who seek to avenge their home against Roman subjugation. But it is when they stumble across Sorsha, a woman with a interesting destiny, that sets them on a path of vengeance and warfare.
I found this book to be a great blend of history and fiction. Many stories regarding the Picts were only written by their rivals, so it is an interesting take on a piece of the past that is rarely seen from the Painted People's perspective. The author takes aspects of archaeological and historical sources, brushes them with fiction, to make a full, interesting and dynamic world. For me, seeing these artefacts, carved stones, hillforts, and settlements come to life within the creative eye of H. Barnard was the cherry on top. The archaeologist inside of me was doing giddy dances whenever I recognised a Pictish stone or landmark.
I also enjoyed the characters throughout this book. Each character was distinctive in their own way, with their own motivations, fears, and experiences. I particularly found the character of Brei to be the most interesting. He is someone I think many people will relate to, teetering on the edge of duty and desire. He and Sorsha are the main protagonists of the book and the story intertwines with both of their perspectives extremely well.
The book moves at quite a fast pace, keeping the story moving from chapter to chapter. Although some parts could have lingered a little longer, I wasn't disappointed in this fact. I felt the book needed that pace to not only build character development, but to leave a little lingering doubt about each character's motivations in the mind of the reader. And boy, was I glad for it. I finished it in just under two day and at one point screamed. The last 60 pages are an absolute whirlwind!
For the first in the series, H. Barnard has done well to balance the rich world-building that is required of a first book (and to introduce the idiosyncrasies of 4th century Pictland to a mainstream audience), while chasing the actions of her characters and their motivations. The book has a great sense of unknown, mystery, and just a hint of mythology in there. I would definitely recommend this novel for anyone who is interested in Pictish history, as it deals with a wee pocket of the past that is relative unexplored, and for those who wish for an easy read with a bit of bite.
Super excited for the next book!
I received an advanced copy of the book from the publisher. As an archaeologist based in Scotland, I was extremely excited to read this book. Set during the 4th century CE, the story follows two Pictish brothers, Brei and Taran, who seek to avenge their home against Roman subjugation. But it is when they stumble across Sorsha, a woman with a interesting destiny, that sets them on a path of vengeance and warfare.
I found this book to be a great blend of history and fiction. Many stories regarding the Picts were only written by their rivals, so it is an interesting take on a piece of the past that is rarely seen from the Painted People's perspective. The author takes aspects of archaeological and historical sources, brushes them with fiction, to make a full, interesting and dynamic world. For me, seeing these artefacts, carved stones, hillforts, and settlements come to life within the creative eye of H. Barnard was the cherry on top. The archaeologist inside of me was doing giddy dances whenever I recognised a Pictish stone or landmark.
I also enjoyed the characters throughout this book. Each character was distinctive in their own way, with their own motivations, fears, and experiences. I particularly found the character of Brei to be the most interesting. He is someone I think many people will relate to, teetering on the edge of duty and desire. He and Sorsha are the main protagonists of the book and the story intertwines with both of their perspectives extremely well.
The book moves at quite a fast pace, keeping the story moving from chapter to chapter. Although some parts could have lingered a little longer, I wasn't disappointed in this fact. I felt the book needed that pace to not only build character development, but to leave a little lingering doubt about each character's motivations in the mind of the reader. And boy, was I glad for it. I finished it in just under two day and at one point screamed. The last 60 pages are an absolute whirlwind!
For the first in the series, H. Barnard has done well to balance the rich world-building that is required of a first book (and to introduce the idiosyncrasies of 4th century Pictland to a mainstream audience), while chasing the actions of her characters and their motivations. The book has a great sense of unknown, mystery, and just a hint of mythology in there. I would definitely recommend this novel for anyone who is interested in Pictish history, as it deals with a wee pocket of the past that is relative unexplored, and for those who wish for an easy read with a bit of bite.
Super excited for the next book!
December 19, 2022
I was lucky enough to win a copy of this book back in the summer and decided to save it for the cold winter nights and I am so pleased I did. This is the first book in a four part series, of which the second book is out next year.
Set in the late fourth century, this story focuses on the ongoing battle between the Romans and the Pictish community. Dividing these two communities is the Great Wall, now known as Hadrian’s Wall and after learning some new information Pictish brothers Brei and Taran decide it’s time to take their revenge on the Roman’s. Six years previous their village was attacked, many were killed and their mother was taken by the Roman’s so you can understand their need for revenge.
Running alongside this we also have Sorsha’s story. A young woman with an incredible gift, turns up in the Pictish community and starts to put together the puzzle of why she is there. Scared for her own life she decides to conceal certain things about herself and she is soon being mentored by Serren, the local healer and medicine woman.
I loved Sorsha and her entire storyline, the mystery and the magical element were my favourites parts. Her struggle to come to terms with her new situation but her forgiveness and understanding of others showed just how genuine she was. I’m intrigued to see what happens next for her and how things develop between herself and the two brothers.
Earlier this year I completed the Hadrain’s Wall Walk so to read about it’s history brought back so many lovely memories of being on that trail. I have to say H. Barnard has done a fantastic job in terms of research and setting the scene, I could easily picture the Pictish communities and areas such as London, Bath and Cirencester. The historical information was littered throughout the pages without being overwhelming.
All in all this was a beautiful read with a powerful story line. Seeped in history, culture and magic this was a joy to read from cover to cover. We are left on a mini cliff hanger so I shall be getting a copy of the second book asap as I need to know what happens next!
Set in the late fourth century, this story focuses on the ongoing battle between the Romans and the Pictish community. Dividing these two communities is the Great Wall, now known as Hadrian’s Wall and after learning some new information Pictish brothers Brei and Taran decide it’s time to take their revenge on the Roman’s. Six years previous their village was attacked, many were killed and their mother was taken by the Roman’s so you can understand their need for revenge.
Running alongside this we also have Sorsha’s story. A young woman with an incredible gift, turns up in the Pictish community and starts to put together the puzzle of why she is there. Scared for her own life she decides to conceal certain things about herself and she is soon being mentored by Serren, the local healer and medicine woman.
