Review: 4 stars for this amazing novel
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 08 24, 2013
Phillips does an amazing job at bringing history to life.  You feel like you've actually seen the Roman invasion of Britannia and lived the life of one of those captured.  Phillips also makes the time period approachable to those who aren't familiar with the expansion of Rome by simultaneously mixing modern language with historical content and altogether brilliant storytelling.Phillips presents this intriguing love story in a very unique light that is not for the faint of heart.  She uses subtle switches in language and demeanour to highlight and illustrate important ideas while foreshadowing to what may come.  There are lots of twists in the plot that one would never suspect or expect but that fit naturally with the flow of the story.  She keeps her readers on their toes while pulling them towards a very unexpected yet extremely fitting conclusion that will warm your heart.Phillips also presents us with some extraordinary characters to round out this novel.  They must fight against themselves and the perceptions of their respective cultures to gain something for themselves and to discover what truly matters to them.  The reader gets to know a great deal about the main characters as individuals and as members of their culture.  The characters become quite well known to us.  The supporting cast, although small, is also quite well developed and the roles that they play in the story are not only necessary but captivating.Overall, Phillips' mix of modern language and historical setting create a novel that you won't soon forget.Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.