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Modern Tales of Na Fianna #1
Blood Ties
In an Ireland that mixes high kings, faeries, and modern warriors who drive fast cars, Ciran, a descendant from the famous warrior Fionn Mac Cool, bands together with a company of young warriors to go on a quest to recover their missing family members who were captured on patrol by the Goblins during a shaky peace between the two kingdoms. Ciran and his companions must figure out not only how they are going to rescue the prisoners, but how they are going to complete their mission without killing each other. This first book in the new urban fantasy series by Hazel West is a story of brotherhood and friendship against all odds, that mixes the ancient Irish legends with a modern setting for an action-packed read.
438 pages, Paperback
First published February 16, 2016
3 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Hazel B. West
24 books145 followersHazel B. West is the author of several novels including historical titles like On a Foreign Field, By Blood or By Bond; Wolfsblood, a book about werewolves in Roman Britain and the Modern Tales of Na Fianna series, which feature modern Irish warriors with swords and fast sports cars and lots of faeries.
Hailing from Purgatory (aka, Florida) Hazel is an indie author, book wyrm, and coffee connoisseur. She typically enjoys writing books with an unconventional flair, probably with a bit of folklore and mythology, most definitely with a lot of siblings or brothers-in-arms. When she’s not writing, she manages an Etsy shop, drinks a lot of coffee, listens to music, haunts conventions, or just holes up like an eldritch horror and binges her favorite shows—for inspiration. If you meet this rare creature on the street, she has been known to respond to the offer of coffee and old bookstores. But it’s probably best you try to contact her online first.
Hailing from Purgatory (aka, Florida) Hazel is an indie author, book wyrm, and coffee connoisseur. She typically enjoys writing books with an unconventional flair, probably with a bit of folklore and mythology, most definitely with a lot of siblings or brothers-in-arms. When she’s not writing, she manages an Etsy shop, drinks a lot of coffee, listens to music, haunts conventions, or just holes up like an eldritch horror and binges her favorite shows—for inspiration. If you meet this rare creature on the street, she has been known to respond to the offer of coffee and old bookstores. But it’s probably best you try to contact her online first.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
October 27, 2020
Re-read October 2020
I love it so much!
Re-read for readalong, June 2017
<333
ONE OF MY FAVE STORYWORLDS EVER. PLUS THESE CHARACTERS. <333
Now I need to reread An Earthly King again...
*HUGS BOOK FOREVER*
Original review (first read March 10, 2016)
Originally posted on The Road of a Writer as part of a blog tour: https://deborahocarroll.wordpress.com...
This book contains, among other things: awesome characters galore, brothers by blood and by bond, friendship, bickering (oh, the bickering!), quests, Irish warriors with fast cars and swords, a few fairies, a lot of goblins (in black leather, of course), a lot of epic fight scenes, muffins, and knitting; all wrapped up in a modern Ireland with an alternate history, keeping all of the awesomeness of medieval times, and one foot in modern times for all the cool things we have now, like cell phones and laptops and movies and cars.
I really don't see why anyone would need any reasons beyond that to read it . . . but I shall continue, in any case, since I'll take any excuse to fangirl over this delightful book. ;)
My two favorite things: the setting and the friendships.
It perfectly blends a modern Irish setting with medieval warrior clans and a dash of Faerie, which may sound like an odd mix, but it WORKS. I was simply in love with this world! Like... aside from the danger, can I just live there, please? I really enjoyed getting to learn more about the setting and how it all fit together. The whole thing came so alive for me! I don't usually read much modern fiction, but I loved this -- so even if you're not one for a contemporary setting, this one's still worth giving a try!
Just the idea of these Irish warriors, who are a mix of medieval and modern, descendants of Finn Mac Cool, still working for a High King of Ireland; and being part Fae as the hero and the other Fianna are, they have faster reflexes and more instincts; they're basically like ninjas, only cooler and faster and Irish. (Our narrator, Ciran, even mentions that it's been proven that ninjas can't beat them. XD How cool is that?)
It's so fun how the characters will one moment be in a motorbike/car chase with some goblins, the next having a sword fight, and the next be hanging out at home at their castle with a brother, eating ice cream and cheese balls and watching a movie late at night . . . and then off on an epic journey across the rolling green hills of Ireland, having to watch out for the tricks of the Fae. I just love it! The mix is a ton of fun.
The characters leapt off the page. They are all awesome and I am very fond of them! *hugs them all* They're mostly teens (or early twenties) and a fabulous bunch. Their interactions and dialog and how they bounce off each other and fight and make friends is just wonderful. It's the best.
Our hero Ciran, who is awesome and my favorite; his best friend Tierney (their relationship is the best!); Caitlin, a warrior maiden who is both maiden and warrior and not stuck up about it, and goodnatured, who I loved a ton; Deaglan, lady's man and archer and always with perfect hair; Riordan the very calm (licensed!) Berserker who knits; and his flashy troublemaker little brother Keevan. Then of course there's High King Eamon, who is simply fabulous; and his captain of the guard/best friend Killian -- the antics of those two together, especially, simply had me in stitches with laughter. But all of them together were so great!
I loved the relationships in this book so much. Family is very strong, but also friendship. The main theme is one of brotherhood -- whether they be sword brothers or brothers born. This best-friend buddies kind of story is one of my favorites, and for sheer amount of awesome bro-ness, it's likely the best I've ever read. The love of family, brothers, friends, and what they'd all do for each other, while teasing and fighting a bit... I just LOVED it! ^_^
I'm not the biggest fan of books told in first person, so it's a high compliment coming from me that I loved how this story was written, and the narrator, Ciran, is my favorite character of all. I just loved his dry witty way of putting things. Seeing the story through his eyes was awesome. I love his determination and how he tried his hardest and learned to be a leader. Just... Ciran! He's great. :)
The book also has a more serious and darker side to it, with some deeper themes and emotions, touching on family, loyalty, betrayal, coming of age -- it's about a group of mostly teenage warriors, after all! The content is clean, although sensitive readers might want to know there's mention of torture; and of course a bunch of fighting, because that's a given with this sort of epic adventure. ;) On that note, I have to make a special mention of the fight sequences -- sword fights and otherwise -- which were amazingly well written! I could see them all so well. The fight descriptions and the humorous bantering dialog attest to this author's skill.
I'll admit that from the way it started out, I expected it to have more emphasis on the modern aspect, like in a city... with roads and things; and on the specific friendship between the hero and his best friend, Tierney. But that relationship, while still present, fell somewhat in the background with the onset of several other (awesome) characters and all of their interactions, and once the story got underway, it was much more a medieval fantasy adventure quest type of thing (though the modern showed its head from time to time). But all of that is right up my alley, so although I expected something a little different, you will definitely not find me complaining. ;)
Do I have any complaints, then? Mainly that I wish it wasn't over and need the next one!
Overall: I definitely recommend Blood Ties! I loved this book and just want to hug it, and/or go live there, and I'm excitedly awaiting the sequel! (It's going to be from Eamon's point of view and I could. not. be. more. excited. EEP! When is that releasing, again??) I can't wait to return to this world! <3
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for my honest review, and all opinions are my own. Have since bought the paperback so I can reread it whenever I want. :D
I love it so much!
Re-read for readalong, June 2017
<333
ONE OF MY FAVE STORYWORLDS EVER. PLUS THESE CHARACTERS. <333
Now I need to reread An Earthly King again...
*HUGS BOOK FOREVER*
Original review (first read March 10, 2016)
Originally posted on The Road of a Writer as part of a blog tour: https://deborahocarroll.wordpress.com...
This book contains, among other things: awesome characters galore, brothers by blood and by bond, friendship, bickering (oh, the bickering!), quests, Irish warriors with fast cars and swords, a few fairies, a lot of goblins (in black leather, of course), a lot of epic fight scenes, muffins, and knitting; all wrapped up in a modern Ireland with an alternate history, keeping all of the awesomeness of medieval times, and one foot in modern times for all the cool things we have now, like cell phones and laptops and movies and cars.
I really don't see why anyone would need any reasons beyond that to read it . . . but I shall continue, in any case, since I'll take any excuse to fangirl over this delightful book. ;)
My two favorite things: the setting and the friendships.
It perfectly blends a modern Irish setting with medieval warrior clans and a dash of Faerie, which may sound like an odd mix, but it WORKS. I was simply in love with this world! Like... aside from the danger, can I just live there, please? I really enjoyed getting to learn more about the setting and how it all fit together. The whole thing came so alive for me! I don't usually read much modern fiction, but I loved this -- so even if you're not one for a contemporary setting, this one's still worth giving a try!
Just the idea of these Irish warriors, who are a mix of medieval and modern, descendants of Finn Mac Cool, still working for a High King of Ireland; and being part Fae as the hero and the other Fianna are, they have faster reflexes and more instincts; they're basically like ninjas, only cooler and faster and Irish. (Our narrator, Ciran, even mentions that it's been proven that ninjas can't beat them. XD How cool is that?)
It's so fun how the characters will one moment be in a motorbike/car chase with some goblins, the next having a sword fight, and the next be hanging out at home at their castle with a brother, eating ice cream and cheese balls and watching a movie late at night . . . and then off on an epic journey across the rolling green hills of Ireland, having to watch out for the tricks of the Fae. I just love it! The mix is a ton of fun.
The characters leapt off the page. They are all awesome and I am very fond of them! *hugs them all* They're mostly teens (or early twenties) and a fabulous bunch. Their interactions and dialog and how they bounce off each other and fight and make friends is just wonderful. It's the best.
Our hero Ciran, who is awesome and my favorite; his best friend Tierney (their relationship is the best!); Caitlin, a warrior maiden who is both maiden and warrior and not stuck up about it, and goodnatured, who I loved a ton; Deaglan, lady's man and archer and always with perfect hair; Riordan the very calm (licensed!) Berserker who knits; and his flashy troublemaker little brother Keevan. Then of course there's High King Eamon, who is simply fabulous; and his captain of the guard/best friend Killian -- the antics of those two together, especially, simply had me in stitches with laughter. But all of them together were so great!
I loved the relationships in this book so much. Family is very strong, but also friendship. The main theme is one of brotherhood -- whether they be sword brothers or brothers born. This best-friend buddies kind of story is one of my favorites, and for sheer amount of awesome bro-ness, it's likely the best I've ever read. The love of family, brothers, friends, and what they'd all do for each other, while teasing and fighting a bit... I just LOVED it! ^_^
I'm not the biggest fan of books told in first person, so it's a high compliment coming from me that I loved how this story was written, and the narrator, Ciran, is my favorite character of all. I just loved his dry witty way of putting things. Seeing the story through his eyes was awesome. I love his determination and how he tried his hardest and learned to be a leader. Just... Ciran! He's great. :)
The book also has a more serious and darker side to it, with some deeper themes and emotions, touching on family, loyalty, betrayal, coming of age -- it's about a group of mostly teenage warriors, after all! The content is clean, although sensitive readers might want to know there's mention of torture; and of course a bunch of fighting, because that's a given with this sort of epic adventure. ;) On that note, I have to make a special mention of the fight sequences -- sword fights and otherwise -- which were amazingly well written! I could see them all so well. The fight descriptions and the humorous bantering dialog attest to this author's skill.
I'll admit that from the way it started out, I expected it to have more emphasis on the modern aspect, like in a city... with roads and things; and on the specific friendship between the hero and his best friend, Tierney. But that relationship, while still present, fell somewhat in the background with the onset of several other (awesome) characters and all of their interactions, and once the story got underway, it was much more a medieval fantasy adventure quest type of thing (though the modern showed its head from time to time). But all of that is right up my alley, so although I expected something a little different, you will definitely not find me complaining. ;)
Do I have any complaints, then? Mainly that I wish it wasn't over and need the next one!
Overall: I definitely recommend Blood Ties! I loved this book and just want to hug it, and/or go live there, and I'm excitedly awaiting the sequel! (It's going to be from Eamon's point of view and I could. not. be. more. excited. EEP! When is that releasing, again??) I can't wait to return to this world! <3
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for my honest review, and all opinions are my own. Have since bought the paperback so I can reread it whenever I want. :D
June 30, 2017
Ciran Mac Cool, of the blood of Finn Mac Cool and some Fae, a Fianna warrior, has many brothers (and a sister, Maeve). He has Daegal, very close to him, sweet, and with second sight; Sean, a little warrior; Finbar, who is quiet; and Aeden, who is missing because he and other Fianna were captured by Goblins.
With the blessing of King Eamon (who is very funny and whose Captain of the Guard, Killian, is also funny and likes Maeve), Ciran and several other people go to rescue their relatives.
The Company of Ciran Mac Cool comprises Ciran, his “brother” Tierney, Deaglan (whose family has a feud with Ciran’s), Riordan (a knitting berserker) and his brother Keevan (with spiky red hair), and Caitlin, Killian’s sister. They all become brothers by the end of the book, except Caitlin, obviously. She fits in well, but she and Ciran do not feel about each other like siblings.
Miss West couldn’t possibly fit in more brothers, but she did. You’ll have to read it to find out what sort of brothers they are.
King Lorcan is the non-sadistic but cruel Gothic-dressed Goblin villain.
Content: violence, a*** once, d***** once.
Finally: The best book that I’ve read by Miss West. It’s a very good adventure, and if you like stories with brothers you must read it.
With the blessing of King Eamon (who is very funny and whose Captain of the Guard, Killian, is also funny and likes Maeve), Ciran and several other people go to rescue their relatives.
The Company of Ciran Mac Cool comprises Ciran, his “brother” Tierney, Deaglan (whose family has a feud with Ciran’s), Riordan (a knitting berserker) and his brother Keevan (with spiky red hair), and Caitlin, Killian’s sister. They all become brothers by the end of the book, except Caitlin, obviously. She fits in well, but she and Ciran do not feel about each other like siblings.
Miss West couldn’t possibly fit in more brothers, but she did. You’ll have to read it to find out what sort of brothers they are.
King Lorcan is the non-sadistic but cruel Gothic-dressed Goblin villain.
Content: violence, a*** once, d***** once.
Finally: The best book that I’ve read by Miss West. It’s a very good adventure, and if you like stories with brothers you must read it.
March 10, 2016
So I basically loved everything about this book. :) Ciran is a descendant of the famous Finn MacCool in what is basically an alternate modern world. He and his family serve the king of Ireland and when he gets sent off on a special mission disaster and adventure await!
The world is a mashup of modern appliances and medieval weapons, but it worked! How awesome are Irish guys with swords and leather breastplates speeding around in sports cars? Speaking of said Irish guys, I loved Ciran. He narrates the story and I found him to be a tremendous character. I loved his relationship with his family and his "sword-brother". As for Caitlyn? I'm a huge fan. I appreciate how she's a warrior but she doesn't try so hard to be a guy. She fits right in and jokes right along with the guys and they all respect her for it. And can actually take care of herself. It was so refreshing in a female character. And Killian and Eoman? They kept me in stitches. Can't wait to see more of them. Their bromance is truly adorable.
I really enjoyed the world that Ms. West created and can't wait to return to it. The story was well paced and kept me turning pages with plenty of twists and setbacks to keep the characters busy. I did feel like I never really got a good picture of what the Goblins look like, but that's a minor thing. The ending felt a little neat, but I might be proved wrong in another book.
Highly recommended to anyone who loves fast paced adventure, stories about family, and strong characters!
The world is a mashup of modern appliances and medieval weapons, but it worked! How awesome are Irish guys with swords and leather breastplates speeding around in sports cars? Speaking of said Irish guys, I loved Ciran. He narrates the story and I found him to be a tremendous character. I loved his relationship with his family and his "sword-brother". As for Caitlyn? I'm a huge fan. I appreciate how she's a warrior but she doesn't try so hard to be a guy. She fits right in and jokes right along with the guys and they all respect her for it. And can actually take care of herself. It was so refreshing in a female character. And Killian and Eoman? They kept me in stitches. Can't wait to see more of them. Their bromance is truly adorable.
I really enjoyed the world that Ms. West created and can't wait to return to it. The story was well paced and kept me turning pages with plenty of twists and setbacks to keep the characters busy. I did feel like I never really got a good picture of what the Goblins look like, but that's a minor thing. The ending felt a little neat, but I might be proved wrong in another book.
Highly recommended to anyone who loves fast paced adventure, stories about family, and strong characters!
March 24, 2017
Booyah
Epic blend of modern world and fantasy. Love the sibling dynamics. More raving/explaining when I can get to a computer.
Epic blend of modern world and fantasy. Love the sibling dynamics. More raving/explaining when I can get to a computer.
February 24, 2016
Ok, first of all. I love how Irish this book is. I mean, it’s set in Ireland and based of old Irish folklore so it kind of has to be, but still. For me, that was just kind of refreshing. It’s not just beating the same old legends and folklore to death. I knew nothing about any of this stuff before starting this book so it was really being introduced to a new world and that’s always a good thing. I love reading books set in countries that I’ve visited and loved because it reminds me of my time there, even though, in this particular instance, I had no experience with goblins while I was in Ireland. Probably a good thing, all things considered. Anyway, the story had some elements that you can find in other modern fantasy, but overall it was fun and fast-paced with a wealth of interesting characters that were fun to get to know. If you want to step away from the fantasy norms and get into something you’re probably not super familiar with, this is your book.
Oh, and as kind of an awesome bonus, there’s a lot of extras at the end like a look into the folklore the story is based on, a pronunciation guide (you’re going to need this one unless you know Gaelic), and an Irish dictionary. There’s even a couple of recipes back there that tie into the book and they sound down right tasty.
Oh, and as kind of an awesome bonus, there’s a lot of extras at the end like a look into the folklore the story is based on, a pronunciation guide (you’re going to need this one unless you know Gaelic), and an Irish dictionary. There’s even a couple of recipes back there that tie into the book and they sound down right tasty.
April 20, 2019
This book is good. Good as in all those ways you can use the handy, overused word "good." I am not making it up when I say that this book is good. This is the sort of book…oh, never mind. Just remember that it is really good (oops, I didn't mean to say that more than thrice……spectacular) and is urban/contemporary fantasy (or whatever it's called these very fickle days)! I anxiously waited for this book as it came out and then suddenly there it was, in my hands, and I was reading it (I am not talking about teleportation, but wouldn't that be a nice way to get books…?)!
Anyway, it was, of course, nearly perfect in every way. Just look at the descriptions and the posts about it on Hazel B. West's Blog; you'll see how exciting it sounds. Just for a sample, think of really fast cars (possibly with motorcycles chasing them), swords, high kings, laptops, goblins, faeries, prisons, small- and large-scale battles, and virtually anything else you would want to find in a adventure story, including very well-written feasts. And all the comradeship you could want. Not bad, eh? It gets even better.
Goblins are presented as I have never seen them before and I readily will say that of all the tales that I have read that contain goblins, this definitely has the best portrayal of them. I also like the other Fae, also quite wonderfully done, though they don't feature as much in this book as they do in the sequels.
The historical, mythological, and modern themes have been seamlessly blended into something original and amazing (hence the five star ("it was amazing") review). And I didn't even mention the plot and all the peculiarities attached to it, which is all entirely too good for review (I'm not exaggerating. I don't know where to begin).
Recommended for everybody and their distant relations. This book is WONDERFUL!!! And it's about Ireland. Twice wonderful.
Anyway, it was, of course, nearly perfect in every way. Just look at the descriptions and the posts about it on Hazel B. West's Blog; you'll see how exciting it sounds. Just for a sample, think of really fast cars (possibly with motorcycles chasing them), swords, high kings, laptops, goblins, faeries, prisons, small- and large-scale battles, and virtually anything else you would want to find in a adventure story, including very well-written feasts. And all the comradeship you could want. Not bad, eh? It gets even better.
Goblins are presented as I have never seen them before and I readily will say that of all the tales that I have read that contain goblins, this definitely has the best portrayal of them. I also like the other Fae, also quite wonderfully done, though they don't feature as much in this book as they do in the sequels.
The historical, mythological, and modern themes have been seamlessly blended into something original and amazing (hence the five star ("it was amazing") review). And I didn't even mention the plot and all the peculiarities attached to it, which is all entirely too good for review (I'm not exaggerating. I don't know where to begin).
Recommended for everybody and their distant relations. This book is WONDERFUL!!! And it's about Ireland. Twice wonderful.
June 30, 2017
Such a fun book! It totally surprised me how much I enjoyed this mash up of goblins with motorbikes, kings with cars, swords with mobile phones, legends of the Na Finna (of which I was ignorant) with modern day life. The blend of these elements was really entertaining and consistently executed. I also really appreciated the heart of this book - the longing of Ciran to find and rescue his brother who has been captured by the Goblin King, whatever the danger to himself. I also really liked the good natured camaraderie, the sarcasm, the banter, the loyalty to king and country, the way the enemies interacted and also the demonstration of the strength of blood ties. Also the open hearted forgiveness was lovely and the desire to do right.
I did find the use of bl**dy a bit jarring because of the overall tone of the book (a common Irish way of talking? Is it not considered swearing there?).
I did also strongly wish that this book had had a cover that better reflected the crazy fun this book is - I thought it was a much more sober piece and hence avoided reading it for a long time.
Overall this is a rollicking journey with heart that is absolutely worth reading.
I did find the use of bl**dy a bit jarring because of the overall tone of the book (a common Irish way of talking? Is it not considered swearing there?).
I did also strongly wish that this book had had a cover that better reflected the crazy fun this book is - I thought it was a much more sober piece and hence avoided reading it for a long time.
Overall this is a rollicking journey with heart that is absolutely worth reading.
November 5, 2016
Great book, Interesting characters, I really liked the Irish mythology/ modern world thing.
But the cover... I know you shouldn't judge a book but it's cover... but....
But the cover... I know you shouldn't judge a book but it's cover... but....
October 9, 2017
3.5 stars!
Blood Ties is a story about brotherhood, the gray area of war, and what happens when a bunch of sassy young men go questing together! so, naturally, this book was just SO. MUCH. FUN!
Plot synopsis:
In an Ireland that mixes high kings, faeries, and modern warriors who drive fast cars, Ciran, a descendant from the famous warrior Fionn Mac Cool, bands together with a company of young warriors to go on a quest to recover their missing family members who were captured on patrol by the Goblins during a shaky peace between the two kingdoms. Ciran and his companions must figure out not only how they are going to rescue the prisoners, but how they are going to complete their mission without killing each other. This first book in the new urban fantasy series by Hazel West is a story of brotherhood and friendship against all odds, that mixes the ancient Irish legends with a modern setting for an action-packed read.
I'll admit, despite how much enjoyement I had with this book it did take me a little while to get into it. The first few chapters were loaded with too much info and worlbuilding which I think kind of messed with the pacing a little.
The characters though, oh my goodness were they amazing! West does a great job of balancing a big cast of characters and giving them all depth. I absolutely loved the banterous dialog between them, and watching the chemistry between them start to develop! Caitlin has to have been my favorite, she's very capable and kick butt yet she isn't all "hmmph, I won't accept help from a man, men are weak" either. She's written like an actual human being, which I appreciated (writers take note) I wasn't extremely fond of the main character though. There was never really anything relatable about him as I felt like he was rather flawless. I was a little bit disappointed about this because as the main leader of the questing group, I think it would've been very interesting to see him have to balance being a good leader and working through his personal issues while seeing how his shortcomings affected the group, but sadly he never really made any mistakes so we never really got to see any of the struggles of leadership. The rest of the characters were really awesome though! they had so much red head sass oh my goodness!
The ancient Ireland setting mixed with modern day blended really well together. The modern tech addition to fantasy added a completely different flavor to the story. It just added so much humor. Like how the team actually drove on a quest instead of walking and how Ciran would just whip out his cellphone and call his boss as soon as they had a mission update, it was just so great!
Yet if I had to choose one favorite thing out of the whole book it would have to be how the book portrayed the gray areas of war. You'll have to read it for yourself (#marketing) to see what I mean as I can't get detailed with this since it involves major spoilers, but needless to say, the author does a great job handling this topic.
Other than the issues already mentioned, I had jus a few other critiques. The first being that I thought the overall writing could've used a few more rounds of edits, it felt kinda rocky and unatural at points which I felt messed with the overall flow of the story. And the other major issue that I had with it was that the major climax of the story didn't really feel like any more of a challenge then any of the other hardships that they encountered on the way. I just think that it was slightly rushed and could probably have been fleshed out a bit more.
Aside from those issues though, I really liked this book! I highly recommend this to anyone who loves fantasy with a bit of hist fiction thrown in
August 1, 2016
With the first sentence, I was taken by the author's crisp writing style. Ms. West skillfully brings the medieval setting into modern times. She composes words and phrases in a way that draws the reader into this alternative reality. Though she has created a rather unique world, we can identify with the characters as they struggle with common challenges in their relationships. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy.
December 14, 2016
Blood Ties is a novel where you would love to live with the characters. It is a novel where you want to put yourself into. The world building, the friendships, the amazing relationships of the characters put me into a delightful, fascinating, interesting and adventurous journey. The novel focuses on urban fantasy where the ancient and modern era collides. It’s unique and it will spar fantasy novels out there.
I find this book amusing. The friendship and loyalty are so strong on this one that sometimes, I don’t know if I am reading a fictional story or is it a reality. The trust and faith of the characters are overwhelming. You could feel that they want to believe in a glimpse of hope when they are on the verge of letting go. You could feel their longing and anger that you can imagine yourself if you are on their shoes.
This novel is outstanding and magnificent and a combination of brilliance. I was new with the Irish Legends and I think, the author gave justice on introducing us to the world that she created and to the world that was unknown to us. Figuratively, this book is one of those gems hiding out there that definitely needed to be read. A book that we need on our shelf, a book that we love to stare upon and have another journey with the characters.
Aside from this book having a good foundation with its character’s personality, the book also has the dark side. The emotions are lurking, hiding in the depths of the novel. You’ll feel strong emotions – betrayal, rage, and distrust. With the epic expedition, with unexpected twists, with compelling battles and with remarkable characters, this book brings us into a different realm where we will fall in love with the fast-paced writing style of the author with its distinctive feelings.
This one is definitely recommended! I like it and for sure, definitely anticipating the release of Book 2. I’m expecting more blood bath, goblins, of course, and more incoming twist!
Ratings: 4 stars
I find this book amusing. The friendship and loyalty are so strong on this one that sometimes, I don’t know if I am reading a fictional story or is it a reality. The trust and faith of the characters are overwhelming. You could feel that they want to believe in a glimpse of hope when they are on the verge of letting go. You could feel their longing and anger that you can imagine yourself if you are on their shoes.
This novel is outstanding and magnificent and a combination of brilliance. I was new with the Irish Legends and I think, the author gave justice on introducing us to the world that she created and to the world that was unknown to us. Figuratively, this book is one of those gems hiding out there that definitely needed to be read. A book that we need on our shelf, a book that we love to stare upon and have another journey with the characters.
Aside from this book having a good foundation with its character’s personality, the book also has the dark side. The emotions are lurking, hiding in the depths of the novel. You’ll feel strong emotions – betrayal, rage, and distrust. With the epic expedition, with unexpected twists, with compelling battles and with remarkable characters, this book brings us into a different realm where we will fall in love with the fast-paced writing style of the author with its distinctive feelings.
This one is definitely recommended! I like it and for sure, definitely anticipating the release of Book 2. I’m expecting more blood bath, goblins, of course, and more incoming twist!
Ratings: 4 stars
July 25, 2019
The e-book remains as good as the paperback.
★ See my excellent review of said paperback.
★ See my excellent review of said paperback.
October 30, 2018
I recently read all three of these books pretty much back to back, and here's the Cliff's notes on the trio. While being totally not my usual thing, I did find them oddly addictive.
There were a lot of flaws, especially earlier-to-later, clearly tracing the writer's growth. Some people might not be able to get past that; but if you're able to read with an open mind and a big pinch of salt on 'what should be' I found these tales fun and entertaining, in a way that I'm usually not exposed to much. Even a little bit wacky, if that's the right word for it.
(Would I now like a steady diet of this? No. But it was a lighthearted change, something totally different.)
Blood Ties: Modern Tales of Na Fianna, Book 1
The Modern Tales of Na Fianna is something the likes of which I hadn’t personally seen. The entire concept of black leather clad, part-Fae, elite Irish warriors in Ashton Martins and Ferraris just struck me as something that wouldn’t appeal at all to me... and yet somehow the sheer weirdness of it won me over without my agreeing to it.
I can’t even really explain the charm, but it is undeniably there, and I found these to be ‘feel good’ books in the very oddest way, (in spite of several significant torture scenes in Book 1; which I always loath that kind of scene. If a book wants that to happen, better be off screen for this reader.)
The trio begins sluggishly with a clearly amateurish hand at the pen, a lot of suspension of disbelief required for the plot, and characters that seem revoltingly juvenile even for teens... especially in that they’re the only ones left to fight in a war that has killed or crippled everyone older then they.
(Except for the obnoxious, paunchy king of the sub-kingdom. He’s still alive, and never been to a battle if everyone’s jibes are to be believed. *Excuse me; how is he still king?* Never mind...)
The plot of rescuing a patrol captured by goblins six months ago manages to enlist sympathies even when the MCs fall prey to over worn trope syndrome right and left; from angsty miscommunications to petty squabbling with the team while on a mission through enemy territory, the action unfolds like a gaggle of mal-adjusted teenagers at a role-playing game in the basement.
Not much like an actual, real life, death is on the line, military venture. (I don’t care how young, real death has a way of sobering people right up.)
That being said, Book 1 barely scraps itself over the rocks of the battering seashore to hold onto its somewhat conflicted charm... of partial Fae teens up against an ancient Goblin enemy. The theme has an undeniable intrigue, and rescuing pummeled family members is always a compelling ‘save the cat’.
Somehow the triviality in the MCs, and the predictable, “called it last week!” unfolding of their emotional journeys, can’t quite sink the premise in spite of themselves.
And in spite of the characters appalling frivolity, and logic-defying choices in the midst of what is tantamount to a cold war situation, the plot clings on to my interest like a wounded man hanging out of a life support helicopter at is hightails it out of the war zone.
In the end, the patient is actually saved, and I sincerely wanted to read the next book. (Handy thing, because I actually had the next book. It would have been awkward if I couldn’t bring myself to touch the sequel. )
(I received the first two books in a giveaway, and all opinions are Of Course my own!)
There were a lot of flaws, especially earlier-to-later, clearly tracing the writer's growth. Some people might not be able to get past that; but if you're able to read with an open mind and a big pinch of salt on 'what should be' I found these tales fun and entertaining, in a way that I'm usually not exposed to much. Even a little bit wacky, if that's the right word for it.
(Would I now like a steady diet of this? No. But it was a lighthearted change, something totally different.)
Blood Ties: Modern Tales of Na Fianna, Book 1
The Modern Tales of Na Fianna is something the likes of which I hadn’t personally seen. The entire concept of black leather clad, part-Fae, elite Irish warriors in Ashton Martins and Ferraris just struck me as something that wouldn’t appeal at all to me... and yet somehow the sheer weirdness of it won me over without my agreeing to it.
I can’t even really explain the charm, but it is undeniably there, and I found these to be ‘feel good’ books in the very oddest way, (in spite of several significant torture scenes in Book 1; which I always loath that kind of scene. If a book wants that to happen, better be off screen for this reader.)
The trio begins sluggishly with a clearly amateurish hand at the pen, a lot of suspension of disbelief required for the plot, and characters that seem revoltingly juvenile even for teens... especially in that they’re the only ones left to fight in a war that has killed or crippled everyone older then they.
(Except for the obnoxious, paunchy king of the sub-kingdom. He’s still alive, and never been to a battle if everyone’s jibes are to be believed. *Excuse me; how is he still king?* Never mind...)
The plot of rescuing a patrol captured by goblins six months ago manages to enlist sympathies even when the MCs fall prey to over worn trope syndrome right and left; from angsty miscommunications to petty squabbling with the team while on a mission through enemy territory, the action unfolds like a gaggle of mal-adjusted teenagers at a role-playing game in the basement.
Not much like an actual, real life, death is on the line, military venture. (I don’t care how young, real death has a way of sobering people right up.)
That being said, Book 1 barely scraps itself over the rocks of the battering seashore to hold onto its somewhat conflicted charm... of partial Fae teens up against an ancient Goblin enemy. The theme has an undeniable intrigue, and rescuing pummeled family members is always a compelling ‘save the cat’.
Somehow the triviality in the MCs, and the predictable, “called it last week!” unfolding of their emotional journeys, can’t quite sink the premise in spite of themselves.
And in spite of the characters appalling frivolity, and logic-defying choices in the midst of what is tantamount to a cold war situation, the plot clings on to my interest like a wounded man hanging out of a life support helicopter at is hightails it out of the war zone.
In the end, the patient is actually saved, and I sincerely wanted to read the next book. (Handy thing, because I actually had the next book. It would have been awkward if I couldn’t bring myself to touch the sequel. )
(I received the first two books in a giveaway, and all opinions are Of Course my own!)
January 15, 2023
So satisfying! I enjoyed the characters: their maturity and humor. I loved the falling action, the pacing of the whole book, and the overall mix of fight scenes (really lovely fight scenes!) and character development.
I see myself re-reading this one often.
I see myself re-reading this one often.
June 7, 2021
Initial Response
That. Was. AWESOME.
High Lights
- I don't even know how to review this.
- I love, love, LOVED the characters, I thought Ciran was a great protagonist and he DIDN'T MAKE DUMB DECISIONS, which seems to be a running theme in YA books. Keevan and Riordan were adorable, Eamon was wonderful, even Deaglan grew on me. They were all really well-rounded and I felt like they all had unique personalities.
- I felt like I learned a lot about Irish lore! All of the interesting names and customs tossed in were so epic, and I was also really thankful there was a pronunciation guide...XD
- The suspense was PAINFUL, but it made the action scenes so much better, knowing what was at stake.
- THAT ENDING. OH MY GOSH.
Low Lights
- I feel a bit like the climax was rushed a bit? Like, it was sorted out really easily, the heroes won, and the bad guys lost.
Conclusion
If you're looking for an interesting Irish folkloric/contemporary fantasy book, I would definitely recommend this one! There's great characters, great action, and touching moments that will give you all the feels.
4/5.
That. Was. AWESOME.
High Lights
- I don't even know how to review this.
- I love, love, LOVED the characters, I thought Ciran was a great protagonist and he DIDN'T MAKE DUMB DECISIONS, which seems to be a running theme in YA books. Keevan and Riordan were adorable, Eamon was wonderful, even Deaglan grew on me. They were all really well-rounded and I felt like they all had unique personalities.
- I felt like I learned a lot about Irish lore! All of the interesting names and customs tossed in were so epic, and I was also really thankful there was a pronunciation guide...XD
- The suspense was PAINFUL, but it made the action scenes so much better, knowing what was at stake.
- THAT ENDING. OH MY GOSH.
Low Lights
- I feel a bit like the climax was rushed a bit? Like, it was sorted out really easily, the heroes won, and the bad guys lost.
Conclusion
If you're looking for an interesting Irish folkloric/contemporary fantasy book, I would definitely recommend this one! There's great characters, great action, and touching moments that will give you all the feels.
4/5.
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