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The Sword of Light: A Novel
Will fabled objects of myth be enough to defend their emerald isle?
The mystical Tuatha Dé Danann walked the hills of ancient Ireland long before the first Rí, or king, ever ruled the land. Before they stepped back to make way for mankind, they left behind objects of incredible power that would reveal themselves when most needed. When invaders from the North arrive, it feels like the moment that has long been foretold has finally come.
Deidre, the daughter of a Rí, and Kylin, the son of a Northman who found peace and a home in Éire, have little in common, until they begin seeing visions of these fantastical gifts. The revelation that a traitor exists among the many Irish kings forces them to work together using their newfound powers in defense of their homeland. As all they hold dear comes under threat, it may be more than just dreams that the two begin to share…
The mystical Tuatha Dé Danann walked the hills of ancient Ireland long before the first Rí, or king, ever ruled the land. Before they stepped back to make way for mankind, they left behind objects of incredible power that would reveal themselves when most needed. When invaders from the North arrive, it feels like the moment that has long been foretold has finally come.
Deidre, the daughter of a Rí, and Kylin, the son of a Northman who found peace and a home in Éire, have little in common, until they begin seeing visions of these fantastical gifts. The revelation that a traitor exists among the many Irish kings forces them to work together using their newfound powers in defense of their homeland. As all they hold dear comes under threat, it may be more than just dreams that the two begin to share…
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
67 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
About the author
Heather Graham
584 books6,946 followersAlso published as Heather Graham Pozzessere and Shannon Drake.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Heather Graham majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. After a stint of several years in dinner theater, back-up vocals, and bartending, she stayed home after the birth of her third child and began to write, working on short horror stories and romances. After some trial and error, she sold her first book, WHEN NEXT WE LOVE, in 1982 and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, romantic suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult, and Christmas holiday fare. She wrote the launch books for the Dell's Ecstasy Supreme line, Silhouette's Shadows, and for Harlequin's mainstream fiction imprint, Mira Books.
Heather was a founding member of the Florida Romance Writers chapter of RWA and, since 1999, has hosted the Romantic Times Vampire Ball, with all revenues going directly to children's charity.
She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages, and to have been honored with awards frorn Waldenbooks. B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times, and more. She has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, People, and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including local television and Entertainment Tonight.
Heather loves travel and anything have to do with the water, and is a certitified scuba diver. Married since high school graduation and the mother of five, her greatest love in life remains her family, but she also believes her career has been an incredible gift, and she is grateful every day to be doing something that she loves so very much for a living.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Heather Graham majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. After a stint of several years in dinner theater, back-up vocals, and bartending, she stayed home after the birth of her third child and began to write, working on short horror stories and romances. After some trial and error, she sold her first book, WHEN NEXT WE LOVE, in 1982 and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, romantic suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult, and Christmas holiday fare. She wrote the launch books for the Dell's Ecstasy Supreme line, Silhouette's Shadows, and for Harlequin's mainstream fiction imprint, Mira Books.
Heather was a founding member of the Florida Romance Writers chapter of RWA and, since 1999, has hosted the Romantic Times Vampire Ball, with all revenues going directly to children's charity.
She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages, and to have been honored with awards frorn Waldenbooks. B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times, and more. She has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, People, and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including local television and Entertainment Tonight.
Heather loves travel and anything have to do with the water, and is a certitified scuba diver. Married since high school graduation and the mother of five, her greatest love in life remains her family, but she also believes her career has been an incredible gift, and she is grateful every day to be doing something that she loves so very much for a living.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 11, 2025
2.75 🌟 Heather Graham used to be an author I gravitated towards when I was younger, for historical romances under that same name, as well as under her pen name, Shannon Drake. Not sure at what point I strayed, but it's been several years since I've read her work. I thought I would like this one, but I really struggled to get into this audiobook.
There were battles and enemies who weren't really enemies who allied together on a shared quest for magical objects. The quest was pretty easy, in my estimation, too easy. The story had lots and lots of repetition - of phrases and recounting.
The premise was good, but for me it just lacked a strong connection.
ALC courtesy of NetGalley
There were battles and enemies who weren't really enemies who allied together on a shared quest for magical objects. The quest was pretty easy, in my estimation, too easy. The story had lots and lots of repetition - of phrases and recounting.
The premise was good, but for me it just lacked a strong connection.
ALC courtesy of NetGalley
August 13, 2025
3 stars ⭐️
The Sword of Light is about two young warriors who go on a quest after finding magical items to protect their lands from a traitor and a war coming. Not only do Deidre and Kylin have to deal with these new found objects and protecting their homes, but they also have shared dreams that lead them to clues on how to do so.
This book is a bit hard to rate for me. I would say the biggest problem I had was with the writing. There were many exclamation marks throughout the dialogue and descriptions that just kept taking me out of the story. The characters also didn’t really speak like actual people to me a lot of the time.
I did like the world building and the romance wasn’t too rushed. The quests they had to go on were pretty nice to read about and realizing they like each other along the way was sweet.
Overall, the writing style just wasn’t my favorite but I think others will enjoy this story. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an e-ARC to read and review! This review is my own opinion.
Content warnings (may have spoilers!):
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War, violence, death, murder, & sexual content (Chapter 10, 15, and the epilogue have closed door fade-to-black scenes. It’s not very descriptive or explicit to me).
The Sword of Light is about two young warriors who go on a quest after finding magical items to protect their lands from a traitor and a war coming. Not only do Deidre and Kylin have to deal with these new found objects and protecting their homes, but they also have shared dreams that lead them to clues on how to do so.
This book is a bit hard to rate for me. I would say the biggest problem I had was with the writing. There were many exclamation marks throughout the dialogue and descriptions that just kept taking me out of the story. The characters also didn’t really speak like actual people to me a lot of the time.
I did like the world building and the romance wasn’t too rushed. The quests they had to go on were pretty nice to read about and realizing they like each other along the way was sweet.
Overall, the writing style just wasn’t my favorite but I think others will enjoy this story. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an e-ARC to read and review! This review is my own opinion.
Content warnings (may have spoilers!):
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
War, violence, death, murder, & sexual content (Chapter 10, 15, and the epilogue have closed door fade-to-black scenes. It’s not very descriptive or explicit to me).
September 7, 2025
I rounded this book up to 4 stars, though I feel 3.5 is a better choice. I liked the premise of the story, but it wasn't my favorite. I've read Heather Graham for years. She writes a variety of genres, though mostly romance. This one is a fantasy. I sorta feel, she's jumped on the romantasy bandwagon.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Heather Graham for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Heather Graham for the opportunity to read this ARC.
October 9, 2025
Deidre, the daughter of a Rí, is a proud and determined warrior, when she is given a magical sword during an attack by Northmen, she wields it with success and realizes it is the mythical Sword of Light. When she dreams of a great battle to come, she is then tasked with defending her homeland and uncovering a traitor among the Irish kings. This begins a quest to find gifts from Tuatha Dé Danann, which are reported to help the people of Éire during times of great need. She is joined by Kylin, the son of a Northman who married an Irish lass. She doesn’t trust him, but as they spend time together, she learns that they share a bond and feelings begin to grow.
Kylin, a fierce warrior and ally to the Rí, also dreams of a battle to come and joins Deidre on this perilous quest. He knows she doesn’t trust him because his father came to Éire from the North, but Kylin loves his home and will do whatever it necessary to protect it and Deidre. He proves himself time and again to her, and slowly their relationship develops into mutual respect each other's strengths and skills, but deeper feelings will have to wait until they complete their quest.
I was excited to read this book as it is a blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance, drawing on Celtic mythology and Irish legend, I was also looking forward to finally reading a Heather Graham book. I liked the story, but I was hoping for more, more magic, more intrigue and more passion, and while the world-building and premise are compelling, I wasn’t pulled into the story and found it to be a bit repetitive and slow moving. While reading the book wasn’t the experience I was hoping for, I also listened to the audio edition and found that experience much more enjoyable, the narrator Alana Kerr Collins read the story in a lovely Irish lilt and without being distracted by seeing choppy text and excessive punctuation, the story did seem to flow better. Overall, the book isn’t really what I was hoping for, but it was interesting and if given the choice, I would pick the audio edition over the printed edition.
3 stars for print edition / 3.5 rounded up to 4 for audio edition
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
Kylin, a fierce warrior and ally to the Rí, also dreams of a battle to come and joins Deidre on this perilous quest. He knows she doesn’t trust him because his father came to Éire from the North, but Kylin loves his home and will do whatever it necessary to protect it and Deidre. He proves himself time and again to her, and slowly their relationship develops into mutual respect each other's strengths and skills, but deeper feelings will have to wait until they complete their quest.
I was excited to read this book as it is a blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance, drawing on Celtic mythology and Irish legend, I was also looking forward to finally reading a Heather Graham book. I liked the story, but I was hoping for more, more magic, more intrigue and more passion, and while the world-building and premise are compelling, I wasn’t pulled into the story and found it to be a bit repetitive and slow moving. While reading the book wasn’t the experience I was hoping for, I also listened to the audio edition and found that experience much more enjoyable, the narrator Alana Kerr Collins read the story in a lovely Irish lilt and without being distracted by seeing choppy text and excessive punctuation, the story did seem to flow better. Overall, the book isn’t really what I was hoping for, but it was interesting and if given the choice, I would pick the audio edition over the printed edition.
3 stars for print edition / 3.5 rounded up to 4 for audio edition
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
December 25, 2025
I thought this would be a good fantasy story. But instead it’s a bad romance story. Did not finish. Life is too short to read a bad book.
January 28, 2026
This one redlines my tripe-o-meter.
July 6, 2025
I'm struggling a bit with how to rate this standalone.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, the world, and the characters. I thought Deidre and Kylin were well matched, their journey to receive ancient gifts and save their land was interesting, and It was very sweet how they respected each other and worked well together. I think what really held me back was the writing style: it felt very matter of fact and staccato to me, and there was an excessive amount of exclamation marks. I had to break this book up into multiple reading sessions to get through, as the style really wasn't for me.
Thanks to the author, HarperCollins, and NetGalley for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, the world, and the characters. I thought Deidre and Kylin were well matched, their journey to receive ancient gifts and save their land was interesting, and It was very sweet how they respected each other and worked well together. I think what really held me back was the writing style: it felt very matter of fact and staccato to me, and there was an excessive amount of exclamation marks. I had to break this book up into multiple reading sessions to get through, as the style really wasn't for me.
Thanks to the author, HarperCollins, and NetGalley for the opportunity to receive and read this ARC.
October 17, 2025
I would like to thank the publisher for sending me an audio-arc in exchange for an honest review through NetGalley.
Deidre is the daughter of a Rí – a king of Éire. Kylin is the son of a Northman living in Éire. When the two of them begin having visions of objects of incredible power, they embark on a quest to find them together. But when it’s discovered that there is a traitor among the Irish kings, Deidre and Kylin will have to work together to defend their homeland with the use of their newfound power… for the objects they are sent to find were left by the Tuatha Dé Dannan, and only with their help will they be able to protect the people and the land of Ireland.
This was fantasy with a bit of a twist as this does take place in Ireland, but they have access to magical artifacts left by the Tuatha Dé Dannan – mystical beings/gods/fairies of Irish folklore. I loved the inclusion of the magic and the way that the belief of Christianity was brought into this and instead of saying one was wrong and the other was right it’s talked about as a it could be this, it could be that, we don’t know, but this is what we know. It was an interesting approach, and I did appreciate it since it’s usually one or the other that I see in books. When it comes to Deidre and Kylin I appreciate that they aren’t enemies or friends but allies who just don’t trust one another, and it’s their quest that brings them together through their dreams – both the ones they have that are providing their clues on their quest and the ones they share with one another. I loved the way that the magic was explained as it wasn’t something that everyone has access to but only can be used through these specific objects. I appreciated the fact that this book actually steered away from the fantastical fantasy with magic and elves/faeries and kept things based within reality. I also liked the slow-burn romance and the fact that we have to wait until the very end for us to get something satisfactory out of it. Overall, this was fun and exciting, but I do with that we got a little bit more out of the quest as it seemed just a dash too easy at times. Definitely recommend the audiobook as there was no way I would’ve been able to properly pronounce any of the names.
Deidre is the daughter of a Rí – a king of Éire. Kylin is the son of a Northman living in Éire. When the two of them begin having visions of objects of incredible power, they embark on a quest to find them together. But when it’s discovered that there is a traitor among the Irish kings, Deidre and Kylin will have to work together to defend their homeland with the use of their newfound power… for the objects they are sent to find were left by the Tuatha Dé Dannan, and only with their help will they be able to protect the people and the land of Ireland.
This was fantasy with a bit of a twist as this does take place in Ireland, but they have access to magical artifacts left by the Tuatha Dé Dannan – mystical beings/gods/fairies of Irish folklore. I loved the inclusion of the magic and the way that the belief of Christianity was brought into this and instead of saying one was wrong and the other was right it’s talked about as a it could be this, it could be that, we don’t know, but this is what we know. It was an interesting approach, and I did appreciate it since it’s usually one or the other that I see in books. When it comes to Deidre and Kylin I appreciate that they aren’t enemies or friends but allies who just don’t trust one another, and it’s their quest that brings them together through their dreams – both the ones they have that are providing their clues on their quest and the ones they share with one another. I loved the way that the magic was explained as it wasn’t something that everyone has access to but only can be used through these specific objects. I appreciated the fact that this book actually steered away from the fantastical fantasy with magic and elves/faeries and kept things based within reality. I also liked the slow-burn romance and the fact that we have to wait until the very end for us to get something satisfactory out of it. Overall, this was fun and exciting, but I do with that we got a little bit more out of the quest as it seemed just a dash too easy at times. Definitely recommend the audiobook as there was no way I would’ve been able to properly pronounce any of the names.
June 18, 2025
Deidre, the daughter of a Ri, receives a mysterious sword amid a skirmish with Northmen invaders. She learns it is one of the Tuatha De Danann’s four sacred gifts that exist to protect their emerald isle. Kylin, the son of a Northman and Irish mother, comes to assist Deidre in the skirmish. The two warriors share a dream about a devastating battle yet to come. They set off to find the other sacred gifts while preparing their people for the upcoming invasion. Can Deidre and Kylin find the traitor among their people? And will they successfully thwart a greedy jarl from invading their beloved homeland?
THE SWORD OF LIGHT is a standalone novel by Heather Graham, also known under the alias of Shannon Drake. I am no stranger to this author’s works, both historical romances and romantic suspense. They do tend to be either a hit or a miss with me. Unfortunately, this one is a miss.
I could only read this book in short bursts to keep my mind from wandering and from growing bored. Which is sad because 1) I love stories about ancient Ireland and 2) I felt the story’s concept held such promise. I believe if the author broke it up into a four-book series with each book centering on a sacred gift, it would have been better. Perhaps include the reason and history behind each gift’s creation.
It felt that Kylin and Deidre found the sacred gifts too swiftly to be believable. I would have loved it if the author had touched more of the Tuatha De Danann, more specifically the ones who visited Deidre and Kylin. The other problem I had with the story is with the dialogue. Some parts came off as stiff and disjointed, while other areas became repetitious.
Honestly, I could not stand Deidre. I understand she is supposed to be a fierce female warrior (someone like Xena or even Boudicca) – one who can stand her own against men. However, that is not the impression I got from her. From her demeanor to the way she interacted with people (and yes, the way she was written) it all felt forced, like telling rather than showing.
THE SWORD OF LIGHT is a standalone novel by Heather Graham, also known under the alias of Shannon Drake. I am no stranger to this author’s works, both historical romances and romantic suspense. They do tend to be either a hit or a miss with me. Unfortunately, this one is a miss.
I could only read this book in short bursts to keep my mind from wandering and from growing bored. Which is sad because 1) I love stories about ancient Ireland and 2) I felt the story’s concept held such promise. I believe if the author broke it up into a four-book series with each book centering on a sacred gift, it would have been better. Perhaps include the reason and history behind each gift’s creation.
It felt that Kylin and Deidre found the sacred gifts too swiftly to be believable. I would have loved it if the author had touched more of the Tuatha De Danann, more specifically the ones who visited Deidre and Kylin. The other problem I had with the story is with the dialogue. Some parts came off as stiff and disjointed, while other areas became repetitious.
Honestly, I could not stand Deidre. I understand she is supposed to be a fierce female warrior (someone like Xena or even Boudicca) – one who can stand her own against men. However, that is not the impression I got from her. From her demeanor to the way she interacted with people (and yes, the way she was written) it all felt forced, like telling rather than showing.
October 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐'s rounded up
I finished this book a few days ago, but I needed time to process and stare at the wall for a little while. I haven't read Heather Graham in a really long time so I had no real expectations when I asked to read this book on NetGalley. However, it took me a ride that I did not want to get off. I loved the ancient gods that were helping both Deidre (FMC) and Kylin (MMC).
There is found family in this and hesitant allies to lovers between the FMC and MMC. Kylin's father had long ago come to Rí's island of Éire. Seeking a safe place to live and not be sent out to commit terrible crimes in the name of power. This gives you so many characters and the personalities are distinct. You are guessing at who the traitor is until the very end because you jump from thinking it's one person. I was honestly not expecting who the traitor had turned out to be.
I loved the chemistry and the slow coming of Deidre to trusting Kylin. There are magical objects that "Shimmer" a female ancient god that helps lead Deidre to some of the magical objects, and Kylin has a male ancient god who also shimmered but did not give him a name.
Deidre is a fierce FMC, who will run head first into a fight to protect those that she holds dear. Their two fathers are such nice men who have complete faith and trust in each other and their children.
Alana Kerr Collins did a great job at narrating the story. I was so wrapped up in it that I completed it nearly in one sitting and then had to start it again as soon as I woke up to finish the story. I definitely would recommend this to anyone that wants a great story of overcoming challenges and standing together united to face down the threats. There is some fade to black spice but I definitely would not call this a spicy book but that did not diminish it at all.
Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Audio, Harlequin Trade Publishing | MIRA for allowing me to read this in advance of release day. Make sure you check this out on October 14, 2025. All of my opinions are my own.
I finished this book a few days ago, but I needed time to process and stare at the wall for a little while. I haven't read Heather Graham in a really long time so I had no real expectations when I asked to read this book on NetGalley. However, it took me a ride that I did not want to get off. I loved the ancient gods that were helping both Deidre (FMC) and Kylin (MMC).
There is found family in this and hesitant allies to lovers between the FMC and MMC. Kylin's father had long ago come to Rí's island of Éire. Seeking a safe place to live and not be sent out to commit terrible crimes in the name of power. This gives you so many characters and the personalities are distinct. You are guessing at who the traitor is until the very end because you jump from thinking it's one person. I was honestly not expecting who the traitor had turned out to be.
I loved the chemistry and the slow coming of Deidre to trusting Kylin. There are magical objects that "Shimmer" a female ancient god that helps lead Deidre to some of the magical objects, and Kylin has a male ancient god who also shimmered but did not give him a name.
Deidre is a fierce FMC, who will run head first into a fight to protect those that she holds dear. Their two fathers are such nice men who have complete faith and trust in each other and their children.
Alana Kerr Collins did a great job at narrating the story. I was so wrapped up in it that I completed it nearly in one sitting and then had to start it again as soon as I woke up to finish the story. I definitely would recommend this to anyone that wants a great story of overcoming challenges and standing together united to face down the threats. There is some fade to black spice but I definitely would not call this a spicy book but that did not diminish it at all.
Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Audio, Harlequin Trade Publishing | MIRA for allowing me to read this in advance of release day. Make sure you check this out on October 14, 2025. All of my opinions are my own.
June 10, 2025
Had the name Heather Graham not been on this book, I doubt I would have read it. It is a departure from the norm for me but it is also a departure from the Krewe and other books we know Heather for. As I started to read a book with no Krewe, I kept telling myself how very different this book is for Heather. Then it hit me, this book may take place in another time, it still has all the elements I have come to appreciate in a Heather Graham book.
The FMC is strong and fierce and loving and the MMC is equally strong and fierce and unafraid to learn from her the value of mercy. The side characters were so much more than simply extras, they had their own loves and battles and wisdom. We have Cillian, the trusted advisor, and Aidan, the double brother, who falls for Kyrin's sister and we have a man in need of a swift kick for thinking of woman as chattel. Deidre and Kylin compliment each other and remind me a little of the Krewe leaders with a lot more magic. Speaking of magic, our characters have great gifts and a guide to help them see more than the battle but the greater magic of love. We have action aplenty as Deidre and Kylin are constantly being set upon by enemies. We have a mystery that will keep you guessing until the last, especially, if you are like me and believe he who is hateful is also bad. That same concept is part of the character's thought as well. The story had a truly beautiful ending that befit the stunning descriptions of Ireland that Heather painted with her words.
I hope Heather has more in store for the Krewe because they are my favorite but until she does, this book is well worth the read. It has all the elements of a Krewe story - strong characters with flaws, mystery, action and a little bit of something else. If you are new to Heather Graham and choice the book because the sub genre is a favorite, you may find a new author to enjoy.
The FMC is strong and fierce and loving and the MMC is equally strong and fierce and unafraid to learn from her the value of mercy. The side characters were so much more than simply extras, they had their own loves and battles and wisdom. We have Cillian, the trusted advisor, and Aidan, the double brother, who falls for Kyrin's sister and we have a man in need of a swift kick for thinking of woman as chattel. Deidre and Kylin compliment each other and remind me a little of the Krewe leaders with a lot more magic. Speaking of magic, our characters have great gifts and a guide to help them see more than the battle but the greater magic of love. We have action aplenty as Deidre and Kylin are constantly being set upon by enemies. We have a mystery that will keep you guessing until the last, especially, if you are like me and believe he who is hateful is also bad. That same concept is part of the character's thought as well. The story had a truly beautiful ending that befit the stunning descriptions of Ireland that Heather painted with her words.
I hope Heather has more in store for the Krewe because they are my favorite but until she does, this book is well worth the read. It has all the elements of a Krewe story - strong characters with flaws, mystery, action and a little bit of something else. If you are new to Heather Graham and choice the book because the sub genre is a favorite, you may find a new author to enjoy.
October 13, 2025
The Sword of Light is a standalone novel by Heather Graham. The story revolves around two warriors, who are on a quest to protect their lands from a traitor. Deidre, the daughter of a Rí, and Kylin, the son of a Northman at home in Éire. Deidre and Kylin are our heroes, and in a short time they begin to get fantastical objects, gifted weapons with magical properties. They learn that it is one of the Tuatha De Danann’s four sacred gifts that exist to protect their emerald isle.
There is action throughout as Deidre and Kylin are constantly being set upon by enemies. They also shared dreams that would lead them to clues, as to the battles yet to come. The wonderful gifts they get will help guide them, as Deidre, was given a magnificent powerful Sword, and Kylin, receives an amazing Cauldron, and they both discover the stone pebbles. In time, they begin to fall in love, as they work closely together to uncover a traitor in their midst, and protect their people in the upcoming invasion.
I really found myself loving Deidre and Kylin, as they were perfectly matched. The chemistry between them was awesome, especially with the magic of love. I also liked Declan, Cillian and others who were willing to help. I did enjoy Aidan, who was Deidre’s brother, and a very good leader.
The Sword of Light was a very good read, The action and adventure were fast paced and exciting. The Sword of Light was very well written by Heather Graham. Deidre and Kylin ended up to a terrific couple, despite all the terrible danger they faced. I suggest you read The Sword of Light.
Barb
There is action throughout as Deidre and Kylin are constantly being set upon by enemies. They also shared dreams that would lead them to clues, as to the battles yet to come. The wonderful gifts they get will help guide them, as Deidre, was given a magnificent powerful Sword, and Kylin, receives an amazing Cauldron, and they both discover the stone pebbles. In time, they begin to fall in love, as they work closely together to uncover a traitor in their midst, and protect their people in the upcoming invasion.
I really found myself loving Deidre and Kylin, as they were perfectly matched. The chemistry between them was awesome, especially with the magic of love. I also liked Declan, Cillian and others who were willing to help. I did enjoy Aidan, who was Deidre’s brother, and a very good leader.
The Sword of Light was a very good read, The action and adventure were fast paced and exciting. The Sword of Light was very well written by Heather Graham. Deidre and Kylin ended up to a terrific couple, despite all the terrible danger they faced. I suggest you read The Sword of Light.
Barb
November 2, 2025
*Read through NetGalley*
I listened to this one on audio, and the story really caught my attention at first. The idea of a magical quest tied to ancient myths sounded right up my alley, and the narrator, Alana Kerr Collins, did a wonderful job. Her Irish accent made the story feel warm and immersive, and I think her performance made the book easier to enjoy.
Even so, I had a hard time staying fully hooked. Some parts felt slow while others wrapped up too quickly, so the pacing didn’t always flow smoothly. I liked Deidre and Kylin as a team, but their journey felt a little too easy at times. I wanted more tension and a stronger sense of adventure. The world itself had a lot of potential, especially with the bits of Irish mythology woven in, but it never quite went as deep as I hoped it would.
The writing style wasn’t quite for me either. Certain phrases and ideas repeated a lot, and the dialogue sometimes sounded a bit stiff. I wanted to connect more with Deidre as a character, but her personality felt a little forced instead of natural.
Overall, I liked the concept and the atmosphere, and the narration really carried it for me. It’s an interesting story with a lot of heart, but I just wished for a little more magic and emotion to pull me in.
I listened to this one on audio, and the story really caught my attention at first. The idea of a magical quest tied to ancient myths sounded right up my alley, and the narrator, Alana Kerr Collins, did a wonderful job. Her Irish accent made the story feel warm and immersive, and I think her performance made the book easier to enjoy.
Even so, I had a hard time staying fully hooked. Some parts felt slow while others wrapped up too quickly, so the pacing didn’t always flow smoothly. I liked Deidre and Kylin as a team, but their journey felt a little too easy at times. I wanted more tension and a stronger sense of adventure. The world itself had a lot of potential, especially with the bits of Irish mythology woven in, but it never quite went as deep as I hoped it would.
The writing style wasn’t quite for me either. Certain phrases and ideas repeated a lot, and the dialogue sometimes sounded a bit stiff. I wanted to connect more with Deidre as a character, but her personality felt a little forced instead of natural.
Overall, I liked the concept and the atmosphere, and the narration really carried it for me. It’s an interesting story with a lot of heart, but I just wished for a little more magic and emotion to pull me in.
July 3, 2025
Deidre and Kylin don't think much of each other until they unexpectedly start having dreams and then gifts bestowed on them from the Tuatha Dé Danann. Determined to protect their people and understanding from their dreams that they need to work together, their perception of each other changes. They fall in love as they work together to uncover a traitor in their midst and protect their people from an upcoming invasion from the Northmen.
This book had a lot of promise, but I feel like it fell a bit short. Story idea and plotline, as well as good masking of the traitor until the very end, was good. I had difficulty with the amount of exclamation points in the story. it reminded me more of child dialogue than adults. Additionally, Deidre and Kylin felt very young and romantically immature in their thoughts, more like what I would have envisioned if the time period put her as a 16 year old and him as 18 years old. I found myself skimming parts of the story.
This book had a lot of promise, but I feel like it fell a bit short. Story idea and plotline, as well as good masking of the traitor until the very end, was good. I had difficulty with the amount of exclamation points in the story. it reminded me more of child dialogue than adults. Additionally, Deidre and Kylin felt very young and romantically immature in their thoughts, more like what I would have envisioned if the time period put her as a 16 year old and him as 18 years old. I found myself skimming parts of the story.
August 7, 2025
The premise of this story is so interesting (Celtic Mythology inspired) and I was ready to love it!
I do think the story is solid along with the world building really took my to a magical place. I do think the characters are interesting but could be developed further in order to really connect to their journeys. Some of the tension felt a bit surface level and I really wanted to dive in deeper to the crux of the issues at hand.
I also am not sure the author's writing is my prefered style. I was thrown off a lot by the punctuation, word choice and even the syntax. It took me a few times to start and stop reading in order to get through the story. There were definitely moments where I almost didn't make it because of this. If the writing takes effort to get through, it definitely takes away from the reading experience.
Thank you to the publisher for an eARC of this book.
I do think the story is solid along with the world building really took my to a magical place. I do think the characters are interesting but could be developed further in order to really connect to their journeys. Some of the tension felt a bit surface level and I really wanted to dive in deeper to the crux of the issues at hand.
I also am not sure the author's writing is my prefered style. I was thrown off a lot by the punctuation, word choice and even the syntax. It took me a few times to start and stop reading in order to get through the story. There were definitely moments where I almost didn't make it because of this. If the writing takes effort to get through, it definitely takes away from the reading experience.
Thank you to the publisher for an eARC of this book.
Read
October 8, 2025I really liked the narrator’s accent in the audiobook — it added a nice touch — but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to keep me hanging on.
This year, I’m learning to let go. If I’m not enjoying a book, whether it’s an ARC or not, I’ve decided to stop and move on. Maybe if it were another time or mood, I would’ve liked this more.
I just couldn’t connect with the characters or get invested in the story, and I found myself getting bored. The premise was interesting, but also a little confusing at times. Overall, it felt a bit monotonous for me, and I couldn’t find anyone to really root for.
That said, this might just be a “me” thing. Please still give it a try — it might be your cup of tea.
The rating I posted on NetGalley isn’t accurate; I only added it because my review wouldn’t go through without a star rating.
This year, I’m learning to let go. If I’m not enjoying a book, whether it’s an ARC or not, I’ve decided to stop and move on. Maybe if it were another time or mood, I would’ve liked this more.
I just couldn’t connect with the characters or get invested in the story, and I found myself getting bored. The premise was interesting, but also a little confusing at times. Overall, it felt a bit monotonous for me, and I couldn’t find anyone to really root for.
That said, this might just be a “me” thing. Please still give it a try — it might be your cup of tea.
The rating I posted on NetGalley isn’t accurate; I only added it because my review wouldn’t go through without a star rating.
September 9, 2025
3 🌟
I am not so sure how I want to rate this book. I liked the story and I thought Deirdre and Kylin had a good chemistry (albeit a little immature) and that their travels together were interesting. I really only struggled with the writing style. There was so much prose and not a lot of talking, especially at the beginning of the book, and there was not a lot of emotion in the writing. It actually really took me out of the story.
I liked how they kept the traitor's identity a secret until the end of the book, and I think with some editing this could have been a really great read.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to reas early and share my thoughts.
I am not so sure how I want to rate this book. I liked the story and I thought Deirdre and Kylin had a good chemistry (albeit a little immature) and that their travels together were interesting. I really only struggled with the writing style. There was so much prose and not a lot of talking, especially at the beginning of the book, and there was not a lot of emotion in the writing. It actually really took me out of the story.
I liked how they kept the traitor's identity a secret until the end of the book, and I think with some editing this could have been a really great read.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to reas early and share my thoughts.
August 17, 2025
Set in the old days of Ireland, after Christianity has been accepted, but the old ways still are strong memories. Deidre and Kylin are gifted weapons with magical properties by the ancient Irish gods or by angels? It doesn’t really matter as their weapons and visions help them root out a traitor and fight the Viking invaders.
The story was interesting, but I just wasn’t caught up in it. It’s a historical fiction laced with traces of magic.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
The story was interesting, but I just wasn’t caught up in it. It’s a historical fiction laced with traces of magic.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
October 29, 2025
While I appreciated the story itself, I found the book pretty hard to listen to. It was very confusing at some parts, especially the first chapter. It felt like the book was written to be twice as long but chopped down too much. There was also quite a bit of repetitive information. It seems like I was getting reminded of something, but it happened like 2 paragraphs ago so idk
I have never read any of the author's other books, so I am not sure if this writing style is kind of standard for her, but I personally did not enjoy it.
I have never read any of the author's other books, so I am not sure if this writing style is kind of standard for her, but I personally did not enjoy it.
July 7, 2025
I loved the characters, Diedre and Kylin, and their chemistry. The action and adventure was fast paced and exciting. I loved the concept of the Tuatha passing along weapons that would help them in battle. I wanted to like this book, but the writing style was a little dry and staccato. I felt like they found the weapons a little too quickly and easily.
All in all it was an interesting read and I'm thankful to the publisher and netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
All in all it was an interesting read and I'm thankful to the publisher and netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 11, 2025
The story had potential but fell flat. Too many repetitive conversations that felt like a means to increase the word count. The book difficult to read which I found unusual for a Heather Graham novel.
I gave the book 3 stars because 1) concept was intriguing 2) the environment was interesting 3) the mythology was fascinating…….. but the delivery was lackluster.
The Sword of Light was really The Dagger of Disappointment !
I gave the book 3 stars because 1) concept was intriguing 2) the environment was interesting 3) the mythology was fascinating…….. but the delivery was lackluster.
The Sword of Light was really The Dagger of Disappointment !
November 17, 2025
Exclamation points.
Obviously, this author does not understand that exclamation points should never, ever be used in novels, no exceptions. Any good writer will tell you to 'use your words'. Exclamation points make silent reading a chore and detracts form the story line. I would have given this story a much higher rating for its uniqueness and entertainment value, if not for the punctuation errors.
Obviously, this author does not understand that exclamation points should never, ever be used in novels, no exceptions. Any good writer will tell you to 'use your words'. Exclamation points make silent reading a chore and detracts form the story line. I would have given this story a much higher rating for its uniqueness and entertainment value, if not for the punctuation errors.
November 18, 2025
3.0⭐️
0🌶️
Listened to the audiobook on Hoopla
Such a pretty cover but I was bored most of the book. Go on quest to get special weapons, fight little war, and twist at the end. It didn’t do anything memorable or special for me. The sword sounds cool but the lore is lacking. Also I have focus issues when listening to a book when I struggle with accent so it is fair to say I could be missing key detail.
0🌶️
Listened to the audiobook on Hoopla
Such a pretty cover but I was bored most of the book. Go on quest to get special weapons, fight little war, and twist at the end. It didn’t do anything memorable or special for me. The sword sounds cool but the lore is lacking. Also I have focus issues when listening to a book when I struggle with accent so it is fair to say I could be missing key detail.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the Arc.
I have been reading Heather Graham for years, so I was so happy to receive an advanced copy of The Sword of Light.
We are following Deidre and Kylin on their quests to find mystical items to help their people as foreign invasions ramp up. This was not my favorite Heather Graham novel, but it was an easy weekend read.
I have been reading Heather Graham for years, so I was so happy to receive an advanced copy of The Sword of Light.
We are following Deidre and Kylin on their quests to find mystical items to help their people as foreign invasions ramp up. This was not my favorite Heather Graham novel, but it was an easy weekend read.
October 18, 2025
I am sorry but I could not get into this book. I don't know if it was because it was an audiobook or the story itself but I couldn't connect to the characters and I definitely was not invested about what the story was about. Most of the time I was confused as to what was going on. I did love the cover. It looked promising but it just fell flat for me.
December 24, 2025
This book is listed as adult fantasy, I thought it was almost a YA book. The story line definately moved forward and you found out what the sword, spear, cauldron, and stone were capabile of. Magic was all around and available to Deidre and Kylin. I wanted to see how the author finished the book. The whole story came across for me as luke warm.
February 6, 2026
This is a magical adventure. Be ready to be taken to the days of old and thrust into a fantasy world. There is an exciting romantic suspense read. It has a brave and fierce FMC and an Apha MMC. They unite together to fight off a large-scale attack on the kingdom with the help of some magical weapons. An interesting read.
September 17, 2025
This is a good romantasy. I did like the main characters, Deidre and Kylin, and they had some chemistry but the story moved a bit slow for me. It took me a bit to really want to read it. I received an advanced readers copy and all opinions are my own.
passed
September 23, 2025This was an interesting plot, but it felt like someone was reading an outline and not a story. It just jumped from plot point to plot point with dialogue thrown in.
It is read in an old English accent so that was fun.
It is read in an old English accent so that was fun.
October 13, 2025
I love Heather Graham’s books but this one was not for me. I struggled trying to listen to the audio. There was just too much going on and I couldn’t connect to the characters or the story. Audiobook provided by Netgalley for a honest review.
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