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.

Fast paced... engrossing...

This book kicks off one of the best series I've ever read. I wholeheartedly recommend.

Enjoyable history

Best developed and credibe Arthurian legend in print. Well developed story and excellent narration. Will encourage all my family to read these books.

Great read

Read and loved the whole series when it came out. Awesome story. Really love listening to someone read it to me while I play in the garden now.

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

good book. well read. sometimes slow.

the narration was good. the book got into very much detail sometimes dragging out parts. I look forward to the rest of the series.

What a wonderful story.

I have read this book many times, listen to the audible Version twice. I enjoy this series immensely I would recommend it highly.

Enjoyed the book. Now the audio book as well.

Jack Whyte is in his element.
Good story. Good production.
Good performance.
Time well listened.

A Favorite

Outstanding start to this historical fantasy saga. I have read and listened to the story multiple times and continue to enjoy it.

A promising start but disappoints

See my review of book two of the series. Not sure I can stick it out nine volumes.