Lion of Ireland [Mass Market Paperback]

Morgan Llywelyn (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 15, 1996

King, warrior, and lover Brian Boru was stronger, braver, and wiser than all other men--the greatest king Ireland has ever known. Out of the mists of the country's most violent age, he merged to lead his people to the peak of their golden era.

His women were as remarkable as his adventures: Fiona, the druidess with mystical powers; Deirdre, beautiful victim of a Norse invader's brutal lust; Gormlaith, six-foot, read-haired goddess of sensuality.

Set against the barbaric splendors of the tenth century, this is a story rich in truth and legend-in which friends become deadly enemies, bedrooms turn into battlefields, and dreams of glory are finally fulfilled. Morgan Llywelyn has written one of the greatest novels of Irish history.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"A royal read . . . without a misstep and with touching beauty."--The Washington Post

"Llywelyn has woven the historical tales of her country and its greatest High King into a single magnificent book . . . . This is an extraordinary biography of a very human man . . . with convincing characters and vivid, detailed descriptions."--The Dallas Morning News

"A rousing story . . . . Something to enjoy on a cold night by the fireplace with your goblet of mead or strong ale."--Sunday Boston Globe

About the Author

Since 1980 Morgan Llywelyn has created an entire body of work chronicling the Celts and Ireland, from the earliest times to the present day. her critically acclaimed novels, both of history and of mythology, have been translated into many languages. She is an Irish citizen and lives in Dublin.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 576 pages
• Publisher: Tor Books (March 15, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0812553993
• ISBN-13: 978-0812553994
• Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.3 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (89 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #220,498 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #11 in Books > 4-for-3 Books > Biographies & Memoirs > Ethnic & National > Irish

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

46 of 46 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Outstanding Historical Fiction, April 29, 2006

By 

B. Breen "Canuckster1127" (Sterling, VA USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Lion of Ireland (Mass Market Paperback)

Morgan Llywelyn has done a fantastic job in this novel. She does outstanding research and builds a framework that will have you walk away from this book having a very good understanding of the history of Ireland in terms of its small kingdoms constantly warring with each other to where outside invaders can waltz in and mop up. The greatest king who accomplished what no other could was Brian Boru, Ard Ri (High King) and unfortunately his descendents proved incapable of maintaining what was created. If history had been different then, perhaps today's situation and recent past of continued fighting and occupation would have been different.

If that was all there was to offer in this situation, however, then Llywelyn's book would not stand out from much of the common fare in historical fiction. Far too often, characters are developed but left somewhat lacking and no real story develops and stands out.

This is not the case here. The characters are rich and personal and capture the spirit of the ages in a way that few historical fictional works ever do.

Llywelywn explores the conflict between druidic and Christian culture and religion and personifies it within her characters to where the discerning reader will pick up a lot that is caught more than told.

Be aware that some of the scenes are fairly adult in nature. It is not gratuitous. It does add to the story line, but some readers with sensitivities in this area will want to know that in advance.

Overall an excellent read with much to recommend it!

33 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This Lion Roars, September 14, 2004

By 

Brad Nicholson (Perrysburg, Ohio United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Lion of Ireland (Mass Market Paperback)

I picked up this book knowing nothing about Irish history and going on a single recommendation. I am so glad I picked up because I couldn't put it down, it is easily one of the most engaging books I have ever read. Llywelyn seamlessly combines the heat of battle with the passion of love for women and country. A great read even for folks with no knowledge of Irish history. I highly recommend!

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely Brilliant, March 20, 2001

By 

Aquaria.Info "Aquaria.Info - Aquarium Fish On... (Aquaria.Info) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Lion of Ireland (Mass Market Paperback)

Once again Morgan Llywelyn has written a wonderful book. This time she brings you back to the time of Brian Boru, one of the great kings of ancient Ireland.

As with many of her books Morgan has spent a lot of time researching her subject before writing the book. This historically accurate book gives you a glimpse of what life in ancient Ireland was like.

It left me craving more and dreaming of my heritage.