Following the Footsteps of VERCINGETORIX

About the Book

Following the Footsteps of Vercingetorix is a deeply researched historical novel that is at once entertaining and educational. Fiction and history are delicately interwoven throughout the story, enhancing its readability. The historical narrative chronicles the catastrophic struggle of the Celtic people of Gaul to protect their cherished independence, relentlessly threatened by the ambitious Roman tyrant, Julius Caesar. Early into the chaotic conflict, the legendary warrior, Vercingetorix, challenges Caesar’s quest for fame and power by uniting the many stubbornly independent Gallic tribes and assembling those fearsome albeit undisciplined warriors into an army of resistance. This formidable feat has secured his exalted standing in the history of the Celtic people.

The affable fictional characters are members of the same tribe as our hero, Vercingetorix. Venicio, an intensely spiritual young man currently studying Druidic theology, assumes a literary role as Vercingetorix’s half-brother. His primary task is to follow in his older brother’s footsteps, thereby revealing the Gallic War’s innumerable events, struggles, and horrors to the reader. In addition to that role, he is a family man living in a typical first-century BCE Gallic village, which enables him to guide the reader into the life and mindset of his people at that time in history. Instead of a dry explanation, it’s a hands-on approach to cultural anthropology. Considering his profound spirituality, the young man is remarkably qualified to transport the reader through Celtic mythology’s vast, mysterious labyrinth. It is indeed a fascinating mythology, not to be confused with science fiction. Its supernatural foundation is the lifeblood of Celtic philosophy, theology, and daily living.

As you will learn, Druidic law did not permit the recording of events in written form. What we know about that mythology comes from the work of many persistent cultural anthropologists. The Druidic caste retained knowledge of all historical events, medicine, theology, and law in their memory. So, we know nothing of the stories and legends told dramatically by the Gallic bards for both education and entertainment. Those intriguing stories were often told on starry nights around popping, crackling bonfires. However, Gallic refugees brought much of that oral culture to the British Isles, especially to Ireland. When the Christian era began in Ireland, many of those stories were collected and chronicled by monks, who, of course, incorporated a Christian bias. Although altered by Irish Christian perspectives, anthropologists have restored many of those charming fireside tales into a more likely Gallic form.

As for our fictional protagonists, they live interesting lives during interesting times, revealing much of that mystical age to the curious reader. It must be said that our young couple marries for love, a novel concept in an ancient society of pragmatic people. The topic becomes the focus of discussion, excitement, and gossip throughout the village. An interesting read for those curious about fascinating ages and exotic places, especially for those folks with a dash of Celtic lineage.

About the Author

Sam Owens is a lifelong resident of Appalachia. He is a writer, a retired schoolteacher, and an avid gardener. He loves teaching, writing, and reading noteworthy novels and history.