The Scarlet Banner

"The Scarlet Banner" by Felix Dahn is a historical fiction that transports readers to North Africa during the war-torn era of Vandals versus Romans. The story follows Gelimer, the would-be king, his sibling Zazo, and Hilda, an Ostrogoth royal, as they grapple with the internal chaos of their kingdom, and the looming threat of war. The story begins by painting a portrait of Gelimer wrestling with his place in the world, in the face of a declaration of war against the Vandals, while the narrative pulls at the strings of previous victories and pacts, setting the stage for the challenges ahead. As Gelimer attempts to maneuver through a web of devious alliances and betrayals, the connection between him and other characters adds depth to the narrative. Through detailed scenes, Dahn highlights both the struggles of the characters as well as the cultural and social tensions that define this period.