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Tanyth Fairport #3

The Hermit of Lammas Wood

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Some journeys take you where you need to be.Tanyth Fairport makes her way through the Lammas Wood to discover the last of the Old Witch Women isn't exactly what she expected. When greedy businessmen from the mainland threaten those she loves, Tanyth must put aside her fear and give herself over to her gifts.A journey twenty winters in the making may come to naught when Tanyth learns the secret of The Hermit of Lammas Wood.

314 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 12, 2014

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274 people want to read

About the author

Nathan Lowell

46 books1,634 followers
Nathan Lowell has been a writer for more than forty years, and first entered the literary world by podcasting his novels. His sci-fi series, The Golden Age of the Solar Clipper grew from his long time fascination with space opera and his own experiences shipboard in the United States Coast Guard. Unlike most works which focus on a larger-than-life hero (prophesized savior, charismatic captain, or exiled prince), Nathan centers on the people behind the scenes--ordinary men and women trying to make a living in the depths of space. In his novels, there are no bug-eyed monsters, or galactic space battles, instead he paints a richly vivid and realistic world where the "hero" uses hard work and his own innate talents to improve his station and the lives of those of his community.

Dr. Nathan Lowell holds a Ph.D. in Educational Technology with specializations in Distance Education and Instructional Design. He also holds an M.A. in Educational Technology and a BS in Business Administration. He grew up on the south coast of Maine and is strongly rooted in the maritime heritage of the sea-farer. He served in the USCG from 1970 to 1975, seeing duty aboard a cutter on hurricane patrol in the North Atlantic and at a communications station in Kodiak, Alaska. He currently lives in the plains east of the Rocky Mountains with his wife and two daughters.

Awards & Recognition
2008 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for Full Share
2008 Podiobooks Founder's Choice Award for Double Share
2008 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for South Coast
2009 Podiobooks Founder's Choice Award for Captain's Share
2009 Parsec Award Finalist for Best Speculative Fiction for Double Share
4 out of 10 Books on Podiobooks.com Top Overall Rated by Votes (2. Double Share, 3. Quarter Share, 5. Full Share, 8. Half Share) -- as of Jan 4, 2009
6 out of 10 Books on Podiobooks.com Top Overall Rating (1. Ravenwood, 2. Quarter Share, 3. Double share, 4. Captain's Share, 5. Full Share, 7. South Coast) -- as of Jan 4, 2009

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5 stars
986 (62%)
4 stars
454 (28%)
3 stars
123 (7%)
2 stars
11 (<1%)
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4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for Eric.
645 reviews34 followers
January 21, 2021
The land of Korlay could exist wherever you want it to exist. It just is. There is no world building here. The Tanyth Fairport trilogy follows our heroine in her travels to finally meet the Hermit of Lammas Wood. A person her teachers along the way have told her it is her destiny to find.

Tanyth has a power she has learned about along the way, but the Hermit holds the secrets and final wisdom required. I say power, because it is more that than magic or some other wizard shenanigan. Like the land of Korlay, it simply is.

Author Lowell writes about people. Through the excellent use of dialog the reader becomes one with the characters. There is evil in this tale as the two before it, but it is evil that exists everywhere. Greed and man's inhumanity to man. No spirits, no sprites, no wicked witches. Mankind. Lowell shares the good and the bad.

I characterize these stories as easy reading. Feel good again tales. Some would call the reads popcorn. Fun stuff. Nothing you have to get serious about. Just go with the flow. If there are writings within that you do not get emotional over, you are not human.
Profile Image for Shane.
631 reviews19 followers
January 19, 2014
It takes a fine talent to make ordinary seem extraordinary and make the extraordinary seem ordinary at the same time. Nathan Lowell creates characters that feel as comfortable as a casual friend or a cousin you see a couple times a year. You like them, you understand them, and you are always interested in learning more about them. Lowell also uses a series of short, episodic, chapters that lend itself well to his style of storytelling.

Hermit is the final installment in the Tanyth Fairport series. The first two books cover portions of Tanyth's journey to Lammas Wood and this installment is what happens when she arrives. As in life; the journey is better than the arrival. I enjoyed this book and it was an appropriate and necessary conclusion to the tale. It is always a little disappointing when you find the 'man behind the curtain' and in this place all the explanations that were also to its detriment. It makes sense and was a good read, it just diminished the sense of wonder that the first books held.

Profile Image for Katharina.
Author 14 books25 followers
January 19, 2014
This might be the single-most action packed Nathan Lowell book ever! :D
Fantastic read, great end to the trilogy and I already can't wait to read more Tanyth stories! :) :)
Profile Image for Virginia Adi.
1,112 reviews9 followers
June 29, 2020
I enjoyed this series--unusual twist to the telling and a good ending.
181 reviews
December 28, 2021
what w wonderful trilogy

I started Lowell with Quarter Share, and never looked back. While very different from his science fiction works, these books share his great writing and gentle touch. I found these during the late 2022 Omicron spike and they have been a balm. Well worth your time
Profile Image for Sydney.
1,339 reviews67 followers
April 7, 2022
5 Change Has Come Stars

The Hermit of Lammas Wood is the third book in the Tanyth Fairport Adventures series by Nathan Lowell.

Gertie's last big adventure. That's what this final book should be called, but it'd be much too telling of spoilers if it was. I enjoyed thebcompany of Gertie and her almost nonsensical rambling about goats and talking trees. But I imagine when someone gets so settled in their truths they don't feel much of a need to explain them to others.

It feels conclusive, and simply right, for this end to Tanyth Fairport's journey of twenty one winters ti absolve us of a few concerns from the previous book. Specifically the trouble with the insurers and Malloy. So that we may find comfort, not only in her reaching her true home and destination, but that some key players in her struggles to reach will have less worries throughout their lives.

I am a little sad that we won't see more of Ravenwood. If the author was taking a survey to start on a spin-off series I would definitively vote for the notion. I simply miss that original cast of characters, that entirely changed our dear Mother Fairport and viewpoint of the world at large. Making her capable of the change the world needed. They do not only pray to the All Mother, but the All Father as well, yes?

I would have also like to explore the caves behind the hut more, and perhaps seen more reconciliation with her son Robert. But, I'm satisfied with this ending still.
104 reviews2 followers
November 19, 2022
Gentle, Mysterious, Dangerous

I just finished the last book in this three book series. Although I would love to follow more of the lives of these characters, it has a very satisfying ending.

The first two books have audio, but the third book does not.

In Tanyth Fairport's universe, women don't have a lot of choices. Their youth, their marriage and child-bearing years, then old age. But unlike our world, the women of her world can find a life and purpose after their children have grown up - if they have the drive and the courage.

I always enjoy Mr Lowell's writing! This series is no different. His characters are well defined and you get to know them -- they become friends. His descriptions make morning oatmeal and a pot of tea sound so appetizing.

Even though our universe doesn't have the "mystical" aspects Tanyth's universe does, I find it inspirational to search for and find, in my old age with grown children, a place where my hard won experience and wisdom can be used to help those in need.

I take this book PG-13. There are deaths, hints of abuse, and hardships that might be difficult for younger ears.

I highly recommend this book and series.
(Read with Kindle Unlimited Subscription.)
53 reviews3 followers
May 22, 2023
I loved this entire series SO much! The main character of an older woman who journeys on her self-appointed path for knowledge is so well drawn. We find out as we go that she courageously got herself out of her abusive marriage, found the help she needed to set herself on her chosen path, and goes from teacher to teacher, finding her power and her gifts along the way. She chooses to invest in herself and go her own way in life; not easy in a traditional culture. When a new challenge is brought to her, she consciously makes the choice to linger and work in a different way. She chooses to invest in relationships and in teaching, postponing her travel. It is so fulfilling to see her be a courageous bad-ass but then realistic to think she really didn't do all that; this is how we second-guess ourselves. As an older woman myself, reading about someone my age in a powerful role is so very refreshing.

Not a typical adventure story but so very good and well-written. The way I judge good writing is when I can see the characters, locations and story-line in my head as I read. That's my favorite sort of reading, that I can lose myself in the story.
Profile Image for Clay Kallam.
1,105 reviews29 followers
May 3, 2024
Nathan Lowell concludes his unusual series in the same style as the previous two: A low-key, pleasant book that manages to acknowledge the evil in the world while emphasizing the good.

The protagonist is especially unusual for this genre, as Tanyth Fairport is in her mid-50s, not beautiful, not rich, not powerful. In fact, she's spent 20 years wandering through a pre-industrial world on her own, fleeing an abusive husband.

Late in life, she develops some powers she not only doesn't understand but refuses to accept, but they come in handy as she seeks out the Hermit of Lammas Wood in the far north of an unnamed planet.

Book three is the last leg of that journey, and it involves complications and some danger, but Lowell's easygoing style is a perfect companion.

The series may lack dragons or space battles or mages at war, and for some, that is a justifiable turnoff. For those like me, though, "The Hermit of Lammas Wood" is welcome walk down a forest path not often taken.
Profile Image for Cameron .
202 reviews2 followers
October 7, 2020
Please sir may I (we)have another

I am a Nathan Lowell fan -there I said it. He can write no wrong(yes, that is a pun). I just finished the third book in the Tanyth Fairport trilogy- The Hermit Lammas Wood. I have read all three books in the last 10 day. They were soup for a very weary soul. The characters are well developed and gracious, the story fun, the setting delightful. Lowell knows his craft well. He doesn't write the space opera pablum, that we see out in the sci fi / fantasy world, he writes with heart not a check in mind. Please if you are a fan of Debra Geary or David Gerrold or just well written story and prose buy it, read it, share it. On a side note to my fellow Wiccans this is a great read for the season.
99 reviews5 followers
January 9, 2024
Tanyth, Fueled by Tea and Oatmeal, Reaches Her Goals

If I had a picture of Tanyth Fairport, I would hang it above my desk to remind me to find comfort and joy in small things and that all the evil people I see on the daily news are balanced by the greater number of kind, supportive people I see around me every day.

This final book in the trilogy oversees, of course, good triumph over evil, but only after hard work and effort. Tanyth is learning and accepting her place in life. And although that's nice, it is satisfying to see her and the hermit drop the hammer on some evil doers. Often, there is humor involved.

I enjoyed this trilogy and somehow left it better able to face the challenges in my own life.
Profile Image for Tina M.
705 reviews6 followers
November 30, 2024
Entire Trilogy 5 Stars!!!!!

I don’t think I’ve ever rated every book in a series 5 stars each. This one hit for me all the way across the board. I can actually see myself rereading this one again, which rarely happens!

Very well wrapped up, no loose ends, and it’s good to see Tanyth end up in a life she’s worked hard for, and deserves!

My only disappointment was a statement at the end that said this was indeed the last in the series, but that more books out of Lammas Woods were to be released in 2015.
I’ve been unable to find any further novels by Nathan Lowell pertaining to the characters or setting. The entire series is abundant with material that would make additional novels worth exploring.
17 reviews
July 12, 2023
I Miss Them Already

Just finished the last book of the Tanyth Fairport trilogy. What amazing adventures I had and what awesome friends I made! There is real magic in everyone, if one has the desire and drive to seek it. Nathan Lowell imbues his works of realistic fiction with both. And his knowledge of the "before" times and sailing are mind blowing. I read all 3 books in just three days! Now it's time for a nice cuppa and a lie down. I'll ready my pack and bedroll, ready for our next adventure on the trail of life. So mote it be!
32 reviews
September 14, 2023
This is book 3/3 and a very exciting conclusion to a terrific series. It's full of action and interesting events. I love how Nathan Lowell writes about the minutia of the mundane and mixes it in with a touch of magic. It's reassuringly grounding and mystical at the same time.

I've never seen a book with old ladies as the main characters, let alone the heroes of the story. It was a joy to cheer them on, along with the younger female characters. All empowered and individual.

I listened to this book, and the narrator's voice and acting were wonderful.
40 reviews
October 19, 2023
Finally, ….sad and happy

At the pace I was reading these books, not sure a fourth would have been great for me so luckily there were only three (couldn’t put them down).

Every page was exciting, I was kept wondering how would the story unfold.

This last book took things to a whole new level, I was amazed, descriptions so good I felt like I was there.

The lead characters were beautiful , unique and well developed, story was well written, a little excitement thrown in and a happy camper I was.

Would I attempt more books by this author? Most definitely
Profile Image for josey.
23 reviews4 followers
May 24, 2025
I was so sad for the series to end! Again, perfect narration...gentle storytelling amidst deep, personal themes and experiences. I've loved the Shamanistic, Pagan and earthy vibes throughout the whole series. Nathan Lowell surprised me with his creation of the loving, resilient, vulnerable, and oh-so-strong wise-woman, Tanyth. She's the kind of woman I'd love to sit with in her little hut over a cup of herbal tea and just talk the day away, listening to her stories and wisdom <3


This might be one of the few series I will read again!
41 reviews
March 15, 2021
Engaging trilogy

I was pulled into this series by the practical, world worn humor of the lead character Tanyth Fairhope. A traveling student of the world learning about her unexpected gift coming into bloom in her middle age. There was enough going on that I cared about the other characters and not so many introduced that I couldn't keep them straight. The rolling adventures were fun to read and a menopausal Harry Potteresque lead was in interesting twist.
Profile Image for Leone Hankey.
50 reviews
June 11, 2023
This is the last book of a delightful trilogy. It's a gentle fantasy adventure in a kind of fictional medieval setting about a woman on a long journey learning she has magical powers derived from nature and from her age, as well as her relationship with her older mentors and the young women she in turn mentors. It reminds me of the wonderful Steerswoman novels by Rosemary Kirstein. Not everyone's cup of tea, but definitely mine.
1,580 reviews
October 23, 2023
The conclusion of the Tanyth Fairport series. Tanyth leaves North Haven to find Gertie Pinecrest, the Hermit of Lammas Wood. Along the way, the fate of many of the ships lost between Kleesport and North Haven is explained. Tanyth finds her long lost son. Tanyth learns from Gertie Pinecrest and finds some of the answers to her own powers.
Well paced, some good action, excellent conclusion to the story.
Profile Image for MyDoRyS.
1,035 reviews4 followers
May 25, 2024
First half great, but second half...meh! I know that the book is about the trials and tribulations of this woman getting to the woods and meeting the hermit, but they waste so much time on other stuff that the plot itself gets lost in translation. Also the characters sometimes read like robots rather than humans, like if they had some type of disability. Anyway, I needed to finish the series because of my OCD, but it was not as good as I expected. Onto my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
312 reviews
November 20, 2024
Change is coming

Tanyth has finally made to Lammas Wood to learn from her last teacher. Adventure finds them quickly as she is trying to learn her way around this new life with the Hermit. After all the tales Tanyth had heard in town about the Hermit of Lammas Wood, she wasn’t sure what to expect. Gertie Pinecrest is not like her other teachers but Tanyth is sure she will learn plenty from the old woman.

Share the adventure. It is an amazing path to walk.
12 reviews1 follower
November 20, 2019
I actually liked it better than the second book, although the slang is still annoying. At least the tea drinking isn't as prominent, and there is more action going on. Although the author announces more adventures for Tanith, apparently he is done with the story, since there hasn't been a new book since 2015.
114 reviews1 follower
January 12, 2022
Enjoyable set of dtories

Liked the first, the second, the third. Not one weak book in the set. Liked enough to buy all three although first read them first on kindle unlimited with subscription. There seemed to be a promise of further adventures in 1996. Were there further books written set I inflamed woods?
Profile Image for Mender.
1,450 reviews14 followers
March 3, 2022
Well that was again a rather sweet, gentle book, and a good ending to the series to finally get to meet up with the Hermit finally. She was an excellent old dear.

but as for the rest of it - a good mystery, a lovely mix of magic and practical lore, and a happy ever after. Can't ask for more than that, right?
294 reviews7 followers
September 9, 2023
Interesting

This book was well written. Unfortunately, I read them out of order. This was the first one I chose to read. I didn’t know there were two others. I hate that . I never lost interest in this book. It wasn’t long winded, which is a plus I will go back and read the others and follow the author.
Profile Image for Beverly Fuqua.
871 reviews7 followers
April 1, 2024
I have read almost everything Nathan Lowell has written, and loved every page. Whether out in the stars or deep in the woods, they have all been amazing.
I didn't read this series for a long time because it didn't sound like something I'd particular like but I did enjoy it, especially this last book. Tanyth's adventures with Gertie were incredible to read. I wish there were more.
2,386 reviews
August 8, 2024
An absolute delight of a book. Fantasy and magic and adventure told without a strapping hero or heroine but with a charming and humble wise woman seeking knowledge. The characters, the settings, the odd and scary situations held me to the story in this third book of the trilogy as did the first two books. Oh, and a perfect ending to the entire series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews

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