What do you think?
Rate this book
The Devlin Legacy #1
Devil's Mountain
You will hate Him for all that he's taken, but you will love Him. God help you, you will love Him.
Mary Devlin accepted her fate years ago, to serve Slanaitheoir, the mountain spirit who saved her ancestors from the Irish Famine. The hauntingly beautiful woman submitted to His every caress, His every humiliation, but He’s gone too far by threatening her family.
Mary’s daughter-in-law is now an unwitting pawn in the fickle spirit’s game. Mary must challenge her fate and that of all future Devlin women, but Slanaitheoir is the most powerful being in the land. And when part of her still yearns for His touch and love, how can she fight him and win?
122 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2012
5 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Bernadette Walsh
21 books169 followersWhen Bernadette is not annoying her fellow commuters on the Long Island Rail Road with the tap-tap-tapping of her computer, she enjoys eating chocolate and indulging in her favorite mind candy -- reality TV.
While Bernadette has hopped around genres, from paranormal romance to humorous romance to serious women's fiction, all of her books to date have a common theme: strong women handling what life throws at them the best way they can.
Bernadette has written seven novels: Gold Coast Wives (contemporary romance); The Devlin Witch (paranormal romance); The Girls on Rose Hill (women's fiction); Friends Forever (women's fiction), Cold Spring (women's fiction), Johnny Be Good (women's fiction) and See Me (paranormal romance). She is also the host of NICE GIRLS READING NAUGHTY BOOKS on BlogTalkRadio http://www.blogtalkradio.com/search?q...
Bernadette’s Website: http://www.bernadettewalsh.com
Reader eMail: bernadettewalsh.author@gmail.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 4, 2012
I got this book, from Making Connections for free, in exchange for an honest review. Get your copy here.
The story intrigued me from the very beginning!
It was the right amount of scary and there were parts where I was screaming at the characters for how stupid they were being– always a good sign!
Then there were parts where I kept thinking I’m going to be really mad, if all of this turns out to be Mary’s imagination/sickness.
The ending..woah! Scary and creepy and well done.
Really want to read the next one in the series!
The story intrigued me from the very beginning!
It was the right amount of scary and there were parts where I was screaming at the characters for how stupid they were being– always a good sign!
Then there were parts where I kept thinking I’m going to be really mad, if all of this turns out to be Mary’s imagination/sickness.
The ending..woah! Scary and creepy and well done.
Really want to read the next one in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2021
I'm very thankful to this author who offered this read to our Ladybugs bookclub on Facebook in exchange for a honest review. Personally I don't read what the book is about beforehand. So I had no idea what the book was about other than a witch. This book was good its been a while since a paranormal book has caught my eye.
One Devlin women thru the years has be offered up to protect their families. Mary unfortunately doesn't tell her family what she been going thru. I think its crazy that Caroline never asks her about the tale that everyone believes but don't believe. I don't want to give everything away but it's good and very creative plus unique. I didn't know it was going to be steamy but it definitely is.
One Devlin women thru the years has be offered up to protect their families. Mary unfortunately doesn't tell her family what she been going thru. I think its crazy that Caroline never asks her about the tale that everyone believes but don't believe. I don't want to give everything away but it's good and very creative plus unique. I didn't know it was going to be steamy but it definitely is.
August 27, 2012
I received this book from the Author for an honest review.
In each book I read, I either have to like the character as a person, or at least understand them; their tone, their actions, and their motives.
In Devil's Mountain, this seemed to be secondary. I understood both main characters, but they almost seemed like filler to the real story. This wasn't a bad thing. I can't think of a single book I've read that the characters seemed less important than the actual story, and it work for the book. Great job on that, Bernadette! The real focus on this book was the legend that it told.
This was a fantastic read. This story is told from 2 different women's point of view but no point do you get confused about who you're reading. Each chapter is a POV change, and the person's name is the chapter title.
The book moves smoothly and every character is well defined. Though the book was decent in length, it almost felt like a short story because of how easy it was to move through it.
I cannot wait to read the sequel.
In each book I read, I either have to like the character as a person, or at least understand them; their tone, their actions, and their motives.
In Devil's Mountain, this seemed to be secondary. I understood both main characters, but they almost seemed like filler to the real story. This wasn't a bad thing. I can't think of a single book I've read that the characters seemed less important than the actual story, and it work for the book. Great job on that, Bernadette! The real focus on this book was the legend that it told.
This was a fantastic read. This story is told from 2 different women's point of view but no point do you get confused about who you're reading. Each chapter is a POV change, and the person's name is the chapter title.
The book moves smoothly and every character is well defined. Though the book was decent in length, it almost felt like a short story because of how easy it was to move through it.
I cannot wait to read the sequel.
July 29, 2021
Really Enjoy the first 4 Books
So well Written.
So well Written.
August 11, 2012
Caroline Collins married the love of her life. Bobby Connelly was perfect for her. It was like a fairytale, right up to the rehearsal dinner. That’s when things started to get ugly.
The arrival of Bobby’s beautiful mother, Mary, sparked some old memories…or were they old “wives tales”? Caroline’s mother, Nellie, suddenly began spouting superstitions, accusing Mary of having made a pact with the devil. Apparently Nellie and Mary had grown up in the same mountain society in Ireland. Nellie tried to warn Caroline of the danger.
Caroline brushed off her mother’s warnings and the wedding took place. Her mother was never the same. In fact, Nellie even moved out of state, creating more distance from the couple.
Life was wonderful for the newlyweds until they faced the devastating news that Caroline could not conceive a child. She saw the finest specialists in Manhattan. They all agreed she would never get pregnant. Caroline was distraught. She would do anything to get pregnant…anything. She quickly spiraled into a black depression.
Bobby only wanted happiness for Caroline. He couldn’t watch her slip away. He knew there was only one answer.
The newlyweds decided to take a trip back to Ireland. A change of scenery would do them good. Life on the mountain was like entering another world. There was something very frightening, and yet there was so much beauty and pleasure to be had. Most importantly, Bobby was able to get Mary’s promise that she would arrange for Caroline to become pregnant. However, she insisted that Caroline could only have one baby... no more. That was the deal.
Caroline conceived on the mountain.
The couple returned to Manhattan and life continued happily for the family of three. With the addition of their lovely baby boy, it appears that their family is complete. Caroline felt differently. She feels a strong desire for another child and she unknowingly makes her own deal with the devil-. the Slanaintheoir. Once the deal is done, life will never be the same. There are a series of ugly events that lead to Carolinas return to the mountain.
Because of Caroline’s actions, Mary must try to stop the chain of events that will end in horror for an innocent girl. She blames Caroline and makes no secret of it. Caroline had inadvertently given Slanaintheoir even more power. He now held more lives in his hands and his diabolical plans would ruin lives for centuries.
Will Mary be able to bargain with Slanaintheoir? Is it too late?
You’ll have to visit Devil's Mountain to find the answers.
The arrival of Bobby’s beautiful mother, Mary, sparked some old memories…or were they old “wives tales”? Caroline’s mother, Nellie, suddenly began spouting superstitions, accusing Mary of having made a pact with the devil. Apparently Nellie and Mary had grown up in the same mountain society in Ireland. Nellie tried to warn Caroline of the danger.
Caroline brushed off her mother’s warnings and the wedding took place. Her mother was never the same. In fact, Nellie even moved out of state, creating more distance from the couple.
Life was wonderful for the newlyweds until they faced the devastating news that Caroline could not conceive a child. She saw the finest specialists in Manhattan. They all agreed she would never get pregnant. Caroline was distraught. She would do anything to get pregnant…anything. She quickly spiraled into a black depression.
Bobby only wanted happiness for Caroline. He couldn’t watch her slip away. He knew there was only one answer.
The newlyweds decided to take a trip back to Ireland. A change of scenery would do them good. Life on the mountain was like entering another world. There was something very frightening, and yet there was so much beauty and pleasure to be had. Most importantly, Bobby was able to get Mary’s promise that she would arrange for Caroline to become pregnant. However, she insisted that Caroline could only have one baby... no more. That was the deal.
Caroline conceived on the mountain.
The couple returned to Manhattan and life continued happily for the family of three. With the addition of their lovely baby boy, it appears that their family is complete. Caroline felt differently. She feels a strong desire for another child and she unknowingly makes her own deal with the devil-. the Slanaintheoir. Once the deal is done, life will never be the same. There are a series of ugly events that lead to Carolinas return to the mountain.
Because of Caroline’s actions, Mary must try to stop the chain of events that will end in horror for an innocent girl. She blames Caroline and makes no secret of it. Caroline had inadvertently given Slanaintheoir even more power. He now held more lives in his hands and his diabolical plans would ruin lives for centuries.
Will Mary be able to bargain with Slanaintheoir? Is it too late?
You’ll have to visit Devil's Mountain to find the answers.
September 22, 2012
This book was nothing like I expected. The summary for the book while it is intriguing tells very little about the book so I thought that this would be the typical paranormal/fantasy romance read. A bit of fluff and some magic or something of the like here and there. Boy, was I ever wrong.
As soon as I started the book last night I was hooked. I love how the book started off in the middle of the story and then switched to the beginning. I'm not sure why but I really enjoy it when authors employ that technique in their writing and the author for this book did it in a really great way.
I loved how the book was so dark, mysterious and at times it read much like a thriller novel. The fact that the book itself has a lot of ties to Ireland as much of it takes place. What I liked most about it is that there was mention of the area where I visited in the story.
The story was well written and kept me on my toes. Just when I thought that I had figured out where the story line was headed the author decided to take me completely by surprise and did something with the story that I never would have thought to do.
I thought the characters were great. My favourite character would have to be Caroline because she had so many bad things happen to her and those around her kept blaming her for things that were so far out of the realm of her control I couldn't believe that they were so harsh to her. I really felt with her and it was though I was feeling all the things she felt which is pretty rare in such a short novel for the characters to be so developed. I thought this one was a real gem and I can't wait to read books two and three and read more about the Devlin women and the Slanaitheoir.
I highly recommend this book to those who want a short but dark read that fully engages the reader in the story. Whether you're fans of the genre or not I think the book is one that is well worth the read and I think I'll be recommending this one left, right and center for a long while.
*I received a free copy in exchange for my free and honest review. I was not compensated in any way and all thoughts and opinions expressed therein are my own.
As soon as I started the book last night I was hooked. I love how the book started off in the middle of the story and then switched to the beginning. I'm not sure why but I really enjoy it when authors employ that technique in their writing and the author for this book did it in a really great way.
I loved how the book was so dark, mysterious and at times it read much like a thriller novel. The fact that the book itself has a lot of ties to Ireland as much of it takes place. What I liked most about it is that there was mention of the area where I visited in the story.
The story was well written and kept me on my toes. Just when I thought that I had figured out where the story line was headed the author decided to take me completely by surprise and did something with the story that I never would have thought to do.
I thought the characters were great. My favourite character would have to be Caroline because she had so many bad things happen to her and those around her kept blaming her for things that were so far out of the realm of her control I couldn't believe that they were so harsh to her. I really felt with her and it was though I was feeling all the things she felt which is pretty rare in such a short novel for the characters to be so developed. I thought this one was a real gem and I can't wait to read books two and three and read more about the Devlin women and the Slanaitheoir.
I highly recommend this book to those who want a short but dark read that fully engages the reader in the story. Whether you're fans of the genre or not I think the book is one that is well worth the read and I think I'll be recommending this one left, right and center for a long while.
*I received a free copy in exchange for my free and honest review. I was not compensated in any way and all thoughts and opinions expressed therein are my own.
June 20, 2012
At first I was a little put off by the way this story was told. However, to give all the information and to keep the action moving, I can't really see any other way it could have been told. The story begins with a young woman named Caroline at her wedding to Bobby Connelly. The pair met in New York, but both of their families were from a very small area of Ireland and both families had ties back to Devlin's Mountain. Caroline's mother had known Bobby's mother and although neither of them will say why, neither of them approve of the wedding. The story takes you through the history of the Devlin family and their peculiar mythology.
Through the telling of Mary Devlin's story, you learn the history of the "five families" of Devlin's Mountain. Through Caroline's story, you learn the modern threat to their line and see the unfortunate handwriting on the wall.
This story keeps you guessing and despite having all of the story laid out before you, it still keeps you wondering. By the time I hit the end of the book, I was left with a feeling of longing and the desperate curiosity to know where the story is going based off the epilogue. Without Mary Devlin to teach them the ways of the beast, to teach them how to protect themselves from him, what will happen to little Kathy?
You will hate Him for all that He's taken, but you will love Him. God help you, you will love Him.
Through the telling of Mary Devlin's story, you learn the history of the "five families" of Devlin's Mountain. Through Caroline's story, you learn the modern threat to their line and see the unfortunate handwriting on the wall.
This story keeps you guessing and despite having all of the story laid out before you, it still keeps you wondering. By the time I hit the end of the book, I was left with a feeling of longing and the desperate curiosity to know where the story is going based off the epilogue. Without Mary Devlin to teach them the ways of the beast, to teach them how to protect themselves from him, what will happen to little Kathy?
You will hate Him for all that He's taken, but you will love Him. God help you, you will love Him.
August 25, 2012
I have always been into Irish and Celtic based stories. So this book caught my attention when I read the synopsis. I love the combination of history and myth In this book, to me it made it seem even more real.
My feelings for Caroline Changed multiple times during the duration of the book. At first I liked her but then It came to the point when she said she would rather die if she could not have a child, My heart went out to Bobby at that point. Bobby was one of my favorites from the beginning, with his good heart and (How I would imagine) sexy good looks. Ever have a character you love to hate and you find yourself yelling "why did you do that!" well for me Caroline was that person. When she said she would rather die I knew something bad was going to happen, I was hoping it wouldn't be Bobby. I blame her for everything that went wrong, but even with all of that in the end of the book I felt for her.
The book follows Caroline as she falls in love and marries Bobby Devlin. You watch them as they try for years to get pregnant and fail even trying IVF. Once they are told there is no hope Caroline sinks into a depression and Bobby is afraid of losing his wife that he holds so dear. In desperation thinking it will do her some good he decides to take her to Ireland, which is only the beginning of their problems.
There are many twist and turns in this book that will keep you guessing. The end of the book caught me off guard and has me clamoring to read what happens next. I'd like to see Caroline grow even more as a person and leave the air head she once was in the dust. I am adding Bernadette Walsh to my list of authors to watch for new books to read and the Devlin Legacy series to my must read book list.
My feelings for Caroline Changed multiple times during the duration of the book. At first I liked her but then It came to the point when she said she would rather die if she could not have a child, My heart went out to Bobby at that point. Bobby was one of my favorites from the beginning, with his good heart and (How I would imagine) sexy good looks. Ever have a character you love to hate and you find yourself yelling "why did you do that!" well for me Caroline was that person. When she said she would rather die I knew something bad was going to happen, I was hoping it wouldn't be Bobby. I blame her for everything that went wrong, but even with all of that in the end of the book I felt for her.
The book follows Caroline as she falls in love and marries Bobby Devlin. You watch them as they try for years to get pregnant and fail even trying IVF. Once they are told there is no hope Caroline sinks into a depression and Bobby is afraid of losing his wife that he holds so dear. In desperation thinking it will do her some good he decides to take her to Ireland, which is only the beginning of their problems.
There are many twist and turns in this book that will keep you guessing. The end of the book caught me off guard and has me clamoring to read what happens next. I'd like to see Caroline grow even more as a person and leave the air head she once was in the dust. I am adding Bernadette Walsh to my list of authors to watch for new books to read and the Devlin Legacy series to my must read book list.
August 6, 2012
Caroline Collins is marrying Bobby Connelly yet her mother Nellie objects to this marriage. Nellie believes that Caroline is in danger and says that Caroline will regret not listening to her. After visiting Ireland on holiday, Nellie believes that Caroline made a deal with the devil to become pregnant. Nellie refuses to believe Caroline did not and moves to another state far away from Caroline. Meanwhile Mary Connelly is happy for her son yet glad Caroline is finally pregnant. She worries about them hopes and prays nothing more will happen their family. What she doesn't count is Caroline's desire for another child. Caroline unknowningly makes a deal for another child, doesn't realize the cost. The Slanaintheoir is unhappy with Mary seeks a way around the Develin agreement. Mary fears for her granddaughter's life, she blames Caroline for all that is happening. Will Caroline see reason? Will Mary stop Slanaintheoir's plans? Will Caroline believe in Slanaintheoir? Will Kathy be spared? Your answers await you in Devil's Mountain.
September 29, 2012
I've read two of Bernadette Walsh's other books and loved them. However both of them fell into the Women's Fiction category, so I wasn't sure what to make of Devil's Mountain when I saw it was a paranormal.
I'm glad I gave it a shot!
Bernadette does a great job with creating characters that stick with you. Plus it has those great paranormal elements, witches and an evil spirit.
The story in an interweaving of two stories, Bobby and his wife Caroline and his mother Mary and Slanaitheoir a rather randy spirit. The whole story around the Slanaiteoir is really intriguing, and I hope we learn more about this Devil in the books to come.
I like how Bernadette makes you change your perception of Mary from the first time you meet her at the rehearsal dinner til the end of the story. It's Mary's story and back story that I liked the most over Caroline's.
I absolutely loved this story. Bernadette can really write in any genre. My only gripe is that the story was only 119 pages long! I want more!
I'm glad I gave it a shot!
Bernadette does a great job with creating characters that stick with you. Plus it has those great paranormal elements, witches and an evil spirit.
The story in an interweaving of two stories, Bobby and his wife Caroline and his mother Mary and Slanaitheoir a rather randy spirit. The whole story around the Slanaiteoir is really intriguing, and I hope we learn more about this Devil in the books to come.
I like how Bernadette makes you change your perception of Mary from the first time you meet her at the rehearsal dinner til the end of the story. It's Mary's story and back story that I liked the most over Caroline's.
I absolutely loved this story. Bernadette can really write in any genre. My only gripe is that the story was only 119 pages long! I want more!
September 29, 2012
This book was billed as horror/paranormal and while not a huge horror fan I thought what the heck. I am glad I did it is a unique combination that follows 5 Irish families and the deal they make with the mountain spirit to survive.
Rather than start at the beginning or the end this book starts in the middle and then you go back to get the back story and then forward to finish the book. I thought this was a very good way to give you the information and back story without trying to dump it on. The focus of this book is on the women because it's the women who have sacrificed to keep there end of the bargain.
The characters are well developed and the the story while the beginning of a series doesn't leave you with a cliffhanger ending. While being told from multiple points of view it as a rule is not hard to follow. Overall it is well written and an enjoyable read.
I was provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Rather than start at the beginning or the end this book starts in the middle and then you go back to get the back story and then forward to finish the book. I thought this was a very good way to give you the information and back story without trying to dump it on. The focus of this book is on the women because it's the women who have sacrificed to keep there end of the bargain.
The characters are well developed and the the story while the beginning of a series doesn't leave you with a cliffhanger ending. While being told from multiple points of view it as a rule is not hard to follow. Overall it is well written and an enjoyable read.
I was provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
November 27, 2012
I was given this by the author in exchange for an honest review. (R2R program, Lovers of the Paranormal.)
While I thoroughly enjoyed this story, it left me wanting more. (This is me being greedy for more details I guess, about the characters and what not.) The characters are believable, the landscape she conjures is beautiful, (how could it not be, being Ireland =P)and the story itself is really grabbing! I found myself a little lost at some points in the story, and I would have to back track a couple of sentences to make sure I hadn't missed something, with where we were at that time. (Whether we were in Ireland or in the US)I liked the concept of the chapters being centred around one characters point of view, I find that you can sometimes get a better grasp on each person when it's told like this.
I wish I new more about Him though, and his history. Maybe more of that will come out in the next?
Loved the ending btw! Thanks for letting me read!
While I thoroughly enjoyed this story, it left me wanting more. (This is me being greedy for more details I guess, about the characters and what not.) The characters are believable, the landscape she conjures is beautiful, (how could it not be, being Ireland =P)and the story itself is really grabbing! I found myself a little lost at some points in the story, and I would have to back track a couple of sentences to make sure I hadn't missed something, with where we were at that time. (Whether we were in Ireland or in the US)I liked the concept of the chapters being centred around one characters point of view, I find that you can sometimes get a better grasp on each person when it's told like this.
I wish I new more about Him though, and his history. Maybe more of that will come out in the next?
Loved the ending btw! Thanks for letting me read!
July 10, 2012
We begin with a young woman named Caroline at her wedding to Bobby Connelly. The couple met in New York, but both of their families hail from a very small area of Ireland. Both families have roots that tie them back to Devlin’s Mountain. Caroline’s mother Nellie had known Bobby’s mother Mary since childhood. Nellie screams that Mary is a witch and will not approve of the wedding.
Continue reading at
http://romancing-the-book.com/2012/06...
November 27, 2012
I had a moment; this is when I remembered why I have started reading again.
Devil’s Mountain, it took me on a journey through life ups and downs, I felt the choice joys, love, the desperation, the loneliness, and the heartaches.
To bring it back into the focus a touch of paranormal, needless to say I loved this book.
I am not putting spoilers in this review there is no need, this is a must read for all.
Devil’s Mountain, it took me on a journey through life ups and downs, I felt the choice joys, love, the desperation, the loneliness, and the heartaches.
To bring it back into the focus a touch of paranormal, needless to say I loved this book.
I am not putting spoilers in this review there is no need, this is a must read for all.
June 30, 2012
I don't want to say to much and spoil it, so I'll just say.......Fantastic book, had a really hard time putting it down! Filled with mystery, romance and a bit spooky, Bernadette Walsh out did her self with this one and kept me guessing right to the end. A must read for all who love paranormal romance!
December 12, 2012
This story was really great. I liked how it mostly took place in Ireland, how the main evil god was evil but lovely at the same time! How the author tied 9-11 into the story. Just a great read.
I would love to see Kathy's story maybe? Mary tried to tell everyone but, oh no they thought she was crazy! Just a fabulous read!!
BRAVO
I was given this story by author for an honest review
I would love to see Kathy's story maybe? Mary tried to tell everyone but, oh no they thought she was crazy! Just a fabulous read!!
BRAVO
I was given this story by author for an honest review
July 14, 2025
Rating: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕 – For every cursed heartbeat I felt in my chest
Whew. This book messed me up in the most lyrical, haunting, and utterly compelling way. It reached into the ancestral bones of me—of all women who've carried burdens not of their choosing—and whispered: Your power was never gone. It was stolen.
From page one, I felt Mary Devlin—her sacrifice, her quiet rage, her terrifying love. She’s no starry-eyed young heroine; she’s a woman who’s been used, endured, and kept surviving anyway. Her story is stitched with grief and shame and a dark, unrelenting tether to a being who is as seductive as he is cruel.
Slanaitheoir isn’t your typical monster. No, he's something worse—he’s beautiful, eternal, and you understand why Mary can’t fully let him go even as he threatens her family. That’s what chilled me: how twisted and true the longing felt. This book doesn’t shy away from complicated power dynamics—it leans in, and dares you to watch.
But when the stakes shift to the next Devlin woman, when Mary’s maternal fire ignites into defiance, I exhaled for the first time in chapters. The whole story builds like a storm over bog and stone—slow, charged, drenched in Irish mysticism and raw, emotional realism.
Walsh writes with this lyrical pain that never lets up, and honestly? I didn’t want it to. I wanted to feel every echo of shame and defiance Mary carried, because it made her strength feel earned. If you’ve ever loved the wrong thing, stayed too long, or dared to fight back when you were told you couldn’t—this book will see you.
Trigger warning? Absolutely. Emotional manipulation, spiritual domination, and generational trauma—all done with a poetic, deliberate edge.
But if you want a gothic, witchy, ancestral kind of dark power tale—where the mountain itself feels alive and hungry—Devil’s Mountain is calling. And trust me… you’ll answer.
Whew. This book messed me up in the most lyrical, haunting, and utterly compelling way. It reached into the ancestral bones of me—of all women who've carried burdens not of their choosing—and whispered: Your power was never gone. It was stolen.
From page one, I felt Mary Devlin—her sacrifice, her quiet rage, her terrifying love. She’s no starry-eyed young heroine; she’s a woman who’s been used, endured, and kept surviving anyway. Her story is stitched with grief and shame and a dark, unrelenting tether to a being who is as seductive as he is cruel.
Slanaitheoir isn’t your typical monster. No, he's something worse—he’s beautiful, eternal, and you understand why Mary can’t fully let him go even as he threatens her family. That’s what chilled me: how twisted and true the longing felt. This book doesn’t shy away from complicated power dynamics—it leans in, and dares you to watch.
But when the stakes shift to the next Devlin woman, when Mary’s maternal fire ignites into defiance, I exhaled for the first time in chapters. The whole story builds like a storm over bog and stone—slow, charged, drenched in Irish mysticism and raw, emotional realism.
Walsh writes with this lyrical pain that never lets up, and honestly? I didn’t want it to. I wanted to feel every echo of shame and defiance Mary carried, because it made her strength feel earned. If you’ve ever loved the wrong thing, stayed too long, or dared to fight back when you were told you couldn’t—this book will see you.
Trigger warning? Absolutely. Emotional manipulation, spiritual domination, and generational trauma—all done with a poetic, deliberate edge.
But if you want a gothic, witchy, ancestral kind of dark power tale—where the mountain itself feels alive and hungry—Devil’s Mountain is calling. And trust me… you’ll answer.
February 1, 2020
Just called The Devlin Witch in my copy. Quite a scary idea, where the women of one family cannot escape possession by a mountain demon. It is their job to protect the others of their community
December 11, 2012
I was afforded the opportunity to read [[ASIN:B008BGICYG Devil's Mountain (Devlin Legacy)]] by author Bernadette Walsh. I did not receive compensation but I was given a free ebook in exchange for an honest review of this book through the Lovers of Paranormal R2R group on Goodreads.
Devil's Mountain is the first novella of this Adult, Paranormal Fiction series.
"You will hate Him for all He's taken, but you will love Him. God help you, you will love Him."
There is always more to a woman and her story, especially when protecting those she loves. Mary Devlin Connelly's life was not always one of isolation and loneliness. She had fallen in love, been married, had children and escaped the mountain. However, fate did not allow her to remain so. The day came when Mary was demanded to return to the mountain and pick-up the burden her mother had carried for so long. Mary's life was torn from her. Her family fell apart and she retreated as required of her home. To Him. It was not what she wanted for herself. It was not what she wanted for any of her descendants. She was willing to suffer Him in order to protect those she loves and the lives of the others of the mountain. She hated Him; she loved Him. It was her responsibility to please Him. It did not matter what pain she would have to suffer, she did it to protect them. As long as he continued to loath her only daughter and Bobby's wife did not have any girls, she would be the end. She would win. He would lose. The future generations would not bare her burdens. After another failed pregnancy, her son Bobby brought his wife to Ireland in an effort to lift her spirits. Then He had glimpsed Caroline. Now, Mary must now fight to remain the final sacrifice for Him, for her family, the people of the mountain. She will not allow Him to continue. Caroline will not have to endure what she did. Mary will be the last. Or will she? What more will the Devlin women have to lose?
The Devil's Mountain has been my first exposure to Bernadette Walsh's work. I found this story captivating, intense and exhilarating from the beginning. Walsh transports her audience from the hectic life of Caroline and Bobby in New York to the tranquil and picturesque seclusion of Mary on her mountain in Ireland. The story is seen from multiple view points providing enlightenment through the different perspectives.
I enjoyed many aspects of Bernadette Walsh's Devil's Mountain; yet, I also found it confusing and frustrating at times. Even though I like the multiple view-points, the transition between the different perspectives, scenes and settings need a nice polishing. The characters were not as complex as I believe Walsh truly intends them to be. The fluctuation of emotions were not weighted or balanced with the significance of an event. During, the most devastating event of the book, when a reader is completely vested and feels the impact of the event with the same emotional and physical devastation as the affected character. That moment where time stand still. The world disintegrates at warp speed around you. Your heart is the one being violently ripped from your heart and eviscerated before your eyes. Well, It wasn't. It flew by. It was an anti-climatic climax. There was a shift in the wind and the emotions floated away. Then zoom-zoom-zoom. Bam! We are left needing, wanting, having to know more.
As I was rereading this book I noticed a weighted parallel in Walsh's story that mirrors that of an abused wife. Torn from her family forced into seclusion and isolation from everyone she cared about. Always being under constant supervision and burdened with the impossible responsibility for being the sole happiness and pleasure for her abuser. The need to sacrifice herself to protect others, the determination that she would do whatever it takes to ensure their safety and security. Like a woman who is unwilling to leave her abusive spouse because he is always sorry, he is sweet and really does care for her. Mary love Him, she prepares herself for Him. She hopes for the kind, loving, gentleness He has once given her; yet, braces herself for the pain he enjoys inflicting on her. Mary is determined to break this cycle and be the last of the women in her family to suffer this abuse.
Although, I was slightly disappointed with the first installment of the series; I will be following Bernadette Walsh's series to its finale. There is much more to know about the Devlin's Legacy. I believe the Devlin women have more to them than Walsh is ready to reveal. So on to the next [[ASIN:B00AEUSDL4 Devil's Shore (Devlin Legacy)]]
Devil's Mountain is the first novella of this Adult, Paranormal Fiction series.
"You will hate Him for all He's taken, but you will love Him. God help you, you will love Him."
There is always more to a woman and her story, especially when protecting those she loves. Mary Devlin Connelly's life was not always one of isolation and loneliness. She had fallen in love, been married, had children and escaped the mountain. However, fate did not allow her to remain so. The day came when Mary was demanded to return to the mountain and pick-up the burden her mother had carried for so long. Mary's life was torn from her. Her family fell apart and she retreated as required of her home. To Him. It was not what she wanted for herself. It was not what she wanted for any of her descendants. She was willing to suffer Him in order to protect those she loves and the lives of the others of the mountain. She hated Him; she loved Him. It was her responsibility to please Him. It did not matter what pain she would have to suffer, she did it to protect them. As long as he continued to loath her only daughter and Bobby's wife did not have any girls, she would be the end. She would win. He would lose. The future generations would not bare her burdens. After another failed pregnancy, her son Bobby brought his wife to Ireland in an effort to lift her spirits. Then He had glimpsed Caroline. Now, Mary must now fight to remain the final sacrifice for Him, for her family, the people of the mountain. She will not allow Him to continue. Caroline will not have to endure what she did. Mary will be the last. Or will she? What more will the Devlin women have to lose?
The Devil's Mountain has been my first exposure to Bernadette Walsh's work. I found this story captivating, intense and exhilarating from the beginning. Walsh transports her audience from the hectic life of Caroline and Bobby in New York to the tranquil and picturesque seclusion of Mary on her mountain in Ireland. The story is seen from multiple view points providing enlightenment through the different perspectives.
I enjoyed many aspects of Bernadette Walsh's Devil's Mountain; yet, I also found it confusing and frustrating at times. Even though I like the multiple view-points, the transition between the different perspectives, scenes and settings need a nice polishing. The characters were not as complex as I believe Walsh truly intends them to be. The fluctuation of emotions were not weighted or balanced with the significance of an event. During, the most devastating event of the book, when a reader is completely vested and feels the impact of the event with the same emotional and physical devastation as the affected character. That moment where time stand still. The world disintegrates at warp speed around you. Your heart is the one being violently ripped from your heart and eviscerated before your eyes. Well, It wasn't. It flew by. It was an anti-climatic climax. There was a shift in the wind and the emotions floated away. Then zoom-zoom-zoom. Bam! We are left needing, wanting, having to know more.
As I was rereading this book I noticed a weighted parallel in Walsh's story that mirrors that of an abused wife. Torn from her family forced into seclusion and isolation from everyone she cared about. Always being under constant supervision and burdened with the impossible responsibility for being the sole happiness and pleasure for her abuser. The need to sacrifice herself to protect others, the determination that she would do whatever it takes to ensure their safety and security. Like a woman who is unwilling to leave her abusive spouse because he is always sorry, he is sweet and really does care for her. Mary love Him, she prepares herself for Him. She hopes for the kind, loving, gentleness He has once given her; yet, braces herself for the pain he enjoys inflicting on her. Mary is determined to break this cycle and be the last of the women in her family to suffer this abuse.
Although, I was slightly disappointed with the first installment of the series; I will be following Bernadette Walsh's series to its finale. There is much more to know about the Devlin's Legacy. I believe the Devlin women have more to them than Walsh is ready to reveal. So on to the next [[ASIN:B00AEUSDL4 Devil's Shore (Devlin Legacy)]]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2012
**MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS**
Okay, this book was a little creepy for me. Many emotions happened for me in this book.
Two Irish families come together for the wedding of Bobby and Caroline. When the mother of the bride, Nellie, sees the mother of the groom, Mary, Nellie starts screaming, telling Caroline she cannot marry into that family. The wedding proceeds anyway. Mary goes back home to Devlin's Mountain in Ireland, where she Is summoned by Slanaitheoir. I'm not sure how that's pronounced by the way. Anyway, Slanaitheoir is some type of demon that pretty much owns the Devlin women. He does some pretty vile things to Mary, who Is owned by him until another Devlin woman Is born. Mary is classified as schizopphrenic but is she really? Or has Slanaitheoir gotten to her head? Mary has a vision of her son Bobby dying. Sure enough, he is killed in New York City on 9/11. Being a New Yorker myself, this took me by surprise and was upsetting. Caroline then visits Mary in Ireland and it seems all hell breaks loose. The love and loss these two women go through is quite profound.
This Book, for me, went from boring, to upsetting, to anger, and sadness. I did like how each chapter went back and forth being told by either Mary or Caroline. It was DECently written but there were times I got confused as to what exactly was happening or who was saying or thinking something. Overall, I think this was a good book with a good premise and the very ending was spooky!
3.5 stars
3 flames
Okay, this book was a little creepy for me. Many emotions happened for me in this book.
Two Irish families come together for the wedding of Bobby and Caroline. When the mother of the bride, Nellie, sees the mother of the groom, Mary, Nellie starts screaming, telling Caroline she cannot marry into that family. The wedding proceeds anyway. Mary goes back home to Devlin's Mountain in Ireland, where she Is summoned by Slanaitheoir. I'm not sure how that's pronounced by the way. Anyway, Slanaitheoir is some type of demon that pretty much owns the Devlin women. He does some pretty vile things to Mary, who Is owned by him until another Devlin woman Is born. Mary is classified as schizopphrenic but is she really? Or has Slanaitheoir gotten to her head? Mary has a vision of her son Bobby dying. Sure enough, he is killed in New York City on 9/11. Being a New Yorker myself, this took me by surprise and was upsetting. Caroline then visits Mary in Ireland and it seems all hell breaks loose. The love and loss these two women go through is quite profound.
This Book, for me, went from boring, to upsetting, to anger, and sadness. I did like how each chapter went back and forth being told by either Mary or Caroline. It was DECently written but there were times I got confused as to what exactly was happening or who was saying or thinking something. Overall, I think this was a good book with a good premise and the very ending was spooky!
