Historical
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Patrick’s ten-man mission arrives by boat in the Irish kingdom of Brega, and they are immediately expelled by the king’s warriors. Rowing north, they find refuge with a group of outlaws, and from these humble beginnings create their first church.
When Patrick lights an Easter fire and falls foul of druid custom, at the time of a national gathering of kings, near to Tara, Matho, the Arch-druid of Ireland arranges that Patrick should answer to the High King. But Matho is trapped by his own lies, enabling Patrick to turn the hearing to his advantage, winning the High King’s acceptance of his mission whilst the arch-druid is stripped of his seniority – ensuring Matho’s lifelong antagonism towards Patrick.
Patrick loses a champion on the death of High King Niall, suffering further when the succeeding king restores Matho to power. The Arch-druid cunningly plots a spectacular atrocity, to ruin Patrick’s thriving church, culminating in the burning of Patrick at the stake. As flames lick at the hem of Patrick’s robes, ‘Where is your god now?’ Matho taunts.
Here's what readers have to say about this book....
This excellently researched and brilliantly inventive novel shows that the early years of one of the world's most famous saints was anything but glorious. For this reviewer, what makes a good historical novel great is when the author tells the most accurate story possible from historical references and fills the gaps with excellent time-relevant characters and events. Foster has done this and more. Sticking faithfully to the story of St. Patrick in his own words in his Confessio, the author creates a highly believable pagan Ireland whose hills, way of life and occasional battles are filled with fabulous characters and believable dialogue. ...a pleasure to read. Full review available at: Becoming St. Patrick: His Slavery - Historical Novel Society