Book: The Eagle and the Raven by Pauline Gedge
Krishna
This is the story of Brittany (or Albion) in the first century AD, when Rome spread its inexorable control over a fiercely resistant Albion, Iceni, and other tribes that existed there. Brittany referred variously to a region in France today and also to a region comprising of six Celtic states, so I have no idea which one of these this book refers to. It does not matter, since the story stands on its own, without a specific reference.
The story traces the rise and fall of Caradoc, sun of Cunobelin, of Camalodunon. His infatuation with Aricia, his wedding to Eurgain, and his nature loving, quiet sister Gladys all form part of the backdrop, as does his boisterous brother.
The story also encompasses the story of Aricia herself, as she goes away to her own kingdom and marries Venetius. In parallel, two more important characters complete the picture: the rebellious spirited Boudicca and her husband. The story is long and moves between the lives of all of these people (plus two Roman Caesars, some Roman generals and
others)
The story does not grab and hold your attention at all times. It is overall very good but slack builds up in many places, dragging the story down. When it does pick up, though, the tension is reminiscent of Wilbur Smith’s best works. (For instance, when Caradoc’s fortress is surrounded by Romans, the assassination attempt on one of the characters and the brilliant battle near the end, and the treachery that fells one of the important characters).
On the whole, it is like reading many books placed end to end, since the main character moves from the centre to the fringes and never returns to the centre stage again, and his replacement does the same a while later. I have avoided naming names in the above review so as not to give anything away to those who may want to read it and not appreciate knowing about it prematurely!
Overall I would rate it only a 6/10
— Krishna