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The Green Hills of Snowdonia #2

The Treasure of the Celtic Triangle

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Join Percy Drummond on an unforgettable quest to solve the long-hidden mystery of the Westbrooke estate. . .as he finds that the greatest treasure was nearer than he imagined.

450 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2012

44 people are currently reading
296 people want to read

About the author

Michael R. Phillips

250 books612 followers
Librarian Note: there is more than one author with this name in the Goodreads database.

Michael Phillips has been writing in the Christian marketplace for 30 years. All told, he has written, co-written, and edited some 110 books. Phillips and his wife live in the U.S., and make their second home in Scotland.

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5 stars
175 (51%)
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107 (31%)
3 stars
40 (11%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Victor Gentile.
2,035 reviews66 followers
November 18, 2012
Michael Phillips in his new book, “The Treasure of the Celtic Triangle” Book Two in The Green Hills of Snowdonia series published by Barbour Publishing Inc. takes us into the life of Percy Drummond.

From the Back Cover: A quest for the truth leads home

Having accepted his uncle’s dying request to restore the missing heir to the Westbrook estate, young Scotsman Percy begins an unforgettable journey. But as his search leads him to Ireland, circumstances in Wales threaten the future.

Percy’s engagement to beautiful Florilyn Westbrooke hangs in the balance when Florilyn fears they are moving too quickly. Childhood friend Gwyneth Barrie disappears unexpectedly and Percy begins to feel his heart pulled toward the mystifying lass. Meanwhile, cousin Courtenay Westbrooke devises a scheme destined to rip the family and estate apart once he inherits his late father’s title.

As Percy’s quest continues down many circuitous paths, the key to the mystery seems forever to elude him… unless he can discover the greatest treasure that was within his sight all along. Will he find the true reward before it fades into the misty Celtic past?

The quest is on. Percy sets out to fulfill his dying uncle’s last request and that involves a journey that takes him through Wales, Ireland, and Scotland. While he is on his quest there is treachery at home as Courtney moves to take the title and destroy the estate. Then the romance between Percy and Florilyn seems to be dissolving while it may be beginning with Gwyneth, however she has mysteriously disappeared. Deceit, treachery, mystery and romance fill the pages of ”The Treasure of the Celtic Triangle”. Mr. Phillips has given us quite a story and it is filled with the wonder of countries that I have not been to in a time before industry took over. I liked this book and really did not want it to come to an end.

If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour Publishing Inc. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Profile Image for Anne.
Author 1 book50 followers
February 24, 2015
This is the sequel to "From Across the Ancient Waters." and I found it a terrific read. It continues the story of Percy, his cousins and family, but this time he is charged with a task by his uncle who has died. I figured out part of it before the ending, but it is still a well crafted story and recommended. Be sure and read the first book before reading this one.
596 reviews16 followers
September 13, 2012
The Treasure of the Celtic Triangle is part of the Green Hills of Snowdonia series and the continuation of the tale that began in the book From Across the Ancient Waters.

While the author sums up the events of the first book, all the character development and most of the plot development occurs in From Across the Ancient Waters and I really can’t imagine enjoying The Treasure of the Celtic Triangle without reading its precursor.

In all honesty, I found the first book in the series superior to this, much needed, conclusion to the tale. Perhaps it was because so much of this novel walked in darkness and despair of things ever coming out right. While the first book focused on the characters growth out of darkness into light, this novel spent a great deal of time watching the characters sinking back onto a darker path. It’s really unfair of me, however, to review this novel as a separate entity, because it is just a piece of the whole story.

Phillips is a masterful storyteller with a gift for writing. His is an old style of literature. His words unfold slowly with space between them: space in which to breathe deeply and think carefully about all that is unfolding. I don’t just read Phillips novels, I live in them.

I’ve heard some call his writing boring and truthfully it does lack the fast pacing of most modern writing. His books hearken back to another time and if you do not care for classic literature then I suspect you won’t be fond of this series.