I loved Sorsha and her entire storyline, the mystery and the magical element were my favourites parts. Her struggle to come to terms with her new situation but her forgiveness and understanding of others showed just how genuine she was. I’m intrigued to see what happens next for her and how things develop between herself and the two brothers.
Earlier this year I completed the Hadrain’s Wall Walk so to read about it’s history brought back so many lovely memories of being on that trail. I have to say H. Barnard has done a fantastic job in terms of research and setting the scene, I could easily picture the Pictish communities and areas such as London, Bath and Cirencester. The historical information was littered throughout the pages without being overwhelming.
All in all this was a beautiful read with a powerful story line. Seeped in history, culture and magic this was a joy to read from cover to cover. We are left on a mini cliff hanger so I shall be getting a copy of the second book asap as I need to know what happens next!
November 28, 2021
I received and advanced copy of the book from the publisher and enjoyed it immensely. The mixture of history, mythology and fantasy was perfectly blended to created a unique world unlike anything I've ever read before.
The characters feel real and complex. The main character (Sorsha) in particular develops and matures enormously throughout the book, making her very relatable. The relationships between the characters were interesting and engaging from the very first page and continued in that way throughout the entire novel.
I particularly enjoyed the way the lifestyles of the different races were explored and depicted, giving the book a deeply authentic feel.
The end of the book left me desperate for more and I am very excited for the next enstallment.
The characters feel real and complex. The main character (Sorsha) in particular develops and matures enormously throughout the book, making her very relatable. The relationships between the characters were interesting and engaging from the very first page and continued in that way throughout the entire novel.
I particularly enjoyed the way the lifestyles of the different races were explored and depicted, giving the book a deeply authentic feel.
The end of the book left me desperate for more and I am very excited for the next enstallment.
January 3, 2022
I quite enjoyed this read. It starts off slowly as it builds up the world and introduces you to the characters, but the chapters toward the end of the book become more fast paced and exciting.
It is mainly read from Brie and Sorcha's point of view and from their different situations.
A fun fantasy/mythical/historical fiction mix that has started this series off on the right foot.
I really liked Sorcha's character and her growth throughout the book. I twigged early on about Serenn, but I can't decide the route that Brie might take.
I look forward to reading the next in the series when it's available!
It is mainly read from Brie and Sorcha's point of view and from their different situations.
A fun fantasy/mythical/historical fiction mix that has started this series off on the right foot.
I really liked Sorcha's character and her growth throughout the book. I twigged early on about Serenn, but I can't decide the route that Brie might take.
I look forward to reading the next in the series when it's available!
January 4, 2022
Thank you @readthebooktours for allowing me to be a part of this book tour. I feel honoured to be able to share my thoughts on this 5 star read! My last read of 2021 and first review of 2022.
Enthralling! A perfect balance of mystery, intrigue, battle scenes, historical and cultural events.
A Painted Winter surprised me. Here is a book set in 4th Century Scotland. I am often hesitant that historical novels set in this time are filled with battle scenes. A Painted Winter was pleasantly surprising. I loved it!! It had just the right amount of battle scenes and when it did, they were not too confronting.
I loved the characters in this novel. Sorscha arrives unexpectedly to the Kingdom of Caledon. She is mysterious and brings magic to the story. Caledon is a town the Romans invaded, killing people and taking others as slaves. Two Pictish brothers, Brei and Taran, have different views and ideals, however they both seek revenge against the Romans. H Barnard's descriptions of the towns and villages drew me in. My favourite part of the novel is Sorscha's trip to her hometown. This trip provides answers and important information to the reader. Each and every description of a town is a feast for the senses. I pictured myself in the hot springs relaxing and in the marketplace exploring the items for sale.
As a historical fiction this novel brought to light Roman Britain history and the people known as the Painted people or Picts. I was interested to learn a lot throughout the novel and in the author's notes at the end. I also enjoyed reading about Celtic mythology.
The romance in the novel is authentic. The romances touch on a range of emotions and feelings, including love, devastation, concern, empathy and hope. I look forward to book 2 so that I can read more of the connections made in book 1.
A Painted Winter is a book I could not put down. H Barnard is a talented author who has left me wanting to read more of her work. I can't wait for book 2!
Thank you to for allowing me to be a part of this Book Tour. Congratulations to H Barnard on this page turner! What a start to the series!
Enthralling! A perfect balance of mystery, intrigue, battle scenes, historical and cultural events.
A Painted Winter surprised me. Here is a book set in 4th Century Scotland. I am often hesitant that historical novels set in this time are filled with battle scenes. A Painted Winter was pleasantly surprising. I loved it!! It had just the right amount of battle scenes and when it did, they were not too confronting.
I loved the characters in this novel. Sorscha arrives unexpectedly to the Kingdom of Caledon. She is mysterious and brings magic to the story. Caledon is a town the Romans invaded, killing people and taking others as slaves. Two Pictish brothers, Brei and Taran, have different views and ideals, however they both seek revenge against the Romans. H Barnard's descriptions of the towns and villages drew me in. My favourite part of the novel is Sorscha's trip to her hometown. This trip provides answers and important information to the reader. Each and every description of a town is a feast for the senses. I pictured myself in the hot springs relaxing and in the marketplace exploring the items for sale.
As a historical fiction this novel brought to light Roman Britain history and the people known as the Painted people or Picts. I was interested to learn a lot throughout the novel and in the author's notes at the end. I also enjoyed reading about Celtic mythology.
The romance in the novel is authentic. The romances touch on a range of emotions and feelings, including love, devastation, concern, empathy and hope. I look forward to book 2 so that I can read more of the connections made in book 1.
A Painted Winter is a book I could not put down. H Barnard is a talented author who has left me wanting to read more of her work. I can't wait for book 2!
Thank you to for allowing me to be a part of this Book Tour. Congratulations to H Barnard on this page turner! What a start to the series!
January 3, 2022
I ended up loving this book so much and now I want to read the next one in the series
A Painted Winter is book one of the four-part Pictish Conspiracy Series. H. Barnard's debut novel blends historical fiction and Celtic mythology in a thrilling adventure that will leave you wondering who the real barbarians are ....
I got so immersed in the series and fell in love with the writing style. A Painted Winter tells a story of family, revenge and mistrust
The characters are well created. I definitely enjoyed reading about Sorsha and the way she grew and developed as a character within the story
A Painted Winter is book one of the four-part Pictish Conspiracy Series. H. Barnard's debut novel blends historical fiction and Celtic mythology in a thrilling adventure that will leave you wondering who the real barbarians are ....
I got so immersed in the series and fell in love with the writing style. A Painted Winter tells a story of family, revenge and mistrust
The characters are well created. I definitely enjoyed reading about Sorsha and the way she grew and developed as a character within the story
December 31, 2021
Really enjoyed this story of family, revenge and mistrust. Such fascinating history of the dark ages with magic and mystery both coveted and viewed with distrust. I really enjoyed getting to know Brei and Taran and their relationships with eachother and the other Princes and Kings. Sorsha is a fascinating character- learning to come to terms with her own self she is inspiring and mysterious. The amount of research undertaken for this story must have been huge and I’ve really enjoyed learning about the Celtic myths and legends. I can’t wait to read the next instalment in The Pictish Conspiracy.
January 4, 2022
Great opener to the series
Awesome world building and characters; a great opener to the series. I can’t wait for the second book to come out!!
Awesome world building and characters; a great opener to the series. I can’t wait for the second book to come out!!
December 20, 2021
A Painted Winter is book one of the four-part Pictish Conspiracy series and it’s also H. Barnard’s debut novel. It combines historical fiction and Celtic mythology, so I think it’s fair to say that it fits in the historical fantasy genre.
It takes place in 4th century ancient Scotland, while the Roman Empire has extended until Hadrian’s wall. As Roman power begins to weaken, two Pictish brothers with royal blood, Taran and Brei, seek the opportunity to revenge the attack on their city, which took the life of their uncle and their father, and turned their mother into a slave, causing much loss and suffering. When they found a strange and gifted woman, Sorsha, in a stone circle close to Caercaled (their city), several forces are set in motion.
The story is told from Brei’s and Sorsha’s POV’s: Brei is a Pictish prince and Sorsha is a romanised Britain. I found very interesting to learn about the fears, the mistrust and the prejudices that are felt both ways. As the book evolves, there’s also a great character growth specially from Sorsha, while she considers what and who really is barbaric.
I also felt that the book world is very well researched and brought to life. The reader can find several author’s notes on many historical and mythological aspects from the Pictish culture in the final pages of this book.
I really enjoyed reading this first installment and I’m looking forward to knowing what is going to happen next.
It takes place in 4th century ancient Scotland, while the Roman Empire has extended until Hadrian’s wall. As Roman power begins to weaken, two Pictish brothers with royal blood, Taran and Brei, seek the opportunity to revenge the attack on their city, which took the life of their uncle and their father, and turned their mother into a slave, causing much loss and suffering. When they found a strange and gifted woman, Sorsha, in a stone circle close to Caercaled (their city), several forces are set in motion.
The story is told from Brei’s and Sorsha’s POV’s: Brei is a Pictish prince and Sorsha is a romanised Britain. I found very interesting to learn about the fears, the mistrust and the prejudices that are felt both ways. As the book evolves, there’s also a great character growth specially from Sorsha, while she considers what and who really is barbaric.
I also felt that the book world is very well researched and brought to life. The reader can find several author’s notes on many historical and mythological aspects from the Pictish culture in the final pages of this book.
I really enjoyed reading this first installment and I’m looking forward to knowing what is going to happen next.
December 28, 2021
Blog Tour - review will be posted 4/01/22
February 20, 2022
The highlands of fourth century Scotland. Cold, misty, unforgiving and harsh. Animals can survive under the most strenuous of environments year after year. But can man do the same in such a volatile place?
Two Pictish brothers busy themselves conspiring with those Ancients from beyond the Great Wall, all in aid of being able to amass an attack against the Romans but as they will learn, this may be an unreachable goal as planning and executing such things are two very different experiences…
The once-powerful Roman hold is now weakening and withering in Britannica for such shifts in power are inevitable yet maybe the grasp on the land isn’t quite ready to relinquish what it holds so dear.
Brei and Taran, Princes and warriors of a Pictish Kingdom, seek revenge against the barbaric Romans for attacking and sullying their city, slaughtering their father and enslaving their mother, sending everything into disarray and forcing them to grow up whether they are ready or not, but as they wage war against those who have done so many horrific acts, the brothers realise maybe there are battles closer to home which must be settled first, and after the arrival of Sorsha, a mysterious woman with an incredible gift, she sets the brothers on the path of warfare, revenge and bloodshed but just what truths lie behind her motivations and where did this ethereal being come from exactly, with her own knowledge impeded and cloudy upon being discovered naked and alone, seemingly innocent but she cannot hide her true intentions forever.
Bold, observant and magical, book one of the Pictish Conspiracy series kicks off with a beautiful blend of family politics, bloody battles and asks the question of just who can you trust when you must go against that which you fear the most?
Two Pictish brothers busy themselves conspiring with those Ancients from beyond the Great Wall, all in aid of being able to amass an attack against the Romans but as they will learn, this may be an unreachable goal as planning and executing such things are two very different experiences…
The once-powerful Roman hold is now weakening and withering in Britannica for such shifts in power are inevitable yet maybe the grasp on the land isn’t quite ready to relinquish what it holds so dear.
Brei and Taran, Princes and warriors of a Pictish Kingdom, seek revenge against the barbaric Romans for attacking and sullying their city, slaughtering their father and enslaving their mother, sending everything into disarray and forcing them to grow up whether they are ready or not, but as they wage war against those who have done so many horrific acts, the brothers realise maybe there are battles closer to home which must be settled first, and after the arrival of Sorsha, a mysterious woman with an incredible gift, she sets the brothers on the path of warfare, revenge and bloodshed but just what truths lie behind her motivations and where did this ethereal being come from exactly, with her own knowledge impeded and cloudy upon being discovered naked and alone, seemingly innocent but she cannot hide her true intentions forever.
Bold, observant and magical, book one of the Pictish Conspiracy series kicks off with a beautiful blend of family politics, bloody battles and asks the question of just who can you trust when you must go against that which you fear the most?
December 15, 2021
I adore Celtic mythology so I jumped at the chance when offered to get a pre-release copy. It didn't disappoint. I love the scenes with the Druwydds and the Celtic festivals like Beltane and Imbolc. Even though there is a fantasy/magic element, I thought the author was really respectful of the Pictish people and their beliefs and you can tell a lot of history research has gone into it. The book ended on a cliff hanger and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book!
November 9, 2021
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher, and they asked me to leave an honest review in return. I’m new to Goodreads but here goes. A Painted Winter is well researched historical fiction set in Roman Britain the 4th century and is told from two alternating perspectives: Brei- a Pictish prince and Sorsha- a Romanised native Britain who has found herself in the Pictish lands. The book is fast paced, at times an adventure quest, and at others it is about warfare and vengeance. It also incorporates a lot of Celtic mythology, and magic bringing it into the realm of historical fantasy. I enjoyed the scenes about the Celtic festivals of Beltane and Imbolc. Something that I particularly liked was the strong character development. Both Brei and Sorsha are quite tortured and they grow a lot as the book progresses, but as it is a series their ‘issues’ are not resolved in the end but I found myself wanting to know what happens next, especially to Taran. I understand that this is a debut novel from the author and I think it’ s a good first book. Sometimes the pacing was a little too fast when I wanted to savour the scenes and there are a lot of characters to remember so at times I was flicking back to remember everyone’s names. But these are minor in the scheme of things, overall I enjoyed the book. Thanks.
January 31, 2022
As soon as I saw this was set in the fourth century I felt I needed to read it. At the time I was obsessed with historical fiction and so I thought this would be a great one to delve into as this period is hardly ever covered in the books I read.
I went into this story knowing next to nothing about the Pictish people, but have since been googling and watching documentaries to learn more. 🖤
What this story brings though, is a touch of mystery and mythology surrounding the Scottish highlands - which to my surprise connected to Wales in many ways. Anything Celtic really interests me as I'm Welsh and speak the Welsh language fluently. Words and phrases used in this book didn't trouble me at all as I understood their meanings easily.
The writing here is quick, action packed and the characters are always on the move onto the next mission, there's no dilly dallying.
Sorsha is a fantastic add to the mix and makes the story what it is, a kind of Game Of Thrones mixed with Practical Magic. 🖤
I went into this story knowing next to nothing about the Pictish people, but have since been googling and watching documentaries to learn more. 🖤
What this story brings though, is a touch of mystery and mythology surrounding the Scottish highlands - which to my surprise connected to Wales in many ways. Anything Celtic really interests me as I'm Welsh and speak the Welsh language fluently. Words and phrases used in this book didn't trouble me at all as I understood their meanings easily.
The writing here is quick, action packed and the characters are always on the move onto the next mission, there's no dilly dallying.
Sorsha is a fantastic add to the mix and makes the story what it is, a kind of Game Of Thrones mixed with Practical Magic. 🖤
Read
January 4, 2022In English:
‘A Painted Winter’ blends historical fiction and Celtic religion and mythology such as the ceremony in which a white-clad druid climbed an oak to cut down the mistletoe and the seasonal feast Imbolc associated with the fire goddess Brigit.
In addition, there are important pagan and Celtic traditions as feasting, when the elite had the opportunity to display social status and the best cuts of meat were reserved for the greatest warrior present, and handfasting, a ritual in which the hands are tied together to symbolise the binding of two people. Besides, we can learn about the way of life in Roman Britain, where its villas had painted walls and mosaic floors and there was the famous temple of Aquae Sulis with its sacred waters dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva.
'Painted’ makes reference to woad, a blue pigment with which Picts used to paint their bodies. At the end of the book, there is useful information about the history of Roman Britain and the Picts, about matrilineal succession among the Picts and about the linguistic choice of characters’ names.
If you enjoy historical fiction and Celtic mythology, I recommend ‘A Painted Winter’!
In Portuguese (Brazil):
“A Painted Winter” é uma ficção que se passa, no século 4 d.C., entre as Terras Altas da Escócia, onde vivem tribos de pictos não dominadas pelo império romano, e a Britannia, província na qual o poder de Roma começa a enfraquecer. Brei e Taran, irmãos guerreiros de uma dessas tribos, nutrem um sentimento de vingança desde que os romanos mataram seu pai e capturaram sua mãe. A chegada da misteriosa Sorsha ao reino dos pictos impulsiona os irmãos a planejarem, finalmente, a guerra contra os romanos.
O livro mistura fantasia, história e elementos da mitologia e da religião dos celtas como druidas e druidesas, o ritual mágico de colheita do visco e o festival Imbolc dedicado à deusa Brigid. Estão presentes importantes tradições pagãs como o festim promovido pela nobreza em que os guerreiros se vangloriavam das vitórias em batalhas e o ‘handfasting’, cerimônia na qual o casal têm as mãos unidas por uma fita. Também temos a oportunidade de conhecer a vida na Britannia romanizada com seus belos mosaicos nas casas romanas e o famoso templo de águas termais de Aquae Sulis, símbolo da junção entre a religião bretã e a romana no culto à deusa Sulis Minerva.
Em “A Painted Winter”, ‘painted’ faz referência ao costume de várias tribos das Ilhas Britânicas, como os pictos, de pintarem o corpo com um pigmento azul. ‘Winter’ é o inverno, quando tem início a trama e a personagem Sorsha, perseguida por soldados romanos que tentam assassiná-la, busca refúgio num círculo de pedra e descobre que possui um dom mágico.
Ao final do livro, há informações históricas sobre a Britannia, sobre os pictos a sucessão matrilinear entre eles e a também há uma explicação linguística sobre a escolha do nome das personagens.
Este é o primeiro de uma série de 4 livros escrita por H Barnard, uma autora australiana que mora, atualmente, no norte da Inglaterra.
‘A Painted Winter’ blends historical fiction and Celtic religion and mythology such as the ceremony in which a white-clad druid climbed an oak to cut down the mistletoe and the seasonal feast Imbolc associated with the fire goddess Brigit.
In addition, there are important pagan and Celtic traditions as feasting, when the elite had the opportunity to display social status and the best cuts of meat were reserved for the greatest warrior present, and handfasting, a ritual in which the hands are tied together to symbolise the binding of two people. Besides, we can learn about the way of life in Roman Britain, where its villas had painted walls and mosaic floors and there was the famous temple of Aquae Sulis with its sacred waters dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva.
'Painted’ makes reference to woad, a blue pigment with which Picts used to paint their bodies. At the end of the book, there is useful information about the history of Roman Britain and the Picts, about matrilineal succession among the Picts and about the linguistic choice of characters’ names.
If you enjoy historical fiction and Celtic mythology, I recommend ‘A Painted Winter’!
In Portuguese (Brazil):
“A Painted Winter” é uma ficção que se passa, no século 4 d.C., entre as Terras Altas da Escócia, onde vivem tribos de pictos não dominadas pelo império romano, e a Britannia, província na qual o poder de Roma começa a enfraquecer. Brei e Taran, irmãos guerreiros de uma dessas tribos, nutrem um sentimento de vingança desde que os romanos mataram seu pai e capturaram sua mãe. A chegada da misteriosa Sorsha ao reino dos pictos impulsiona os irmãos a planejarem, finalmente, a guerra contra os romanos.
O livro mistura fantasia, história e elementos da mitologia e da religião dos celtas como druidas e druidesas, o ritual mágico de colheita do visco e o festival Imbolc dedicado à deusa Brigid. Estão presentes importantes tradições pagãs como o festim promovido pela nobreza em que os guerreiros se vangloriavam das vitórias em batalhas e o ‘handfasting’, cerimônia na qual o casal têm as mãos unidas por uma fita. Também temos a oportunidade de conhecer a vida na Britannia romanizada com seus belos mosaicos nas casas romanas e o famoso templo de águas termais de Aquae Sulis, símbolo da junção entre a religião bretã e a romana no culto à deusa Sulis Minerva.
Em “A Painted Winter”, ‘painted’ faz referência ao costume de várias tribos das Ilhas Britânicas, como os pictos, de pintarem o corpo com um pigmento azul. ‘Winter’ é o inverno, quando tem início a trama e a personagem Sorsha, perseguida por soldados romanos que tentam assassiná-la, busca refúgio num círculo de pedra e descobre que possui um dom mágico.
Ao final do livro, há informações históricas sobre a Britannia, sobre os pictos a sucessão matrilinear entre eles e a também há uma explicação linguística sobre a escolha do nome das personagens.
Este é o primeiro de uma série de 4 livros escrita por H Barnard, uma autora australiana que mora, atualmente, no norte da Inglaterra.
January 9, 2022
Headlines:
Mysterious and magical
Druidic powers
It's grim up north
I am not experienced in politics or warfare, but it seems to me that we first create a barbarian, an enemy, and then we take away their lands.
A Painted Winter was impressively easy to read for what could have been quite a heavy historical read, but wasn't. I've found myself drawn to this era of history through a few books in the last year such as Gawain, Daughter of the Forest and The Look of a King. The Pictish/English divide and a more ancient time in history where powers of the earth were harnessed through druids is pretty fascinating.
This story was a dual POV told from a Pictish Prince Brei and a lost but found woman from the south, Sorsha. I was much more drawn to Sorsha's story, her POV but we needed Brei's perspective for the grand plot of the tale. Brei wasn't a character I liked, I was much more interested in Taran. Other sketchy characters included Serenn and Anwen.
I couldn't help but internally cheer for Sorsha as she came into her gifts, felt more empowered and followed her path. She was strong and a fascinating character, I think there's so much more to her yet that the reader doesn't know and I look forward to reading more about her.
This read felt well researched and immersed you in Pictish life with some later Roman perspective. The historical elements were incredibly strong. I think my other reading in this era helped my understanding of the druid workings, even though in this book, they were depicted rather nefariously.
All in all, this has been a great debut and I definitely want to read more. Thank you to Shadowfax Publishing and InstaBookTours for the review copy.
Mysterious and magical
Druidic powers
It's grim up north
I am not experienced in politics or warfare, but it seems to me that we first create a barbarian, an enemy, and then we take away their lands.
A Painted Winter was impressively easy to read for what could have been quite a heavy historical read, but wasn't. I've found myself drawn to this era of history through a few books in the last year such as Gawain, Daughter of the Forest and The Look of a King. The Pictish/English divide and a more ancient time in history where powers of the earth were harnessed through druids is pretty fascinating.
This story was a dual POV told from a Pictish Prince Brei and a lost but found woman from the south, Sorsha. I was much more drawn to Sorsha's story, her POV but we needed Brei's perspective for the grand plot of the tale. Brei wasn't a character I liked, I was much more interested in Taran. Other sketchy characters included Serenn and Anwen.
I couldn't help but internally cheer for Sorsha as she came into her gifts, felt more empowered and followed her path. She was strong and a fascinating character, I think there's so much more to her yet that the reader doesn't know and I look forward to reading more about her.
This read felt well researched and immersed you in Pictish life with some later Roman perspective. The historical elements were incredibly strong. I think my other reading in this era helped my understanding of the druid workings, even though in this book, they were depicted rather nefariously.
All in all, this has been a great debut and I definitely want to read more. Thank you to Shadowfax Publishing and InstaBookTours for the review copy.
January 2, 2022
I was totally absorbed in The Painted Winter, as a history buff of this place and time. H. Barnard has woven an atmospheric tale, full of historical detail.
Her descriptions of the ancient woods, stone circles, lakes, and mountains of Northern Scotland made me feel like I was there, trudging through the snow in my fur-lined cape.
Reading what London, Bath, and Cirencester would have looked like nearly two thousand years ago was also wonderful, as was the detail in what people would have been wearing, eating, who they would have prayed to and what they were living in.
As a history and fantasy fan it was so good to find these two genres combined in a novel, especially for a time period that doesn't feature often. If you like to read historical fiction, but are tired of reading about the Second World War or Henry VIII, or you like to watch shows like Vikings and The Last Kingdom, then I recommend this book to you.
I will definitely be reading on to find out what happens next for Brei, Taran and Sorsha.
Her descriptions of the ancient woods, stone circles, lakes, and mountains of Northern Scotland made me feel like I was there, trudging through the snow in my fur-lined cape.
Reading what London, Bath, and Cirencester would have looked like nearly two thousand years ago was also wonderful, as was the detail in what people would have been wearing, eating, who they would have prayed to and what they were living in.
As a history and fantasy fan it was so good to find these two genres combined in a novel, especially for a time period that doesn't feature often. If you like to read historical fiction, but are tired of reading about the Second World War or Henry VIII, or you like to watch shows like Vikings and The Last Kingdom, then I recommend this book to you.
I will definitely be reading on to find out what happens next for Brei, Taran and Sorsha.
December 13, 2021
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Thank you Shadowfax Publishing for this book in exchange for an honest review
In a painted Winter you meet two brothers, Brei and Taran who are desperate to seek revenge after their city was attacked and their parents taken into slavery. There was an intense mix of history and fantasy that built this tale into a grand adventure. It was interesting to pause half way through the book and google the many different locations mentioned in this book to enhance the story.
The characters were independent with strong motivations, fears and dreams that band them together. It’s always more interesting when character’s desires intertwine effectively.
Overall it was an great read and would be perfect for history buffs!
Bookstagram
Website
Thank you Shadowfax Publishing for this book in exchange for an honest review
In a painted Winter you meet two brothers, Brei and Taran who are desperate to seek revenge after their city was attacked and their parents taken into slavery. There was an intense mix of history and fantasy that built this tale into a grand adventure. It was interesting to pause half way through the book and google the many different locations mentioned in this book to enhance the story.
The characters were independent with strong motivations, fears and dreams that band them together. It’s always more interesting when character’s desires intertwine effectively.
Overall it was an great read and would be perfect for history buffs!
February 12, 2022
Do you know who the Picts were?
The Picts were those who populated Scotland around the North East in the early middle ages - they are a group that not much writing exists from so most stories about them do tend to come from opposing populates or historian hypothesis. This book therefore was a little gem in terms of offering insight, albeit fictional, into a perhaps underrepresented group of history.
Setting the scene of a novel in a historical period is always a hit or miss thing for me as a reader - I can't visualise places or scenes, therefore I often struggle to immerse myself in the story. A Painted Winter had the correct balance, for me, between plot and setting so that I was able to lose myself in the narrative.
I found the main characters really enticing - Brei in particular had my heart from the start when he was struggling to choose between his desire and his destiny. Sorcha, our secondary narrative perspective, is intriguing from the offset. The juxtaposition in these characters works really well. I did find the number of characters overwhelming to begin with but that feeling settled as I explored the story.
This novel has left me really intrigued to read what comes next in the series.
Thanks so much to for my beautiful copy of this book in exchange for my thoughts.
The Picts were those who populated Scotland around the North East in the early middle ages - they are a group that not much writing exists from so most stories about them do tend to come from opposing populates or historian hypothesis. This book therefore was a little gem in terms of offering insight, albeit fictional, into a perhaps underrepresented group of history.
Setting the scene of a novel in a historical period is always a hit or miss thing for me as a reader - I can't visualise places or scenes, therefore I often struggle to immerse myself in the story. A Painted Winter had the correct balance, for me, between plot and setting so that I was able to lose myself in the narrative.
I found the main characters really enticing - Brei in particular had my heart from the start when he was struggling to choose between his desire and his destiny. Sorcha, our secondary narrative perspective, is intriguing from the offset. The juxtaposition in these characters works really well. I did find the number of characters overwhelming to begin with but that feeling settled as I explored the story.
This novel has left me really intrigued to read what comes next in the series.
Thanks so much to for my beautiful copy of this book in exchange for my thoughts.
November 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! First, the idea behind the book is really great. It follows a moment in British history that I was not previously familiar with, and it sets an interesting backdrop for the story.
The characters are quite complex. I took me a while to warm to both the POV characters (Brei and Sorsha), but they evolved throughout the story. I also liked some of the other main characters (in particular Taran and Naoise).
The author does a good job in creating an immersive world. In particular, the Celtic festival scenes were a high point, and I also enjoyed the scenes in Roman Britain.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable read. It had me interested from the very first pages and kept me entertained throughout. Thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy.
The characters are quite complex. I took me a while to warm to both the POV characters (Brei and Sorsha), but they evolved throughout the story. I also liked some of the other main characters (in particular Taran and Naoise).
The author does a good job in creating an immersive world. In particular, the Celtic festival scenes were a high point, and I also enjoyed the scenes in Roman Britain.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable read. It had me interested from the very first pages and kept me entertained throughout. Thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy.
May 25, 2022
I received a free review copy through Booksirens and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
This book has a fantastic concept but certain elements of the execution just weren't my cup of tea. Possibly due to the fact that it's the first in the series, I felt like there was a lot of set-up with relatively little pay-off. At least one of the 'hook' endings for the various plot strands was more of a cliff-hanger, but did generate a little character development.
I feel like the scenery (politically, religiously and semi-geographically) of a fictionalised Late Roman/Pictish Britain both North and South of the Wall was set beautifully (and with excellent explanations and sources in the authors notes), but I would have liked either a little more detail or a little more action. I found it a little too easy to become unmoored from the slow weave of plot threads in the time skips.
Overall a thoughtful and compelling piece of historical fiction, with a dash of mysticism and fantasy, not afraid to challenge our conceptions of history. I'll be on the lookout for Book 2.
This book has a fantastic concept but certain elements of the execution just weren't my cup of tea. Possibly due to the fact that it's the first in the series, I felt like there was a lot of set-up with relatively little pay-off. At least one of the 'hook' endings for the various plot strands was more of a cliff-hanger, but did generate a little character development.
I feel like the scenery (politically, religiously and semi-geographically) of a fictionalised Late Roman/Pictish Britain both North and South of the Wall was set beautifully (and with excellent explanations and sources in the authors notes), but I would have liked either a little more detail or a little more action. I found it a little too easy to become unmoored from the slow weave of plot threads in the time skips.
Overall a thoughtful and compelling piece of historical fiction, with a dash of mysticism and fantasy, not afraid to challenge our conceptions of history. I'll be on the lookout for Book 2.
February 12, 2022
This is a wonderfully immersive novel, and I enjoyed the writing style and the vivid descriptions.
Set in the late fourth century when the Romans controlled south Britannia but could not take what we now know as Scotland from the Pictish People who ferociously defended their land and property. This is when Hadrian’s wall was built to construct a barrier to the lands the Romans had taken.
Brie and Taran, two Pictish brothers and also princes, devote their life to revenge against the Romans for attacking their village, killing their father and taking their mother.
A girl is found in the snow, naked, and not knowing how she got there. Or so she says. Is she a Roman spy?
I’m so glad this is the first of a series as I am ready for the next book now! Characters so well developed they jump off the page, even the not so main characters have their strong personalities.
A fabulous story steeped in mythology and Roman and Pictish historical fiction.
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 23, 2022
This was just WOW! I absolutely loved the descriptive writing, it truly was written fantastically. This has everything in a book that you want and more, especially if you’re partial to a bit of blood and guts.
Loved the characters, there’s some that you love and some you can’t stand, very clever writing.
I was constantly gripped all the way through out the book, which surprised me as there is a lot of information and very descriptive writing to take in.
I loved reading all about the Celtic legends and myths.
Brilliant first book to the new series.
Loved the characters, there’s some that you love and some you can’t stand, very clever writing.
I was constantly gripped all the way through out the book, which surprised me as there is a lot of information and very descriptive writing to take in.
I loved reading all about the Celtic legends and myths.
Brilliant first book to the new series.
January 14, 2022
Excellent! I thoroughly enjoyed this authors imaginative story of the Dark Age. World building was outstanding and character development was well done.
I appreciated the authors notes to further educate me what is known of the Dark Age. It has led me to want to learn more.
I am very much looking forward to the next installment of this series. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I appreciated the authors notes to further educate me what is known of the Dark Age. It has led me to want to learn more.
I am very much looking forward to the next installment of this series. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 10, 2022
I rarely read fiction, my job requires a lot of non-fiction reading. When I do I like to read historical fiction and this was the perfect book. Well written, superb characters and easily digested. Helena is a star of the future.
January 23, 2022
3.5... Maybe 4. I need to have a think about this before writing my review. There was a lot to like but it didn't "spark" for me.
January 5, 2022
I really wanted to like it but...
Coming from the heart of what was once ancient Pictland, I have a keen interest in the Picts. I also enjoy historical fantasy so I pre-ordered the book when it appeared on Amazon. I really wanted to enjoy this book.
The book is set in the backdrop of 'The Great Conspiracy' where the Picts, Irish and Saxons banded together to raid Roman Britannia in A.D. 367.
The premise of the book is great . The idea behind Sorsha, the healer is original. It is challenging to keep up to date with all the new developments in Pictish archaeology - there has been so many new discoveries in the past few years that history is having to be re-written. I believe the author is Australian, although living in the UK, which is another challenge as she will not have the same insights that someone who has lived all their life in the area might have had. For this reason I have given the book 2 stars rather than 1.
I will confess to being a purist when it comes to historical details and it grated that the book was filled with historical inaccuracies- Burghead, Clatchard Craig and Kings Fort at Dunkeld all have Pictish Occupation later than the Time frame of the book. Dunnicaer and Craig Phadraig might have been better choices. Then there is a shepherd named 'Sam', a name that would never have been used until the Picts became Christian. And the line where Sorsha says that 'I am going to use the amenities.' Sigh!
However, I was willing to lay aside my gripes about historical accuracy- after all authors are allowed to use a bit of creative license. I continued reading but found that it was difficult to connect emotionally with the characters, there was a lot of filler that added nothing to the plot line or character development and there were parts of the story which could have been built up more to build tension. In places the storyline falls flat. For instance we know that it is winter when three of the characters wade across a river, later decide that their wet clothes are chafing them, lie naked on the ground and have a mud fight- really! It adds nothing to the story and seems a poor attempt at character development. More tension could have been built by having the characters getting caught in a blizzard and freezing fog as they passed through the mountain passes of the Mounth (Cairngorms). It would have been more realistic.
There is no real development of why the different peoples are uniting against the Romans. As a reader I want to know on a personal level why each of these groups want to join Brei and Taran on their quest.
There are so many emotive issues which screamed to be further developed and central to the story which would have appealed to me, the reader. Brei and Taran are mere boys when their parents are captured or killed. It's lost innocence and having to grow up quickly. Anwen who has been raped by the Romans comes across as whining and more concerned about Brei not visiting her mother. I want her to have redeemable features so that her pain becomes real to me.
Another thing which bugged me was the overuse of references to sweaty arm pits.
I will say that the ending of the book is better than the beginning and I feel that the author does a better job of dealing with emotive issues when Sorsha is trying to free the slaves.
I would recommend reading 'Skin' or 'Song Woman' by fellow Australian author Ilka Tampke, if you want a more realistic and emotive read about the Roman occupation of Britain.
Coming from the heart of what was once ancient Pictland, I have a keen interest in the Picts. I also enjoy historical fantasy so I pre-ordered the book when it appeared on Amazon. I really wanted to enjoy this book.
The book is set in the backdrop of 'The Great Conspiracy' where the Picts, Irish and Saxons banded together to raid Roman Britannia in A.D. 367.
The premise of the book is great . The idea behind Sorsha, the healer is original. It is challenging to keep up to date with all the new developments in Pictish archaeology - there has been so many new discoveries in the past few years that history is having to be re-written. I believe the author is Australian, although living in the UK, which is another challenge as she will not have the same insights that someone who has lived all their life in the area might have had. For this reason I have given the book 2 stars rather than 1.
I will confess to being a purist when it comes to historical details and it grated that the book was filled with historical inaccuracies- Burghead, Clatchard Craig and Kings Fort at Dunkeld all have Pictish Occupation later than the Time frame of the book. Dunnicaer and Craig Phadraig might have been better choices. Then there is a shepherd named 'Sam', a name that would never have been used until the Picts became Christian. And the line where Sorsha says that 'I am going to use the amenities.' Sigh!
However, I was willing to lay aside my gripes about historical accuracy- after all authors are allowed to use a bit of creative license. I continued reading but found that it was difficult to connect emotionally with the characters, there was a lot of filler that added nothing to the plot line or character development and there were parts of the story which could have been built up more to build tension. In places the storyline falls flat. For instance we know that it is winter when three of the characters wade across a river, later decide that their wet clothes are chafing them, lie naked on the ground and have a mud fight- really! It adds nothing to the story and seems a poor attempt at character development. More tension could have been built by having the characters getting caught in a blizzard and freezing fog as they passed through the mountain passes of the Mounth (Cairngorms). It would have been more realistic.
There is no real development of why the different peoples are uniting against the Romans. As a reader I want to know on a personal level why each of these groups want to join Brei and Taran on their quest.
There are so many emotive issues which screamed to be further developed and central to the story which would have appealed to me, the reader. Brei and Taran are mere boys when their parents are captured or killed. It's lost innocence and having to grow up quickly. Anwen who has been raped by the Romans comes across as whining and more concerned about Brei not visiting her mother. I want her to have redeemable features so that her pain becomes real to me.
Another thing which bugged me was the overuse of references to sweaty arm pits.
I will say that the ending of the book is better than the beginning and I feel that the author does a better job of dealing with emotive issues when Sorsha is trying to free the slaves.
I would recommend reading 'Skin' or 'Song Woman' by fellow Australian author Ilka Tampke, if you want a more realistic and emotive read about the Roman occupation of Britain.
December 8, 2021
A Painted Winter is more than a book, it’s a story.
AND, a story not needing the crutches of love interests, warrior chest beating, mythical lands and overly heroic characters.
It’s a story befitting of the times with the author developing the characters, situations and locations all true to the history of the then Britannia.
Every chapter leads the reader in the story of the brothers and Sorsha.
There are moments of suspense, of wonderment, of bawdy humour, of druid folklore, and of native Pictish warriorhood.
For myself I found myself wondering about characters. Liking some, hating others – then changing my mind as I was led deeper into the story.
Always against a background of ancient Britain, warriors, druids and invaders (true to history).
H.Barnard is a true story teller. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next one! Thanks also to the publisher for the advanced copy of this one.
AND, a story not needing the crutches of love interests, warrior chest beating, mythical lands and overly heroic characters.
It’s a story befitting of the times with the author developing the characters, situations and locations all true to the history of the then Britannia.
Every chapter leads the reader in the story of the brothers and Sorsha.
There are moments of suspense, of wonderment, of bawdy humour, of druid folklore, and of native Pictish warriorhood.
For myself I found myself wondering about characters. Liking some, hating others – then changing my mind as I was led deeper into the story.
Always against a background of ancient Britain, warriors, druids and invaders (true to history).
H.Barnard is a true story teller. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next one! Thanks also to the publisher for the advanced copy of this one.
July 15, 2022
A Painted Winter is the first novel in the Pictish Conspiracy series. Set in fourth century Scotland, the story follows two Pictish princes who seek revenge on the Romans who attacked their kingdom, killed their father and kidnapped their mother. Meanwhile, a mysterious stranger, Sorsha, awakens in a stone circle in the dead of winter, naked and alone. Stumbling across the princes, their stories collide and lead them to war.
I struggled a little to get into the book when I first started; there are quite a few character names to keep up with (many of which I wasn't too certain on the pronunciation of) and often I would confuse a couple. However, this became an easier task as the chapters moved on and I soon found myself engrossed in the mystery. It was very fast paced, easy to read, with short chapters.
It is very clear how much research must have gone into this book as the author combines historical fiction with Celtic mythology and certainly makes for an intriguing first instalment of the series.
I enjoyed the writing style and found the passages flowed well with each other. The dialogue does seem quite modern considering it is set mostly in 367AD and while I'm not too certain of the authenticity of this, I do think this is a reason behind why I was able to really immerse myself into the world created by the author. I am thoroughly looking forward to the second in the series.
I struggled a little to get into the book when I first started; there are quite a few character names to keep up with (many of which I wasn't too certain on the pronunciation of) and often I would confuse a couple. However, this became an easier task as the chapters moved on and I soon found myself engrossed in the mystery. It was very fast paced, easy to read, with short chapters.
It is very clear how much research must have gone into this book as the author combines historical fiction with Celtic mythology and certainly makes for an intriguing first instalment of the series.
I enjoyed the writing style and found the passages flowed well with each other. The dialogue does seem quite modern considering it is set mostly in 367AD and while I'm not too certain of the authenticity of this, I do think this is a reason behind why I was able to really immerse myself into the world created by the author. I am thoroughly looking forward to the second in the series.
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