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The Skystone

Book 1 in the series:Camulod Chronicles

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"The Skystone" by Jack Whyte is the first book in the Camulod Chronicles series, a historical fiction take on the Arthurian legend. Set in Roman Britain, the novel follows the story of Publius Varrus, a Roman soldier and blacksmith, who becomes intertwined in the events that will shape the future of Britain. The book explores the Roman Empire's decline, the beginning of a new era, and the lineage leading up to King Arthur, all while providing a realistic and detailed depiction of life during that time period.

The writing style of "The Skystone" is described as historical and captivating, with a focus on character development and intricate details of Roman military life. The book weaves together elements of history, adventure, and nation-building, setting the stage for a series that delves into the origins of the Arthurian myths with a grittier and more realistic approach.

Characters:

The characters are a mix of strong lead figures with a rich portrayal of their inner lives, while some secondary characters lack depth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by a first-person perspective, offering a mix of narrative engagement with a more detailed, historical exposition.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative explores the historical and military backdrop of late Roman Britain, focusing on familial ties that may lead to the King Arthur legend.

Setting:

The setting is a richly detailed depiction of collapsing Roman Britain, providing crucial context for the narrative.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, starting slowly but increasingly incorporating action and tension as the story progresses.
My name is Gaius Publius Varrus, and I am probably the last man alive in Britain who can claim to have marched beneath the Eagles of the Roman army of occupation in this country. The others who marche...

Notes:

The Skystone is the first book in the Camulod Chronicles series by Jack Whyte.
It is set in late 4th to early 5th century Britain during the decline of the Roman Empire.
The story begins in 369 AD and ends in 388 AD, over a hundred years before Arthur's time.
The main characters, Publius Varrus and Caius Britannicus, are ancestors of King Arthur.
The book explores the historical roots of the Arthurian legend, without featuring Arthur, Merlin, or Guinevere.
Elements of the legend are presented in a realistic historical context, including the creation of Excalibur from a meteorite.
The narrative is engaging and written in the first-person perspective of Publius Varrus, a Roman soldier turned blacksmith.
The series emphasizes themes of loyalty, honor, and the challenges of building a civilization amidst chaos.
Many readers appreciate the detailed historical research behind the story and its rich depictions of Roman life.
The series also touches on the economic and political forces at play during the crumbling Roman Empire.
Some readers find the book slow to start due to heavy historical detail, but others enjoy its depth and character development.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are instances of violence, including battles and military strategies that may be intense for some readers.

From The Publisher:

This first novel in Jack Whyte's riveting Arthurian series tells how the story of Camelot may have actually come to be.

We all know the story-how Arthur pulled the sword from the stone and how Camelot came to be.

But how did it really happen?

The Roman citizens of Britain faced a deadly choice: leave to live in a corrupt Roman world, or stay amidst the violence of the warring factions of Picts, Celts, and invading Saxons.

For Publius Varrus and Caius Britannicus, there is only one answer. They will stay, try to preserve the best of Roman life, and create a new culture from the wreckage.

In doing so, they will plant the seeds of a legend. For these two men are Arthur's great-grandfathers and their actions will shape a nation...and forge the sword known as Excalibur.

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About the Author:

Jack Whyte is a Scots-born, award-winning Canadian author whose poem, The Faceless One, was featured at the 1991 New York Film Festival. The Camulod Chronicles is his greatest work, a stunning retelling of one of our greatest legends: the making of King Arthur's Britain. He lives in British Columbia, Canada.

 
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