The publishing company’s press release relates Phillips to MacDonald and I agree that the comparison stands. The Green Hills of Snowdonia series highlights this comparison by including references to and discussions about MacDonald’s work within the storyline. I grew up reading George MacDonald and learned many deep spiritual lessons from the pages of his novels. In Phillips’ writing I find the same gifts. The theme of the Father Heart of God weaves beautifully throughout these books.

This series stirred my soul and challenged my thinking while it entertained. That’s one of the highest praises that I can give to a book. Would you love it? I’m not sure. It really depends on whether you can slow down, breathe deep and read slowly and thoughtfully. If you can do that then I’m certain that these books will not disappoint.

*** I received a free digital copy of The Treasure of the Celtic Triangle from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion ***
2,323 reviews38 followers
July 28, 2012
Treasure of the Celtic Triangle by Michael Phillips
5 STARS
This is the second book with these characters,but it stands alone. I
have not read the first one but I am going to read it soon.
No bedroom scenes or swearing in the book. Lots of caring for
others.
The book starts in 1872 Courtenay is the heir to Viscount but he
will inheirit when he turns 25. In less than 2 years he has come back
home because he spent almost all of his money. Thier has been no
money added to his account since his father died. He is very spoiled
and greedy.
Viscountess Lady Katherine is the last wife of the Viscount. She is
mother of Courtenay and Florilyn. She is caretaker of the estate till
her son turns 25. She has money of her own where their is not a lot
of money with the lands.
Florilyn is the younger than her brother. She is engaged to her cousin
Percy.
Percy is engaged to Florilyn. Has been coming to Wales to stay with
his Aunt since age 16 when he kept getting into trouble so his parents
thought that might help. He is just finshing collage and is thinking he
wants to go into law. Percy was with his Uncle when he was dying and
his Uncle asked him to look into a matter of his past for him. If he can
find something or someone than tell his Aunt Katherine the truth but if
proof can not be found don't hurt his family
Florilyn and Percy are reading the same book and writing letters back and
forth to discuss it. Florilyn soon see herself in the book along with Percy and Gwyneth. She thinks that maybe they got engaged too fast and need to
pray and think if that is Gods will.
Percy is hurt but feels it would not hurt to slow down and make sure that they are right for each other. He also has to look into his feelings of the
missing Gwyneth.
Stephen was a shepard but Viscountess asked him to manage the estate for her. Stephen is a well read man. He follows God and cares for the families
that live on the property. He knows how to take care of the horses. Has been friends with Percy and Florilyn. His cousin is Gwyneth and his family don't know where Gwyneth ,her father and Granny moved too.
Lots of secrets and plans that go behind each others back. It kept my attention in the book. I hated to put it down.
I was given this book to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley.
08/01/2012 PUB Barbour Publishing, Inc.
Profile Image for Pamela.
1,829 reviews40 followers
February 4, 2015
This is book two of the Christian, and faith based drama. It is very good. I really liked book one, so I ordered book two. This one was good, but got a bit repetitive. The parables meant to show our clear need of the lord were well written, but repeated quite often. The story continues where the first book left off. Percy is away at university, and is supposed to love one woman, and she him. A book by a Christian author seems to change that, and things keep changing from there. This book has some really mean spirited people in it, but most will find their path. I only had a slight problem with how a character could go from all loving, and devoted one minute, and the next turn so far to the left. Then turn back again to the right. This all in a few months time. There was a general feel of devotion to God's will, and that once that is learned, and followed, things will turn out for the best. It had quite a few characters, so I recommend book one first. This book was a gentle guide, with a little bite to it. It did not just gently hint, but directed. I loved the ending, and wish that in life, problems, and setbacks, could be settled, and accepted so lovingly.That would make for a beautiful, and more accepting world. There are a few well gleamed thoughts, and words from the author, that lead one to be a better, and more forgiving person. I enjoyed the book.
Profile Image for IrenesBookReviews.
1,047 reviews28 followers
August 3, 2012
This is another exciting book by Michael Phillips. If you have never read a book by this author this book will be a great start! This is not a book you can sit and read in an hour but is a real in-depth meaningful story. This book is also part of the Green Hills of Snowdonia series. You do not have to read the others but it would be very beneficial to read them in order. The first book is called From Across The Ancient Waters.

Percy Drummond starts a journey out of respect to his uncle’s wishes but the journey ends up changing him forever. There is intrigue, adventure and a bit of romance to keep you turning the pages of this story. The characters are very well developed and their personalities show with some great writing. I enjoyed the interaction of the characters as well as the story line itself.

I gave this book 5/5 stars. There was nothing about this book I did not enjoy. I loved the setting, liked most of the characters and the story was intriguing. This book definitely held my attention and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a story that is more then a few chapters long!

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
Profile Image for Faith.
2,216 reviews
September 3, 2012
A lovely novel that evokes the classic writing styles of years gone by.


Percy has grown up and become a man, having accepted his uncle's dying request, Percy embarks on a quest to resolve the mystery of the Westbrooke estate, and hte answer might be closer than he ever thought.


Michael Phillips has written another memorable addition to his The Green Hills of Snowdonia saga. This book is written in a style and plot reminiscent of the late George Macdonald, which I believe was totally intentional.


I loved how the characters were carefully crafted, and there was mystery to the plot. But the thing that I most loved was that this was the kind of book that you might find on the shelves of a home 100 years ago, because of the values represented and solid biblical foundation.


The descriptions were detailed and I like how the characters interacted. Florilyn was a wonderful character who continued to grow, and I like watching these young people grow into the people that they were supposed to be.


Overall a wonderful book that I found very enjoyable.


I received this ebook from the publishers in exchange for an honest review. Thanks!
Profile Image for Amanda.
194 reviews26 followers
September 12, 2012
Book synopsis from GoodReads:
Join Percy Drummond on a search that takes him from Scotland to Ireland and a treasure that is closer than imagined. Having accepted his uncle’s dying request, Percy begins an unforgettable quest to solve the hidden mystery of the Westbrooke estate. Meanwhile, circumstances in Wales threaten his success—and the future. As the key to the mystery seems to slip further from him, will Percy discover that treasure is closer than he imagined?

My Thoughts:
I love the history, scenery, and the passion showed through the delightful characters. The Treasure of The Celtic Triangle is a wonderful story of forgiveness and redemption. An extraordinary tale of an extended family- loving, religious, loyal, stubborn, selfish- all delivered in a superbly written story. The characters and plot were well thought out and interwoven together binding the reader to all of them. My favorite quote from the book was from the first few pages: "Beneath the ground its life must lie, while winter roared and blustered above, until such time as cousin spring rescued earth's life again from the grave."
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads
Profile Image for G .
500 reviews7 followers
September 30, 2012
The is a beautiful novel written in a similar manner to those of Louisa May Alcott in that it creates in the reader the desire to live a better life with a closer walk with the Lord. On his deathbed, Percy Drummond’s uncle requests that Percy attempt to locate his never acknowledged first born child from Ireland. Since the location of the heir will change the current lineage, Percy takes on the task while his wedding plans fall apart, and his cousin threatens Percy’s aunt. This story is heart wrenching and beautiful, running the gamut of emotions. I loved it. This is the first Michael Phillips novel that I have read, and I will definitely look for all his others. I would recommend this for people who enjoy a novel that captures their hearts and strives to lift them up while it weaves a beautiful story.

