Song of the Fianna

Warriors of the Fianna #1

by Sophia Nye

A bard fighting for his family falls for his best friend’s sister.An outsider seeking retribution…After his sister suffers a violent attack from their local king, Finn Ulfsson is willing to do anything to protect his peasant family from further abuse. When his lifelong plan of becoming a master bard crumbles around him, Finn happens upon one final opportunity to provide protection for his family–joining the ranks of the legendary Fianna warriors. The grueling trials and risk of death are nothing compared with the shame of returning home a failure.As Finn navigates the challenges of the trials and builds bonds with his fellow competitors, he accidentally falls for the one woman he can’t his best friend’s sister.Meets a princess who sacrificed everything.Eva nic Murrough had no trouble sacrificing her future on behalf of her brother. Taken willingly as a hostage of war, Eva spends her days in social exile as an outsider–until her brother and his friend arrive to rescue her. Though she doesn’t want to be rescued, for the only way out is for someone else to take her place, Eva does long for companionship.When her brother’s charming friend Finn agrees to give her music lessons, a glimmer of light breaks into Eva’s gloomy world.Trouble threatens as Finn and Eva face the realities of their situation. As a hostage, it would be impossible for Eva to secure approval for a marriage. Even if she somehow managed it, how could Finn betray his best friend? Could he still save his family? Could she betray hers?Join Finn & Eva for an unforgettable tale of love, duty, and the music that brings them together.Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!Warriors of the FiannaBook 1 - Song of the FiannaBook 2 - Prince of FireBook 3 - Into the Ashes

Genres: Historical Romance, Medieval

214 pages, Paperback

Published December 15, 2023

About the author

Sophia has been writing down stories since she learned how to use a pencil. She loves learning almost as much as she loves writing, pursuing both her undergraduate and master’s degrees. Most of her studies involved Ireland and England, and she is excited to expand her research into Scotland. She’s been thoroughly enjoying the background reading!

After marrying her high school sweetheart, attending grad school, and moving nearly ten times in as many years, Sophia and her husband settled into a lake house in northern Indiana. They live happily in the middle of nowhere with two little boys, two atrociously rude doggos, and one ornery cat.

Reviews

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Song of the Fianna by Sophia Nye is the first in a new series, the Warriors of the Fianna. The Fianna is a group of elite soldiers who must pass seven trials in order to become a member. It is an ancient brotherhood brought to life by the aging king, Brian Boru. At this time, Ireland is split into nine kingdoms and many small fiefdoms in which the leader is called a king. Brian has spent his life trying to unite all of Ireland. Some see him as a genius, others as a traitor. One of the smaller kingdoms is led by a man named Morda whose niece, Eva Nic Murrough, Princess of Laigen, has been taken hostage by Brian in a probably useless attempt to avoid another war. Her brother, Dallan, is bound and determined to free her and so, along with his friend, Finn, has journeyed to Brian’s stronghold to complete in the trials to become a member of the Fianna. He is not allowed to speak with her but he can at least see her and make sure she is well. He uses his friend, Finn, to communicate with her. Finn eventually falls in love despite the fact that Eva swears she will never marry, her two previous fiances having been killed by yet another cousin. She refuses to change it.

Eva is a strong character, as needs must for a princess. She is stubborn, creative, and hard-working. In order to keep from boredom she has taken over the running the of castle and is doing a good job with it. Finn is a musician at heart but because of his immigrant status at this point, has not been allowed to further his musical education. He agrees to teach her to play the harp, a skill that has been denied her based on her gender. The reader can guess where this is leading. What they cannot guess is the twists and turns the journey will take, greater than those already traveled. Good story, excellent characters, just enough history, it was a terrific read. It is a true middle ages novel taking place in Ireland. Kudos!

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Song of the Fianna by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #SophiaNye #SongOfTheFianna

[Rainelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading the book. The characters were most entertaining. Finn was my favorite character. His confidence and strong will to protect Eva was the sweetest thing a man could do for the woman he loves. I liked that the writer introduced the characters and their family relations in short detail. The number of characters in the book were to many give a detailed bio about. The introduction of the families and their Kingdoms discussing their place over clashing for land was explained in detail that was so easy to follow by. The romance was a sweet story told in a romantic way.

[Thea Lochlainn Theaologies Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love so much when a book gives me exactly what I was seeking, and Song of the Fianna did exactly that.

To start, I am the biggest sucker for medieval Irish history. I spent the past two years studying it as a hobby in my free time... just because. I don't usually expect much from books advertising themselves as taking place in medieval Ireland as I find they're usually just in it for the vibes and the settings are generally nonsense.

But this one... this was a delicious little morsel of near 11th century Eire, which I just ate up. Sophia Nye grasps her setting and plot well enough that folks interested in this time period from an academic standpoint will certainly enjoy, while simultaneously not ostracizing readers unfamiliar with it. There are nice little details but it certainly isn't bogged down with them.

The plot was solid as well, especially for being such a quick read. Our heroine, Eva, a willing hostage to keep her family safe. Our hero, Finn, seeking a way to better the lives of his ostracized family. The lonely princess who falls for the kindly bard tasked by her brother to keep her company as he faces a set of challenges to prove himself as a warrior of great esteem. Gratuitous harp playing. What is not to love about this book?

While there is a little bit of smut, it's certainly not the focal point, which is great for a story of this length. The most important thing is the falling in love, which was exactly what I was looking for.

My only real complaints are the few things that are pretty predictable and, honestly, the fact that it is so short. I would have liked to see more of the trials, however I also understand how repetitive that could have ended up, and it would not have added much- if anything- more to the story.

I have already read (and reviewed!) Prince of Fire, the second book in the series, so I have to say I am already looking forward to the third book!

4.5/5 stars

[Patricia A · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love tales featuring Celtic heritage

And this one was enticing, with bards and warriors (a resurrected Fianna no less!), guilt price and a classic sense of honor, and all under the auspices of kings and a high king. It did my soul good to bask in the tradition for several hours. The characters were relatable, flawed but trying, and people I'd gladly put in my real world.

I've never read Sophia Nye before but she tells a compelling story I read compulsively. I'd certainly try her again, Celtic or no. If you want a tale full of compassion and anger, sacrifice and fulfillment, challenge and achievement this one's for you.

[Alice Anne Bluhm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Irish tales

I loved the way you were able to get the picture! Eva was delightfully innocent.Were they to become Fianna Fáil or fail the tests. I am of Irish heritage and could see the story.It was a beautiful story and I can’t wait for the next one!!! I recommend it for anyone who wants to read a great story.

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story! It captured my attention from page one and kept me totally hooked until the end! I am very eager for the next book!!!

Thank you for the opportunity to review!!

[Lois Templin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Song of the Fianna is the first in a series about medieval Irish warriors in an elite force. They are tested and must pass many trials to become one of the revered and feared Fianna. This first book centers around Finn and Eva, who fall in love during the training and testing of a new group of potential Fianna warriors, but they have their own obstacles to overcome. Finn’s passion is the harp but circumstances have forced him to use his strength and cunning to become one of the most deadly soldiers in the realm. Eva is a princess who has loved and lost and is now resigned to using her position to help her family. Love of music brings them together, but loyalties and duty push them apart.

Sophia Nye”s books are rich with detail. She weaves together history and lore to create a story a filled with excitement, danger, beauty, and love. This was a truly enjoyable read and I am looking forward to more stories about the warriors of Fianna.

[Margaret Bale · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful tale

This is a very enjoyable and happy story, with great characters and a simple storyline. Just a very sweet love story without too much emphasis on violence and villains, although any story must have a certain amount of these. It is by no means syrupy sweet, just makes you remember being young and curious about life. You will have no nightmares after reading this. Fairly well written, by an author I would recommend and will certainly read again.

[Jean H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautiful story

Didn’t want it to end. Almost put it down in the beginning but so glad I kept going. A true love story with a happy ending. Thank you

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

interesting

This is not my usual genre in reading but I did read it and enjoy it and it definitely had some heas. At times I was bit lost in trying to figure out things but not often. There again probably because for me it was a bit different type of story.

[Cindy C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Loved It! Song of the Fianna, First in the Warriors of the Fianna series does not disappoint. Sophia Nye has written a story filled with unforgettable characters that are well thought out and each and everyone comes across clearly as their individual personalities become more than just part of the tale, heart felt dialogue, sizzling passion, a action packed plot that brims with fast paced tension-building twist and turns, with setting descriptions which brings this read together perfectly and will keep you reading from the moment you begin the journey until the very end.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It was the right about of romantic and military angst. Perfection!

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first of a new series, Warriors of the Fianna. Fianna is an elite force of medieval Irish warriors. In order to become a member, one must pass many tests and go through rigorous trials. As Finn is trying to become one of these warriors he falls in love with Eva, who has been taken as a hostage of war and is also the sister of his best friend, Dallon. As Finn is working to complete his trials to become a member of the Fianna, he keeps his eye on Eva and makes sure she is well and communicates messages between Eva and Dallon. Finn eventually falls in love with her and despite her own feelings, Eva has already loved and lost too many times and vows never to marry again. Not to mention the fact that Dallen considers Finn falling in love with Eva a betrayal. There are obviously many challenges for them to overcome, but ultimately the story comes to a happy conclusion.
I think this is a captivating and exciting start to a new series and I am anxious to read more!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A romance born out of the ravages of war and greed for power, I found myself invested in this novel. When his best friend persuades him to join King Brian in a bid to complete the trials that need to be accomplished to become a Fianna warrior, Finn is also tasked with being the go-between between Dallan and Eva and ensuring that Eva feels protected. Finn never expected to fall in love with the beautiful hostage and with the threat of a powerful warlord looming over her, Eva tries to keep her heart intact, but the more time she spends with Finn, the harder it gets. As the men go through their grueling tasks, Finn and Dallen discover that they are stronger than they thought, although Dallen considers Finn's love for Eva to be a betrayal of trust. Fortunately, the reason for Eva's hesitation is resolved and the novel comes to a sweet and happy conclusion. The book is well-written, emotional, and fast-paced, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I received a copy of this romance as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Truly interesting Irish history. I'm a huge fan of historical romance and have consumed a plethora of books on Scottish and English history. This is my first on Irish history and this author, neither disappointed me in the least. Eva is a hostage to a powerful king. Finn is one of the men trying to gain access to the exclusive fighting team but at heart he's a poet and harpist. The author takes us through a series of trails each man must secure in order to be part of the elite. Brilliantly written with great depth to the characters. I walked away with mixed feelings about both sides who battled as they each had honorable and merit. This is the first in the series and I will be following it with great interest.

[Audrey (BooksandAudities) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️’s
🌶️🌶️ 🌶️

[Paola Dassori · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice novel, one of those to read on the beach under the umbrella. All in all a missed opportunity; the Fianna are very fascinating and little-known figures, at least here in Italy, and deserved to be better represented.
The author did not know how to dose the element of surprise, for example I did not understand until more than halfway through the book why Finn should devote himself to helping someone he has known just for a few days like Dallan, and even the figure of Finn's sister remains rather sketched, at a certain point she disappears completely to then return in the final scenes.
In particular, I was amused by the fact that the "good" protagonists are all as handsome as fashion models, while the "bad" Baeth is the only ugly one.
The amorous encounters between Finn and Eva reminded me a lot of the Harmony novels that I read in my adolescence.
In any case, a pleasant and carefree read.