The Silver Branch

I have always loved Rosemary Sutcliff. I have been reading her books since I was quite young,(around 10) and will continue to enjoy them through the years. I don't especially like series that continue without end, but I do like the small intertwining throughout her books. It is awesome! Rosemary rocks!

I found this book to be fantastic. I love the time and setting, but it was much more than that. The characters are all so real and alive, the historical events are so accuratly portrayed, and, most of all, the writing is excellent. Rosemary Sutcliff has fast become one of my very favorite authors, and I would definately reccommend this book to almost anyone, especially if you have any interest in the Roman Empire or Britian/early British history. (I only might not reccommend this to some kids, because the writing isn't always so easy, and they might get bogged down or confused)

I first read this book over 20 years ago--it was probably my first Rosemary Sutcliff. I loved it then and I love it now. It's a great read! I've always loved the way Sutcliff brings her ancient British settings to life.

I would have given this book 4 stars but I don't think it deserves these really bad reviews. it's a great book. But you have to know about the late Roman Empire to explain why its so confusing. IF YOU CAN KEEP TRACK OF THE PLOT IT IS ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS EVER WRITTEN! I like this book more than the others of this really great series the reason being that the 1st book is superb but seems hazy and that the 3rd book is a materpiece but so hopelessly depressing, this book seems more alive than the others . The reason i would give this book 4 stars is because this story badly needs an epilouge even though you know where the 2ndary character lands. I like how the author chooses a family failure as a character. MY ADVICE IS TO FOLLOW THE BOOK CLOSELY AND IT WILL BECOME A FAVORITE.

This is the second in a loosely linked trilogy (the 1st and 3rd books are 'Eagle of the Ninth' and 'The Lantern Bearers'), and is arguably the best of the three. Sutcliff's narrative is evocative and colorful, and the story is both engaging and full of surprises. If the book has any fault it is in a certain license taken with actual historical events, but since the setting is a very obscure period of Roman-occupied Britain, the liberty is easily overlooked. If you are a Sutcliff fan (and I have yet to meet anyone who has read her who isn't!) you will love this book!