Rating:  Summary: This book is the reason I consider writing a true art form. Review: A FLAWLESS READ. Whether you are male or female, 12 years old or 100, a lover or a fighter, a true fan of rich, historlical legends, a die-hard fantasy fan or anything in between, if you read only one more book in your life, read LION OF IRELAND. It is a long, hard, fast-paced, breath-taking, passionate ride through the life of Brian Boru. And as I ride alongside this man through his battles, both horrific and herioc, I find it quite difficult to believe that His actual life could have been more eventful, or more fullfilling. Nor could I imagine it any less. If you read this book, and are of Irish descent, you will never feel more proud than after you read this book. If you aren't Irish, you will certainly find yourself longing to be. This tale fed my obsession with Irish lore, and Ireland Herself. I can only hope to achieve this quality of writing, and for once in my life, was more than happy to just sit back on the sidelines and read. Again and again. Thank you, M.L.
Rating:  Summary: exciting historical fiction Review: 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
Rating:  Summary: The greatest Ard Ri of Eire Review: The story of Brian Boru is fascinating - truly the last and greatest Celt. His ability to unify Ireland through shrewd politics, forward thinking alliances, and of course, warfare are simply amazing. Llywelyn does an adequate job of his story and hits all the major issues. However, her writing is very romaticized and a little soft around the edges lacking the punch you'd expect from a story dealing with a life-long warrior such as Boru - the battles are very weak and almost bloodless. I'd like to rate it higher, but Llwelyn created a cuddly warrior in this book...I like my Celts Celts.
Rating:  Summary: THIS LION TRULY IS KING! Review: The LION OF IRELAND is historical fiction at its best with just enough romance and myth sprinkled in to keep you reading into the wee hours of the morning. The author writes a very authentic tale of what life may have been like in 10th century Ireland. In a time where greed, revenge and superstition reigned Brian Boru's vision of a united Ireland was not well received. His perserverance, shrewd intellect and visionary military strategies set the stage for him to unite a people and become the greatest king of Ireland. The tragedies in Brian Boru's life are just as formidable as his conquests which make this book a very compelling read. This book is a page turner and I didn't want it to end.
Rating:  Summary: An excellent read!!! Review: The life of Brian Boru is chronicled in this fascinating novel of Ireland. I started reading this novel early in the afternoon
and I couldn't put it down until early next morning! You'll
follow this man's incredible journey to unite all of Ireland
as one nation, changing forever the destiny of the Irish people.
If you want to travel into the history of the emerald isle without
paying airfare, you'll want this book!
Rating:  Summary: Great Book Review: The Lion of Ireland is the first book I ever read concerning Irish history, beginning a life-long study. Ms. Llywelyn is certanly a good writer, and from what I researched concerning the "real" Brian Boru she sticks to the history. The only negative point I can make is the heavy-handed romance that seems to be throughout the book. Be that as it may, Lion of Ireland is still a great read!
Rating:  Summary: Lion of Ireland Review: Very entertaining historical fiction account of the life of Irish high king Brian Boru. Lots of inter tribal conflict between celtic clans, conflict between norse raiders and settlers and local Irish celts, religious conflict between christian and celtic and norse pagan beliefs, conflict in Boru's life. If you have any interest in anything about Celts, Vikings, or fantasy type stuff you will most likely be really into this book.
Rating:  Summary: One of may Favourite Books Review: There is little that I can say that has not been said already. I love this book and have read it several times. The only thing I would change is the HORRIBLE back cover! The amount of laughter people have had at my expense because of the back cover is almost unbearable and I am certain it has driven many away from reading it. I am truly torn between wanting to see this brought to the big screen and my fear of what Hollywood would do to it...
Rating:  Summary: Brian Boru, A Man among Boys Review: The Lion of Ireland tells the story of a Young Brian of Boruma and his rise through the rankings following his dreams of ruling Ireland and beridding it of all Foreigners. All Brian's childhood he looked up at his eldest brother Mahon with awe and respect. Brian later found himself despising Mahon's beliefs and techniques. Brian breaks away from Mahon's army and starts his own band of warriors. Brian learns to show hiw strength not only on the battlefield but at the discussion tables. He pushes himself not only to be stronger but smarter than his foes. Brian becomes an image of Mahon after Mahon is killed. He thinks for his people rather than by the edge of a sword. Brian's biggest battles aren't against the northman or meathmen, but against his closest friends, family, and loved ones. Him and his eldest son Murrough have the biggest conflict. Murrough is just like Brian at a young age so Brian finds himself fighting with himself. The book takes the reader through all the perilous adventures and battles and all the scandalous and seductive women with so much decription its like your next Brian Boru himself willing him on. Morgan Llywelyn tells of the glorious past of Ireland and the great people who roamed the hills and left their mark there. An overall great book for the adventure hungry minds!!
Rating:  Summary: the ultimate bard Review: This book, just like her others, is a triumph in bardic tale. It is captivating and hard to put down.
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