Review of Justinian’s Torch
As an avid fan of historical fiction and alternative history, I was immediately drawn to Justinian’s Torch. The intriguing blend of Roman history with fantastical elements, such as airships and druid prophecies, promised a captivating reading experience. I wanted to see how the author wove history and imagination into a compelling narrative, and I was not disappointed.
Justinian’s Torch follows the journey of Cillian, a character whose development I found particularly engaging. As he navigates the complexities of commanding airships in the Scottish highlands, I appreciated the layers added to his character, especially with the discovery of his Eruain lineage. This background gave depth to his struggles and decisions, making me more invested in his fate as the narrative unfolded. Cillian’s conflict in dealing with the Caledonian Druidess Coevla and the weight of her prophecy created a fascinating tension that propelled the story forward.
The strength of the book lies not only in its well-drawn characters but also in the richness of its world-building. Egan’s portrayal of the alliance between the Romans and the Caledonii as they prepare to invade the Dalriadae is both historically rooted and imaginative. The action sequences, particularly those involving airship battles, were well-crafted and filled with tension and excitement. The challenges Cillian faces while flying in the “wet and windy highlands” added an authentic touch to the trials of warfare in this vivid, fantastical setting.
However, I can see where some readers might have mixed feelings. I shared the sentiment, expressed in Marc S. Dalla Costa’s review, that the pacing could be uneven at times. While some sections of the book were nail-biting and unputdownable, others felt a bit slower, especially during detailed exposition. I totally understood his enthusiasm—there were genuinely thrilling moments in the narrative that left me craving more, yet there were instances when the story seemed to stall.
Another drawback that resonated with me was the lack of depth in secondary characters. While Cillian is fleshed out beautifully, some of the supporting characters felt a bit underdeveloped. They served their purpose in the plot but didn’t quite attain the same level of complexity. This discrepancy somewhat limited my emotional investment in their fates, particularly in moments when they faced peril.
The official description highlights the stakes of the impending invasion and the personal costs that Cillian grapples with. Indeed, while victory over the Dalriadae seems within reach, Egan dives into the darker implications of what success might mean for Cillian and his men. That theme of exploring the moral weight of leadership is one that stuck with me long after I closed the book.
In conclusion, Justinian’s Torch was a thrilling read that beautifully marries history with imaginative storytelling. While it had its pacing issues and the secondary characters could have benefited from more depth, the narrative ultimately kept me engaged from start to finish. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction who enjoy a bit of fantasy mixed in—particularly those who thrive on stories of conflict, personal growth, and complex legacies. I can’t wait to see where Cillian’s journey takes him next!