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Gael Song Trilogy #3
The Land of the Living and the Dead
The old world will die in flames…
Ireland, 1011 AD. Brian Boru is now High King of Ireland. His queen, Gormflaith, instructs their young son in his heritage - but only on his mother's side. For Gormflaith, an immortal Fomorian skilled in fire-magic, intends to finally defeat the Fomorians' hated foes, the Descendants, and establish control over Ireland. And if King Brian stands in her way, so much the worse for him…
Fódla, the Descendants' spy in King Brian's camp, treads a wary path. She must protect her magically powerful young nephew from their leader, Tomas, who will do anything to achieve his aim of the Descendants returning to the mortal world and ruling Ireland. And Fódla is on dangerous ground, for she has broken one of the sacred rules of the she has fallen in love with a mortal.
As the schemes of Gormflaith and Tomas come to fruition, the only possible outcome is war. Ireland has bled red and often… but the coming clash will be a battle for the ages. Strange alliances will form, old defences will fail, and the land will never be the same again.
Reviewers on Shauna Lawless' Gael Song series
'Lawless blends fantasy with historical fiction to great effect.' SFX
'Lawless's writing is absolutely luminous.' Irish Independent
'Swept me along and refused to be put down.' H.M. Long
Ireland, 1011 AD. Brian Boru is now High King of Ireland. His queen, Gormflaith, instructs their young son in his heritage - but only on his mother's side. For Gormflaith, an immortal Fomorian skilled in fire-magic, intends to finally defeat the Fomorians' hated foes, the Descendants, and establish control over Ireland. And if King Brian stands in her way, so much the worse for him…
Fódla, the Descendants' spy in King Brian's camp, treads a wary path. She must protect her magically powerful young nephew from their leader, Tomas, who will do anything to achieve his aim of the Descendants returning to the mortal world and ruling Ireland. And Fódla is on dangerous ground, for she has broken one of the sacred rules of the she has fallen in love with a mortal.
As the schemes of Gormflaith and Tomas come to fruition, the only possible outcome is war. Ireland has bled red and often… but the coming clash will be a battle for the ages. Strange alliances will form, old defences will fail, and the land will never be the same again.
Reviewers on Shauna Lawless' Gael Song series
'Lawless blends fantasy with historical fiction to great effect.' SFX
'Lawless's writing is absolutely luminous.' Irish Independent
'Swept me along and refused to be put down.' H.M. Long
592 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2024
118 people are currently reading
4872 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 399 reviews
August 24, 2025
What can I say about this third book other than it was just as captivating and engaging as the previous two installments? It delivered what I wanted. Did this book stir enough frustration in me that I was grinding my teeth until it hurt? Yes, absolutely, but despite that, I still found it utterly enjoyable.
The plot in this installment is notably more intense and significantly bloodier, reflecting the rising stakes of the impending war and the chaotic aftermath that follows. The author masterfully weaves a tapestry of tension that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Fódla remains my favorite character, although I felt her character development didn’t progress as much in this book as I had hoped. I wish the author had explored her potential more deeply. However, despite this slight disappointment, I found her storyline to be incredibly compelling, filled with moments that will linger in my mind for a long time. Reading from her point of view was a thrilling ride, as her strength and complexity shone through the narrative.
Colmon, too, continues to be an endearing character who captures my heart. I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is that drew me to him so strongly, but his unwavering integrity and kindness resonate with me. In this book, he faced challenges that truly tested his spirit, and his moments of vulnerability made me shed tears. He embodies the essence of a good man, and it’s impossible not to root for him.
Conversely, Gormflaith has become a source of immense frustration. I can confidently say that I hate her, hoping she meets her end in the next book. While she serves as a competent antagonist, her perspective was torturous to navigate, particularly because she had the longest chapters. Reading her chapters took me so long because I found her arc to be so boring.
The character who truly stood out for me in this volume is Broccan, Fódla's nephew. His journey from a naive child to a mature adult discovering love and honing his unique gift was nothing short of remarkable. His love story was such a tragedy and made me so emotional; he deserves all the happiness life can offer.
Once again, I can’t finish this review without highlighting the incredible relationships that define this series. Whether it’s the beautiful romance of Fódla and Murchad, the complex dynamic between Broccan and his beloved, or even the fraught connection between Gormflaith and Olaf, the author skillfully portrays these bonds with depth and realism that truly tug at my heartstrings.
In conclusion, I adored this book and eagerly await the fourth installment, where we’ll delve deeper into the new generation of characters. I’m excited to see how their stories unfold!
The plot in this installment is notably more intense and significantly bloodier, reflecting the rising stakes of the impending war and the chaotic aftermath that follows. The author masterfully weaves a tapestry of tension that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Fódla remains my favorite character, although I felt her character development didn’t progress as much in this book as I had hoped. I wish the author had explored her potential more deeply. However, despite this slight disappointment, I found her storyline to be incredibly compelling, filled with moments that will linger in my mind for a long time. Reading from her point of view was a thrilling ride, as her strength and complexity shone through the narrative.
Colmon, too, continues to be an endearing character who captures my heart. I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is that drew me to him so strongly, but his unwavering integrity and kindness resonate with me. In this book, he faced challenges that truly tested his spirit, and his moments of vulnerability made me shed tears. He embodies the essence of a good man, and it’s impossible not to root for him.
Conversely, Gormflaith has become a source of immense frustration. I can confidently say that I hate her, hoping she meets her end in the next book. While she serves as a competent antagonist, her perspective was torturous to navigate, particularly because she had the longest chapters. Reading her chapters took me so long because I found her arc to be so boring.
The character who truly stood out for me in this volume is Broccan, Fódla's nephew. His journey from a naive child to a mature adult discovering love and honing his unique gift was nothing short of remarkable. His love story was such a tragedy and made me so emotional; he deserves all the happiness life can offer.
Once again, I can’t finish this review without highlighting the incredible relationships that define this series. Whether it’s the beautiful romance of Fódla and Murchad, the complex dynamic between Broccan and his beloved, or even the fraught connection between Gormflaith and Olaf, the author skillfully portrays these bonds with depth and realism that truly tug at my heartstrings.
In conclusion, I adored this book and eagerly await the fourth installment, where we’ll delve deeper into the new generation of characters. I’m excited to see how their stories unfold!
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December 22, 2023This is the third book in the Gael Song series!
I can't wait for you all to read it.
As some of you may know, I am writing more novels in this world.
This third book ends the 'first era' - and I am excited for you all to know what happens...
I can't wait for you all to read it.
As some of you may know, I am writing more novels in this world.
This third book ends the 'first era' - and I am excited for you all to know what happens...
September 16, 2024
Received an advance copy of The Land of the Living and the Dead from the publisher in return for an honest review
I am NOT OKAY after that ending...
Well, the first two instalments are brilliant, but The Land of the Living and the Dead still stands head-and-shoulders over them. This is a masterful conclusion to a truly unique historical fantasy series that gives us an epic lens into Irish mythology and Irish history whilst expertly giving us an intimate story as well that we can invest and find ourselves to be truly moved in.
With The Land of the Living and the Dead we jump back into early 11th century Ireland, as its stability hangs on a thread. A level of peace has been achieved, but how long will this last? There are always those seeking power, especially when the Fomorians are closer than ever to finding the hidden strongholds of the Descendants….
The Land of the Living and the Dead takes the stakes to a whole new level. You feel the dire consequences of actions and events as they unfold, and these pages carry such a punch with them. Lawless provides a story that is moving and heartwarming, but also shocking and heartbreaking. It is such a rollercoaster of emotions, from heartfelt reunions and moments of truth to betrayals and deceit, this is a book that will MOVE you.
Whilst still prioritising political machinations and character interactions, there is far more action in this third instalment, and wow is it done well. From ambushes to skirmishes to duels to large battles, all are executed so well, but also in a way where you really feel the weight of each conflict. Also, the off-screen battles carry more weight than I can think of in any other series. You really feel the fate of our characters could change at any second.
Something particularly unique to the Gael Song series is the equal light shone on the villains as well as the heroes. You understand the reasons and motivations for each perspective you follow, so there are not villains for villains sake. Each is a fully-fleshed out character with their own dreams and ambitions.
This is a truly masterful conclusion to the Gael Song trilogy, and I cannot wait to find out what happens in the next era of the conflict between the Fomorians and the Descendants. I am not okay after the end of this book, and need time to recover….
5/5 STARS
BookTube channel with my awesome brother, Ed - The Brothers Gwynne
My personal BookTube channel - William Gwynne
I am NOT OKAY after that ending...
Well, the first two instalments are brilliant, but The Land of the Living and the Dead still stands head-and-shoulders over them. This is a masterful conclusion to a truly unique historical fantasy series that gives us an epic lens into Irish mythology and Irish history whilst expertly giving us an intimate story as well that we can invest and find ourselves to be truly moved in.
With The Land of the Living and the Dead we jump back into early 11th century Ireland, as its stability hangs on a thread. A level of peace has been achieved, but how long will this last? There are always those seeking power, especially when the Fomorians are closer than ever to finding the hidden strongholds of the Descendants….
The Land of the Living and the Dead takes the stakes to a whole new level. You feel the dire consequences of actions and events as they unfold, and these pages carry such a punch with them. Lawless provides a story that is moving and heartwarming, but also shocking and heartbreaking. It is such a rollercoaster of emotions, from heartfelt reunions and moments of truth to betrayals and deceit, this is a book that will MOVE you.
Whilst still prioritising political machinations and character interactions, there is far more action in this third instalment, and wow is it done well. From ambushes to skirmishes to duels to large battles, all are executed so well, but also in a way where you really feel the weight of each conflict. Also, the off-screen battles carry more weight than I can think of in any other series. You really feel the fate of our characters could change at any second.
Something particularly unique to the Gael Song series is the equal light shone on the villains as well as the heroes. You understand the reasons and motivations for each perspective you follow, so there are not villains for villains sake. Each is a fully-fleshed out character with their own dreams and ambitions.
This is a truly masterful conclusion to the Gael Song trilogy, and I cannot wait to find out what happens in the next era of the conflict between the Fomorians and the Descendants. I am not okay after the end of this book, and need time to recover….
5/5 STARS
BookTube channel with my awesome brother, Ed - The Brothers Gwynne
My personal BookTube channel - William Gwynne
May 10, 2025
My review is published at Before We Go Blog.
Shauna Lawless reveals the full extent of her tear harvesting powers in The Land of the Living and the Dead, the heart-wrenching conclusion to her Gael Song trilogy, which combines fantasy, mythology, and real Irish history to both dazzling and devastating effect.
The Land of the Living and the Dead follows the remaining members of two magical races who live among the mortal beings of Ireland circa 1000 AD. Gormflaith is a Fomorian, imbued with fire-magic and scheming to seize power while taking revenge on her ancient enemies, the Descendants of the Tuatha Dé Danann, who believe all Fomorians to be dead. Fódla is a Descendant and a healer, grieving personal loss and struggling to find the right path forward for herself and her loved ones.
The Land of the Living and the Dead interweaves the longstanding conflict between the Fomorians and the Descendants with individual tales of love, loss, and betrayal. Meanwhile, changing alliances shape the already tenuous relationship between these two immortal races and the various human factions, also vying for power in Emerald Isle.
Although Gormflaith and Fódla are the two main protagonists of the novel, The Land of the Living and the Dead switches perspective among several additional point-of-view characters. Lawless expertly balances all of these perspectives while never losing focus on the main story.
Somehow, the Gael Song trilogy just gets better with each new volume. Shauna Lawless’s prose is compulsively readable, propelling the plot forward among multiple perspectives while deepening readers’ emotional connection to each of the main characters. For all of the action, there is also a quiet restraint to Lawless’s writing, revealing layer upon layer of nuance. All of this builds up to a devastating tear-jerker of an ending that will haunt your dreams long after closing the back cover of the book.
Altogether, The Land of the Living and the Dead is an emotional stunner of a novel, reaffirming Shauna Lawless as the Emerald Empress of Grimdark. The Gael Song trilogy is highly recommended for fans of nuanced historical fantasy.
Shauna Lawless reveals the full extent of her tear harvesting powers in The Land of the Living and the Dead, the heart-wrenching conclusion to her Gael Song trilogy, which combines fantasy, mythology, and real Irish history to both dazzling and devastating effect.
The Land of the Living and the Dead follows the remaining members of two magical races who live among the mortal beings of Ireland circa 1000 AD. Gormflaith is a Fomorian, imbued with fire-magic and scheming to seize power while taking revenge on her ancient enemies, the Descendants of the Tuatha Dé Danann, who believe all Fomorians to be dead. Fódla is a Descendant and a healer, grieving personal loss and struggling to find the right path forward for herself and her loved ones.
The Land of the Living and the Dead interweaves the longstanding conflict between the Fomorians and the Descendants with individual tales of love, loss, and betrayal. Meanwhile, changing alliances shape the already tenuous relationship between these two immortal races and the various human factions, also vying for power in Emerald Isle.
Although Gormflaith and Fódla are the two main protagonists of the novel, The Land of the Living and the Dead switches perspective among several additional point-of-view characters. Lawless expertly balances all of these perspectives while never losing focus on the main story.
Somehow, the Gael Song trilogy just gets better with each new volume. Shauna Lawless’s prose is compulsively readable, propelling the plot forward among multiple perspectives while deepening readers’ emotional connection to each of the main characters. For all of the action, there is also a quiet restraint to Lawless’s writing, revealing layer upon layer of nuance. All of this builds up to a devastating tear-jerker of an ending that will haunt your dreams long after closing the back cover of the book.
Altogether, The Land of the Living and the Dead is an emotional stunner of a novel, reaffirming Shauna Lawless as the Emerald Empress of Grimdark. The Gael Song trilogy is highly recommended for fans of nuanced historical fantasy.
October 3, 2024
If you've read the first two books, and I advise you to give them a go, then you'll know what to expect here. More excellent writing, more great characterisation, and more battles/politics within the framework of real events in the Ireland of 1012-ish.
There's lots of ground to cover in this book with a sizeable number of lesser kings vying for power and trying to get out from High-King Brian's control. There are weddings, born both from affection and from political necessity, betrayals both within the family and between allies, and fights from duels to battlefields.
The plots laid through the trilogy come to a head - Queen Gomflaith's plans are put to the test on the Irish map and in the conflict between Formorians and Descendants.
It's hard to end a sprawling tale well. Even more so when real history dictates the broad strokes in terms of who lives and dies, who prevails on the battlefield and in the peace. Lawless does a fine job though, giving a variety of emotional ends to the PoV characters and their circles of friends and family.
The number of PoVs expanded from book 1 to book 2 (as I recall) and expands again in book 3, all of them written in the first person - which has a certain power, forcing the reader to identify with all the characters more than they might otherwise have done so. First person gets us into the heads of the "evil" characters, showing them as people, albeit terrible ones, with genuine motivations, regrets and such. It's a more sophisticated take than some that are often seen in fantasy.
The end feels more like a nautral pause as history (obviously) rolls on, and a number of key characters end up in the wind with unresolved issues. I can sense another trilogy on the horizon, rejoining the story after a generation or maybe several generations.
I very much enjoyed the read. It was emotional at times, exciting, infuritating, intriguing. Definitely dive in if you've been holding off until the trilogy was complete.
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December 24, 2024
RATING BREAKDOWN
Characters: 5⭐️
Setting: 5⭐️
Plot: 5⭐️
Themes: 4⭐️
Emotional Impact: 4⭐️
Personal Enjoyment: 5⭐️
Total Rounded Average: 4.75⭐️
A poignant, emotionally intense, and satisfying climax to this trilogy, wow. Things escalated to such a breaking point, and in the end, no one was safe! The betrayals, the maneuvering, the reunions, and action—all breathtaking! Shauna Lawless just gets better with every book and this was such an incredible conclusion and set up to the ongoing series. I am thrilled we will be getting an era 2 for Gael Song.
Thematically, I love that this story explores embracing ourselves and telling the truth, regardless of outcome, and risking it all to live before we die. Death is a prevalent part of fantasy, but exploring it in an intimate way like this is more rare. There was quite a bit of poetic irony in this installment which I appreciated, and one of the best-developed villains I've ever read. Lawless also explores charismatic leaders and the consequences of their unchecked power and abuse. Control over others is a central theme, and the difference between strategy vs. conniving manipulation is fascinating.
Overall, I love this series, and this installment was my favorite in the trilogy!
Characters: 5⭐️
Setting: 5⭐️
Plot: 5⭐️
Themes: 4⭐️
Emotional Impact: 4⭐️
Personal Enjoyment: 5⭐️
Total Rounded Average: 4.75⭐️
A poignant, emotionally intense, and satisfying climax to this trilogy, wow. Things escalated to such a breaking point, and in the end, no one was safe! The betrayals, the maneuvering, the reunions, and action—all breathtaking! Shauna Lawless just gets better with every book and this was such an incredible conclusion and set up to the ongoing series. I am thrilled we will be getting an era 2 for Gael Song.
Thematically, I love that this story explores embracing ourselves and telling the truth, regardless of outcome, and risking it all to live before we die. Death is a prevalent part of fantasy, but exploring it in an intimate way like this is more rare. There was quite a bit of poetic irony in this installment which I appreciated, and one of the best-developed villains I've ever read. Lawless also explores charismatic leaders and the consequences of their unchecked power and abuse. Control over others is a central theme, and the difference between strategy vs. conniving manipulation is fascinating.
Overall, I love this series, and this installment was my favorite in the trilogy!
September 17, 2025
I was going to write a full review for this book. I really was. But I'm still suffering from the aftermath of that ending and my therapist Mr Prawn thinks I need to distance myself from Gormflaith this series, at least until I get my PSTD symptoms under control.
I have seen better days, I admit.
I have a feeling the road to recovery will be long and fraught with challenges so you might want to read this review while you areanxiously waiting for mine to magically appear on Goodreads.
P.S. This is the best historical fantasy series I have ever read. FYI and stuff.
P.P.S. This book has one of the highest body counts ever so be grateful if you come out of it unscathed. Oh yes, be VERY grateful indeed.
P.P.P.P.S.S.S.S.S. As Kate Daniels (one of the greatest philosophers of our time) once said, "It is a truth universally acknowledged that Fomorians are nothing but a bunch of psychopathic, callous bitches and unbalanced, evil bastards."
· Book 0.5: Dreams of Fire ★★★★★
· Book 0.6: Dreams of Chaos ★★★★★
· Book 1: The Children of Gods and Fighting Men ★★★★★
· Book 2: The Words of Kings and Prophets ★★★★★
· Book 2.5: Dreams of Sorrow ★★★★★
Gael Song Era 2:
· Book 1: Daughter of the Otherworld ★★★
[Pre-review nonsense]
THAT. ENDING. Not sure I'll ever recover from it.
➽ Review to come and stuff
I have seen better days, I admit.
I have a feeling the road to recovery will be long and fraught with challenges so you might want to read this review while you are
P.S. This is the best historical fantasy series I have ever read. FYI and stuff.
P.P.S. This book has one of the highest body counts ever so be grateful if you come out of it unscathed. Oh yes, be VERY grateful indeed.
P.P.P.P.S.S.S.S.S. As Kate Daniels (one of the greatest philosophers of our time) once said, "It is a truth universally acknowledged that Fomorians are nothing but a bunch of psychopathic, callous bitches and unbalanced, evil bastards."
· Book 0.5: Dreams of Fire ★★★★★
· Book 0.6: Dreams of Chaos ★★★★★
· Book 1: The Children of Gods and Fighting Men ★★★★★
· Book 2: The Words of Kings and Prophets ★★★★★
· Book 2.5: Dreams of Sorrow ★★★★★
Gael Song Era 2:
· Book 1: Daughter of the Otherworld ★★★
[Pre-review nonsense]
THAT. ENDING. Not sure I'll ever recover from it.
➽ Review to come and stuff
September 27, 2024
The best of the trilogy, which is saying something. Such a superb ending to this wonderful mixture of Viking-age historical fiction and Irish mythology, The Land of the Living and the Dead has some scenes that will sit firmly in your mind for a long time to come. Brilliantly crafted characters, tense dialogue, pure terror from the reader and a masterpiece of historical-fantasy.
January 25, 2025
4.5/5
Bloody hell, what a conclusion!
I was not ready for any of that. The title should be "The Land of the Dead and the Few Who Made it out Alive".
I'm gonna need the first book in the sequel series by tomorrow.
As a fan of Vinland Saga, high five to Sven, his son and Torfin, whom I'd pay to see making an entrance in the sequel.
There were a couple of character twists I didn't entirely accept, but overall I've been hooked to their relationships, their hate and their surroundings.
New series to my top 10 fantasy!
Bloody hell, what a conclusion!
I was not ready for any of that. The title should be "The Land of the Dead and the Few Who Made it out Alive".
I'm gonna need the first book in the sequel series by tomorrow.
As a fan of Vinland Saga, high five to Sven, his son and Torfin, whom I'd pay to see making an entrance in the sequel.
There were a couple of character twists I didn't entirely accept, but overall I've been hooked to their relationships, their hate and their surroundings.
New series to my top 10 fantasy!
July 24, 2024
I’m not sure how Lawless expects us to coherently write a review after that ending.
My goodness, I can’t even give constructive notes- just, more please. (Thank goodness two more series are in the works.)
I knew I was invested in the series after book 1- but book 3 made me realize how emotionally invested I was. 😮💨 This series begs to bring out all your feelings.
👏Do👏not👏sleep👏on 👏this👏series👏.
Please.
Pretty please.
To my #historicalfiction friends, my girlies that love #JulietMarillier, #GenevieveGornichec #AmyHarmon – I’m telling you, #shaunalawless is auto-buy TBR worthy.
She takes the history you might vaguely know, and infuses it with magic, drama and romance (though it’s all tastefully done, I wouldn’t mind the next layer of spice 👀🥰).
Speaking of drama- this is some of the most fascinating villain character work… and I’m about to start book 3 of the Nevernight Chronicle. TBH- I might be in my villain era😅😅😅.
Though I read book 3, I listened to books 1 & 2. No matter how you consume it- it’ll be a win.
It’s Christmas in July this week - and boy, oh, boy- did this feel like a gift. Thank you #Netgalley & #headofzeus for this ARC!
I also want to thank @mythslleniouslibrary for fangirling over this with me in @the.storygraph - the buddy read function in there is awesome.
My goodness, I can’t even give constructive notes- just, more please. (Thank goodness two more series are in the works.)
I knew I was invested in the series after book 1- but book 3 made me realize how emotionally invested I was. 😮💨 This series begs to bring out all your feelings.
👏Do👏not👏sleep👏on 👏this👏series👏.
Please.
Pretty please.
To my #historicalfiction friends, my girlies that love #JulietMarillier, #GenevieveGornichec #AmyHarmon – I’m telling you, #shaunalawless is auto-buy TBR worthy.
She takes the history you might vaguely know, and infuses it with magic, drama and romance (though it’s all tastefully done, I wouldn’t mind the next layer of spice 👀🥰).
Speaking of drama- this is some of the most fascinating villain character work… and I’m about to start book 3 of the Nevernight Chronicle. TBH- I might be in my villain era😅😅😅.
Though I read book 3, I listened to books 1 & 2. No matter how you consume it- it’ll be a win.
It’s Christmas in July this week - and boy, oh, boy- did this feel like a gift. Thank you #Netgalley & #headofzeus for this ARC!
I also want to thank @mythslleniouslibrary for fangirling over this with me in @the.storygraph - the buddy read function in there is awesome.
September 23, 2024
4.25
I enjoyed this series so much and can't wait for the next one!!
I enjoyed this series so much and can't wait for the next one!!
October 13, 2024
Guess who just got an ARC?
That's right!
Been waiting a long time for this book. Time to put my game face on.
LET'S DO THIS!
Holy smokes! What a way to end. I cannot express how utterly brilliant and talented I think Shauna Lawless is. She brought to life and color the Irish history and mythology in such a remarkable way.
And I cried my heart out.
That's right!
Been waiting a long time for this book. Time to put my game face on.
LET'S DO THIS!
Breathtaking
Spectacular
Astounding
Stunning
EPIC
Holy smokes! What a way to end. I cannot express how utterly brilliant and talented I think Shauna Lawless is. She brought to life and color the Irish history and mythology in such a remarkable way.
And I cried my heart out.
September 6, 2024
MY HEART HURTS
July 8, 2024
Satisfying book, but also unsatisfyingly ambiguous finale.
Eleven years later, and still the game of Kings is in motion in Ireland. A war on two fronts.
Gormflaith, Máelmórda, and Sitric plan to wrest the High King title from King Brian. They plan to earn his trust, win his wars, and then turn on him when the time is right.
Gormflaith can now command the witch gift she stole and knows the location of the Descendants fortress. While the battle for Ireland causes chaos amongst the mortals, the Fomorians plan to kill the Descendants.
Fódla, Broccan, and Colmon decide to rejoin the world after Broccan is sufficiently trained and they each must decide where the future leads them. Back to the fortress to warn against Tomas’s lies and deception? Back to the mortals where they made their lives?
Lawless delivers Irish history, battle scenes, and intimate character moments with such finesse that it blends genres and makes her saga extremely impactful.
”Love isn't dependent on it being returned."
The stakes are a lot higher in this book, and my distaste for certain characters boiled and raged. Whilst I had previously admired Gormflaith, even whilst I condoned her actions, this book made me hate her with a passion that rivals my disgust with Tomas.
Lawless brings in issues of gender, slavery, marriage, and motherhood and what that means. Seeing what these relationships mean, who can claim them, how this changes dynamics is fascinating in a land where family hostages, marriage alliances, and fostering is common.
Why couldn't men give their word and keep it, without needing flesh in their beds to hold them true?
The adventure isn’t over yet! The first era of history is covered; but the fight between the Fomorians and Descendants is far from over!
For this reason, I was surprised thinking this was the final instalment and did feel cheated by a rushed and sudden ending which seemed to cheat us of the slow building crescendo throughout the books so far.
However, history isn’t stagnant, and of course this isn’t the end of Irish history.
Thank you to Head of Zeus for providing me an arc in exchange for a review!
Bookstagram
Eleven years later, and still the game of Kings is in motion in Ireland. A war on two fronts.
Gormflaith, Máelmórda, and Sitric plan to wrest the High King title from King Brian. They plan to earn his trust, win his wars, and then turn on him when the time is right.
Gormflaith can now command the witch gift she stole and knows the location of the Descendants fortress. While the battle for Ireland causes chaos amongst the mortals, the Fomorians plan to kill the Descendants.
Fódla, Broccan, and Colmon decide to rejoin the world after Broccan is sufficiently trained and they each must decide where the future leads them. Back to the fortress to warn against Tomas’s lies and deception? Back to the mortals where they made their lives?
Lawless delivers Irish history, battle scenes, and intimate character moments with such finesse that it blends genres and makes her saga extremely impactful.
”Love isn't dependent on it being returned."
The stakes are a lot higher in this book, and my distaste for certain characters boiled and raged. Whilst I had previously admired Gormflaith, even whilst I condoned her actions, this book made me hate her with a passion that rivals my disgust with Tomas.
Lawless brings in issues of gender, slavery, marriage, and motherhood and what that means. Seeing what these relationships mean, who can claim them, how this changes dynamics is fascinating in a land where family hostages, marriage alliances, and fostering is common.
Why couldn't men give their word and keep it, without needing flesh in their beds to hold them true?
The adventure isn’t over yet! The first era of history is covered; but the fight between the Fomorians and Descendants is far from over!
For this reason, I was surprised thinking this was the final instalment and did feel cheated by a rushed and sudden ending which seemed to cheat us of the slow building crescendo throughout the books so far.
However, history isn’t stagnant, and of course this isn’t the end of Irish history.
Thank you to Head of Zeus for providing me an arc in exchange for a review!
Bookstagram
April 3, 2024
What a conclusion to this trilogy! More detailed review to come.
October 4, 2024
5 stars / This was the perfect conclusion to a trilogy that completely consumed me. I rarely pick up sequels right after finishing a book, but with this series... I just couldn’t stop. Thank goodness book 3 was released in September!
What makes this final installment so special is the way every character’s arc ended in a very organic way. Gormflaith was always destined to become a truly despicable villain after everything she went through. Unlike the previous books, I could no longer excuse her actions. Her descent into (even more) paranoia was executed perfectly.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but even the sadder endings were perfectly in sync with the story the book was trying to tell. And yes, that ending shattered me—I never cry while reading, but this time, I did.
The worldbuilding remained as strong and immersive as ever (seriously, it doesn’t get much better than this in the historical fantasy genre), but it was the characters, their struggles, and their evolution that made me love this series so much.
If you haven’t yet discovered this series, go read it. It’s a flawless voyage.
What makes this final installment so special is the way every character’s arc ended in a very organic way. Gormflaith was always destined to become a truly despicable villain after everything she went through. Unlike the previous books, I could no longer excuse her actions. Her descent into (even more) paranoia was executed perfectly.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but even the sadder endings were perfectly in sync with the story the book was trying to tell. And yes, that ending shattered me—I never cry while reading, but this time, I did.
The worldbuilding remained as strong and immersive as ever (seriously, it doesn’t get much better than this in the historical fantasy genre), but it was the characters, their struggles, and their evolution that made me love this series so much.
If you haven’t yet discovered this series, go read it. It’s a flawless voyage.
June 8, 2025
re-read in progress bc I miss my favorite characters
still 5 ⭐. I'm emotionally devastated and I knew what was coming
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Let's just get this very obvious point out in the open. I LOVE THIS SERIES WITH MY WHOLE HEART. The novellas are somehow just as thoughtfully and richly written as the full novels. I am so glad that there will be other stories in this world because I honestly don't know if I could cope with this being the end. Gael Song series gets a 100/5 for me. Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Onto The Land of the Living and the Dead. We open a decade after The Words of Kings and Prophets ends. Brian Boru is attempting to unify Ireland under his rule. Gormflaith is still side-eyeing everyone and scheming HARD, pulling the strings of everyone in her orbit. I'm honestly not sure how I can root for her downfall and yet want her to keep on keeping on, because her behavior is so unhinged. The moments of humanity in her juxtaposed to her absolutely deviant behavior is *chef's kiss*.
Fodla, Coleman and Broccan attempt to uncover Tomas's treachery to the Descendants. Fodla and Broccan dream of returning to their friends in Killaloe and living normal lives, without the shadow of fear of being hunted. Do we think this works out? Of course not.
**maybe? spoiler ahead**
I think an important thing to remember with this series, is that the author has done extensive research to bring an accurate history of Ireland, into this story. Yes there is a healthy dose of Irish and Viking mythology, and some fantasy elements, but at its core this book especially, feels more historical fiction to me than anything else. The settings are mostly real places, as are many of characters and you can feel that Shauna's aim is to bring them to life with as much respect and care as possible.
If you are at all familiar with Brian Boru and his family's fate at the Battle of Clontarf, you will know how this ends.However, it is the way Shauna Lawless intricately weaves the elements of history, myth, and fantasy together to create a story that makes you feel like it could have actually happened, that is an absolute testament to her skill as a storyteller. She totally immerses you in the setting and plotline of these characters. Let me tell you I WAS INVESTED.
I am totally devastated that Murchad and Fodla's portion of this is over, but cannot wait to see what is next in this world.
DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS SERIES PEOPLE!!
still 5 ⭐. I'm emotionally devastated and I knew what was coming
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Let's just get this very obvious point out in the open. I LOVE THIS SERIES WITH MY WHOLE HEART. The novellas are somehow just as thoughtfully and richly written as the full novels. I am so glad that there will be other stories in this world because I honestly don't know if I could cope with this being the end. Gael Song series gets a 100/5 for me. Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Onto The Land of the Living and the Dead. We open a decade after The Words of Kings and Prophets ends. Brian Boru is attempting to unify Ireland under his rule. Gormflaith is still side-eyeing everyone and scheming HARD, pulling the strings of everyone in her orbit. I'm honestly not sure how I can root for her downfall and yet want her to keep on keeping on, because her behavior is so unhinged. The moments of humanity in her juxtaposed to her absolutely deviant behavior is *chef's kiss*.
Fodla, Coleman and Broccan attempt to uncover Tomas's treachery to the Descendants. Fodla and Broccan dream of returning to their friends in Killaloe and living normal lives, without the shadow of fear of being hunted. Do we think this works out? Of course not.
**maybe? spoiler ahead**
I think an important thing to remember with this series, is that the author has done extensive research to bring an accurate history of Ireland, into this story. Yes there is a healthy dose of Irish and Viking mythology, and some fantasy elements, but at its core this book especially, feels more historical fiction to me than anything else. The settings are mostly real places, as are many of characters and you can feel that Shauna's aim is to bring them to life with as much respect and care as possible.
If you are at all familiar with Brian Boru and his family's fate at the Battle of Clontarf, you will know how this ends.However, it is the way Shauna Lawless intricately weaves the elements of history, myth, and fantasy together to create a story that makes you feel like it could have actually happened, that is an absolute testament to her skill as a storyteller. She totally immerses you in the setting and plotline of these characters. Let me tell you I WAS INVESTED.
I am totally devastated that Murchad and Fodla's portion of this is over, but cannot wait to see what is next in this world.
DO NOT SLEEP ON THIS SERIES PEOPLE!!
September 16, 2024
Review originally on JamReads
The Land of the Living and the Dead is the gripping and heart-stoping finale to the historical fantasy trilogy Gael Song, written by Shauna Lawless, and published by Ad Astra. Gormflaith plans to finally end with the Descendants, and establish the Fomorian control over Ireland with the help of her son; meanwhile, the Descendants are divided over controlling humans, with Tomas scheming in order to finally make the Descendants return and rule over Ireland. Flames of war are on the horizon.
After two ambitious novels in the trilogy, this third instalment doesn't disappoint, raising the stakes to a whole new level; you can feel how Gormflaith has become much more ambitious and power focused once she's near to discover the location of the fortress, but sometimes ambition comes with a prize. Fodla is trying to reach the fortress and finally break that firm control Tomas exerts over the Descendants; but only she manages to not get caught before by his spies.
With the excellent writing style that characterizes Lawless, we still have space for exploring the difficult equilibrium between Irish and Vikings, and how our two groups involved won't doubt to play with the humans if that pushes them towards their final goal. But if something marks this book, is the weight of consequences. All the actions brought us to this point, and even with all in mind, we will be surprised by how the plot develops.
As in the previous two books, how mythology and fantasy are brought together around a relatively unknown historical moment makes this an excellent story, as it does a great work balancing both aspects while being accurate to those small aspects that transports the reader to 11th century Ireland. The pacing is excellent, allowing you to devour this book while being a bit sad that this means the ending of an era.
The Land of the Living and the Dead is the conclusion Gael Song deserved; Lawless raises the level once more to write a memorable story to close a series that is perfect if you are looking for fantasy rooted in history, and a healthy dose of Vikings. Shauna Lawless is an auto-buy author for me, and this series is the reason for it.
The Land of the Living and the Dead is the gripping and heart-stoping finale to the historical fantasy trilogy Gael Song, written by Shauna Lawless, and published by Ad Astra. Gormflaith plans to finally end with the Descendants, and establish the Fomorian control over Ireland with the help of her son; meanwhile, the Descendants are divided over controlling humans, with Tomas scheming in order to finally make the Descendants return and rule over Ireland. Flames of war are on the horizon.
After two ambitious novels in the trilogy, this third instalment doesn't disappoint, raising the stakes to a whole new level; you can feel how Gormflaith has become much more ambitious and power focused once she's near to discover the location of the fortress, but sometimes ambition comes with a prize. Fodla is trying to reach the fortress and finally break that firm control Tomas exerts over the Descendants; but only she manages to not get caught before by his spies.
With the excellent writing style that characterizes Lawless, we still have space for exploring the difficult equilibrium between Irish and Vikings, and how our two groups involved won't doubt to play with the humans if that pushes them towards their final goal. But if something marks this book, is the weight of consequences. All the actions brought us to this point, and even with all in mind, we will be surprised by how the plot develops.
As in the previous two books, how mythology and fantasy are brought together around a relatively unknown historical moment makes this an excellent story, as it does a great work balancing both aspects while being accurate to those small aspects that transports the reader to 11th century Ireland. The pacing is excellent, allowing you to devour this book while being a bit sad that this means the ending of an era.
The Land of the Living and the Dead is the conclusion Gael Song deserved; Lawless raises the level once more to write a memorable story to close a series that is perfect if you are looking for fantasy rooted in history, and a healthy dose of Vikings. Shauna Lawless is an auto-buy author for me, and this series is the reason for it.
August 16, 2024
I was on the edge of my seat for this entire book. Absolutely loved the character development (especially in the villainous characters!) and the pacing was none stop. The Irish mythology and setting leaks off the page and you feel as though you’re standing right next to the characters.
It was rewarding to see the conclusion of a few overall arcs, but it did feel that this was more of a mid-season finale vs. trilogy conclusion and that took away from the ending for me a little bit. I would have preferred the focus to stay on the current series in some big moments vs. shifting to set up the next. That being said, I CANNOT WAIT for the next series because the setup suggests an explosive culmination.
It was rewarding to see the conclusion of a few overall arcs, but it did feel that this was more of a mid-season finale vs. trilogy conclusion and that took away from the ending for me a little bit. I would have preferred the focus to stay on the current series in some big moments vs. shifting to set up the next. That being said, I CANNOT WAIT for the next series because the setup suggests an explosive culmination.
February 17, 2025
This is a great series. Really love it and the characters and the scheming, battles, magic…. Also excited there are more books coming in this world because it’s a great world! 4.25 stars
July 8, 2024
I honestly do not know how Lawless does it, this series gets better and better with each book and this was the perfect ending to the trilogy.
If you have read the previous two books in the series, The Land of the Living and the Dead picks up almost a decade after the end of the second book and throws you right back into the characters that you know and love (as well as the characters you love to hate, I am looking at you Gormflaith) and the twists and turns begin.
As with the entire Gael Song series, this is a slow burn and is more character driven than action driven (although there is a fair amount of action in this installment) but it is perfectly paced for the story that you are pulled in from the first few pages and it is impossible to put down.
I never want to give anything away for this series and will say no more given it is a third / final book in a series but I cannot recommend this highly enough. Do yourself a favour and pick up this series!
If you have read the previous two books in the series, The Land of the Living and the Dead picks up almost a decade after the end of the second book and throws you right back into the characters that you know and love (as well as the characters you love to hate, I am looking at you Gormflaith) and the twists and turns begin.
As with the entire Gael Song series, this is a slow burn and is more character driven than action driven (although there is a fair amount of action in this installment) but it is perfectly paced for the story that you are pulled in from the first few pages and it is impossible to put down.
I never want to give anything away for this series and will say no more given it is a third / final book in a series but I cannot recommend this highly enough. Do yourself a favour and pick up this series!
January 28, 2025
4.25 or 4.5, I'm still processing.
An amazing end to a wonderful trilogy. This book wrapped things up well while still leaving things open-ended enough that we'll be able to get more books set in this world. I maintain that Lawless has achieved the perfect balance of magic and politics. This type of historical fiction lends itself so well to a magic system, so much so that at times it's hard to remember that magic wasn't actual real during this time. It just *feels* like it should have been! The characters in this series are so well-written, and I love how Lawless unabashedly made Gormflaith absolutely unhinged. It was so easy to hate her, but at the same time I found her so compelling. Fodla was a great foil to her, and I loved her so much. Overall, this book really nailed the landing and I am so looking forward to more Gael Song books!
An amazing end to a wonderful trilogy. This book wrapped things up well while still leaving things open-ended enough that we'll be able to get more books set in this world. I maintain that Lawless has achieved the perfect balance of magic and politics. This type of historical fiction lends itself so well to a magic system, so much so that at times it's hard to remember that magic wasn't actual real during this time. It just *feels* like it should have been! The characters in this series are so well-written, and I love how Lawless unabashedly made Gormflaith absolutely unhinged. It was so easy to hate her, but at the same time I found her so compelling. Fodla was a great foil to her, and I loved her so much. Overall, this book really nailed the landing and I am so looking forward to more Gael Song books!
July 4, 2025
My goodness that was intense!
January 26, 2025
I don’t really have any critical feedback for this series- this was a wonderful reading experience. The ending to this trilogy was so emotional and satisfying. Some of the characters’ journeys were wrapped up and some are still up in the air. I am happy to hear that there will be an era 2, I need more of Lawless’s brilliant storytelling. There’s a certain character I’ve been really interested in from the beginning and I’m excited that she may likely be at the forefront of the next trilogy. I also highly recommend the audiobooks, each narrator did a beautiful job at bringing these characters to life.
September 15, 2024
Oh wow…. Now that’s how you end a trilogy.. Book 3 of The Gael Song series exceeded my expectations in every way. Shauna brings historical fiction, mythology & fantasy together in this series and the final instalment is everything that you want to bring closure to a story.
I won’t go into the plot because I don’t want to spoil anything if you haven’t read the first two books (go read them!) but if you enjoy books with multiple POVs, political intrigue and vicious double crosses, savage battles between the Irish and the Vikings, morally grey (and frankly fairly twisted and cruel) protagonists, all culminating in one of Ireland’s most brutal battles, pick up The Land of the Living and the Dead.
Shauna’s ability to create some of the fiercest and strongest female protagonists is one of my favourite aspects of this series. Gormflaith and Fódla are two of the best written characters I’ve come across in a long while and their stories will stay with me.
The ending made me bawl but I’m glad Shauna chose the ending she did for the characters and she’s left the door open for the next generation of characters to carry the mantle of their elders.
Thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the arc. The Land of the Living and the Dead is out now. 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I won’t go into the plot because I don’t want to spoil anything if you haven’t read the first two books (go read them!) but if you enjoy books with multiple POVs, political intrigue and vicious double crosses, savage battles between the Irish and the Vikings, morally grey (and frankly fairly twisted and cruel) protagonists, all culminating in one of Ireland’s most brutal battles, pick up The Land of the Living and the Dead.
Shauna’s ability to create some of the fiercest and strongest female protagonists is one of my favourite aspects of this series. Gormflaith and Fódla are two of the best written characters I’ve come across in a long while and their stories will stay with me.
The ending made me bawl but I’m glad Shauna chose the ending she did for the characters and she’s left the door open for the next generation of characters to carry the mantle of their elders.
Thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the arc. The Land of the Living and the Dead is out now. 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 11, 2025
The end of this book had me instantly googling future books 😂 thank god there are two more because this ending punched me in the face and send me reeling into last week.
This series has been so enjoyable! I have laughed, I have cried, I have raged and almost thrown my book across the room….
The plot development in this book just kept going and going, the first book was definitely a slower start, more world and character development and this one was just action packed!
I can’t say much more without spoilers but I had such a fun time reading this and watching the story unfold. There are a lot of deaths in this book, some I was happy with and some that ripped out my heart - so be prepared 🙏
This series has been so enjoyable! I have laughed, I have cried, I have raged and almost thrown my book across the room….
The plot development in this book just kept going and going, the first book was definitely a slower start, more world and character development and this one was just action packed!
I can’t say much more without spoilers but I had such a fun time reading this and watching the story unfold. There are a lot of deaths in this book, some I was happy with and some that ripped out my heart - so be prepared 🙏
November 19, 2024
I am a shell of a human being after reading this. Don’t talk to me
December 5, 2024
I love this series so much. I will say - I absolutely loved the novellas, and while they're not *truly* necessary to complete this trilogy, they make the trilogy SO much more satisfying.
The Gael Song trilogy is so great for so many reasons. While I know that these types of immortals were not created by Shauna herself, she has really brought them and their dynamics to life. This book has the intrigue of politics without feeling overwhelmingly so, and enough action happens that it doesn't just feel like people having political conversations over war tables. I am obsessed with Fodla and I love to hate Gormflaith, as any reader of this series will. This series will be unsatisfying for those who want their series tied up with a bow at the end, but that's half the fun! Cannot wait to read more from Shauna.
Thank you to Head of Zeus and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The Gael Song trilogy is so great for so many reasons. While I know that these types of immortals were not created by Shauna herself, she has really brought them and their dynamics to life. This book has the intrigue of politics without feeling overwhelmingly so, and enough action happens that it doesn't just feel like people having political conversations over war tables. I am obsessed with Fodla and I love to hate Gormflaith, as any reader of this series will. This series will be unsatisfying for those who want their series tied up with a bow at the end, but that's half the fun! Cannot wait to read more from Shauna.
Thank you to Head of Zeus and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 29, 2024
An excellent use of History and Mythology to produce a fabulously rich read. Shauna Lawless has taken Ancient Irish History, late 10th century and early 11th century, added the Irish Mythologies of the Tuatha De Danann and the Fomorian to the battles of the Irish King Brian Boru attempt to unified Ireland and defeat the Danes aka the Vikings, at the same time. Lawless has written the mysterious historical figure of Gormflaith, Brian Boru wife, as a member of the Fomorian and her actions guided by an attempt to defeat the Tuatha De Danann. It is a fascinating trilogy that has moved into one of my all-time great reads. This book's ending had all the feels, plus gives hope that there might be more stories to tell. I certainly hope so.
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