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Queens of Éire
Undying
For fans of The Hurricane Wars and The Bridge Kingdom, Undying reimagines the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland but with ancient magic & twisted fairytale, and follows Rory, a disgraced princess cursed with the powers of the Morrígan, who returns from exile to free her motherland from foreign invaders as well as to exact vengeance on those who wronged her.
Rory Ó Conchúir has always known that she was destined for war. Her deadly gifts, the unwanted inheritance of her ancestor, the Mórrígan, can only be wielded as a weapon of destruction and doom. For years, she would not allow herself to be used as such, instead choosing to live far across the sea, refusing to regret what she has left behind in order to do so…until the fateful day that she learns of the price she has paid for her peace.
Niall Ó Flannagáin, the young king of Connacht, was never meant for war -- that has always been his half-sister, Rory's, role. But now he finds himself threatened with a foreign invasion and the ruination of the realm, without her aid. In desperation, he turns to a powerful enemy as an ally, his only hope to unite the provinces against the foreign armies gathering even now to destroy the land he has sworn to protect.
Locke MacMurchada, the son of the most hated traitor in all of Éire, owes a debt that he knows he can never pay. But when the opportunity to propose a political marriage with the murderous Rory Ó Conchúir arises, he seizes the chance to protect what is left of both his people, as well as the legacy which his father ripped to shreds…so long as she doesn’t kill him first.
When the day of doom at last arrives, the fates of all three royals - the cursed princess, the young king, and the traitor prince - become inextricably woven together, forcing them to face new threats and old enemies, hoping to forge a stronger Éire from the ashes of the old.
Rory Ó Conchúir has always known that she was destined for war. Her deadly gifts, the unwanted inheritance of her ancestor, the Mórrígan, can only be wielded as a weapon of destruction and doom. For years, she would not allow herself to be used as such, instead choosing to live far across the sea, refusing to regret what she has left behind in order to do so…until the fateful day that she learns of the price she has paid for her peace.
Niall Ó Flannagáin, the young king of Connacht, was never meant for war -- that has always been his half-sister, Rory's, role. But now he finds himself threatened with a foreign invasion and the ruination of the realm, without her aid. In desperation, he turns to a powerful enemy as an ally, his only hope to unite the provinces against the foreign armies gathering even now to destroy the land he has sworn to protect.
Locke MacMurchada, the son of the most hated traitor in all of Éire, owes a debt that he knows he can never pay. But when the opportunity to propose a political marriage with the murderous Rory Ó Conchúir arises, he seizes the chance to protect what is left of both his people, as well as the legacy which his father ripped to shreds…so long as she doesn’t kill him first.
When the day of doom at last arrives, the fates of all three royals - the cursed princess, the young king, and the traitor prince - become inextricably woven together, forcing them to face new threats and old enemies, hoping to forge a stronger Éire from the ashes of the old.
560 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2026
About the author
Christy Healy
4 books176 followersChristy Healy is the author of the adult fantasy novel, Unbound, and its companion novels, Unseen and Undying. She has been a lifelong reader and writer, weaving stories of her own into the myths and tales of the Celtic, Indo-European, and Greco-Roman worlds that she has loved for so long. She lives in North Carolina with her children, her dog, and her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 15, 2026
⚔️ “I myself am the only weapon that I will ever need ⚔️
What to expect🧐:
⚔️ Irish folklore inspired
⚔️ Morally gray FMC
⚔️ Complicated family dynamics
⚔️ Emotional deviation 😭
Many thanks to the author, Christy Healy, for providing me an eARC copy of Undying for review 🫶🏻
CHRISTYYYYYYYYY OMG YOU DID IT AGAIN YOU BEAUTIFUL WOMAN. Honestly, I didn’t know how you could’ve done a book that would upstage Unseen for me but gosh darn you did it.
I love a morally grey FMC and Healy has an art for creating them. Rory hooked me into the story from the jump. The use of multiple POVs and timelines really added some emotional backstory to Rory and Niall. And the slow burn romance?? *swoon* 😍
Now the ending…that was emotional warfare I was not prepared for. 😭 It hurt BAD, and yet I couldn’t imagine the story going any other way.
Healy has become one of my favorite indie authors for a reason, do yourself a favor and add this to your TBR.
What to expect🧐:
⚔️ Irish folklore inspired
⚔️ Morally gray FMC
⚔️ Complicated family dynamics
⚔️ Emotional deviation 😭
Many thanks to the author, Christy Healy, for providing me an eARC copy of Undying for review 🫶🏻
CHRISTYYYYYYYYY OMG YOU DID IT AGAIN YOU BEAUTIFUL WOMAN. Honestly, I didn’t know how you could’ve done a book that would upstage Unseen for me but gosh darn you did it.
I love a morally grey FMC and Healy has an art for creating them. Rory hooked me into the story from the jump. The use of multiple POVs and timelines really added some emotional backstory to Rory and Niall. And the slow burn romance?? *swoon* 😍
Now the ending…that was emotional warfare I was not prepared for. 😭 It hurt BAD, and yet I couldn’t imagine the story going any other way.
Healy has become one of my favorite indie authors for a reason, do yourself a favor and add this to your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Undying by Christy Healy has easily earned a place in my top 10 books of all time. I was fortunate enough to receive an early copy, but this review reflects my genuine thoughts on the story itself.
From the very first chapter, I was completely immersed. The story is intricate, emotionally powerful, and exceptionally well executed. Through multiple timelines and the perspectives of Rory, Finn, and Locke, Healy crafts a rich narrative filled with grief, vengeance, loyalty, war, and love.
Rory – The Cold One
Rory was undoubtedly my favourite character to follow. We are introduced to a woman who has spent her entire life surviving impossible circumstances, carrying guilt, grief, and an overwhelming desire for revenge.
From the very beginning, Healy establishes Rory’s ruthless determination:
“She was supposed to kiss him, but alas for him—after all, she was a fantastic kisser—killing him seemed a far pleasanter endeavor.”
What struck me most about Rory was how deeply human she felt despite her fearsome reputation. Her memories of her brother Niall and the promise she believes she failed to keep shape so much of her character. The pain of that loss follows her throughout the novel, making every decision she takes feel meaningful and emotionally charged. Much of that comes from her relationship with her brother, Niall, whose loss continues to haunt her throughout the story.
“Niall, the brother whom she had protected, had loved, more fiercely and more fervently than she had believed herself capable of loving anyone or anything. Niall, her almost-twin. Her friend.”
The grief, guilt, and love she carries for him shape so many of her choices, and those emotions made her one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve read this year.
Learning about her past directly through her perspective made me feel incredibly connected to her. Every heartbreak, every moment of rage, and every flicker of hope felt real.
Finn – The Warrior
Finn quickly became one of my favourite characters. His loyalty is almost unbelievable, yet it never feels unrealistic because of how much he genuinely cares for Rory and his homeland.
From the beginning, he serves as a source of support and stability, often helping Rory through her darkest moments.
Beneath his kindness is a fierce determination to fight for Éire and reclaim what has been stolen from its people.
One of my favourite moments from Finn’s perspective perfectly captures his determination and unwavering belief:
“Do not despair. Do not yield.”
Despite everything he faces, Finn never stops fighting for a better future, which made him incredibly easy to root for throughout the novel.
Locke, Lord of Mischief
Locke brought so much entertainment to the story. He is clever, witty, manipulative, and endlessly entertaining whenever he appears on the page.
His forced marriage alliance with Rory creates one of the most compelling dynamics in the novel. They begin as enemies united only by their shared desire for revenge and power, constantly questioning each other’s motives and intentions.
One of my favourite aspects of their relationship is how clearly Rory tries to convince herself that Locke means nothing to her:
“He was her enemy, a tool to be used and then discarded, an inconsequential rung on the ladder that led to her revenge…”
What I loved most was the contrast between their mistrust and their effectiveness as partners. While they rarely trust one another, they fight together seamlessly when it matters most.
Watching their relationship evolve from reluctant allies to something much deeper was one of the highlights of the book.
Healy manages to give readers the beginning of a love story while simultaneously showing the many ways it could fail before it has even properly begun.
Aoife, The Cailleach
Aoife is a fascinating antagonist. Her actions set many of the story’s tragedies into motion, and her influence stretches across generations.
Every time she appeared, I felt tense because she is constantly plotting, manipulating, and working toward her own goals. What makes her especially compelling is how persistent she is; even when her plans are disrupted, she finds another path forward.
Her connection to Niall, his son, and the larger conflict creates some of the novel’s most emotional and heartbreaking moments.
The Wars of Éire
The backdrop of war adds significant weight to the story. The struggle to free Éire from Albion’s rule affects every character and every relationship.
One of the most powerful aspects of the novel is seeing how past failures, sacrifices, and betrayals shape the present conflict. The war is never just a backdrop—it feels personal because of what each character stands to lose.
The themes of unity, resistance, sacrifice, and hope are woven beautifully throughout the narrative, making the final battles incredibly satisfying and emotional.
Final Thoughts
Undying is an incredibly well-structured novel filled with complex characters, rich world-building, emotional depth, and unforgettable relationships. The backstories are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, the history of the land feels fully realized, and every character’s motivations are carefully developed.
This may be a standalone story, but it is also the third book in the Queens of Éire series. The first two books, Unseen and Unbound, are already on my TBR because Undying left me wanting to spend more time in this world.
If you enjoy fantasy filled with political intrigue, morally grey characters, revenge, found family, emotional character arcs, and slow-burning romance, I cannot recommend Undying enough.
From the very first chapter, I was completely immersed. The story is intricate, emotionally powerful, and exceptionally well executed. Through multiple timelines and the perspectives of Rory, Finn, and Locke, Healy crafts a rich narrative filled with grief, vengeance, loyalty, war, and love.
Rory – The Cold One
Rory was undoubtedly my favourite character to follow. We are introduced to a woman who has spent her entire life surviving impossible circumstances, carrying guilt, grief, and an overwhelming desire for revenge.
From the very beginning, Healy establishes Rory’s ruthless determination:
“She was supposed to kiss him, but alas for him—after all, she was a fantastic kisser—killing him seemed a far pleasanter endeavor.”
What struck me most about Rory was how deeply human she felt despite her fearsome reputation. Her memories of her brother Niall and the promise she believes she failed to keep shape so much of her character. The pain of that loss follows her throughout the novel, making every decision she takes feel meaningful and emotionally charged. Much of that comes from her relationship with her brother, Niall, whose loss continues to haunt her throughout the story.
“Niall, the brother whom she had protected, had loved, more fiercely and more fervently than she had believed herself capable of loving anyone or anything. Niall, her almost-twin. Her friend.”
The grief, guilt, and love she carries for him shape so many of her choices, and those emotions made her one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve read this year.
Learning about her past directly through her perspective made me feel incredibly connected to her. Every heartbreak, every moment of rage, and every flicker of hope felt real.
Finn – The Warrior
Finn quickly became one of my favourite characters. His loyalty is almost unbelievable, yet it never feels unrealistic because of how much he genuinely cares for Rory and his homeland.
From the beginning, he serves as a source of support and stability, often helping Rory through her darkest moments.
Beneath his kindness is a fierce determination to fight for Éire and reclaim what has been stolen from its people.
One of my favourite moments from Finn’s perspective perfectly captures his determination and unwavering belief:
“Do not despair. Do not yield.”
Despite everything he faces, Finn never stops fighting for a better future, which made him incredibly easy to root for throughout the novel.
Locke, Lord of Mischief
Locke brought so much entertainment to the story. He is clever, witty, manipulative, and endlessly entertaining whenever he appears on the page.
His forced marriage alliance with Rory creates one of the most compelling dynamics in the novel. They begin as enemies united only by their shared desire for revenge and power, constantly questioning each other’s motives and intentions.
One of my favourite aspects of their relationship is how clearly Rory tries to convince herself that Locke means nothing to her:
“He was her enemy, a tool to be used and then discarded, an inconsequential rung on the ladder that led to her revenge…”
What I loved most was the contrast between their mistrust and their effectiveness as partners. While they rarely trust one another, they fight together seamlessly when it matters most.
Watching their relationship evolve from reluctant allies to something much deeper was one of the highlights of the book.
Healy manages to give readers the beginning of a love story while simultaneously showing the many ways it could fail before it has even properly begun.
Aoife, The Cailleach
Aoife is a fascinating antagonist. Her actions set many of the story’s tragedies into motion, and her influence stretches across generations.
Every time she appeared, I felt tense because she is constantly plotting, manipulating, and working toward her own goals. What makes her especially compelling is how persistent she is; even when her plans are disrupted, she finds another path forward.
Her connection to Niall, his son, and the larger conflict creates some of the novel’s most emotional and heartbreaking moments.
The Wars of Éire
The backdrop of war adds significant weight to the story. The struggle to free Éire from Albion’s rule affects every character and every relationship.
One of the most powerful aspects of the novel is seeing how past failures, sacrifices, and betrayals shape the present conflict. The war is never just a backdrop—it feels personal because of what each character stands to lose.
The themes of unity, resistance, sacrifice, and hope are woven beautifully throughout the narrative, making the final battles incredibly satisfying and emotional.
Final Thoughts
Undying is an incredibly well-structured novel filled with complex characters, rich world-building, emotional depth, and unforgettable relationships. The backstories are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, the history of the land feels fully realized, and every character’s motivations are carefully developed.
This may be a standalone story, but it is also the third book in the Queens of Éire series. The first two books, Unseen and Unbound, are already on my TBR because Undying left me wanting to spend more time in this world.
If you enjoy fantasy filled with political intrigue, morally grey characters, revenge, found family, emotional character arcs, and slow-burning romance, I cannot recommend Undying enough.
March 18, 2026
With each book in this series, the story just got better and made you want more. Christy knows how to write a FMC that you root for even though most would consider her the “villain” in other books. The way she interconnects these 3 books, yet they could be read as a standalone is just perfection.
If you love Irish mythology, twisted Hansel and Gretel vibes, morally grey FMC, and forced marriage of bitter enemies….then hit that preorder button! If you haven’t read the first 2, then go ahead and toss those into your cart as well! If you ever ask me for a book recommendation, hers will forever be the first ones I name….heck I’ll probably just recommend them even if you didn’t ask me 🤣🤷🏽♀️
If you love Irish mythology, twisted Hansel and Gretel vibes, morally grey FMC, and forced marriage of bitter enemies….then hit that preorder button! If you haven’t read the first 2, then go ahead and toss those into your cart as well! If you ever ask me for a book recommendation, hers will forever be the first ones I name….heck I’ll probably just recommend them even if you didn’t ask me 🤣🤷🏽♀️
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the very first few sentences, Undying gave me yet another reason to fall in love with this author’s female main characters. There’s something so immediate and compelling about the way she writes women — strong without feeling untouchable, layered without losing emotional authenticity. I was invested almost instantly.
One thing I continue to appreciate about these interconnected standalones is the use of multiple POVs. It keeps the story dynamic and immersive without ever becoming overwhelming, and because each book stands so well on its own, I never feel pressured to remember every tiny detail from previous installments in order to fully enjoy the experience. Seeing familiar characters from earlier books appear here was such a treat, even as someone who still hasn’t read book two yet.
The family dynamics in this story were especially fascinating. The twin/half-sister relationship added such an interesting emotional layer.
The dialogue between Locke and Rory in the earlier chapters flowed beautifully. This author consistently writes conversations that feel natural while still carrying emotional weight, and it’s one of the reasons I keep coming back to her work.
There are also so many lines in this book that genuinely linger. “I myself am the only weapon that I will ever need” is such a striking quote, and exactly the kind of line I immediately highlight. The prose throughout the novel feels rich without ever becoming excessive.
The dual timelines were another standout aspect for me. They’re woven together with incredible precision, revealing information at exactly the right moments. Every reveal feels intentional, and the structure itself adds so much tension and emotional payoff. On top of that, I loved the stories within the story — the incorporation of Irish mythology made the world feel even richer, and I constantly found myself wanting to research more as I read.
What starts as emotionally engaging quickly becomes devastating. This book turns heartbreaking and brutal so fast, and the emotional damage is real. I sobbed at only 45% through because Niall and Molly absolutely shattered me. Young Niall in particular was impossible not to love, which only made everything hurt more. It’s also incredibly important to pay attention to the chapter dates because the timeline details matter so much to the emotional reveals.
The losses in this story hit hard. The way the author handles death reminded me of Game of Thrones in the best and worst way possible — beloved characters die anyway. There’s no narrative protection here. The author made some brutally bold decisions, and while painful, they reinforced one of the novel’s strongest themes: not every ending gets to be happy, and loss is unavoidable no matter how much we love these characters.
Despite all the grief, this book still manages to be deeply romantic. Somehow a line like “They’re all very dead now” followed by “thanks to my murderous wife” became weirdly romantic, which honestly says everything about the tone of this series. And after all the heartbreak, I was still desperately hoping Locke would choose her.
By the end, one quote completely destroyed me: “You and I throughout the years of whatever time is left to us and whatever magic we might make together.” That is genuinely one of the most romantic lines I’ve ever read.
Undying is emotional, violent, beautifully written, and completely consuming. It’s the kind of story that hurts you repeatedly while still making you grateful you read it.
You'll love this book, and the entire series.
One thing I continue to appreciate about these interconnected standalones is the use of multiple POVs. It keeps the story dynamic and immersive without ever becoming overwhelming, and because each book stands so well on its own, I never feel pressured to remember every tiny detail from previous installments in order to fully enjoy the experience. Seeing familiar characters from earlier books appear here was such a treat, even as someone who still hasn’t read book two yet.
The family dynamics in this story were especially fascinating. The twin/half-sister relationship added such an interesting emotional layer.
The dialogue between Locke and Rory in the earlier chapters flowed beautifully. This author consistently writes conversations that feel natural while still carrying emotional weight, and it’s one of the reasons I keep coming back to her work.
There are also so many lines in this book that genuinely linger. “I myself am the only weapon that I will ever need” is such a striking quote, and exactly the kind of line I immediately highlight. The prose throughout the novel feels rich without ever becoming excessive.
The dual timelines were another standout aspect for me. They’re woven together with incredible precision, revealing information at exactly the right moments. Every reveal feels intentional, and the structure itself adds so much tension and emotional payoff. On top of that, I loved the stories within the story — the incorporation of Irish mythology made the world feel even richer, and I constantly found myself wanting to research more as I read.
What starts as emotionally engaging quickly becomes devastating. This book turns heartbreaking and brutal so fast, and the emotional damage is real. I sobbed at only 45% through because Niall and Molly absolutely shattered me. Young Niall in particular was impossible not to love, which only made everything hurt more. It’s also incredibly important to pay attention to the chapter dates because the timeline details matter so much to the emotional reveals.
The losses in this story hit hard. The way the author handles death reminded me of Game of Thrones in the best and worst way possible — beloved characters die anyway. There’s no narrative protection here. The author made some brutally bold decisions, and while painful, they reinforced one of the novel’s strongest themes: not every ending gets to be happy, and loss is unavoidable no matter how much we love these characters.
Despite all the grief, this book still manages to be deeply romantic. Somehow a line like “They’re all very dead now” followed by “thanks to my murderous wife” became weirdly romantic, which honestly says everything about the tone of this series. And after all the heartbreak, I was still desperately hoping Locke would choose her.
By the end, one quote completely destroyed me: “You and I throughout the years of whatever time is left to us and whatever magic we might make together.” That is genuinely one of the most romantic lines I’ve ever read.
Undying is emotional, violent, beautifully written, and completely consuming. It’s the kind of story that hurts you repeatedly while still making you grateful you read it.
You'll love this book, and the entire series.
Review of advance copy
Undying by Christy Healy
I was incredibly fortunate to receive an ARC copy of this book. Thank you to WhimsyWordsPr & Christy Healy.
The first sentence had me clutching my pearls! Excuse me!? The author does not mess about and packs a punch right from the start, and you know exactly where you stand with the FMC, and I LOVE HER. I was hooked immediately, desperate to know more, and absolutely ate this book up.
Rory is a dark and twisty individual who is relentless and ruthless in her actions, but a sympathetic character all the same, and we follow her story through the eyes of an eclectic cast of characters. I found myself reading through Chronic Fatigue crashes, desperate to learn more because I was so absorbed in the story, and the characters; I have become OBSESSED. There was nothing slow about the start of this book; it throws you immediately into chaos, and you spend the rest of the book being fed this rich, intricate tale woven through past and present moments, and reimagined history with gorgeous folkloric heroes throughout. I found myself gripping my Kindle so tight during action sequences that I would audibly gasp and choke back tears in some of the more emotional moments, of which there are plenty! Some of the characters I loved to hate, and some I grew to love with time as their motives and personalities deepened and unravelled.
This is a story of redemption, love and loss beautifully encapsulated in Celtic folklore and myth. Christy has an incredible way of making you feel like you’re right there with harrowing, vivid descriptions of action and often subtle lyrical poetry that describe her character's feelings. I felt all the things reading this book from horror and panic, to sadness and amusement, love and relief: I felt a LOT, and it was like a rollercoaster I didn’t want to get off. Every single minute was a pleasure, in some of the worst ways, and my favourite book of 2026 so far!
I am thoroughly enamoured, and I have already bought all 3 from the series for my Kindle, because I need more of this world. I know they are standalone stories, but there is a connection, and I am not ready to give up this world just yet. In addition, I have been screaming across the internet to anyone who will listen to pick this up and DEVOUR it as I have.
This was without a doubt a 6-star read for me - swept right past my 5 stars and will live rent-free in my brain forever.
Celtic Folklore/Myth
Horror
Mystery/Hidden Truths
Magic
Slow Burn Romance
Trauma/Grief/Loss
Betrayal
Love/Romance
#Undying #WhimsyWordsPr #ARC #bookreview #darkfantasy #romance #fantasy #horror #celticfolklore
I was incredibly fortunate to receive an ARC copy of this book. Thank you to WhimsyWordsPr & Christy Healy.
The first sentence had me clutching my pearls! Excuse me!? The author does not mess about and packs a punch right from the start, and you know exactly where you stand with the FMC, and I LOVE HER. I was hooked immediately, desperate to know more, and absolutely ate this book up.
Rory is a dark and twisty individual who is relentless and ruthless in her actions, but a sympathetic character all the same, and we follow her story through the eyes of an eclectic cast of characters. I found myself reading through Chronic Fatigue crashes, desperate to learn more because I was so absorbed in the story, and the characters; I have become OBSESSED. There was nothing slow about the start of this book; it throws you immediately into chaos, and you spend the rest of the book being fed this rich, intricate tale woven through past and present moments, and reimagined history with gorgeous folkloric heroes throughout. I found myself gripping my Kindle so tight during action sequences that I would audibly gasp and choke back tears in some of the more emotional moments, of which there are plenty! Some of the characters I loved to hate, and some I grew to love with time as their motives and personalities deepened and unravelled.
This is a story of redemption, love and loss beautifully encapsulated in Celtic folklore and myth. Christy has an incredible way of making you feel like you’re right there with harrowing, vivid descriptions of action and often subtle lyrical poetry that describe her character's feelings. I felt all the things reading this book from horror and panic, to sadness and amusement, love and relief: I felt a LOT, and it was like a rollercoaster I didn’t want to get off. Every single minute was a pleasure, in some of the worst ways, and my favourite book of 2026 so far!
I am thoroughly enamoured, and I have already bought all 3 from the series for my Kindle, because I need more of this world. I know they are standalone stories, but there is a connection, and I am not ready to give up this world just yet. In addition, I have been screaming across the internet to anyone who will listen to pick this up and DEVOUR it as I have.
This was without a doubt a 6-star read for me - swept right past my 5 stars and will live rent-free in my brain forever.
Celtic Folklore/Myth
Horror
Mystery/Hidden Truths
Magic
Slow Burn Romance
Trauma/Grief/Loss
Betrayal
Love/Romance
#Undying #WhimsyWordsPr #ARC #bookreview #darkfantasy #romance #fantasy #horror #celticfolklore
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
From the moment I picked up Undying, I knew it was something special. The magic, the folklore, and the characters pulled me in almost immediately. I loved sweet, sunshiny Niall from the opening chapters, particularly contrasted against Rory's brooding, dark intensity, and later found myself equally invested in Locke, Finn, Dil and Failinis. I was completely enraptured from beginning to end.
One of the book's greatest strengths is the way Christy Healy weaves Irish history, folklore, and mythology into the story. The historical elements never felt like background dressing; they were deeply embedded in the narrative, creating a world that felt rich, authentic, and visceral. The twists and revelations unfolded beautifully, and I found myself utterly enthralled by where the story was heading.
The romance was such a breath of fresh air that I was completely gripped by its development because it felt so crucial to the story's emotional core. Really, this is a book deeply entrenched in the intricacies of relationships, and the romance is no exception. Rather than relying on instant attraction, the relationship between Locke and Rory develops organically through shared experiences, trauma, and a steadily growing emotional connection. The payoff felt all the more satisfying because it was earned, adding another layer of depth to an already compelling story. What I particularly appreciated was that, while the physical aspects of their relationship developed relatively quickly, it was the fragile emotional bond growing between them that felt most important. That was where the real heart of the romance lay.
There is so much atmosphere in Christy's writing. The way scenes unfold and characters interact feels almost lyrical at times without becoming overwrought, and the combination of lush landscapes, ancient magic, and looming conflict created an incredibly immersive reading experience. The destructive power of the magic and its promise of devastation felt genuinely foreboding throughout the novel. while the backdrop of Éire had me vividly picturing Ireland in a way few fantasy settings manage..
As someone who loves epic fantasy audiobooks, I couldn't stop thinking about how incredible this would be in audio format. The rhythm of the writing, the rich descriptions, and the mythology all seem perfectly suited to being read aloud.
I rarely pay much attention to author notes or glossaries, but I devoured every page of this book, including those. I finished Undying wanting to immediately pick up the previous two books, which is probably the highest compliment I can give. I can't wait to go back and read the rest of the trilogy.
One of the book's greatest strengths is the way Christy Healy weaves Irish history, folklore, and mythology into the story. The historical elements never felt like background dressing; they were deeply embedded in the narrative, creating a world that felt rich, authentic, and visceral. The twists and revelations unfolded beautifully, and I found myself utterly enthralled by where the story was heading.
The romance was such a breath of fresh air that I was completely gripped by its development because it felt so crucial to the story's emotional core. Really, this is a book deeply entrenched in the intricacies of relationships, and the romance is no exception. Rather than relying on instant attraction, the relationship between Locke and Rory develops organically through shared experiences, trauma, and a steadily growing emotional connection. The payoff felt all the more satisfying because it was earned, adding another layer of depth to an already compelling story. What I particularly appreciated was that, while the physical aspects of their relationship developed relatively quickly, it was the fragile emotional bond growing between them that felt most important. That was where the real heart of the romance lay.
There is so much atmosphere in Christy's writing. The way scenes unfold and characters interact feels almost lyrical at times without becoming overwrought, and the combination of lush landscapes, ancient magic, and looming conflict created an incredibly immersive reading experience. The destructive power of the magic and its promise of devastation felt genuinely foreboding throughout the novel. while the backdrop of Éire had me vividly picturing Ireland in a way few fantasy settings manage..
As someone who loves epic fantasy audiobooks, I couldn't stop thinking about how incredible this would be in audio format. The rhythm of the writing, the rich descriptions, and the mythology all seem perfectly suited to being read aloud.
I rarely pay much attention to author notes or glossaries, but I devoured every page of this book, including those. I finished Undying wanting to immediately pick up the previous two books, which is probably the highest compliment I can give. I can't wait to go back and read the rest of the trilogy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Although Undying can be read as a standalone, I really enjoyed the nods back to Unbound and Unseen. Having read the previous books, those connections gave me a deeper understanding of the land, its history, and the characters who inhabit it.
I loved the dynamic between Rory and Locke. Their strange, against-all-odds bond was one of my favourite parts of the book, especially as everything around them seemed determined to work against them. Rory’s relationship with her brother Niall was also such a beautiful element of the story, adding real emotional depth and showing the complexity beneath the way others see her.
Rory was a fantastic and fierce FMC, which came as no surprise after reading Unbound and Unseen and already knowing how brilliantly Christy Healy crafts her female leads. Despite their shared strength and fierceness, each heroine in this series feels distinct, with her own personality, struggles, and story.
I also really enjoyed Rory’s companion, Finn, and the dynamic they shared. Learning more about how their paths crossed added another layer to the story, and I found those revelations so interesting.
And Locke — what can I say except that I loved him from the first page he appeared. His wit, banter, and presence completely won me over, and I couldn’t get enough of him.
I really enjoyed the structure of the book too, especially the way it moved between different POVs and points in time. It made the story feel layered and rewarding, and I already know this is one I’ll want to reread so I can spot all the hints and details woven in before the bigger reveals.
I thought it was amazing how Christy Healy reimagines the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland through a mythological fantasy lens, weaving history together with the influence of the Tuatha Dé Danann. It added another layer of depth to the story and made me want to look further into the history and inspiration behind it.
Overall, Undying was a brilliant, emotional, and compelling read. A fierce heroine, sharp banter, emotional sibling bonds, layered storytelling, and a world that continues to grow richer with each book.
I loved the dynamic between Rory and Locke. Their strange, against-all-odds bond was one of my favourite parts of the book, especially as everything around them seemed determined to work against them. Rory’s relationship with her brother Niall was also such a beautiful element of the story, adding real emotional depth and showing the complexity beneath the way others see her.
Rory was a fantastic and fierce FMC, which came as no surprise after reading Unbound and Unseen and already knowing how brilliantly Christy Healy crafts her female leads. Despite their shared strength and fierceness, each heroine in this series feels distinct, with her own personality, struggles, and story.
I also really enjoyed Rory’s companion, Finn, and the dynamic they shared. Learning more about how their paths crossed added another layer to the story, and I found those revelations so interesting.
And Locke — what can I say except that I loved him from the first page he appeared. His wit, banter, and presence completely won me over, and I couldn’t get enough of him.
I really enjoyed the structure of the book too, especially the way it moved between different POVs and points in time. It made the story feel layered and rewarding, and I already know this is one I’ll want to reread so I can spot all the hints and details woven in before the bigger reveals.
I thought it was amazing how Christy Healy reimagines the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland through a mythological fantasy lens, weaving history together with the influence of the Tuatha Dé Danann. It added another layer of depth to the story and made me want to look further into the history and inspiration behind it.
Overall, Undying was a brilliant, emotional, and compelling read. A fierce heroine, sharp banter, emotional sibling bonds, layered storytelling, and a world that continues to grow richer with each book.
June 17, 2026
I was a little apprehensive when I started this book. Book three in a series when I haven't read any of the previous books in the series, a lot of non-English words/names, time skips. Individually none of these would generally give me pause, but all of them together at a time where I wasn't sure if I had the brainpower to really devote to the book at the time made me nervous and I was fully prepared to potentially just put the book down and come back to it later rather than forcing myself through if it proved to much.
Instead, once I truly began focusing on reading it, I could hardly put it down and finished in days. None of the things I was worried about caused any issues for me and I very quickly became highly invested in these characters.
Christy Healy tells a wonderful story and creates great characters. I absolutely loved Rory and Locke. Their strengths and weaknesses, their lies and their hopes. They both felt so real and genuine.
I didn't quite buy into their romance though, at least not the falling in love. I enjoyed it and loved them together, loved the the anguish of 'does he/she feel the same way I do?', and loved the deep need both of them felt to protect the other, but I didn't see how they really ever got to that point from where they started when both of them simply wanted to use the other.
What I did fully believe however, was the familial relationships that existed. Niall's and Rory's bond as siblings might be my favourite thing ever. And Rory's guilt throughout the series for her failings and Naill's constant belief in his sister filled me with such delight and sadness.
The plot was really well done. Very interesting and I think built up with the events of the past and present in a way that kept me very engaged but never overwhelmed with the amount of information we were receiving.
Really looking forward to picking up the other books in the series and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for future works by Christy Healy.
I received an eARC of this book through NetGalley.
Instead, once I truly began focusing on reading it, I could hardly put it down and finished in days. None of the things I was worried about caused any issues for me and I very quickly became highly invested in these characters.
Christy Healy tells a wonderful story and creates great characters. I absolutely loved Rory and Locke. Their strengths and weaknesses, their lies and their hopes. They both felt so real and genuine.
I didn't quite buy into their romance though, at least not the falling in love. I enjoyed it and loved them together, loved the the anguish of 'does he/she feel the same way I do?', and loved the deep need both of them felt to protect the other, but I didn't see how they really ever got to that point from where they started when both of them simply wanted to use the other.
What I did fully believe however, was the familial relationships that existed. Niall's and Rory's bond as siblings might be my favourite thing ever. And Rory's guilt throughout the series for her failings and Naill's constant belief in his sister filled me with such delight and sadness.
The plot was really well done. Very interesting and I think built up with the events of the past and present in a way that kept me very engaged but never overwhelmed with the amount of information we were receiving.
Really looking forward to picking up the other books in the series and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for future works by Christy Healy.
I received an eARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review of advance copy
Undying by Christy Healy - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much to @whimsywordspr and Christy Healy for the eARC!
Undying by Christy Healy is a beautifully layered blend of Irish history, folklore, family loyalty, and slow-burning romance wrapped in shadows, mystery, and heartbreak.
From the very first sentence, you know exactly what you’re getting with the FMC Rory— wild, complicated, fiercely protective, vengeful— and I was HOOKED. Steeped in the atmosphere of old fairytales and historic Ireland, this story pulls readers into a world filled with witches, ancient secrets, enemies-to-lovers tension, and deeply rooted family bonds.
The flashbacks to childhood add emotional depth and richness to the characters, making their journeys feel personal, haunting, and unforgettable.The historical elements are woven seamlessly throughout the story, creating vivid portrayals that feel authentic and immersive. Every character carries emotional weight, but— as a protective sibling myself— the unwavering loyalty between brother and sister stands out as one of the novel's strongest and most touching threads.
The romance unfolds with a delicious slow burn, building steadily through tension, conflict, and emotional connection rather than rushing toward passion. Combined with the darker undertones of shadows and magic, it creates a story that feels both intimate and epic. Rich in atmosphere, history, emotion, and folklore, Undying is the perfect read for lovers of historical fantasy, Irish legends, and romances that simmer beneath the surface long before they ignite.
If you love Irish mythology, twisted Hansel and Gretel vibes, morally grey FMC, and forced marriage of bitter enemies....then hit that preorder button! If you haven't read the first 2– which, alas I have not, but definitely will now!— then go ahead and toss those into your cart as well. This is definitely a world I’ll be coming back to again and again!
Thank you so much to @whimsywordspr and Christy Healy for the eARC!
Undying by Christy Healy is a beautifully layered blend of Irish history, folklore, family loyalty, and slow-burning romance wrapped in shadows, mystery, and heartbreak.
From the very first sentence, you know exactly what you’re getting with the FMC Rory— wild, complicated, fiercely protective, vengeful— and I was HOOKED. Steeped in the atmosphere of old fairytales and historic Ireland, this story pulls readers into a world filled with witches, ancient secrets, enemies-to-lovers tension, and deeply rooted family bonds.
The flashbacks to childhood add emotional depth and richness to the characters, making their journeys feel personal, haunting, and unforgettable.The historical elements are woven seamlessly throughout the story, creating vivid portrayals that feel authentic and immersive. Every character carries emotional weight, but— as a protective sibling myself— the unwavering loyalty between brother and sister stands out as one of the novel's strongest and most touching threads.
The romance unfolds with a delicious slow burn, building steadily through tension, conflict, and emotional connection rather than rushing toward passion. Combined with the darker undertones of shadows and magic, it creates a story that feels both intimate and epic. Rich in atmosphere, history, emotion, and folklore, Undying is the perfect read for lovers of historical fantasy, Irish legends, and romances that simmer beneath the surface long before they ignite.
If you love Irish mythology, twisted Hansel and Gretel vibes, morally grey FMC, and forced marriage of bitter enemies....then hit that preorder button! If you haven't read the first 2– which, alas I have not, but definitely will now!— then go ahead and toss those into your cart as well. This is definitely a world I’ll be coming back to again and again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Whimsy Word PR and the author Christy Healy.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Emotions: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Firstly I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Whimsy Word and Christy Healy for allowing me the opportunity to read and ARC of Undying.
I’ve really had to take a few moments before writing this review to try and gather my thoughts and emotions as I was not prepared for how it would leave me feeling.
Undying is an exquisitely written book that somehow effortlessly combines Irish history, folklore, slow-burning romance, mystery, family loyalty with heartbreak.
Christy was able to immerse me in a magical atmospheric world which at times felt like reading a story from time long gone. The ancient secrets, the witches and the constant building tension gave deeper layers to the magic.
