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A review by historic_chronicles
A Painted Winter (Pictish Conspiracy #1) by H. Barnard
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
informative
lighthearted
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Set in the 4th Century, two Pictish brothers (Brei and Taran) along with their people plot to gain revenge on the Romans following devastation after an invasion on their land six years previously. After the sudden appearance of a young woman with mysterious and unbelievable powers (Sorsha) is discovered near their territory, her presence aids the brothers on their path of war and revenge.
The Pictish people of history are so enigmatic with much of the information we gather to learn of them having been procured by their rivals. To have this book, despite it being a fictionalised account, give the perspectives of these individuals it leaves you with the sense of breath of fresh air on this unique insight into fascinating history.
The author seamlessly blends fiction and history together, adding snippets of mythology and fantasy to the novel in a style that makes the story seem very real and convincing.
The exploration of culture and lifestyle within race whether it be Pictish, Roman or Saxon was handled sympathetically and with an unbiased air which I felt made the scenes more vibrant and immersive.
The characters are incredibly well developed with living and engaging relationships interlinking them. I found the use of switching between Brei and Sorsha's point of view to be a useful way to keep up the pace and to provide a balance to the action.
I especially loved Sorsha as a character. She grew as one should over a novel and matured over the story, showing depth and feeling which made me care deeply about her situation.
Overall I thought this was a fantastic beginning to the Pictish Conspiracy series and I can't wait to read more of H Barnard's work!
The Pictish people of history are so enigmatic with much of the information we gather to learn of them having been procured by their rivals. To have this book, despite it being a fictionalised account, give the perspectives of these individuals it leaves you with the sense of breath of fresh air on this unique insight into fascinating history.
The author seamlessly blends fiction and history together, adding snippets of mythology and fantasy to the novel in a style that makes the story seem very real and convincing.
The exploration of culture and lifestyle within race whether it be Pictish, Roman or Saxon was handled sympathetically and with an unbiased air which I felt made the scenes more vibrant and immersive.
The characters are incredibly well developed with living and engaging relationships interlinking them. I found the use of switching between Brei and Sorsha's point of view to be a useful way to keep up the pace and to provide a balance to the action.
I especially loved Sorsha as a character. She grew as one should over a novel and matured over the story, showing depth and feeling which made me care deeply about her situation.
Overall I thought this was a fantastic beginning to the Pictish Conspiracy series and I can't wait to read more of H Barnard's work!