The Skystone

Camulod Chronicles, Book 1

By: Jack Whyte

Narrated by: Kevin Pariseau

Length: 21 hrs and 3 mins

Publisher's summary

Everyone knows the story-how Arthur pulled the sword from the stone, how Camelot came to be, and about the power struggles that ultimately destroyed Arthur's dreams. But what of the time before Arthur and the forces that created him?

How did the legend really come to pass?

Before the time of Arthur and his Camelot, Britain was a dark and deadly place, savaged by warring factions of Picts, Celts, and invading Saxons. The Roman citizens who had lived there for generations were suddenly faced with a deadly choice: Should they leave and take up residence in a corrupt Roman world that was utterly foreign, or should they stay and face the madness that would ensue when Britain's last bastion of safety for the civilized, the Roman legions, left?

For two Romans, Publius Varrus and his friend Caius Britannicus, there can be only one answer. They will stay, to preserve what is best of Roman life, and will create a new culture out of the wreckage. In doing so, they will unknowingly plant the seeds of legend-for these two men are Arthur's great-grandfathers, and their actions will shape a nation . . . and forge a sword known as Excalibur.

©1996 Jack Whyte (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

Best Ever

Any additional comments?

This series is the best I have read, my favorite books since I read them 15 years ago

Excellent!!

Couldn't wait to put in my headphones and listen to this great book once again. Interesting start to the Arthurian legend we all think we know by now... I love how he gives plausible explanations to the "magical" parts of the legend and rather than taking something away, it actually makes the story more fascinating. I'd like to believe Arthur (at least) was real and this book reinforces the hope that possibly he was.

great Arthurian story

if you like Arthurian stories, you will love this series of books from Jack Whyte. he takes the story without the magic and makes the legend plausible. a very enjoyable read. this is my third time thru the series.

History come to life

What made the experience of listening to The Skystone the most enjoyable?

Jack Whyte has made this age become real to me.

What did you like best about this story?

Easy to follow and relate to.

Any additional comments?

I love the way that history can be made to come come alive this way.

Camulod chronicles are my absolute favorite!

I've read the series years ago when I was single and childless. Audio book allows me to go about my chores or exercise as I listen now that my life is busier with hubby, pre-teens and their sports.

Awesome book, Whyte hit a home run with this one.

Great story well told, now I understand why the series was so well reviewed. Looking forward to the next book.

This could have been historically true…

Jack Whyte’s novel is so detailed and the characters are so well developed, and the story so well written, I’m almost convinced that this story that takes place in Britain during the slow fall of the Roman Empire could have been historically true. And there are more books to follow??? I am all for following this series of books to the end. Bravo Mr. Whyte! Bravo!

One of my favorite stories.

Great start to an amazing series which a portrays a realistic take on an mythical story performed beautifully by Kevin Periseau. If you are a fan of historical fiction you will love it.

HIS FACE WAS LIKE THUNDER

I like Historical Fiction and I hate History texts. This book can not decide what it wants to be. It has some interesting characters and some interesting stories, but it is mostly lectures. It is long detailed descriptions of Roman Warfare. What they wore, full descriptions of most of the weapons they used and how they used them. A lot on tactics, etc. There are lectures on Smithing. There is even lectures on slavery. These lectures often add little to the story. It is a real shame, because when Jack is not lecturing, his well developed characters are doing interesting things. I did not sign up for a Great Courses on Roman Warfare, so six hours in, I called it quits.

Finally the audiobooks for this great series

What did you love best about The Skystone?

It's like being transported back to the Roman Empire, but with the light touch of the great narrator.

What other book might you compare The Skystone to and why?

It reminds me of the style of Ellis Peters in Brother Cadfael for the ability to make you live the historical period and entertain you at the same time.

Which character – as performed by Kevin Pariseau – was your favorite?

I definitely like the protagonist Publius Varus

Who was the most memorable character of The Skystone and why?

Of course Caius Britannicus is very impressive