Dreaming the Serpent-Spear

February 19, 2007
Scott concludes her popular Boudica series with a haunting tale of healing and war set in the summer of A.D. 60 in Roman-occupied Britannia, where the native tribes have raised a 5,000-strong war party for a "war of liberation." But their leader, Breaca of the Eceni—also known as Boudica, the Warrior Queen—is still recovering from a savage flogging she received from the Romans, and from her daughter Graine's gang rape by legionaries that she faults herself for not preventing. Breaca laments that she's "lost her taste for war," but agrees to lead the rebellion. When the Roman governor sends two legions to assault the Eceni bastion of Mona, Breaca ambushes and destroys the legion left behind before burning Camulodunum, Rome's capital in Britannia. With the east in rebellion, the Romans abandon the assault on Mona and march east for a decisive showdown that will determine Britannia's future. There's less suspense than might be imagined since history records the outcome of the Boudica's rebellion, but the Boudica legend—as opposed to the historical record—allows Scott enough poetic license to keep readers intrigued to the sanguinary end. Boudica fans will be heartened to know that Scott is considering a prequel.

May 1, 2007
Even knowing in advance the tragic end to Boudicca's struggles against Roman invaders, readers should still enjoy the gradual unfolding of the final entry in Scott's ("Dreaming the Eagle") ambitious historical quartet. As though they're playing an elaborate chess game, the Eceni prepare to sacrifice the citadel of Mona (center of their culture) in a feint to distract the Roman legions. Warrior queen Breaca (also known as Boudicca), ill in heart and body, must summon the strength to lead her people one last time. Having her brother, Valerius, on her side at long last might prove to be the best weapon against such a bitter enemy. While Breaca frequently seems too perfect to be true, many secondary characters come to life in only a few short paragraphs. Scott has a true passion for her heroic subject matter, and her lyric, mystical tone suits the epic nature of the story. Strongly recommended for libraries owning previous volumes in the series.Laurel Bliss, San Diego State Univ. Lib., CA

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