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Chronicles of an Urban Druid #1
A Gilded Cage
Ye screw with this lass, ye get put on yer ass.
Life sucker-punched me...
I have family I didn’t know about, a magical heritage laying its claim, and a mystery I apparently need to solve.
There are three things I love most in life…my wild and crazy Irish family, Redbreast Whiskey at Shenanigans, and living in Toronto.
Having grown up with five older brothers, I can fight my way out of most situations, either with my wicked sense of humor or my fists. Often both. But when a back-alley brawl leaves me marked with a bizarre Celtic crest on my back, I become a beacon for all things whacked and weird.
My dad is obviously freaked when he sees the tat, but he won’t discuss it.
So, I do what any stubborn red-headed lass would—I ignore all advice and fly to the Emerald Isle to get answers.
And yeah…you know that saying about hindsight being 20/20?
True Story.
Look out, druid world. This mac Cumhaill is like no other.
Will Fiona survive coming into her powers? Will those in Ireland survive Fiona? Can Toronto survive an urban druid and her mythical bear?
Life sucker-punched me...
I have family I didn’t know about, a magical heritage laying its claim, and a mystery I apparently need to solve.
There are three things I love most in life…my wild and crazy Irish family, Redbreast Whiskey at Shenanigans, and living in Toronto.
Having grown up with five older brothers, I can fight my way out of most situations, either with my wicked sense of humor or my fists. Often both. But when a back-alley brawl leaves me marked with a bizarre Celtic crest on my back, I become a beacon for all things whacked and weird.
My dad is obviously freaked when he sees the tat, but he won’t discuss it.
So, I do what any stubborn red-headed lass would—I ignore all advice and fly to the Emerald Isle to get answers.
And yeah…you know that saying about hindsight being 20/20?
True Story.
Look out, druid world. This mac Cumhaill is like no other.
Will Fiona survive coming into her powers? Will those in Ireland survive Fiona? Can Toronto survive an urban druid and her mythical bear?
Audible Audio
First published September 27, 2020
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About the author
Auburn Tempest
84 books180 followersAbout Auburn Tempest
Auburn Tempest is a pen name for JL Madore, a multi-genre novelist giving life to Fantasy, Paranormal, and Sci-Fi Romance. Under the pen name, Auburn Tempest, she writes Urban Fantasy without the sexy-steamy. But whether Romance or not, she loves to twist Alpha heroes and kick-ass heroines into chaotic, hilarious, fast-paced, magical situations and make them really work for their happy endings.
She lives outside of Toronto, Canada with her love of over 35 years and a menagerie of family, friends, and animals.
To learn more, you can follow her at:
https://www.facebook.com/ReadersofAub...
http://www.jlmadore.com
http://www.twitter.com/jlmadore
Auburn Tempest is a pen name for JL Madore, a multi-genre novelist giving life to Fantasy, Paranormal, and Sci-Fi Romance. Under the pen name, Auburn Tempest, she writes Urban Fantasy without the sexy-steamy. But whether Romance or not, she loves to twist Alpha heroes and kick-ass heroines into chaotic, hilarious, fast-paced, magical situations and make them really work for their happy endings.
She lives outside of Toronto, Canada with her love of over 35 years and a menagerie of family, friends, and animals.
To learn more, you can follow her at:
https://www.facebook.com/ReadersofAub...
http://www.jlmadore.com
http://www.twitter.com/jlmadore
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 351 reviews
December 2, 2022
The cover had me really intrigued to start the series but unfortunately the story wasn't for me. Listened to the audiobook but didn't get very invested in it
November 19, 2021
I'm not entirely sure where I picked up the kindle edition of this book, but it gave me a discount on the audiobook, so what does that matter?
I don't know exactly what to say about this book. It had many things that I liked, and some things that irked me - more on that below - but generally, it was enjoyable. There were a bit too many male characters involved. I had trouble keeping them separate from each other, as they were mostly introduced in a bunch.
One of the things that irked me was how the author didn't seem to write action scenes. In some cases, they skipped right over discussions and fights, and gave us a flashback of it instead of letting us experience it. In other cases, they would ruin the flow of a scene by throwing in a ''shit. And then everything blew up'', or something similar. It's OK if it's done once or twice, when it actually fit the scene, but it didn't here. Every action sequence started with a ''and then things happened'', and then we're told what happened - if we don't get a flashback in the next chapter.
The other thing that irked me isn't related to the writing or craft of a book, but more the subtle meaning of things said. There was one scene, in a cellar, that felt thrown in so the author could state their opinion about ''snobby Europeans'' and how we ''don't allow worship of different religions'', which is just plain wrong. It didn't feel like a story moment, but more like the author wanted to tell everybody about this view point.
As an European - Norwegian, to be precises - I can say that all religions and lifestyles are welcome. Sure, there are some shitheads that don't respect diversity, but that's the minority. And yes, we're proud of our heritage, but so are the non-native inhabitants of America. Why else would you all make such a fuss about where your ancestors came from?
The point I'm trying to make, I think, is that there's nothing wrong with taking pride in your story, as long as you respect others wish to do the same, and I really didn't feel like the author did that. At least not in a good way. It felt like a jab.
And I now realize I'm ranting about this, so I'll stop the review here, before I dig myself further into a hole of annoyance.
The things mentioned aren't enough to keep me from continuing on with the series, for I'm very much in a mood for things that feel old, and despite this book being set in our time, the way it introduced Old World magic and traditions - other than the thing mentioned above - fullfils that need. At least for now.
I think the only thing I'll finish with, is that I wish this book was longer, or split into two, so we could take part in more of the MC's training and how she handled the sudden change in her world. It felt sudden and very superficial, and left something to be desired.
I don't know exactly what to say about this book. It had many things that I liked, and some things that irked me - more on that below - but generally, it was enjoyable. There were a bit too many male characters involved. I had trouble keeping them separate from each other, as they were mostly introduced in a bunch.
One of the things that irked me was how the author didn't seem to write action scenes. In some cases, they skipped right over discussions and fights, and gave us a flashback of it instead of letting us experience it. In other cases, they would ruin the flow of a scene by throwing in a ''shit. And then everything blew up'', or something similar. It's OK if it's done once or twice, when it actually fit the scene, but it didn't here. Every action sequence started with a ''and then things happened'', and then we're told what happened - if we don't get a flashback in the next chapter.
The other thing that irked me isn't related to the writing or craft of a book, but more the subtle meaning of things said. There was one scene, in a cellar, that felt thrown in so the author could state their opinion about ''snobby Europeans'' and how we ''don't allow worship of different religions'', which is just plain wrong. It didn't feel like a story moment, but more like the author wanted to tell everybody about this view point.
As an European - Norwegian, to be precises - I can say that all religions and lifestyles are welcome. Sure, there are some shitheads that don't respect diversity, but that's the minority. And yes, we're proud of our heritage, but so are the non-native inhabitants of America. Why else would you all make such a fuss about where your ancestors came from?
The point I'm trying to make, I think, is that there's nothing wrong with taking pride in your story, as long as you respect others wish to do the same, and I really didn't feel like the author did that. At least not in a good way. It felt like a jab.
And I now realize I'm ranting about this, so I'll stop the review here, before I dig myself further into a hole of annoyance.
The things mentioned aren't enough to keep me from continuing on with the series, for I'm very much in a mood for things that feel old, and despite this book being set in our time, the way it introduced Old World magic and traditions - other than the thing mentioned above - fullfils that need. At least for now.
I think the only thing I'll finish with, is that I wish this book was longer, or split into two, so we could take part in more of the MC's training and how she handled the sudden change in her world. It felt sudden and very superficial, and left something to be desired.
February 20, 2023
This entire series deserves, in my opinion only of course, both ZERO stars, and FIVE stars.
I read them on Amazon Kindle.
First, the five stars are awarded for the story arc, and the stories themselves. They're absorbing and on the whole, well enough constructed. Certainly sufficient to keep me going through 15 books, as well as through the agonies which would result in zero stars, some of which, but only some, are mentioned below.
1. The proof-reading and editing are appalling. Spelling, grammatical, and factual errors abound throughout, and even allowing for the well known disinclination towards adverbs shown by American authors, the errors piled up left, right, and centre.
2. The main family or as they refer to themselves, clan, are called Cumhaill. As they are meant to be descendants of Fionn mac Cumhaill, they should of course refer to themselves as mac Cumhaill. At first I thought the authors were trying to be funny, because of the English pronunciation of Cumhaill ("Cool", more or less, so they'd be "Clan Cool"). However, as the books progressed, the authors' disdain for any form of accuracy when it comes to things Irish becomes crystal clear, so in this case it's sloppy research, and sloppy execution.
3. The main family is Canadian, of Irish extraction. Other important characters in the books are Irish as well as other nationalities. I absolutely loathe Northern American authors trying to draw characters in countries other than their own as so often, as they do here, they get it wrong, over, and over, and over again. Using American or Canadian slang and syntax in the mouths of Irish people is just lazy. More importantly, we KNOW they're Irish, you told us, you, the authors, don't have to insult your readers with the absolutely hokey cod-Irish accent you gave them. I was honestly embarrassed for the authors and annoyed for the Irish. Talk about patronising.
Also, learning a few Irish slang words, misunderstanding entirely how offensive they are, and then having an Kerry grandmother say them is incongruous and incorrect. No-one's Kerry granny speaks like that. Not one. Did no-one proof read these books? Did no-one edit these books?
The authors try to use mythology, and link it into their druids' activities. On the whole they don't do a bad job. However conflating the ancient Goddess of Sovereignity of Ireland (the Morrigan) with a character from the Arthurian Tales (Morgan le Fay) popularised in the 11th century IN ENGLAND & WALES (note to authors, different countries from Ireland) is very poor indeed, even ignorant one might say. Certainly insulting to the Morrigan.
In addition, changing well established mores of folklore, such as selkies, really grates. Selkies are seals, not otters.
The authors also try to bring in present day Druid (e.g. Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids aka OBOD), ritual pieces and make out that they're ancient. No. Iolo Morganwg invented the whole thing in the 19th century, and it's been added to and amended since. None of it is ancient. None. They try to make out that a piece (we swear by peace and love to stand etc.) is an ancient wedding blessing. Apart from its inception in the 19th century, it's commonly used as a vow at the end of druid ceremonies, to connect with one another, and the wider universe, in peace and love. Silly authors, they should have asked an actual Druid, or got in touch with an organisation such as the aforemtioned OBOD, or the Pagan Federation.
There's an awful lot more, and an great number of insulting, patronising, and offensive errors throughout these 15 books.
The main character comes across on occasion as more than a bit dim, and lacking in curiosity, and in her knowledge of mundane matters. Perhaps the authors were trying to get a laugh with the tired old "Amazons come from the Amazon" trope, but even allowing for lack of general knowledge, if this child of the 21st century had watched the latest Wonder Woman film with Gal Gadot, she would have known that this wasn't the case. In one of the books' end notes, Auburn Tempest states that the character is based on her niece.
Where the authors use Irish names and words, they need to learn to use the fada. It's there for a reason of pronunciation, not decoration.
I am also entirely unsure of the position of the main character (Fiona) in relation to her overwhelmingly male family. She seems to have been, from an early age, a stand-in, in terms of domestic duties, for her dead mother, and this continues through the books. She also can't bear not to have her brothers living with her, which is somewhat odd too. The whole scenario also puts me in mind of some sort of abuse really. Not sexual, but certainly emotional and physical abuse from her father and brothers, has become normalised for the main character. The more I think on this, the more I find it unsettling and more than a little disturbing.
My final annoyance. There is a (so-called) Man o' Green in the books, introduced at first as "Patty". I winced at that a bit, but there was no mention of his real name until much much later in the series, where it is of course revealed that his real name is Padraig. (I KNEW it!).
No-one Irish, anywhere, uses "Patty" as a shortening of Padraig (apologies for missing fada, but goodreads won't let me add a character) EVER. No, NEVER. It riles Irish people to apoplexy when they hear Northern Americans refer to St. Patrick's Day as "Patty's Day". It's either St. Patrick's Day or Paddy's Day. The common shortening of Padraig in Ireland is Paudie. He is unlikely to be referred to as Paddy either, though it is possible in some areas of the island and usually when the anglicised version of Padraig, Patrick, is used.
Patty? Never. Sheer ignorance on the part of both these authors.
That pretty much sums up the level of writing on this series. Lazy and ignorant.
In my opinion only of course.
I read them on Amazon Kindle.
First, the five stars are awarded for the story arc, and the stories themselves. They're absorbing and on the whole, well enough constructed. Certainly sufficient to keep me going through 15 books, as well as through the agonies which would result in zero stars, some of which, but only some, are mentioned below.
1. The proof-reading and editing are appalling. Spelling, grammatical, and factual errors abound throughout, and even allowing for the well known disinclination towards adverbs shown by American authors, the errors piled up left, right, and centre.
2. The main family or as they refer to themselves, clan, are called Cumhaill. As they are meant to be descendants of Fionn mac Cumhaill, they should of course refer to themselves as mac Cumhaill. At first I thought the authors were trying to be funny, because of the English pronunciation of Cumhaill ("Cool", more or less, so they'd be "Clan Cool"). However, as the books progressed, the authors' disdain for any form of accuracy when it comes to things Irish becomes crystal clear, so in this case it's sloppy research, and sloppy execution.
3. The main family is Canadian, of Irish extraction. Other important characters in the books are Irish as well as other nationalities. I absolutely loathe Northern American authors trying to draw characters in countries other than their own as so often, as they do here, they get it wrong, over, and over, and over again. Using American or Canadian slang and syntax in the mouths of Irish people is just lazy. More importantly, we KNOW they're Irish, you told us, you, the authors, don't have to insult your readers with the absolutely hokey cod-Irish accent you gave them. I was honestly embarrassed for the authors and annoyed for the Irish. Talk about patronising.
Also, learning a few Irish slang words, misunderstanding entirely how offensive they are, and then having an Kerry grandmother say them is incongruous and incorrect. No-one's Kerry granny speaks like that. Not one. Did no-one proof read these books? Did no-one edit these books?
The authors try to use mythology, and link it into their druids' activities. On the whole they don't do a bad job. However conflating the ancient Goddess of Sovereignity of Ireland (the Morrigan) with a character from the Arthurian Tales (Morgan le Fay) popularised in the 11th century IN ENGLAND & WALES (note to authors, different countries from Ireland) is very poor indeed, even ignorant one might say. Certainly insulting to the Morrigan.
In addition, changing well established mores of folklore, such as selkies, really grates. Selkies are seals, not otters.
The authors also try to bring in present day Druid (e.g. Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids aka OBOD), ritual pieces and make out that they're ancient. No. Iolo Morganwg invented the whole thing in the 19th century, and it's been added to and amended since. None of it is ancient. None. They try to make out that a piece (we swear by peace and love to stand etc.) is an ancient wedding blessing. Apart from its inception in the 19th century, it's commonly used as a vow at the end of druid ceremonies, to connect with one another, and the wider universe, in peace and love. Silly authors, they should have asked an actual Druid, or got in touch with an organisation such as the aforemtioned OBOD, or the Pagan Federation.
There's an awful lot more, and an great number of insulting, patronising, and offensive errors throughout these 15 books.
The main character comes across on occasion as more than a bit dim, and lacking in curiosity, and in her knowledge of mundane matters. Perhaps the authors were trying to get a laugh with the tired old "Amazons come from the Amazon" trope, but even allowing for lack of general knowledge, if this child of the 21st century had watched the latest Wonder Woman film with Gal Gadot, she would have known that this wasn't the case. In one of the books' end notes, Auburn Tempest states that the character is based on her niece.
Where the authors use Irish names and words, they need to learn to use the fada. It's there for a reason of pronunciation, not decoration.
I am also entirely unsure of the position of the main character (Fiona) in relation to her overwhelmingly male family. She seems to have been, from an early age, a stand-in, in terms of domestic duties, for her dead mother, and this continues through the books. She also can't bear not to have her brothers living with her, which is somewhat odd too. The whole scenario also puts me in mind of some sort of abuse really. Not sexual, but certainly emotional and physical abuse from her father and brothers, has become normalised for the main character. The more I think on this, the more I find it unsettling and more than a little disturbing.
My final annoyance. There is a (so-called) Man o' Green in the books, introduced at first as "Patty". I winced at that a bit, but there was no mention of his real name until much much later in the series, where it is of course revealed that his real name is Padraig. (I KNEW it!).
No-one Irish, anywhere, uses "Patty" as a shortening of Padraig (apologies for missing fada, but goodreads won't let me add a character) EVER. No, NEVER. It riles Irish people to apoplexy when they hear Northern Americans refer to St. Patrick's Day as "Patty's Day". It's either St. Patrick's Day or Paddy's Day. The common shortening of Padraig in Ireland is Paudie. He is unlikely to be referred to as Paddy either, though it is possible in some areas of the island and usually when the anglicised version of Padraig, Patrick, is used.
Patty? Never. Sheer ignorance on the part of both these authors.
That pretty much sums up the level of writing on this series. Lazy and ignorant.
In my opinion only of course.
October 8, 2020
This is the first book in 'An Urban Druid' story series.
I wasn't able to find a book description for this one... so will try to summarize. Fionna is girl around 18-25 that lives in Toronto, Canada with her father and several siblings, whom all of are officers. One night she is in an altercation and a tattoo starts appearing on her back. Wanting to know more about it, she ends up running to Ireland (their home country) to seek family to help explain what is going on. While there she learns she is a druid, and of an important line. She does some training, then runs home to Canada, to try to prove she can be an urban druid.
That pretty much sums it up. The book reads about that fast as well. Like many other books I have read from Anderle, there is no thick and heavy plot to tediously read through and decipher to figure out what is happening, or going to happen. There is not much of anything "deep" at all. Characters have very little of background, except when something has to be explained that was 'thought', or 'acted on' by a character. No descriptions really of characters or the world around them, unless it is a pertinent detail tot he story.
I picked this one up as I do like druid stories, urban or otherwise, and thought maybe it would have a little twist in the story. As stated before, I wasn't expecting a heavy story, and it does read nice and fast. I did like the basic storyline, of how she finds out about being a druid, and some of the other stuff. But at other times, I felt the story was being rushed, and they were trying to cram too many events into one book. I don't know if it was for word count purposes, or actual detail that is going to be important later. Some of the events were just..."What? Why'd that happen? Oh, for that...". Like many of Anderle's books, everything happens to the main character...good or bad... and they always win their way through it with minimal injury, or it miraculously (or magically) is healed.
I will admit that regardless how I feel about the writing technique, I did enjoy the story and will be watching for the next book in the series.
I wasn't able to find a book description for this one... so will try to summarize. Fionna is girl around 18-25 that lives in Toronto, Canada with her father and several siblings, whom all of are officers. One night she is in an altercation and a tattoo starts appearing on her back. Wanting to know more about it, she ends up running to Ireland (their home country) to seek family to help explain what is going on. While there she learns she is a druid, and of an important line. She does some training, then runs home to Canada, to try to prove she can be an urban druid.
That pretty much sums it up. The book reads about that fast as well. Like many other books I have read from Anderle, there is no thick and heavy plot to tediously read through and decipher to figure out what is happening, or going to happen. There is not much of anything "deep" at all. Characters have very little of background, except when something has to be explained that was 'thought', or 'acted on' by a character. No descriptions really of characters or the world around them, unless it is a pertinent detail tot he story.
I picked this one up as I do like druid stories, urban or otherwise, and thought maybe it would have a little twist in the story. As stated before, I wasn't expecting a heavy story, and it does read nice and fast. I did like the basic storyline, of how she finds out about being a druid, and some of the other stuff. But at other times, I felt the story was being rushed, and they were trying to cram too many events into one book. I don't know if it was for word count purposes, or actual detail that is going to be important later. Some of the events were just..."What? Why'd that happen? Oh, for that...". Like many of Anderle's books, everything happens to the main character...good or bad... and they always win their way through it with minimal injury, or it miraculously (or magically) is healed.
I will admit that regardless how I feel about the writing technique, I did enjoy the story and will be watching for the next book in the series.
April 21, 2024
→A Gilded Cage.←
Author: Auburn Tempest
Genre: Fantasy
Age Rating: 16+
Spice: 1.5/5🌶
Content Warnings: cursing (f-bomb and more),
Will I read more books by this author if they have any? Yes!
~Thoughts~
BWAHAHA THIS WAS SO FUNNY!!!! This book gives me similar vibes to another series I love ~The Para-Military Recruiter~ :D I loved the main characters SASS it was AMAZING! Highly recommend this series ❤
Author: Auburn Tempest
Genre: Fantasy
Age Rating: 16+
Spice: 1.5/5🌶
Content Warnings: cursing (f-bomb and more),
Will I read more books by this author if they have any? Yes!
~Thoughts~
BWAHAHA THIS WAS SO FUNNY!!!! This book gives me similar vibes to another series I love ~The Para-Military Recruiter~ :D I loved the main characters SASS it was AMAZING! Highly recommend this series ❤
March 14, 2022
Entertaining druid fantasy made more fun by the fact that it's a family affair.
July 16, 2023
I liked A Gilded Cage by Auburn Tempest and Michael Anderle, but I didn't love it.
What I adored was the big family, the bickering between them and the friendships. I'm also a big fan of druids and animal companions, so that also was a plus for me!
The humour mostly worked well for me, and I had a good chuckle ever here and there! I also liked the voice and tone of the main character, even though she felt a bit more like ateenager than a young woman at times.
While I enjoyed the strong female lead, I had a bit of a problem with the many male side characters. Her 5 brothers for example felt so similar I could hardly keep them apart. I'd either have liked less different people on page, or have them be more fleshed out and individual.
The Irish part will probably not appeal to actual Irish readers, it didn't feel especially deep or well researched, but for someone who knows little about the language / history, it felt just fine to me.
Now to the bits I didn't like. The book keeps skipping past the interesting bits all the time! We skip a lot of her training, we skip most of the fight scenes, we even sort of skip the big end scene.
So the MC makes a plan, doesn't tell anyone what the plan is. Then after said plan is set in motion we skip to the end, or even to the next scene afterwards. I mean this is fine to use at times if the actual action scenes aren't adding to the story for example but if you skip past most of the things I'd have liked to read, it starts grating.
I especially chose this as it was supposed to be low / no romance - and yes there is very little. But not as in it's just not a big part of the book, but we keep getting told she's too busy learning about being a druid for now, but might change her mind. And there's already two love interests set up for future books, so I feel it's definitely coming up.
What I adored was the big family, the bickering between them and the friendships. I'm also a big fan of druids and animal companions, so that also was a plus for me!
The humour mostly worked well for me, and I had a good chuckle ever here and there! I also liked the voice and tone of the main character, even though she felt a bit more like ateenager than a young woman at times.
While I enjoyed the strong female lead, I had a bit of a problem with the many male side characters. Her 5 brothers for example felt so similar I could hardly keep them apart. I'd either have liked less different people on page, or have them be more fleshed out and individual.
The Irish part will probably not appeal to actual Irish readers, it didn't feel especially deep or well researched, but for someone who knows little about the language / history, it felt just fine to me.
Now to the bits I didn't like. The book keeps skipping past the interesting bits all the time! We skip a lot of her training, we skip most of the fight scenes, we even sort of skip the big end scene.
So the MC makes a plan, doesn't tell anyone what the plan is. Then after said plan is set in motion we skip to the end, or even to the next scene afterwards. I mean this is fine to use at times if the actual action scenes aren't adding to the story for example but if you skip past most of the things I'd have liked to read, it starts grating.
I especially chose this as it was supposed to be low / no romance - and yes there is very little. But not as in it's just not a big part of the book, but we keep getting told she's too busy learning about being a druid for now, but might change her mind. And there's already two love interests set up for future books, so I feel it's definitely coming up.
March 3, 2023
The synopsis drew me to this story! The beginning was fun, but it didn't hold my attention for long! Too bad because I liked the clan and friends.
October 6, 2021
I received a free copy of this book from Tantor audio. I voluntarily reviewed it.
I liked the idea of an Urban Druid and when I saw that this one was narrated by Rachel Dulude I jumped on the chance to listen to this one. I can definitely recommend the audio version as the narrator did a great job with this. Unfortunately something was missing to really push this story to a 4 star for me.
A Gilded Cage is told from the point of view of Fiona. Fiona lives in Toronto with her family. She has a great life, but things are getting shaken up when a mysterious magical tattoo appears on her back and she jumps on the first place to Ireland after an invite from her just discovered grandparents. What follows is the revelation that she is a druid and her discovering her powers and trying to figure out what to do next.
In general I liked the idea of the story and there are plenty of great and fun scenes. I did feel that sometimes the story lacked a bit of a solid direction or a red line to where the story is going. It mostly felt like a sum of multiple scenes related to her druid-ness. There is a bit at the end where there is a bad guy, but most of the story before that didn't really deal with it. Nevertheless it was still entertaining. I also thought it was a bit full of popular culture references.
I liked Fiona well enough, although she felt a bit like the typical snarky and sassy urban fantasy protagonist. She had her moments where I really liked her, but also parts where I just would've liked to connect to her a bit more. There are a few scenes where she realized she did something wrong and I liked those. As well as the few where she knows her path and stands her ground. I also liked how while she was new to all this druid stuff she did her best and learned as fast as she could. I liked how much she cared for her family.
There are some interesting side characters. Fiona has a big family as well as some friends and then people she meets in Ireland and more. I did struggle remembering which brother was who, she has a whole bunch of them and most of the time all I remembered was that the person talking was one of her brothers. They don't have a enough page time and enough distinction for me to remember more than that. There are two possible love interests, but it's really only a possible hint at this point and only at the end of the book Fiona is even thinking in that direction. The rest of the book she's too busy with becoming a druid. I liked her bear, he has quite the personality and I liked Fiona's bond with him.
I am so glad I listened to the audio version of this one. Rachel Dulude did an awesome job narrating this one. All the Irish accents and words really brought that Irish feel to those characters and places. I liked all the different voices and accents she did for the characters.
To summarize: I had a fun time listening to this one. It just was missing something for me to really push it up to a 4 star. I liked the idea of an urban druid, although that's only introduced later in the book. the plot feels a bit meandering and without clear direction at times. The start felt a bit slow as there is a lot Fiona has to learn. Fiona was likable enough, although I never liked her as much as I wanted to. She felt a bit like the typical snarky and sassy urban fantasy protagonist. I liked her care for her family and how she stood up for what she wanted and also was willing to admit her mistakes. I really liked the narrator for this book and the way she did all the voices and accents.
I liked the idea of an Urban Druid and when I saw that this one was narrated by Rachel Dulude I jumped on the chance to listen to this one. I can definitely recommend the audio version as the narrator did a great job with this. Unfortunately something was missing to really push this story to a 4 star for me.
A Gilded Cage is told from the point of view of Fiona. Fiona lives in Toronto with her family. She has a great life, but things are getting shaken up when a mysterious magical tattoo appears on her back and she jumps on the first place to Ireland after an invite from her just discovered grandparents. What follows is the revelation that she is a druid and her discovering her powers and trying to figure out what to do next.
In general I liked the idea of the story and there are plenty of great and fun scenes. I did feel that sometimes the story lacked a bit of a solid direction or a red line to where the story is going. It mostly felt like a sum of multiple scenes related to her druid-ness. There is a bit at the end where there is a bad guy, but most of the story before that didn't really deal with it. Nevertheless it was still entertaining. I also thought it was a bit full of popular culture references.
I liked Fiona well enough, although she felt a bit like the typical snarky and sassy urban fantasy protagonist. She had her moments where I really liked her, but also parts where I just would've liked to connect to her a bit more. There are a few scenes where she realized she did something wrong and I liked those. As well as the few where she knows her path and stands her ground. I also liked how while she was new to all this druid stuff she did her best and learned as fast as she could. I liked how much she cared for her family.
There are some interesting side characters. Fiona has a big family as well as some friends and then people she meets in Ireland and more. I did struggle remembering which brother was who, she has a whole bunch of them and most of the time all I remembered was that the person talking was one of her brothers. They don't have a enough page time and enough distinction for me to remember more than that. There are two possible love interests, but it's really only a possible hint at this point and only at the end of the book Fiona is even thinking in that direction. The rest of the book she's too busy with becoming a druid. I liked her bear, he has quite the personality and I liked Fiona's bond with him.
I am so glad I listened to the audio version of this one. Rachel Dulude did an awesome job narrating this one. All the Irish accents and words really brought that Irish feel to those characters and places. I liked all the different voices and accents she did for the characters.
To summarize: I had a fun time listening to this one. It just was missing something for me to really push it up to a 4 star. I liked the idea of an urban druid, although that's only introduced later in the book. the plot feels a bit meandering and without clear direction at times. The start felt a bit slow as there is a lot Fiona has to learn. Fiona was likable enough, although I never liked her as much as I wanted to. She felt a bit like the typical snarky and sassy urban fantasy protagonist. I liked her care for her family and how she stood up for what she wanted and also was willing to admit her mistakes. I really liked the narrator for this book and the way she did all the voices and accents.
October 22, 2020
It was a very near thing, I almost bailed on this book in the first chapter, because it was so boring, and the constant switching between past/present verb tenses was driving me absolutely batty. Luckily, I stuck with it, and after the first chapter, things smoothed out considerably, and while there was still a bit of verb tense changes in mid sentence, at least the story got a whole lot better. I'd say, if you liked Kevin Hern's druid series, then this one should provide quite a bit of interest. It's quite different, but there are enough common themes to make them at least passing acquaintences, and if you didn't like the Hern series, perhaps this one won't have enough in common to make it dislikable for you.
As long as the rest of the books adhere to the formula found in this book (providing the first chapter at least is left out), then I see no reason why I wouldn't continue with the series, this is a rather interesting story.
As long as the rest of the books adhere to the formula found in this book (providing the first chapter at least is left out), then I see no reason why I wouldn't continue with the series, this is a rather interesting story.
July 4, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. When I first started reading it, I wasn’t sure I would like it. It pleasantly surprised me. I loved the writing style as well as the Irish theme to it. Excited to start the next one!
did-not-finish
June 21, 2024DNF at 20%. Enh. Not working for me.
March 23, 2022
Another one of which I am not a fan. There are *so* many people. I adore relationships in books, but there are so MANY here, that none of them shine. There is a love triangle building up. I kept forgetting the MC was an adult (she sounded just like a teen!) until she was bar tending or drinking.
I listened to this one and the reader did a good job. However, the Irish accents were quite thick (and, to my ear, well done!) and I struggled to understand them in places where they were deep.
There was just too much in this story and not enough development.
Disappointed.
I listened to this one and the reader did a good job. However, the Irish accents were quite thick (and, to my ear, well done!) and I struggled to understand them in places where they were deep.
There was just too much in this story and not enough development.
Disappointed.
June 12, 2023
4-4.5 stars. This was a fun book with a fun MC. Fiona is sarcastic, witty, snarky, a sister to five older brothers so she’s used to holding her own, which comes in handy when she thwarts an “attack” outside the family pub activating a family mark. This leads to the discovery of the family Druid heritage and a trip to Ireland to meet previously unknown grandparents. Fiona’s banter with Sloan is excellent and Lol. Add in bear who she magically binds to her and then her brothers, father, and grandparents and you have a wonderful story of magic, family and discovery b
April 29, 2021
First book was a lot of fun. Fiona Mac Cumhaill is an Irish Canadian girl, youngest of 6. Her Da and 5 brothers are all cops. Fiona receives a letter from her grandda in the old country begging for her to come and save his life.
A family with a deep druidical background Fiona is about to get access to her legacy.
Enjoyed the book, could have done with less romance and I am disgusted by the thought of a Hawaiian pie being called pizza. If there ends up with romance between Fiona and Sloan I'm not going to be happy.
A family with a deep druidical background Fiona is about to get access to her legacy.
Enjoyed the book, could have done with less romance and I am disgusted by the thought of a Hawaiian pie being called pizza. If there ends up with romance between Fiona and Sloan I'm not going to be happy.
Read
May 6, 2022I'm enjoying this but saying that Canada's "land has no depth of history" is pretty anti-Indigenous. I do think the author means the settler culture but that isn't said. And when Fi says it's actually a melting pot of multiple cultures, she doesn't list any Indigenous Peoples either
October 6, 2024
This started off slow but grew on me . The beginning has a lot of world building that definitely becomes important as the story unfolds. My favorite character is the funny, magical, giant, killer bear. I'm looking forward to the 2nd book.
October 11, 2023
Audiobook, 4.5 Stars!
Read
May 15, 2021DNF
February 19, 2023
Urban fantasy with a strong female lead. But while Fiona’s clearly special she also has her faults which makes her only more likeable in my book.
Love the settings and characters with all their dynamics. Who wouldn’t want an animal companion that can speak?
Looking forward to read more about Ireland and the family’s heritage.
Love the settings and characters with all their dynamics. Who wouldn’t want an animal companion that can speak?
Looking forward to read more about Ireland and the family’s heritage.
November 11, 2024
Leider haben mich Charaktere und Story nicht wirklich überzeugt.
Read
March 22, 2023Fun change of pace! 3.5+
October 13, 2021
This was a nice surprise. I was worried that it was another one of those wannabe urban fantasy novels that was written by some mediocre writer and with Michael Anderle’s name added to the book just to increase sales. Well, I was wrong. I quite liked this book.
Well, the basic story is one I quite like, main protagonist learns that magic is real and that he or she is part of the magical world. So maybe it was not that surprising that I liked it but I’ve tried books with the same premise that have failed miserably due to poor implementation. This one did it well.
The book dives into Irish druid mythology in a quite nice way. The main protagonist is very likable and, as it turns out, quite competent once she’s gotten over her first surprise over actually being a druid. I also like that she is a strong character, known to kick an arse or two from time to time, already before she is dumped into the world of magic.
The rest of the characters are, mostly, just as likable and the books is a very nice mix of discovery, surprises, learning, adventure and some magical ass-kicking. The main protagonist as well as her friends are quite sharp tonged and the dialogue is very much to my taste.
The dialogue is quite…Irish and sometimes I have to re-read a sentence or two to get the meaning but that is not really a problem and, to me, it actually added to the fun-factor. I’m not sure if the dialogue is 100% authentic but it’s close enough for this non-Irish person.
Overall, this book is a solid 4 out of 5 stars for me and I will continue this series as well probably have a look at the author’s other series, Misty’s Magic and Mayhem, as well.
Well, the basic story is one I quite like, main protagonist learns that magic is real and that he or she is part of the magical world. So maybe it was not that surprising that I liked it but I’ve tried books with the same premise that have failed miserably due to poor implementation. This one did it well.
The book dives into Irish druid mythology in a quite nice way. The main protagonist is very likable and, as it turns out, quite competent once she’s gotten over her first surprise over actually being a druid. I also like that she is a strong character, known to kick an arse or two from time to time, already before she is dumped into the world of magic.
The rest of the characters are, mostly, just as likable and the books is a very nice mix of discovery, surprises, learning, adventure and some magical ass-kicking. The main protagonist as well as her friends are quite sharp tonged and the dialogue is very much to my taste.
The dialogue is quite…Irish and sometimes I have to re-read a sentence or two to get the meaning but that is not really a problem and, to me, it actually added to the fun-factor. I’m not sure if the dialogue is 100% authentic but it’s close enough for this non-Irish person.
Overall, this book is a solid 4 out of 5 stars for me and I will continue this series as well probably have a look at the author’s other series, Misty’s Magic and Mayhem, as well.
July 30, 2022
A rushed story (Spoilers)
The magic system in this book seems like it could be really cool. The lead character just figures it out. The book just glosses over all the details. It is like this with everything. At one point she has a plan to do something and on the next page it picks up after the something.
Half way through the book the lead starts having a catch phrase it's weird and out of place.
This book should stick to one storyline. The first story about finding out who she is and saving a family member would have been a great story by itself. It would have slowed the story and given author time to further explain the magic system. Instead we get a bunch of highlights.
The second story is worse but it would have made an okay sequel. She returns home passes out powers, things happen, etc.
The climax of the story is the worst, there's all these bad guys but she has a plan. She doesn't explain the plan. The fighting starts and it's immediately over. How did the bear rescue the family? If they called for support and drove to the place how did the family get captured to begin with? Why did she activate her cat powers and then not use them? This is a good rough draft but it needs to be rewritten.
The magic system in this book seems like it could be really cool. The lead character just figures it out. The book just glosses over all the details. It is like this with everything. At one point she has a plan to do something and on the next page it picks up after the something.
Half way through the book the lead starts having a catch phrase it's weird and out of place.
This book should stick to one storyline. The first story about finding out who she is and saving a family member would have been a great story by itself. It would have slowed the story and given author time to further explain the magic system. Instead we get a bunch of highlights.
The second story is worse but it would have made an okay sequel. She returns home passes out powers, things happen, etc.
The climax of the story is the worst, there's all these bad guys but she has a plan. She doesn't explain the plan. The fighting starts and it's immediately over. How did the bear rescue the family? If they called for support and drove to the place how did the family get captured to begin with? Why did she activate her cat powers and then not use them? This is a good rough draft but it needs to be rewritten.
December 31, 2020
Tight Irish Family with a Magical Daughter
I absolutely love the storyline of a tight, Irish family with five boys who become policemen and their sister who steps up to replace their mom when she passed away and now cares for her family but with a definite twist. Having wrestled and dealt with five brothers growing up, Fiona is no pushover and holds her own in a fight verbally and physically. Their policeman Da left Ireland 40 years ago and turned his back on his family’s centuries long Druid traditions and magical abilities. Suddenly, the Druid magic of the Fianna and it’s magical warrior beast has manifested in his daughter, Fiona, and all hell breaks loose.
I’ve read many magical fantasy series so to continue learning about new mythological characters in this book due to the historical research incorporated into the story is wonderful!
My personal view about the developing characters in his story is not so wonderful. I was unable to connect with any of them because they are “acting on the surface of the story”, there is no depth to them to help the reader understand and relate to them better. Here’s just one scene that is a glaring example, when Fiona sees the 8’ heaps of dead bodies and shrugs it away..what kind of person does that? Why? What makes a 23 year old numb to that kind of horror?
Fionna’s dialogue is always superficial and supposed to be funny or snarky. Snark is often a reflexive action, what drives hers? I think back to when I was 23, was I simply reactive to life around me without much thought? Maybe, I don’t really remember, but as an older reader is that all I want to experience with this character? What are her insecurities, what does she yearn for, what is it about Toronto that she loves, what kind of trees were planted in that landscape renovation, what did that look like, did the bear create a cave of sorts for him to hang out in etc etc etc. Where are the details of sight, sound, touch that makes the reader FEEL the depth of the characters and their surroundings?
At the logical, historical, procedural level this book is written and edited exceptionally well. At the emotional level it is a frustrating read because of the lack of depth in the characters.
Addressing the author’s concern of the romantic triangle: ha, I hear you, I’m a one person at a time kinda woman but Fiona’s decision to do nothing about the two men interested in her and to instead focus on herself is a breath of fresh air AND it creates subtle tension. I’m not a hot and heavy romance novel fan, I’m a fan of well developed urban/paranormal fantasy and other genres so I much prefer the heroine focused on learning her history and skills while developing as a strong, independent woman. I thought you both captured that element very well.
This is hard to rate because snark and half words are not always funny or interesting as dialogue and it becomes monotonous through the entire book so only 3 stars however the variety of characters, the historical context, the sheer Irishness of the story and the steady plot line is five stars so four stars.
I absolutely love the storyline of a tight, Irish family with five boys who become policemen and their sister who steps up to replace their mom when she passed away and now cares for her family but with a definite twist. Having wrestled and dealt with five brothers growing up, Fiona is no pushover and holds her own in a fight verbally and physically. Their policeman Da left Ireland 40 years ago and turned his back on his family’s centuries long Druid traditions and magical abilities. Suddenly, the Druid magic of the Fianna and it’s magical warrior beast has manifested in his daughter, Fiona, and all hell breaks loose.
I’ve read many magical fantasy series so to continue learning about new mythological characters in this book due to the historical research incorporated into the story is wonderful!
My personal view about the developing characters in his story is not so wonderful. I was unable to connect with any of them because they are “acting on the surface of the story”, there is no depth to them to help the reader understand and relate to them better. Here’s just one scene that is a glaring example, when Fiona sees the 8’ heaps of dead bodies and shrugs it away..what kind of person does that? Why? What makes a 23 year old numb to that kind of horror?
Fionna’s dialogue is always superficial and supposed to be funny or snarky. Snark is often a reflexive action, what drives hers? I think back to when I was 23, was I simply reactive to life around me without much thought? Maybe, I don’t really remember, but as an older reader is that all I want to experience with this character? What are her insecurities, what does she yearn for, what is it about Toronto that she loves, what kind of trees were planted in that landscape renovation, what did that look like, did the bear create a cave of sorts for him to hang out in etc etc etc. Where are the details of sight, sound, touch that makes the reader FEEL the depth of the characters and their surroundings?
At the logical, historical, procedural level this book is written and edited exceptionally well. At the emotional level it is a frustrating read because of the lack of depth in the characters.
Addressing the author’s concern of the romantic triangle: ha, I hear you, I’m a one person at a time kinda woman but Fiona’s decision to do nothing about the two men interested in her and to instead focus on herself is a breath of fresh air AND it creates subtle tension. I’m not a hot and heavy romance novel fan, I’m a fan of well developed urban/paranormal fantasy and other genres so I much prefer the heroine focused on learning her history and skills while developing as a strong, independent woman. I thought you both captured that element very well.
This is hard to rate because snark and half words are not always funny or interesting as dialogue and it becomes monotonous through the entire book so only 3 stars however the variety of characters, the historical context, the sheer Irishness of the story and the steady plot line is five stars so four stars.
October 3, 2023
This was a title that was recommended by a person I met on a dating site (no, really?!) It's a fun romp, more adventure than spiritual, and the protagonist is an Irish Canadian woman from a family of cops.
Before I describe the story I need to acknowledge the narrator, who nearly incited me to rage-quit the whole thing by not being able to pronounce common Irish names. The Rose of Tralee is not Traily.. (got to admit I was confused when the authors referred to a symbol with 4 roses on it - that symbol is supposed to have 3 roses, but maybe they were feeling lucky). Fionn mac Cumhaill... his name is not Feeyon!! €#@!* but then what can I expect from someone who doesn't seem to be able to tell the difference between a Scots or Irish accent. *Deep breath* ok.. I'm good
This is a story that's just supposed to be good fun. It starts out semi-mystical but devolves into a quest chain that ends up with cute young men, and geeky pop-culture references to Baby Yoda and Baby Groot. The cute references to Star Trek, Star Wars and Pokémon kind of give me the vibe of 40+yr writers trying to write a character in her 20s with slightly dated memes. From the publication date this was a lockdown project, so given that, it seems logical that someone kidnapped and held comfortably captive for a couple of months would get to play a lot of Animal Crossing.
I was really happy to finally fill my r/Fantasy Bingo square for Druids! As far as an actual druid story is concerned, this is that basically in name only. {One does not simply..} re-wild the area near their home by contracting landscape gardeners to *handwave* "Lush" the back yard. You're druids. Plant a fekking tree willya?! There is a lot less "Guardians of Nature, keeping the balance" and a lot more "guardians of our cool family treasures; woo! I get an animal companion and cat-like reflexes!". Every spell she masters gets to be tattooed on her skin as a.. spell-macro or something? It's more a device to get free heals and teleports than something that feels like a solemn duty.. more adventure campaign than journey of growth. There are even loot drops from boss-fights.
An interesting argument is made for Urban Druiding.. though the whole spiel for Toronto being a melting-pot of cultures and magics from many places left me feeling cold and awkward. Yes yes.. all are welcome, but you failed to even mention any of the indigenous peoples of that area in your little list. For all this talk of diversity you have, a (token?) hot Black man as a love interest, a gay brother, and a fae drag-queen tattoo artist whose otherness dazzles and impresses you. Again, this feels like older writers trying to create younger characters.
This is popcorn. It's silly and fun, so long as you equip your +4 Suspenders of Disbelief.
Before I describe the story I need to acknowledge the narrator, who nearly incited me to rage-quit the whole thing by not being able to pronounce common Irish names. The Rose of Tralee is not Traily.. (got to admit I was confused when the authors referred to a symbol with 4 roses on it - that symbol is supposed to have 3 roses, but maybe they were feeling lucky). Fionn mac Cumhaill... his name is not Feeyon!! €#@!* but then what can I expect from someone who doesn't seem to be able to tell the difference between a Scots or Irish accent. *Deep breath* ok.. I'm good
This is a story that's just supposed to be good fun. It starts out semi-mystical but devolves into a quest chain that ends up with cute young men, and geeky pop-culture references to Baby Yoda and Baby Groot. The cute references to Star Trek, Star Wars and Pokémon kind of give me the vibe of 40+yr writers trying to write a character in her 20s with slightly dated memes. From the publication date this was a lockdown project, so given that, it seems logical that someone kidnapped and held comfortably captive for a couple of months would get to play a lot of Animal Crossing.
I was really happy to finally fill my r/Fantasy Bingo square for Druids! As far as an actual druid story is concerned, this is that basically in name only. {One does not simply..} re-wild the area near their home by contracting landscape gardeners to *handwave* "Lush" the back yard. You're druids. Plant a fekking tree willya?! There is a lot less "Guardians of Nature, keeping the balance" and a lot more "guardians of our cool family treasures; woo! I get an animal companion and cat-like reflexes!". Every spell she masters gets to be tattooed on her skin as a.. spell-macro or something? It's more a device to get free heals and teleports than something that feels like a solemn duty.. more adventure campaign than journey of growth. There are even loot drops from boss-fights.
An interesting argument is made for Urban Druiding.. though the whole spiel for Toronto being a melting-pot of cultures and magics from many places left me feeling cold and awkward. Yes yes.. all are welcome, but you failed to even mention any of the indigenous peoples of that area in your little list. For all this talk of diversity you have, a (token?) hot Black man as a love interest, a gay brother, and a fae drag-queen tattoo artist whose otherness dazzles and impresses you. Again, this feels like older writers trying to create younger characters.
This is popcorn. It's silly and fun, so long as you equip your +4 Suspenders of Disbelief.
August 23, 2023
I was going to give this book 2 stars but I skimmed the last twenty pages because I was bored and my care factor plummeted even lower for this read - so one star it is.
Initially I liked Fiona, who was Fiesty. That is with a capital F, because thanks to years of rough housing with her five older brothers she is a scrappy, never say die, never say quit scrapper. Which as I said, at first I liked, but this chick has no off button and doesn't seem to have any layers, or life outside her family.
No one else had a problem with her keeping house, cooking and cleaning for her Dad and 5 brothers since she was like 11 when her mom died? And whilst all the males join the police force she isn't allowed to since she knows it would kill her Dad if anything happened to her????? WTF? So it's ok for the sons, but not the daughter?
And i get this lot are Irish - the authors lay that on so thick I felt suffocated by the slang, banter and constant Irish idioms. But they were born in Toronto. Her father left Ireland like 30 years ago. And yet we are battered and smothered in the Irish lingo.
Then we shift to Ireland, which was fine. You're a Druid, which Fiona kind of took a little too well - but at least we didn't get bogged down in it.
Just some general (major issues) I had with the plot:
- Everyone is so one dimensional. They appear to have one setting and no other layers.
- How many times does Fiona get attacked? Five? Seven? More? It felt like a hundred times. And at least twice it was by supposed good guys.
- How many times does Fiona get kidnapped? At least a thousand, or that's what it felt like.
- How many times does she escape without the reader being privy to the action other than being told there is a plan - then suddenly she is safe and home.??? At least three times.
- There were major gaps in the telling of this story. And then there were major info dumps about Ireland, nature, magic, fantasy creatures, historical magic people - that just were not needed, and could have been trickled to the reader in later reads.
- Liam the childhood friend has a hissy fit thinking she likes Sloan - and Fiona has a good long look at herself to see if she was acting like a slapper... and then apologies to Liam for allowing to think that ??? When there isn't a glimmer of sexual tension b/w Fi and Sloan. Seemed kind of left field. And worse, early in the book Fi had helped Liam out so he could sneak off to shag some random woman.
The last chapter came out of nowhere - was convoluted, was boring, and Fiona's reactions seemed unrealistic - suddenly she is zen druid. Unbelievable and stupid ending that had me skimming. I didn't care.
Initially I liked Fiona, who was Fiesty. That is with a capital F, because thanks to years of rough housing with her five older brothers she is a scrappy, never say die, never say quit scrapper. Which as I said, at first I liked, but this chick has no off button and doesn't seem to have any layers, or life outside her family.
No one else had a problem with her keeping house, cooking and cleaning for her Dad and 5 brothers since she was like 11 when her mom died? And whilst all the males join the police force she isn't allowed to since she knows it would kill her Dad if anything happened to her????? WTF? So it's ok for the sons, but not the daughter?
And i get this lot are Irish - the authors lay that on so thick I felt suffocated by the slang, banter and constant Irish idioms. But they were born in Toronto. Her father left Ireland like 30 years ago. And yet we are battered and smothered in the Irish lingo.
Then we shift to Ireland, which was fine. You're a Druid, which Fiona kind of took a little too well - but at least we didn't get bogged down in it.
Just some general (major issues) I had with the plot:
- Everyone is so one dimensional. They appear to have one setting and no other layers.
- How many times does Fiona get attacked? Five? Seven? More? It felt like a hundred times. And at least twice it was by supposed good guys.
- How many times does Fiona get kidnapped? At least a thousand, or that's what it felt like.
- How many times does she escape without the reader being privy to the action other than being told there is a plan - then suddenly she is safe and home.??? At least three times.
- There were major gaps in the telling of this story. And then there were major info dumps about Ireland, nature, magic, fantasy creatures, historical magic people - that just were not needed, and could have been trickled to the reader in later reads.
- Liam the childhood friend has a hissy fit thinking she likes Sloan - and Fiona has a good long look at herself to see if she was acting like a slapper... and then apologies to Liam for allowing to think that ??? When there isn't a glimmer of sexual tension b/w Fi and Sloan. Seemed kind of left field. And worse, early in the book Fi had helped Liam out so he could sneak off to shag some random woman.
The last chapter came out of nowhere - was convoluted, was boring, and Fiona's reactions seemed unrealistic - suddenly she is zen druid. Unbelievable and stupid ending that had me skimming. I didn't care.
January 21, 2024
Inhaltsangabe:
In dem ersten Band der Chroniken der urbanen Druidin von Auburn Tempest und Michael Anderle, geht es um Fiona. Sie lebt mit ihren fünf Brüdern und ihm Vater in Toronto in Canada. Fiona kümmert sich seit dem Tod um ihre Familie, sie kauft ein, macht den Haushalt und arbeitet abends in einer Bar. Alle ihre Brüder arbeiten genau so wie Fionas Vater bei der Polizei. Nach der Abschlussfeier ihres Bruders welche in einer Bar statt findet, wird Fiona von einem Unbekannten Fremden angegriffen.
Darauf hin erscheint auf ihrem Rücken ein Tattoo. Als sie ihren Vater auf das Tattoo anspricht, will dieser nicht drüber reden.
Fiona erfährt durch einem Brief von ihrem Großvater von einem magisches Erbe, welches auf sie in Irland wartet.
Fiona, reist nach Irland um mehr über ihren Großvater und das Magische Erbe zu erfahren….
Persönliche Meinung:
Eine etwas andere Fantasiewelt von der ich bisher wenig gelesen habe. Es geht um ein druidischen Erbe, Naturkräfte und Magische Fähigkeiten. In der Geschichte spielen, Schutzgeister, Magie und das Vertrauen in die eigenen Fähigkeiten eine wichtige Rolle.
Als Hauptprotagonistin lernt Fiona einiges in dem ersten Band.
Sie bereut Entscheidungen,lernt das ihr Handeln konsequent hat und das sie nicht jedem vertrauen kann.
Sie wirkt stark, was zum Teil auch an ihrem Selbstbewusstsein und ihrer Familie liegt, den Umgang mit ihren älteren Brüdern. Doch auch ihre verletzliche Seite zeigt Fiona und das ihr nicht immer alles einfach fällt und das sie auch Fehler macht. Da durch wird sie finde ich sehr realistisch dargestellt.
Neben Fiona gibt es unterschiedliche Charaktere die ihr helfen das Magische Erbe zu verstehen und zum Teil umzusetzen.
Man merkt als Leser das Familie, vertrauen in die Familie und die Unterstützung der Familie in dem Buch eine zentrale Rolle spielt.Den egal was ist die Charaktere wie Fiona, die fünf Brüder, die Großeltern oder auch der Vater unterstützen einander egal was ist und stehen hinter einem. Das fand ich sehr schön beschrieben.
Es kommen zum Teil zu kämpferischen Auseinandersetzungen im ersten Band weswegen ich das Buch erst ab 15 Jahre empfehlen würde.
Fazit:
Alles im allen hat mir der erste Band der Chroniken urbanen Druidin Reihe gut gefallen, eine etwas andere Fantasiewelt und eine stark Hauptprotagonistin.
Das Buch bekommt von mir vier Sterne.
In dem ersten Band der Chroniken der urbanen Druidin von Auburn Tempest und Michael Anderle, geht es um Fiona. Sie lebt mit ihren fünf Brüdern und ihm Vater in Toronto in Canada. Fiona kümmert sich seit dem Tod um ihre Familie, sie kauft ein, macht den Haushalt und arbeitet abends in einer Bar. Alle ihre Brüder arbeiten genau so wie Fionas Vater bei der Polizei. Nach der Abschlussfeier ihres Bruders welche in einer Bar statt findet, wird Fiona von einem Unbekannten Fremden angegriffen.
Darauf hin erscheint auf ihrem Rücken ein Tattoo. Als sie ihren Vater auf das Tattoo anspricht, will dieser nicht drüber reden.
Fiona erfährt durch einem Brief von ihrem Großvater von einem magisches Erbe, welches auf sie in Irland wartet.
Fiona, reist nach Irland um mehr über ihren Großvater und das Magische Erbe zu erfahren….
Persönliche Meinung:
Eine etwas andere Fantasiewelt von der ich bisher wenig gelesen habe. Es geht um ein druidischen Erbe, Naturkräfte und Magische Fähigkeiten. In der Geschichte spielen, Schutzgeister, Magie und das Vertrauen in die eigenen Fähigkeiten eine wichtige Rolle.
Als Hauptprotagonistin lernt Fiona einiges in dem ersten Band.
Sie bereut Entscheidungen,lernt das ihr Handeln konsequent hat und das sie nicht jedem vertrauen kann.
Sie wirkt stark, was zum Teil auch an ihrem Selbstbewusstsein und ihrer Familie liegt, den Umgang mit ihren älteren Brüdern. Doch auch ihre verletzliche Seite zeigt Fiona und das ihr nicht immer alles einfach fällt und das sie auch Fehler macht. Da durch wird sie finde ich sehr realistisch dargestellt.
Neben Fiona gibt es unterschiedliche Charaktere die ihr helfen das Magische Erbe zu verstehen und zum Teil umzusetzen.
Man merkt als Leser das Familie, vertrauen in die Familie und die Unterstützung der Familie in dem Buch eine zentrale Rolle spielt.Den egal was ist die Charaktere wie Fiona, die fünf Brüder, die Großeltern oder auch der Vater unterstützen einander egal was ist und stehen hinter einem. Das fand ich sehr schön beschrieben.
Es kommen zum Teil zu kämpferischen Auseinandersetzungen im ersten Band weswegen ich das Buch erst ab 15 Jahre empfehlen würde.
Fazit:
Alles im allen hat mir der erste Band der Chroniken urbanen Druidin Reihe gut gefallen, eine etwas andere Fantasiewelt und eine stark Hauptprotagonistin.
Das Buch bekommt von mir vier Sterne.
July 17, 2024
This book was a lovely surprise! I was in a major reading slump (nothing caught my fancy, books didn't speak to me, and so on), but this book totally pulled me out.
The cover is gorgeous, and I loved learning about the different elements depicted. The world-building is really cool, but it still holds a lot of mysteries waiting to be discovered in the next installment. It's basically our world but with supernaturals like druids, fae, and even Baba Yaga!
We still don't know much about the druid world or the other druid families, but I'm sure we'll learn more in the next book.
The characters are amazing! Fiona, our heroine, finds out she's a druid with a big destiny. But her dad doesn't want her involved, plus there's danger everywhere. She's got a huge family, which gives an incredible dynamic and banter throughout the book. Oh, and they're Irish, so expect plenty of drinking, partying, and shenanigans (pun intended, iykyk)!
I'm still not sure about the romance. It's not obvious at first, but in the end, I was a tad worried about a love triangle because I really, really hate those, and that would be a reason for me not to read the following books! Thankfully, one of the authors confirmed it's not happening (for now at least) as Fiona doesn't want a relationship at the moment but rather wants to focus on being all druidy. And the men are okay(ish) about that and back off (thank god for that).
The characters feel real and vibrant, and reading about and discovering more about them is so much fun. I especially love Bear! He's so awesome! :D
The pacing and flow were good. A lot happens, but it's pretty smooth. It eases you into the story and then sweeps you off your feet. Good times ahead!
I already have the whole series (as it was significantly discounted earlier this year), so I'll continue the adventure. Maybe not right away, but I'm definitely going to read the next one!
The cover is gorgeous, and I loved learning about the different elements depicted. The world-building is really cool, but it still holds a lot of mysteries waiting to be discovered in the next installment. It's basically our world but with supernaturals like druids, fae, and even Baba Yaga!
We still don't know much about the druid world or the other druid families, but I'm sure we'll learn more in the next book.
The characters are amazing! Fiona, our heroine, finds out she's a druid with a big destiny. But her dad doesn't want her involved, plus there's danger everywhere. She's got a huge family, which gives an incredible dynamic and banter throughout the book. Oh, and they're Irish, so expect plenty of drinking, partying, and shenanigans (pun intended, iykyk)!
I'm still not sure about the romance. It's not obvious at first, but in the end, I was a tad worried about a love triangle because I really, really hate those, and that would be a reason for me not to read the following books! Thankfully, one of the authors confirmed it's not happening (for now at least) as Fiona doesn't want a relationship at the moment but rather wants to focus on being all druidy. And the men are okay(ish) about that and back off (thank god for that).
The characters feel real and vibrant, and reading about and discovering more about them is so much fun. I especially love Bear! He's so awesome! :D
The pacing and flow were good. A lot happens, but it's pretty smooth. It eases you into the story and then sweeps you off your feet. Good times ahead!
I already have the whole series (as it was significantly discounted earlier this year), so I'll continue the adventure. Maybe not right away, but I'm definitely going to read the next one!
December 4, 2020
Incredible NEW Series! Definitely worth a read.
I absolutely love this new series. It is filled with magic, bravery, family, and love. Fiona is fantastic and wonderfully strong-willed and stubborn. The world building is brilliant and flows without a hitch. There is a bit of hinting at love interest type stuff, but it is wonderfully subtle, without the whole "just get together already!" feeling that works find in other series, but is refreshingly in the background in this one. A few characters in particular could get together, and that would be cool, but it would also be totally find if they don't. That's a new experience for me, and I like it. The only thing I can't seem to get straight is my inner voice pronouncing Fiona's nickname, Fi. My brain insists it is said (Fie) rather than (Fee). I know it isn't Fo or Fum, she's not that type of magical creature. ;) Anyway... Logic dictates Fi, short for Fiona, would be pronounced 'Fee', as that IS actually the first syllable of her name, but my stubborn brain took until nearly the end of the second book to start getting it right most of the time, lol. That's on me, though... The series so far (about to begin book three) is absolutely top notch for fans of fantasy and/or all things LMBPN. I HIGHLY recommend it!
And to Auburn Tempest (nice pen name, btw) and Michael Anderle, you two should seriously reconsider the whole six books plan. More, more, more!
To everyone at LMBPN, as always, my undying thanks for making everything available on Kindle Unlimited. I am a disabled ex teacher with zero income, and your worlds allow me days upon days of being able to let my mind live in another universe, rather than just sitting around in pain all day. Now back to my new favorite Druid family in the third book... Keep on keeping on, and ALL of the blessings upon you all!
I absolutely love this new series. It is filled with magic, bravery, family, and love. Fiona is fantastic and wonderfully strong-willed and stubborn. The world building is brilliant and flows without a hitch. There is a bit of hinting at love interest type stuff, but it is wonderfully subtle, without the whole "just get together already!" feeling that works find in other series, but is refreshingly in the background in this one. A few characters in particular could get together, and that would be cool, but it would also be totally find if they don't. That's a new experience for me, and I like it. The only thing I can't seem to get straight is my inner voice pronouncing Fiona's nickname, Fi. My brain insists it is said (Fie) rather than (Fee). I know it isn't Fo or Fum, she's not that type of magical creature. ;) Anyway... Logic dictates Fi, short for Fiona, would be pronounced 'Fee', as that IS actually the first syllable of her name, but my stubborn brain took until nearly the end of the second book to start getting it right most of the time, lol. That's on me, though... The series so far (about to begin book three) is absolutely top notch for fans of fantasy and/or all things LMBPN. I HIGHLY recommend it!
And to Auburn Tempest (nice pen name, btw) and Michael Anderle, you two should seriously reconsider the whole six books plan. More, more, more!
To everyone at LMBPN, as always, my undying thanks for making everything available on Kindle Unlimited. I am a disabled ex teacher with zero income, and your worlds allow me days upon days of being able to let my mind live in another universe, rather than just sitting around in pain all day. Now back to my new favorite Druid family in the third book... Keep on keeping on, and ALL of the blessings upon you all!
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