The standout in this book is how hauntingly Christy is able to write the grief and loss within the story. When I tell you it hits hard, it its HARD. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone but be prepared (I was not) There is no protection by way of narration in this story and at times it feels absolutely brutal. But after some much needed processing time I realised it was needed to keep within the woven themes in Undying that not every story gets it happily ever after.
In summary I feel that Undying is a truly emotion evoking and exquisitely written book that is guaranteed to completely consume you until you have to part ways with it.
It’s a story that’s going to haunt you while feeling thankful to have read it.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Emotions: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Firstly I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Whimsy Word and Christy Healy for allowing me the opportunity to read and ARC of Undying.
I’ve really had to take a few moments before writing this review to try and gather my thoughts and emotions as I was not prepared for how it would leave me feeling.
Undying is an exquisitely written book that somehow effortlessly combines Irish history, folklore, slow-burning romance, mystery, family loyalty with heartbreak.
Christy was able to immerse me in a magical atmospheric world which at times felt like reading a story from time long gone. The ancient secrets, the witches and the constant building tension gave deeper layers to the magic.
The standout in this book is how hauntingly Christy is able to write the grief and loss within the story. When I tell you it hits hard, it its HARD. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone but be prepared (I was not) There is no protection by way of narration in this story and at times it feels absolutely brutal. But after some much needed processing time I realised it was needed to keep within the woven themes in Undying that not every story gets it happily ever after.
In summary I feel that Undying is a truly emotion evoking and exquisitely written book that is guaranteed to completely consume you until you have to part ways with it.
It’s a story that’s going to haunt you while feeling thankful to have read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, I want to thank Christy Healy and Whimsy Words PR for the gifted eARC of Undying to read and provide my honest and spoiler free review!
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
This is my first time reading a book that is part of this series and I really wish I was able to read the other books first because this was such an amazing introduction to Christy’s work.
I was blown away with the depth that this book had to offer. It wasn’t just some random romantic fantasy, this book was an entire roller coaster of emotions. What I really liked was the way this author handled death and grief. As someone who has dealt with death in the family quite often, I loved seeing the way Christy wrote about it. I truly felt like this author made things so relatable by never giving the reader false hope. That loss is imminent in books just as it is in real life.
The other aspect that stuck out to me was the interesting Irish mythology and folklore. I love all types of mythology so I really enjoyed being able to get a taste of Irish mythology as I was reading. This was such a twisted little “fairytale” like novel that kept my attention the entire time.
Overall, I know I really want to go back and read the other books in this interconnected stand-alone series because I feel like I missed out on so much! I highly recommend this book if you find yourself in the mood for fantasy as well as amazing female main characters that just so happen to be morally grey!
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
This is my first time reading a book that is part of this series and I really wish I was able to read the other books first because this was such an amazing introduction to Christy’s work.
I was blown away with the depth that this book had to offer. It wasn’t just some random romantic fantasy, this book was an entire roller coaster of emotions. What I really liked was the way this author handled death and grief. As someone who has dealt with death in the family quite often, I loved seeing the way Christy wrote about it. I truly felt like this author made things so relatable by never giving the reader false hope. That loss is imminent in books just as it is in real life.
The other aspect that stuck out to me was the interesting Irish mythology and folklore. I love all types of mythology so I really enjoyed being able to get a taste of Irish mythology as I was reading. This was such a twisted little “fairytale” like novel that kept my attention the entire time.
Overall, I know I really want to go back and read the other books in this interconnected stand-alone series because I feel like I missed out on so much! I highly recommend this book if you find yourself in the mood for fantasy as well as amazing female main characters that just so happen to be morally grey!
June 6, 2026
Another beautiful, poignant, and impressive book by Christy Healy! I knew I was going to love Rory on page 1, and that absolutely proved to be true. These books are perfect at representing strong, layered women who feel deeply and make difficult choices in extraordinary circumstances. Rory's story is riddled with the real hardships of women's experiences in the 1100s, as well as complicated and tragic events from war & unsettling magic.
Rory is a gem of an FMC but the supporting characters bring depth to this compelling story. Niall is a sweet and semi-naive boy king, Locke is a snarky and remorseful survivor, Finn is loyal and focused, and the antagonists are truly dark and self-centered.
One of my favorite parts of Christy's work is the way in which she infuses Celtic mythology within the characters lives while also essentially having them live out mythology in the story. I have learned a ton of Celtic mythology across these books without feeling like I'm learning because the stories are woven in so well. I also really love the way this book in particular teases out differing levels of belief in mythological stories, how those stories carry on what's true and what's not, and how the stories can impact lives for generations.
TL; DR version: a strong, dark-powered FMC struggles with the nature of her magic to do what's right in a book grounded in fascinating mythology with a wildly compelling plot + cast of characters
Rory is a gem of an FMC but the supporting characters bring depth to this compelling story. Niall is a sweet and semi-naive boy king, Locke is a snarky and remorseful survivor, Finn is loyal and focused, and the antagonists are truly dark and self-centered.
One of my favorite parts of Christy's work is the way in which she infuses Celtic mythology within the characters lives while also essentially having them live out mythology in the story. I have learned a ton of Celtic mythology across these books without feeling like I'm learning because the stories are woven in so well. I also really love the way this book in particular teases out differing levels of belief in mythological stories, how those stories carry on what's true and what's not, and how the stories can impact lives for generations.
TL; DR version: a strong, dark-powered FMC struggles with the nature of her magic to do what's right in a book grounded in fascinating mythology with a wildly compelling plot + cast of characters
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review Copy Provided by Author
Undying by Christy Healy is a beautifully layered blend of Irish history, folklore, family loyalty, and slow-burning romance wrapped in shadows, mystery, and heartbreak.Steeped in the atmosphere of old fairytales and historic Ireland, this story pulls readers into a world filled with witches, ancient secrets, enemies-to-lovers tension, and deeply rooted family bonds.
The flashbacks to childhood add emotional depth and richness to the characters, making their journeys feel personal, haunting, and unforgettable.The historical elements are woven seamlessly throughout the story, creating vivid portrayals that feel authentic and immersive. Every character carries emotional weight, but having a brother myself, the unwavering loyalty between brother and sister stands out as one of the novel’s strongest and most touching threads.
The romance unfolds with a delicious slow burn, building steadily through tension, conflict, and emotional connection rather than rushing toward passion. Combined with the darker undertones of shadows and magic, it creates a story that feels both intimate and epic. Rich in atmosphere, history, emotion, and folklore, Undying is the perfect read for lovers of historical fantasy, Irish legends, and romances that simmer beneath the surface long before they ignite.
Undying by Christy Healy is a beautifully layered blend of Irish history, folklore, family loyalty, and slow-burning romance wrapped in shadows, mystery, and heartbreak.Steeped in the atmosphere of old fairytales and historic Ireland, this story pulls readers into a world filled with witches, ancient secrets, enemies-to-lovers tension, and deeply rooted family bonds.
The flashbacks to childhood add emotional depth and richness to the characters, making their journeys feel personal, haunting, and unforgettable.The historical elements are woven seamlessly throughout the story, creating vivid portrayals that feel authentic and immersive. Every character carries emotional weight, but having a brother myself, the unwavering loyalty between brother and sister stands out as one of the novel’s strongest and most touching threads.
The romance unfolds with a delicious slow burn, building steadily through tension, conflict, and emotional connection rather than rushing toward passion. Combined with the darker undertones of shadows and magic, it creates a story that feels both intimate and epic. Rich in atmosphere, history, emotion, and folklore, Undying is the perfect read for lovers of historical fantasy, Irish legends, and romances that simmer beneath the surface long before they ignite.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I went into this one mostly curious and ended up getting far more invested than I expected. Undying has a moody, heavier feel to it and really leans into atmosphere. It’s the kind of story where you slowly settle into the world and uncover pieces as you go, which kept me interested without feeling like I was being overloaded with information.
What stood out most for me was the emotional weight running through the story. The relationships felt complicated, the stakes felt real, and there was enough mystery to keep me turning pages. I also appreciated that it didn’t feel overly predictable.
This probably won’t be for readers wanting something light or fast-paced all the time—it has darker undertones and some emotionally intense moments—but if you enjoy fantasy with depth, tension, and a more haunting vibe, it’s worth picking up.
Things readers may want to be aware of:
Violence and darker imagery
Death/loss and grief themes
Emotionally heavy moments
Trauma and difficult choices
Power imbalance/manipulation themes
Moral grey characters
War/conflict themes
Definitely recommend checking content warnings if you prefer lighter reads or are sensitive to darker themes. Overall, this was a solid read for me and one I’ll probably think about for a while.
What stood out most for me was the emotional weight running through the story. The relationships felt complicated, the stakes felt real, and there was enough mystery to keep me turning pages. I also appreciated that it didn’t feel overly predictable.
This probably won’t be for readers wanting something light or fast-paced all the time—it has darker undertones and some emotionally intense moments—but if you enjoy fantasy with depth, tension, and a more haunting vibe, it’s worth picking up.
Things readers may want to be aware of:
Violence and darker imagery
Death/loss and grief themes
Emotionally heavy moments
Trauma and difficult choices
Power imbalance/manipulation themes
Moral grey characters
War/conflict themes
Definitely recommend checking content warnings if you prefer lighter reads or are sensitive to darker themes. Overall, this was a solid read for me and one I’ll probably think about for a while.
June 14, 2026
ARC Review: I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Overall rating: 4 🌟
Available now on Kindle unlimited and paperback.
Overall, I thought this was a beautifully written fantasy and I enjoyed it. I've never read anything by this author before but she has a beautiful writing style so I'm definitely reading more of her books in the future.
One thing that stood out to me was the world-building. Healy has woven a beautifully enchanting world with references to Irish mythology and it was incredibly immersive. I don't know that much about Irish folklore but I noticed several figures she'd picked out directly from the mythology. I loved how she made it her own and to fit the story.
The prose was sumptuous and lyrical. It fit the story perfectly. I loved the characters, they were all complex and had interesting motivations. Sometimes with multiple POVs the story can drag but that wasn't the case here. I was invested in each storyline.
Thank you to Whimsy Word PR and the author for sending me this ARC.
Overall rating: 4 🌟
Available now on Kindle unlimited and paperback.
Overall, I thought this was a beautifully written fantasy and I enjoyed it. I've never read anything by this author before but she has a beautiful writing style so I'm definitely reading more of her books in the future.
One thing that stood out to me was the world-building. Healy has woven a beautifully enchanting world with references to Irish mythology and it was incredibly immersive. I don't know that much about Irish folklore but I noticed several figures she'd picked out directly from the mythology. I loved how she made it her own and to fit the story.
The prose was sumptuous and lyrical. It fit the story perfectly. I loved the characters, they were all complex and had interesting motivations. Sometimes with multiple POVs the story can drag but that wasn't the case here. I was invested in each storyline.
Thank you to Whimsy Word PR and the author for sending me this ARC.
June 19, 2026
Spice: ♨️
This is a great series that I'd recommend to anyone who loves Irish mythology and folklore, because it's woven heavily throughout the story and gives it a really unique feel.
There are multiple timelines, so you definitely need to pay attention, but I enjoyed seeing how everything gradually came together.
I love the characters and their dynamic. The FMC is powerful, morally grey, and absolutely full of feminine rage, which made her impossible not to root for. The MMC is cocky, frustrating, and exactly the kind of character who leaves you constantly torn between wanting to slap him or kiss him. Their relationship is full of tension, sharp exchanges, and a constant push and pull that kept me intrigued.
I did lose a bit of focus part way through and found a chunk of the middle quite slow going. But the ending hit me right in the feelings and pulled it straight back up to a 4 star read. I do love a bit of emotional damage.
Highlights for me:
Badass FMC
Cocky MMC
Gods & monsters
Marriage of convenience
Betrayals
"My wife"
She saves him
Gory battles
Emotional trauma
Irish mythology
I received an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great series that I'd recommend to anyone who loves Irish mythology and folklore, because it's woven heavily throughout the story and gives it a really unique feel.
There are multiple timelines, so you definitely need to pay attention, but I enjoyed seeing how everything gradually came together.
I love the characters and their dynamic. The FMC is powerful, morally grey, and absolutely full of feminine rage, which made her impossible not to root for. The MMC is cocky, frustrating, and exactly the kind of character who leaves you constantly torn between wanting to slap him or kiss him. Their relationship is full of tension, sharp exchanges, and a constant push and pull that kept me intrigued.
I did lose a bit of focus part way through and found a chunk of the middle quite slow going. But the ending hit me right in the feelings and pulled it straight back up to a 4 star read. I do love a bit of emotional damage.
Highlights for me:
Badass FMC
Cocky MMC
Gods & monsters
Marriage of convenience
Betrayals
"My wife"
She saves him
Gory battles
Emotional trauma
Irish mythology
I received an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book three from @christyhealywrites "Undying" and it did not disappoint 😭🥹🙌🏻
Obviously, it's another ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rory has to quite literally battle her way through life, between strained family relationships, to a forced marriage to having to save all of humanity as she knows it... She's got a lot on her shoulders 😅
But would it be a Christy book if the FMC wasn't a complete and utter QUEEEEEN? Another FMC who makes women feel empowered, strong and shows us we can stand on our own two feet, fight for what we believe in AND make mistakes - all without being made to feel as though we still aren't doing enough!
This read had a lot going on, with multiple POV's, multiple timelines and a wholeeeee lot of plot twists and I enjoyed every damn minute of it!
As always, a massive thank you to Christy and to @whimsywordspr for giving me the opportunity to read this ahead of its release! 🤍
Obviously, it's another ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rory has to quite literally battle her way through life, between strained family relationships, to a forced marriage to having to save all of humanity as she knows it... She's got a lot on her shoulders 😅
But would it be a Christy book if the FMC wasn't a complete and utter QUEEEEEN? Another FMC who makes women feel empowered, strong and shows us we can stand on our own two feet, fight for what we believe in AND make mistakes - all without being made to feel as though we still aren't doing enough!
This read had a lot going on, with multiple POV's, multiple timelines and a wholeeeee lot of plot twists and I enjoyed every damn minute of it!
As always, a massive thank you to Christy and to @whimsywordspr for giving me the opportunity to read this ahead of its release! 🤍
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An epic tale of monsters, goddesses and myths in the making. I absolutely loved this tale of quests and legends. The world building was mesmerising, by the author's clear talent for description. The FMC was unusual in that she struggled to live alongside her power, rather than the usual trying to find, or grow her power. The males characters were full of banter, but were beautifully written to support her journey. It was refreshing to see a FMC own her power and take up space.
The love story was definitely secondary to the fantasy side, but this was no less capturing. The ending was just perfect, I shall say no more on that!
I particularly loved the Irish folklore and myths, interwoven in historical tales and fantasy world building.
The love story was definitely secondary to the fantasy side, but this was no less capturing. The ending was just perfect, I shall say no more on that!
I particularly loved the Irish folklore and myths, interwoven in historical tales and fantasy world building.
June 10, 2026
‘Undying’ is the perfect read for fans of Irish mythological and fairy tale retellings, it’s the mature version of Hansel and Gretel with world building that captivates you as a reader. The bond between the two siblings is truly beautiful, with a empowering female main character that stops at nothing to protect her brother and to fight for whats right. I absolutely loved reading Undying and I loved delving into the world of Rory, Niall, Locke and Finn - all strong willed characters with unique personality traits, it was an absolutely pleasure immersing myself back into Éire.
June 9, 2026
I received an arc of this book for honest review
I really enjoyed this story! I love everything about Ireland so reading this take on Irish history and mythology was very entertaining. It is the 3rd book in a series of interconnected standalones and I will be going back to read the first 2 now. The writing is very immersive and the story is well paced. I love Rory and Lockes journey, it is a more realistic enemies to lovers arc than most
I really enjoyed this story! I love everything about Ireland so reading this take on Irish history and mythology was very entertaining. It is the 3rd book in a series of interconnected standalones and I will be going back to read the first 2 now. The writing is very immersive and the story is well paced. I love Rory and Lockes journey, it is a more realistic enemies to lovers arc than most
Review of advance copy received from Author
Undying by Christy Healy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This series just keeps getting better.
I already loved the previous books, but Undying might be my favorite of the three. Christy Healy has such a talent for creating characters who shouldn't be easy to love, yet somehow you find yourself completely invested in them. Rory is fierce, complicated, and unapologetically herself, and I couldn't look away from her story.
One of my favorite things about this series is how interconnected the books feel while still telling complete stories. Every time I thought I had things figured out, another piece of the puzzle clicked into place.
The Irish mythology and folklore elements were absolutely fascinating and added so much depth to the story. Combined with the darker atmosphere, morally gray characters, betrayal, ancient magic, and a romance that felt earned, I was completely hooked.
The romance was especially well done. It wasn't instant or effortless, and I loved watching the emotional connection develop alongside everything else happening in the story. The relationships in this book—romantic and otherwise—felt like the heart of the story.
Most importantly, this book made me feel. There were moments that had me stressed, emotional, angry, and completely invested in what would happen next. By the end, I wasn't ready to leave this world behind.
✨ If you enjoy:
🖤 Irish mythology & folklore
⚔️ Morally gray characters
💍 Forced marriage
🔥 Slow-burn romance
🖤 Dark fantasy vibes
✨ Ancient magic
❤️ Emotional character journeys
If you've been considering this series, consider this your sign to pick it up.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This series just keeps getting better.
I already loved the previous books, but Undying might be my favorite of the three. Christy Healy has such a talent for creating characters who shouldn't be easy to love, yet somehow you find yourself completely invested in them. Rory is fierce, complicated, and unapologetically herself, and I couldn't look away from her story.
One of my favorite things about this series is how interconnected the books feel while still telling complete stories. Every time I thought I had things figured out, another piece of the puzzle clicked into place.
The Irish mythology and folklore elements were absolutely fascinating and added so much depth to the story. Combined with the darker atmosphere, morally gray characters, betrayal, ancient magic, and a romance that felt earned, I was completely hooked.
The romance was especially well done. It wasn't instant or effortless, and I loved watching the emotional connection develop alongside everything else happening in the story. The relationships in this book—romantic and otherwise—felt like the heart of the story.
Most importantly, this book made me feel. There were moments that had me stressed, emotional, angry, and completely invested in what would happen next. By the end, I wasn't ready to leave this world behind.
✨ If you enjoy:
🖤 Irish mythology & folklore
⚔️ Morally gray characters
💍 Forced marriage
🔥 Slow-burn romance
🖤 Dark fantasy vibes
✨ Ancient magic
❤️ Emotional character journeys
If you've been considering this series, consider this your sign to pick it up.
May 9, 2025
Review TK bcs there would be spoilers but ugh I was heartbroken at some parts of the book and still adore the whole thing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Advanced reader copy review"
WOW! I'm not sure how to put into words how much I loved this book. It is officially one of my top 3 reads of 2026.
WOW! I'm not sure how to put into words how much I loved this book. It is officially one of my top 3 reads of 2026.
June 17, 2026
As an Irish woman I truly loved this book. I love how the author dived into Irish mythology and folklore and it reminded me how magical and fascinating Ireland really is. This is a story of redemption for the FMC Rory and my goodness, do not mess with a woman scorned and betrayed. She is a force to be reckoned with. I enjoyed the relationship dynamics of Rory and Niall the most, and how it started in a place of love and innocence and changed over time.
I found myself being proud that I didnt have to refer to the pronunciation guide too much as I recognised a lot of the names and place names.
Overall, this was an emotional rollercoaster following a badass FMC striving for redemption
I found myself being proud that I didnt have to refer to the pronunciation guide too much as I recognised a lot of the names and place names.
Overall, this was an emotional rollercoaster following a badass FMC striving for redemption
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to the author and Whimsy Words PR for the opportunity to read this ARC! 💫
This book was so magical. The different folklore woven throughout the story made it feel even more enchanting. The narrative shifts between the past and present, weaving together a tale of sibling love, and secrets. Two children are thrown together and form a bond built on protection, shared legends, and unwavering loyalty.
The FMC, Rory, is morally grey, in large part because of the magic in her veins and the fear it inspires in others. When her world and homeland are ripped away from her, she is forced into a marriage with her enemy as part of a revenge plot. But she soon discovers he is far more complex than she first believed, and that enemies-to-forced-lovers might be a path worth taking, instead of disposing of him.
At its core, this story is about two siblings and how their love for one another and broken trusts shapes their world, for better and for worse. This book broke my heart multiple times, but it also had me cheering for Rory and the friends she gathers along the way.
This book was so magical. The different folklore woven throughout the story made it feel even more enchanting. The narrative shifts between the past and present, weaving together a tale of sibling love, and secrets. Two children are thrown together and form a bond built on protection, shared legends, and unwavering loyalty.
The FMC, Rory, is morally grey, in large part because of the magic in her veins and the fear it inspires in others. When her world and homeland are ripped away from her, she is forced into a marriage with her enemy as part of a revenge plot. But she soon discovers he is far more complex than she first believed, and that enemies-to-forced-lovers might be a path worth taking, instead of disposing of him.
At its core, this story is about two siblings and how their love for one another and broken trusts shapes their world, for better and for worse. This book broke my heart multiple times, but it also had me cheering for Rory and the friends she gathers along the way.
June 10, 2026
ARC review
3.5 rounded to four
Wow this was some read!! I loved the folklore that the author has clearly spent a lot of time researching prior to writing. You are immediately sucked in to that world.
I was so invested in the characters and their stories and the romance had me pretty hooked from the get go! It did move a bit slower than I would typically like and that timeline changes sometimes felt like it paused the natural reading flow which took me a bit to get into. There was some really strong scenes and the whole premise definitely had me intrigued
The emotion and tension throughout this book has you wanting to read just one more page to see how it’ll land.
3.5 rounded to four
Wow this was some read!! I loved the folklore that the author has clearly spent a lot of time researching prior to writing. You are immediately sucked in to that world.
I was so invested in the characters and their stories and the romance had me pretty hooked from the get go! It did move a bit slower than I would typically like and that timeline changes sometimes felt like it paused the natural reading flow which took me a bit to get into. There was some really strong scenes and the whole premise definitely had me intrigued
The emotion and tension throughout this book has you wanting to read just one more page to see how it’ll land.
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