The mythology and mystery of ancient Britannia are brought vividly to life in Land of Kings, the second installment of Virginia Weldon’s Britannia Chronicles.
A decade after Regan, Valerius, Cara, and Alana’s lives first collide, peace feels like a distant dream and there are still many battles on the horizon. Regan, having honed his impressive battle skills in the gladiator pits, returns to Britannia with his freedom intact, fire in his belly and a singular goal of reuniting with the woman he loves. Meanwhile, the rebel forces of the island nation are amassing under Queen Boudicca, and Alana and Valerius must decide where their ultimate loyalties lie.
The detail and obvious depth of research in this action-packed story are remarkable, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in the liminal space between fact and fiction. Vacillating between dramatic historical events and intense personal storylines, this sophomore novel is thrilling for a wide range of readers.
On the technical side of the writing, some of the narration feels unnecessary, and could be shared with readers in more organic dialogic sections. The romantic elements could also use an injection of passion or authenticity, as some of the potentially poignant moments between Alana and Valerius fall somewhat flat. These are minor complaints, however, as the majority of this book is a gripping epic set in an ancient world that is beautifully envisioned, which will enthrall readers of both fantasy and historical fiction.
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