Witches, Druids and King Arthur

Book Description

In this book, Ronald Hutton showcases his wealth of unusual knowl-edge on paganism, myth, and ritual. Hutton is known for having a deep and sympathetic understanding of past and present beliefs that are often dismissed, and a gift for lucidity and wit. Witches, Druids and King Arthur has a unique and accessible flavor; it elegantly and entertainingly covers a wide range of beliefs, myths, and practices and their place in history.

Customer Reviews:

Another great book from an honored scholar.......2007-09-04

This book is another compelling, if challenging entry from honored pagan scholar Ronald Hutton. Professor Hutton has brought us previous scholar tomes including The Triumph of the Moon, a history of modern paganisem in Britain, and the historical survey, The Pagan Religions of the British Isles, and Stations of the Sun, a history of the ritual year in Britain.

As anyone who have read Hutton before will know the Professor's published work aims for the general reading audience, though without doubt an educated one. However, the challenges of reading Hutton are worth it, and it is no less so than in this reviewed work.

The books only flaw, in my opinion, is the fact that this is not a continous work at all, but a collection of essays that the writer feels are related to each other. This is most true, though a couple, essays on ritual nudity and on the pagan elements in the writings of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein, are interesting though they don't seem to fit within the general theme indicated by the title. The rest of the fascinating essays cover: How Myths are Made, Arthur and the Academics, Glastonbury: Alternative Histories, and histories of medieval and modern paganism.

In the end, this is a book not to be missed. The discussion is lively and the information is profound. I heartily recommend this book.

Irrelevant twaddle presented as scholarship........2006-09-02

This volume of Hutton's scholarship on pagan topics appears to be a collection of essays that were written over several years and have been assembled into a book format with little or no thought to common ground. Hutton displays his very pronounced literary centric view of history, anything that wasn't written, or the writing didn't survive, didn't happen. For example, in the chapter on "Paganism in the lost centuries, Hutton goes on and on about some irrelevant Middle Eastern city which may or may not have sheltered pagans among other religions. While that might be of interest to some Middle Eastern medievalist scholars, it has absolutely nothing to do with the history of western paganism. In his "Modest look at Ritual Nudity," Hutton accurately points out that Wicca is very unique in its use of nudity, and astutely understands that Wiccan nudity helps to separate the serious religious seeker from the casual wannabe. However, Hutton goes on and on with more irrelevant twaddle about ancient Greek art and Roman nudity. Overall it displays what Hutton admits to be his "religion," scholarship based on writing as the sacred. It is perhaps a good book for those who share Hutton's "religious" views about the sacredness of the written word, and the corresponding lack value of anything not written. I rate it a 3 because he has some interesting things to say, but seems to lack real understanding of his topic.

Hit and Myth.......2004-01-16

Collections of essays by major historians can be a mixed bag. Ronald Hutton's new collection is one of the better ones. This is a collection of nine essays where Hutton tries to shed light on the murky world of magic and myth. The book begins with an essay on how myths were made, and then follows with two essays on King Arthur and Glastonbury. The next two essays deal with the problem of modern paganism and its connection to ancient paganism. The first deals with ancient paganism and the second deals with its convoluted path to the present day. Then we have a chapter on the existence of ritual nudity, one on Christianity in C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, one on modern druids and a final chapter on Hutton's experience writing his previous book on modern witchcraft.

What is the result of this interesting concoction? Let's start off with some problems. The essay on druidism is somewhat dry and is largely about complicated internal squabbles among modern druids. The opening chapter starts off by pointing out how modern Celtic nationalism is based on myths. We learn about the story (first told by Hugh Trevor-Roper, to whom the book is dedicated) of how the kilt was not the ancestral uniform of the Highlanders but was designed by an English businessman in Scotland in the 1700s who wanted more convenient clothing. Much of the origins of Welsh and Cornish nationalism come from romantic English sympathizers. But the discussion of Irish nationalism is disappointing. Who, after all, is Hutton trying to refute in pointing out that many nationalists have English, Norman and Protestant origins? Everyone in Ireland knows that Wolfe Tone and Parnell were Protestants. It is Unionism, not Republicanism, that defines Irish nationalism as no more than a whining Catholic sectarianism. And Hutton's deflation of the "myth" of Drogheda, based mostly on one contentious recent monograph, ignores the hundreds of thousands who died in the course of Cromwell's supression of the Irish rebellion. Finally there is a certain undue sympathy towards the mystics and magicians he is covering. In his deflation of the remarkable claims about Glastonbury Abbey, that Arthur's bones are buried there and that it is where Joseph of Arimathea came to England, he goes out of his way to suggest that they could conceivably be true. At one point he refers to modern paganism as an "entirely valid religion" that, notwithstanding its claims to the contrary, dates no earlier than the first decades of the twentieth century. That is all very liberal and tolerant, but one wonders what an "invalid religion" would be like.

Having said that however, much of the rest of the book is interesting and useful. To turn back to the opening chapters on myths, not only do we learn of the origins of the quite false statistic that nine million people were killed in the witch trials, we also learn of the limits of oral history. Contrary to what many people have thought, oral traditions become dramatically less accurate after a century or so. Hutton goes on to describe how he tried to use oral traditions to supplement his earlier histories of the English civil war and was maddeningly unsuccessful. Sir Henry Ireton supposedly defends the honor of a daughter he did not have, Oliver Cromwell dies a non-existent violent death, Charles II's fate is confused with his father's, major events go by with some areas completely forgetting them, while others "remember" non-existent romantic trivia. Meanwhile the Cornish, who in the 16th century rebelled against the rise of Protestantism, now remember themselves as Protestant heroes. We also learn the most recent research on King Arthur. The earliest reference to him comes in the early ninth century. In the seventies there was a surge of archaeological research which supposedly proved Arthur's existence. Hutton shows that it proved nothing of the sort, but is cautious about the idea that Arthur never existed. We also learn how Tolkein's and Lewis' fantasies deviate from Christianity. In the two chapters on late paganism we learn about the traditions of late paganism and how they were transferred to the modern day. There is much talk about neoplatonism and the mysterious Sabians and the Arabian city of Harran, but Hutton is clear in showing that there was no direct continuous tradition from either source. When some of this neoplatonism surfaced in the twelfth and fifteenth centuries, they were mostly used by intellectuals who wished to use classical insights to strengthen Christianity. Hutton reminds us that the old distinction between religion (supplication to a God) and magic (invoking divine power for one's own ends) is still possible and still alive. Although modern pagans use ideas from neoplatonic and Egyptian magic, Hutton notes the contrast between modern optimism and late classical pessimism, the abstinence of the past with the sexuality of today, as well as the modern Pagan appeal to the people and the strictly minority and mysterious nature of the late paganism they invoke. There are many strange areas of the past that have been ignored by historians and are now dangerously infested with cranks. Ronald Hutton is a fine guide to these obscure areas.

bloody brilliant as ever.......2004-01-08

This is another excellent book from Ronald Hutton. On first reading the chief delight for me is Prof. Hutton's marvellously wry and gentle style, with its keen eye for absurdities and inconsistencies in documents and the historical record, but always extending a delicious good grace to those whom he treats. Every essay in here is fascinating, moving nimbly between literary reception of texts, anthropology, historiography and sociology.
Its pages are rich with insisght and the fruits of learning, which makes for interesting reading in itself, but the pleasure is doubled by Hutton's wonderfully present and human yet always couteous prose style. Very highly recommended indeed.

Still something new to say.......2003-12-16

Ronald Hutton has already written so extensively on the subjects covered in ths book that you wouldn't think he'd have anything else to say about them, but he still manages to come up with fresh and interesting information. The first essay in the book 'How Myths are Made' is particularly fascinating as he shows the astonishing way that myths can distort reality. You may be surprised to learn from this book for instance, that both the Scottish and Welsh national costumes were invented by English people. Even more surprising is the history of Irish nationalism, I didn't know until I read this book that the Irish revolt of the 1640s was led by the Fitzgerald family, who were of Norman descent, or that the massacre of Drogheda wasn't really much of a massacre, no women or children were killed. The 19th century rebels against Irish rule, Wolfe Tone, Parnell etc were all Protestants. Connaught, the most Catholic and Gaelic province of Ireland, was also the most amenable to English rule. The other essays in the book are also filled with interesting information. You can read about the development of the myth of King Arthur, for whose existence the evidence is very scanty, but never mind, it's a good story anyway. If you've read Mr. Hutton's previous book 'The Pagan Religions of the Ancient British Isles' you won't be surprised to learn that there is no evidence for pre-Saxon religious activity in Glastonbury, though I still treasure an irrational hope that the Holy Thorn was really planted by Joseph of Arimathea, and that the Holy Grail is still hanging around there somewhere. Other essays cover the ancient origins of modern Paganism, Witchcraft, Druidry, and ritual nmudity among other things. Occasionaly I found what I was reading a bit over my head, but mostly it is a fascinating book, he even managed to make those old bores Tolkein and C.S. Lewis seem quite interesting in the esaay I thought I would enjoy least 'The Inklings and the Gods' (i've always found 'Lord ot the Rings' one of the world's most boring books)If you enjoyed Mr. Huton's previous books you will certainly enjoy this one.

