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The Chronicles of Iona #1
The Chronicles of Iona: Exile
Named to "Kirkus Reviews'" Best of 2012. Silver Prize Winner, 2012 "ForeWord Clarion" Book of the Year Awards, Historical Fiction. "Exile", the first novel in the historical fiction series "The Chronicles of Iona", is the story of the two men who laid the foundations of the Scottish nation, an Irish monk, Saint Columba, and a Scottish warlord, Aedan mac Gabran. They were a real-life sixth-century Merlin and King Arthur and their story has never been told. It is 563 A.D. The world has been plunged into chaos by the collapse of the Roman Empire and barbarian civilization holds on by a thread. Columba, a powerful abbot and prince of Ireland, is exiled for a violent act to the pagan colony of Dalriada on the west coast of Scotland. Awaiting him there is Aedan mac Gabran, the down-and-out second son of the colony’s previous king, slain by the bloodthirsty Picts. Together, this unlikely pair travels the breadth of a lawless, divided realm, each in search of his own kind of unity. Their path is fraught with blood feuds, lost love, sacrifice, miracles, dark gods, and monsters. Beset on all sides, their only hope is to become allies—and to forge a daring alliance with the pagan Picts. How Columba overcame exile and a crisis of faith to found the famous monastery of Iona (one of the greatest centers of learning in Dark Age Europe) and, from it, the Celtic Church in the British Isles; and how Aedan avenged his father’s death and became, against all odds, the progenitor of Scottish kings and the greatest warlord of his age, begins here. For both, what begins as a personal imperative becomes a series of events that lead to the foundation of Iona and the kingdom of Scotland—events that literally change the world.Historically authentic yet told with a bold fictional sweep, “The Chronicles of Exile” plunges the reader into the world of sixth-century Scotland and Ireland, the veritable Dark Ages—a world on the brink of either collapse or creation, poised between myth and history.
394 pages, Paperback
First published May 25, 2012
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146 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 10, 2018
Novel of St. Columba, his exile from Ireland for the murder of a king's counselor--however justified though it may have been--and his struggle to settle on the Isle of Iona. Aedan, a Scottish warlord, is tasked by his king and cousin, the duplicitous Conall, to be Columba's helper and advisor. Columba first settles on Himba, where he and his monks are not safe from Picts, so he decides to ask the Caledonian king, Bridei to grant Iona to him; Iona is now controlled by
Bridei and is used for pagan sacrifices. Much of the book is taken up with their journey to his fortress, "The Craig", [near to the place we would call Inverness]. Their Caledonian prisoners witness miracles of Columba: a stake carved by Columba which supplies a poor family with food until it is cut into pieces, destroying a poisoned well, escape from the Loch Ness Monster, culminating in the bringing back to life of a young Caledonian boy. Bridei grants the island to Columba because of the eyewitness accounts of the Caledonian brother and sister, Drust and Domelch, and their attesting to the compassionate character of Columba and even of Aedan, who had spared her, when he had the opportunity to kill her for her treachery.
A very inspirational story, set against the background of 6th century Scotland, which was a group of small kingdoms. Much is taken from "The Life of Columba", the hagiographical account. I appreciated the copious notes and explanations. I just wish the glossary and pronunciation guide to Gaelic names had been in the front of the book, clarifying who each character was in the story. The family tree is somewhat helpful with relationships, however. I appreciated what maps there were, drawn by the author no less, but hoped for one tracing out Columba's journey from Ireland with his monks, their stay at King Conall's and his final journey to Bridei's fortress.
Highly recommended.
Bridei and is used for pagan sacrifices. Much of the book is taken up with their journey to his fortress, "The Craig", [near to the place we would call Inverness]. Their Caledonian prisoners witness miracles of Columba: a stake carved by Columba which supplies a poor family with food until it is cut into pieces, destroying a poisoned well, escape from the Loch Ness Monster, culminating in the bringing back to life of a young Caledonian boy. Bridei grants the island to Columba because of the eyewitness accounts of the Caledonian brother and sister, Drust and Domelch, and their attesting to the compassionate character of Columba and even of Aedan, who had spared her, when he had the opportunity to kill her for her treachery.
A very inspirational story, set against the background of 6th century Scotland, which was a group of small kingdoms. Much is taken from "The Life of Columba", the hagiographical account. I appreciated the copious notes and explanations. I just wish the glossary and pronunciation guide to Gaelic names had been in the front of the book, clarifying who each character was in the story. The family tree is somewhat helpful with relationships, however. I appreciated what maps there were, drawn by the author no less, but hoped for one tracing out Columba's journey from Ireland with his monks, their stay at King Conall's and his final journey to Bridei's fortress.
Highly recommended.
October 4, 2021
4.5 stars.
This is so well-written and held my interest till the end. Definitely, a must-read even if you’re not a history lover.
First of all, I have no idea of this part of history and who these people are before reading this book. LOL. But spoiler alert, I enjoyed reading this book so much.
This book is set in 6th century A.D. and to be honest, at first, that was enough for me to lose interest. If not for this blog tour, I don’t think I will ever pick a book that is set in that period. The story follows an Irish monk, St. Columba, and a Scottish warlord by the of Aedan mac Gabran, who eventually became Columba’s advisor. I always find it hard to describe the qualities of characters that are based on real people. All I can say is if I enjoyed how they were depicted in the story, and in this case, they were. I really enjoyed reading the historical accounts in the eyes of the characters.
It is also fascinating for me to see these characters not only in the events that were written in history but also in very mundane things. I love seeing historical figures doing mundane stuff. They become human beings in my eyes and not just figures in the history books. And I think the author really did a great job at introducing the Columba and Aedan to the readers. As I said, I have no idea about this part of history and these people before reading this book, and still, I find the characters and the events very interesting to read and definitely worth my time. I mean all parts of history are worth our time but like I always say in my reviews of historical fiction, I’m not a fan of history.
The thing about writing historical fiction that is based closely on real events is it’s important for the author to choose the events that she will include in the book. Sure, every part of the history is important but in Historical Fiction, the author must decide which ones really matter to the story she’s telling and themes she’s trying to tackle. And I think in Chronicles of Iona, the author did a great job at it.
I was so fascinated by how the events unfold. It’s like I was watching a movie and everything was clear and makes sense. I was seriously trying to remember every part of the history that was featured. This book made me feel like I will do wrong if I don’t remember what I read. That doesn’t sound sensible but whatever. LOL.
The writing is superb. Though I must say this isn’t a book that aims to entertain. The Chronicles of Iona is the kind of book that needs undivided attention from the reader. But it isn’t hard to read as well. The writing is designed to make the reader glued to the pages.
This book is surprisingly a page-turner. I was interested in what I'm reading till the end.
This is so well-written and held my interest till the end. Definitely, a must-read even if you’re not a history lover.
First of all, I have no idea of this part of history and who these people are before reading this book. LOL. But spoiler alert, I enjoyed reading this book so much.
This book is set in 6th century A.D. and to be honest, at first, that was enough for me to lose interest. If not for this blog tour, I don’t think I will ever pick a book that is set in that period. The story follows an Irish monk, St. Columba, and a Scottish warlord by the of Aedan mac Gabran, who eventually became Columba’s advisor. I always find it hard to describe the qualities of characters that are based on real people. All I can say is if I enjoyed how they were depicted in the story, and in this case, they were. I really enjoyed reading the historical accounts in the eyes of the characters.
It is also fascinating for me to see these characters not only in the events that were written in history but also in very mundane things. I love seeing historical figures doing mundane stuff. They become human beings in my eyes and not just figures in the history books. And I think the author really did a great job at introducing the Columba and Aedan to the readers. As I said, I have no idea about this part of history and these people before reading this book, and still, I find the characters and the events very interesting to read and definitely worth my time. I mean all parts of history are worth our time but like I always say in my reviews of historical fiction, I’m not a fan of history.
The thing about writing historical fiction that is based closely on real events is it’s important for the author to choose the events that she will include in the book. Sure, every part of the history is important but in Historical Fiction, the author must decide which ones really matter to the story she’s telling and themes she’s trying to tackle. And I think in Chronicles of Iona, the author did a great job at it.
I was so fascinated by how the events unfold. It’s like I was watching a movie and everything was clear and makes sense. I was seriously trying to remember every part of the history that was featured. This book made me feel like I will do wrong if I don’t remember what I read. That doesn’t sound sensible but whatever. LOL.
The writing is superb. Though I must say this isn’t a book that aims to entertain. The Chronicles of Iona is the kind of book that needs undivided attention from the reader. But it isn’t hard to read as well. The writing is designed to make the reader glued to the pages.
This book is surprisingly a page-turner. I was interested in what I'm reading till the end.
September 27, 2021
I absolutely adored The Chronicles of Iona: Exile by Paula de Fougerolles. It is just so well researched it is like a history lesson, but an entertaining one. If you have any interest in Scottish History I don’t think you can do better than this book.
Synopsis:
Named to "Kirkus Reviews'" Best of 2012. “Exile”, the first novel in the historical fiction series “The Chronicles of Iona”, is the story of the two men who laid the foundations of the Scottish nation, an Irish monk, Saint Columba, and a Scottish warlord, Aedan mac Gabran. They were a real-life sixth-century Merlin and King Arthur and their story has never been told. It is 563 A.D. The world has been plunged into chaos by the collapse of the Roman Empire and barbarian invasions: civilization holds on by a thread. Columba, a powerful abbot and prince of Ireland, is exiled for a violent act to the pagan colony of Dalriada on the west coast of Scotland. Awaiting him there is Aedan mac Gabran, the down-and-out second son of the colony’s previous king, slain by the bloodthirsty Picts. Together, this unlikely pair travels the breadth of a lawless, divided realm, each in search of his own kind of unity. Their path is fraught with blood feuds, lost love, sacrifice, miracles, dark gods, and monsters. Beset on all sides, their only hope is to become allies—and to forge a daring alliance with the pagan Picts. How Columba overcame exile and a crisis of faith to found the famous monastery of Iona (one of the greatest centers of learning in Dark Age Europe) and, from it, the Celtic Church in the British Isles; and how Aedan avenged his father’s death and became, against all odds, the progenitor of Scottish kings and the greatest warlord of his age, begins here. For both, what begins as a personal imperative becomes a series of events that lead to the foundation of Iona and the kingdom of Scotland—events that literally change the world. Historically authentic yet told with a bold fictional sweep, “The Chronicles of Iona: Exile” plunges the reader into the world of sixth-century Scotland and Ireland, the veritable Dark Ages—a world on the brink of either collapse or creation, poised between myth and history.
My review:
This book is essentially the story of two men, St Columba and his friend and advisor, Aedan Mac Givran. The books follows their story as they try to survive in the harsh and unforgiving world of 6th century Scotland. Pagan sacrifices, great battles, cruelty and compassion the book has it all. What’s really great about this is that this is such an important and formative period of history and yet it gets hardly any coverage in fiction. We always seem to jump from the Roman Empire to the Tudors … but hardly ever do we look at the ‘dark ages’ and yet what happened there impacted so much and essentially formed the world we know today.
Fantastic read. 5 stars.
Thank you to the author and the tour organizer for providing me with a copy of the book
Synopsis:
Named to "Kirkus Reviews'" Best of 2012. “Exile”, the first novel in the historical fiction series “The Chronicles of Iona”, is the story of the two men who laid the foundations of the Scottish nation, an Irish monk, Saint Columba, and a Scottish warlord, Aedan mac Gabran. They were a real-life sixth-century Merlin and King Arthur and their story has never been told. It is 563 A.D. The world has been plunged into chaos by the collapse of the Roman Empire and barbarian invasions: civilization holds on by a thread. Columba, a powerful abbot and prince of Ireland, is exiled for a violent act to the pagan colony of Dalriada on the west coast of Scotland. Awaiting him there is Aedan mac Gabran, the down-and-out second son of the colony’s previous king, slain by the bloodthirsty Picts. Together, this unlikely pair travels the breadth of a lawless, divided realm, each in search of his own kind of unity. Their path is fraught with blood feuds, lost love, sacrifice, miracles, dark gods, and monsters. Beset on all sides, their only hope is to become allies—and to forge a daring alliance with the pagan Picts. How Columba overcame exile and a crisis of faith to found the famous monastery of Iona (one of the greatest centers of learning in Dark Age Europe) and, from it, the Celtic Church in the British Isles; and how Aedan avenged his father’s death and became, against all odds, the progenitor of Scottish kings and the greatest warlord of his age, begins here. For both, what begins as a personal imperative becomes a series of events that lead to the foundation of Iona and the kingdom of Scotland—events that literally change the world. Historically authentic yet told with a bold fictional sweep, “The Chronicles of Iona: Exile” plunges the reader into the world of sixth-century Scotland and Ireland, the veritable Dark Ages—a world on the brink of either collapse or creation, poised between myth and history.
My review:
This book is essentially the story of two men, St Columba and his friend and advisor, Aedan Mac Givran. The books follows their story as they try to survive in the harsh and unforgiving world of 6th century Scotland. Pagan sacrifices, great battles, cruelty and compassion the book has it all. What’s really great about this is that this is such an important and formative period of history and yet it gets hardly any coverage in fiction. We always seem to jump from the Roman Empire to the Tudors … but hardly ever do we look at the ‘dark ages’ and yet what happened there impacted so much and essentially formed the world we know today.
Fantastic read. 5 stars.
Thank you to the author and the tour organizer for providing me with a copy of the book
October 1, 2021
Book source ~ Tour
In 563 A.D. an Irish monk was exiled to Scotland. Or what would one day become Scotland. At this point in time, the Roman Empire has collapsed and Scotland, Ireland, and Britain (as they will be called) are constantly warring, trying to gain a foothold of power in this new chaotic world. It is here that Columba meets the second son of a slain king, Aeden mac Gabran. They have no idea at the time of their meeting that they would end up being two important men whose stories will (mostly) not survive for future generations to read.
This wonderfully written fictional tale is rooted in factual historical details but since very little records survived this time period the author has given us a compelling story of two men who ultimately helped shaped a region into what it is today.
It takes me some time to wrap my brain around the names of the regions, the familial connections, and how these lands are ruled. The history of Ireland, Scotland, and Britain is so intertwined and embattled that it’s almost impossible to untangle since the Dark Ages records are mostly lost. However, the author does a wonderful job of putting together an awesome tale in a way that someone like me, who isn’t a huge fan of History, can fall right in and believe this is how it all went down. Did it? Your guess is as good as mine, or the author’s, or anyone else’s for that matter. But it doesn’t matter. Not really. This is a fictional tale of two real men and the lives they might have led and both are fascinating! I’m looking forward to continuing their journey in book 2, Prophet. Me, looking forward to more History lessons? Inconceivable!
In 563 A.D. an Irish monk was exiled to Scotland. Or what would one day become Scotland. At this point in time, the Roman Empire has collapsed and Scotland, Ireland, and Britain (as they will be called) are constantly warring, trying to gain a foothold of power in this new chaotic world. It is here that Columba meets the second son of a slain king, Aeden mac Gabran. They have no idea at the time of their meeting that they would end up being two important men whose stories will (mostly) not survive for future generations to read.
This wonderfully written fictional tale is rooted in factual historical details but since very little records survived this time period the author has given us a compelling story of two men who ultimately helped shaped a region into what it is today.
It takes me some time to wrap my brain around the names of the regions, the familial connections, and how these lands are ruled. The history of Ireland, Scotland, and Britain is so intertwined and embattled that it’s almost impossible to untangle since the Dark Ages records are mostly lost. However, the author does a wonderful job of putting together an awesome tale in a way that someone like me, who isn’t a huge fan of History, can fall right in and believe this is how it all went down. Did it? Your guess is as good as mine, or the author’s, or anyone else’s for that matter. But it doesn’t matter. Not really. This is a fictional tale of two real men and the lives they might have led and both are fascinating! I’m looking forward to continuing their journey in book 2, Prophet. Me, looking forward to more History lessons? Inconceivable!
June 9, 2016
This is a MUST READ for every history-loving reader! It is a unique piece of prose, a true history and myth mixed together in an imaginative, visionary novel. It's epic, reminding me of "The Vikings" show or "The King Arthur" movie. Full of probable events and miracles, of what might happened and what happened for sure. A story of friendship between the future saint and the greatest of warriors.
It is both entertaining and hypnotic.
It is both entertaining and hypnotic.
September 26, 2021
I loved to see the past through the eyes of actual historical figures. It was great to find them not only on battlefields (even though undoubtedly, much of that took part there), but to also read about their everyday lives. One of the figures we follow is St. Columba, the first missionary in the Scottish Highlands. Exiled from Ireland for murder of the king’s counselor, his aim is to settle down on the Isle of Iona. Columba befriends Aedan Mac Givran, who becomes Columba’s advisor. The first settlement on Himba turns out to be unsafe for Columba and his monks, where the Picts can get to them to easily.
It was very interesting to read about such a time – I mean we are talking the 6th century A.D. here, a period which hardly ever gets talked about in fiction. We read about arduous journeys, pagan sacrifices, early missionary work, ruthless fights, big fortresses and scary battlefields, great warlords but also compassionate people, and even the Loch Ness monster is mentioned (which I’m a huge fan of lol). It becomes clear early on that the author has done tremendous research on this time period, and I loved the insight in original sources we got too.
If I had to name any negatives I’d have to say the writing and storytelling don’t really offer any. It’s just this book isn’t your usual Saturday evening down-time read; it needs your focus, for you to really absorb what you’re reading and not let your thoughts get distracted. But I feel like for those who pick up this book, they know what they are in for and are actively searching for that, so it’s not really a problem. It might not be for everyone – but, let’s be frank – which book is? I, for my part, really liked it.
This is the perfect book for everyone who is interested in the early settlement period in Britain, for all those who love stories of King Alfred and the invasion of the Norsemen, and for all those who like to read up on historical events in the early, for us so dimly lit time periods. The dramatic narrative mixes well with the story of the quest for power, for meaning, for beliefs, but also the accurate historical context, and the enlightening of a time we know so little about.
4.5 stars from me!
For my full review head over to my blog:
https://theartsyreader.com/thewritere...
It was very interesting to read about such a time – I mean we are talking the 6th century A.D. here, a period which hardly ever gets talked about in fiction. We read about arduous journeys, pagan sacrifices, early missionary work, ruthless fights, big fortresses and scary battlefields, great warlords but also compassionate people, and even the Loch Ness monster is mentioned (which I’m a huge fan of lol). It becomes clear early on that the author has done tremendous research on this time period, and I loved the insight in original sources we got too.
If I had to name any negatives I’d have to say the writing and storytelling don’t really offer any. It’s just this book isn’t your usual Saturday evening down-time read; it needs your focus, for you to really absorb what you’re reading and not let your thoughts get distracted. But I feel like for those who pick up this book, they know what they are in for and are actively searching for that, so it’s not really a problem. It might not be for everyone – but, let’s be frank – which book is? I, for my part, really liked it.
This is the perfect book for everyone who is interested in the early settlement period in Britain, for all those who love stories of King Alfred and the invasion of the Norsemen, and for all those who like to read up on historical events in the early, for us so dimly lit time periods. The dramatic narrative mixes well with the story of the quest for power, for meaning, for beliefs, but also the accurate historical context, and the enlightening of a time we know so little about.
4.5 stars from me!
For my full review head over to my blog:
https://theartsyreader.com/thewritere...
October 5, 2021
It took me a while to settle into the story, the pacing was maybe a little slow, but maybe that is just my own feeling as we are talking about a quite detailed historical fiction here and I haven’t read a historical fiction in quite a while now, though it used to be one of my favourite genres. And you know what? As I went along I started to remember why. Historical fiction is in someway bit like fantasy, only it has more realness to it, but it in someways hits harder because you know this stuff is based on things that actually happened.
I liked the general setting, it feels like an are which really doesn’t get enough attention from other authors, so it was nice to be brought somewhere different and despite the possibly slow start I really started getting into it as it went along. The author is very skilled at building her world and characters and by the end I was looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
Recommended. Thanks to the author and the tour organiser for my copy
I liked the general setting, it feels like an are which really doesn’t get enough attention from other authors, so it was nice to be brought somewhere different and despite the possibly slow start I really started getting into it as it went along. The author is very skilled at building her world and characters and by the end I was looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
Recommended. Thanks to the author and the tour organiser for my copy
October 4, 2021
I’m a fan of historical fiction so when I saw a historical fiction set in Scotland during the dark ages was up for a tour I jumped it. I’m glad I did
The Chronicles of Iona begins in 563AD. The Roman Empire has fallen and barbarians and darkness rule the lands that will one day become Scotland and Ireland and lone warrior, named Aedan Mac Garban is pledged to protect an exiled Irish monk in the wilds off the Scottish coast.
Together Aedan and the Monk, Columba, embark on a journey that not only will found Abbey, but that when all else fails will become one of the last strongholds of western knowledge during the dark ages and one day form the core from which a nation shall arise. If you have Apple TV and think this has vague Foundation vibes I can dig it!
I really enjoyed this and would be delighted to read the sequel. I will say you need to really dedicate yourself to this one. The book perhaps starts a little slowly, but it is so worth the effort. But all in all a great read for anybody with the slightest interest in history.
The Chronicles of Iona begins in 563AD. The Roman Empire has fallen and barbarians and darkness rule the lands that will one day become Scotland and Ireland and lone warrior, named Aedan Mac Garban is pledged to protect an exiled Irish monk in the wilds off the Scottish coast.
Together Aedan and the Monk, Columba, embark on a journey that not only will found Abbey, but that when all else fails will become one of the last strongholds of western knowledge during the dark ages and one day form the core from which a nation shall arise. If you have Apple TV and think this has vague Foundation vibes I can dig it!
