The Dark Mirror
Book One of The Bridei Chronicles
Juliet Marriler
Pan Macmillan
Paperback, R125
Reviewed by Ian Jamieson, 25 May 2005
In the mid 6th century, the Pictish kingdom has been split asunder, the
ancient traditions and Gods broken by the new Christian faith, and by attacks
by the powerful Gaels.
In the home of the powerful druid, Broichan, a young man is trained in the
ancient ways, in war, and in kingdomship. For he is Bridei, best hope and
candidate as the future king, who will hopefully once again unite the torn
land. But there are other forces who see things differently, who have their
own plans, and who do not intend to let anyone stand in their way.
Apart from the fact that the story is set in Scotland and based on a small
part of ancient history, this is a standard fantasy tale.
What sets the story apart is the author's ability to involve the reader in
both the story and the lives of her characters. There is far less
violence than normal in a story of this type, the author concentrating on
building an excellent story line and characters with real depth.
There are occasional passages that go on for too long, but they are more
than made up for by the bulk of an interesting, intelligent story.
There are one or two passages that denigrate Christianity and they may
upset some people.
This aside, this is a book to be read and enjoyed.
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