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ashsara's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Religious bigotry, Violence, Suicide, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Rape
mallorypen's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
Took another roll of the free Audible book dice, and stumbled upon an amazing narrator! Hamish Long took what he was given and gave the characters such warmth and life.
For the book itself: as someone who has perhaps a little more knowledge of British Roman monks, early Christian influence in the British isles, and Danish raiders than the average person (if I do say so myself) there was a lot to commend this book on in terms of research. The details the author pulled to make the setting and plot feel anchored in the time period were well used and effective.
Now, having a book from the library of Alexandria that taught ALL of the science that Theo taught? Hmm.
The romance between Fen and Cai was full of tee-hee fingers; tropes galore with enemies to lovers, hurt/comfort, die-for-you and lots of spice. Though, I have to say it was hella weird hearing “Caius” when I’m so used to “Gaius.” The language got a little purple from time to time, but their love was very sweet.
The biggest downside for me was that the plot had a tendency to meander. I found myself getting bored waiting for the next plot point to happen, and some of the reveals weren’t quite as satisfying of a payoff as they could have been. Denan and Addie were … meh.
Overall - between the sweetness of the romance and the masterful storytelling from Hamish Long, I was pleasantly surprised.
For the book itself: as someone who has perhaps a little more knowledge of British Roman monks, early Christian influence in the British isles, and Danish raiders than the average person (if I do say so myself) there was a lot to commend this book on in terms of research. The details the author pulled to make the setting and plot feel anchored in the time period were well used and effective.
Now, having a book from the library of Alexandria that taught ALL of the science that Theo taught? Hmm.
The romance between Fen and Cai was full of tee-hee fingers; tropes galore with enemies to lovers, hurt/comfort, die-for-you and lots of spice. Though, I have to say it was hella weird hearing “Caius” when I’m so used to “Gaius.” The language got a little purple from time to time, but their love was very sweet.
The biggest downside for me was that the plot had a tendency to meander. I found myself getting bored waiting for the next plot point to happen, and some of the reveals weren’t quite as satisfying of a payoff as they could have been. Denan and Addie were … meh.
Overall - between the sweetness of the romance and the masterful storytelling from Hamish Long, I was pleasantly surprised.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicide, Murder, and War
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