Review by Bertha Jackson -- Apollo's Raven by Linnea Tanner

[Bertha Jackson]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Apollo's Raven" by Linnea Tanner.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Apollo’s Raven by Linnea Tanner is a historical fantasy that includes Celtic myths, magic, and romance. Rome invades Britannia to determine who should be King of the Cantiaci throne, King Amren or Marrock. Seven years ago, King Amren had disowned his son, Marrock, after he had hurt and left his youngest daughter, Catrin, for dead. Senator Lucius Antonius brings his son, Marcellus. with him to meet with the King to find out why he does not acknowledge Marrock as his heir. Another meeting is scheduled to be held at the Senator’s camp. The King keeps Marcellus as insurance that no harm befalls him, and the Senator keeps the King’s eldest daughter, Vala. The King is afraid that a curse placed by his former Queen, Rhan, when he beheaded her, was about to come true. She had said that a daughter from his new Queen would join with Marrock, and they would behead him, and take over his kingdom. After much betrayal and treachery on both sides, the King and Marcellus find themselves held hostage. To complicate things, Catrin falls in love with Marcellus.

Celtic myths, fantasy, and magic are abundant in this story. Some of the characters can shape-shift into animals, and there are animal sacrifices. The political powers of Rome and Britannia are dishonest and they betray their enemies. Parents are ruthless and will do anything to gain their goals. The love between Catrin and Marcellus is put to the test due to their different cultures and their parents’ battles. Can their love survive? Will evil overcome good? Is it true that the future can only change at an exact time in the present, and the past can never be changed?

I really liked this book because of the political beliefs, which are comparable to this year’s election. As stated in the book, politicians must sometimes deal with monsters for the greater society. Some of our current day presidential debates reflect this as well, as there are many monsters in our society. There really wasn’t anything I disliked about this book. There is some profanity and sexual content however, they are not overwhelming nor the focus of the story. I am interested in reading the next book in the series.

Due to the small amount of profanity and sexual content, I would recommend this book for older teens and adults. Some individuals may be offended, but I believe most won’t be.

This action-packed story flowed smoothly and appears to have been professionally edited. There are a few grammatical errors that don’t distract the reader. I give this book 4 out of 4 stars.

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Apollo's Raven
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[Ellylion]

I do love fantasy novels based on Celtic myths I would definitely read this one! Thanks for a great review!

[Manang Muyang]

I am a fan of the fearless Queen Boudica. I hope to read Catrin's story soon.

[Kelyn]

I read and reviewed this one as well. The magic and fantasy aspects I enjoyed, the political aspects not so much. I enjoyed watching Catrin and Marcellus' relationship grow. I'm hoping that in the next book they find some way to be together. Thanks for the informative review!

[Saint Bruno]

It shows that you enjoyed reading this book. Thanks for your insightful review and recommendation.

[Olabode Joshua]

Yeah, this book is right up there among the best. The dishonest powers makes me detest politicians even more. It's a book I'd surely read for leisure. Awesome review, Bertha Jackson.

[kdstrack]

I love how you tied the politics of the book with this year's elections. Great insights! The author keeps readers intrigued with her knowledge of the Celtic myths and history. This is an amazing series. I enjoyed your review.

[Diana Lowery]

I enjoyed your comment about how the story related to the current election and the "monsters."

[gen_g]

I do enjoy reading about Celtic mythology, and it would be interesting to view how this is linked to politics. Thanks for the review!