Godforsaken

by Steven L. Shrewsbury

In 59 AD, as the Celt horde on Anglesey succumbs to Roman aggression, war goddess Fey grants Lucan Mac Aliester his wish—life. Lucan soon discovers that it is not his Druidic people the bargain elevates, but himself. He receives not only great strength and a command over wolves, but the ability to see through the eyes of ravens. But what is the genuine motive for the bequest of Fey? This chronicle tells of Lucan's bloody journey from chieftain to the deified leader of a new barbarian race. Through Gaul, to the Roman arena, ruins of Babylon, the Garden of Eden, the temple of Ashtaroth and ultimately, into the abode of the frost giants, Lucan discovers the burden of what he is—a god.

271 pages, Paperback

First published August 15, 2005

Reviews

[Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

A historic/fantastic book for fans of R.E. Howard's work, especially Bran Mak Morn and Cormac Mac Art. The story does a good job of weaving a variety of mythologies and cultures into the growth of the hero, Lucan. There's quite a lot to admire about Shrewsbury's story, but the book is let down by spotty editing. There are a bunch of mistakes present in the finished product, as well as places where stylistic alterations would have made the writing stronger.

I've met Steven Shrewsbury, and he's a heck of a guy. I don't think the finished product here quite reflects his skill as a writer, but if you can look past the "warts", it's a good swords-and sorcery tale.

[Mochnant · Rating 1 out of 5]

Amateurish writing and a silly storyline put this novel one step above fan-fiction.