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Daughters of Nicnevin
Readers of Diana Gabaldon's Outlander will love this fantasy tale of folklore and witchcraft from Scotland.
Mairead and Constance, two powerful witches, meet in the early days of the 1745 Jacobite uprising. While the men of the village are away fighting, the villagers face threats from both the Black Watch and raiders, and the women are confronted with their vulnerability. They enlist the help of Nicnevin, fae queen of witches, to bring men made of earth to life to help protect their village. But just who do they need protection from? And what will happen when the village men return?
Winner of the Independent Publisher of the Year Award, 2024, FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing Independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction & fantasy, and crime / mystery / thriller categories. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tree Press at www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePress
Mairead and Constance, two powerful witches, meet in the early days of the 1745 Jacobite uprising. While the men of the village are away fighting, the villagers face threats from both the Black Watch and raiders, and the women are confronted with their vulnerability. They enlist the help of Nicnevin, fae queen of witches, to bring men made of earth to life to help protect their village. But just who do they need protection from? And what will happen when the village men return?
Winner of the Independent Publisher of the Year Award, 2024, FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing Independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction & fantasy, and crime / mystery / thriller categories. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tree Press at www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePress
336 pages, Hardcover
Published November 11, 2025
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196 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 15, 2025
In a Nutshell: A historical fantasy about two witches in 18th century Scotland. Intriguing characters, loads of magic, many dark scenes though nothing gruesome on page. This absolutely didn’t go the way I thought it would, and I ended up constantly surprised. A slight repetitiveness, some modernisms in dialogues, and a lacklustre romantic subplot were the only major hurdles. A good choice for fans of dark historical stories with a generous dollop of fantasy. The cover and the blurb contains a major spoiler.
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Plot Preview:
There are quite a few historical fiction books with an element of fantasy, where women are shown as witches, and/or are subject to witch hunts. In most of these books, the “witches” are either not witches at all but ordinary women with a talent for healing or an unusual trait, OR they are witches but on the outskirts living solitary lives. Reading a book where the two leads are actual witches AND can really do magic AND are an active part of a community is a refreshing experience.
Bookish Yays:
🔮 The fact that this is a historical fantasy in the true sense of the word. Great history, great fantasy.
🔮 Mairead – strong in an understated way. It is tough to gauge her at first, so watching the unfurling layers of her personality makes for an interesting reading experience.
🔮 Constance. A surprise package in every way. I couldn’t predict most of her arc. A truly challenging character.
🔮 The alternate narrative POVs. Gives us a chance to know both leads well, especially as their nature isn't exactly similar. Using third-person was a good decision.
🔮 Nicnevin, the fairy queen from Scottish folklore. Loved learning about her and also seeing her be a vital part of this narrative.
🔮 The 1740s Scotland setting. New to me in both era and area. Good use of this timeline and location in this fantastical story. I wish I knew the history of this period better as I was initially lost. (ME problem, not BOOK problem.) But as the story progressed, the background of the Jacobites vs. “Red coats” became clear.
🔮 The interlude chapters, coming from various missives and proclamations. A great way of clarifying the historical developments without forcing them into Constance’s and Mairead’s POVs.
🔮 The unpredictability of the storyline. For the most part, I couldn’t guess the direction of the plot. There were constant surprises, and not always in a good way.
🔮 The plot is much darker than I had expected. A few developments left me horrified. It felt like a proper witchy story because of these scenes.
🔮 The cover art. As wild and intriguing as the two leads.
Bookish Okays:
⚔️ A slight repetitiveness in certain situations. These don’t hinder the story, but they do generate the feeling of “Not Again!”
⚔️ One character gets away with a lot. Not sure how I feel about this, though it is handled decently in the book.
Bookish Nays:
🎃 The caption on the cover (which is also present in the official blurb.) Such a huge spoiler! Good thing I didn’t read it until after completing the book. It ruins the surprise.
🎃 The romance subplot focusses too much on physical attraction. Not in a YA way but still annoying. Most of the steamy stuff is just hinted at, but there’s one explicit scene. I didn’t expect a lesbian romance in the story and I don’t think the book required it. The connection between Constance and Mairead didn’t need physical appeal as a justification. This point might not bother readers who love to “ship” leads. (Making it clear that I am not against Sapphic relationships; I just didn’t like its presentation in this book.)
🎃 The dialogues contain some obvious modernisms, which distract while reading. I don’t expect conversations to be written in 18th century English, but obvious anachronisms such as the concepts of “consent” and “self-defence” or phrases like “do the minimum necessary” and “be ready on three” can certainly be avoided.
