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The Celtic Rebels #3
Queen of Ash and Iron
Fated to lead a rebellion against Rome.
Destined to become a legend.
Britain, A.D. 47
All at once, everything changes.
The rebellion of the Northern Iceni under King Caturix results in dire consequences for Boudica. Without Aulus Plautius’s protection, Boudica must face the new, more severe Roman Governor Scapula. Struggling to make their way in a war-torn landscape, Boudica and Prasutagus persevere, but fate has a way of undoing our best intentions. Catastrophic events take place undermining everything Boudica worked so hard to achieve.
As the eagle betrays, the queen of ash and iron rises to protect all that she loves.
Destined to become a legend.
Britain, A.D. 47
All at once, everything changes.
The rebellion of the Northern Iceni under King Caturix results in dire consequences for Boudica. Without Aulus Plautius’s protection, Boudica must face the new, more severe Roman Governor Scapula. Struggling to make their way in a war-torn landscape, Boudica and Prasutagus persevere, but fate has a way of undoing our best intentions. Catastrophic events take place undermining everything Boudica worked so hard to achieve.
As the eagle betrays, the queen of ash and iron rises to protect all that she loves.
770 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2023
338 people are currently reading
661 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Karsak
90 books1,714 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
May 16, 2023
Queen of Ash and Iron is the third book in The Celtic Rebels Series. I fell in love with this series from the very beginning with the first book Queen of Oak. But I must say I do believe that Queen of Ash and Iron is my favorite by far.
I love all the characters but Boudica is my favorite of all. Boudica is a strong human and a great leader. She will go to battle and stand up for all her people. I love her attitude and the way she looks at life. She has one of the biggest hearts around. She is always putting her people before herself.
Boudica has been through a lot over the course of The Celtic Rebels series losing her dad and now her brother. The Romans are making their way through their land destroying and taking whatever they want. Killing anyone who gets in their way.
Boudica made a deal with the Romans to keep her people safe but it appears that the Romans are not holding up to their word. Boudica sets out to make them stand by their word. Along the way, she sees all the destruction they have caused upon the land and her people.
Queen of Ash and Iron is a very captivating story that will hang on with me for a very long time. After I started reading Queen of Ash and Iron I was drawn in and there was no way I could lay it down as it would not let me go. I couldn’t believe what I was reading. The horror of it all. I mean it was horrific, to say the least.
My heart ached for all those people. I just can’t seem to make myself believe all the things the Romans did to Boudica’s people. I was in tears on more than one occasion. It reminds me so much of the things that are going on in our own world today.
I highly recommend Queen of Ash and Iron who likes reading stories about history. Grab your copy of Queen of Ash and Iron today!
I love all the characters but Boudica is my favorite of all. Boudica is a strong human and a great leader. She will go to battle and stand up for all her people. I love her attitude and the way she looks at life. She has one of the biggest hearts around. She is always putting her people before herself.
Boudica has been through a lot over the course of The Celtic Rebels series losing her dad and now her brother. The Romans are making their way through their land destroying and taking whatever they want. Killing anyone who gets in their way.
Boudica made a deal with the Romans to keep her people safe but it appears that the Romans are not holding up to their word. Boudica sets out to make them stand by their word. Along the way, she sees all the destruction they have caused upon the land and her people.
Queen of Ash and Iron is a very captivating story that will hang on with me for a very long time. After I started reading Queen of Ash and Iron I was drawn in and there was no way I could lay it down as it would not let me go. I couldn’t believe what I was reading. The horror of it all. I mean it was horrific, to say the least.
My heart ached for all those people. I just can’t seem to make myself believe all the things the Romans did to Boudica’s people. I was in tears on more than one occasion. It reminds me so much of the things that are going on in our own world today.
I highly recommend Queen of Ash and Iron who likes reading stories about history. Grab your copy of Queen of Ash and Iron today!
May 24, 2025
"A life of love, happiness, and death to Rome"
Unfortunately, this third book in the Boudica series was too slow for me. If we aren't hearing "death to Rome!" until 90% through the 3rd book, something is off with the pacing. I do however appreciate the nuanced look at Boudica's reign. Karsak represents her not just as a rebel, as she is often portrayed through the lens of history, but as a woman with desires and needs.
If you're interested in historical romantasy, I would recommend The Blackthorn Queen by the same author which I enjoyed a lot more. It has more magical and folklore elements.
Unfortunately, this third book in the Boudica series was too slow for me. If we aren't hearing "death to Rome!" until 90% through the 3rd book, something is off with the pacing. I do however appreciate the nuanced look at Boudica's reign. Karsak represents her not just as a rebel, as she is often portrayed through the lens of history, but as a woman with desires and needs.
If you're interested in historical romantasy, I would recommend The Blackthorn Queen by the same author which I enjoyed a lot more. It has more magical and folklore elements.
May 14, 2023
I received an ARC but, if you check my reviews, that never influences me!
This book was a really hard read because I knew what was coming historically speaking. I didn't want to get there and kept trying to put it down but I couldn't pull myself away.
This was a properly good ending to the saga and a satisfying telling of Boudica's life. I highly recommend it.
This book was a really hard read because I knew what was coming historically speaking. I didn't want to get there and kept trying to put it down but I couldn't pull myself away.
This was a properly good ending to the saga and a satisfying telling of Boudica's life. I highly recommend it.
July 28, 2024
What a beautifully tragic tale. A wonderful retelling of Boudica. I am honestly sad it's over.
July 12, 2024
First read, ending July 13, 2023:
I’m sick right now. I had a whole novel written, began immediately after finishing the book, in my grief and broken hearted sobbing. And GR crashed. I have the wrath of Boudicca (autocorrect likes this spelling of her name) aimed towards GR right now!
To try and recount: this series was phenomenal from the very beginning. I didn’t review the first two because I usually don’t, mostly because I’m not sure how to adequately review books for others to find helpful. This one however if fueled wholly by emotion.
These characters feel so real, perhaps because some of them were. Melanie is a truly gifted writer, I am in awe. We get to watch some of these characters grow up, find their own way, find love, start their own lives. And then deal with the Romans who come to steal the very land our characters live on. We watch them struggle, walk thin lines, deal with the stuff they deal with for the greater of their people. We watch them finally say “no more.” We go with them on their mission for vengeance. We cheer them on! We celebrate their early success. And then we cry and mourn and deal with our broken hearts when they fall.
Of all the beautiful characters and relationships in this series, Pix and Boudicca are without a doubt my favorites. Oh the love I have for these two women. One who certainly did exist, the other who likely didn’t. I hope Boudicca had a Pix in her life. I hope she passed onto her otherworld with a devoted and loyal friend the way she does in Melanie’s version. The tears I have shed for these women, for their people. I hope they continued to raise hell in their otherworld.
I’m rambling, thinking of new things, trying to recount my initial review that GR decided didn’t matter. I wish that I’d heard of Boudicca before now, at 35 years old. I wish for more young girls to know who she is. To face every decision they make with Boudicca’s bravery and fierceness. And for each of them to find their own Pix.
I am so broke right now due to medical bills, a recent vacation, another couple trips coming up, but I WILL purchase these books for my shelves. I will dive into everything Melanie has written. I implore you all to do the same.
__________________________________________________________
First Reread ending 7/12/24:
(Truly didn't realize how close to the exact dates I was, lol)
Badass women. Ruling women. History. Mysticism. Fae things. War. Battles. Revenge. Pix. (God I love that woman.)
One thing I wish had been expanded on a bit is the attachment across many lives. Pix just told Boudicca she’ll be there with her until the very end, and the next life and the next life. Boudicca is also bound still to Geharis (spelling?), but also both she and Prasutagus believe themselves to be soul-loves or something, bound to each other through many lives. BUT ALSO, she recognized her Roman, Aulus Plautius (I FOUND THE CORRECT NAME/SPELLING!) upon their first meeting, and at some point later towards the end of his residency in Brittania says that not only is their love connected through every life but also the pain, and the fact that he and Prasutagus were bound to some sort of friction betwixt themselves over her. I know this isn’t the point of the story and I know that this is heavily fictionalized because it has to be. It doesn’t really take away from the story, unless this sort of thing fascinates you the way it does me, and wishes there had been… idk, something more. But the focus is 100% on Boudicca and Brittania in the years 40-55 ish anno domini/common era, so I do realize we can’t just get a brief overview of those previous lives because it technically has no bearings. It’s just I’ve never really loved Prasutagus. I liked Gerahis, I realllllllyyyyy liked Aulus Plautius. It seems I almost never go with the “popular” or “readers choice” when it comes to love interests. Anyway. Will resume my story now.
I had a whole ass comeapart again over the end of this book. But I was expecting it so I took my lunch strategically to allow me to cry in peace. I remember now, when I read it on KU I also downloaded some like multiple-ending thing for some of the secondary characters, so I was expecting to get that in the Audible version. Until I remembered, it was like a “join my mailing list and get so-an-so’s endings!” It’s a heartbreaking ending, obviously, but she couldn’t very well have changed the little history we did know. Though an AU Boudicca would be cool lol. I really want the hardcovers because they are beautiful, but man I do not have $90 for three books right now. I wish this series had more readers and more reviews because it is truly some very solid writing.
I’m sick right now. I had a whole novel written, began immediately after finishing the book, in my grief and broken hearted sobbing. And GR crashed. I have the wrath of Boudicca (autocorrect likes this spelling of her name) aimed towards GR right now!
To try and recount: this series was phenomenal from the very beginning. I didn’t review the first two because I usually don’t, mostly because I’m not sure how to adequately review books for others to find helpful. This one however if fueled wholly by emotion.
These characters feel so real, perhaps because some of them were. Melanie is a truly gifted writer, I am in awe. We get to watch some of these characters grow up, find their own way, find love, start their own lives. And then deal with the Romans who come to steal the very land our characters live on. We watch them struggle, walk thin lines, deal with the stuff they deal with for the greater of their people. We watch them finally say “no more.” We go with them on their mission for vengeance. We cheer them on! We celebrate their early success. And then we cry and mourn and deal with our broken hearts when they fall.
Of all the beautiful characters and relationships in this series, Pix and Boudicca are without a doubt my favorites. Oh the love I have for these two women. One who certainly did exist, the other who likely didn’t. I hope Boudicca had a Pix in her life. I hope she passed onto her otherworld with a devoted and loyal friend the way she does in Melanie’s version. The tears I have shed for these women, for their people. I hope they continued to raise hell in their otherworld.
I’m rambling, thinking of new things, trying to recount my initial review that GR decided didn’t matter. I wish that I’d heard of Boudicca before now, at 35 years old. I wish for more young girls to know who she is. To face every decision they make with Boudicca’s bravery and fierceness. And for each of them to find their own Pix.
I am so broke right now due to medical bills, a recent vacation, another couple trips coming up, but I WILL purchase these books for my shelves. I will dive into everything Melanie has written. I implore you all to do the same.
__________________________________________________________
First Reread ending 7/12/24:
(Truly didn't realize how close to the exact dates I was, lol)
Badass women. Ruling women. History. Mysticism. Fae things. War. Battles. Revenge. Pix. (God I love that woman.)
One thing I wish had been expanded on a bit is the attachment across many lives. Pix just told Boudicca she’ll be there with her until the very end, and the next life and the next life. Boudicca is also bound still to Geharis (spelling?), but also both she and Prasutagus believe themselves to be soul-loves or something, bound to each other through many lives. BUT ALSO, she recognized her Roman, Aulus Plautius (I FOUND THE CORRECT NAME/SPELLING!) upon their first meeting, and at some point later towards the end of his residency in Brittania says that not only is their love connected through every life but also the pain, and the fact that he and Prasutagus were bound to some sort of friction betwixt themselves over her. I know this isn’t the point of the story and I know that this is heavily fictionalized because it has to be. It doesn’t really take away from the story, unless this sort of thing fascinates you the way it does me, and wishes there had been… idk, something more. But the focus is 100% on Boudicca and Brittania in the years 40-55 ish anno domini/common era, so I do realize we can’t just get a brief overview of those previous lives because it technically has no bearings. It’s just I’ve never really loved Prasutagus. I liked Gerahis, I realllllllyyyyy liked Aulus Plautius. It seems I almost never go with the “popular” or “readers choice” when it comes to love interests. Anyway. Will resume my story now.
I had a whole ass comeapart again over the end of this book. But I was expecting it so I took my lunch strategically to allow me to cry in peace. I remember now, when I read it on KU I also downloaded some like multiple-ending thing for some of the secondary characters, so I was expecting to get that in the Audible version. Until I remembered, it was like a “join my mailing list and get so-an-so’s endings!” It’s a heartbreaking ending, obviously, but she couldn’t very well have changed the little history we did know. Though an AU Boudicca would be cool lol. I really want the hardcovers because they are beautiful, but man I do not have $90 for three books right now. I wish this series had more readers and more reviews because it is truly some very solid writing.
May 22, 2023
I know I over use the words: epic, adventure, grand, emotional, heroic, amazing, and must read every time I talk about a Karsak story but it never fails to amazing me how grand and magnificent, royal and heroic her stories turn out to be. How involved I become in not only the adventure, but in the daily lives and thoughts of each of the characters in the outcomes of the villages and towns, in the politics of the countries, in the decisions made during the wars or just village life. I often find myself having become a citizen of these stories just as much as the characters, having become a protector just as much as Boudica; so when the story, when the series ends, it feels like I have lost a tiny piece of myself each time. Would I give up these stories for that piece of me back? Nope. I crave these experiences, as they are so rare.
Anyway, back to the review! LOL. Queen of Ash and Iron is, well, epic. It is a hard-fought, hard-won ending that while not perfect and pretty was beautiful and just what the characters and the story line demanded. I love that the author doesn’t try to push the story to a place that doesn’t feel true just to make it pretty for the sake of a nice ending. She allows the characters to tell where they need to be and that just makes the story shine so much more.
Boudica finds herself in the fight of her life, with or without the help of Rome and doing everything she can to protect her people and their land. Boudica is strong and bold, she has more on her side than just brute force, she has heart and faith. I love the dynamics of history, fantasy, and religion that played the role in the story and not always where you expected them to.
I was warned to bring tissues, and I did need them. I was a mess. But I expected that because I have bonded with these characters.
Highly recommended this series for anyone looking for an adventure and an escape of a lifetime.
All the stars.
Anyway, back to the review! LOL. Queen of Ash and Iron is, well, epic. It is a hard-fought, hard-won ending that while not perfect and pretty was beautiful and just what the characters and the story line demanded. I love that the author doesn’t try to push the story to a place that doesn’t feel true just to make it pretty for the sake of a nice ending. She allows the characters to tell where they need to be and that just makes the story shine so much more.
Boudica finds herself in the fight of her life, with or without the help of Rome and doing everything she can to protect her people and their land. Boudica is strong and bold, she has more on her side than just brute force, she has heart and faith. I love the dynamics of history, fantasy, and religion that played the role in the story and not always where you expected them to.
I was warned to bring tissues, and I did need them. I was a mess. But I expected that because I have bonded with these characters.
Highly recommended this series for anyone looking for an adventure and an escape of a lifetime.
All the stars.
June 27, 2024
Great finale to this interesting tale of freedom fighters !!!
Great finale to this interesting tale of freedom fighters !!! I recommend this historical fictional series of books !!! Thinking of reading her other book!!
Great finale to this interesting tale of freedom fighters !!! I recommend this historical fictional series of books !!! Thinking of reading her other book!!
August 9, 2025
An engrossing read!
Pure delight. The work of writing a story within the framework of history is very well done! Boudica Boudica Boudica
Pure delight. The work of writing a story within the framework of history is very well done! Boudica Boudica Boudica
May 25, 2023
Queen Boudica has decided to make peace with the Romans rather than fighting them. She quickly realizes that peace was not what she had once hoped for. The Romans are destroying her lands, killing her people, and destroying the religion. Eventually, Queen Boudica reaches a breaking point. She decides to no longer have pace with the Romans. Instead, she makes war.
Queen Boudica is a fascinating character. She is a queen who is very compassionate. She makes some bad choices. However, they are done to save her people. I liked seeing her transformation from an ally queen of Rome to one of Rome’s fiercest enemies. She was a very strong and charismatic leader who gave many people hope. It is no wonder why she had so many warriors from different tribes to fight for her against the Romans. Thus, Boudica was a very compelling queen.
Overall, this novel is about choices, family, and war. All of the characters were very complex and likable. I was very interested in learning about their fate. Because Queen Boudica went through so many hardships, this was a very tough read, especially at the end. Still, this was an epic conclusion to a breathtaking series! The Celtic Rebels is one of the best series on the legendary queens. You will come away from the novel feeling like you know Queen Boudica and the world she lived in. Mrs. Karsak has made Celtic Britain come alive! I recommend this book for fans of Warrior Queen, Boudica’s Daughter, and Sword of Gladiatrix! The Celtic Rebels series is a real treat and a series that you must not miss! I can’t wait to read more of Mrs. Karsak’s other works in which she has also written about other infamous queens! Mrs. Karsak has now become one of my favorite authors!
(Note: I was given an ARC copy of this book by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Queen Boudica is a fascinating character. She is a queen who is very compassionate. She makes some bad choices. However, they are done to save her people. I liked seeing her transformation from an ally queen of Rome to one of Rome’s fiercest enemies. She was a very strong and charismatic leader who gave many people hope. It is no wonder why she had so many warriors from different tribes to fight for her against the Romans. Thus, Boudica was a very compelling queen.
Overall, this novel is about choices, family, and war. All of the characters were very complex and likable. I was very interested in learning about their fate. Because Queen Boudica went through so many hardships, this was a very tough read, especially at the end. Still, this was an epic conclusion to a breathtaking series! The Celtic Rebels is one of the best series on the legendary queens. You will come away from the novel feeling like you know Queen Boudica and the world she lived in. Mrs. Karsak has made Celtic Britain come alive! I recommend this book for fans of Warrior Queen, Boudica’s Daughter, and Sword of Gladiatrix! The Celtic Rebels series is a real treat and a series that you must not miss! I can’t wait to read more of Mrs. Karsak’s other works in which she has also written about other infamous queens! Mrs. Karsak has now become one of my favorite authors!
(Note: I was given an ARC copy of this book by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)
November 15, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, but I felt this one could have been 400 pages shorter. It was 400 pages of Boudicca being told to rise, which she doesn’t, and then the action feels very squeezed in.
The ending was never going to be happy but I hope the author writes Sorcha’s story.
In all I would recommend the series, and I enjoyed the portrayal of Boudicca, just felt this one was too stretched out.
The ending was never going to be happy but I hope the author writes Sorcha’s story.
In all I would recommend the series, and I enjoyed the portrayal of Boudicca, just felt this one was too stretched out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2023
Epic. Timeless. Masterpiece. My heart is so full with everything Melanie Karsak writes. These characters are a part of me now. I just finished this book and I feel a loss. I want to reread Boudica's story and cry some more.
The research is top notch for ALL of her work. I can't seem to get enough. Well done and I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves a good historical series.
*edited the following day* I came in to work the following morning on a mission. Why are Melanie Karsak's books not in my library? After looking to purchase a few titles for our collection... I can't find any and I am baffled. I did find the small paperbacks, which is not an option. I rarely read an author that I want to campaign to add to libraries.... however, THIS AUTHOR is the real deal. I have a mission now.
If you have a chance to pick up and start ANY of her series, I HIGHLY recommend her books!
The research is top notch for ALL of her work. I can't seem to get enough. Well done and I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves a good historical series.
*edited the following day* I came in to work the following morning on a mission. Why are Melanie Karsak's books not in my library? After looking to purchase a few titles for our collection... I can't find any and I am baffled. I did find the small paperbacks, which is not an option. I rarely read an author that I want to campaign to add to libraries.... however, THIS AUTHOR is the real deal. I have a mission now.
If you have a chance to pick up and start ANY of her series, I HIGHLY recommend her books!
May 31, 2023
Outstanding Achievement!
As a major fan of Melanie Karsak's historical fantasy fiction works, and knowing Boudica's story already, I was excited to see her perspective of Boudica. She absolutely nailed it! The characters came alive off each page. Each of their personalities and the stories of the lives they lived during this difficult time made you feel as you were right there with them. I have come to love these characters and am excited to see Cartimandua's story is coming, as I am not as familiar with that and I know Melanie will once again give us stories with characters that will either make you laugh out loud, or cry out loud with tears. I really hope she can write more about Sorcha and Olwen, Boudica's daughters, as I've always wondered what happened to them. Thank you, Melanie, for all of your hard work on these books. Please keep the stories coming!
As a major fan of Melanie Karsak's historical fantasy fiction works, and knowing Boudica's story already, I was excited to see her perspective of Boudica. She absolutely nailed it! The characters came alive off each page. Each of their personalities and the stories of the lives they lived during this difficult time made you feel as you were right there with them. I have come to love these characters and am excited to see Cartimandua's story is coming, as I am not as familiar with that and I know Melanie will once again give us stories with characters that will either make you laugh out loud, or cry out loud with tears. I really hope she can write more about Sorcha and Olwen, Boudica's daughters, as I've always wondered what happened to them. Thank you, Melanie, for all of your hard work on these books. Please keep the stories coming!
May 22, 2023
I enjoyed this story, although it was a bit sad. Over the course of the Celtic Rebels series, you really grow to get to like and admire Boudica. She is a relentlessly brave and selfless leader, doing her best to co-exist with the Romans and protect her people. Those who know the historical context will know that they are destined for failure, but you're still hoping against hope that Boudica will somehow triumph over overwhelming odds. The writing is lush and atmospheric-you really feel like you are right in the thick of the action. The numerous obstacles and losses are poignant and you will likely get a bit emotional. There are some sweet, happy moments peppered throughout. It was an amazing conclusion to the story, and Boudica is a heroine you will not soon forget.
August 17, 2023
"Today, we have come to fight, not just for our gods, but for our families, our people, ourselves, and the very land under our feet.We are all children of the greenwood. The eagle has come to our lands, knowing nothing of our sacred stones, trees, pools, or the names of our gods. They know nothing of the little people of the hollow hills. They know nothing of the fey things in our forests. They know nothing of this land. And yet, they have come to take from us all that we hold precious. All that is sacred. All that is beyond their comprehension. But I say, no more. Today, we will strike the chains off our gods. We will reclaim what is ours."
Whenever I see London's statue of Boudica and her chariot, I will always remember Boudica's excruciating but inevitable march to that moment.
Whenever I see London's statue of Boudica and her chariot, I will always remember Boudica's excruciating but inevitable march to that moment.
May 7, 2023
I was told to have tissues at the ready, but my own Celtic blood was sparked and a felt more anger at Rome than anything. Although, there were instances where my hand grabbed my mouth. This whole series has been spectacular for me, but Queen of Ash and Iron, gets down to the nitty gritty of Boudica. I can't say much without spoilers, but I will say that we get the in depth story and characters that I've come to know in Melanie Karsak's books. Pix had me laughing throughout, the wise things the "Wise Ones" said were profound, and the strength and courage of Boudica came through the pages load and clear!
May 23, 2023
This was an amazing ending to the trilogy. I fell in love with the series and Boudica at the beginning with Queen of Oak. Throughout the series, you see Boudica grow and looked out for her people. She tried to make peace with the Romans but it was heart breaking seeing that her efforts were destined to fail due the historical context that the series is based off of.
This is an emotional read due to the loss that Boudica experiences during this book. I would 100% recommend this series because it’s fantastic and pulls on the heartstrings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is an emotional read due to the loss that Boudica experiences during this book. I would 100% recommend this series because it’s fantastic and pulls on the heartstrings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 24, 2023
A well-written, yet tragic, historical drama about Queen Boudica of the Celts. A tale of courage and death. Of endings with whispers of new beginnings. Of woe and wonder. Of the horrors of the Roman Empire. A reminder that power corrupts. Melanie Karsak has kept the story within the constraints of historical records; however, I'm not interested in tragedies; hence the rating.
Action-packed. Entertaining. Haunting. Romantic. Scary. Steamy. Tear-jerker. 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. Entertaining. Haunting. Romantic. Scary. Steamy. Tear-jerker. Tragic. Twisted. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
October 18, 2023
I have very much been looking forward to and dreading this final conclusion to the Celtic Rebels series.
Firstly, I became ensared into this world with Boudica and Prasutagus from the first two books, and I was not ready to say goodbye.
Secondly, a war with Rome seemed inevitable, and I just knew that there would be losses that would devastate me!
Melanie's writing is full of rich, vivid details, intrigue, and characters that you love.... So much so that when there is a loss, you truly feel that loss. The ending of this book completely shredded me, but I still loved every minute of it!
As always, Lesley Parkin does an outstanding job with narration!
I highly recommend this author!!
Firstly, I became ensared into this world with Boudica and Prasutagus from the first two books, and I was not ready to say goodbye.
Secondly, a war with Rome seemed inevitable, and I just knew that there would be losses that would devastate me!
Melanie's writing is full of rich, vivid details, intrigue, and characters that you love.... So much so that when there is a loss, you truly feel that loss. The ending of this book completely shredded me, but I still loved every minute of it!
As always, Lesley Parkin does an outstanding job with narration!
I highly recommend this author!!
March 18, 2024
It took me months to get into this series because nothing really happened for the first 30% of book one, but after the inciting incident occurred, I found myself enjoying the characters. There were some romance scenes I didn’t need to read but overall, I found the storyline engaging and the characters intriguing. There was also quite a bit of mystical and magical in this book, so it’s not quite historical fiction…more like magical realism within a historical context.
My only main bit of criticism was that in (seemingly) every chapter, the author used the word ‘waspishly’. I found myself very annoyed by it…to the point of feeling waspish myself.
My only main bit of criticism was that in (seemingly) every chapter, the author used the word ‘waspishly’. I found myself very annoyed by it…to the point of feeling waspish myself.
May 27, 2023
This book took my heart and ripped it out. It has the ending that we were all expecting but it still rips you apart because you want a different outcome. This is was an epic experience and I'm not sure that I'll recover. I really enjoyed reading the entire series and highly recommend it.
The world of Boudica is wonderfully written and so rich in details. The characters are really well written and crafted. Through the entire series, we see different sides of the characters and they become family.
The world of Boudica is wonderfully written and so rich in details. The characters are really well written and crafted. Through the entire series, we see different sides of the characters and they become family.
June 3, 2023
Another Great Read
I cannot understand how it is that Melanie Karsak’s Celtic Rebel Series speaks me so much! Perhaps it is my Celtic genes?! Anyway, this book was another riveting read in this series. I was so sad when it ended because I wanted to continue reading! Deep literature? Perhaps not, but this is a very entertaining read that packs a lot of very well done research and history within its pages.
I hope there will be another book in this series…maybe a continuing family saga?!
I can hope!
I cannot understand how it is that Melanie Karsak’s Celtic Rebel Series speaks me so much! Perhaps it is my Celtic genes?! Anyway, this book was another riveting read in this series. I was so sad when it ended because I wanted to continue reading! Deep literature? Perhaps not, but this is a very entertaining read that packs a lot of very well done research and history within its pages.
I hope there will be another book in this series…maybe a continuing family saga?!
I can hope!
August 10, 2023
I have never devoured a trilogy faster. The last several days I read every single chance I could. Melanie Karsak always delivers. The Highland Raven series will always be my #1 but The Celtic Rebels are so closely behind. I’m so excited to start The Black Thorn Queen, but I need to know the rest of Sorcha’s story through this authors eyes. 5 very solid stars. Also very happy to learn there are two books in the Chancellor Fairy Tales series!
October 9, 2023
Exceptional
After reading all three books in this series, I can say they are excellent. The author takes us into the lives of her characters and paints them beautifully. The bravery of Boudica and her countrymen is laid out in great detail. Pronouncing the names of everyone and knowing the location of each place isn't important. The story is what matters. It brought a tear to my eye more than once.
Well done, Ms. Karsak.
After reading all three books in this series, I can say they are excellent. The author takes us into the lives of her characters and paints them beautifully. The bravery of Boudica and her countrymen is laid out in great detail. Pronouncing the names of everyone and knowing the location of each place isn't important. The story is what matters. It brought a tear to my eye more than once.
Well done, Ms. Karsak.
October 31, 2023
So sorry to see this series end. I loved listening to the life of Boudicca and her family. The history of Roman Britain is fascinating with subsequent emperors wanting to succeed where Caesar didn't and the various native tribes trying to maintain their identity and safety. The Romans didn't just want the land and the natural resources, they enslaved the people and destroyed their religions ( sound familiar). The person who reads these books is fantastic. Highly recommend this author.
January 29, 2024
Conclusions and New Beginnings
The trilogy of Boudica comes to an end, guaranteeing a few tears to be shed by the reader. Rome has proven itself to be devious, treacherous and savage. There is much sorrow, darkness, bloodshed, and despair but through it all Boudica and Pix stay strong. Melanie has captured, in her words, the spirit and strength of the ancient peoples, with an epilogue that shines. So glad I chose to read this series!
The trilogy of Boudica comes to an end, guaranteeing a few tears to be shed by the reader. Rome has proven itself to be devious, treacherous and savage. There is much sorrow, darkness, bloodshed, and despair but through it all Boudica and Pix stay strong. Melanie has captured, in her words, the spirit and strength of the ancient peoples, with an epilogue that shines. So glad I chose to read this series!
January 1, 2025
Gone but not forgotten
This book was so hard for me to finish. Not because of the writing or anything to do with the author. I just knew the fate of Boudica and it filled me with so much sadness. Obviously I know she’s dead by now in real life. But her and her people deserved so much better than what Rome did to them.
Anyway, I do hope that we get a story of what happens with her daughters. Even though history lost them.
This book was so hard for me to finish. Not because of the writing or anything to do with the author. I just knew the fate of Boudica and it filled me with so much sadness. Obviously I know she’s dead by now in real life. But her and her people deserved so much better than what Rome did to them.
Anyway, I do hope that we get a story of what happens with her daughters. Even though history lost them.
May 26, 2023
The best way to end a story is to have divided opinions. Queen Boudica fights for her people, her lands and her way of life but doesn't always win in a way that feels like winning. Her choices and her actions may not seem to be the wisest course, but her heart is in the finest place it could possibly be and she deals with the struggles and the triumphs in the only manner she can.
June 16, 2023
Great Read
All of the soap opera drama in the first two books finally came to a climax in book 3, Queen of Ash and Iron. The earlier drama was fun but I kept waiting for the action that came in this book. I was terribly sad to see so many heroes pass in this book but I can’t wait to read ahead about the next generation.
All of the soap opera drama in the first two books finally came to a climax in book 3, Queen of Ash and Iron. The earlier drama was fun but I kept waiting for the action that came in this book. I was terribly sad to see so many heroes pass in this book but I can’t wait to read ahead about the next generation.
June 18, 2023
Great Job!!!!
Very good series! Loved all three books. Hate it that the Queen and Pix had to die but glad they were together. Enjoyed learning the history involved in the story. Nice job!!! Didn't even find very many typos!!! Kudos!!!! In the history book that I read the daughters had a different ending after the war. Like yours better!!!!!!!!❤🐎🐎🐎🐎🌞
Very good series! Loved all three books. Hate it that the Queen and Pix had to die but glad they were together. Enjoyed learning the history involved in the story. Nice job!!! Didn't even find very many typos!!! Kudos!!!! In the history book that I read the daughters had a different ending after the war. Like yours better!!!!!!!!❤🐎🐎🐎🐎🌞
September 4, 2023
Absolutely love the Celtic Rebels Series
Fast paced and action packed. Journey through the ether to experience Boudica, Queen of the Iceni, life. A tragic story of love, betrayal, courage, and family. Rome came with peace offerings however those offerings came at a price to high for the proud Celtic people to pay. A must read! One of the best series I've read this year.
Fast paced and action packed. Journey through the ether to experience Boudica, Queen of the Iceni, life. A tragic story of love, betrayal, courage, and family. Rome came with peace offerings however those offerings came at a price to high for the proud Celtic people to pay. A must read! One of the best series I've read this year.
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