I really enjoyed this and would be delighted to read the sequel. I will say you need to really dedicate yourself to this one. The book perhaps starts a little slowly, but it is so worth the effort. But all in all a great read for anybody with the slightest interest in history.
October 1, 2021
4.5 stars!
Brilliant storytelling and blend of history! Perfect for history buffs and historical fiction fans, an awesome read and great start to a series!
Brilliant storytelling and blend of history! Perfect for history buffs and historical fiction fans, an awesome read and great start to a series!
October 6, 2012
From my review on Amazon:
This book has everything you could want: real historical context, dramatic narrative, power, lust, swashbuckling, and more. It's a page turner in the style of Michael Crichton or Dan Brown, but as historical fiction. The heroes and villains of the story, as Paula Defougerolles imagines them, are real people with strengths, doubts, and needs just like the rest of us. The fact that we know of them through the fog of so much time makes them all the more interesting.
I can trace my family roots to Scotland, and I found it fascinating to learn how people were moving around the British Isles as far back as 500 A.D. We're not all as different than we might think, it turns out.
If you like great reads that you can actually learn from (painlessly!) then this is a book for you.
This book has everything you could want: real historical context, dramatic narrative, power, lust, swashbuckling, and more. It's a page turner in the style of Michael Crichton or Dan Brown, but as historical fiction. The heroes and villains of the story, as Paula Defougerolles imagines them, are real people with strengths, doubts, and needs just like the rest of us. The fact that we know of them through the fog of so much time makes them all the more interesting.
I can trace my family roots to Scotland, and I found it fascinating to learn how people were moving around the British Isles as far back as 500 A.D. We're not all as different than we might think, it turns out.
If you like great reads that you can actually learn from (painlessly!) then this is a book for you.
September 28, 2021
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
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WHAT'S THE CHRONICLES OF IONA: EXILE ABOUT?
This tale starts in 563 in parts of the world we now call Ireland and Scotland. A monk with royal blood is exiled from Ireland and sent to Scotland. A warrior is tasked by his king to keep the monk and his followers safe and present them to him.
Things start off rocky, but the monk—Columba—settles in for a bit. Then the king hatches a way to use the two of them for his advantage, sending the two off to engage with the Picts and return a hostage.
This partnership is destined to lead to the founding of the Abbey that stood as one of the last strongholds of Western Civilization and learning on Iona.
COLUMBA
Following his exile—and likely the act of violence that precipitated it—Columba lost his faith. Or at least it was damaged greatly.
He still tried to look after his fellow monks that joined him in his exile—he wanted to do right by them—he wanted to do the right thing in general and when he could. He tried to preserve life and peace, to find a way to make a new life for himself and his followers. But he did so without any reassurance or conviction that the God he'd pledged himself to would bless the endeavor.
His struggle with doubt, with fear, and with a loss of faith was (personally) the most interesting storyline in the novel.
AEDAN MAC GABRAN
Aedan has more emotional baggage than your typical warrior character—even one beset by perceived failure and grief. But he's still the character that you've seen before (at least the type), it's easy for the reader to enjoy Aedan, root for him, and understand what he's going through.
There's a prophecy that plagues him, too—family problems, a broken heart, grief, and a prophecy. Aedan doesn't have a lot going for him other than a near-supernatural ability to fight.
Pair him up with a man of peace and you've got yourself plenty of fodder for a plot and conflict.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE CHRONICLES OF IONA: EXILE?
I really wish I knew the history of this time better so I'd know how to evaluate parts of this—I can't tell if Columba spouts (at best) heterodox sentiments because that's what de Fougerolles wants to put in his mouth, or if she's being consistent with him (for example) or some of the cultural mores of various groups in the book. I have an easier time buying the latter than the former. If however, this was just a realistic fantasy, I wouldn't have cared either way--it's just the historical aspect of this that gets me curious and reticent to evaluate.
What I do feel comfortable talking about is the writing—I would like to read some straight history from de Fougerolles, something tells me she'd be good at it. I'm not so sure she should write romantic/erotic dialogue (unless she's reflecting contemporary phrases), however.
The pacing of this book left a little to be desired, de Fougerolles spent so much time setting up the world, introducing the characters, and moving things into place to get to the main action of the novel that it took an act of will to be patient enough to get through it. It was interesting enough to stay with it—but barely.
But when all the dominos were set up and the novel transitioned into telling the story promised in the blurb? It moved quickly, confidently, and engagingly. It felt like I'd put down one book and started reading another—a much more enjoyable one. Think of it as a Tootsie Roll Tootsie Pop that you can't bite your way into the center of* but you have to lick and lick and lick through the hard candy coating to get to the Tootsie Roll center. But once you get to the center? Chewy sweetness.
* I never said it was a perfect analogy.
If the entire book read like the second half? This would be a rave—instead, it's a cautious recommendation. It's a good read, and a rewarding one—you just have to put in the time and effort for it. It's a great mix of legend, history, and compelling storytelling.
My guess is, by the way, that the pacing issue wouldn't be a factor if I'd read the entire trilogy in one swoop—assuming it keeps going on the way it was by the end. So, is it a weakness? Sure, but not a fatal one.
Columba and Aedan (and Aedan's dog) are characters you enjoy spending time with and want to get to know better—there are one or two that show up later in the book that fit that bill, too. Having two more books to explore the characters and their world is just what the doctor ordered. For people interested in Celtic history, an interesting take on early Christianity meeting paganism, or just a good story about people from two different worlds coming together to forge an alliance—The Chronicles of Iona is worth your time.
My thanks to The Write Reads for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials they provided.
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WHAT'S THE CHRONICLES OF IONA: EXILE ABOUT?
This tale starts in 563 in parts of the world we now call Ireland and Scotland. A monk with royal blood is exiled from Ireland and sent to Scotland. A warrior is tasked by his king to keep the monk and his followers safe and present them to him.
Things start off rocky, but the monk—Columba—settles in for a bit. Then the king hatches a way to use the two of them for his advantage, sending the two off to engage with the Picts and return a hostage.
This partnership is destined to lead to the founding of the Abbey that stood as one of the last strongholds of Western Civilization and learning on Iona.
COLUMBA
Following his exile—and likely the act of violence that precipitated it—Columba lost his faith. Or at least it was damaged greatly.
He still tried to look after his fellow monks that joined him in his exile—he wanted to do right by them—he wanted to do the right thing in general and when he could. He tried to preserve life and peace, to find a way to make a new life for himself and his followers. But he did so without any reassurance or conviction that the God he'd pledged himself to would bless the endeavor.
His struggle with doubt, with fear, and with a loss of faith was (personally) the most interesting storyline in the novel.
AEDAN MAC GABRAN
Aedan has more emotional baggage than your typical warrior character—even one beset by perceived failure and grief. But he's still the character that you've seen before (at least the type), it's easy for the reader to enjoy Aedan, root for him, and understand what he's going through.
There's a prophecy that plagues him, too—family problems, a broken heart, grief, and a prophecy. Aedan doesn't have a lot going for him other than a near-supernatural ability to fight.
Pair him up with a man of peace and you've got yourself plenty of fodder for a plot and conflict.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE CHRONICLES OF IONA: EXILE?
I really wish I knew the history of this time better so I'd know how to evaluate parts of this—I can't tell if Columba spouts (at best) heterodox sentiments because that's what de Fougerolles wants to put in his mouth, or if she's being consistent with him (for example) or some of the cultural mores of various groups in the book. I have an easier time buying the latter than the former. If however, this was just a realistic fantasy, I wouldn't have cared either way--it's just the historical aspect of this that gets me curious and reticent to evaluate.
What I do feel comfortable talking about is the writing—I would like to read some straight history from de Fougerolles, something tells me she'd be good at it. I'm not so sure she should write romantic/erotic dialogue (unless she's reflecting contemporary phrases), however.
The pacing of this book left a little to be desired, de Fougerolles spent so much time setting up the world, introducing the characters, and moving things into place to get to the main action of the novel that it took an act of will to be patient enough to get through it. It was interesting enough to stay with it—but barely.
But when all the dominos were set up and the novel transitioned into telling the story promised in the blurb? It moved quickly, confidently, and engagingly. It felt like I'd put down one book and started reading another—a much more enjoyable one. Think of it as a Tootsie Roll Tootsie Pop that you can't bite your way into the center of* but you have to lick and lick and lick through the hard candy coating to get to the Tootsie Roll center. But once you get to the center? Chewy sweetness.
* I never said it was a perfect analogy.
If the entire book read like the second half? This would be a rave—instead, it's a cautious recommendation. It's a good read, and a rewarding one—you just have to put in the time and effort for it. It's a great mix of legend, history, and compelling storytelling.
My guess is, by the way, that the pacing issue wouldn't be a factor if I'd read the entire trilogy in one swoop—assuming it keeps going on the way it was by the end. So, is it a weakness? Sure, but not a fatal one.
Columba and Aedan (and Aedan's dog) are characters you enjoy spending time with and want to get to know better—there are one or two that show up later in the book that fit that bill, too. Having two more books to explore the characters and their world is just what the doctor ordered. For people interested in Celtic history, an interesting take on early Christianity meeting paganism, or just a good story about people from two different worlds coming together to forge an alliance—The Chronicles of Iona is worth your time.
My thanks to The Write Reads for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials they provided.
October 14, 2021
The first book in the Chronicles of Iona series, Exile, is both exciting and tragic. Paula de Fougerolles pens a story based on real events that are still relevant today. Anyone who knows me knows how much I adore history. I especially love history in a story format. This book delivers a great deal of history about an era I know very little about, and it is outstanding.
On the whole, this novel is incredible. It is a bit dry, I admit, but the story itself made me feel like I was part of the history as it was happening. I adored learning about this period and will be reading the rest of the series to learn even more. I’m excited to watch the isle of Iona become extraordinary. And follow Aedan’s tale as it becomes even more involved. I want to learn more about the Dark Ages and the formation of Scotland, the land of my own ancestors.
I award The Chronicles of Iona: Exile 4 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to anyone who has a love of history. While the story feels a bit academic, it is still interesting, and it drew me in.
I was given a digital copy of this book with a request for an honest review.
On the whole, this novel is incredible. It is a bit dry, I admit, but the story itself made me feel like I was part of the history as it was happening. I adored learning about this period and will be reading the rest of the series to learn even more. I’m excited to watch the isle of Iona become extraordinary. And follow Aedan’s tale as it becomes even more involved. I want to learn more about the Dark Ages and the formation of Scotland, the land of my own ancestors.
I award The Chronicles of Iona: Exile 4 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to anyone who has a love of history. While the story feels a bit academic, it is still interesting, and it drew me in.
I was given a digital copy of this book with a request for an honest review.
October 5, 2021
The Chronicles of Iona: Exile by Paula de Fougerolles is an historical fiction novel set in Scotland during the Dark Ages. I am a history geek so this book really was a no brainer for me and I am so glad I accepted the invite!
