Ewan Colin Coupar and a Touch of the Fae

by Carl R Peterson, Kirstin Noel Dorshimer (Illustrations)

In a new take on old tales, Carl R. Peterson combines fact, folklore, and fantasy into Ewan Colin Coupar and a Touch of the Fae, a story featuring a cast of Rockkin, Elves, Brownies, and Urisks, among other faerie folk, who mingle with humans in our own world. These encounters result in children who have a “touch of the Fae” through bloodline or other connections. Among these special children is Ewan Colin Coupar, a young boy who grew up in England but has now returned to his birthplace in Greenock, Scotland. Amid the tumultuous post-WWII atmosphere, he is delighted to find an escape from his worldly troubles in the wondrous realm of the Fae. Joining a number of kindred spirits—other children who possess a touch of the Fae as well as a minister pursuing his interest in faerie beings in spite of his faith—Ewan embarks on several adventures and befriends many faeries, including a Druid spirit named Winthrop. Little do they know that sinister forces are at work, seeking to steal the secrets of the past and the ancient knowledge of the Fae. Can Ewan and his friends put a stop to their malevolent plans?

174 pages, Paperback

Published January 12, 2017

Reviews

[Pam]

A nice idea in this self-published book. The short novel might especially be liked by pre and young teens who like Harry Potter. The story follows Ewan Colin Coupar, a young Scots/English lad who discovers through his Gran and a friendly rock (rockkin) that he has a touch of the fae..ancient bloodlines shared with fairy folk. It turns out that a number of others are also touched and that there are hosts of usually invisible fairies, witches and other beings from the folklore of Scotland.

One fault obvious to me is that the author tends to tell instead of show. That dulls the narrative to a degree.

Be careful where you step and what you say. They seem to be all around and in great numbers too!

[Karen Warnick]

I am familiar with Carl Peterson as being a Scottish entertainer and know he has a flair for storytelling. Seeing a book written by him piqued my interest for those reasons. His storytelling ability has translated well to paper and his book is well-written. Well-written includes proper grammar, the use of dialect in the dialogue, and the plot.
I appreciate Ewan Colin Coupar and a Touch of the Fae for its intriguing exploration of Scottish folklore. The characters are gradually introduced, and the chapters are short. Both of these make for a novel that is a quick and easy read. I'm looking forward to a sequel that is sure to be written.
Since Ewan, the main character, is 5, the writing is appropriate for older children as well as adults.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who desires an enjoyable, worthwhile read and/or would like to learn more about Scottish folklore.