The Crow of Connemara by Stephen Leigh – a Review
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Description:
THE CROW OF CONNEMARA is a contemporary Celtic fantasy set primarily in Ireland. Picking up threads from ancient Irish mythology and folktales, this story is fantasy, drama, and tragic romance all at once, a tale caught in the dark places where the world of ancient myth intersects our own, where old ways and old beliefs struggle not to be overwhelmed by the modern world.
Colin Doyle is third generation Irish-American musician, whose interest is traditional Irish music. Maeve Gallagher is an Oileánach, an ‘Islander’ on Ireland’s west coast, outcasts treated with suspicion and disdain by the locals, who think them responsible for wild and strange happenings in the area. Colin’s and Maeve’s lives will soon intersect and intertwine. Colin will discover that Maeve has been involved with his family for far longer than seems possible, and Maeve will have to make a life-or-death choice in order to achieve what she wants for her people.
Review:
The Crow of Connemara is a contemporary Irish fantasy, with Celtic lore, and Fae mythology. This story is a romance tragedy of modern day and old time myths. Colin Doyle is our hero, who is pressured by his family to get his degree, even though his only interest is his Celtic music, and desire to go to Ireland. Colin dreams of this Irish woman, who calls to him in his visions. When his father dies, Colin decides to follow his heart and go to Ireland.
While joining other musicians playing his music in pubs, Colin with meet the woman of his dreams. Maeve Gallagher shows interest in Colin, but he finds the townsfolks do not like Maeve or her friends that live on the local island. The Oileanach’s are resented by the town, marked as outcasts, feared as witches. In a short time, Maeve and her friends are told they need to leave the island or they will be forced out.
Maeve and Colin’s relationship grows slowly, and we the reader learn quickly that Maeve is indeed more than anyone knows. This is where the fae mythology involving all the members of the island, goes into more detail as to who they are, and what is Colin needed for.
This is modern day contemporary story, with a romance that is doomed. I like Colin, but I thought that Maeve was a fascinating character. I enjoyed the mythology, and learning about them. I also love anything that takes place in Ireland.
Stephen Leigh did a wonderful job doing the world building of this story, though it was a bit slow early on as we learned more about the Oileanach and the island. It was an exciting and interesting ending, leaving me wondering if there would be another book, or we are to use our imagination.
Reviewed by Barb
Copy provided by Publisher
Terrific review, Barb. Sounds like a different type of book to read, and I enjoy mythology storylines.
I love fantasy books with celtic mythology backgrounds. Thanks for this review, Barb.
This book looks like something I might enjoy. I’m going to give it a try. Thanks, Barb.
Sounds great, thanks Barb
Very nice review Barb-not a big fan of mythology storylines as they can be ver detailed but this sounds interesting. Thanks
Great review Barb. This sounds rather interesting and something I’d like. I love folklore/mythology especially when set over in Ireland, Scotland or any of Europe. Heck I just enjoy mythology in general. I shall have to check this one out
Love fantasy books but not sure I would like not having a HEA ending. Great review Barb.
Sounds like a great story. Thanks.
I don’t read much fantasy, but this has me intrigued.
Great review, Barb. Looks like an interesting story, especially with the Fae myths and taking place in Ireland.
Great review, Barb! I usually like my HEA, but this sounds absolutely fascinating…