The Chronicles of Iona: Exile tells the story of the Irish monk and Scottish warrior, Saint Columba and Aedan mac Gabran, who would band together to lay the foundation of the nation of Scotland. They were a real-life 6th-century Merlin and King Arthur and their story has never been told.
The book begins in 563 A.D. The Roman Empire is long gone, freeing the region of Scotland from the threat of imperial rule but opening it to chaos from warring tribes vying for control. Columba, a powerful abbot-prince, is exiled from Ireland to the pagan colony of Dal Riata on Scotland’s west coast for an act of violence. There he encounters Aedan, the down-and-out second son of the colony’s former king, slain by the Picts.
Together, this unlikely pair travels the breadth of a divided realm, each in search of his own kind of unity. Their path is fraught with blood feuds, lost love, treachery, dark gods and monsters, but also with miracles and valor. Beset on all sides, their only hope is to become allies—and to forge a daring alliance with the pagan Picts.
How Columba overcame exile and a crisis of faith to found the famous monastery of Iona (one of the greatest centers of learning in Dark Age Europe) and, from it, the Celtic Church in the British Isles; and how Aedan avenged his father’s death and became, against all odds, the progenitor of Scottish kings and the greatest warlord of his age, begins here.
For both, what begins as a personal imperative becomes a series of events that lead to the foundation of Iona and the kingdom of Scotland—events that literally change the world.
A novel that took me all the way back to 563 AD. Along with St Columba and Aedan two very real historical figures, I travelled the breadth of a Scotland that I could easily picture due to Paula de Fougerolles excellent vivid imagery. A story based on historical truth and seamlessly interwoven with fiction to create a masterpiece of a book. I know nothing of Scotlands history and I really got caught up in this tale that brought heroics in the battlefield, ordinary life and their loves too. This is a story that highlighted the similarities between present day and then. Politics and other things are changed now but the same land still stands and the basics are the same.
Paula de Fougerolles is clearly passionate and very knowledgeable about Scotland and this historical period. The amount of research that must have gone into writing this book has to be immense. The love for this time shines through as the story unfolds and it's grasp tightens on you. It is a technicolour history lesson almost.
I am looking forward to having the time to read the other books in this series.
Thanks such to The Write Reads for inviting me on this tour and Paula de Fougerolles for my copy of this enthralling and captivating book.
The Chronicles of Iona: Exile tells the story of the Irish monk and Scottish warrior, Saint Columba and Aedan mac Gabran, who would band together to lay the foundation of the nation of Scotland. They were a real-life 6th-century Merlin and King Arthur and their story has never been told.
The book begins in 563 A.D. The Roman Empire is long gone, freeing the region of Scotland from the threat of imperial rule but opening it to chaos from warring tribes vying for control. Columba, a powerful abbot-prince, is exiled from Ireland to the pagan colony of Dal Riata on Scotland’s west coast for an act of violence. There he encounters Aedan, the down-and-out second son of the colony’s former king, slain by the Picts.
Together, this unlikely pair travels the breadth of a divided realm, each in search of his own kind of unity. Their path is fraught with blood feuds, lost love, treachery, dark gods and monsters, but also with miracles and valor. Beset on all sides, their only hope is to become allies—and to forge a daring alliance with the pagan Picts.
How Columba overcame exile and a crisis of faith to found the famous monastery of Iona (one of the greatest centers of learning in Dark Age Europe) and, from it, the Celtic Church in the British Isles; and how Aedan avenged his father’s death and became, against all odds, the progenitor of Scottish kings and the greatest warlord of his age, begins here.
For both, what begins as a personal imperative becomes a series of events that lead to the foundation of Iona and the kingdom of Scotland—events that literally change the world.
A novel that took me all the way back to 563 AD. Along with St Columba and Aedan two very real historical figures, I travelled the breadth of a Scotland that I could easily picture due to Paula de Fougerolles excellent vivid imagery. A story based on historical truth and seamlessly interwoven with fiction to create a masterpiece of a book. I know nothing of Scotlands history and I really got caught up in this tale that brought heroics in the battlefield, ordinary life and their loves too. This is a story that highlighted the similarities between present day and then. Politics and other things are changed now but the same land still stands and the basics are the same.
Paula de Fougerolles is clearly passionate and very knowledgeable about Scotland and this historical period. The amount of research that must have gone into writing this book has to be immense. The love for this time shines through as the story unfolds and it's grasp tightens on you. It is a technicolour history lesson almost.
I am looking forward to having the time to read the other books in this series.
Thanks such to The Write Reads for inviting me on this tour and Paula de Fougerolles for my copy of this enthralling and captivating book.
March 31, 2023
Always fascinated by early medieval history and this did not disappoint. This part of the series deals with how St. Columba came to be on Iona and everything he had to go through to secure the use of the island. Early Irish and Scottish history and the battle between the religions of the tribes and Christianity.
October 28, 2024
Encompassing
I wish I had read glossary and historical review first. It's at the back of the book. I am a pulled by any writings of Irish history. I read this book rapidly the first time. Immediately I read it slowly to absorb every detail and emotion. Ready now for book 2. I recommend this book to all.
I wish I had read glossary and historical review first. It's at the back of the book. I am a pulled by any writings of Irish history. I read this book rapidly the first time. Immediately I read it slowly to absorb every detail and emotion. Ready now for book 2. I recommend this book to all.
December 11, 2019
Superb book. If you know Saint Columba and Iona this is an excellent read. Cannot wait to read the second and third. Totally engrossing.