3.5 stars
3 flames
January 18, 2014
Reviewed by Deana
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
We begin with a young woman named Caroline at her wedding to Bobby Connelly. The couple met in New York, but both of their families hail from a very small area of Ireland. Both families have roots that tie them back to Devlin’s Mountain. Caroline’s mother Nellie had known Bobby’s mother Mary since childhood. Nellie screams that Mary is a witch and will not approve of the wedding.
Our couple weds and tries to have the normal life. Caroline soon learns the blessings and tragedies of what it means to be a part of the Devlin family.
Devil’s Mountain is a wonderful short story that packs the punch of a full length novel. Told from Caroline and Mary’s point of view, gives us two side of this tale that will surprise you. Mary tells us the history of the Devlin family and their curse. Caroline does not realize that her wants are affected by this curse and puts into motion things that will cause pain later.
I have a hard time writing this, without giving too much away. For a story that is only 122 pages, we get so much information, twists, turns and surprises. You will think “Did that just happen”. This book gets my highest praise. The story flows at a perfect pace. The world building is great, characters are well written and likable both crazy and charming.
Devil’s Mountain is the first in the series. I will be reading book 2.
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
We begin with a young woman named Caroline at her wedding to Bobby Connelly. The couple met in New York, but both of their families hail from a very small area of Ireland. Both families have roots that tie them back to Devlin’s Mountain. Caroline’s mother Nellie had known Bobby’s mother Mary since childhood. Nellie screams that Mary is a witch and will not approve of the wedding.
Our couple weds and tries to have the normal life. Caroline soon learns the blessings and tragedies of what it means to be a part of the Devlin family.
Devil’s Mountain is a wonderful short story that packs the punch of a full length novel. Told from Caroline and Mary’s point of view, gives us two side of this tale that will surprise you. Mary tells us the history of the Devlin family and their curse. Caroline does not realize that her wants are affected by this curse and puts into motion things that will cause pain later.
I have a hard time writing this, without giving too much away. For a story that is only 122 pages, we get so much information, twists, turns and surprises. You will think “Did that just happen”. This book gets my highest praise. The story flows at a perfect pace. The world building is great, characters are well written and likable both crazy and charming.
Devil’s Mountain is the first in the series. I will be reading book 2.
September 23, 2012
This was as it said a Fantasy Romance(Horror) in the genre division. Caroline had one desire, to have kids of her own. But it came at a cost she did not understand.
The story is set against the back drop of Devil Mountain where five families made a bargain with the devil and generation after generation of women must pay the price. Caroline was unaware of this bargain, unaware of the devil that only her mother-in-law could see. The village thought the woman Mary was out of her mind but she was the only one who could see him and have a physical relationship with him. The sex scenes edge more on the brutal savagery of the animal that he is, then the love between man and wife.
Bobby Mary's son loved Caroline, "the plain Jane" in the story and no one could understand this but yet he did and he protected her. Because of his love people liked her and accepted her except for Mary. I admired him for this. Mary knew the price that had to be paid and was not willing to pay it, not for Caroline.
The plot was well thought off the characters strong making it a good read.
The story is set against the back drop of Devil Mountain where five families made a bargain with the devil and generation after generation of women must pay the price. Caroline was unaware of this bargain, unaware of the devil that only her mother-in-law could see. The village thought the woman Mary was out of her mind but she was the only one who could see him and have a physical relationship with him. The sex scenes edge more on the brutal savagery of the animal that he is, then the love between man and wife.
Bobby Mary's son loved Caroline, "the plain Jane" in the story and no one could understand this but yet he did and he protected her. Because of his love people liked her and accepted her except for Mary. I admired him for this. Mary knew the price that had to be paid and was not willing to pay it, not for Caroline.
The plot was well thought off the characters strong making it a good read.
August 29, 2012
This book was a paranormal romance with some pretty creepy vibes. The mythology behind it was intense, with the Devlin women being enslaved to the devil Slanaitheoir until he freed them with their death and he would take the next female in the line. Yup. Sounds like a "marriage" made in Hell alright. This book incited all kinds of emotions and is filled with love, longing, hate and a whole lot of loss. Sometimes it was hard to tell which POV I was reading, but this did not detract too much from the overall feel of the book.
From the onset of page one, I was hooked. The voice grabbed me. It was sensual in its wording and yet was able to capture even the smallest detail and have you reveling in the verbiage. Lovely!
4.5/5
From the onset of page one, I was hooked. The voice grabbed me. It was sensual in its wording and yet was able to capture even the smallest detail and have you reveling in the verbiage. Lovely!
4.5/5
February 20, 2013
I signed up to read the second book in this trilogy and went ahead and bought the first because I can't stand not reading things in order. I sit down to read this book and inhaled it in one sitting. The plot is thrilling as you fear for the characters lives and the lives of their loved ones. The characters themselves are full of real personalities, having faults of real people. I love and hate Mary and Caroline and could not stop reading about their fate. This book was quick to read and has a good overall flow. I can't wait to read the next one.
Read
April 1, 2012Review to come.
*ARC provided by author for review
*ARC provided by author for review
Read
July 15, 2012I have been asked to not review this book upon the author's request.
July 14, 2012
Great book, can't put it down!! Just when I think I know what is going to happen there is a surprise. This book has both romance and mystery
December 26, 2012
I didn't care about any of these characters. Really flat.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews