Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Stephen Lawhead, Patrick

In this work of imaginative historical fiction, Lawhead follows the exploits and exploitation of a young saint Patrick. This story, set mostly in Britain and Ireland, along with Gaul, Germania, and Rome, is an expansive and well-told tale. Lawhead does a great job of recreating the medieval world. And likewise the story of Patrick is a compelling one, as he emerges from a life of privilege and embarks on a journey of self-discovery, a journey which he sets upon unwillingly, as a captured slave at the hands of Irish raiders.

Patrick is my first Stephen Lawhead book, but it won't be my last. His writing is thoughtful, as well as entertaining. His characters are authentic, and they wrestle with real and timeless issues in a genuine way. And there is an epic feel to his writing, with the great places and characters that are encountered along the way. I found this book to be readable and interesting, as well as thought-provoking.

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