Rating: 
Summary: This Lion Roars
Review: 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!
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: 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: 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.
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