The Celtic Druids' Year: Seasonal Cycles of the Ancient Celts

Average customer rating:

Beware Chapters 8 & 9!
Interesting
My First Dip into the Celtic Society
Good for the just-past-beginner student
A very useful text

The Celtic Druids' Year: Seasonal Cycles of the Ancient Celts
John Robert King
Manufacturer: Blandford Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0713724617

Customer Reviews:

Beware Chapters 8 & 9!.......2007-07-24

Although I generally liked this book, I was disheartened by chapter 8; "The Eight Stations of the Year." This is a Wiccan concept, unfamiliar to the Celtic/Druidic mindset. There is no evidence that the Druids celebrated the Vernal or Autumnal equinoxes or the Winter solstice.
I was similarly disheartened by chapter 9; "The 13 Months of the Year," which relies on Rob't Graves' good old "Celtic Tree Calendar," which, more recently, has been found to be pure claptrap. If you're interested in a Celtic calendar, look into the Coligny calendar.
Not bad overall, but these two later chapters belong in the garbage.

Interesting.......2003-02-08

This work by Mr. King is a very interesting read, though difficult to get started into. It is full of factual information, scholarly discoveries and ideas that make even experienced followers of the path sit back and think. Despite the utility and genius of the book, there are a few things that I didn't like about it.

First, the title is deceiving. A little less than half of the book is actually about the cycles of the Celtic year, and even less about the holidays and rituals. The entirety of the first 4 5 chapters is general background information on the Celts and the Druids. While this information is useful, and accurate, it is also replicated in 100 other books.

Second, Mr. King makes an interesting case that the Druids were the remnant of a long-forgotten Pythagorean cult, at best a dubious proposition and a laughable one at worst. Though his points are interesting, it is all conjecture with very little solid information to back it up.

Lastly, Mr. King doesn't delve deeply enough into the various subjects he explores. Though the information is good as a primer, it is hardly an advanced book on the subject of the Celts and the Druids. Most of the information can be found in any other book.

I gave the book 4 stars because Mr. King makes some points that are glossed over, skipped or ignored by other writers. While its true that he does this to try to prove his pet theories correct, the information is made no less valid. The few unique things in this book turn out to be rare gems in the sand.

My First Dip into the Celtic Society.......2000-05-11

This is my first reading of anything Celtic and I absolutely loved the book. My intention when I purchased the book was to find out about ancient agricultural societies and how they viewed the world, how they functioned as a whole, and what beliefs they held. Interestingly enough, my interest changed to actually enjoying the history behind the Druids and the society in which they were held in such high regard.

I enjoyed the book for several other reasons as well: King made a valid argument as to the location on the calendar as to where the Celtic year would begin and end. It is logical, to me at least, that for an agricultural society they would celebrate in the summer when food was plentiful and the days long; not in the winter when they were possibly starving and living off of the meager rations that they could eat from the salting of meat.

One of the other reasons that I liked this book so much was because it dealt with so much of the Celtic society in such a relatively short novel. King touches on religion, roman influence, cultural oversights by previous historians, and of course the calendar and their alphabet (which takes up a large portion of the later half of the novel for obvious reasons).

As a reviewer I would recommend this book to anyone interested in Celtic philosophy and Society who haven't read any or much Celtic history as of yet. What I got out of this book was that I wanted to read more about the society; to find out more about the Druids, the Bards (or Ovates) and their incredible---and sometimes magical---lives. Great read.

Good for the just-past-beginner student.......2000-04-24

I picked this book up without knowing anything about it in advance. I was interested in the author's idea of what a "druid year" would be. That is reserved for the end of the book. The beginning half is a well-researched look at what functions druids performed in their society, and a general over-view of pre-Christian Celtic society. This half is perfect for the student who past asking what a druid is and does, but wants a firmer historical context on which to base further study. In particular, Pliny's popular "white-robe and golden sickle" description is questioned, and for the general student's purposes, disproved.

In the second half of the book the author presents his version of the Celtic Druid Year. King's most notable (and controversial) idea is that New Year Celebrations were held at mid-summer, contrary to the popular belief that New Year arrived at Samhain. This idea, however, is not unique to King. Ronald Hutton has also argued against the possibility that Samhain was the Celtic New Year. For each of the 8 feast days, King describes what the situation would have been for the community the Druid(s) "worked" for -- what foods would be available and concerns regarding weather conditions as manifestations of their gods' favour/ disfavour. This description added to his discussion of the feast days helps present to the reader the practical rather than purely spiritual or magical functions of the celebrations.

Overall, this is a well researched and honest book. However, the author's insistence that the druids were the decedents or an off-shoot of the Pythagorian Cult is the reason it did not earn 4 or 5 stars. While King's research shows similarities between the two groups, it is this reader's opinion that King is too eager to find a "legitimate" source for druidry, akin to those who wish to place the druids as the decedents of the citizens of Atlantis or one of the lost tribes of Israel.

A very useful text.......2000-04-05

John King was one of the authors that introduced me to the subject of ancient Celtic history. This book is a bit cumbersome for a complete novice, but provides a very nice start for jumping beyond simple interest in the druids to actually understanding their historical context. King makes good use of quotes and footnotes and provides ample material for further reading. The only downside here is that the book does not really revolve around the title -- half of the book is explaining about ancient Celtic society in general and about the druids in general. This is fine if this is what you are looking for, but actual information about ancient Celtic astrology/astronomy is rather scarce here, though there is a detailed discussion of the calendar, the agricultural year, and of mathematics. There are some rather large jumps made in the latter section where the (perhaps mythological) connections between the druids and Pythagoras are emphasized. Nonetheless, I found this an excellent book that has been well-researched and yet avoids being presented in an overcomplicated or overacademic way; this text is very suitable for the beginning student of the subject.

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Spinrad tries historical fiction
the DRUID King
A interesting read, a bit korney
A Sweeping Historical Novel
An historical epic.

The Druid King
Norman Spinrad
Manufacturer: Vintage
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0375724966
Release Date: 2004-08-10

Book Description

A major triumph of historical fiction, The Druid King, is a masterly retelling of the life of the legendary general Vercingetorix and his brilliant crusade against the Roman invasion of Gaul.Vercingetorix was both a man of myth and a real historical figure—he managed, where others had failed, to unite the tribes of Gaul and lead them against the might of the entire Roman empire.

After watching his father’s harrowing death, young Vercingetorix retreats to the forest where he learns the ways of the druids. Soon he must return to civilization to reclaim his birthright and his father’s honor, but the city of his birth has changed. Now, he must confront the greatest military power the world has even known--the Roman legions of Julius Ceasar. This is the story of Vercingetorix, Druid King of Gaul.

Customer Reviews:

Spinrad tries historical fiction.......2006-03-03

While not exactly famous, Norman Spinrad is well-known in the world of science fiction as a reliable veteran who has been producing stories for several decades. With The Druid King, he departs from that genre to tell a historical tale of Gaul during the last days of the Roman Republic.

The protagonist in The Druid King is Vercingetorix, a young man who is destined to become the King of Gaul. At the beginning of the story, however, he is merely the teenaged son of a Gallic chieftain. His father has visions of uniting the tribes to oppose Rome, but Vercingetorix's uncle ends that with murder. Vercingetorix is forced to flee and takes refuge with the Druids.

Meanwhile, Julius Caesar has his own ambitions, and the conquest of Gaul is a mere stepping stone for him. A master manipulator, he is able to defeat his foes as much with wiles as with force. Briefly, he makes Vercingetorix his protégé, but soon enough they are foes, leading opposing sides. Unfortunately for Caesar, Vercingetorix has picked up enough from his former mentor to become a difficult adversary.

This is a story of Rome vs. Gaul, but not just in terms of peoples but also ways of life. Much is made of the different approaches to battle: the Gauls believe in honor in battle, the Romans are merely concerned with victory. This difference in philosophy will prove to be a major problem for Vercingetorix as he realizes the Roman approach is necessary to overcome his foes, but his followers are less willing to break with tradition.

Spinrad is a good writer, but the edginess that makes him excellent in his science fiction is missing here. As a result, this is merely another good historical novel. Also, Spinrad's story suffers in comparison to Colleen McCullough's outstanding Roman history series (which also describes the Caesar vs. Vercingetorix battles). I can only give this book four stars as a result: this is not Spinrad's best work (he should probably stick with science fiction), but it is a good, entertaining read.

the DRUID King.......2005-10-23

The story was good. The only way that I can read history.
Unfortunately, my wish for more druidism was not fulfilled. And what the heck is a leggionare??

A interesting read, a bit korney.......2005-10-14

It is good to see the story of Caesar's wars with the continental celts with some attention payed to the celtic side of the story. Did find it at times somewhat juvenile. For example; when a character rides a horse in this story they constanlty make it rear up. This annoys any real horseman or student of iron age cavalry. This story is supposed to be about iron age celtic warriors on sturdy gaulish ponies, not a girl's fairy tale of knights on white stallions. And Vercingetorix is given as a name recieved from birth rather than a title he had been bestowed with(Ver means high,Cinget means warrior, Rix means king.Ver-cinget-rix high warrior king) he would have been given a simple name as a child and called Vercingetorix only after he took command of the Gaulish army. And Vercingetorix is portrayed very young even at the climax. I find the notion of a boyish Vercingetorix unable to grow a respectable celtic mustache leading an army implausible. I would recommend it to young readers interested in the story of gaul, but not to the more sophisticated enthusiast.

A Sweeping Historical Novel.......2005-01-22

By 60 BC the might of the Roman legions had conquered most of the known world and to be fair had improved the lot of most of the defeated nations. Those who continued to oppose Rome were ruthlessly crushed.
Now Julius Caesar has turned his attention to the invasion of Gaul. He is seeking a victory that will give him the power to cast out the old guard and become Emperor of Rome the greatest city in the world. But a formidable foes stands against him, the Druid King, Vercingetorix.

