Child of the Phoenix

I totally disagree with the other reviewer. Of course, I think the other reviewers rating was about the condition of the book, not about the content. Barbara Erskine is a fantastic writer. She has the ability to weave the past and present together in a manner that is comprehensible and compelling. I have read and thoroughly enjoyed every book this author has written and will continue to do so. This is an awesome read! You will not be disappointed.

I just wanted to write and say how very much I enjoyed this book. This book was so well written, the characters so real (some of them are fictional, some are actual historical figures) that I could really envision all of the things that were going on. Child of the Phoenix is about one of the daughters of Llywellyn ap Iowerth of Wales, Elyene, who through a series of marriages becomes a prominent figure of the court of Robert de Bruce (of Braveheart fame). Elyene is a strong, intelligent woman who through looking through the fire, is able to see into the future and sometimes the past. Unfortunately she is unable to tell when these visions are occuring so more often than not they cause her great sorrow as she is unable to warn people of things to come. In this book we meet some of the most fascinating characters in English history, including Edward I, and II, Robert de Bruce and (my favorite) Llywellyn. It was a huge disappointment to reach the end of the book, but luckily I have two more of Ms. Erskine's books to tide me by. As a teacher who specializes in the history of England, Scotland and Wales, this book was a definate treat.

Okay, so Wales isn't that far off from me, but it is a book which sweeps you away. The historical detail is so accurate that you know Barbara Erskine has done her research, but it doesn't detract from the story.Everything flows so well, that it is easy to imagine the time and place. I really grew to like Eleyna and I was sorry to see the story end. It's one to read again and would make a great present for people who like historical romance.Reveiwed by Annette Gisby, author of Silent Screams.

Like other reviewers, I love Barbara Erskine's books. I just can't put them down once I've started! I am always happy when she has a new book out. She writes gripping plotlines that keep you on the edge of your seat. A lot of her books are partly set in Scotland, and being a Scot, I like to read about where she has written. Child of the Phoenix is especially exciting, and I take my hat off to her research skills. Poor Eleyne! Being affluent doesn't necessarily get you what you want in life. Aren't you glad we're living in the 21st Century, gals? Was she real, was she one complete person or a composite? Who knows. The story may be fabricated, but Barbara Erskine nonetheless writes her tale over a historically factual background. An inspiration to budding authors she is. I wonder how her novels would fare on film. Any offers?

I have read every book Barbara Erskine has published. I love her style and characters. Child of the Phoenix was the first book I read of hers and still remains one of my favourite books of all time. If you like her books you will also enjoy Elizabeth Harris's books (e.g. Herb Gatherers). They are the type of books you don't put down until you have finished! Keep it for a rainy day that you have all to yourself.