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Celtic Fervour #4
Agricola's Bane
"A great read that's loaded with carefully researched detail, placing the reader at the northern most extreme of Roman Britannia in the first century."
A hollow triumph. A fruitless search. Complete fulfilment is too elusive.AD 84 Caledonia. Seeking the spoils of war…
Enya searches for the young Garrigill warriors not seen since the battle between the Caledonian Allies and the mighty legions of Rome. Should Enya choose the trail that might lead northwards to her brother? Or should she seek definite proof that her cousin has been taken captive by the Romans?
Nith goes with Enya on her perilous mission. Along the way, what has always been a foster-brother concern turns to feelings much more profound, but does she love him…or another warrior?
General Agricola’s burning desire for a successful Roman Empire Invasion means conquering the whole island of Britannia. However, the valuable spoils of war, and a healthy slave count, are hard to come by. A deeply superstitious man, Agricola believes his goddess Fortuna has abandoned him –his emperor likewise.
Who gains success and satisfaction? Is it Agricola…or Enya and Nith?
The adventures of the Garrigill Clan continue…
“I love being back with these guys, and we get to see a glimpse of the original characters in this, but the focus is on Enya this time and on her search.” Curled Up With A Good Book - Blogger Reviewer
Readers who love adventure fiction about occupying Roman Empire invaders will enjoy Agricola’s Bane.
A hollow triumph. A fruitless search. Complete fulfilment is too elusive.AD 84 Caledonia. Seeking the spoils of war…
Enya searches for the young Garrigill warriors not seen since the battle between the Caledonian Allies and the mighty legions of Rome. Should Enya choose the trail that might lead northwards to her brother? Or should she seek definite proof that her cousin has been taken captive by the Romans?
Nith goes with Enya on her perilous mission. Along the way, what has always been a foster-brother concern turns to feelings much more profound, but does she love him…or another warrior?
General Agricola’s burning desire for a successful Roman Empire Invasion means conquering the whole island of Britannia. However, the valuable spoils of war, and a healthy slave count, are hard to come by. A deeply superstitious man, Agricola believes his goddess Fortuna has abandoned him –his emperor likewise.
Who gains success and satisfaction? Is it Agricola…or Enya and Nith?
The adventures of the Garrigill Clan continue…
“I love being back with these guys, and we get to see a glimpse of the original characters in this, but the focus is on Enya this time and on her search.” Curled Up With A Good Book - Blogger Reviewer
Readers who love adventure fiction about occupying Roman Empire invaders will enjoy Agricola’s Bane.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 20, 2020
The fourth novel in the Celtic Fervour series is standalone, although I highly recommend the first three books to gain more insight into the Garrigill characters and back story.
The story picks up where we left off in Donning Double Cloaks as the focus switches over to the younger generation of the Garrigill Clan. It's AD84 and Beathan, son of Lorcan and Ruoridh, son of Gabrond are missing after the devastating battle at Beinn na Ciche between the Caledonians and the Roman legion. Therefore, aided by Nith of Tarras, Enya, the young warrior daughter of Gabrond sets out to find her kin and to gain valuable intelligence about Agricola's intentions.
While there's much focus on the adventure and fortunes of the young warriors, the author keeps us informed about Agricola, as he continues his ruthless campaign. After sevens summers as governor of Britannia, he's becoming weary of his time in Northern Britain, especially during the harsh winters in areas he deems inhospitable barbarian territories.
As I've come to expect with a Nancy Jardine novel, the narrative is full to the brim with fascinating insights and historical details. While it takes me a while to fully remember the names of the characters and places, the writing style makes it easier to absorb the rich facts skilfully wrapped around intriguing plot lines. Set against a timeline I knew very little about before picking up the first book in this series, I also appreciate how the author brings the characters to life, specifically, Enya and her confusing emotions. It's a time in her life where she's coming of age and has conflicting feelings; she has to choose to between what she believes is right for her family, rather than listen to her heart.
Overall, the ending is satisfying and the scene is set for book five. This series has hooked me in and I hope the next instalment is ready to read soon?
***review copy received courtesy of the publisher Ocelot Press***
The story picks up where we left off in Donning Double Cloaks as the focus switches over to the younger generation of the Garrigill Clan. It's AD84 and Beathan, son of Lorcan and Ruoridh, son of Gabrond are missing after the devastating battle at Beinn na Ciche between the Caledonians and the Roman legion. Therefore, aided by Nith of Tarras, Enya, the young warrior daughter of Gabrond sets out to find her kin and to gain valuable intelligence about Agricola's intentions.
While there's much focus on the adventure and fortunes of the young warriors, the author keeps us informed about Agricola, as he continues his ruthless campaign. After sevens summers as governor of Britannia, he's becoming weary of his time in Northern Britain, especially during the harsh winters in areas he deems inhospitable barbarian territories.
As I've come to expect with a Nancy Jardine novel, the narrative is full to the brim with fascinating insights and historical details. While it takes me a while to fully remember the names of the characters and places, the writing style makes it easier to absorb the rich facts skilfully wrapped around intriguing plot lines. Set against a timeline I knew very little about before picking up the first book in this series, I also appreciate how the author brings the characters to life, specifically, Enya and her confusing emotions. It's a time in her life where she's coming of age and has conflicting feelings; she has to choose to between what she believes is right for her family, rather than listen to her heart.
Overall, the ending is satisfying and the scene is set for book five. This series has hooked me in and I hope the next instalment is ready to read soon?
***review copy received courtesy of the publisher Ocelot Press***
January 27, 2019
Scottish Spears Awaits Agricola on his Northern Foray
The history of the British Isles is shrouded in mists the further back you go, leaving us guessing at what might have happened, based around scraps of scant archaeological and historical evidence. The exception to this is the meticulous record keeping of the Romans. In this historical novel, the author skilfully blends Roman history with her best guess as to what conditions and opposition the legions of governor of Britannia, Agricola, would have encountered in his brief foray northwards into the heart of modern day Scotland. We feel the trepidation of the tribal leaders and their suspicions of each other, and witness their hit-and-run raids that do little more than frustrate the well-defined legionaries. A growing tenderness develops between warriors Nith and Enya as they battle Roman patrols in their search for her brother, and the worry that he might have joined the cruel train of shackled slaves heading for the galleys. We see the natural world through their eyes as they entreat their gods for protection and for the insight to understand their powerful enemies. A great read that's loaded with carefully researched detail, placing the reader at the northern most extreme of Roman Britannia in the first century.
The history of the British Isles is shrouded in mists the further back you go, leaving us guessing at what might have happened, based around scraps of scant archaeological and historical evidence. The exception to this is the meticulous record keeping of the Romans. In this historical novel, the author skilfully blends Roman history with her best guess as to what conditions and opposition the legions of governor of Britannia, Agricola, would have encountered in his brief foray northwards into the heart of modern day Scotland. We feel the trepidation of the tribal leaders and their suspicions of each other, and witness their hit-and-run raids that do little more than frustrate the well-defined legionaries. A growing tenderness develops between warriors Nith and Enya as they battle Roman patrols in their search for her brother, and the worry that he might have joined the cruel train of shackled slaves heading for the galleys. We see the natural world through their eyes as they entreat their gods for protection and for the insight to understand their powerful enemies. A great read that's loaded with carefully researched detail, placing the reader at the northern most extreme of Roman Britannia in the first century.
June 20, 2021
Another brilliant book in this captivating series. One gets the feel of the passage of time in the battles and trials of the people of ancient Britain under the aggression of Agricola, with the story continuing through the travels of the next generation of Brigantes. We learn more of Agricolo’s frustrations not just with his own ongoing issues with his legions but with the demands of his emperor Domitian. Another great read.
February 16, 2020
Well I was excited to be back with some of my favourite Celtic tribes. This follows on after the battle at Beinn na Ciche which did NOT go well in the previous book, and this time we’re with Enya of Garrigill as she sets off to find her missing brother and cousin. Accompanying her are Nith and Feargus – two warriors who she is unsure of her feelings for……Will they find her relatives? Will they make it there unharmed? And will she figure out her feelings?
I love being back with these guys, and we get to see a glimpse of the original characters in this but the focus is on Enya this time on her search. This book is a little less action packed that previous books – we don’t have a big battle, but what we do have is an insight into the life of the North Britannia. The plot follows Enya, Nith and Feargus as they encounter multiple local tribal villages and see the impact the Romans have had across their territory. We also have an insight into life as a captive, and the thoughts of General Agricola and his minions.
The descriptions are wonderful as usual, letting you really immerse yourself in the story and imagine what it was like being there. I was slightly disappointed that there wasn’t a bit more action, but the story was still thoroughly enjoyable. I did come to this book expecting it to be the last in the series so was looking forward to seeing how things wrapped up, but have found out there is at least one other in the series so I didn’t get the satisfaction I thought I was going to have. However, I am looking forward to another book so we can see what else has been happening in Britannia. I do feel the novel could have been slightly shorter based on the fact that it doesn’t wrap things up, but again don’t let this put you off. If you’ve enjoyed the previous three, you’ll enjoy being back!
If you haven’t read the previous books, you could probably read this as a standalone as it refers back to the things that have happened that have an impact on the story. Although I would recommend reading the others first – if for no other reason than they are fab!
I love being back with these guys, and we get to see a glimpse of the original characters in this but the focus is on Enya this time on her search. This book is a little less action packed that previous books – we don’t have a big battle, but what we do have is an insight into the life of the North Britannia. The plot follows Enya, Nith and Feargus as they encounter multiple local tribal villages and see the impact the Romans have had across their territory. We also have an insight into life as a captive, and the thoughts of General Agricola and his minions.
The descriptions are wonderful as usual, letting you really immerse yourself in the story and imagine what it was like being there. I was slightly disappointed that there wasn’t a bit more action, but the story was still thoroughly enjoyable. I did come to this book expecting it to be the last in the series so was looking forward to seeing how things wrapped up, but have found out there is at least one other in the series so I didn’t get the satisfaction I thought I was going to have. However, I am looking forward to another book so we can see what else has been happening in Britannia. I do feel the novel could have been slightly shorter based on the fact that it doesn’t wrap things up, but again don’t let this put you off. If you’ve enjoyed the previous three, you’ll enjoy being back!
If you haven’t read the previous books, you could probably read this as a standalone as it refers back to the things that have happened that have an impact on the story. Although I would recommend reading the others first – if for no other reason than they are fab!
December 23, 2024
'Agricola's Bane' follows the travails of the Garragill clan in the immediate aftermath of the battle at Beinn na Ciche. I appreciated the quick resumption, as there are many questions left unanswered at the end of Donning Double Cloaks. Jardine's writing thrusts you back into the midst of her saga, immersing you once more in her world of Roman Scotland.
The primary characters are certainly Enya, Nith, and Feargas as they go on a journey to find Enya's missing brother and cousin. They encounter several different tribes and settlements on the way and come to better understand one another on their travels. Their discovery of undercover exploratores in the midst of Vacomagi territory was a thrilling side plot with an apt payoff at the book's conclusion.
Beathan's chapters I found especially intriguing as he finds himself enslaved by the Romans and travelling south. Equally, the characterization given to Governor Agricola I particularly enjoyed. Seeing more humanizing of the Roman occupiers really rounded out Jardine's world. I very much look forward to reading more about both of these characters in the next book!
This book is well-researched and plotted. You feel the despair and fatigue of her young travellers, the frustrations of Agricola, and the determination of Beathan to survive. I really appreciated the maps provided here, as well as the historical/author's notes in the back explaining the amount of work that went into writing this book. The effort shows, and is much appreciated!
The primary characters are certainly Enya, Nith, and Feargas as they go on a journey to find Enya's missing brother and cousin. They encounter several different tribes and settlements on the way and come to better understand one another on their travels. Their discovery of undercover exploratores in the midst of Vacomagi territory was a thrilling side plot with an apt payoff at the book's conclusion.
