Blog Archives
The Dog Roses: Resolution
The Dog Roses: Resolution is a bold, blood-soaked dive into a myth-soaked world of ancient Ériu, dripping with power struggles, family betrayals, and queens who rule with both sword and seduction. It’s the second book in Millar’s Dog Roses series, and it doesn’t pull any punches. At the heart of it are two sisters, Brighid and Danu, daughters of legendary rulers who were meant to lead with wisdom but fell into tyranny and chaos. When their father sends their brothers to clean up the mess, all hell breaks loose. You’ve got ancient gods, cunning assassins, ruthless politics, and enough battle scenes to make a Roman general blush.
Millar’s writing punches hard right out of the gate. Chapter 1 left a powerful impression. Aoife storms into the Great Hall, a spear in hand with a child’s severed head mounted on its tip, demanding accountability. It’s a harrowing and unforgettable entrance, one that immediately grips the reader and sets the tone for the intensity that follows. It was brutal, but there was a righteous fury there, too. Aoife doesn’t come off as just a warrior; she’s grief incarnate. Millar writes these women not just as strong, but deeply human. They rage, they love, they crumble. Even when I didn’t agree with what they were doing, I understood why.
Then there’s the slow unraveling of power between Brighid and Danu. That sibling dynamic is pure gold. It’s petty, painful, political, and believable. Their kingdom starts off strong, but the infighting is like a slow poison. When Brighid retreats to Caher Conri and Danu digs in at Ráth Na Conall, you know the gods are rolling their eyes. But still, there’s a vulnerability there. Danu breaking down in front of her children reminded me that even tyrants can be broken mothers. And Brighid’s slow descent, especially when Báine pulls away, is just tragic. She’s not evil, she’s just… lost. And Millar gives her that space to unravel.
This book is loaded with action and not just sword fights. The tension hums constantly. Whether it’s Tisiphone gliding through a hall like a ghost with knives in her hair or Lonán calling kings cowards to their faces with that glorious, gruff “I’m too old for this” attitude, there’s never a dull moment. Daráine shaving her head and quietly outwitting men twice her age was one of my favorite low-key power moves. Every scene at the council table crackled with unspoken threats and old grudges. It felt like reading Game of Thrones but set in mythic Ireland, and it worked.
This book is not for the faint of heart. It’s violent, earthy, and unrelenting. But if you’re into Celtic fantasy that doesn’t tiptoe around darkness, The Dog Roses: Resolution will grip you and not let go. I’d recommend it to fans of Bernard Cornwell, lovers of Irish mythology, or anyone craving epic family drama with bite.
Pages: 422 | ASIN : B0D1WCM2NH
The Borealis Queen
The Borealis Queen by Henry Guard is an imaginative adventure set in a speculative Ice Age world, centered around Nin, a resilient young woman marked by a mysterious prophecy. Struggling against oppressive foes and navigating harsh landscapes, Nin embarks on a perilous journey that intertwines survival, destiny, and the forging of unexpected bonds.
I found myself captivated by Guard’s storytelling. His vivid descriptions, especially of Nin’s harrowing encounters with Gore, are so intense and emotional they kept me flipping pages, heart in throat. The opening scene in Chapter 1, where Nin is dragged through the snow by her hair, is brutal but powerfully written. It immediately connects readers with Nin’s defiant spirit despite her desperate circumstances.
One thing that stood out to me was the portrayal of relationships and unexpected alliances. Nin’s bond with Shadow, the fearsome Dagger Mouth Demon, genuinely moved me. The nuanced depiction of their connection—beginning with Nin’s compassionate rescue of Shadow as a pup and later reciprocated through his fierce loyalty—highlighted themes of empathy and interdependence. The moment Shadow saves Nin from Ursang was both thrilling and heartwarming, encapsulating the book’s underlying message about the power of kindness even amid brutality.
While I admired the strong character development, some sub-stories, like the detailed recounting of tribal rituals or backstory expositions, momentarily pulled me away from the main plot. Still, these slower sections offered rich cultural insights, and Guard’s enthusiasm for his created world shone through clearly.
The Borealis Queen is a compelling read with memorable characters and gripping emotional intensity. Guard does a fantastic job creating a world that’s both fantastical and believably harsh, making the stakes feel real and the victories genuinely rewarding. I’d recommend this book to readers who enjoy immersive fantasy with a gritty edge—particularly those who appreciate strong, complex heroines and intricate relationships set against vivid, unforgiving landscapes.
Pages: 395 | ASIN : B0DXH5MT1B
Forgotten Lore
Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch’s Rebirth follows a 16th century midwife accused of witchcraft and is thought to descend from a long line of ancestors with mystical powers. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
Genealogy is a passion of mine, and while tracing my family tree, I discovered several female ancestors accused of witchcraft. Intrigued, I focused on a pivotal period in history when witch persecution was escalating, particularly during the reign of James VI, who played a significant role in the deaths and persecution of accused witches. My story, Anna, is inspired by the real Ana Koldings (also known as Anna Koldings), a Danish woman who was the central figure in the Copenhagen Witch Trials and ultimately burned at the stake.
What is it that draws you to write historical fantasies?
I’m drawn to both the factual intrigue of history and the enchanting allure of fantasy, with its witches, dragons, and forgotten lore. The Merovingian period, in particular, captivates me with its air of mystery and the many influential figures who shaped its course. My desire to write The Witch’s Rebirth stems from wanting to introduce a character into this shadowy era, a figure who could act as a source of hope and resilience.
Do you have a favorite scene in Anna’s tale? One that was especially enjoyable to craft?
In The Witch’s Rebirth Series, Anna’s soul is reborn as Merona, arriving in 478 AD Septimania, Southern Gaul, without any recollection of her past lives spent in the Labyrinth of Shadows. The series follows her captivating transformation from a seemingly ordinary child into a powerful witch, a journey marked by significant personal growth. Merona is a compelling protagonist, a blend of vulnerability and strength, who bravely chooses to be a force of good against the growing darkness, despite not fully understanding the risks. At eleven years old, she confronts her antagonist, Armaeus, and defiantly declares, “Only I choose my destiny!” unleashing a surge of energy that shatters the encroaching shadows.
Can you give us a peek inside Book 2 in this series? Where will it take readers?
A sinister presence lurks in the shadows, a dark force wielding power that rivals hers. Born of the void, his otherworldly aura radiated a clear intent: to exploit the burgeoning chaos for his own destructive ends. His obsidian eyes burned with an insatiable hunger, promising only annihilation.
A cataclysmic earthquake erupted, unleashing dark clouds that surged across the Mediterranean like a wave of despair. From the shadows emerged the Four Horsemen – Famine, War, Pestilence, and Death – ready to claim their due. They would scour the land, leaving behind the desolate remnants of once-thriving civilizations, a bittersweet testament to their former glory.
Deep within this turmoil, cloaked in the labyrinth of encroaching shadows, the Witch stirred from her three-decade slumber. The world called upon her once more, a plea filled with desperate urgency. Her cauldron – the Cauldron of Dagda – offered salvation, though the path ahead was paved with unimaginable peril.
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In ancient Gaul, in the tumultuous year of 478 AD, a time of cosmic unrest and simmering power, whispers begin to stir. Whispers of a legend, a prophecy, and most importantly, whispers of the reborn Witch. The shadow of the rising Merovingian dynasty looms large, but a different power is stirring, one older and more potent than any king’s rule.
This Witch is not new to the world. This is not her first life, nor even her second. Throughout history, she has been a protector, a destroyer, a force of nature. Now, she is reborn of the ashes, emerging from the embers of past lives to face a new era. But what trials await her? Why has she been called back now? The answer lies buried in the labyrinth of shadows.
Prepare to be swept away as magic, history, and prophecy collide in a desperate battle for the very soul of humanity. Labyrinth of Shadows; The Witch’s Rebirth Part I will plunge you into a world of ancient secrets, forgotten lore, and the intoxicating allure of forbidden magic. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew, for this is just the beginning… and it will leave you wanting more.
Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch’s Rebirth
The Witch’s Rebirth by Michaela Riley is a gripping historical fantasy novel that weaves magic, destiny, and resistance into a dark and immersive tale. Set against the backdrop of 5th-century Gaul and later 16th-century Denmark, the novel follows Anna, a midwife accused of witchcraft and a lineage steeped in mystical power. The novel explores the rise and fall of rulers, ancient prophecies, and the enduring struggle between fate and free will. Through detailed storytelling, Riley transports readers into a world where history and myth blur, crafting an evocative journey of transformation and resilience.
From the very first pages, I was captivated by Riley’s ability to create atmosphere. The opening scene in which Anna is dragged through the streets of Copenhagen is harrowing and filled with raw fear and injustice. The sensory details—the cutting cobblestones, the jeering crowd, the smoke curling from the waiting pyre—make it impossible not to feel Anna’s dread. The historical weight of these events is palpable, and Anna’s silent suffering, followed by an unexpected, supernatural twist, sets the stage for an unforgettable transformation.
Beyond the immediate horror, what struck me most was how the novel balances its historical roots with elements of myth and magic. The story of the Merovingians, rumored to have fey blood and arcane abilities, adds a fascinating layer. The way Riley intertwines their supernatural legacy with real historical upheaval gives the book a sense of depth and authenticity. The legend of the Deep Ones, the whispers of ancient powers, and the role of the gods create an eerie and mystical undertone that lingers throughout the story. Clovis, the young Merovingian prince, emerges as a compelling counterpart to Anna’s journey, bound by destiny yet desperate to carve his own path. His curiosity about his origins mirrors Anna’s struggle against the fate others have forced upon her, making both storylines equally engrossing.
The writing itself is fluid and evocative and, at times, leans heavily into dramatic descriptions. The book thrives in its character-driven moments. One of my favorite aspects was Mairead, the priestess who guides the people of Gaul through prophecy and fear. Her presence grounds the novel, providing both wisdom and a sense of inevitability to the story. The villagers’ uncertainty and the looming dread of the supernatural made her chapters some of the strongest. Meanwhile, the antagonist, Armaeus, a daemon with his own dark ambitions, adds a layer of thrilling menace that keeps the stakes high.
Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch’s Rebirth is a layered tale that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, dark fantasy, and stories of witches reclaiming their power. If you love novels like The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova or The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow, this book is worth diving into. Riley delivers an intricate and haunting tale filled with mystery, magic, and the resilience of those history sought to erase.
Pages: 532 | ASIN : B0DTBLDNCX
The Dog Roses: Na Feirdhriseacha
David H. Millar’s The Dog Roses: Na Feirdhriseacha is an exhilarating historical fantasy that plunges the reader into a world of ancient Gaelic warfare, mysticism, and political intrigue. The novel follows the twin sisters, Brighid and Danu, as they navigate their birthright, destiny, and the brutal conflicts that define their world. From the stormy shores of Ériu to the blood-soaked battlegrounds of their homeland, the sisters must harness their strength, wit, and the mystical bond of the feirdhriseacha—the dog roses—imprinted on their chests. Their journey is one of leadership, betrayal, and resilience, all set against the backdrop of Celtic mythology and the harsh realities of Iron Age survival.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to immerse readers in a richly detailed and authentic world. Millar’s grasp of ancient Gaelic culture, from its warrior code to the complexities of clan politics, is impressive. The descriptions of battle are visceral, and the political maneuvering is sharp and unforgiving. The scene where Danu and Brighid are confronted with the weight of leadership at Ráth Na Conall is particularly compelling. The tension between personal desires and duty is palpable. The author builds an entire realm that feels as real as the history it is inspired by.
The dynamic between the twin protagonists is another element I liked. Their relationship is raw and full of conflict. Brighid’s impulsiveness and fiery spirit contrast beautifully with Danu’s calculated and strategic mind. Their clash in the Great Hall, where Draighean, their Sidhe mentor, berates them for their discord, is one of the novel’s most powerful moments. This moment, more than any other, encapsulates the novel’s emotional depth.
Millar’s writing style is both poetic and brutal, a balance that suits the novel’s tone perfectly. The action scenes are unflinchingly graphic, bringing the horrors of war to life in a way that is both mesmerizing and unsettling. The passage where Maolán faces off against the alpha wolf, Silverback, is a perfect example—nature and man, predator and prey, all locked in a desperate fight for survival. At times, the descriptions of violence and suffering push the boundaries of comfort, but they also serve a purpose, reinforcing the novel’s themes of endurance and the unrelenting nature of conflict.
The Dog Roses: Na Feirdhriseacha is a gripping read that will appeal to fans of historical fantasy, especially those with an interest in Celtic mythology and ancient warrior cultures. The depth of world-building, the complexity of the characters, and the sheer intensity of the storytelling make this a novel worth savoring. If you enjoy books like The Mists of Avalon or The Last Kingdom, this one should be on your list.
Pages: 365 | ASIN : B0BDT3ZC72
THE SECRET DAUGHTER
The Secret Daughter is a riveting journey into the heart of historical secrets and personal discovery. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Budapest’s enigmatic locales, Davis crafts a story that combines the mystique of an old library, mysterious letters possibly penned by Beethoven, and the protagonist, Marie’s, unfolding journey.
Davis writes with a style that breathes life into every scene. Her prose is vivid and laden with sensory details that pull you into the locales of Budapest. As a piano technician drawn into a centuries-old mystery, Marie is a compelling character whose passion for history and music drives the story forward. The narrative brilliantly captures her internal conflicts and the excitement of uncovering potentially earth-shattering historical evidence.
What stands out to me the most in Davis’s novel is the element of suspense woven through the fabric of historical exploration. The scenes in the Palace Library of Budapest, where Marie discovers the letters, are particularly gripping. Davis’s portrayal of the eerie, almost spectral atmosphere of the library gives the novel a thrilling edge that keeps you turning pages.
The subplot involving the theft and the subsequent danger Marie faces adds a layer of urgency to the narrative, too. Davis handles these scenes with a deft touch, maintaining tension without overshadowing the story’s historical and emotional core. The historical insights into Beethoven’s life and the descriptions of musical heritage enrich the story as well. This makes it a treat for classical music enthusiasts.
The Secret Daughter is a novel that will appeal to lovers of historical mysteries and strong, relatable protagonists. It’s perfect for readers who revel in the blend of history, mystery, and personal growth. Davis’s novel is a compelling invitation to explore the depths of history and the complexities of our past connections.
Pages: 208 | ASIN : B0DJFVCS3K
Answering the Human Question: A Gnome’s Essays on Mankind
Answering the Human Question is a reflective narrative that imagines a world where humans coexist with mythical creatures like gnomes, elves, and dwarves. Told from the perspective of a seasoned gnome, the story delves into humanity’s evolution, from their early steps into civilization to their complex societies and struggles against darker forces. The narrator, a gnome who’s studied humanity over centuries, documents his interactions with humans, weaving history, philosophy, and cultural reflections into a unique series of essays that ponder what it means to be human.
One thing that stands out to me is the narrative voice. The gnome’s voice feels timeless yet quirky, which gives the prose a humorous edge despite the heavy themes. For instance, in the early chapters, the gnome recounts his first meeting with a human family led by Baruk and Jhalyah, nomads striving to survive in a dangerous world. The gnome’s earnest attempts to communicate with them using basic Elvish and their eventual bonding over a shared meal show the gentle humor and wonder of cross-cultural exchanges. The warmth in these interactions makes readers feel the gnome’s attachment to humanity and shows a rare vulnerability in how he admires humans’ resilience despite their fragility.
The gnome’s musings on humanity’s tendency toward conflict also bring a critical but thoughtful tone to the book. When discussing the brutal wars of the “Jaramites,” a later generation of human warriors, he seems almost mournful, especially in his reflections on Varr Scarhand, a warrior king who turns his people’s peaceful legacy into one of violence. The gnome sees this as a tragic turn, almost a betrayal of his early friends, Baruk and Jhalyah. He questions whether humans are truly learning or just repeating the same mistakes with new tools, and his sadness makes these sections resonate with readers who may feel the weight of human history’s cycles of violence and innovation.
However, it’s in the more philosophical sections that I think the book shines. In the concluding essays, the gnome considers the Elderkin Council’s debate on the “Human Question”: Should the Elderkin (the mythical races) welcome humans as equals, or are they fated to remain as lessers? The gnome’s arguments on humanity’s creativity, ambition, and contradictions are compelling. He highlights moments like the rise of Andrwyn the Great, a human king who unites tribes and promotes peace and education, as proof of human potential. The gnome’s admiration for humanity’s ability to dream and achieve something lasting amid mortality leaves readers with a sense of hope.
Answering the Human Question is ideal for fans of fantasy and philosophical thought experiments alike. It’s a reflective and surprisingly touching exploration of the human condition, seen through the eyes of an immortal, who is, in his own way, captivated by humanity. This book would be perfect for readers who enjoy the lore and ethical explorations in works like Tolkien’s or Pratchett’s but are looking for a unique, first-person philosophical twist.
Pages: 155 | ASIN : B0CW1FX44G
Avatars of Destiny: The Quest for Reality’s Edge
Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II, Avatars of Destiny: The Quest for Reality’s Edge by Ess-Jee Rautenbach plunges readers into a gripping story where science, ambition, and fate collide. A decade after a mysterious alien ship crash-landed on Earth, scientists, desperate to gain the upper hand in the war, embark on a reckless quest to harness its advanced technology. But their ambition spirals into disaster, unleashing forces far beyond their comprehension. Now, with Earth’s future and another world in peril, the race to undo the damage begins, raising the crucial question: can catastrophe be averted before both worlds are lost?
Rautenbach’s fantastic world-building lies at the heart of this science fiction novel. Each region introduced in the story bursts with life, showcasing fascinating creatures and landscapes that feel as real as they are magical. The seamless integration of magic and technology forms a compelling backdrop, while themes of survival, conflict, and power echo human history, grounding the fantastical in universal struggles. This rich and layered setting immerses readers in a world that feels extraordinary and relatable.
What sets Avatars of Destiny apart is Rautenbach’s intricate weaving of multiple storylines. Initially disconnected, these threads gradually intertwine, leading to an exhilarating and cohesive conclusion. Each character brings a fully fleshed-out backstory, which not only adds depth but drives the plot with clear motivations and personal stakes. The novel explores powerful themes such as self-discovery, loyalty, and the immense burden that comes with wielding great power.
The author skillfully balances fast-paced action with thoughtful character development, ensuring the story engages readers on both an emotional and intellectual level. One thing I liked about the book is the unique reflection section that follows each chapter. These summaries provide readers with additional insight into the characters’ choices while encouraging them to reflect on the unfolding events. By inviting readers to consider what they would do in similar situations, the book creates an interactive reading experience, blending traditional storytelling with a fresh and reflective approach that adds a personal layer to the narrative.
Visually captivating and intellectually stimulating, Avatars of Destiny is an exhilarating blend of action and introspection. Rautenbach has crafted a tale that not only entertains but provokes thought, making it a perfect read for those who love adventures that delve into deeper philosophical and moral questions.
Pages: 248 : ASIN : B0D9VL5HQF
LITERARY TITAN 