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The Lythiann Chronicles, #1
The Other of One: Book One
Told in true Seanchaí fashion, The Other of One is an Irish fantasy about a boy named William Muldoon who is summoned to a mythical world underground. The wondrous realm of Lythiann.
There he meets a community of Imps who are seeking refuge from a Wrythunn most foul, Drevol Briggun.
Being the reincarnation of the only other Wrythunn in existence who has the potential to confront Briggun's power, it is up to William to assassinate him. For not only is Lythiann under threat, but his own world is too...
There he meets a community of Imps who are seeking refuge from a Wrythunn most foul, Drevol Briggun.
Being the reincarnation of the only other Wrythunn in existence who has the potential to confront Briggun's power, it is up to William to assassinate him. For not only is Lythiann under threat, but his own world is too...
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First published February 24, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 29, 2014
The Other Of One is the first part of a new fantasy series from Irish debut author Brian G. Burke suitable for middle grade / early teens upwards. Set in Ireland, it tells the story of a young boy William Muldoon who finds himself unwittingly transported to a magical underground world, populated by all manner of strange and wonderful creatures called the Dwelvin Mites. He soon learns that his presence there is no coincidence and that he has been chosen to help them fight against an evil supernatural tyrant the Pooka, Drevol Briggun, a Wrythunn warrior who has driven them underground away from their beautiful home Lythiann.
William discovers that he is a reincarnation of the only other remaining Wrythunn, Mysun Margle and must find some way of channelling his powers and defeating Briggun or not only the Dwelvin Mites, but all those he loves will be destroyed.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story. Irish folklore tends to be a bit one-sided and tired, but Burke has done something wonderful here. The world he has created is a fantastic blend of traditional Irish folklore mixed with that of other cultures and those of his own imagination, populated by a veritable smorgasbord of magical and wondrous creatures. The landscapes are richly textured and intricately described, often beautiful, often dangerous, always wondrous. The sheer scale of the world the author has created is remarkable and it's a fitting playground for the saga that quickly unfolds.
What makes The Other Of One all the more enjoyable are the characters introduced to William as he makes his life-changing journey. I'll admit I cringed a little when a leprechaun made an appearance, but Burke does a great job of making even a tired Irish stereotype fresh and funny and as the tale progresses, each new character becomes as entertaining as the last. The dialogue is snappy and fun, serious when needed and poignant when least expected. Friendships are formed, loyalties tested and bravery is found in the most unlikely of places as William and his friends face all manner of peril on their quest.
The writing is impressive for a debut author, hugely imaginative, drawing from obvious sources like Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, J.K. Rowling and Lewis Carroll and while it may follow some of the conventions of the genre, it rapidly develops its own voice. Burke is clearly comfortable in the world he has crafted and portrays a confidence rarely seen in someone developing a narrative this ambitious. The pace rarely falters and builds nicely to the introduction of book two, which teases some epic events.
Currently available at only 99c/ £0.77p from Amazon, if mythical fantasy with a modern attitude is your bag, this book is an absolute steal. My only complaint is that it's worth ten times that.
William discovers that he is a reincarnation of the only other remaining Wrythunn, Mysun Margle and must find some way of channelling his powers and defeating Briggun or not only the Dwelvin Mites, but all those he loves will be destroyed.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story. Irish folklore tends to be a bit one-sided and tired, but Burke has done something wonderful here. The world he has created is a fantastic blend of traditional Irish folklore mixed with that of other cultures and those of his own imagination, populated by a veritable smorgasbord of magical and wondrous creatures. The landscapes are richly textured and intricately described, often beautiful, often dangerous, always wondrous. The sheer scale of the world the author has created is remarkable and it's a fitting playground for the saga that quickly unfolds.
What makes The Other Of One all the more enjoyable are the characters introduced to William as he makes his life-changing journey. I'll admit I cringed a little when a leprechaun made an appearance, but Burke does a great job of making even a tired Irish stereotype fresh and funny and as the tale progresses, each new character becomes as entertaining as the last. The dialogue is snappy and fun, serious when needed and poignant when least expected. Friendships are formed, loyalties tested and bravery is found in the most unlikely of places as William and his friends face all manner of peril on their quest.
The writing is impressive for a debut author, hugely imaginative, drawing from obvious sources like Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, J.K. Rowling and Lewis Carroll and while it may follow some of the conventions of the genre, it rapidly develops its own voice. Burke is clearly comfortable in the world he has crafted and portrays a confidence rarely seen in someone developing a narrative this ambitious. The pace rarely falters and builds nicely to the introduction of book two, which teases some epic events.
Currently available at only 99c/ £0.77p from Amazon, if mythical fantasy with a modern attitude is your bag, this book is an absolute steal. My only complaint is that it's worth ten times that.
September 1, 2014
The Other of One is an Irish folktale at first glance. The characters are traditional Irish lore. As the story progressed, many other cultures are deftly entwined in the story. The characters and the landscape are so detailed that I could almost feel the warmth of the first sunrise in Lythiann. Or smell the faint pine aroma in Grollo Halls. The journey of William to his final destination is not a straight journey and several unique friendship develop.
I will venture to say I am looking forward to continuing my journey with William and watching him grow and change. The Irish influence and folklore make this a fun read as many Irish folk are mischievous and have 2 aspects - one good and one not so good. Or evil and really not so evil. Even the landscape has a double aspect - the beauty but also the hidden dangers. Go William and find your true self!
I will venture to say I am looking forward to continuing my journey with William and watching him grow and change. The Irish influence and folklore make this a fun read as many Irish folk are mischievous and have 2 aspects - one good and one not so good. Or evil and really not so evil. Even the landscape has a double aspect - the beauty but also the hidden dangers. Go William and find your true self!
July 19, 2015
I had just finished re-reading The Hobbit when a friend suggested i read The Other Of One by Brian G Burke.
I read it on my Kindle and enjoyed the book so much that i contacted the author and bought it in paperback.It's a fantastic read set in the West of Ireland.Great story telling you just get caught up in the story and it was hard to put down.I enjoyed it so much and just finished book two.
I read it on my Kindle and enjoyed the book so much that i contacted the author and bought it in paperback.It's a fantastic read set in the West of Ireland.Great story telling you just get caught up in the story and it was hard to put down.I enjoyed it so much and just finished book two.
July 17, 2015
A very good read. Fantasy novel set in Ireland (more or less). the star of the show is William who is whisked off on an adventure to save the world. Despite the fact that the book is aimed at a younger audience i thoroughly enjoyed it, after all, The Hobbit is a "kids book" too.
December 24, 2014
Lord of the ring-ish.
Loved it! All of the characters are well written. I will read book two when it becomes available. Would recommend.
Loved it! All of the characters are well written. I will read book two when it becomes available. Would recommend.
September 13, 2014
The Other of One is a new book by an up and coming author, Brian G Burke. He takes a boy,and adds a bit of myth, magic, friendship and fantasy, to create a wonderful story.
A young boy, William Muldoon, is unexpectedly taken to a world he never dreamed existed. He meets characters of myth he had only read about, including a Grogoch, a tipsy Leprechaun, and a headless horseman. He has a journey to make to become the hero he was meant to be. He must become that hero to save the works he is in, and also the village he lives in, and his mother. Will be be able to fulfill his destiny?
This is a magical story of friendships made, loyalty and determination. It is told by an author with the soul of a story teller. He includes his reading audience in his story. Don't miss this wonderful new book. I am a book- aholic. I read and have read many books by new authors. If a book hasn't captured my attention within a chapter or two,I put it down. I didn't put this one down until I had finished it. Treat yourself, and get this great new book.
A young boy, William Muldoon, is unexpectedly taken to a world he never dreamed existed. He meets characters of myth he had only read about, including a Grogoch, a tipsy Leprechaun, and a headless horseman. He has a journey to make to become the hero he was meant to be. He must become that hero to save the works he is in, and also the village he lives in, and his mother. Will be be able to fulfill his destiny?
This is a magical story of friendships made, loyalty and determination. It is told by an author with the soul of a story teller. He includes his reading audience in his story. Don't miss this wonderful new book. I am a book- aholic. I read and have read many books by new authors. If a book hasn't captured my attention within a chapter or two,I put it down. I didn't put this one down until I had finished it. Treat yourself, and get this great new book.
February 2, 2015
Absolutely fantastic! If you've never heard a Seanchai tell a story then read this. Brian Burke includes the reader by breaking the fourth wall. I was a little apprehensive of this at first...but...guess what? It works! The characters are all loveable in their own little ways and the development is really well done. I like descriptive books too, so this one "did it" for me on every level. Book 2 should be out some time this year and I, for one, will be picking up a copy. Highly recommended! 5 stars.
April 3, 2015
Mesmerizing
I love the way it was told as if you were sitting at the knee of an elder listening to an old story by the fire..Seeing as Ireland is my one place I always want to visit this book was an amazing story.Folklore wrapped up in a nice package waiting for you to open it.The journey of young William is harrowing and strengthening in mind,body,soul..you can relate to it in an aspect of your own growing up without the band is misfits and dragons and such..I am awaiting the 2nd book to be able to read free hopefully soon..Great book..Good luck young William
I love the way it was told as if you were sitting at the knee of an elder listening to an old story by the fire..Seeing as Ireland is my one place I always want to visit this book was an amazing story.Folklore wrapped up in a nice package waiting for you to open it.The journey of young William is harrowing and strengthening in mind,body,soul..you can relate to it in an aspect of your own growing up without the band is misfits and dragons and such..I am awaiting the 2nd book to be able to read free hopefully soon..Great book..Good luck young William
August 7, 2015
Oh what a tale ... And it was truly that, a tale ! I felt like I was sitting around a campfire being told about a wounderful adventure! But What a Wonderful story ! I really never read anything like it before . But indeed it's very good and very unique ! I will follow William to the darkest of Lythiann, and walk beside him on this journey !
February 2, 2015
Lovely, lovely story. Adventure, horror, comedy, drama and friendship. This one ticked all the boxes for me. It took a few chapters to kick-off but that's about all the criticisms I can give it. Loved it.
February 5, 2015
Great story. The characters are totally original unlike anything I have seen before. I am looking forward to the finale.
May 7, 2023
It starts out like a children's story being cute and entertaining. Some parts seem too childish, but stay with it. There were some small parts that I skimmed, but at 74% the book gets more serious and I couldn't out it down.
This is by all means not a children's story. It is fun, imaginative and very well written. The world building is excellent!
This is about a 13 year old boy who falls into another world where he is expected by a magical and unusual host of people. He is to be the savior of this realm. He is told he is the reincarnation of Mysun a legendary warrior.
William (the hero) meets many friends and traveling companions who are quirky and lovable.
The book ends with William's completion of his intense training.
I am on book 2 now and can't put it down!
There is violence, mild cursing, and alcohol references. A potential romance or love interest is blooming between Wren & William.
This is by all means not a children's story. It is fun, imaginative and very well written. The world building is excellent!
This is about a 13 year old boy who falls into another world where he is expected by a magical and unusual host of people. He is to be the savior of this realm. He is told he is the reincarnation of Mysun a legendary warrior.
William (the hero) meets many friends and traveling companions who are quirky and lovable.
The book ends with William's completion of his intense training.
I am on book 2 now and can't put it down!
There is violence, mild cursing, and alcohol references. A potential romance or love interest is blooming between Wren & William.
March 3, 2017
Enjoying this series
The plot is very well brought about by the author. Plenty of information to get your teeth into. All the characters are well defined, part and parcel. I found this book a pleasure to read. I especially like when the author speaks to you, the reader. How fun is that to be put into the commentary. Sort of the way an actor turns to the camera and speaks directly to you. I am anxious to complete the series. I'm sure I won't be disappointed .
The plot is very well brought about by the author. Plenty of information to get your teeth into. All the characters are well defined, part and parcel. I found this book a pleasure to read. I especially like when the author speaks to you, the reader. How fun is that to be put into the commentary. Sort of the way an actor turns to the camera and speaks directly to you. I am anxious to complete the series. I'm sure I won't be disappointed .
June 7, 2018
Tis a wonderfully written fantasy adventure set within the rich realms of ancient Irish folklore!
Brian G. Burke’s literary skill is further enhanced by his obvious gift of the gab and his comedy sensibilities, along with tapping into the uniqueness of Irish mannerisms and the Craic!
By the way: a lot happens already in this first of three books saga.... lots of surprises!
Brian G. Burke’s literary skill is further enhanced by his obvious gift of the gab and his comedy sensibilities, along with tapping into the uniqueness of Irish mannerisms and the Craic!
By the way: a lot happens already in this first of three books saga.... lots of surprises!
June 9, 2017
Irish myth set in modern times. Lame attempt at Irish fantasy.
February 1, 2015
The good news is that I was able to finish it. The bad news is that it wasn't easy.
The book is told in a narrative fashion, which is unusual and provokes a distance between the characters and the reader. In this case, the narrator also talks down to the reader, treating the reader as somewhat stupid. Further, the narrator gives away things that are to happen further into the book. In addition, the narrator tells the reader what the characters are feeling or thinking rather than showing the reader through actions or responses. The phrases "he thought" or "he felt" or "he was surprised," and others like them are ubiquitous. Surprisingly, while talking down to the reader in terms of explaining things, the author also uses a very high level vocabulary that would make this difficult reading for a child.
The following are some of the most annoying passages I found in the book. To be fair, I didn't highlight any of my favorite passages. But to be even more fair, I don't think I had any favorite passages.
"'Is that...?"' he asked, uncertain of what he was seeing." Duh. When do people ask this question? Is it when they are certain or uncertain? This is what I mean by treating the reader as if they are stupid.
"...leaves plummeted and wafted through the air.." Excuse me, but leaves do not plummet unless you are on a heavy planet like Jupiter AND there is no atmosphere. Also, plummeting cannot be done simultaneously with wafting.
"Suddenly, the door continued to squeak and croak upon its hinges..." Things do not suddenly do things that they are continuing. Suddenly I continued to drive my car. See how nonsensical that is?
"...the sustaining pounding of thunder came visiting." I just can't parse this sentence to where it makes any sense. Maybe it is an Irishism, but it sure reads weirdly.
"...he would be one of William's greatest threats yet, had he known it then or not." This is what I mean about the narrator telling the reader what is going to happen later in the story. Also, William did not know it. Also, it's clear that an enemy is an enemy whether you know it or not so why doesn't the narrator feel the need to tell the reader this?
"You dare declare your risible decrees upon me, blind man?" Okay, maybe the Irish children use the phrase "risible decrees," but somehow I doubt it.
"...circling the boy in a tutor-like fashion." Again, maybe Irish teachers circle their pupils so that this sentence makes sense to them, otherwise it does not tell me anything since I have no idea what this implies.
"If it weren't for those great loitering clouds of a leaden pallor, the sun would've been shining gloriously over the jungle." WTF, this is essentially saying that if it weren't cloudy it would be sunny.
That's my summary of the book. If it still looks interesting to you, go for it.
The book is told in a narrative fashion, which is unusual and provokes a distance between the characters and the reader. In this case, the narrator also talks down to the reader, treating the reader as somewhat stupid. Further, the narrator gives away things that are to happen further into the book. In addition, the narrator tells the reader what the characters are feeling or thinking rather than showing the reader through actions or responses. The phrases "he thought" or "he felt" or "he was surprised," and others like them are ubiquitous. Surprisingly, while talking down to the reader in terms of explaining things, the author also uses a very high level vocabulary that would make this difficult reading for a child.
The following are some of the most annoying passages I found in the book. To be fair, I didn't highlight any of my favorite passages. But to be even more fair, I don't think I had any favorite passages.
"'Is that...?"' he asked, uncertain of what he was seeing." Duh. When do people ask this question? Is it when they are certain or uncertain? This is what I mean by treating the reader as if they are stupid.
"...leaves plummeted and wafted through the air.." Excuse me, but leaves do not plummet unless you are on a heavy planet like Jupiter AND there is no atmosphere. Also, plummeting cannot be done simultaneously with wafting.
"Suddenly, the door continued to squeak and croak upon its hinges..." Things do not suddenly do things that they are continuing. Suddenly I continued to drive my car. See how nonsensical that is?
"...the sustaining pounding of thunder came visiting." I just can't parse this sentence to where it makes any sense. Maybe it is an Irishism, but it sure reads weirdly.
"...he would be one of William's greatest threats yet, had he known it then or not." This is what I mean about the narrator telling the reader what is going to happen later in the story. Also, William did not know it. Also, it's clear that an enemy is an enemy whether you know it or not so why doesn't the narrator feel the need to tell the reader this?
"You dare declare your risible decrees upon me, blind man?" Okay, maybe the Irish children use the phrase "risible decrees," but somehow I doubt it.
"...circling the boy in a tutor-like fashion." Again, maybe Irish teachers circle their pupils so that this sentence makes sense to them, otherwise it does not tell me anything since I have no idea what this implies.
"If it weren't for those great loitering clouds of a leaden pallor, the sun would've been shining gloriously over the jungle." WTF, this is essentially saying that if it weren't cloudy it would be sunny.
That's my summary of the book. If it still looks interesting to you, go for it.
October 27, 2016
Absolutely loved this rollicking adventure, set in mythical Ireland. My kids liked the main character William and the different creatures he met up with on his quest. We meet imps, leprechauns and dragons as well as other creatures both evil and good.
William is learning to be the great warrior Mysun Margyle and how to defeat the evil Briggun who has darkened the land. He spends time learning to meditate and fight while the prophetical eclipse looms on the horizon.
A great read for all involved, my kids kept wanting to read more even though it was getting late. My only issue with this book is that I wish it was longer, other than that I'd recommend it to any reader out there who loves the mystical and mythical. Happy reading!
William is learning to be the great warrior Mysun Margyle and how to defeat the evil Briggun who has darkened the land. He spends time learning to meditate and fight while the prophetical eclipse looms on the horizon.
A great read for all involved, my kids kept wanting to read more even though it was getting late. My only issue with this book is that I wish it was longer, other than that I'd recommend it to any reader out there who loves the mystical and mythical. Happy reading!
May 31, 2015
A deceptively entertaining adventure
I have enjoyed this tale enormously. However, I discovered a story within the story. I will be spending much time contemplating Redmon's soliloquy. While counseling William, I can't help but feel that the author was trying to impart to those of us lucky enough to read this tale, a message of some importance. I felt a visceral connection with the characters and the author, that will remain with me for a long time.
I have enjoyed this tale enormously. However, I discovered a story within the story. I will be spending much time contemplating Redmon's soliloquy. While counseling William, I can't help but feel that the author was trying to impart to those of us lucky enough to read this tale, a message of some importance. I felt a visceral connection with the characters and the author, that will remain with me for a long time.
March 2, 2016
Spectacular story
I can remember my grandmother,from long years past,of reading books to me about all the Irish myths and legends.This book was a fantastic read. The author brought forth splendid realism,through his writing.story line was great,and it felt as if you were there,with William,on his journeys.I have book 2 on the burner and really look forward to beginning the journey again.Splendid book.
I can remember my grandmother,from long years past,of reading books to me about all the Irish myths and legends.This book was a fantastic read. The author brought forth splendid realism,through his writing.story line was great,and it felt as if you were there,with William,on his journeys.I have book 2 on the burner and really look forward to beginning the journey again.Splendid book.
May 29, 2015
Title Grabbed MY Attention
Good storytelling, interesting characters, creative other world.....including language. Strange combination of fairytale aspect with violence.... light summer read for me.
Good storytelling, interesting characters, creative other world.....including language. Strange combination of fairytale aspect with violence.... light summer read for me.
September 11, 2015
The story itself was quite interesting, but the telling of it felt off. I could not get fully invested in it despite it being exactly the kind of story I adore. I'm unsure whether I will read subsequent books.
May 8, 2016
Heavy read but well written
Although this book is well written I found it a very heavy read and I had a hard time staying with the book to finish it.
Although this book is well written I found it a very heavy read and I had a hard time staying with the book to finish it.
June 5, 2016
The Other One
Well written just not my type of book. If you believe in folklore, fairies, etc but not exactly D&D level then this is your book.
Well written just not my type of book. If you believe in folklore, fairies, etc but not exactly D&D level then this is your book.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews