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La fille roi du pays maudit
Amy and Liam Bell have been packed off to stay at Gran's house in the wilds of Connemara for the summer. Out for a walk on the first morning of their holiday, they trace the flight of a hawk to a nearby waterfall – only to watch the bird disappear through it. Intrigued, the children follow and soon realise they've discovered the entrance to Tír na nÓg, the legendary land of eternal youth.
But they've been tricked. Almost immediately Liam is captured by a troop of headless horsemen who take him to Tarlock, the ruling sorcerer of Tír na nÓg, who is seeking the bones of a human child for a sinister new spell.
But they've been tricked. Almost immediately Liam is captured by a troop of headless horsemen who take him to Tarlock, the ruling sorcerer of Tír na nÓg, who is seeking the bones of a human child for a sinister new spell.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2022
25 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Doyle
26 books2,747 followersCatherine Doyle grew up in the West of Ireland. She holds a first-class BA in Psychology and a first-class MA in Publishing. She is the author of the Young Adult Blood for Blood trilogy (Vendetta, Inferno and Mafiosa), which is often described as Romeo and Juliet meets the Godfather. It was inspired by her love of modern cinema. Her debut Middle Grade novel, The Storm Keeper's Island (Bloomsbury, 2018), is an adventure story about family, bravery and self-discovery. It is set on the magical island of Arranmore, where her grandparents grew up, and is inspired by her ancestors' real life daring sea rescues.
Aside from more conventional interests in movies, running and travelling, Catherine also enjoys writing about herself in the third-person.
Aside from more conventional interests in movies, running and travelling, Catherine also enjoys writing about herself in the third-person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
March 23, 2023
✰ 4 stars ✰
"If you ask me, I think there’s a drop of truth in every story … Or sometimes an entire waterfall of truth."
In The Lost Girl King Catherine Doyle swept me away on a delightful adventurous journey into the legend of Tír na nÓg, the land of the young, a place of hope. and of new life. It's the magical lost kingdom that lies hidden, just beyond the veil of the human realm. It's an engaging and enchanting fast-paced tale of two siblings, Amy and Liam, who while visiting their Gran, accidentally stumble over into this long lost world, only to find themselves caught up in the mysteries and darkness that befall this once-enchanting beautiful kingdom. And that they may play a bigger part in restoring it to its former glory in more ways than they could ever realize.
It's a beautiful, moving, and at times, delightfully humorous story of sibling bonds, friendship, bravery, adventure, family, and most of all - heart! All the perfect ingredients that made it such a wonderful Middle-Grade read - I really enjoyed reading every minute of it! Our two main characters, Amy and Liam, 'the interlopers from beyond the veil' were an incredible duo of siblings - their bond was so heartfelt, their banter was witty, the care they expressed for each other - I never doubted that they were brother and sister. 💓💓
"‘Oh, come on, Liam. Where’s your sense of adventure?’
‘It’s buried under my crippling fear of danger!’"
Amy was such a fun heroine - her spunk and courageous loyalty even in the face of danger was so admirable and I loved her sense of humor, too! Once she and Liam were separated, she did everything in her power to find her way back to him - courageous and fiercely protective, I was so very fond of her. The bond she shared with Jonah, a young local boy who's forever trapped to stay young, was both endearing and heart-breaking. That in such a short time, she could grow so fond of him and hope to help him break the spell that prevented him from growing up.
"Jonah shrugged, but there was a sadness in his eyes. It was the shadow of a life permanently set to pause, the whisper of a future that was always just out of reach."
Their dynamic was definitely on of the highlights of my read and I let out a couple of chuckles at their antics. 😊 Liam also shined in his own special way - even if he was more withdrawn and reserved than his younger sister, when it was time to face his fears and not succumb to the darkness, his intelligence and quiet determination made him an extremely likable character for me, as well. ❤️❤️
The world-building was also exquisite - there was a faint resemblance to the Lord of the Rings characters, but Catherine Doyle perfectly painted such a captivating image of the beauty that once shined on Tír na nÓg and its inhabitants - and how the Dark King, Tarlock, stole it all and reduced it to the ravages and ruins that it was, that I couldn't help but be drawn into its allure. I loved the entire mix of colorful characters in the fantasy world she brought forth from her imagination.
The pacing was great - the story was flowing - every detail mentioned played a vital part to the plot, which is something I always appreciate. I loved all the surprises, the little reveals, the comedic timing balanced very well with the seriousness of certain points. It was honestly such a satisfying and rewarding experience - especially since I have read Ms.Doyle's first book. And her growth as a storyteller is so very apparent in this, and I for one, am one happy reader. 🥰🥰
Oh, and lest I forget, some of Amy's jokes that I thought worth sharing!
- ‘What sits at the bottom of the sea and twitches?’
‘A nervous wreck,’ said Amy sheepishly.
- ‘What did one plate say to the other?’ said Amy, without missing a beat.
‘Dinner is on me!’
"If you ask me, I think there’s a drop of truth in every story … Or sometimes an entire waterfall of truth."
In The Lost Girl King Catherine Doyle swept me away on a delightful adventurous journey into the legend of Tír na nÓg, the land of the young, a place of hope. and of new life. It's the magical lost kingdom that lies hidden, just beyond the veil of the human realm. It's an engaging and enchanting fast-paced tale of two siblings, Amy and Liam, who while visiting their Gran, accidentally stumble over into this long lost world, only to find themselves caught up in the mysteries and darkness that befall this once-enchanting beautiful kingdom. And that they may play a bigger part in restoring it to its former glory in more ways than they could ever realize.
It's a beautiful, moving, and at times, delightfully humorous story of sibling bonds, friendship, bravery, adventure, family, and most of all - heart! All the perfect ingredients that made it such a wonderful Middle-Grade read - I really enjoyed reading every minute of it! Our two main characters, Amy and Liam, 'the interlopers from beyond the veil' were an incredible duo of siblings - their bond was so heartfelt, their banter was witty, the care they expressed for each other - I never doubted that they were brother and sister. 💓💓
"‘Oh, come on, Liam. Where’s your sense of adventure?’
‘It’s buried under my crippling fear of danger!’"
Amy was such a fun heroine - her spunk and courageous loyalty even in the face of danger was so admirable and I loved her sense of humor, too! Once she and Liam were separated, she did everything in her power to find her way back to him - courageous and fiercely protective, I was so very fond of her. The bond she shared with Jonah, a young local boy who's forever trapped to stay young, was both endearing and heart-breaking. That in such a short time, she could grow so fond of him and hope to help him break the spell that prevented him from growing up.
"Jonah shrugged, but there was a sadness in his eyes. It was the shadow of a life permanently set to pause, the whisper of a future that was always just out of reach."
Their dynamic was definitely on of the highlights of my read and I let out a couple of chuckles at their antics. 😊 Liam also shined in his own special way - even if he was more withdrawn and reserved than his younger sister, when it was time to face his fears and not succumb to the darkness, his intelligence and quiet determination made him an extremely likable character for me, as well. ❤️❤️
The world-building was also exquisite - there was a faint resemblance to the Lord of the Rings characters, but Catherine Doyle perfectly painted such a captivating image of the beauty that once shined on Tír na nÓg and its inhabitants - and how the Dark King, Tarlock, stole it all and reduced it to the ravages and ruins that it was, that I couldn't help but be drawn into its allure. I loved the entire mix of colorful characters in the fantasy world she brought forth from her imagination.
The pacing was great - the story was flowing - every detail mentioned played a vital part to the plot, which is something I always appreciate. I loved all the surprises, the little reveals, the comedic timing balanced very well with the seriousness of certain points. It was honestly such a satisfying and rewarding experience - especially since I have read Ms.Doyle's first book. And her growth as a storyteller is so very apparent in this, and I for one, am one happy reader. 🥰🥰
Oh, and lest I forget, some of Amy's jokes that I thought worth sharing!
- ‘What sits at the bottom of the sea and twitches?’
‘A nervous wreck,’ said Amy sheepishly.
- ‘What did one plate say to the other?’ said Amy, without missing a beat.
‘Dinner is on me!’
August 21, 2022
What a book!!! Read this in two sittings and Catherine Doyle has surpassed herself with this book. Her writing was absolutely beautiful and this book oozed Irish folklore. It was absolutely fantastic. For me being an adult reading it the penny dropped quickly for me but I read this books from the perspective of its intended audience and it was fabulous.
We follow Amy and Liam and they are having to stay with their Gran whilst their Mum goes on holiday to Greece with the new boyfriend. Whilst there the weather is raining or drooling as the Gran put it so Amy decided it was time to go out and look for an adventure. Amy is the younger of the children and is more boisterous than her older brother Liam.
Whilst out they see and follow a stunning white bird and so from here the adventure begins.
I won’t say what happens from here in as I refuse to spoil such a cracking book. The world Catherine has made is amazing and her beautiful use of words it is easy to visualise this place beyond the veil so to speak.
The characters throughout the book are superbly written and as the story progresses the found family trope strengthens and grows; it is beautiful.
In part of this world there are sleepy hollow type vibes with a band of a certain character and the atmospheric changes throughout the book were written in such a way again it was easy to visualise and gave you the creep factor.
The wrap up of this standalone was also nothing more than glorious as you dipped in and out of heart racing moments and still a strengthening of the found family trope. It was just bloody marvellous and I think this book for its intended audience will be an absolute must buy and will be enjoyed just as much by them as it was by this child in an adults body.
Superb read that I hope to see as book of the month and best seller in many book shops as it is so well deserved. Highly highly recommend this book from the wonderful Catherine Doyle. Huge thanks to Jade at Bloomsbury for sending this amazing book my way to review. Seriously bloody great book
We follow Amy and Liam and they are having to stay with their Gran whilst their Mum goes on holiday to Greece with the new boyfriend. Whilst there the weather is raining or drooling as the Gran put it so Amy decided it was time to go out and look for an adventure. Amy is the younger of the children and is more boisterous than her older brother Liam.
Whilst out they see and follow a stunning white bird and so from here the adventure begins.
I won’t say what happens from here in as I refuse to spoil such a cracking book. The world Catherine has made is amazing and her beautiful use of words it is easy to visualise this place beyond the veil so to speak.
The characters throughout the book are superbly written and as the story progresses the found family trope strengthens and grows; it is beautiful.
In part of this world there are sleepy hollow type vibes with a band of a certain character and the atmospheric changes throughout the book were written in such a way again it was easy to visualise and gave you the creep factor.
The wrap up of this standalone was also nothing more than glorious as you dipped in and out of heart racing moments and still a strengthening of the found family trope. It was just bloody marvellous and I think this book for its intended audience will be an absolute must buy and will be enjoyed just as much by them as it was by this child in an adults body.
Superb read that I hope to see as book of the month and best seller in many book shops as it is so well deserved. Highly highly recommend this book from the wonderful Catherine Doyle. Huge thanks to Jade at Bloomsbury for sending this amazing book my way to review. Seriously bloody great book
June 10, 2025
Според мен това е едно много увлекателно четиво за младите читатели. Действието е динамично, светът е много магичен и лесно разбираем. Пренасяме се в вълшебен свят със зъл магьосник оковал слънцето, за да спре времето и безглави конници, които са негови слуги. Младо момиче, което се опитва да спаси брат си от жестока участ, но същевременно открива колко страдат всички под тиранията на магьосника и решава, че трябва да им помогне. Вълнуващо, напрегнато приключение с щастлив край.
Ето такива книги умеят да запалят любовта към четенето у всяко дете.
Ето такива книги умеят да запалят любовта към четенето у всяко дете.
August 7, 2022
There has been a plethora of books recently featuring Irish mythology, remixed and updated to make fascinating new stories. This is one of the best. Using Tir na nÓg and various parts of Irish mythology, it spins a fascinating story of adventure and courage.
Both kids are great characters, but we spend longer with Amy so I think readers will bond with her a bit more. She's a fantastic character to bond with, brave even though she's scared, smart and willing to give people the benefit of the doubt. Watching her pull together a rebel group from the scattered peoples of Tir na nÓg was great fun, and very satisfying.
I really hope there are more stories in the pipeline - these are great characters and I don't want to leave them behind. Just fantastic.
Both kids are great characters, but we spend longer with Amy so I think readers will bond with her a bit more. She's a fantastic character to bond with, brave even though she's scared, smart and willing to give people the benefit of the doubt. Watching her pull together a rebel group from the scattered peoples of Tir na nÓg was great fun, and very satisfying.
I really hope there are more stories in the pipeline - these are great characters and I don't want to leave them behind. Just fantastic.
August 14, 2022
I received an eARC from the publishers through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
THE LOST GIRL KING is a tale of two siblings determined to protect each other in a magical realm where the evil mage wants to use them to secure his immortality.
Gutsy Amy is the main protagonist of the book, taking up most of the page time. She is adventuring with heroes and rallying the kingdom to work together to save her brother, a very classic fantasy plot line that the book follows with gusto. She pretty much talks her way through everything - and then getting saved from battles when she can't talk her way out of things, because she hasn't quite learned how to think before talking! She's constantly running into danger even if the adults trying to stop her have a good point (and they have their work cut out trying to keep an eye on her!) It ends up working out in her favour though, through sheer stubbornness more than anything!
Liam, by contrast, spends most of the book in the castle, a prisoner. He uncovers the Mage's plans, which involved a curse on the sun to stop him aging. He also meets the eponymous girl king, who is the anchor to the curse and the key to it all...
The book has such imaginative world, which draws on Irish mythology around Tír na nÓg. The magical realm has been corrupted by the curse on the sun so is rotting. However, at the same time, it's also beautiful and full of potential that helps you understand why it needs to be saved.
The book is a standalone that all wraps up nicely. It would be nice to have another story in this world but with the villain defeated and things restored, I'm not sure what that would be. Still, I look forward to whatever Catherine Doyle writes next.
THE LOST GIRL KING is a tale of two siblings determined to protect each other in a magical realm where the evil mage wants to use them to secure his immortality.
Gutsy Amy is the main protagonist of the book, taking up most of the page time. She is adventuring with heroes and rallying the kingdom to work together to save her brother, a very classic fantasy plot line that the book follows with gusto. She pretty much talks her way through everything - and then getting saved from battles when she can't talk her way out of things, because she hasn't quite learned how to think before talking! She's constantly running into danger even if the adults trying to stop her have a good point (and they have their work cut out trying to keep an eye on her!) It ends up working out in her favour though, through sheer stubbornness more than anything!
Liam, by contrast, spends most of the book in the castle, a prisoner. He uncovers the Mage's plans, which involved a curse on the sun to stop him aging. He also meets the eponymous girl king, who is the anchor to the curse and the key to it all...
The book has such imaginative world, which draws on Irish mythology around Tír na nÓg. The magical realm has been corrupted by the curse on the sun so is rotting. However, at the same time, it's also beautiful and full of potential that helps you understand why it needs to be saved.
The book is a standalone that all wraps up nicely. It would be nice to have another story in this world but with the villain defeated and things restored, I'm not sure what that would be. Still, I look forward to whatever Catherine Doyle writes next.
September 4, 2022
Steeped in Celtic mythology, this epic sibling adventure will capture the heart and imaginations of readers of all ages.
With subtle Peter Pan vibes and brimming with Catherine Doyle's signature humour, addictive writing style, vivid world building and spunky characters, The Lost Girl King is an action packed, classic adventure with a strong emphasis on sibling loyalty and the reminder never to underestimate the power inside young girls.
With subtle Peter Pan vibes and brimming with Catherine Doyle's signature humour, addictive writing style, vivid world building and spunky characters, The Lost Girl King is an action packed, classic adventure with a strong emphasis on sibling loyalty and the reminder never to underestimate the power inside young girls.
August 18, 2022
The Lost Girl King is a cleverly crafted Middle Grade fantasy adventure based on Irish mythology. Siblings Amy and Liam find themselves tricked into the land of Tír na nÓg, where an evil Sorcerer wants to use them to obtain immortality.
The plot is perfectly placed and engaging, and the excitement is non stop. I think this is a book that any fantasy lover will enjoy!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The plot is perfectly placed and engaging, and the excitement is non stop. I think this is a book that any fantasy lover will enjoy!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
Love love loved this, Catherine Doyle has a style of writing that hooks you in and then, blink, it's been three hours. Cannot express how good this book was, highly recommend it. Give it a go! You will not regret it
December 16, 2022
An amazing and powerful little book that is perfect for young readers, bringing them into a creative and completely brilliantly written adventure they will easily read every night before bed until they get to the very last page and ask for another from this talented author.
August 31, 2022
Firstly I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC 🥰😘
The lost Girl King is the story of Amy and Liam Bell. The siblings are on holiday in Connemara visiting their grandmother Violet but go on more on of an adventure than they bargained for. On their first outing they find the entrance for to Tír na nÓg behind a waterfall and when Liam gets kidnapped Amy rallies and finds lots of friends to go and rescue him but with Turlock and headless horseman not far behind them can they get to Liam and can they save Tír na nÓg at the same time?
The storyline was brilliant, it was simple yet hard branches that made it complex and kept me completely entertained throughout. I loved Amy and Liam, they were both strong willed, brave and everything a child would want a hero to be whilst reading a fantasy novel. The secondary characters were all brilliant as well!! They were all very well thought out. In particular Jonah and the Selkies were, to me, particularly really, really well written. The Selkies were kind of morally grey which I love but Amy still knew they would come which is great for younger readers to read. And Jonah is just an amazing best friend and so positive for young children to read. I know that if my nephew was reading this book he would really love the character.
The Lost Girl King is so brilliantly written!! 😍🥰 I thoroughly enjoyed it as a 33-year-old so I know someone younger would be in their element. It’s the perfect introduction to fae fantasy - it’s got so many types intertwined into the story that you get in YA and NA high fantasy so for me it felt really familiar 🥰🥰
I would definitely recommend this book to everyone. Not just middle grade readers but everyone it’s a really really enjoyable read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for sure
The lost Girl King is the story of Amy and Liam Bell. The siblings are on holiday in Connemara visiting their grandmother Violet but go on more on of an adventure than they bargained for. On their first outing they find the entrance for to Tír na nÓg behind a waterfall and when Liam gets kidnapped Amy rallies and finds lots of friends to go and rescue him but with Turlock and headless horseman not far behind them can they get to Liam and can they save Tír na nÓg at the same time?
The storyline was brilliant, it was simple yet hard branches that made it complex and kept me completely entertained throughout. I loved Amy and Liam, they were both strong willed, brave and everything a child would want a hero to be whilst reading a fantasy novel. The secondary characters were all brilliant as well!! They were all very well thought out. In particular Jonah and the Selkies were, to me, particularly really, really well written. The Selkies were kind of morally grey which I love but Amy still knew they would come which is great for younger readers to read. And Jonah is just an amazing best friend and so positive for young children to read. I know that if my nephew was reading this book he would really love the character.
The Lost Girl King is so brilliantly written!! 😍🥰 I thoroughly enjoyed it as a 33-year-old so I know someone younger would be in their element. It’s the perfect introduction to fae fantasy - it’s got so many types intertwined into the story that you get in YA and NA high fantasy so for me it felt really familiar 🥰🥰
I would definitely recommend this book to everyone. Not just middle grade readers but everyone it’s a really really enjoyable read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for sure
August 26, 2022
what a fun and quick read! what started as a little adventure turned out to be a mission to save a rotten land. the narrative was action packed, fast paced, and engaging. Amy's bravery and recklessness were admirable. Liam's character development was impressive, how he overcame his fear in order to save everything. this book implied how togetherness is the key to be something greater. overall its fun and heartwarming.
August 25, 2022
Even if is marketed as middle grade this is one of those story that can be appreciated by people of any age.
The author did an excellent job in developing her version of Tír na nÓg and deliver a gripping and well paced story.
I loved the style of writing and the storytelling, the characters are fleshed out.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
The author did an excellent job in developing her version of Tír na nÓg and deliver a gripping and well paced story.
I loved the style of writing and the storytelling, the characters are fleshed out.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
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August 27, 2022Another absolute delight from Catherine Doyle, who is solidfying herself as one of my favourite Irish children's writers. This book has everything you want - a spunky heroine, sibling loyalty, myths and legends coming to life, intricate worldbuilding, a lot of heart and an equal lot of humour and adventure. Doyle proves that no young girl should ever be underestimate, for she could always be the hero you never saw coming because of your lack of vision. A treat for readers of any age.
May 17, 2022
For fans of legends and myth everywhere! With tasty hints of JRR Tolkein and CS Lewis, this fabulous tale is sure to delight!
Catherine Doyle has again brought us the touch of Irish magical charm and compelling MG adventure that was so very strong in her Storm Keeper's Trilogy!
When siblings Amy and Liam are packed off to their grand house in Connemara, not far from the coast, the holiday seems to hold little in the way of excitement for them. Especially as it is raining.
As dawn breaks on the first morning of arriving, Amy drags Lliam off to explore. Possibly, hopefully, to find the mythical realm of Tír an nÓg, renowned as a place of eternal youth. Drawn on by the sighting of a large hawk the two soon discover a backwards flowing waterfall. The wisdom of age would say NO! But Amy is incorrigible and stubborn. Entering the waterfall, Liam unwillingly follows, and the two are soon in the mythical realm. Worse though, they have no way back! from here on they discover the king mentioned in the title and all manner of nasties. Nasties that capture Liam!
What follows is a fabulous exploration of the land, and its people and, very pleasingly for me, an exploration of relationships, trust and companionship.
I can just imagine this book keeping young readers up to finish the next chapter, and then the next etc. I know I did and loved the ending, tearful though it may have been.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ recommendation!
Catherine Doyle has again brought us the touch of Irish magical charm and compelling MG adventure that was so very strong in her Storm Keeper's Trilogy!
When siblings Amy and Liam are packed off to their grand house in Connemara, not far from the coast, the holiday seems to hold little in the way of excitement for them. Especially as it is raining.
As dawn breaks on the first morning of arriving, Amy drags Lliam off to explore. Possibly, hopefully, to find the mythical realm of Tír an nÓg, renowned as a place of eternal youth. Drawn on by the sighting of a large hawk the two soon discover a backwards flowing waterfall. The wisdom of age would say NO! But Amy is incorrigible and stubborn. Entering the waterfall, Liam unwillingly follows, and the two are soon in the mythical realm. Worse though, they have no way back! from here on they discover the king mentioned in the title and all manner of nasties. Nasties that capture Liam!
What follows is a fabulous exploration of the land, and its people and, very pleasingly for me, an exploration of relationships, trust and companionship.
I can just imagine this book keeping young readers up to finish the next chapter, and then the next etc. I know I did and loved the ending, tearful though it may have been.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ recommendation!
October 2, 2022
I really enjoyed the elements of Celtic\Irish mythology but I felt it was only very slightly less fast paced than other books I have read
Will definitely read again
Will definitely read again
November 20, 2022
The Lost Girl King by Catherine Doyle. Two siblings are sent to grandma’s house on the west coast of Ireland. Setting out on a walk one day they find themselves trapped in the magical land of Tír na nÓg. Kidnapped by a band of headless horseman and imprisoned by a wizard, Amy will do anything to save her brother Liam including assembling a rebel army. This standalone adventure is more sweet than scary
September 26, 2022
This story is awesome! Loved it!
October 8, 2022
This is the new Catherine Doyle middle grade book, and I’ve been a big fan since the Blood for Blood trilogy and loved both the Storm Keeper’s Island books and her collaboration with Katherine Webber, so I was very excited about it, especially as me and my friend Rach decided to read it together. It follows siblings Amy and Liam as they journey through the veil to Tír na nÓg and end up involved in trying to break the curse cast there by a wicked sorcerer. The sibling relationship is so lovely, and there is such a variety of wonderful cast members that it would be hard to pick a favourite of the ensemble (although I reckon it’s Gilda!). This is based around Irish mythology, which is so fascinating, and I’m loving seeing it more of it in fiction recently, because I love learning about myths I’ve never heard of and know nothing about. On that note, the worldbuilding is also brilliantly done, and I loved the way this comes together so perfectly at the end. Absolutely perfect for fans of the Castle of Tangled Magic and Orla and the Wild Hunt, for sure!
May 9, 2022
Magnificent MG fiction. You can read my full review here: http://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home....
June 14, 2022
The Lost Girl King is a Middle-grade fantasy fiction, full of adventure, magic and whatnot! I was intrigued when I read it's perfect for the fans of JRR Tolkein and CS Lewis fans, and I knew I have to read it the second I saw it's written by Catherine.
The story takes place in the magical world of Tír na nÓg. The MC Amy and her brother Liam, during a stroll near her grandmother's house, discovered a peculiar waterfall. While investigating, Amy falls into the waterfall and like a good caring brother, Liam follows her. They discover that they have found themselves in the hidden world of Tír na nÓg, where the sun is chained and the time is frozen. Immediately after entering the world, Liam gets captured by the "headless" horseman troop who answers to the evil magician Tarlock. Amy would have to find a way to save her brother and free the once beautiful kingdom of Tír na nÓg.
This is a Middle-grade book, but I can assure you that it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It's very well written and it's so easy to read, that you would devour it in one go.!
The relationships throughout the book, between all the characters was something I adored the most. The beautiful relationship between Amy and Liam, where they both tend to annoy each other like crazy, but also the unconditional love & care for you sibling can be seen. Then you have the relationship between Amy & Oscar was so funny (Little lass Amy bossing around Oscar was fun to read). There's also the relationship between a leader and his troop (Oscar & his Fianna warriors).
The world building is amazing. The story is inspired by Irish mythology, which was really interesting to read.
The book was a perfect read and it was HIGHLY recommend it.!
The story takes place in the magical world of Tír na nÓg. The MC Amy and her brother Liam, during a stroll near her grandmother's house, discovered a peculiar waterfall. While investigating, Amy falls into the waterfall and like a good caring brother, Liam follows her. They discover that they have found themselves in the hidden world of Tír na nÓg, where the sun is chained and the time is frozen. Immediately after entering the world, Liam gets captured by the "headless" horseman troop who answers to the evil magician Tarlock. Amy would have to find a way to save her brother and free the once beautiful kingdom of Tír na nÓg.
This is a Middle-grade book, but I can assure you that it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It's very well written and it's so easy to read, that you would devour it in one go.!
The relationships throughout the book, between all the characters was something I adored the most. The beautiful relationship between Amy and Liam, where they both tend to annoy each other like crazy, but also the unconditional love & care for you sibling can be seen. Then you have the relationship between Amy & Oscar was so funny (Little lass Amy bossing around Oscar was fun to read). There's also the relationship between a leader and his troop (Oscar & his Fianna warriors).
The world building is amazing. The story is inspired by Irish mythology, which was really interesting to read.
The book was a perfect read and it was HIGHLY recommend it.!
July 12, 2022
The Lost Girl King
By Catherine Doyle
Published by Bloomsbury
Siblings Amy and Liam are packed off to stay at Gran's house in the wilds of Connemara for the summer holidays only to find all is not as it first seems. A bird disappearing through a waterfall is not what they expect to see as they walk through the woods on their first trip out. An entrance to Tir na nOg, the legendary land of eternal youth is where the bird leads them. But Liam being captured by a troop of headless horsemen is what shocks Amy into action. She cannot leave him and seek help. She must find the courage to face the ruling sorcerer of Tir na nOg, who seeks the bones of a human child for a sinister new spell. Drama pursuits, but Amy has to prove her worth.
This edge-of-your seat adventure, full of imagination, warmth and bravery proves how passionately Doyle’s writing is. Taking you across every step & around every corner enabling you to feel the tension, taste the action and see through your minds eye, The Lost Girl King comes alive with enchanting, magical Irish folklore.
Joanne Bardgett - Year 3 teacher of littlies, lover of books
#Netgallery
#bloomsbury
By Catherine Doyle
Published by Bloomsbury
Siblings Amy and Liam are packed off to stay at Gran's house in the wilds of Connemara for the summer holidays only to find all is not as it first seems. A bird disappearing through a waterfall is not what they expect to see as they walk through the woods on their first trip out. An entrance to Tir na nOg, the legendary land of eternal youth is where the bird leads them. But Liam being captured by a troop of headless horsemen is what shocks Amy into action. She cannot leave him and seek help. She must find the courage to face the ruling sorcerer of Tir na nOg, who seeks the bones of a human child for a sinister new spell. Drama pursuits, but Amy has to prove her worth.
This edge-of-your seat adventure, full of imagination, warmth and bravery proves how passionately Doyle’s writing is. Taking you across every step & around every corner enabling you to feel the tension, taste the action and see through your minds eye, The Lost Girl King comes alive with enchanting, magical Irish folklore.
Joanne Bardgett - Year 3 teacher of littlies, lover of books
#Netgallery
#bloomsbury
September 11, 2022
3.75 stars. Fun and adventurous story. Interesting take on Irish mythology.
April 26, 2022
An amazing adventure through the mystical Irish land of Tir Na Nog! Couldn't put down, the extremely well written and pacy story engaged me throughout.
I would take a bullet for Conan.
I would take a bullet for Conan.
April 23, 2022
A beautiful and epic adventure. This is so well written that the magic flows throughout. Highly recommend this book for all ages, I wish I had this book when I was younger!
January 1, 2023
Amy and Liam spending the summer with their grandmother go off on an adventure through a waterfall and discover the magical land of Tír na nÓg.
I gave this book 4 stars.
I enjoyed the story, however, the let down for me was just how much of a brat Amy is. She is just so rude, disrespectful and manipulative. She has a blatant disregard for not only her safety but for others as well.
She takes no heed in instructions or warnings given to her by the inhabitants of this magical land she knows nothing about and will do whatever takes her fancy even if her actions cause harm to another. At the end of the story she shows no gratitude or appreciation to the warriors that helped her rescue her brother that had been held captive by an evil sorcerer.
The girl king wasn't as horrid as Amy and she had been held in Tír na nÓg under a spell for 60 years.
Getting passed the bad behaviour of the main character the story is quite magical, slipping into a world hidden inside our own that is being held under a curse by the evil Tarlock and to keep his curse in place he needs two more interlopers (human children) to refresh his curse and live forever.
I gave this book 4 stars.
I enjoyed the story, however, the let down for me was just how much of a brat Amy is. She is just so rude, disrespectful and manipulative. She has a blatant disregard for not only her safety but for others as well.
She takes no heed in instructions or warnings given to her by the inhabitants of this magical land she knows nothing about and will do whatever takes her fancy even if her actions cause harm to another. At the end of the story she shows no gratitude or appreciation to the warriors that helped her rescue her brother that had been held captive by an evil sorcerer.
The girl king wasn't as horrid as Amy and she had been held in Tír na nÓg under a spell for 60 years.
Getting passed the bad behaviour of the main character the story is quite magical, slipping into a world hidden inside our own that is being held under a curse by the evil Tarlock and to keep his curse in place he needs two more interlopers (human children) to refresh his curse and live forever.
March 14, 2023
This is the story of Amy and her brother Liam who go through an enchanted waterfall and ended up in the Land of Tir na nÓg .
They are separated almost immediately. Amy must find a way to not only save Liam but also lift the curse that blights the land thanks to an evil magician.
I really liked the character of Amy in this. She doesn't have any special powers other than a determination to not do anything she's told to.
It felt like reading a high stakes fantasy in only 300 pages. I really wish there had been a map with it.
I enjoyed it so much that I will be searching out other books by Catherine Doyle.
Thank you to the publisher for my readers copy.
They are separated almost immediately. Amy must find a way to not only save Liam but also lift the curse that blights the land thanks to an evil magician.
I really liked the character of Amy in this. She doesn't have any special powers other than a determination to not do anything she's told to.
It felt like reading a high stakes fantasy in only 300 pages. I really wish there had been a map with it.
I enjoyed it so much that I will be searching out other books by Catherine Doyle.
Thank you to the publisher for my readers copy.
January 8, 2023
I haven’t read a middle grade fantasy in a long time, and try to think of how I’d feel if I was 8 again and reading this. I think it would be just adventurous and magical enough to stick with me for a long time to come.
April 12, 2023
I wanted to read a middle grade fantasy adventure and chose this one because of the title and cover art.
I was pleasantly surprised. Lots of adventure. Lots of funny scenes. Interesting concept. I was swept away! Exactly what I wanted.
I was pleasantly surprised. Lots of adventure. Lots of funny scenes. Interesting concept. I was swept away! Exactly what I wanted.
March 14, 2023
the ending ❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹 sobbing ❤️🩹❤️🩹❤️🩹
March 22, 2023
Cute and well-written MG book :)
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