Book Review: Lion of Ireland

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Lion of Ireland     Amazon US TPB Amazon Canada TPB
Morgan Llywelyn
Class/Genre:   Fantasy   Historical
Tor, Mar 2002, $15.95, 444 pp.

In the tenth century, the Norsemen assault the minor relatively peaceful Irish Clan. They pilfer, rape, and randomly kill without a second thought. Observing the cruel attack in shock is a young lad, Brian mac Cennedi. He vows that one day there will be vengeance for the wanton death and destruction that the marauders brought to his clan. As he grows into adulthood, Brian never forgot his vow. He begins his quest of revenge starting with efforts to unite the Irish clans under his rule. His battles with Viking and Irish alike become legendary as no one fights more ferociously than Brian does in battle. Eventually he conquers and unites the land, becoming known as Boru, the High King of Ireland. LION OF IRELAND is an exciting historical fiction tale that cleverly blends known facts, legends, and Morgan Llywellyn’s wonderful imagination into a great epic tale. The story line vividly provides a feel for tenth century Ireland without skimping on the action or on character development. The heroic Brian, the three key females, and his foes are fully developed so that the audience understands their motives while obtaining more insight into an interesting era. Ms. Llywellyn is the bard of Irish fictional history.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner