Review of A Druid's Odyssey

[Priya Murugesan]

This shares an overview of the life lived in history by those who had been before us. It's always intriguing what we can read and learn about—people, culture, and places. The world is at our fingertips, and it's great when we learn something worthwhile each day. I am also curious to find out if her lover saved her. Thank you for sharing a detailed review. I look forward to reading it.

Hope you love it!

[Priya Murugesan]

The names in the book are both new to me and old. They're quite hard to grasp on the first glimpse. It's like I'm reading a new language.
Your review was amazing. I felt like I was already reading a piece of the story myself!

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Share This Review

---

Ó hEaghra, known as Harra in Rome, is a druid native to Hibernia. He is a skilled wanderer whose travel originates from Hibernia and ultimately stops at Rome where he becomes a slave to Claudius Galen, a prominent physician. When the story begins, he is devastated by the impending execution of the woman he loves, Iulla Fabia Alba, known as Virgo Vestalis Maxima. She is the eldest of Rome's Vestal Virgins and due to her sacred status, she is considered an untouchable woman and must avoid physical relationships with men. Despite these conditions, they fall for each other and Harra respects her vows. However, when a slave witnesses their platonic embrace, things take a grim turn. Considering this as a heinous crime, the enraged emperor decides to execute her cruelly. First, she will be scourged or whipped until no skin is left. Then she will be tied to a post on a hearse cart and taken to an underground enclosed tomb where she will be left to die a slow and agonizing death. A determined Harra is desperate to save her from a brutal death. Will he succeed in this monumental task and rescue his love?

This prologue sets the stage for the novel and it captivated me immediately. If it piques your curiosity, then pick up "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins and start reading. This historical fantasy novel follows the adventures of Harra who is depicted as a master of many trades: traveler, soldier, scholar, priest, magistrate, slave, and physician. He is also compassionate and loving, making him a perfect protagonist. Additionally, Harra possesses the power to see the future. At the age of 22, he was drawn by an unknown force which compelled him to travel towards the east, marking the beginning of his long journey. His travel takes him through many countries, first meeting Lurco, a Germanian traveling merchant, who is a former slave and gladiator. After a mystical encounter with a red-haired beast, he continues further east to the land of silk, Serus, where he stays for several years honing his skills. Eventually, he reaches Rome, becomes a slave to Galen, and meets Alba which finally leads to her grisly fate.

The story is written in first-person narrative, which creates a sense of closeness with the readers. I particularly loved the elegant and simple writing style which was easy to read. The pacing of the story is good, and I didn't feel any lag. Especially, the ending is very fast-paced. The excellent descriptions whisked me to those places and made me feel like I was traveling alongside Harra. It is evident that the author has researched extensively to write this book, which I truly appreciate.

The narrative is a blend of fact and fantasy. I googled a lot while reading the book. I was unaware of the ancient names of various countries like "Seres" referring to China, "Germania" to Germany, and "Hibernia" to Ireland. Also, I was astonished by the fact that Claudius Galen is a real physician. The deadly plague of Rome is also mentioned in the book. It was fascinating to read about the Virgin Vestrals which was new to me. I was intrigued by the discovery of malaria and the idea of preventing it in ancient times, which I hadn't previously known. Also, I learned a great deal about the rulers of ancient Rome, their architecture, and their culture.

The story has a diverse set of characters. Harra is quick-witted and I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Harra and Galen. Claudius Galen is a renowned physician and surgeon, who is avidly dedicated to his research and uses vivisection to analyze the functions of animal bodies. Alba is a beautiful young lady who has fallen in forbidden love, yet remains committed to her vows. Cordus, the centurion close to Alba, has realized the value of life with age and is against killing, believing that life is too short. Lurco's friendship with Harra was enjoyable to read. I found the characterization of Jiang Yi, who taught Harra fighting skills and medicine with a lot of patience, and Divinius, the cook of Galen and a former gladiator, interesting.

Many medical procedures were depicted and as a lover of medical science, I appreciated reading about them. However, I didn't enjoy reading the vivisection scenes; I can't endure the idea of animals being tortured. While this practice has contributed to medical knowledge, I can't accept the cruelty inflicted on animals for human benefit. Additionally, the fight scenes were pretty violent but they didn't bother me. However, sensitive readers might find the vivisection scenes, medical procedures, execution, and fight scenes difficult to handle.

Although I noticed some errors while reading, they didn't deter my enjoyment. I didn't like the vivisection scenes but it is my personal opinion. So, I decided not to reduce stars and my rating for this book would be 5 out of 5 stars. Readers who love history and fantasy books will surely enjoy this one.

******
A Druid's Odyssey
View: on Bookshelves

Thank you!

[Priya Murugesan]

This sounds like an interesting read! Thank you for sharing, Priya! I am curious about the traits of this "mystical read-haired beast". Sounds interesting! I'll have to keep an eye out for this book and will continue to read more reviews, to gauge whether or not to check it out.

Thank you for sharing!

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Ó hEaghra, known as Harra in Rome, is a druid native to Hibernia. He is a skilled wanderer whose travel originates from Hibernia and ultimately stops at Rome where he becomes a slave to Claudius Galen, a prominent physician. When the story begins, he is devastated by the impending execution of the woman he loves, Iulla Fabia Alba, known as Virgo Vestalis Maxima. She is the eldest of Rome's Vestal Virgins and due to her sacred status, she is considered an untouchable woman and must avoid physical relationships with men. Despite these conditions, they fall for each other and Harra respects her vows. However, when a slave witnesses their platonic embrace, things take a grim turn. Considering this as a heinous crime, the enraged emperor decides to execute her cruelly. First, she will be scourged or whipped until no skin is left. Then she will be tied to a post on a hearse cart and taken to an underground enclosed tomb where she will be left to die a slow and agonizing death. A determined Harra is desperate to save her from a brutal death. Will he succeed in this monumental task and rescue his love?

This prologue sets the stage for the novel and it captivated me immediately. If it piques your curiosity, then pick up "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins and start reading. This historical fantasy novel follows the adventures of Harra who is depicted as a master of many trades: traveler, soldier, scholar, priest, magistrate, slave, and physician. He is also compassionate and loving, making him a perfect protagonist. Additionally, Harra possesses the power to see the future. At the age of 22, he was drawn by an unknown force which compelled him to travel towards the east, marking the beginning of his long journey. His travel takes him through many countries, first meeting Lurco, a Germanian traveling merchant, who is a former slave and gladiator. After a mystical encounter with a red-haired beast, he continues further east to the land of silk, Serus, where he stays for several years honing his skills. Eventually, he reaches Rome, becomes a slave to Galen, and meets Alba which finally leads to her grisly fate.

The story is written in first-person narrative, which creates a sense of closeness with the readers. I particularly loved the elegant and simple writing style which was easy to read. The pacing of the story is good, and I didn't feel any lag. Especially, the ending is very fast-paced. The excellent descriptions whisked me to those places and made me feel like I was traveling alongside Harra. It is evident that the author has researched extensively to write this book, which I truly appreciate.

The narrative is a blend of fact and fantasy. I googled a lot while reading the book. I was unaware of the ancient names of various countries like "Seres" referring to China, "Germania" to Germany, and "Hibernia" to Ireland. Also, I was astonished by the fact that Claudius Galen is a real physician. The deadly plague of Rome is also mentioned in the book. It was fascinating to read about the Virgin Vestrals which was new to me. I was intrigued by the discovery of malaria and the idea of preventing it in ancient times, which I hadn't previously known. Also, I learned a great deal about the rulers of ancient Rome, their architecture, and their culture.

The story has a diverse set of characters. Harra is quick-witted and I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Harra and Galen. Claudius Galen is a renowned physician and surgeon, who is avidly dedicated to his research and uses vivisection to analyze the functions of animal bodies. Alba is a beautiful young lady who has fallen in forbidden love, yet remains committed to her vows. Cordus, the centurion close to Alba, has realized the value of life with age and is against killing, believing that life is too short. Lurco's friendship with Harra was enjoyable to read. I found the characterization of Jiang Yi, who taught Harra fighting skills and medicine with a lot of patience, and Divinius, the cook of Galen and a former gladiator, interesting.

Many medical procedures were depicted and as a lover of medical science, I appreciated reading about them. However, I didn't enjoy reading the vivisection scenes; I can't endure the idea of animals being tortured. While this practice has contributed to medical knowledge, I can't accept the cruelty inflicted on animals for human benefit. Additionally, the fight scenes were pretty violent but they didn't bother me. However, sensitive readers might find the vivisection scenes, medical procedures, execution, and fight scenes difficult to handle.

Although I noticed some errors while reading, they didn't deter my enjoyment. I didn't like the vivisection scenes but it is my personal opinion. So, I decided not to reduce stars and my rating for this book would be 5 out of 5 stars. Readers who love history and fantasy books will surely enjoy this one.

******
A Druid's Odyssey
View: on Bookshelves

Thanks, Adrian!

[Terry Kimble]

Wow, this review makes me interested in reading this novel. However, I am repulsed by animal torture. I could stomach it if there were just one incident in the book. More than that, and I'm out. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this illuminating review!

[Gerry Steen]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Ó hEaghra, known as Harra in Rome, is a druid native to Hibernia. He is a skilled wanderer whose travel originates from Hibernia and ultimately stops at Rome where he becomes a slave to Claudius Galen, a prominent physician. When the story begins, he is devastated by the impending execution of the woman he loves, Iulla Fabia Alba, known as Virgo Vestalis Maxima. She is the eldest of Rome's Vestal Virgins and due to her sacred status, she is considered an untouchable woman and must avoid physical relationships with men. Despite these conditions, they fall for each other and Harra respects her vows. However, when a slave witnesses their platonic embrace, things take a grim turn. Considering this as a heinous crime, the enraged emperor decides to execute her cruelly. First, she will be scourged or whipped until no skin is left. Then she will be tied to a post on a hearse cart and taken to an underground enclosed tomb where she will be left to die a slow and agonizing death. A determined Harra is desperate to save her from a brutal death. Will he succeed in this monumental task and rescue his love?

This prologue sets the stage for the novel and it captivated me immediately. If it piques your curiosity, then pick up "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins and start reading. This historical fantasy novel follows the adventures of Harra who is depicted as a master of many trades: traveler, soldier, scholar, priest, magistrate, slave, and physician. He is also compassionate and loving, making him a perfect protagonist. Additionally, Harra possesses the power to see the future. At the age of 22, he was drawn by an unknown force which compelled him to travel towards the east, marking the beginning of his long journey. His travel takes him through many countries, first meeting Lurco, a Germanian traveling merchant, who is a former slave and gladiator. After a mystical encounter with a red-haired beast, he continues further east to the land of silk, Serus, where he stays for several years honing his skills. Eventually, he reaches Rome, becomes a slave to Galen, and meets Alba which finally leads to her grisly fate.

The story is written in first-person narrative, which creates a sense of closeness with the readers. I particularly loved the elegant and simple writing style which was easy to read. The pacing of the story is good, and I didn't feel any lag. Especially, the ending is very fast-paced. The excellent descriptions whisked me to those places and made me feel like I was traveling alongside Harra. It is evident that the author has researched extensively to write this book, which I truly appreciate.

The narrative is a blend of fact and fantasy. I googled a lot while reading the book. I was unaware of the ancient names of various countries like "Seres" referring to China, "Germania" to Germany, and "Hibernia" to Ireland. Also, I was astonished by the fact that Claudius Galen is a real physician. The deadly plague of Rome is also mentioned in the book. It was fascinating to read about the Virgin Vestrals which was new to me. I was intrigued by the discovery of malaria and the idea of preventing it in ancient times, which I hadn't previously known. Also, I learned a great deal about the rulers of ancient Rome, their architecture, and their culture.

The story has a diverse set of characters. Harra is quick-witted and I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Harra and Galen. Claudius Galen is a renowned physician and surgeon, who is avidly dedicated to his research and uses vivisection to analyze the functions of animal bodies. Alba is a beautiful young lady who has fallen in forbidden love, yet remains committed to her vows. Cordus, the centurion close to Alba, has realized the value of life with age and is against killing, believing that life is too short. Lurco's friendship with Harra was enjoyable to read. I found the characterization of Jiang Yi, who taught Harra fighting skills and medicine with a lot of patience, and Divinius, the cook of Galen and a former gladiator, interesting.

Many medical procedures were depicted and as a lover of medical science, I appreciated reading about them. However, I didn't enjoy reading the vivisection scenes; I can't endure the idea of animals being tortured. While this practice has contributed to medical knowledge, I can't accept the cruelty inflicted on animals for human benefit. Additionally, the fight scenes were pretty violent but they didn't bother me. However, sensitive readers might find the vivisection scenes, medical procedures, execution, and fight scenes difficult to handle.

Although I noticed some errors while reading, they didn't deter my enjoyment. I didn't like the vivisection scenes but it is my personal opinion. So, I decided not to reduce stars and my rating for this book would be 5 out of 5 stars. Readers who love history and fantasy books will surely enjoy this one.

******
A Druid's Odyssey
View: on Bookshelves

This is a well-written and detailed review of "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins. There is so much going on in this book: historical fiction, well-developed characters, and a suspenseful and fast-moving plot. I did not know that Hibernia was an old name for Ireland. I enjoy learning trivia like this. Congratulations to Francis Gene Collins for earning a 5-star review from you.

[Priya Murugesan]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Ó hEaghra, known as Harra in Rome, is a druid native to Hibernia. He is a skilled wanderer whose travel originates from Hibernia and ultimately stops at Rome where he becomes a slave to Claudius Galen, a prominent physician. When the story begins, he is devastated by the impending execution of the woman he loves, Iulla Fabia Alba, known as Virgo Vestalis Maxima. She is the eldest of Rome's Vestal Virgins and due to her sacred status, she is considered an untouchable woman and must avoid physical relationships with men. Despite these conditions, they fall for each other and Harra respects her vows. However, when a slave witnesses their platonic embrace, things take a grim turn. Considering this as a heinous crime, the enraged emperor decides to execute her cruelly. First, she will be scourged or whipped until no skin is left. Then she will be tied to a post on a hearse cart and taken to an underground enclosed tomb where she will be left to die a slow and agonizing death. A determined Harra is desperate to save her from a brutal death. Will he succeed in this monumental task and rescue his love?

This prologue sets the stage for the novel and it captivated me immediately. If it piques your curiosity, then pick up "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins and start reading. This historical fantasy novel follows the adventures of Harra who is depicted as a master of many trades: traveler, soldier, scholar, priest, magistrate, slave, and physician. He is also compassionate and loving, making him a perfect protagonist. Additionally, Harra possesses the power to see the future. At the age of 22, he was drawn by an unknown force which compelled him to travel towards the east, marking the beginning of his long journey. His travel takes him through many countries, first meeting Lurco, a Germanian traveling merchant, who is a former slave and gladiator. After a mystical encounter with a red-haired beast, he continues further east to the land of silk, Serus, where he stays for several years honing his skills. Eventually, he reaches Rome, becomes a slave to Galen, and meets Alba which finally leads to her grisly fate.

The story is written in first-person narrative, which creates a sense of closeness with the readers. I particularly loved the elegant and simple writing style which was easy to read. The pacing of the story is good, and I didn't feel any lag. Especially, the ending is very fast-paced. The excellent descriptions whisked me to those places and made me feel like I was traveling alongside Harra. It is evident that the author has researched extensively to write this book, which I truly appreciate.

The narrative is a blend of fact and fantasy. I googled a lot while reading the book. I was unaware of the ancient names of various countries like "Seres" referring to China, "Germania" to Germany, and "Hibernia" to Ireland. Also, I was astonished by the fact that Claudius Galen is a real physician. The deadly plague of Rome is also mentioned in the book. It was fascinating to read about the Virgin Vestrals which was new to me. I was intrigued by the discovery of malaria and the idea of preventing it in ancient times, which I hadn't previously known. Also, I learned a great deal about the rulers of ancient Rome, their architecture, and their culture.