Beathan's chapters I found especially intriguing as he finds himself enslaved by the Romans and travelling south. Equally, the characterization given to Governor Agricola I particularly enjoyed. Seeing more humanizing of the Roman occupiers really rounded out Jardine's world. I very much look forward to reading more about both of these characters in the next book!
This book is well-researched and plotted. You feel the despair and fatigue of her young travellers, the frustrations of Agricola, and the determination of Beathan to survive. I really appreciated the maps provided here, as well as the historical/author's notes in the back explaining the amount of work that went into writing this book. The effort shows, and is much appreciated!
January 28, 2020
Agricola’s Bane is the next installment in the Celtic Fervour Series, and it is just as exciting as the other in the series. Readers could probably read this as a standalone, but I wouldn’t recommend it. All the background information and characters from previous novels are present in this book even though this is about the next generation in a sense.
Enya is in search for her brother and her cousin who are missing, and she can’t decide which direction she should go. I felt so sorry for her because her heart is torn. However, she is just as fierce as her fellow male warriors. She also has her own potential love story brewing, but this isn’t a romance book, it’s an adventure filled with danger at every turn.
Not only is it told from Enya’s POV. There are several characters that have a story to tell, especially her cousin and her brother. In addition, the horrible villain, Agricola, is telling his own tale. As I have written before about this particular writer, she is very talented in juggling her characters.
As with all the other books, this one is just as well-written. Jardine will transport you back in time, and readers will feel like they are right there alongside the characters.
Enya is in search for her brother and her cousin who are missing, and she can’t decide which direction she should go. I felt so sorry for her because her heart is torn. However, she is just as fierce as her fellow male warriors. She also has her own potential love story brewing, but this isn’t a romance book, it’s an adventure filled with danger at every turn.
Not only is it told from Enya’s POV. There are several characters that have a story to tell, especially her cousin and her brother. In addition, the horrible villain, Agricola, is telling his own tale. As I have written before about this particular writer, she is very talented in juggling her characters.
As with all the other books, this one is just as well-written. Jardine will transport you back in time, and readers will feel like they are right there alongside the characters.
February 3, 2020
Nancy Jardine has done it again with Agricola’s Bane! I am in love with this series and I cannot rave about it enough. This is how Historical Fiction should be done. In 2019, I made a decision to read more historical novels, and this series was one of the ones that made me fall in love with the genre.
Nancy Jardine is able to catapult her readers back in time and drop us right into the story. I love the historical accuracy, it feels authentic and clearly shows the research that went into this series.
I also enjoy the fact that each book has consistently gotten better. Not once have I felt like the story is being over done, each book brings a new light to the overall series.
If you enjoy Historical Fiction or you’re curious about the genre, I highly recommend this series. The books should be read in order, in my opinion. I had no qualms about giving this 5 stars!
5/5☆
*I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review on the Blog Tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
Nancy Jardine is able to catapult her readers back in time and drop us right into the story. I love the historical accuracy, it feels authentic and clearly shows the research that went into this series.
I also enjoy the fact that each book has consistently gotten better. Not once have I felt like the story is being over done, each book brings a new light to the overall series.
If you enjoy Historical Fiction or you’re curious about the genre, I highly recommend this series. The books should be read in order, in my opinion. I had no qualms about giving this 5 stars!
5/5☆
*I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review on the Blog Tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
July 22, 2021
Another wonderful read from this author.
This is the 4th book in the series - it can be read as a standalone but it follows on from the previous book.
Excellent characters and storyline, I loved the intricacy of the plot and the way the author referenced historical time points
A truly excellent read
This is the 4th book in the series - it can be read as a standalone but it follows on from the previous book.
Excellent characters and storyline, I loved the intricacy of the plot and the way the author referenced historical time points
A truly excellent read
August 31, 2021
This was another great read in this series. If you like books dating way back in history and are fiction, then this is a series to try. I find it captivating
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews