Rating:  Summary: Trite and predictable Review: I was excited to read this book based on the reviews, my love of history. I was extremely disappointed. The characters here are one dimensional, uttering predictable catch-phrases, and are basically uninteresting. I got through about 200 pages and couldn't even finish. The main character is increadibly driven, and consequently his reactions throughout the story become entirely predictable. He has no depth and the author doesn't create any kind of sympathy, empathy, or interest between the character and the reader. I really didn't care what happened to him or any of the characters in the book. I think I'll stick with Bernard Cornwell, or Sharon Kay Penman.
Rating:  Summary: An Epic Worthy of Boru Review: Morgan Llywelyn presents an historical novel of epic proportions in her triumphant "Lion of Ireland." Each page will grip the reader and leave you wanting more. In an updated style still reminiscent of her beloved bards and seanchai, Llywelyn presents this classic Irish legend in a thoroughly modern and accessible format. Truly a treasure.
Rating:  Summary: The Ultimate Review Review: This chronicle contains a slice of just about every catagory a novel may allow. Romance, action, and emotions are distributed amungst the novel that of an back and forth fashion. There is an intreging plot that makes you keep asking yourself questions as the tale unfolds.
Rating:  Summary: Roaring good tale Review: With dexterity and wit, M. Llywelyn brings medieval Ireland to the glory of the modern English language. Taking characters of the Irish sagas, she creates a fleshed-out cast of characters. If you've read Brian Boru's tales before, you'll find this is true to the basic plot. The story is told of all too human men and women thrust into the heroic situation. This was written as if it were a biography of the great hero. Like many of her novels, she paints her hero as a man, first, and a hero second.Set in roughly the 9th Century, the Danes were settling in Ireland on the east coast; they built cities and were forming settlements. Not all of the Irish kings were happy about this. The Danes put a new skew to the Irish vs. Irish fighting, making it the Irish & the Danes vs. the Danes & the Irish. Brian is called to make more of himself, and eventually tries to gather the Irish to his banner and subdue/evict the Danes. Both sides are out to stop him, for various reasons. The action will keep you on your seat edge, as will the politicial intrigue going on behind the action. If you like this, definately find Llyewlyn's other earlier heroic works.
Rating:  Summary: my review Review: I really enjoyed reading this book. It is a true historical novel, since I learned a lot about Irish history of the times, and also came to very much like Brian of Boruma and all that he felt and accomplished for his country. The characters are vey alive and real and all the facts presented, like wars, marriages are very well presented and not boring to read. The places as well as life in those ages are also very alive and easy to read and learn about. A very good book and a pleasure to read.
Rating:  Summary: Read...You're Hooked Review: Now that's what I'm talkin' about! If you are a fan of Irish folklore you owe it to yourself to read this one. You're disappointed the book has ended but fortunately you can move onto THE PRIDE of LIONS to ease you away from that empty feeling of having nothing to read. Llywelyn has easily become my favorite author. THIS IS A MUST READ!
Rating:  Summary: Lion of Ireland -- a great read for everybody Review: Lion of Ireland is one of the most interesting, well-written books I've ever had the pleasure of reading. Llywelyn clearly portrays life in 1000 AD Ireland. I've read it and The Pride of Lions twice and am still entralled. Llywelyn tells Boru's story in a way that both the serious reader and the pleasure reader can enjoy. Even if you're not a history buff, the tangled love story and fantastic battle scenes make it a book anyone can read and revel in. Thank you Morgan Llywelyn. I connected so much with the characters, I named my daughter after Boru's father, Cennedi.
Rating:  Summary: WONDERFULL! Review: Absolutly wonderfull! this book is pure magic. Thats all I have to say
Rating:  Summary: Truly a soul stirring novel Review: A wonderful look into Irish tradition and history. A beautifuly written and exceptionaly acurate view of 10th century Erin. This novel was both moving and inspiring in it's portrayl of Brian mac Cennedi and his rise to Ard Ri(High King) of a truly united Ireland. Mrs Llywelyn is a bard of great skill and on par with the likes of the late Poul Anderson. A must read for any avid history buff.
Rating:  Summary: Pure magic Review: Morgan LLywelyn is one the most gifted writers writing today and "Lion of Ireland" is her masterpiece. You feel her passion and the love she has for the Irish in her words and her unique storytelling talent makes this book one of the best books I have ever read.
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