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The Deathless Chronicle #1
Celts and the Mad Goddess
Mocked by her Celtic tribe, the beautiful yet outlandish Rawena longs for affection—and meets a goddess who seeks to rid the world of humans.
That encounter hurls Rawena onto a path of dazzling adventures, deadly perils, and earthly and supernatural battles. In her town, a ritual hearth awaits her to cleanse her soul from the goddess’s touch. In the surrounding woods, she must run and hide from Germanic invaders.
Even when an incredible twist of fate helps her find a semblance of peace and love, Rawena must stay on high alert. Her adversaries are still after her and the goddess wants her to make an impossible decision: preserve her own humanity or save the human race.
That encounter hurls Rawena onto a path of dazzling adventures, deadly perils, and earthly and supernatural battles. In her town, a ritual hearth awaits her to cleanse her soul from the goddess’s touch. In the surrounding woods, she must run and hide from Germanic invaders.
Even when an incredible twist of fate helps her find a semblance of peace and love, Rawena must stay on high alert. Her adversaries are still after her and the goddess wants her to make an impossible decision: preserve her own humanity or save the human race.
- GenresFantasy
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2020
10 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
P.C. Darkcliff
31 books68 followersReceive my free novella for joining my mailing list: www.pcdarkcliff.com/subscribe
I started my fiction career in kindergarten when I convinced my classmates that my grandma was a tribal shamaness. Then I learned my letters, and kidding my friends no longer seemed adequate—so I started writing fantasy. That evolved into a lifelong passion, resulting in over ten books and three writing awards.
Apart from publishing two standalone novels and a historical fantasy trilogy, I have fulfilled my childhood dream and completed two epic fantasy series, The Magic Circle and Shattered Empire.
My stories have appeared in numerous publications, and "A Poisoned Gift" received an Honorable Mention in the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future Contest. I am Spillwords Author of the Year 2020.
I have lived in six countries and on three continents. While it burned a hole in my bank account, the seminomadic lifestyle has inspired most of my stories and novels. My wife and I have settled in Spain, where I go swimming and cycling whenever I’m not too busy writing and teaching English.
I started my fiction career in kindergarten when I convinced my classmates that my grandma was a tribal shamaness. Then I learned my letters, and kidding my friends no longer seemed adequate—so I started writing fantasy. That evolved into a lifelong passion, resulting in over ten books and three writing awards.
Apart from publishing two standalone novels and a historical fantasy trilogy, I have fulfilled my childhood dream and completed two epic fantasy series, The Magic Circle and Shattered Empire.
My stories have appeared in numerous publications, and "A Poisoned Gift" received an Honorable Mention in the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future Contest. I am Spillwords Author of the Year 2020.
I have lived in six countries and on three continents. While it burned a hole in my bank account, the seminomadic lifestyle has inspired most of my stories and novels. My wife and I have settled in Spain, where I go swimming and cycling whenever I’m not too busy writing and teaching English.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 21, 2020
It took a few days to read, but this is most definitely the best work from p.c darkcliffe that I've read. Im left chomping at the bit for more. Very immersive and brilliant characters, ill be keeping an eye out for book 2.
November 13, 2020
This is a brilliantly crafted historical fantasy novel. It takes place during the time of the Celts and features strong female characters. The main character Rawena is both a villain and victim which creates some incredible storytelling. I enjoyed every page of this book and I'm eagerly awaiting more installments in the series.
March 23, 2021
Celts and the Mad Goddess whisks the reader away to Celtic Bohemia in 14AD; a land peopled by Warriors, Ogres, Fair (and Foul) Maidens, Druidesses and a touch of fantasy. The story opens with eccentric yet beautiful Rawena, day-dreaming of Garux, the boy she loves. But, Garux loves her sister, Arvasia, and to make things worse, Rawena is about to come face to face with Pandemia, the rat-goddess who desperately needs a friend…
Historical fantasy is not a genre I normally read but I really enjoyed Celts and the Mad Goddess. It’s intelligently written, cleverly plotted and very amusing in places. There are three strands to the narrative. The first is Rawena’s unrequited love for Garux. This is sensitively handled and poignant throughout. It also forms the bedrock of the novel and its consequences lead to the apocalyptic situation in which Pandemia places Rawena, which is the second strand. The third is good old Celtic fighting against various invaders but part of that also has its roots with Rawena’s rage against Garux and Arvasia. The reader is completely immersed in the Celtic world with all its visceral filth. It’s incredibly atmospheric, authentic and deceptively detailed. The mythical element works strongly and could have been utilised even more.
Rawena is an intriguing character, although at the novel progresses, it is sometimes hard to pin down exactly on whose side she is but then I don’t think she knows; she hovers between right and wrong and, personally, I would have liked more definition in her development. Pandemia, the rat-goddess, is brilliantly, repulsively realised and written with such dimension that you felt sympathy for her and an uncomfortable sense of pathos emanating from her. She is humorous yet provides some thought-provoking wisdom pearls (especially in light of Covid and I though the nod to the Pandemic with her moniker was wryly astute). All of the characters are individually and deftly drawn. I felt compassion for Ortaver and some of the minor characters are hilarious, mired in their own moral and physical grime. Garux and Arvasia are strongly developed and well-placed to carry this series forward with Seneusia equally refined and possibly lined up to take the place of Agira, the Druidess.
Celts and the Mad Goddess has been written with a lot of depth and sustainability for the series which is refreshing. Some books of this genre are written for the author rather than reader and can, consequently be indulgent with unpronounceable names, flimsy plotting and completely over the top fantasy thematics – it still has to be credible even if it’s fantasy. P.C. Darkcliff has primarily considered the reader in this novel, maintaining integrity and believability, whilst also having a lot of imaginative fun as a writer. At times, there was a lot thrown in the narrative mix; it could have been a touch more concise but notwithstanding this is a faultlessly edited, well-crafted and engrossing historical fantasy. Highly recommended.
Historical fantasy is not a genre I normally read but I really enjoyed Celts and the Mad Goddess. It’s intelligently written, cleverly plotted and very amusing in places. There are three strands to the narrative. The first is Rawena’s unrequited love for Garux. This is sensitively handled and poignant throughout. It also forms the bedrock of the novel and its consequences lead to the apocalyptic situation in which Pandemia places Rawena, which is the second strand. The third is good old Celtic fighting against various invaders but part of that also has its roots with Rawena’s rage against Garux and Arvasia. The reader is completely immersed in the Celtic world with all its visceral filth. It’s incredibly atmospheric, authentic and deceptively detailed. The mythical element works strongly and could have been utilised even more.
Rawena is an intriguing character, although at the novel progresses, it is sometimes hard to pin down exactly on whose side she is but then I don’t think she knows; she hovers between right and wrong and, personally, I would have liked more definition in her development. Pandemia, the rat-goddess, is brilliantly, repulsively realised and written with such dimension that you felt sympathy for her and an uncomfortable sense of pathos emanating from her. She is humorous yet provides some thought-provoking wisdom pearls (especially in light of Covid and I though the nod to the Pandemic with her moniker was wryly astute). All of the characters are individually and deftly drawn. I felt compassion for Ortaver and some of the minor characters are hilarious, mired in their own moral and physical grime. Garux and Arvasia are strongly developed and well-placed to carry this series forward with Seneusia equally refined and possibly lined up to take the place of Agira, the Druidess.
Celts and the Mad Goddess has been written with a lot of depth and sustainability for the series which is refreshing. Some books of this genre are written for the author rather than reader and can, consequently be indulgent with unpronounceable names, flimsy plotting and completely over the top fantasy thematics – it still has to be credible even if it’s fantasy. P.C. Darkcliff has primarily considered the reader in this novel, maintaining integrity and believability, whilst also having a lot of imaginative fun as a writer. At times, there was a lot thrown in the narrative mix; it could have been a touch more concise but notwithstanding this is a faultlessly edited, well-crafted and engrossing historical fantasy. Highly recommended.
November 6, 2020
P.C. Darkcliff has another fast-paced novel. As in past novels, Darkcliff does as great job of representing occult lore; I loved the druidic elements, especially a grandmotherly figure Agira. His tragic themes are compelling, and he has, as ever, pitted the main characters against insurmountable odds. However, the female characters were a surprise this time. I often favor his creations, but Rawena wasn't necessarily the most likeable character, and she wasn't meant to be. The Goddess Pandemia was a surprise because her decisions seemed impulsive and childish, especially in the first 1/3 of the novel. In fact, I felt empathy for her, even though she was erratic and, well, mad. There was something about her love of rodents that was quite moving. Darkcliff's past antagonists have been downright evil and dignified, but Pandemia was different. In fact, that is one of the highlights of this piece as the immortals aren't what you would expect from a fantasy. Overall, a great read that will keep you up at night wanting to read more.
December 23, 2020
Filled with anticipation for a fantastic story, I expected adventure, an unpredictable story plot, a bevy of well-defined characters, and a “feel” for their surroundings — all delivered by an artist through fine writing.
What I got was — all of the above, plus a story that has stuck with me since finishing the book! I honestly dreamed about them the night I finished the book!
I could almost smell the putrid swamp. My mind’s eye saw Garux, Arvasia, and Rawena traveling on separate occasions down the merchant’s road at dusk, dawn, in the darkness of night, and in every location to which they traversed.
Darkcliff brought me to a different time and place with different customs, a very different twist on “goddesses”... and the “end” of the story.
I look forward to the next book in this series of three and will be reading Darkcliff’s first two novels, “The Priest of Orpagus” and “Deception of the Damned” while waiting.
I’m so glad I found this author!
What I got was — all of the above, plus a story that has stuck with me since finishing the book! I honestly dreamed about them the night I finished the book!
I could almost smell the putrid swamp. My mind’s eye saw Garux, Arvasia, and Rawena traveling on separate occasions down the merchant’s road at dusk, dawn, in the darkness of night, and in every location to which they traversed.
Darkcliff brought me to a different time and place with different customs, a very different twist on “goddesses”... and the “end” of the story.
I look forward to the next book in this series of three and will be reading Darkcliff’s first two novels, “The Priest of Orpagus” and “Deception of the Damned” while waiting.
I’m so glad I found this author!
October 4, 2020
“Celts and the Mad Goddess” introduces you to a world set in 14 AD. While escaping from intruders, Rawena accidentally wakes up the dangerous and terrifying goddess - Pandemia. Rawena seeks the help of her crush, Garux, only to find that he is in love with her sister, Arvasia. Rawena sees this as a betrayal and sets down a path of destruction that threatens to destroy the human race.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. The story has a great flow and I thought the characters of Pandemia and Arvesia were particularly well developed - providing a dichotomy of good and evil that leaves you questioning your alliance to each. However, I would have liked more development of the many sides of Rawena. While she plays a prominent and extremely important role, her personality becomes lost in her obsession with Garux. I look forward to future installments of the deathless chronicles and following what happens with Rawena, Arvesia, Garux, and Pandemia!
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. The story has a great flow and I thought the characters of Pandemia and Arvesia were particularly well developed - providing a dichotomy of good and evil that leaves you questioning your alliance to each. However, I would have liked more development of the many sides of Rawena. While she plays a prominent and extremely important role, her personality becomes lost in her obsession with Garux. I look forward to future installments of the deathless chronicles and following what happens with Rawena, Arvesia, Garux, and Pandemia!
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2021
I have just finished reading Celts and the Mad Goddess by P.C. Darkcliff and I must say that this is an incredible story. The author describes the mysterious dark ages with such skill and knowledge. I felt for all of the characters, celebrating their triumphs, sharing in the disappointment of their struggles and feeling as if I were a part of their daily lives. Darkcliff takes what is known or assumed to be known of this shrouded period of our history and weaves within it a wonderful story. Happy am I to know that this is merely book one of the Deathless Chronicle. I look forward to continuing to read of the adventures of Rawena, Garux and Pandemia and the quest to save humanity. Definitely a five star read!
October 21, 2020
Gosh, I love this story! I recommend when you sit down to read this book, you be ready to spend some time with it. It is one of those stories that is difficult to put out of your mind. As you are absorbed into the Celtic past and the implications for the future... P. C. Darkcliff has expertly woven vivid imagery into the emotional depth of his characters that you come to both love and hate. The theme is an eternal one... surviving against all odds... and hoping for a better tomorrow.
October 3, 2020
This is a great fantasy story including three dimensional characters and a wonderfull story world including some Celt mythological characters. The writting is really good. It's a fast read, the pacing and the story moves forward fast and never disappoints.
November 9, 2020
P.C. Darkcliff has a responsibility towards the characters in his books, and towards the readers - and he shoulders both in a remarkable manner. His latest offering sets an example in magical realism writing. Set to an intense beat that grips you, and draws you in, feeding your sense of wonder and amazement, the story flows seamlessly, making it a delight.
The timelines which the author explores, and the very much alive in your head characters and their peculiar instance based responses stay with you long after you've finished reading this masterpiece. P.C. Darkcliff is one modern writer who makes fantasy/magical realism come alive.
The timelines which the author explores, and the very much alive in your head characters and their peculiar instance based responses stay with you long after you've finished reading this masterpiece. P.C. Darkcliff is one modern writer who makes fantasy/magical realism come alive.
September 25, 2020
If you’re looking for an exciting story, this is it. While fleeing from marauding soldiers, young Celtic maiden Rawena stumbles into a festering swamp where she becomes sick and covered with oozing pustules. She is in the domain of Pandemia, the goddess of pestilence who also refers to herself as the queen of rats and rodents. Pandemia becomes enamored of Rawena and makes a deal with her – a deal that changes Rawena’s life and those around her forever. Thus begins the exciting tale of “Celts and the Mad Goddess.” Rawena loves Garux who loves her sister Arvasia, a messed-up love triangle if there ever was one. The three of them along with Pandemia form the core of this entertaining and wide-ranging saga which begins in 14 CE and ends four years later.
This is the third book by author P. C. Darkcliff. I’ve read them all and they just keep getting better. He has an incredible imagination which he puts to good use here. But he also has the writer’s chops to delve deep into his characters psyches, making you have feelings for them, a skill that gives this entertaining book an emotional grounding that sets it apart. As I read, I began to really care about Rawena and Garux and Arvasia, and, yes, even Pandemia. Mix love and jealousy with depot rulers, a hero or two, an evil goddess and the plague, and you have a page turner of a book that will stay with you long after you’ve finished this wonderfully entertaining tale. This is the first of a planned six or seven book series, and I eagerly await the next one. All of them, in fact. I highly recommend this novel and give it a well-deserved five stars.
This is the third book by author P. C. Darkcliff. I’ve read them all and they just keep getting better. He has an incredible imagination which he puts to good use here. But he also has the writer’s chops to delve deep into his characters psyches, making you have feelings for them, a skill that gives this entertaining book an emotional grounding that sets it apart. As I read, I began to really care about Rawena and Garux and Arvasia, and, yes, even Pandemia. Mix love and jealousy with depot rulers, a hero or two, an evil goddess and the plague, and you have a page turner of a book that will stay with you long after you’ve finished this wonderfully entertaining tale. This is the first of a planned six or seven book series, and I eagerly await the next one. All of them, in fact. I highly recommend this novel and give it a well-deserved five stars.
November 18, 2020
An Interesting Read
As soon as I started Celts and the Mad Goddess, I found myself enthralled with the characters and the historical accuracy weaved within the fantasy. The action keeps you reading on, even when you need to put the book down to get some sleep. P.C. Darkcliff is a masterful storyteller. You don't want to miss this. Excellent!
As soon as I started Celts and the Mad Goddess, I found myself enthralled with the characters and the historical accuracy weaved within the fantasy. The action keeps you reading on, even when you need to put the book down to get some sleep. P.C. Darkcliff is a masterful storyteller. You don't want to miss this. Excellent!
Read
November 24, 2020I love history, and the Celtic age is a favorite of mine. I was so happy to see the pains this author took to make his story accurate. During a pandemic, it was really interesting to read about another pandemic somewhere else. PC always makes his characters refreshing and interesting. They aren't caricatures, but people with real problems going through the same things we are going through right now. The fact that a few thousand years separates us - well, you don't really notice that. There is nothing jarring about the story. Unless you consider the large talking rat. Yup. A large, unfriendly talking rat. Read the series and enjoy it yourself. At least you don't have to wear a mask!
Waiting on the last book!
Waiting on the last book!
October 8, 2020
“In the first act, get your hero up a tree; in the second act throw stones at him.” The wild ride that is Celts and the Mad Goddess offers a rat goddess who can shift into human form, immortal beings, some great strong women characters in the druidess, a warrior, and the antagonists. Throw in a dash of plague, famine, war, pestilence, dungeons, prisoners, broad axes, sabers, sticks, honor, the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat. This is only the first book in a three-part series. I can’t wait to see what the author does in the next two books. You will not be disappointed. Great read!
October 26, 2020
It was such an amazing read. Fast-paced, action-packed, and full of wonderful characters. Even the baddies are so much fun!
February 4, 2021
Celtic sisters Rawena and Arvasia love the same man, Garux, but couldn't be more different. When Rawena accidentaly awakes the plague goddess Pandemia, and becomes a vehicle for the rat queen's plots against humanity, this love triangle spirals out of control, coming to threaten not only her tribe — the Boii — but all of first century Bohemia, and beyond!
P.C. Darkcliff takes this unlikely situation and spins a tale of love, sex, maddness, betrayl, and inter-tribal warfare. Rawena, Arvasia, and Garux are pitted against enemies both inside and outside their tribe, and also against each other, as their jealousies turn to murderous impulses. The book is filled with memorable characters: Ataran the cowardly chieftain, Agira the murderous druidess, and Tarnis the irrepressable warrior boy.
Celts and the Mad Goddess recreates the world of the early celts in broad strokes, keeping its eye on action and drama all the while, and offering a world where magic works, gods are visible to the waking eye, but the hardships of daily life are ever present. It may not be as historically accurate as a history text, but that's not the focus of this novel. The paradoxical figure of Pandemia, whose viewpoint spans the distant past and the modern future, provides a strange counterpoint to the daily strugles of the characters. By her intervention characters are saved, damed, and made immortal in turn.
Content warning: The book does touch on some issues, such as torture, abuse, rape, and miscarriage which might be challenging for some readers. It is a no-holds-barred view of history.
P.C. Darkcliff takes this unlikely situation and spins a tale of love, sex, maddness, betrayl, and inter-tribal warfare. Rawena, Arvasia, and Garux are pitted against enemies both inside and outside their tribe, and also against each other, as their jealousies turn to murderous impulses. The book is filled with memorable characters: Ataran the cowardly chieftain, Agira the murderous druidess, and Tarnis the irrepressable warrior boy.
Celts and the Mad Goddess recreates the world of the early celts in broad strokes, keeping its eye on action and drama all the while, and offering a world where magic works, gods are visible to the waking eye, but the hardships of daily life are ever present. It may not be as historically accurate as a history text, but that's not the focus of this novel. The paradoxical figure of Pandemia, whose viewpoint spans the distant past and the modern future, provides a strange counterpoint to the daily strugles of the characters. By her intervention characters are saved, damed, and made immortal in turn.
Content warning: The book does touch on some issues, such as torture, abuse, rape, and miscarriage which might be challenging for some readers. It is a no-holds-barred view of history.
March 16, 2021
nice one
Sorry mate, didn't have time to write a review, ive been far too busy reading and plotting. so i've just cut and pasted everybody else's words together to form a tapestry of finely stitched images...
FYI Just go read the journey for yourselves-
"Rawena loves Garux who loves her sister Arvasia, a messed-up love triangle if there ever was one.
The tale of dimples, Garux and Rowena is very well told and grips the reader I could almost smell the putrid swamp. My mind’s eye saw Garux, dimples, rowena traveling on separate occasions down the merchant’s road at dusk, dawn, in the darkness of night, and in every location to which they traversed, in ancient times of the Celts. Pandemia believes the world will be a better place without humans.
P. C. Darkcliff has expertly woven vivid imagery into the emotional depth of his characters that you come to both love and hate. The theme is an eternal one... surviving against all odds... and hoping for a better tomorrow."
look- COMING OUT IN 2021: CELTS AND THE GLADIATOR
enjoyed the read👍
Sorry mate, didn't have time to write a review, ive been far too busy reading and plotting. so i've just cut and pasted everybody else's words together to form a tapestry of finely stitched images...
FYI Just go read the journey for yourselves-
"Rawena loves Garux who loves her sister Arvasia, a messed-up love triangle if there ever was one.
The tale of dimples, Garux and Rowena is very well told and grips the reader I could almost smell the putrid swamp. My mind’s eye saw Garux, dimples, rowena traveling on separate occasions down the merchant’s road at dusk, dawn, in the darkness of night, and in every location to which they traversed, in ancient times of the Celts. Pandemia believes the world will be a better place without humans.
P. C. Darkcliff has expertly woven vivid imagery into the emotional depth of his characters that you come to both love and hate. The theme is an eternal one... surviving against all odds... and hoping for a better tomorrow."
look- COMING OUT IN 2021: CELTS AND THE GLADIATOR
enjoyed the read👍
March 28, 2021
While I read the occasional fantasy, it’s not usually my genre of choice. I picked up this book because of the title. I’ll read almost anything involving the Celtic people from whom I descend. I didn’t even realize the story revolved around first-century Celts.
I was impressed by how thoroughly the author understood the tribes of the time. It’s a fantasy, and a great one, but it got the facts straight, too. I really appreciated that.
The story drew me in from the beginning and held my attention until the end. I found myself looking forward to the end of the day when I could devour more. The story is action-packed suspense, driven by rich, well-rounded, relatable characters. Even the heroes are flawed, which only serves to ground them and make them believable. I also felt a bit of sympathy for the antagonists. Not only is this a wonderful fantasy, but it also has all the elements of a Greek tragedy.
No matter your favorite genre, I HIGHLY recommend adding this to your reading list. It’s just a GREAT story! I will read more from this author.
I was impressed by how thoroughly the author understood the tribes of the time. It’s a fantasy, and a great one, but it got the facts straight, too. I really appreciated that.
The story drew me in from the beginning and held my attention until the end. I found myself looking forward to the end of the day when I could devour more. The story is action-packed suspense, driven by rich, well-rounded, relatable characters. Even the heroes are flawed, which only serves to ground them and make them believable. I also felt a bit of sympathy for the antagonists. Not only is this a wonderful fantasy, but it also has all the elements of a Greek tragedy.
No matter your favorite genre, I HIGHLY recommend adding this to your reading list. It’s just a GREAT story! I will read more from this author.
January 5, 2021
Pandemia, a rat goddess, captures a local village girl, Rawena, in ancient times of the Celts. Pandemia believes the world will be a better place without humans so her plan to eradicate all of humanity unfolds. The goddess makes Rawena immortal and infects her, using her to set the plan in motion. Rawena loves her sister's lover. She resents their love believing he is meant to be hers. This will drive the plot. What choices will Rawena make? Will she set aside her desires and do what will save her people? You’ll have to read to find out. On top of that, an invading force seeks to conquer the area. It is an interesting tale filled with battle scenes and mild sexuality. Twists and turns keep the tale moving forward.
February 27, 2021
Not my usual genre to read, but I though the title was appealing, so I jumped in.
By page two I could see myself getting surprisingly curious, and by the end of the first chapter, I had a feeling of admiration.
The author really knows how to show not tell, which is refreshing, and also he has an incredible flare of descriptive visualization, drawing the reader into his world which I thought was brilliant. I liked the characters instantly, especially the love triangle at the beginning.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this author. It's clear he's on a mission to become an excellent writer and everything I have read so far suggests he is well on his way.
Overall: A very good read
By page two I could see myself getting surprisingly curious, and by the end of the first chapter, I had a feeling of admiration.
The author really knows how to show not tell, which is refreshing, and also he has an incredible flare of descriptive visualization, drawing the reader into his world which I thought was brilliant. I liked the characters instantly, especially the love triangle at the beginning.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this author. It's clear he's on a mission to become an excellent writer and everything I have read so far suggests he is well on his way.
Overall: A very good read
March 24, 2022
Celts and the Mad Goddess doesn’t have characters. It has plot points that talk, until almost halfway through the book when Ortaver invades, and then Garux finally has a motivation, which only lasts as long as Ortaver does.
But even then, there’s no consistency in the characters, almost as though there’s a very cool scene that HAS to happen, but we don’t have time for development, so feelings and decisions are changed all the time, almost on a chapter basis.
As thoughtful as the historical context, the fights, and the culture of the book is, it’s amazing how the lack of reason for any of it to happen drains it of almost all enjoyment.
But even then, there’s no consistency in the characters, almost as though there’s a very cool scene that HAS to happen, but we don’t have time for development, so feelings and decisions are changed all the time, almost on a chapter basis.
As thoughtful as the historical context, the fights, and the culture of the book is, it’s amazing how the lack of reason for any of it to happen drains it of almost all enjoyment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2020
This is the third book I've read written by P.C. Darkcliff, and this one, like the others, is a great mixture of fantasy, myth and adventure, that is rich in detail, historical context and with a heavy dose of imagination. The story is filled with characters that are unique, some very dark, that balance out one another between the forces of good and evil. I can't add anything that hasn't been said already, other than that P.C.'s novels will stand the test of time, but buy and read this one now, along with his others, and then stand back and watch this author's fame rise.
November 13, 2024
Celtic clan wars, love story, historical romance and the plague
A pestilence wielding goddess Pandemia wants to wipe the world out with the plague and warring Celtic clans makes for a suspenseful enchanting story. Battling sisters, family and friends fight for their lives. The storyline is superb. And the characters will keep you reading it. The love story of Garu and Arvasana is impossible and so important . This book is a quick read that will keep you guessing how it will end. Worth reading
A pestilence wielding goddess Pandemia wants to wipe the world out with the plague and warring Celtic clans makes for a suspenseful enchanting story. Battling sisters, family and friends fight for their lives. The storyline is superb. And the characters will keep you reading it. The love story of Garu and Arvasana is impossible and so important . This book is a quick read that will keep you guessing how it will end. Worth reading
January 25, 2021
Kudos to the author for providing a well researched novel involving love, hate, deceit, war, and faithfulness. From the first page, it is action packed as it involves you in the lives of the sometimes heroes, sometimes villains, but all well rounded characters. Note, this is the first book of a much anticipated series, so keep watch for Mr. Darkcliff's next book, which I am sure will be just a good, if not better than this one.
October 6, 2020
A tale of non-stop action and misfortune. This story chronicles the tragic life of a girl trapped in an unforgiving god's sick game. It kept me reading from beginning to end(?) and definitely left me wanting more. Bring on the next book in the series.
April 19, 2025
A Time to Live - A Time to Die
I believe this is the first book I’ve read by P.C. Darkcliff, but it likely won’t be the last! I’ve took my time reading this tale, and it has left me pondering future stories in this series, but most of all stories that I might write.
I believe this is the first book I’ve read by P.C. Darkcliff, but it likely won’t be the last! I’ve took my time reading this tale, and it has left me pondering future stories in this series, but most of all stories that I might write.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews