⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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.
The battle of Gáirech is over; the armies of Connachta, Lagin, and Mumu are destroyed! Survivors are ravaging The Five Kingdoms of Ireland!
While working to resolve the Kingdoms’ issues and bring peace, Cathbadh is murdered, dying in his son Genonn’s arms. Genonn vows to avenge the death of his father.
For his revenge to work, he needs Conall Cernach and the Red Branch warriors of Ulster. But Conall is gone, searching for the head of Cú Chulainn. Genonn sets out to find him, aided by the beautiful Fedelm, the capricious Lee Fliath and the stalwart Bradán.
If you would like to read this book then you can head over to Amazon (UK, US, CA, AU) to find your copy. This book is also free to read if you have #kindleUnlimited subscription.
Micheál Cladáin studied the classics and developed a love of ancient civilizations during those studies. Learning about ancient Roman and Greek cultures was augmented by a combined sixteen years living in those societies, albeit the modern versions, in Cyprus and Italy. As such, Micheál decided to write historical fiction, trying to follow in the footsteps of such greats as Bernard Cornwell and Conn Iggulden. Because of his Irish roots, he chose pre-Christian Ireland as his setting, rather than ancient Italy or Greece.
Micheál is a full-time writer, who lives in the wilds of Wexford with his wife and their border terriers, Ruby and Maisy.
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