The conflict that is about to happen will start to shape the future history of Northern Europe. The Gauls know that they must fight to the bitter end or face the destruction of everything they believe in. But can the tribes be brought together as one unit to fight this relentless enemy. More importantly can they gain a victory and save themselves from oblivion.

This books relates one of the most brutal military campaigns of all time.

An historical epic........2004-07-04

Like the fictional Hagar the Horrible and the real, post 911 e-mailer/apologiser Jo - now would be a good day to bury some bad news - Moore, Norman Spinrad sucks on a lemon and charges his way through the conflict between the realpolitik of an expanding Roman Empire and Gallic mysticism.

Book Description

This book provides a fascinating and unique history of the Britons from the late Iron Age to the late Middle Ages. It draws on both archaeological and written evidence to trace the development of the distinct culture of the Britons that survived nearly four centuries of Roman rule and has been revived and celebrated by generations ever since.The book:- describes the life and culture of the Britons before, during and after Roman rule- covers the revival of Iron Age practices within a Christian context, typified by the work of Saint Patrick- examines the figures of King Arthur and Merlin and the evolution of a powerful national mythology- proposes a new theory on the Anglo-Saxon settlement of Britain and the establishment of separate Brittonic kingdoms- gives an account of the Viking and Norman invasions and their effect on the Britons- reveals the origins of The Brittonic language and its segmentation into Breton, Cornish and WelshThe book also discusses the revivals of interest in British culture and myth over the centuries, from Renaissance antiquarians to modern day Druids.

Customer Reviews:

The Britons An informative book.......2006-11-09

The book came quickly and was as represented. The book was in good shape and is being much enjoyed for information and reference

Excellent!.......2006-08-07

This is a complete history of the Britons, which I have been looking for a long time.

Readily accessible to the nonprofessional reader.......2004-02-08

Do you have ancestry from Brittany, Wales, Scotland or England? You might like this informative, well-documented, comfortably-paced book. Even if you are well-versed in the history of these lands, this book gives many insights into how people lived and into the power struggles among early kingdoms (Cornwall, Strathclyde, Dyfed, Wessex, Northumbria ...you name it.) Having ancestry from SW-Scotland, for example, I was not dissappointed in the amount of material devoted to the Strathclyde Britons, including some facts I had not known. Who are the Britons? This book helps you understand what that question means historically, and in present-day context. A first-rate book, I suggest it be read by anyone who has an interest, including those involved in Celtic studies of all kinds.

A fascinating and scholarly historical text.......2003-07-20

The Britons by Christopher A. Snyder (Associate Professor of European history and Chair of the department of History and Politics, Marymount University, Arlington, Virginia) is a fascinating and scholarly historical text about the culture of the Britons, spanning the late Iron Age down to the late Middle Ages. From the influence of Roman rule, to the impact of Christianity, the legend of King Arthur, a sober account of Viking and Norman invasions, and so much more, The Britons is an informed and informative study which is very highly recommended for personal reading lists and academic History collections.

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The Illumination of Ireland
Not as good as her other work
I Wish I Could Be a Druid Priestess
Could NOT put it down!

Daughter of Ireland
Juilene Osborne-McKnight
Manufacturer: Forge Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 076530127X

Book Description

I am the wind which breathes on the water.
I am the swell of the sea.
I am the light of the sun.
I am the point of the battle spear.
I am the God who gives fires to the mind.
Who announces the ages of the moon?
Who speaks to the setting of the sun?
I, only I.

Aislinn ni Sorar, druid priestess of ancient Ireland, is a visionary. Raised according to the ancient ways and seeking to use her gifts to keep the old magic strong, she has the power to part the mists of time and see events that might shape a nation.

But Aislinn’s own past is shrouded in mystery, and her quest to discover that past will bring her pain, as well as true love, and will set in motion a chain of events that will alter both her own future and that of her beloved Ireland.

For there is a new spirit upon the land whose presence heralds a rendering--and a remaking--of this world. His way had been foretold long ago and threatens to change everything. And Aislinn is at the heart of that change.

Will she give up everything that she loves to help her people find the true God, or will she turn to the dark forces that threaten to keep the old ways at any cost?

Daughter of Ireland continues Juilene Osborne-McKnight's exploration of Irish history, combining fine historical research with skillful storytelling. Her focus this time is none other than Cormac mac Art, ancient and venerated King of Ireland, and the path the Irish people follow to find the one true God. Osborne-McKnight has crafted an engaging young heroine who chronicles both Celtic mythology and early pagan/Christian theology through her travels, and re-creates a world whose conflicts over power, religion, and law are as immediate and far-reaching as those same conflicts in our own time.

Customer Reviews:

The Illumination of Ireland.......2007-03-17

The female version of the legacy of St. Patrick who drove the snakes out of Ireland ... and converted pagan celts into Christians. The spirit of the one true God heralds itself on the Emerald Isle and one woman's role in lighting the way.

Not as good as her other work.......2007-01-02

Although this is a decent book, I was disappointed after reading Osborne-McKnight's I Am Of Irelaunde and Bright Sword of Ireland. The characters in her other books are less stereotyped, and I loved her work with the stories of the Hound of Ulster and St. Patrick. This book fits more into the romance category, while the others had real depth and innovation.

I Wish I Could Be a Druid Priestess.......2003-04-21

While searching through the romance novel section at the Book Store, I came across a book that made me say, "Oooh...". Daughter of Ireland first caught my attention because of the pretty cover (Yes, I'm one of those people who firmly disagrees with the statement, "You can't judge a book by its cover.") Then, I noticed the title had the word "Ireland" in it, which prompted me to read the back cover of the book. After doing so, I just had to buy it. However, was it all I was hoping it to be? Not quite.
Set in about 250 AD, when Cormac Mac Art ruled as high king of Ireland and the country was protected the Fianna, the fierce and legendary army of Ireland led by Fionn Mac Cumhail, the plot of the story is of the intertwining fates of Aislinn ni Sorar and Eoghan Mac Aiden and the forces of darkness that could tear them apart. Aislinn is a druid priestess, loved and well respected throughout all of Eire; Eoghan is a warrior-poet of the Ard-ri (high king) and also a member of the Fianna. Eoghan's father killed Aislinn's father in a battle game when she was but five years old. Her mother took a death-fast, meaning that she was entombed alive with her dead husband and eventually starved to death. However, before she took her death-fast, she sent for Eoghan, who was seventeen at the time, and told him to take Aislinn to the druid Aodhfin the Wise to keep her safe from Banbh, a dark druid who pledged his allegiance to Morigu, the goddess of battle, death, and war. Aodhfin trained Aislinn in the druii ways, then sent her on a journey with only a cryptic chant to guide her: "From the place of darkness will come a child to light your journey. To the place of fire will come a man bearing fire for the body and the mind. Between darkness and light, you are the still point." Aislinn must figure out the meaning behind Aodhfin's riddle in order to become completely safe from the darkness and have true happiness.
Confusing? Maybe a little. The book is wonderful until about three-fourths of the way through, when the story begins to jump ahead six months to five years at a time. To me, it appears as though Juilene Osbourne-McKnight tired of writing and just wanted to end the book quickly.
However, Osborne-McKnight didn't just make up characters and a story off the top of her head. The story is remarkably believable, for it is very evident she did her research on ancient Ireland before writing this book. She used real people as her characters and real events to shape the plot of the book. Her descriptions of druii rituals and observations of their holidays are absolutely splendid. She took the time to conquer the tideous tasks of translating old Gaelic words and phrases into English and finding the pronunciation of nearly every name that appeared in the book. There is even a glossary at the end of the book for reference, as well as the bibliography of books she used for research.
The character descriptions are excellent, right down to the tiniest detail. Osborne-McKnight made it seem as though I had jumped into one of the character's heads; I could almost feel what they were thinking. The physical descriptions were wonderful, too. The way they wore their hair, the druii robes and clothing, the colors each clan wore...positively wonderful. It really made me wish I had been alive at that period in history, for I know I would have loved it.
Do you like historical romance novels? Are you interested in the Old ways and the religion of the Others? Are you enthralled by the constant battle between good and evil, light and dark? If so, then you definitely need to read this book.

Could NOT put it down!.......2003-04-08

Very vivid plot and description, I FELT as if I was there! For anyone who loves magick, Ireland, Druids, etc you will LOVE this book! I can't wait to find more from the author!

What Life Was Like: Among Druids and High Kings : Celtic Ireland Ad 400-1200 (What Life Was Like)

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Fairly Dull, But Lovely Pictures
Buy this!
Great historical information on Ireland

What Life Was Like: Among Druids and High Kings : Celtic Ireland Ad 400-1200 (What Life Was Like)

Manufacturer: Time-Life Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0783554559

Customer Reviews:

Fairly Dull, But Lovely Pictures.......2002-03-10

This volume is one of a series of Time-Life books about how people lived during different times and places in history. As one would expect from the publishers, "What Life Was Like" is beautifully illustrated, featuring breathtaking photographs of Ireland.

What the book lacks is an exciting, sustained narrative. Although the text touches upon the interesting lives of St. Patrick, St. Columba and King Brian Boru, it lacks the crisp storytelling of books like Reston's "The Last Apocalypse" or Howarth's "1066." And considering that "What Life Was Like" covers 800 years of Irish history, it weighs in it a very superficial 130 pages--most of which are taken up with pictures! (It does, however, include a useful pronunciation guide and a helpful summary of the origins of various Irish surnames.)

I liked "What Life Was Like" well enough to buy a few other volumes in the series, but I view this one as "history lite," an agreeable diversion for a rainy Sunday afternoon but not good enough to keep a reader going late into the night.

Buy this!.......2001-06-11

Any what life was like book is worth your time! This is the best type of history book I ever picked up. Time Life takes you into the lives of common folk and lets you see how History is meant to be written.

Great historical information on Ireland.......2000-04-16

This book, like the others in the series, has a lot of good pictures as well as descriptive text. It really gives you a good sense of what it was like to live at certain times in Ireland. The information on Saint Patrick is brief, but interesting. I have some of the others in the series and this is almost as good; the only reason I give it 4 stars instead of 5 is because I felt the depth of the material was not as great.

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A long trip back in history
A Star is Born!
Absorbing, noteworthy, imaginative
The Bard of Bethlehem

The Bard of Bethlehem
David James Trapp
Manufacturer: PublishAmerica
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1424133130
Release Date: 2006-10-16

Book Description

It is 5 B.C., a year of turmoil. A brilliant new star shines in the heavens, glorious, stationary and mysterious. And Caesar Augustus now decrees that the Empire be taxed. Terentius and Bridicia are Celts living in Tarsus in Cilicia. Terentius is a gifted harpist who plays songs to the new star. Bridicia is a redheaded fish peddler. They discover love, but their joy is quickly threatened by a Druid's curse and by a governor's cunning. The Celts must flee, but these dangers relentlessly pursue them. The flight of the Celts takes them to Jerusalem in Judea. Yet King Herod's kingdom offers no refuge; rather, it is mired in bloody politics. With just their wits and his music the Celts seem doomed, but salvation can come in amazing ways. The Bard of Bethlehem is a novel of history, intrigue and discovery that will keep you breathless to the last paragraph.

Customer Reviews:

A long trip back in history.......2007-03-10

Trapp's novel takes you back to 5 B.C. where the Celts, Jews, and Greeks all live under Roman rule by Julius Caesar. This is a time of political turmoil, where Maximus, the Governor of Cilicia, is asked to step down because he hasn't been performing his duties, due to what is called "the black melancholy." Maximus lost his wife and could be in the throes of depression, because after being relieved of his governing duties he attempts suicide.

The Druids, even in placid times, had to hide their practices, but one Druid stands out, Corvus, who states that the Britons trained him although he now lives in Tarsus. Corvus buys and sells various items: linen, cotton, and herbs. He is wise in the way of Celts, but is an angry, vengeful man who cursed a young Celtic woman who would not sleep with him during the feast of Samhain, the Celtic New Year. Even though Caesar executed Druids and outlawed their beliefs, Corvus and others still practice the old ways.

The young cursed beauty, Bridicia, who is a fish peddler, meets the harpist Terentius. He immediately falls in love with her. She refuses his offer of marriage since she cannot bear children. Terentius, who, though Celtic, maneuvers through the Jewish, Greek and predominately Roman parts of town without impunity, loves her and doesn't care that she is barren.

The storyline is woven tightly around political scandals, Caesar's mandatory census and taxation of all males, while Bridicia and Terentius's relationship blooms along with a star that is seen in the heavens. The star amazes everyone of all races and religions, "What could it mean as it fails to weaken or disappear but only increases in size and strength?"

The book keeps you spell-bound with the interweaving of numerous plot lines. A great historical novel with the flair of fiction and nonfiction combined. Highly recommended, but Trapp isn't true to the language of the period and uses some words that weren't in existence until the Middle Ages.

Armchair Interviews says: The Bard of Bethlehem gives new meaning to old legends and the co-habitation of many cultures in the Holy Land.

A Star is Born!.......2007-01-13

Welcome to the twenty-second year of the reign of Caesar Augustus or 5 B.C.! The Roman world is at the height of its power and corruption at a time when men of all nationalities hope for a better world. The Romans may control half the world but numerous plots and intrigues threaten their power; Greeks, Celts, and Jews proudly cling to their cultural roots while they serve as slaves and servants to their domineering overlords.

Terentius and Bridicia are the main characters, a bard and fish peddler, whose love endures through multiple perils in this riveting, intriguing novel. "Someone betrayed me," becomes the catch-all phrase for them as well as for the a Druid who has set a debilitating curse on Bridicia; for the young Jewish musician threatened because of jealousy and prejudice; and for the governor who has reached the pinnacle of success but whose every action now seems to create more and more enemies.

In the midst of it all, a wondrous star appears that is brighter than all other stars and which carries a mystical aura touching every observer and laying bare the obvious and hidden motives behind every actor and actress. "What could it mean as it fails to weaken or disappear but only increases in size and strength?"

Join Terentius and Bridicia as they elude the looming disasters threatening them in Tarsus in Cilicia and then as they travel to the land below where the star shines and they meet the characters whose destiny will be forever connected to that initial heavenly appearance!

David James Trapp's writing has evolved gracefully and powerfully since his last novel, Dog Days in Bedlam. The Bard of Bethlehem is a novel you will love and remember forever as the work of a master storyteller capable of fully and accurately portraying the known and unknown players of ancient sacred and secular history!!! Wonderful!!!!

Reviewed by Viviane Crystal on January 12, 2007

Absorbing, noteworthy, imaginative.......2006-12-24

Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (12/06)

This remarkable story begins in the city of Tarsus in a period of political chaos. It is the story of two young Celts. The book is rich in Celtic background, customs, and Druid folklore. Young Terentius, a harpist, and Bridicia, his bride, are threatened by a Druid's curse and are caught in a web of political corruption. Trapp exhibits great scope and depth in his understanding of the political upheaval in the year 5 B.C.

David James Trapp is a master story teller. He draws the reader back in time, two thousand years, to a time when the Celts, Jews, Romans, and Greeks, were all deeply affected by the appearance of a mysterious new star.

Terentius played music to the star. "...the melody he created was fantastic, complex, impossible to describe...Tenentius always kept is eyes on the mystery star. Such a brilliant sign! He knew beyond any doubt now that all those Druids were wrong to fear this star."

Tenentius, Bridicia, and their Egyptian slave girl fled Tarsus hoping to find safety in Judea. They were pursued by Corvus, a self proclaimed Druid leader seeking revenge.

David James Trapp has the uncanny ability to make you feel you are walking along side his characters. I felt the anguish of Terentius after his release from custody. "Every step was hard. His limbs ached from the bruises, and breathing was difficult...sharp pains pounded through his skull...with every step he scanned the streets looking for his beloved Bridicia."

This is fast paced historical fiction at its best. David has the inherent ability to keep the reader involved in an intricate plot with unexpected twists, and attention-grabbing sub plots. "The Bard of Bethlehem" is an excellent read, noteworthy, and absorbing.

The Bard of Bethlehem.......2006-12-11

It is 5 BC. Terentius is a Celt living in Tarsus in Cilicia. A bard at heart, yet lacking the poetic talent to be so named, Terentius made his living as a musician. His life was rather uncomplicated, quiet, and lonely. He made beautiful music on his harp. Sometimes people listened and even gave him a few coins for his efforts.

Destiny it would seem had other plans for Terentius. A Jew by the name of Matthias came to the musician one day asking for lute lessons. Terentius agreed to do so as he secretly hoped that the man would teach him the psalms, beautiful and powerful works.

Another important chance meeting was also in store for Terentius. A Celtic woman by the name of Bridicia. Bridicia was a fish peddler in Tarsus. Soon, she was also mate to Terentius.

Unfortunately, this joy was not meant to last. Terentius soon found himself on the wrong side of a powerful Druid Corvus. Corvus had cursed Bridicia to be barren when she refused his affections. This situation only got worse when Corvus murdered Matthias, thinking that his victim is Terentius.

The Bard of Bethlehem is a fresh look at the political and cultural environment in the days just before the birth of Christ. The interactions are quite true to life without any sort of sugar coating or modifications to appease modern political correctness. Well written.

The Trials of Arthur: The Life and Times of a Modern-day King

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The Trials of Arthur: The Life and Times of a Modern-day King
Arthur Pendragon
Manufacturer: Element Books Ltd.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0007121148

Book Description

This book is an alternative armchair adventure that chronicles the exploits of one of the most outrageous men of our time--a nature lover, a profane mystic, who parties with his druidical knights, the Warband, while preaching of personal freedom from atop a motorcycle.

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Daughter of Evil (N/A, N/A)

Manufacturer: Lancer Books, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Druidism | Earth-Based Religions | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
ASIN: B000BZDCHM

Product Description

A story about King Artur and the mad magician Merlin and the rites of the ancient Druids.

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Lady of Avalon (Mists)
Marion Zimmer Bradley
Manufacturer: Recorded Books LLC
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette

Druidism | Earth-Based Religions | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Product Description

12 cassette set. Best-selling author Marion Zimmer Bradley skillfully blends enchanting romance, supernatural ritual, and daring exploits in this eagerly-awaited prelude to the blockbuster fantasy series, The Mists of Avalon (RB# 93310, 93345, 93413, 93434). Foreshadowing the mystical birth of King Arthur, Lady of Avalon paints a lush portrait of the turbulence and grandeur of ancient Britain while Rome ruled the Isles. Throughout Britannia, Roman soldiers are destroying those who follow the Druids time-honored religion. Hoping to save a remnant of the faith, High Priestess Lady Caillean retreats with her band of holy followers to the mist-enshrouded island of Avalon. There she forges a bond with the Sacred King to serve the Great Goddess and to steer Britannias political forces. As the decades turn into centuries, the High Priestess and her inspired successors work their magic to shape the fortunes of humankindbut even their powerful sorcery cannot control the human heart. Each earthy priestess of Avalon steps colorfully from the pages with Marion Zimmer Bradleys dynamic plotting and Davina Porters dramatic narration.

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