Review of Apollo's Raven

[Dickson Bricks]

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

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5 out of 5 stars

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"Apollo’s Raven" by Linnea Tanner is a gripping historical fantasy novel that transports readers to ancient Britannia. The story follows Catrin, a young Celtic princess who possesses mystical powers connected to a raven. Her life takes a dramatic turn when Roman forces arrive, led by Senator Lucius Antonius and his son Marcellus. As tensions rise between the Celts and Romans, Catrin finds herself torn between her duty to her people and her growing feelings for Marcellus, who is supposed to be her enemy.

The novel’s setting is vividly described, bringing to life the lush landscapes of ancient Britannia and the complex world of Celtic tribes. Tanner does an excellent job of blending historical facts with fantasy elements, making the story both educational and entertaining. The magic in the book is intriguing, especially Catrin’s connection with the raven, which adds a layer of mystery to the plot. The looming family curse adds even more tension, as Catrin must find a way to save her kingdom from destruction.

One of the things I loved about this book was how well-developed the characters are. Catrin is a strong and determined protagonist who grows throughout the story. Her internal conflict between love and duty is portrayed realistically, making her easy to empathize with. Marcellus is also a well-rounded character, showing depth beyond just being a Roman soldier. The chemistry between Catrin and Marcellus is palpable, and their relationship adds a romantic tension that keeps the reader engaged.

Though the novel has some dark moments, including battles and betrayals, it also highlights themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. The pacing is well-balanced, with action-packed scenes and quieter moments that allow for character development. I also appreciated the portrayal of women in the story, especially Catrin, who is shown as both a warrior and a leader. The novel doesn’t shy away from showing the strength and importance of female characters, which I found refreshing.

I did not find any errors in the book, which indicates it was excellently edited. The writing is clear and concise, making it easy to follow the plot without any confusion. There was nothing about this book that I didn't like. 

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars because it masterfully combines history, fantasy, and romance into a compelling story. I highly recommend this boom to fans of historical fiction, fantasy, and women. It’s a captivating read.

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Apollo's Raven
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