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The Milesians #3
After Gáirech
The battle of Gáirech is over; Medb’s armies have been destroyed! Survivors are ravaging the Five Kingdoms in search of the riches they were promised!
While working to bring peace, Cathbadh is murdered and dies in Genonn’s arms. Genonn vows to avenge his father. But, with the culprits locked away in their fastnesses, to break them out, he needs Elder Council approval, and they will not provide it without proof.
Genonn needs Conall to help get the proof, but Conall is gone, searching for the head of Cú Chulainn. So Genonn sets out to find him, aided by the beautiful Fedelm, the capricious Lee Flaith, and the stalwart Bradán.
Bernard Cornwell meets Ellis Peters in this historical murder mystery.
While working to bring peace, Cathbadh is murdered and dies in Genonn’s arms. Genonn vows to avenge his father. But, with the culprits locked away in their fastnesses, to break them out, he needs Elder Council approval, and they will not provide it without proof.
Genonn needs Conall to help get the proof, but Conall is gone, searching for the head of Cú Chulainn. So Genonn sets out to find him, aided by the beautiful Fedelm, the capricious Lee Flaith, and the stalwart Bradán.
Bernard Cornwell meets Ellis Peters in this historical murder mystery.
351 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2021
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
November 15, 2021
Firstly I want to thank @p_l_hughes
For sending me a copy of this wonderful story of Irish History.
After Gairech is an Irish historical fiction novel set during the aftermath of the battle of Gairech involving the 5 kingdoms of Ireland. This was something very different for me. While I am familiar with this era of Irish history / myth, this was my first proper venture into it. To start, this book is rich in history, while there are numerous reports of the stories of this era, due to there being little written evidence of these events, Cladain takes some poetic license to draft together a very interesting, rich and engaging story that features a number of well known, unique and interesting characters.
The book takes a bit of time to find its footing, the first few chapters throw a lot of characters, information and history at the reader through a number of POVs, however there's an excellent bit of background information in the prelude, as well as a glossary of characters and terms to give those more unfamiliar, a bit more context if needed.
The middle and second half of the book really picks up, we see the seeds planted, and the story really starts to take shape, some POVs stories merge and we follow a band of characters through a dangerous, and unpredictable Ireland on a mission to avenge the murder of a respected druid. This book has a bit of everything, there's action, mystery, politics, espionage and excellently crafted (and very Irish) dialogue.
I've found a new era or historical fiction I plan to read more into, Cladain has a number of books around this era and on many of the characters in this story.
For sending me a copy of this wonderful story of Irish History.
After Gairech is an Irish historical fiction novel set during the aftermath of the battle of Gairech involving the 5 kingdoms of Ireland. This was something very different for me. While I am familiar with this era of Irish history / myth, this was my first proper venture into it. To start, this book is rich in history, while there are numerous reports of the stories of this era, due to there being little written evidence of these events, Cladain takes some poetic license to draft together a very interesting, rich and engaging story that features a number of well known, unique and interesting characters.
The book takes a bit of time to find its footing, the first few chapters throw a lot of characters, information and history at the reader through a number of POVs, however there's an excellent bit of background information in the prelude, as well as a glossary of characters and terms to give those more unfamiliar, a bit more context if needed.
The middle and second half of the book really picks up, we see the seeds planted, and the story really starts to take shape, some POVs stories merge and we follow a band of characters through a dangerous, and unpredictable Ireland on a mission to avenge the murder of a respected druid. This book has a bit of everything, there's action, mystery, politics, espionage and excellently crafted (and very Irish) dialogue.
I've found a new era or historical fiction I plan to read more into, Cladain has a number of books around this era and on many of the characters in this story.
October 14, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ When I was asked if I would like to read an ARC of After Gáirech by Micheál Cladáin I jumped at the chance. Irish mythology has always fascinated me, especially when it comes to The Ulster Cycle (a heroic Irish saga), but this is the first time I have come across a recent fictional retelling that delivers a plausible and enjoyable story based upon the ancient myths and the 'historical" heroic characters from that era.
The Five Kingdoms (it does sound like a Tolkien novel, but unlike Tolkien, Cladáin depict's the real Middle Earth) is a land of brave warriors, pagan worship, and unfortunately, political instability. It is a land at war, a land where wealth was measured in cattle. This time is so vastly different to our own, that it reads like fantasy, and in a way, I guess that is what it is, but underneath these legendary characters, one hopes for a gain of truth. I thought Cladáin breathed life back into these long-dead heroes and I really enjoyed reading about his interpretation of events.
I thought this book had a lot to offer and it was a thoroughly entertaining read from beginning to end. As one would expect from a violent time, violence is depicted, but there are also lighter, more amusing moments, much like in The Ulster Cycle, which made the story more rounded and believable.
I have no hesitation in recommending this novel. I was enthralled from the beginning to the very end, and it is certainly a novel that I can see myself reading again.
*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
The Five Kingdoms (it does sound like a Tolkien novel, but unlike Tolkien, Cladáin depict's the real Middle Earth) is a land of brave warriors, pagan worship, and unfortunately, political instability. It is a land at war, a land where wealth was measured in cattle. This time is so vastly different to our own, that it reads like fantasy, and in a way, I guess that is what it is, but underneath these legendary characters, one hopes for a gain of truth. I thought Cladáin breathed life back into these long-dead heroes and I really enjoyed reading about his interpretation of events.
I thought this book had a lot to offer and it was a thoroughly entertaining read from beginning to end. As one would expect from a violent time, violence is depicted, but there are also lighter, more amusing moments, much like in The Ulster Cycle, which made the story more rounded and believable.
I have no hesitation in recommending this novel. I was enthralled from the beginning to the very end, and it is certainly a novel that I can see myself reading again.
*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
October 13, 2021
4.5 STARS
There is a massive cast of characters in this novel, and it was only after I had read this book that I realised it was Book 3 in The Milesians series. As I read through the first couple of chapters I have to admit that I was incredibly confused as to who everyone was and what was happening. If it had not been for the extensive cast list in the front of this novel I don't think I would have been able to carry on reading as it was just so confusing. However, saying that, once I began to understand who everyone was and what role they had to play in this story, I found myself less confused and more intrigued.
The story is quite fast-paced, and the action is non-stop. The political intrigue, the uncertainty of who was friend and who was foe gave this novel a sharp edge and it certainly helped to drive the story forward.
As the story is based on mythology, I wasn't surprised that this novel had a kind of Middle Earth feel to it. There are powerful druids, mighty warriors - all of which are depicted with a great level of skill. And although at times, the writing came across as very modern, I did get a sense of what it must have felt like to live during this period of history.
The extensive notes at the back of the book also made for some interesting reading. I have never really thought all that much about how a historical fiction author approaches an era where next to nothing had been written down. Cladáin has done a good job of trying to fill in the historical setting with what is known.
if you are interested in Irish mythology then I think this series would certainly appeal, although I would advise with starting at the beginning with book 1, just so you will avoid the confusion that I initially had.
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club. I was under no obligation to leave a review.
There is a massive cast of characters in this novel, and it was only after I had read this book that I realised it was Book 3 in The Milesians series. As I read through the first couple of chapters I have to admit that I was incredibly confused as to who everyone was and what was happening. If it had not been for the extensive cast list in the front of this novel I don't think I would have been able to carry on reading as it was just so confusing. However, saying that, once I began to understand who everyone was and what role they had to play in this story, I found myself less confused and more intrigued.
The story is quite fast-paced, and the action is non-stop. The political intrigue, the uncertainty of who was friend and who was foe gave this novel a sharp edge and it certainly helped to drive the story forward.
As the story is based on mythology, I wasn't surprised that this novel had a kind of Middle Earth feel to it. There are powerful druids, mighty warriors - all of which are depicted with a great level of skill. And although at times, the writing came across as very modern, I did get a sense of what it must have felt like to live during this period of history.
The extensive notes at the back of the book also made for some interesting reading. I have never really thought all that much about how a historical fiction author approaches an era where next to nothing had been written down. Cladáin has done a good job of trying to fill in the historical setting with what is known.
if you are interested in Irish mythology then I think this series would certainly appeal, although I would advise with starting at the beginning with book 1, just so you will avoid the confusion that I initially had.
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club. I was under no obligation to leave a review.
January 19, 2023
I recently finished reading After Gáirech by Micheál Cladáin. As the title hints, After Gáirech is set during the aftermath of the battle of Gáirech, which involved the five kingdoms of pre-Christian Ireland. This is not a topic I am well-versed in, however having read the first two books in the series, I am familiar with the main characters and found this story easy to follow.
Like the first two books, the story itself is told with a truly Irish flare, with use of (well defined) Gaelic terminology and language that set the scene well. I am a big fan of authentic terminology in books and feel that the use of such words, character and place names make this story stand out. Despite not speaking a single word of Gaelic, I was able to easily follow the story, thanks to the clear definitions provided.
Like much of the pre-Christian era, little is known of the time in which this tale is set. Despite this, Cladáin has done an admirable job of piecing together the legends to create a believable, entertaining story. As in the previous two books, the pages are packed with action, suspense, and the same level of back-stabbing politics one might expect from an episode of Game of Thrones.
Micheál Cladáin, with this book and the other two of the series, has introduced me to a new era of history – one that I know almost nothing about – and has made me want to learn more. If that isn’t the sign of great historical fiction, then what is?
Thanks, Micheál, for this excellent read.
Like the first two books, the story itself is told with a truly Irish flare, with use of (well defined) Gaelic terminology and language that set the scene well. I am a big fan of authentic terminology in books and feel that the use of such words, character and place names make this story stand out. Despite not speaking a single word of Gaelic, I was able to easily follow the story, thanks to the clear definitions provided.
Like much of the pre-Christian era, little is known of the time in which this tale is set. Despite this, Cladáin has done an admirable job of piecing together the legends to create a believable, entertaining story. As in the previous two books, the pages are packed with action, suspense, and the same level of back-stabbing politics one might expect from an episode of Game of Thrones.
Micheál Cladáin, with this book and the other two of the series, has introduced me to a new era of history – one that I know almost nothing about – and has made me want to learn more. If that isn’t the sign of great historical fiction, then what is?
Thanks, Micheál, for this excellent read.
December 8, 2022
I knew from the cover I'd like this one!
I did. I do. Class.
I did. I do. Class.
September 8, 2021
“After Gáirech” is the third installment ‘The Milesians’ series by Micheál Cladáin a very well written historical roman, which delves into Ireland mythological sources and brings to life the legendary characters, bestowing them humanity and making them fully relatable, real flesh and blood characters, fully embodied in their historical context at the turn of the common era. Micheál Cladáin reminds of Ellis Peters (Brother Cadfael Chronicles) procedurals and Peter Tremayne (Sister Fidelma Mysteries) outstanding story knowledge, while having a wholly original story telling and a profound understanding of Irish mythology, that allows him to transport the reader into the time to meet the real person behind the ‘legends’ and witness a period of Irish history that usually is only encountered in myth and legends.
“After Gáirech” follows Gennonn, who after the battle of Gáirech, struggles to bring to justice the murders of his father (Cathbadh, a member of the Elder Council), who hide in their states. The Council of Elders demands proof of the deed, a proof Genonn can only find with Connall’s help, who is gone looking for Cú Chulainn’s head, and thus to be able to present his proof before the Elders and avenge his father, Genonn must first find Connall. A party of four composed of Genonn, Bradán (a warrior tasked with protecting late Cathbadh), Lee Flaith (son of High King Connaire), and Fedelm (a seeress in training) embarks into the quest to find Connall and bring the necessary proof before the Elder Council.
A wonderful, interesting, knowledgeable yet fully entertaining story, which will satisfy readers acquainted with Irish mythology, and those without any previous familiarity with the stories alike.
“After Gáirech” follows Gennonn, who after the battle of Gáirech, struggles to bring to justice the murders of his father (Cathbadh, a member of the Elder Council), who hide in their states. The Council of Elders demands proof of the deed, a proof Genonn can only find with Connall’s help, who is gone looking for Cú Chulainn’s head, and thus to be able to present his proof before the Elders and avenge his father, Genonn must first find Connall. A party of four composed of Genonn, Bradán (a warrior tasked with protecting late Cathbadh), Lee Flaith (son of High King Connaire), and Fedelm (a seeress in training) embarks into the quest to find Connall and bring the necessary proof before the Elder Council.
A wonderful, interesting, knowledgeable yet fully entertaining story, which will satisfy readers acquainted with Irish mythology, and those without any previous familiarity with the stories alike.
October 19, 2021
A wonderful story with unforgettable characters and a plot that kept me reading well into the night. I adored the way the author has captured the very essence of this era. The mythological aspect of this novel was carefully written but there is a strong sense of historical realism throughout.
Micheál Cladáin is a new author for me. I will certainly be checking out his other books at a later date.
I think this book would especially appeal to fans of Michael Hirst's Vikings.
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club. I was under no obligation to leave a review.
Micheál Cladáin is a new author for me. I will certainly be checking out his other books at a later date.
I think this book would especially appeal to fans of Michael Hirst's Vikings.
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club. I was under no obligation to leave a review.
October 21, 2021
📚📚📚📚 = A really great read.
Irish mythology is often overlooked, or perhaps it is better to say there is so little known about the ancient tribes for Irland that not many authors have dared to compose a story set during this time. Also, this period is surrounded by myths and an almost embedded ancestral understanding of what we think a Druid was - dark magicians to be feared. Micheál Cladáin has come away from this perspective and penned a novel that is more akin to the historical truth.
I did initially really struggle with the opening chapters of this novel, so much so that I put the book aside and read another. But, I am never one to give up on a book so before I picked it up again I decided to do a little research (thank goodness for Wikipedia). Once I had some understanding of this era and, more importantly, The Ulster Cycle, I picked this novel up again, and I am so glad I did!
This story is compelling and on the second reading, I found it near on impossible to put down. I thought the characters were depicted with a historical brilliance, and I certainly enjoyed immersing myself in the history.
All in all this novel was a really great read, but if you are not familiar with the era then I do advise you spend a little time researching this period before you start this book.
*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
Irish mythology is often overlooked, or perhaps it is better to say there is so little known about the ancient tribes for Irland that not many authors have dared to compose a story set during this time. Also, this period is surrounded by myths and an almost embedded ancestral understanding of what we think a Druid was - dark magicians to be feared. Micheál Cladáin has come away from this perspective and penned a novel that is more akin to the historical truth.
I did initially really struggle with the opening chapters of this novel, so much so that I put the book aside and read another. But, I am never one to give up on a book so before I picked it up again I decided to do a little research (thank goodness for Wikipedia). Once I had some understanding of this era and, more importantly, The Ulster Cycle, I picked this novel up again, and I am so glad I did!
This story is compelling and on the second reading, I found it near on impossible to put down. I thought the characters were depicted with a historical brilliance, and I certainly enjoyed immersing myself in the history.
All in all this novel was a really great read, but if you are not familiar with the era then I do advise you spend a little time researching this period before you start this book.
*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
October 19, 2021
Can a man be avenged when a country is at war?
I have to admit I know next to nothing about Irish mythology. I was hoping that I would be taken on a journey of discovery when I read this book, and I am pleased to report that that is exactly what happened.
I really liked the writing style, and the short chapters made this novel feel like an incredibly fast read. The story itself comes across as very real in the telling, and although there were a few times when I needed to stop and go back to the character list at the front of the book, it was a book that I found vastly entertaining.
