I’m thrilled to be hosting the Blog Tour for newly released novel The Children of Lir by Marion Grace Woolley and today it’s finally my turn to share my own thoughts! Check out all the must-know info about this new release along with my full review below – enjoy!
About The Book
A curse that lasted 900 years, a legend that lasted forever.
From the Iron Age of Ireland to the dawn of Christianity, this epic retelling traverses the realms of magic and sorcery. From the fort of Fionnachaidh to the watery wastes of Sruth na Maoile, it tells of the downfall of an ancient race and the children caught in its wake.
Grieving for the loss of his wife, King Lir marries her younger sister, Aoife. Jealous of her husband’s children she calls on the power of the Aos Sí and their Phantom Queen, making a bargain that will cost her life.
The children, turned to swans, are cast out upon the waves in an adventure that sees empires rise and fall as centuries pass. Eventually, they must choose between the world they once knew and a future they do not understand.
Review
The Children of Lir is a brand new retelling of the old Irish Folklore which was originally created as a mythological tale back in the post-Christianisation period. The story follows the legend of the King of Lir and his four children; Fionnula, Aodh, conn and Fiachra, and is written in four clearly defined sections which span the 900 years during which their story is based.
I’ll admit I began reading this book completely unaware of any details surrounding the original story which really added to my reading experience. Therefore, unlike some of my other reviews I don’t want to go into any more detail than I already have as it may spoil it for you!
What I can tell you though is that I thoroughly enjoyed this book even though it isn’t my usual go-to genre. The story is extremely detailed and at times quite character and information heavy which initially made it a little hard going. However, I quickly managed to get my head around the relationships and who belonged where – with a little help from the useful family tree at the start of the book! – and couldn’t put it down! The layout of the book also helped immensely as each chapter header clearly states from whose perspective you are reading which enabled me to keep track as the narrative frequently jumped about.
It’s abundantly clear the hard work, research and dedication that Marion has poured into every page of this novel and the detail included isn’t in vain as it adds so much, helping to build such a vivid world that grabbed my attention. She has such a wonderfully easy way with words which flow perfectly and left me wanting to carry on reading way past my bedtime – which happened on more than one occasion-oops! I also have to congratulate Marion on her inclusion of an LGBT character which is something I love to unexpectedly discover in a book.
For me The Children of Lir is another of those reads that reminds me never to judge a book by it’s cover, as it’s reasonably basic cover tells nothing of the wonderful read contained within. A beautifully written tale of love, loss, grief and magic when combined make a truly entertaining read. If you love fantasy or historical books this one is definitely for you, although if you are unfamiliar with the legend of The Children of Lir I highly recommend diving straight in without doing any googling!
About The Author
Marion Grace Woolley writes dark fiction and historical fantasy from her home in Kigali. When she’s not writing her own material, she edits technical reports, ghostwrites biographies, and is attempting to build the first piano in Rwanda.
Author Links: Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads
Reader Giveaway!
Marion is generously offering my readers the chance to WIN their own copy of The Children of Lir. One winner will be selected to receive a paperback copy and two winners will each receive a Kindle Copy. To be in with a chance simply click here and enter your details – Good Luck!
Terms & Conditions
UK entries only, 18yrs+.
Winner’s will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified ASAP.
Winner’s will have 7 days to claim their prize before an alternative winner is chosen.
Prizes are fulfilled by the author and are not the responsibility of participants or tour operator.
Entries close at Midnight on 22nd August 2019 and only valid entries will be included in the draw.
The Children of Lir is available to purchase now from Amazon*
Fraser’s Fun House 