The story has a diverse set of characters. Harra is quick-witted and I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Harra and Galen. Claudius Galen is a renowned physician and surgeon, who is avidly dedicated to his research and uses vivisection to analyze the functions of animal bodies. Alba is a beautiful young lady who has fallen in forbidden love, yet remains committed to her vows. Cordus, the centurion close to Alba, has realized the value of life with age and is against killing, believing that life is too short. Lurco's friendship with Harra was enjoyable to read. I found the characterization of Jiang Yi, who taught Harra fighting skills and medicine with a lot of patience, and Divinius, the cook of Galen and a former gladiator, interesting.

Many medical procedures were depicted and as a lover of medical science, I appreciated reading about them. However, I didn't enjoy reading the vivisection scenes; I can't endure the idea of animals being tortured. While this practice has contributed to medical knowledge, I can't accept the cruelty inflicted on animals for human benefit. Additionally, the fight scenes were pretty violent but they didn't bother me. However, sensitive readers might find the vivisection scenes, medical procedures, execution, and fight scenes difficult to handle.

Although I noticed some errors while reading, they didn't deter my enjoyment. I didn't like the vivisection scenes but it is my personal opinion. So, I decided not to reduce stars and my rating for this book would be 5 out of 5 stars. Readers who love history and fantasy books will surely enjoy this one.

******
A Druid's Odyssey
View: on Bookshelves

This is a well-written and detailed review of "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins. There is so much going on in this book: historical fiction, well-developed characters, and a suspenseful and fast-moving plot. I did not know that Hibernia was an old name for Ireland. I enjoy learning trivia like this. Congratulations to Francis Gene Collins for earning a 5-star review from you.

Thanks a lot, Gerry!

[Sasikala gupta]

Thank you for a very detailed review. I enjoyed reading it, and Harra's and Alba's love story sounds intriguing and history with a touch of supernatural element just right up my alley. If I get a chance, I would love to read this book. 

[Priya Murugesan]

Wow, this review makes me interested in reading this novel. However, I am repulsed by animal torture. I could stomach it if there were just one incident in the book. More than that, and I'm out. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this illuminating review!

Thanks!

[Priya Murugesan]

Thank you for a very detailed review. I enjoyed reading it, and Harra's and Alba's love story sounds intriguing and history with a touch of supernatural element just right up my alley. If I get a chance, I would love to read this book. 

Hope you love it!

[ZCReviews]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Ó hEaghra, known as Harra in Rome, is a druid native to Hibernia. He is a skilled wanderer whose travel originates from Hibernia and ultimately stops at Rome where he becomes a slave to Claudius Galen, a prominent physician. When the story begins, he is devastated by the impending execution of the woman he loves, Iulla Fabia Alba, known as Virgo Vestalis Maxima. She is the eldest of Rome's Vestal Virgins and due to her sacred status, she is considered an untouchable woman and must avoid physical relationships with men. Despite these conditions, they fall for each other and Harra respects her vows. However, when a slave witnesses their platonic embrace, things take a grim turn. Considering this as a heinous crime, the enraged emperor decides to execute her cruelly. First, she will be scourged or whipped until no skin is left. Then she will be tied to a post on a hearse cart and taken to an underground enclosed tomb where she will be left to die a slow and agonizing death. A determined Harra is desperate to save her from a brutal death. Will he succeed in this monumental task and rescue his love?

This prologue sets the stage for the novel and it captivated me immediately. If it piques your curiosity, then pick up "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins and start reading. This historical fantasy novel follows the adventures of Harra who is depicted as a master of many trades: traveler, soldier, scholar, priest, magistrate, slave, and physician. He is also compassionate and loving, making him a perfect protagonist. Additionally, Harra possesses the power to see the future. At the age of 22, he was drawn by an unknown force which compelled him to travel towards the east, marking the beginning of his long journey. His travel takes him through many countries, first meeting Lurco, a Germanian traveling merchant, who is a former slave and gladiator. After a mystical encounter with a red-haired beast, he continues further east to the land of silk, Serus, where he stays for several years honing his skills. Eventually, he reaches Rome, becomes a slave to Galen, and meets Alba which finally leads to her grisly fate.

The story is written in first-person narrative, which creates a sense of closeness with the readers. I particularly loved the elegant and simple writing style which was easy to read. The pacing of the story is good, and I didn't feel any lag. Especially, the ending is very fast-paced. The excellent descriptions whisked me to those places and made me feel like I was traveling alongside Harra. It is evident that the author has researched extensively to write this book, which I truly appreciate.

The narrative is a blend of fact and fantasy. I googled a lot while reading the book. I was unaware of the ancient names of various countries like "Seres" referring to China, "Germania" to Germany, and "Hibernia" to Ireland. Also, I was astonished by the fact that Claudius Galen is a real physician. The deadly plague of Rome is also mentioned in the book. It was fascinating to read about the Virgin Vestrals which was new to me. I was intrigued by the discovery of malaria and the idea of preventing it in ancient times, which I hadn't previously known. Also, I learned a great deal about the rulers of ancient Rome, their architecture, and their culture.

The story has a diverse set of characters. Harra is quick-witted and I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Harra and Galen. Claudius Galen is a renowned physician and surgeon, who is avidly dedicated to his research and uses vivisection to analyze the functions of animal bodies. Alba is a beautiful young lady who has fallen in forbidden love, yet remains committed to her vows. Cordus, the centurion close to Alba, has realized the value of life with age and is against killing, believing that life is too short. Lurco's friendship with Harra was enjoyable to read. I found the characterization of Jiang Yi, who taught Harra fighting skills and medicine with a lot of patience, and Divinius, the cook of Galen and a former gladiator, interesting.

Many medical procedures were depicted and as a lover of medical science, I appreciated reading about them. However, I didn't enjoy reading the vivisection scenes; I can't endure the idea of animals being tortured. While this practice has contributed to medical knowledge, I can't accept the cruelty inflicted on animals for human benefit. Additionally, the fight scenes were pretty violent but they didn't bother me. However, sensitive readers might find the vivisection scenes, medical procedures, execution, and fight scenes difficult to handle.

Although I noticed some errors while reading, they didn't deter my enjoyment. I didn't like the vivisection scenes but it is my personal opinion. So, I decided not to reduce stars and my rating for this book would be 5 out of 5 stars. Readers who love history and fantasy books will surely enjoy this one.

******
A Druid's Odyssey
View: on Bookshelves

You obviously put a lot of effort into this review; it is incredibly comprehensive and gives a great overview of what a reader could expect from the book. I was mildly interested in the story up until the mention of the vivisection and medical procedures. That's definitely not for me; medical gore usually burns into my mind, so I don't like reading about it. 

[Stephen Christopher 1]

Wow, who knew that hugging could be considered a heinous crime! I do enjoy first person narratives, this isn't my preferred genre but I'll add it to my list.

[Priya Murugesan]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Ó hEaghra, known as Harra in Rome, is a druid native to Hibernia. He is a skilled wanderer whose travel originates from Hibernia and ultimately stops at Rome where he becomes a slave to Claudius Galen, a prominent physician. When the story begins, he is devastated by the impending execution of the woman he loves, Iulla Fabia Alba, known as Virgo Vestalis Maxima. She is the eldest of Rome's Vestal Virgins and due to her sacred status, she is considered an untouchable woman and must avoid physical relationships with men. Despite these conditions, they fall for each other and Harra respects her vows. However, when a slave witnesses their platonic embrace, things take a grim turn. Considering this as a heinous crime, the enraged emperor decides to execute her cruelly. First, she will be scourged or whipped until no skin is left. Then she will be tied to a post on a hearse cart and taken to an underground enclosed tomb where she will be left to die a slow and agonizing death. A determined Harra is desperate to save her from a brutal death. Will he succeed in this monumental task and rescue his love?

This prologue sets the stage for the novel and it captivated me immediately. If it piques your curiosity, then pick up "A Druid's Odyssey" by Francis Gene Collins and start reading. This historical fantasy novel follows the adventures of Harra who is depicted as a master of many trades: traveler, soldier, scholar, priest, magistrate, slave, and physician. He is also compassionate and loving, making him a perfect protagonist. Additionally, Harra possesses the power to see the future. At the age of 22, he was drawn by an unknown force which compelled him to travel towards the east, marking the beginning of his long journey. His travel takes him through many countries, first meeting Lurco, a Germanian traveling merchant, who is a former slave and gladiator. After a mystical encounter with a red-haired beast, he continues further east to the land of silk, Serus, where he stays for several years honing his skills. Eventually, he reaches Rome, becomes a slave to Galen, and meets Alba which finally leads to her grisly fate.

The story is written in first-person narrative, which creates a sense of closeness with the readers. I particularly loved the elegant and simple writing style which was easy to read. The pacing of the story is good, and I didn't feel any lag. Especially, the ending is very fast-paced. The excellent descriptions whisked me to those places and made me feel like I was traveling alongside Harra. It is evident that the author has researched extensively to write this book, which I truly appreciate.

The narrative is a blend of fact and fantasy. I googled a lot while reading the book. I was unaware of the ancient names of various countries like "Seres" referring to China, "Germania" to Germany, and "Hibernia" to Ireland. Also, I was astonished by the fact that Claudius Galen is a real physician. The deadly plague of Rome is also mentioned in the book. It was fascinating to read about the Virgin Vestrals which was new to me. I was intrigued by the discovery of malaria and the idea of preventing it in ancient times, which I hadn't previously known. Also, I learned a great deal about the rulers of ancient Rome, their architecture, and their culture.

The story has a diverse set of characters. Harra is quick-witted and I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Harra and Galen. Claudius Galen is a renowned physician and surgeon, who is avidly dedicated to his research and uses vivisection to analyze the functions of animal bodies. Alba is a beautiful young lady who has fallen in forbidden love, yet remains committed to her vows. Cordus, the centurion close to Alba, has realized the value of life with age and is against killing, believing that life is too short. Lurco's friendship with Harra was enjoyable to read. I found the characterization of Jiang Yi, who taught Harra fighting skills and medicine with a lot of patience, and Divinius, the cook of Galen and a former gladiator, interesting.

Many medical procedures were depicted and as a lover of medical science, I appreciated reading about them. However, I didn't enjoy reading the vivisection scenes; I can't endure the idea of animals being tortured. While this practice has contributed to medical knowledge, I can't accept the cruelty inflicted on animals for human benefit. Additionally, the fight scenes were pretty violent but they didn't bother me. However, sensitive readers might find the vivisection scenes, medical procedures, execution, and fight scenes difficult to handle.

Although I noticed some errors while reading, they didn't deter my enjoyment. I didn't like the vivisection scenes but it is my personal opinion. So, I decided not to reduce stars and my rating for this book would be 5 out of 5 stars. Readers who love history and fantasy books will surely enjoy this one.

******
A Druid's Odyssey
View: on Bookshelves

You obviously put a lot of effort into this review; it is incredibly comprehensive and gives a great overview of what a reader could expect from the book. I was mildly interested in the story up until the mention of the vivisection and medical procedures. That's definitely not for me; medical gore usually burns into my mind, so I don't like reading about it. 

Thanks for your appreciation!

[Priya Murugesan]

Wow, who knew that hugging could be considered a heinous crime! I do enjoy first person narratives, this isn't my preferred genre but I'll add it to my list.

Try this! You might like it!

[Iyanuoluwa Ajiferuke]

Hey Priya,

You've done an exceptional job capturing Harra’s journey from Hibernia to Rome and his diverse roles throughout the story, from druid to slave. Your inclusion of historical details, such as the ancient countries, the Vestal Virgins, and Claudius Galen, really heightens my anticipation for reading this book.

I also want to commend you on how well-articulated and engaging this review is. It's truly compelling

[Priya Murugesan]

Hey Priya,

You've done an exceptional job capturing Harra’s journey from Hibernia to Rome and his diverse roles throughout the story, from druid to slave. Your inclusion of historical details, such as the ancient countries, the Vestal Virgins, and Claudius Galen, really heightens my anticipation for reading this book.

I also want to commend you on how well-articulated and engaging this review is. It's truly compelling

Thanks a lot!