Received Galley from NetGalley.com

Published by Barbour Publishing, Inc. on August 1, 2012.
Profile Image for Gina.
55 reviews5 followers
May 8, 2012
I love a good story that is set before my time, it is always a learning experience and fun to hear about things I haven't gotten to experience. By that note the Treasure of the Celtic circle also brought to the table, some lovely women, a few bad boys, and some mystery. Our main set of characters were young adults Florilyn and Percy who determined they were not suited to marry once engaged.
After the loss of Florilyn's Father Percy went on a mission for him and while gone Florilyn got herself mixed up in some unfortunate company! Percy found the love of his life and solved a great mystery that proved to keep home as it should be! I loved watching our characters like Percy and Gwyneth, Florilyn, Courtenay and Steven as they each navigated their lives, made some mistakes and in the end found the true them and some true love!
Profile Image for Yodamom.
2,217 reviews216 followers
August 31, 2012
I won this is some contest, it's not something I would normally read, Christian Fiction. But it was such a pretty book I decided to give it a try. (It is a beautiful book) I did and was surprised at how enjoyable it is. It was a very romantic tale of love and friendship. It dealt with anger, lies, mistrusts and greed. The treatment of such negative forces was very interesting to read. I expected it to be 'preachy' but found that not to be the case. Yes, it had it's moments of sharing the word. I muddled through those and found myself thinking of new ways to handle difficult situations. It goes beyond a religious read, it does dig deep into moral character. Mr. Phillips is a great story teller.
3.5 stars
Profile Image for Kelley.
735 reviews146 followers
December 28, 2012
Novel received courtesy of Goodreads.com

I enjoyed "The Treasure of the Celtic Triangle" although it was not at all what I thought it was going to be about when I signed up to win it. A very small part of the novel concerned actual buried treasure; the larger part concerned the treasure of a person's heart. The author kept referencing the author George MacDonald whom I have not encountered. The story was an enjoyable look at the movement of DL Moody Christians in Wales, Scotland and Ireland during the late 1800's. The characters were well-developed and believable as was the research of the period.
Profile Image for Diana.
1,562 reviews86 followers
December 15, 2016
Book received from Goodreads Giveaways

I've had this book on my shelf for awhile now, I pulled it off to read after reading another Historical Fiction novel since I was in the mood to read more. It was an interesting book, but I was slightly lost since I hadn't read the first book in the series. It is a Christian work of fiction and takes place in the Snowdonia region of Wales. It is based around a family and the characters are really well written, I really suggest it for those who enjoy Christian Historical Fiction. Just make sure to read the first book in the series before tackling this one.
Profile Image for Amanda.
86 reviews7 followers
November 13, 2012
I received this book free through the goodreads FIRST READS program

So first, I LOVE anything to do with Celtic stuff. I am just a fanatic with it and thats why I entered this giveaway. I was enthralled every inch of the way. There was a few times I got a little bored (but I think it had to do with a newborn sleep schedule than anything). I loved the detail of history and landscape in the book. It was just beautiful. It made feel like I was connected. The love of the characters shone brilliantly. Its always great to receive a novel like this and imagine yourself in it. I was captivated.
37 reviews6 followers
December 4, 2012
I won this book on Goodreads. This book completes the stories from the first book, From Across the Ancient Waters. The author continues with his beautifully detailed descriptions of locations. The characters continue to grow spiritually as they work through their relationships. The stories about missing gold and the missing heir bring the book to it's conclusion with the author summarizing the futures of the characters instead of continuing with another book. These books are not quick reads and are for those who want a relaxing read with scenery as involved as the characters.
Profile Image for steph .
1,403 reviews94 followers
August 11, 2012
3.5/5

This book was good. Long with a lot of characters but quite enjoyable. I loved the vivid descriptions of places and the different characters and the way they interacted with each other. Percy was a really good and well drawn out character and seeing him come into his own and find his heart content made me happy. The references to God and his works were well done as well, not too heavy handed or all mighty as I've found in some Christian books. Would re-read this book again!

*ARC PROVIDED BY NETGALLEY
Profile Image for Elsa.
8 reviews
February 21, 2014
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. While it isn't the best I've ever read, it certainly isn't terrible.
I actually bought it on a whim while shopping at a discount store. Books on display always catch my eye and this one reminded me of the Victoria Holt books I read as a kid. I had no idea it was a Christian book.
The plot is kinda happily ever after and sometimes (especially after reading as much apocalyptic novels as I do) I need that kind of feel-good book to put me in a different mind-set. I look forward to reading more by Michael Phillips.
Profile Image for Josiah.
376 reviews24 followers
September 4, 2012
Basically a retooled version of George MacDonald's "David Elginbrod," this story is set in northern Wales in the 1870s and focuses on the tangled family history of the Drummonds, Snowdons and Barries, and their neighbors and servants. A very enjoyable read for those who are romance fans.

Plot: B
Writing: C
Vocabulary: B
Level: Easy
Rating: PG (references to: death in childbirth, rebellious children, fistfights, bullying)
Worldview: Christian
Profile Image for Tracy.
1,960 reviews8 followers
September 29, 2017
An interesting Christian mystery as a young man tries to untangle some family secrets. I'm not too sure how I feel about the story line ... sometimes I wonder if at that time frame the characters would have really had the freedoms to act the way they did. However, this book was significantly better written than much of the Christian fiction I have read ... almost philosophical without being trite or preachy. I will probably seek out more by this author.
Profile Image for Rachael.
733 reviews
November 28, 2013
Once again a great read from Phillips. I like books that make me think, challenge me in my walk with The Lord, and have a great story woven throughout. This book gives all three. It is somewhat a prodigal son story., and it also is a story of the mercy and grace of Christ. Truly lived this book. Highly recommend this read.
Profile Image for Jane.
408 reviews2 followers
January 31, 2014
This is not generally the type of book I would pick up to read, but a friend thought I would like the story. I was kind of put off by the Christian aspect of the book, but I ended up enjoying it. The story was enjoyable. I liked the characters. I didn't really enjoy all the descriptive passages. In the end, I enjoyed the story.
1 review
February 13, 2016
This was a great book! The story caught and held my attention from the beginning. I didn't want to stop reading. The characters bring God into their daily lives in a way that helps them grow. I learned new information in a painless well. I enjoyed this so much, I bought more stories from this author.
Profile Image for Carrie.
59 reviews10 followers
December 20, 2012
Won this book through first reads good books. Very glad I did. The book itself is gorgeous. Enjoyed reading this one. Characters were well built and the storyline was very interesting and clean. Haven't read the 1st book but it is on my list now.
Profile Image for Misty.
86 reviews3 followers
February 25, 2015
Won this in the goodreads giveaways. This was an ok book, but very religious. The plot was pretty predictable and the romance was also. He quoted, many times, other books and made it feel like a book report instead of a novel. If you don't mind being preached at then you'll like this book.
Profile Image for Marcia.
1,929 reviews31 followers
August 23, 2012
The characters, seemed cooler and more reserved than usually found in a romance novel, and not so spiritual in their actions as described by their supposed character. Still an interesting plot with the usually unexpected twist found in fiction. Received free as a first read.
Profile Image for Audrey.
1,787 reviews81 followers
January 8, 2016
When Percy's uncle was on his deathbed he asked him to go on a secret mission. It took Percy several trips between Ireland and Wales to fulfill his uncle's dying request. It was a happy surprise when he fulfilled his commission. I loved the book. (That's all I'm saying!;)
Profile Image for Jessica.
604 reviews
August 30, 2012


This book at the end dragged for me. I was able to guess what would happen and figured out the connections long before the characters did. It was obvious to me, but apparently not to the characters. That was a bit disappointing, but I was still pleased in the overall story.
Profile Image for David Richardson.
788 reviews7 followers
November 3, 2012
I received this book for free from the Goodreads first-read giveaway. A good Christian romance with several mysteries written in. A really happy ending; even the asshole of the book gets it together and turns out alright.
392 reviews6 followers
July 26, 2016
Clean Christian book

I had a hard time with the characters but I don't have any negative feelings about the book, I just don't like stories told in the narrative used. This is a very good and talented and intelligent writer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

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