Queen of Darkness

Rhianna and her sister Eleri are taken under the protection of Boudica just before she becomes Queen of the Iceni. Therefore they are witnesses to the rebellion against Roman rule that Boudica leads in collaboration with the leaders of other tribes. However, as the author says in an historical note ‘She released all the hatred of a conquered people for their oppressors, and that led to terrible things.’ Boudica is portrayed as a charismatic and fierce leader.

Another novel about Boudica: Song for a Dark Queen, Rosemary Sutcliff (9781782950943), Red Fox £6.99.