May 16, 2022
A young clerk at the Abbey gift shop tried to warn me off this series — so glad I ignored her! Already have the second installment downloaded.
August 18, 2022
DNF. Poor editing made it too hard to get invested in the characters
December 27, 2021
Saint Columba, an Irish monk, is a follower of the wrong god. The God he follows is loving and kind, whereas the gods that the others follow all have more insidious things that fuel them. He claims to have been chosen as a child by his God to be a monk, but his parents were very confused when he said that he felt immense love when he heard the voice. His people were used to gods who also reacted very visibly. A god might kill a neighboring family with plague for not giving the proper offering, or might speak directly to their followers. Columba’s god never did this, and yet Columba had dedicated his whole life to preaching his beliefs. That was until he killed someone and was exiled. Now, Columba and a Scottish warlord named Aedan, two outcasts, must travel through the war-torn land to try to find their next place to call home.
I love historical fiction so I knew I had to be a part of this tour! The books I read usually take place from the mid 1700s to late 1800s, so this was a tad further back than I usually go as it was set in the 500s. Nevertheless, this book truly showed that modern issues have been around in similar forms for many, many years.
Aedan’s story was one of political drama and forbidden love. His father was killed by the Picts and his colony stolen from him, driving Aedan on a path of revenge for his father’s life and family’s birthright. He has the misfortune to fall for one he cannot have, and she will be the one to constantly keep his mind busy whilst he goes on this journey with Columba. Columba’s story was more focused on religion, beliefs, and forging your own path. Columba has beliefs that he has held strongly since he was a young boy, but this was a time when the gods spoke in the forms of miracles or tragedies. His was rather silent as the pagan gods seemed to constantly be doing good or bad deeds towards their believers or nonbelievers. Whether those deeds were truly the actions of a god or the misinterpretations of an uneducated population, that was for Columba to see on his journey.
I found myself enjoying this book once i was around 30% of the way through. It was a slow start as I struggled to feel connected to the characters and the setting. This is definitely one of those books where you truly have to focus to become immersed in the story, which is something that I struggle with from time to time. I’ve been spoiled by fast 2-hour read romance novels, so slow burn novels take a minute for me to get into. Once the story picked up, I couldn’t put the book down. The battle scenes captivated me as I couldn’t wait to see who became the victor, and the romantic drama had me on the absolute edge of my seat. It took me a few nights of reading to get through this book (definitely used the highlight feature of my Kindle to keep track of important story bits!) but I felt so satisfied once I finished it. Hopefully someday soon I will get the chance to pick up the second book in the series to see how Columba and Aedan’s story continues.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an in-depth historical fiction novel.
I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
I love historical fiction so I knew I had to be a part of this tour! The books I read usually take place from the mid 1700s to late 1800s, so this was a tad further back than I usually go as it was set in the 500s. Nevertheless, this book truly showed that modern issues have been around in similar forms for many, many years.
Aedan’s story was one of political drama and forbidden love. His father was killed by the Picts and his colony stolen from him, driving Aedan on a path of revenge for his father’s life and family’s birthright. He has the misfortune to fall for one he cannot have, and she will be the one to constantly keep his mind busy whilst he goes on this journey with Columba. Columba’s story was more focused on religion, beliefs, and forging your own path. Columba has beliefs that he has held strongly since he was a young boy, but this was a time when the gods spoke in the forms of miracles or tragedies. His was rather silent as the pagan gods seemed to constantly be doing good or bad deeds towards their believers or nonbelievers. Whether those deeds were truly the actions of a god or the misinterpretations of an uneducated population, that was for Columba to see on his journey.
I found myself enjoying this book once i was around 30% of the way through. It was a slow start as I struggled to feel connected to the characters and the setting. This is definitely one of those books where you truly have to focus to become immersed in the story, which is something that I struggle with from time to time. I’ve been spoiled by fast 2-hour read romance novels, so slow burn novels take a minute for me to get into. Once the story picked up, I couldn’t put the book down. The battle scenes captivated me as I couldn’t wait to see who became the victor, and the romantic drama had me on the absolute edge of my seat. It took me a few nights of reading to get through this book (definitely used the highlight feature of my Kindle to keep track of important story bits!) but I felt so satisfied once I finished it. Hopefully someday soon I will get the chance to pick up the second book in the series to see how Columba and Aedan’s story continues.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an in-depth historical fiction novel.
I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
January 6, 2014
Excellent read! This book kept me up until 4:00 in the morning for a couple of nights as I kept telling myself, just one more chapter. I just had to continue on reading about the exploits of Columba and Aedan mac Gabran,their interaction with Scottish & Pictish societies, and how Columba came to settle on Iona. I've been there and it is quite a beautiful spot even in the rain though it's more settled than in Columba's day.
February 12, 2017
This book was very engaging and interesting! I had actually accidently bought this about a year ago on my kindle (it's a long story), and I only just got to it. :) I only regret not reading it sooner. I'm not sure if the author is Christian, but I definitely noticed the spiritual side of it. It's so fun to find it!
Even now, when I'm out of the heat of my Dark-Age Scotland phase, I love this! It is not a book to pass up.
Even now, when I'm out of the heat of my Dark-Age Scotland phase, I love this! It is not a book to pass up.
October 28, 2013
not a great book. a little juvenile. but interesting in that it weaves the little known about columba and the founding of iona into a somewhat plausible story...actually more like a myth or fairy tale. entertaining.
January 26, 2016
Solid historical underpinnings (not just your vague Celtic setting here), with a good admixture of religion and magic.
August 10, 2017
couldn't get into it...
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