Otherworld: Nine Tales of Wonder and Romance from Medieval Ireland

by Lisa M. Bitel

Bitel retells little-known, anonymous tales from Ireland, written a thousand years ago or more, about human and supernatural lovers who cross the boundaries between our world and the Otherworld (síd). Set in a lost time of heroes, demi-gods, warrior queens, and otherfolk of the Irish Otherworld (áes síde), these stories inspired some of the earliest fairy tales of France and England--but they are sexier, funnier, and bloodier than better-known medieval myths and romances.

Genres: Folklore, Short Stories, Irish Literature, Fiction, Fantasy, Ireland

248 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2024

About the author

I am a recovering academic, medievalist, Celticist, and budding novelist. Few things make me happier than an intellectually intriguing historical or historal-fantasy novel with vivid landscapes and characters that you wish were you.

Reviews

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this... to the best of my ability <3 I wish there was a name pronunciation guide/a family tree/something to help keep me organized.

[hannah cheesar · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

Really fun read on ancient tales of the Otherworldly in Ireland and what happens when mortals feel bold on Samhain (celtic origin of Halloween) and wanna dabble with magical beings. Most of these short stories were depressing, but I loved the author’s introduction and commentary. I wish there was a pronunciation guide.

[M · Rating 3 out of 5]

good introductory text