I thought the depiction of Queen Medb was fabulous. She is both feared and respected. This powerful warrior queen often leaves the main characters perplexed - did she do it, did she not? What scheme is hers and what is not?! I also thought the depiction of Conall the renowned warrior, was also brilliantly written.
I thought this novel was amazing. If you like historical fiction set in the ancient/pagan past, then this novel will be right up your street.
*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
I have to admit I know next to nothing about Irish mythology. I was hoping that I would be taken on a journey of discovery when I read this book, and I am pleased to report that that is exactly what happened.
I really liked the writing style, and the short chapters made this novel feel like an incredibly fast read. The story itself comes across as very real in the telling, and although there were a few times when I needed to stop and go back to the character list at the front of the book, it was a book that I found vastly entertaining.
I thought the depiction of Queen Medb was fabulous. She is both feared and respected. This powerful warrior queen often leaves the main characters perplexed - did she do it, did she not? What scheme is hers and what is not?! I also thought the depiction of Conall the renowned warrior, was also brilliantly written.
I thought this novel was amazing. If you like historical fiction set in the ancient/pagan past, then this novel will be right up your street.
*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
May 31, 2022
From the outset, I was completely enthralled by this story, with one caveat - it did take me a while to sort out the characters and the storyline and it wasn't until about a third way into the book that I finally said, "oh, okay, I get what is happening" - and after that, I am so glad I stuck it out, but I must say that I think the first books need to be read before this one to get an overall understanding of what is going on.
The narrative is rich and full-bodied like a deep dark ale guzzled in a dark tavern somewhere in ancient Ireland. and this legend-come-to-life is one I was not familiar with but am now hooked in knowing more (the other books are now in my TBR list). You can definitely get the sense of the author's passion for Ireland and the research, wow, the immense research he must have done to bring this to life is simply astounding. I truly felt as if I was reading actual history instead of a myth/history, and I highlighted an entire chapter as one of my favorites - that of the encounter between the Cailleach, Queen Medb and Conell - that glued me to each and every word in anticipation.
The second passage I adored was from the "Storyteller" chapter - "How could he tell them there was no glory in battle? All they saw was the shiny helmets, the mail coats, golden torcs and armbands; the riches and the banter, men and women who enjoyed their lives. How could he explain to those who toiled all day in a field, it came at a price? How could he tear apart their dreams, telling them battle held only blood, sh*t, and the screams of the dying, all calling for their mothers in the agony of their final moments?...." and more... just read it, you will be simply captivated. These brief excerpts give you an idea of the profound depth and storytelling ability of Micheal Cladain. Read this book... you won't regret it!
I received a copy from The Coffee Pot Book Club for a review on this blog tour.
The narrative is rich and full-bodied like a deep dark ale guzzled in a dark tavern somewhere in ancient Ireland. and this legend-come-to-life is one I was not familiar with but am now hooked in knowing more (the other books are now in my TBR list). You can definitely get the sense of the author's passion for Ireland and the research, wow, the immense research he must have done to bring this to life is simply astounding. I truly felt as if I was reading actual history instead of a myth/history, and I highlighted an entire chapter as one of my favorites - that of the encounter between the Cailleach, Queen Medb and Conell - that glued me to each and every word in anticipation.
The second passage I adored was from the "Storyteller" chapter - "How could he tell them there was no glory in battle? All they saw was the shiny helmets, the mail coats, golden torcs and armbands; the riches and the banter, men and women who enjoyed their lives. How could he explain to those who toiled all day in a field, it came at a price? How could he tear apart their dreams, telling them battle held only blood, sh*t, and the screams of the dying, all calling for their mothers in the agony of their final moments?...." and more... just read it, you will be simply captivated. These brief excerpts give you an idea of the profound depth and storytelling ability of Micheal Cladain. Read this book... you won't regret it!
I received a copy from The Coffee Pot Book Club for a review on this blog tour.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews