Becoming St. Patrick

Becoming St. Patrick by Eric Foster is the fictionalized story of Patricius journey into slavery and self-discovery in Ireland after being kidnapped by raiders. He found that the structure of Ireland was much different than Roman Britain. It was much more egalitarian. He had the good luck to be purchased by a good and fair king, King Miliuce, who noticed him limping on the journey from the sea to his kingdom and allowed, now Patrick, to ride. A huge boon to a new slave. Patrick was assigned to a man called Cormac who was to teach him to tend the flock of sheep. A huge step down from Patricius’ life as a noble in Britain. Cormac was a good teacher and a gentle soul, along with the sheep dog, Soldier, who was at their side at all times. After a season, Cormac left Patrick to tend the sheep on his own and he had learned well. About this time, he met a woman named Bride, the daughter of a “tailor” in the village. They were immediately attracted to one another but in just another couple of days, Patrick returned to his sheep. It wasn’t always easy: there were predators, both human and animal, and occasionally he lost a sheep or lamb. Life went on and he grew to know the sheep and, in his solitary life, to know God. At some point, years after his capture, God told him it was time to leave. So he did.

I have always been curious about St. Patrick and can only hope Foster writes a sequel about the years after he returned home and eventually became St. Patrick. It was an easy read, exemplar of historical fiction, and yet, held the right tone. Patrick/Patricius made sacrifices to live his life as he saw fit and it shone through the words. He met people on his journey home, some good, some bad, who helped him on his way. It was said that no foreign slave ever escaped Ireland. He did. It was well-written and as far as I can tell, well-researched. It was a book worth reading if you have any interest. Even if you don’t.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Becoming St. Patrick by Matador, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Matador #EricFoster #BecomingStPatrick

This is an epic story set at the beginning of the fifth century as the Romans prepare to leave England and Patricius, teenage son of noble parents, is taken into slavery by Irish raiders.
There is a wealth of compelling detail as Patricius is forced to become Patrick, a shepherd in the hills, where he will discover a new life, find unexpected friendship, and love - love for a free woman; love for his new life; and love for God. He will also find brutal cruelty and jealousy amidst hardship, poverty and murder.
I found the story totally engaging from the very beginning, and as page-turning as a thriller. The prose is poignant, and carries a powerful message of hope, self-discovery, and the way in which to accept faith into one's heart.

Has a spiritual tone along with historical intriguing. Pretty fast paced and enjoyable to read. Surprise pick for me but a lot.