Overall, I had been expecting a somewhat magical historical fiction but ended up with a strong historical fantasy. Most of the flaws are relatively minor. The layered characters and the darker turn of the plotline kept my attention throughout. What I enjoyed best was the uncertainty of the plot development. Even when I wasn’t a fan of what occurred, I appreciated being kept on the tenterhooks of suspense.
Definitely recommended to fans of dark historical fantasy. This is ‘witchy’ in the true sense of the word.
4 stars.
My thanks to Flame Tree Press for providing the DRC of “Daughters of Nicnevin” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
1745. Kilmartin, Scotland. In the early days of the Jacobite uprising, when the village men are away fighting and the women have to fend for themselves, their families, and their lands, the paths of two powerful witches intersect. Kilmartin resident Constance, married to a local laird and mother of three young kids, isn't aware of her witchy powers whereas Mairead, who passes herself off as a widow, has come to the village on the pretext of work but secretly seeking Constance. When some obstacles come their way, they ask Nicnevin, the Fae Queen of Witches, for help and protection. This decision leads to some unexpected consequences.
The story comes to us in the alternating third-person perspectives of Mairead and Constance.
There are quite a few historical fiction books with an element of fantasy, where women are shown as witches, and/or are subject to witch hunts. In most of these books, the “witches” are either not witches at all but ordinary women with a talent for healing or an unusual trait, OR they are witches but on the outskirts living solitary lives. Reading a book where the two leads are actual witches AND can really do magic AND are an active part of a community is a refreshing experience.
Bookish Yays:
🔮 The fact that this is a historical fantasy in the true sense of the word. Great history, great fantasy.
🔮 Mairead – strong in an understated way. It is tough to gauge her at first, so watching the unfurling layers of her personality makes for an interesting reading experience.
🔮 Constance. A surprise package in every way. I couldn’t predict most of her arc. A truly challenging character.
🔮 The alternate narrative POVs. Gives us a chance to know both leads well, especially as their nature isn't exactly similar. Using third-person was a good decision.
🔮 Nicnevin, the fairy queen from Scottish folklore. Loved learning about her and also seeing her be a vital part of this narrative.
🔮 The 1740s Scotland setting. New to me in both era and area. Good use of this timeline and location in this fantastical story. I wish I knew the history of this period better as I was initially lost. (ME problem, not BOOK problem.) But as the story progressed, the background of the Jacobites vs. “Red coats” became clear.
🔮 The interlude chapters, coming from various missives and proclamations. A great way of clarifying the historical developments without forcing them into Constance’s and Mairead’s POVs.
🔮 The unpredictability of the storyline. For the most part, I couldn’t guess the direction of the plot. There were constant surprises, and not always in a good way.
🔮 The plot is much darker than I had expected. A few developments left me horrified. It felt like a proper witchy story because of these scenes.
🔮 The cover art. As wild and intriguing as the two leads.
Bookish Okays:
⚔️ A slight repetitiveness in certain situations. These don’t hinder the story, but they do generate the feeling of “Not Again!”
⚔️ One character gets away with a lot. Not sure how I feel about this, though it is handled decently in the book.
Bookish Nays:
🎃 The caption on the cover (which is also present in the official blurb.) Such a huge spoiler! Good thing I didn’t read it until after completing the book. It ruins the surprise.
🎃 The romance subplot focusses too much on physical attraction. Not in a YA way but still annoying. Most of the steamy stuff is just hinted at, but there’s one explicit scene. I didn’t expect a lesbian romance in the story and I don’t think the book required it. The connection between Constance and Mairead didn’t need physical appeal as a justification. This point might not bother readers who love to “ship” leads. (Making it clear that I am not against Sapphic relationships; I just didn’t like its presentation in this book.)
🎃 The dialogues contain some obvious modernisms, which distract while reading. I don’t expect conversations to be written in 18th century English, but obvious anachronisms such as the concepts of “consent” and “self-defence” or phrases like “do the minimum necessary” and “be ready on three” can certainly be avoided.
Overall, I had been expecting a somewhat magical historical fiction but ended up with a strong historical fantasy. Most of the flaws are relatively minor. The layered characters and the darker turn of the plotline kept my attention throughout. What I enjoyed best was the uncertainty of the plot development. Even when I wasn’t a fan of what occurred, I appreciated being kept on the tenterhooks of suspense.
Definitely recommended to fans of dark historical fantasy. This is ‘witchy’ in the true sense of the word.
4 stars.
My thanks to Flame Tree Press for providing the DRC of “Daughters of Nicnevin” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
November 24, 2025
Thanks to Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for this free copy of Daughters of Nicnevin by Shona Kinsella. This is a book filled with Scottish folklore, magic, and love. It's fascinating because it's based on real historical facts, but with a speculative fiction / paranormal twist. The magic system is based on Scottish tales such as The Queen of Witches and Faeries. You will also find golem-like creatures, and you'll see how all magic always comes with a price. I loved that it's set in The Scottish Highlands and Inverness. I also appreciate Scots colloquialisms, since I love linguistics! The book layout is engaging because you'll find passages from the Inverness Daily, excerpts of the historical context, and multi-POVs. Overall, I enjoyed this book so much! I'd definitely recommend it!
October 1, 2025
Rating: 2.5/5
I'll start with what I enjoyed: the first chapter is well-constructed. There's just enough mystery and world building to keep the reader engaged without relying on info-dumping. It ends neatly with Mairead basically completing a task she's been working on for the entire chapter. It gets the job done and sticks the landing, which is really all I can ask for when I pick up a new book.
Additionally, Daughters of Nicnevin has a really interesting premise. Two witches request the help of the Fae Queen of Witches to create sentient, humanoid life forms called Albans out of earth and clay after the men of their village abruptly leave to fight in the Jacobite rising, with said two witches falling in love along the way? Cool! Unfortunately, instead of primarily focusing on one element, like the gradual development of Mairead and Constance's relationship, or the history being made around them, or (my personal favorite) the horrific, Frankenstein's monster-esque implications that come with the Albans' existence, it seems like the author took all of these elements and watered them down to lackluster effect.
I was also disappointed in Mairead and Constance's relationship, as stated above. We know they're attracted to each other from the beginning, but I don't think we spend enough time on the two of them actually interacting and getting to know each other to create a believable love story, making a lot of their relationship seem skimmed over. It also borders on abusive as Constance consistently lies to and manipulates Mairead to get her way. This was handled a little too neatly for me, and I would have liked to see Mairead grapple with this more than what was depicted.
Purple prose is my guilty pleasure so I might be biased, but I found the prose in this book to be very bland overall. Despite the beautiful setting and intriguing premise, the style and atmosphere is very simple and functional, only serving to move the story along.
Lastly, magic and the way it's used here began to get frustrating after awhile. I'm fine with a soft magic system (and prefer it more often than not), but sometimes the witches have omnipotent, almost unlimited abilities, while Nicnevin has surprisingly limited powers, and vice versa. There were a number of moments where conflicts that could have been solved interpersonally to aid in character development were waived away with an incantation.
If you're a die-hard historical fiction reader and looking to dip your toe into fantasy, Daughters of Nicnevin might be a good fit for you. I really wish I loved this book, but I finished it wanting more, in the sense that there was a lot of missed potential.
Thanks to Netgalley and Flame Tree Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I'll start with what I enjoyed: the first chapter is well-constructed. There's just enough mystery and world building to keep the reader engaged without relying on info-dumping. It ends neatly with Mairead basically completing a task she's been working on for the entire chapter. It gets the job done and sticks the landing, which is really all I can ask for when I pick up a new book.
Additionally, Daughters of Nicnevin has a really interesting premise. Two witches request the help of the Fae Queen of Witches to create sentient, humanoid life forms called Albans out of earth and clay after the men of their village abruptly leave to fight in the Jacobite rising, with said two witches falling in love along the way? Cool! Unfortunately, instead of primarily focusing on one element, like the gradual development of Mairead and Constance's relationship, or the history being made around them, or (my personal favorite) the horrific, Frankenstein's monster-esque implications that come with the Albans' existence, it seems like the author took all of these elements and watered them down to lackluster effect.
I was also disappointed in Mairead and Constance's relationship, as stated above. We know they're attracted to each other from the beginning, but I don't think we spend enough time on the two of them actually interacting and getting to know each other to create a believable love story, making a lot of their relationship seem skimmed over. It also borders on abusive as Constance consistently lies to and manipulates Mairead to get her way. This was handled a little too neatly for me, and I would have liked to see Mairead grapple with this more than what was depicted.
Purple prose is my guilty pleasure so I might be biased, but I found the prose in this book to be very bland overall. Despite the beautiful setting and intriguing premise, the style and atmosphere is very simple and functional, only serving to move the story along.
Lastly, magic and the way it's used here began to get frustrating after awhile. I'm fine with a soft magic system (and prefer it more often than not), but sometimes the witches have omnipotent, almost unlimited abilities, while Nicnevin has surprisingly limited powers, and vice versa. There were a number of moments where conflicts that could have been solved interpersonally to aid in character development were waived away with an incantation.
If you're a die-hard historical fiction reader and looking to dip your toe into fantasy, Daughters of Nicnevin might be a good fit for you. I really wish I loved this book, but I finished it wanting more, in the sense that there was a lot of missed potential.
Thanks to Netgalley and Flame Tree Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 26, 2025
There's always something very appealing when a good writer mixes fantasy and real history, and Shona Kinsella knows exactly what she is doing. Set during the turbulent times of the Scottish Jacobean uprising with Bonnie Prince Charlie trying to take the throne and raising the highland clans to do it (you might be familiar with this time period from the likes of Outlander), this book does not focus on those battles, but on the women left behind when their men march off to war and death.
In the wake of terrible witch trials, the lot of an independent woman in such times is not an easy one. When the witch Mairead senses a kindred spirit to the north, she travels to Kilmartin, and Constance - a witch who has spend her life hiding her power and trying to fit herself and her life into a nice, neat box. With the men away, and bandits and raiders burning nearby villages, fear rises and they come up with a daring plan to use magic to protect themselves.
Things...do not quite go to plan.
In the wake of terrible witch trials, the lot of an independent woman in such times is not an easy one. When the witch Mairead senses a kindred spirit to the north, she travels to Kilmartin, and Constance - a witch who has spend her life hiding her power and trying to fit herself and her life into a nice, neat box. With the men away, and bandits and raiders burning nearby villages, fear rises and they come up with a daring plan to use magic to protect themselves.
Things...do not quite go to plan.
December 13, 2025
Daughters Of Nicnevin by Shona Consella, A whitch name Maren has a vision that leads her to travel during a dangerous time in Scotland and after many days she gets pointed towards the home of Constance. Constance is another witch who is made her home with her children in a small village suffering from the loss of their men due to the Jacobite uprising when a barn catches on fire the whole town knows Maren is a witch because she uses her power to save the boy inside. Despite what she did the town still was uneasy about having a witch living among them but little do they know Constance is also a witch after a town meeting they vote to let her stay but then there’s another problem it’s time for harvest and they don’t have enough people to do it this is when the two women call on the goddess of witches Niknevin to ask for her help something she agrees to so the town folks one from each family makes a golem from the dirt and soil into men that will not only help harvest but protect their village from Raiders and other people trying to illegally benefit from the uprising. throughout the book there are many hints that Marin is having feelings for Constance and secretly believes constants may feel the same way. And the second half of the book this pseudo romance will be explored and I do believe that was when the downfall of this great story went off the rails. I really was absolutely all in totally enjoying this book and then we got to the bickering the backstabbing etc I want to say I did enjoy most of this book I don’t know why it had to be ruined by a romance and I get it I know they were married women who really were attracted to other women back in the day of the Jackabite uprising but this story was not benefited by its edition. I did find most things were very historically accurate the story was well told but the end just lost me. For one thing it wasn’t even really delve into all that much their emotions and feelings for each other but then I DK I guess it’s me whenever someone is married and I’m supposed to really root for these people who are cheating on this man who is putting his life on the line I just find that icky and distasteful. especially when James was the one who told Maren where to find safety and a place to stay in the beginning of the book. I get it I totally get it things are different back then women were given to men as opposed to choosing them but still he seemed like a nice guy I just don’t like cheating I don’t like it and I don’t like it I’ve read books where the husband is a total jackass and I am down to roof for that type of romance but not when the man doesn’t deserve it. I’m going off on a tangent and it’s not what the book is about just now this is a well told book in the beginning and I didn’t absolutely hate the ending I just didn’t like the cheating the bickering and especially what Constance did. #NetGalley,#TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #Niknevin,#ShonaKinsella,
October 30, 2025
⭐️ 2
In Daughters of Nicnevin, Shona Kinsella tells an alternate-history tale of a small Scottish village, Kilmartin, during the Jacobite rebellion. With most of Kilmartin’s men away fighting on behalf of the Stuarts, the women and children left behind have to find creative ways to survive the winter — with the help of newcomer Mairead and her magic. Mairead has followed a magical summon to the village of Kilmartin, and there she meets Constance, a witch who has hidden her powerful magic from others until now. The two women work together to strengthen the village while their bond with each other grows as well.
The romantic elements of this book really did not work for me. The foundations of Mairead and Constance’s romance are largely glossed over, with the narrative skipping forward months at a time during the start of their relationship. Once they are together, their dynamic is frankly toxic at best — Constance lies, manipulates, and uses magic to influence Mairead’s emotions without her consent. Oh yeah, and she also . Constance was just not a good person and, considering their dynamic was the main focal point of the novel, this made them incredibly difficult to root for.
The rest of the plot was fine, if a bit slow — the concept of creating anthropomorphic, magical mudmen (called Albans) to help out the village was an interesting one, and the tension around keeping them secret from visitors was well-done. However, the village never got into significantly dire straits — there were references to the limited amount of food that was available, and references to roaming raiders that never actually made an appearance, but Mairead and Constance found solutions to their problems easily, which made the stakes feel quite low.
If you are looking for a sapphic historical novel set during witch trials, I would recommend The Mercies instead.
*DISCLAIMER: Thank you to Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for providing an eARC of this book for the purposes of providing an unbiased review.*
In Daughters of Nicnevin, Shona Kinsella tells an alternate-history tale of a small Scottish village, Kilmartin, during the Jacobite rebellion. With most of Kilmartin’s men away fighting on behalf of the Stuarts, the women and children left behind have to find creative ways to survive the winter — with the help of newcomer Mairead and her magic. Mairead has followed a magical summon to the village of Kilmartin, and there she meets Constance, a witch who has hidden her powerful magic from others until now. The two women work together to strengthen the village while their bond with each other grows as well.
The romantic elements of this book really did not work for me. The foundations of Mairead and Constance’s romance are largely glossed over, with the narrative skipping forward months at a time during the start of their relationship. Once they are together, their dynamic is frankly toxic at best — Constance lies, manipulates, and uses magic to influence Mairead’s emotions without her consent. Oh yeah, and she also . Constance was just not a good person and, considering their dynamic was the main focal point of the novel, this made them incredibly difficult to root for.
The rest of the plot was fine, if a bit slow — the concept of creating anthropomorphic, magical mudmen (called Albans) to help out the village was an interesting one, and the tension around keeping them secret from visitors was well-done. However, the village never got into significantly dire straits — there were references to the limited amount of food that was available, and references to roaming raiders that never actually made an appearance, but Mairead and Constance found solutions to their problems easily, which made the stakes feel quite low.
If you are looking for a sapphic historical novel set during witch trials, I would recommend The Mercies instead.
*DISCLAIMER: Thank you to Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for providing an eARC of this book for the purposes of providing an unbiased review.*
August 22, 2025
This is an awkward book for me to review because, while I’m giving it a 3 based on writing, characters and plot … it’s a personal 2.5 for me based on the toxic relationship and lack of world building. So I've settled on a 2.75.
The story is interesting, the idea of a small village of women, children, and some older and infirm men trying to bring in crops, tend a animals, plant, collect wood, water, and more while trying to keep from being victimized by the Black Watch, bandits, and rival armies while their men are off fighting in the Jacobite rebellion — it sounded right up my alley.
Quickly the book stops paying attention to the small details of the day to day life and heads right into the magic which makes sense with them being witches, but it happens so fast and with so little … substance. It’s a wave of a magic wand and everything is fine. The focus then moves to Mairead and Constance falling in love which was … fast, and a little stilted, but given how it all unfolds makes perfect sense and added to the broken nature of Constance and her understanding of love.
And that understanding is toxic. It’s manipulative, harmful, with no care that what she’s doing might cause others harm so long as she gets to keep both her reputation and the woman she wants pliant in her arms. In the end, though, it all must come to a head and when Constance has to face what she’s done … she runs, with Mairead left to handle the fallout and the damage Constance leaves behind. Even when they come together for a reconciliation, Mairead is the one giving, yielding, forgiving while Constance gets to be forgiven … and I didn’t care for it.
Her redemption happens off page in the emptiness between the last chapter and the epilogue, and while it does have a happy ending, it isn’t one that I think Mairead deserved. Constance did actual, provable harm. She hurt people, lied, used her magic against people, killed people … and never really shows remorse. But still she gets to win in the end?
All that said, the writing is good, the pace is a little on the lazy side and there are several repetitive scenes, but it’s a solid book and I read it in one lazy afternoon. I just don’t like the messaging, or Constance, or Constance getting Mairead in the end.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC.
November 15, 2025
Daughters of Nicnevin is a suspenseful fantasy romance set during the darkly atmospheric Jacobite rising of '45. (Readers of the Outlander series will see some familiar names and places in this novel.) Constance is the wife of a man of prominence in their small village. She has spent her life trying to suppress who she is at her core - a witch - and instead fill the ill-fitting role of wife and mother as a bid to keep herself from swinging from a noose like her grandmother before her. In contrast, Mairead has embraced her magic and learned its intricacies as she flutters from village to village posing as a widow to explain her marriage-less status. When their magic draws them together, Constance and Mairead come up with a plan to help protect Constance's village from both starvation and pillaging while the men are off fighting. What happens next is a chain of events that alters Constance, Mairead, and the village they're fighting for in ways that change them forever.
I found Constance's behavior when she realized that she was in danger of losing the life that she only now had just realized that she could have, made me both dislike her but appreciate her more at the same time. In contrast, Mairead's perceived wishy-washiness at times was equally off-putting, but I loved every ounce of her character. This is a beautifully written queer romance and I found myself wishing for more of their story after the last pages.
Thank you to NetGalley, Flame Tree Press, and Shona Kinsella for the eARC of this novel for review.
I found Constance's behavior when she realized that she was in danger of losing the life that she only now had just realized that she could have, made me both dislike her but appreciate her more at the same time. In contrast, Mairead's perceived wishy-washiness at times was equally off-putting, but I loved every ounce of her character. This is a beautifully written queer romance and I found myself wishing for more of their story after the last pages.
Thank you to NetGalley, Flame Tree Press, and Shona Kinsella for the eARC of this novel for review.
November 2, 2025
There’s something about Scottish witchcraft, ancient magic, and women fighting for their place in a world ruled by men that just gets me every time and Daughters of Nicnevin captured that perfectly.
Set in 1745 Jacobite uprising, this story follows Mairead and Constance, two witches bound by power, fear, and sisterhood.
With their men gone to war and danger closing in from both the Black Watch and nearby raiders, they turn to Nicnevin, the fae queen of witches herself, for help. What they summon are men made of earth, protectors born of magic and desperation.
But magic always has a price… and when the village men return, the real question becomes: who are they truly fighting?
This book is dripping with atmosphere! The mist curling through the glen, firelight flickering off ancient stone, whispers of betrayal carried on the wind.
Shona Kinsella’s writing is lyrical and haunting, the kind that seeps into your skin like the damp Scottish air.
It’s not just about witchcraft, it’s about womanhood, power, fear, and survival. A story of loyalty, love, and the danger of asking for help from the wrong kind of goddess.
If you loved Outlander, or you’re drawn to folklore, rebellion, and stories where women take fate into their own hands (sometimes literally), Daughters of Nicnevin is one to mark for your November 2025 TBR.
Set in 1745 Jacobite uprising, this story follows Mairead and Constance, two witches bound by power, fear, and sisterhood.
With their men gone to war and danger closing in from both the Black Watch and nearby raiders, they turn to Nicnevin, the fae queen of witches herself, for help. What they summon are men made of earth, protectors born of magic and desperation.
But magic always has a price… and when the village men return, the real question becomes: who are they truly fighting?
This book is dripping with atmosphere! The mist curling through the glen, firelight flickering off ancient stone, whispers of betrayal carried on the wind.
Shona Kinsella’s writing is lyrical and haunting, the kind that seeps into your skin like the damp Scottish air.
It’s not just about witchcraft, it’s about womanhood, power, fear, and survival. A story of loyalty, love, and the danger of asking for help from the wrong kind of goddess.
If you loved Outlander, or you’re drawn to folklore, rebellion, and stories where women take fate into their own hands (sometimes literally), Daughters of Nicnevin is one to mark for your November 2025 TBR.
October 17, 2025
The premise sounded really good. I love the cover.
However... This is a2.5 to almost 3 star read for me and I feel both sad and disappointed about it. It starts off well, the first chapter pulls you in. And like I said, the premise sounded really promising, witches creating golems and every moral dilemma that comes with it.
And then the book gets I don't even know how to say it, not confusing but somehow underwhelming and leaves you wanting more and at the same time it leaves me feeling a bit angry. Mairead and Constance's relationship is... not good. I absolutely was not here for Constance's behaviour towards Mairead and it just started resembling a toxic relationship to me instead of a relationship I should be cheering on and wanting to see develop more.
While I can understand why Constance behaved the way she did, and she did some really bad things both to Mairead and the people around her, I just do not think she is a good character and did not deserve the resolution she got, as neither did Mairead. Again, I'm sad this book fell short for me because it had all the things I should enjoy.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
However... This is a2.5 to almost 3 star read for me and I feel both sad and disappointed about it. It starts off well, the first chapter pulls you in. And like I said, the premise sounded really promising, witches creating golems and every moral dilemma that comes with it.
And then the book gets I don't even know how to say it, not confusing but somehow underwhelming and leaves you wanting more and at the same time it leaves me feeling a bit angry. Mairead and Constance's relationship is... not good. I absolutely was not here for Constance's behaviour towards Mairead and it just started resembling a toxic relationship to me instead of a relationship I should be cheering on and wanting to see develop more.
While I can understand why Constance behaved the way she did, and she did some really bad things both to Mairead and the people around her, I just do not think she is a good character and did not deserve the resolution she got, as neither did Mairead. Again, I'm sad this book fell short for me because it had all the things I should enjoy.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 24, 2025
Daughters of Nicnevin is Scotland, a country very dear to my heart, having spent many summer holidays all around that wonderful country.
So here we have a tale that absolutely exudes atmosphere, feeling and emotion, all three dripping from the pages as you read along. You really do believe you're right there during that turbulent period of history.
I always find it incredibly intriguing when a novel is a mix of fantasy and factual history, and here, the author has done a great job of combining the two.
Set during the tumultuous times of the Jacobean uprisings, it's not centered around the brutal battles, but rather the women left behind while the men are fighting. But threats are abound and to help protect themselves and their village, they enlist the help of the fae queen of witches, Nicnevin, who must summon men made of the very earth to help protect the village.
Want to know more? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
So all in all, an intriguing read, imbued with rich celtic folklore and mythology, and a great gothic feel.
I wouldn’t say it's fast paced, but not all novels should be, some bobb along nicely, just like this one, and that pace suits just right.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
So here we have a tale that absolutely exudes atmosphere, feeling and emotion, all three dripping from the pages as you read along. You really do believe you're right there during that turbulent period of history.
I always find it incredibly intriguing when a novel is a mix of fantasy and factual history, and here, the author has done a great job of combining the two.
Set during the tumultuous times of the Jacobean uprisings, it's not centered around the brutal battles, but rather the women left behind while the men are fighting. But threats are abound and to help protect themselves and their village, they enlist the help of the fae queen of witches, Nicnevin, who must summon men made of the very earth to help protect the village.
Want to know more? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
So all in all, an intriguing read, imbued with rich celtic folklore and mythology, and a great gothic feel.
I wouldn’t say it's fast paced, but not all novels should be, some bobb along nicely, just like this one, and that pace suits just right.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
November 16, 2025
What a disappointment.
I loved the first part. If I only had to rate it, I would give it a 3,5/5. Both Mairead and Constance were compelling, headstrong characters. It was a very original take on a story about witchcraft. Stories about witches are generally about being isolated and escaping persecution. Here, we see witches as protectors and leaders for their community. We see them being accepted (even though a little too quickly). The emphasis is on female solidarity and the male characters are only secondary.
However, the second part changed everything. My major complaint was that the romance between Mairead and Constance was barely fleshed. By 60%, they had stupid arguments. And then, by 70% their dynamic took a very toxic turn. Constance does unforgivable things to Mairead.
Also, I don't understand why the title is "Daughters of Nicnevin" while Mairead is physically attracted to Nicnevin every time she sees her.
So yes, a complete waste of potential. I'm angry.
I loved the first part. If I only had to rate it, I would give it a 3,5/5. Both Mairead and Constance were compelling, headstrong characters. It was a very original take on a story about witchcraft. Stories about witches are generally about being isolated and escaping persecution. Here, we see witches as protectors and leaders for their community. We see them being accepted (even though a little too quickly). The emphasis is on female solidarity and the male characters are only secondary.
However, the second part changed everything. My major complaint was that the romance between Mairead and Constance was barely fleshed. By 60%, they had stupid arguments. And then, by 70% their dynamic took a very toxic turn. Constance does unforgivable things to Mairead.
Also, I don't understand why the title is "Daughters of Nicnevin" while Mairead is physically attracted to Nicnevin every time she sees her.
So yes, a complete waste of potential. I'm angry.
December 13, 2025
Mairead and Constance are witches. When they make a deal with the fae queen of witches Nicnevin things take an unexpected turn.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I think it was the perfect introduction to their writing style. From the very first page I was transported to the 1700s where I met Mairead and Constance. The world building was detailed and easy to follow. I would describe this book as a mix of historical fiction and fantasy. The storyline included magic, romance and the fae.
Mairead and Constance were brilliant characters and I enjoyed getting to know them as the story progressed. Mairead has always known she is a witch and the extent of her powers but she’s always hidden who she is from everyone. Whereas Constance isn’t aware that she is a witch. When they meet they strike up a close friendship which quickly turns into something more.
What was interesting was how they both deal with their magic and ability. Separately they have power but when they use their power together they are unstoppable. Things do become complicated when they strike up a deal with Nicnevin. Their ultimate goal is to protect Kilmartin and it’s occupants. Nicnevin gives Mairead and Constance the power to create men from the earth called Albans but their life force is tied to members of the village. The Albans initially start off as a good idea and the benefit of having them present is instantaneous but then the Albans start to develop and controlling them becomes more difficult.
One of the most memorable scenes in the story for me was when Mairead with the help of Constance use their magic to save people who are trapped in a burning building. This was a pivotal scene because by making this decision Mairead in particular reveals to the villagers her true identity.
If you enjoy the fantasy genre this is one book to add to your list.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I think it was the perfect introduction to their writing style. From the very first page I was transported to the 1700s where I met Mairead and Constance. The world building was detailed and easy to follow. I would describe this book as a mix of historical fiction and fantasy. The storyline included magic, romance and the fae.
Mairead and Constance were brilliant characters and I enjoyed getting to know them as the story progressed. Mairead has always known she is a witch and the extent of her powers but she’s always hidden who she is from everyone. Whereas Constance isn’t aware that she is a witch. When they meet they strike up a close friendship which quickly turns into something more.
What was interesting was how they both deal with their magic and ability. Separately they have power but when they use their power together they are unstoppable. Things do become complicated when they strike up a deal with Nicnevin. Their ultimate goal is to protect Kilmartin and it’s occupants. Nicnevin gives Mairead and Constance the power to create men from the earth called Albans but their life force is tied to members of the village. The Albans initially start off as a good idea and the benefit of having them present is instantaneous but then the Albans start to develop and controlling them becomes more difficult.
One of the most memorable scenes in the story for me was when Mairead with the help of Constance use their magic to save people who are trapped in a burning building. This was a pivotal scene because by making this decision Mairead in particular reveals to the villagers her true identity.
If you enjoy the fantasy genre this is one book to add to your list.
October 30, 2025
Daughters of Nicnevin begins with a pretty exciting idea of witches in the Scottish Highlands using ancient magic to protect their village during the Jacobite rising. The opening chapters draw you in with atmosphere and promise, and the idea of crafting sentient beings from clay is imaginative and new for me. The setting is beautiful, and the folklore elements are intriguing (I love folklore). There’s a clear love for Scottish history and myth throughout, and the inclusion of Scots dialect adds authenticity.
As the story progresses, however, some aspects didn’t quite land for me. The relationship between Mairead and Constance felt rushed and emotionally uneven, and I struggled with how certain behaviours were resolved. The magic system, while intriguing, sometimes felt too convenient, and I found myself wishing for more depth in both the world-building and emotional arcs.
That said, the book is enjoyable and the concept remains compelling. I’m grateful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC, and I’d be curious to explore more of Shona Kinsella’s work in future.
As the story progresses, however, some aspects didn’t quite land for me. The relationship between Mairead and Constance felt rushed and emotionally uneven, and I struggled with how certain behaviours were resolved. The magic system, while intriguing, sometimes felt too convenient, and I found myself wishing for more depth in both the world-building and emotional arcs.
That said, the book is enjoyable and the concept remains compelling. I’m grateful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC, and I’d be curious to explore more of Shona Kinsella’s work in future.
November 11, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for this eARC!
I really enjoyed this book! It's set in 1745 in Scotland around the time of Culloden. The story is centered around Mairead and Constance, two witches that are trying to do all they can to protect their village while the men have gone to join Prince Charles' army. They decide to call upon Nicnevin to see if she will help them protect the village from raiders and the Black Watch. Nicnevin is able to provide them with a solution, but it comes at a price. She agrees to help them create a group of clay men that will help them bring in the harvest and protect the village, but she warns them that they have to be very specific in any tasks they give the men, or the magic could be tainted. This story is full of Scottish folklore, magic, and two independent women trying to navigate the world using their own power. Mairead and Constance both look at magic a bit differently, and I really enjoyed reading about how they navigate using magic in a world after the witch trials. If you want a good story that is a mix of fantasy and history, then this is the book for you! Be sure to grab a copy on November 11th!
I really enjoyed this book! It's set in 1745 in Scotland around the time of Culloden. The story is centered around Mairead and Constance, two witches that are trying to do all they can to protect their village while the men have gone to join Prince Charles' army. They decide to call upon Nicnevin to see if she will help them protect the village from raiders and the Black Watch. Nicnevin is able to provide them with a solution, but it comes at a price. She agrees to help them create a group of clay men that will help them bring in the harvest and protect the village, but she warns them that they have to be very specific in any tasks they give the men, or the magic could be tainted. This story is full of Scottish folklore, magic, and two independent women trying to navigate the world using their own power. Mairead and Constance both look at magic a bit differently, and I really enjoyed reading about how they navigate using magic in a world after the witch trials. If you want a good story that is a mix of fantasy and history, then this is the book for you! Be sure to grab a copy on November 11th!
November 13, 2025
Oh my heart, Daughters of Nicnevin absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way. Shona has outdone herself with this one. It’s emotional and powerful and full of that quiet, bone deep magic that only she can write.
It follows two women, Mairead the wandering witch and healer with a soft heart, and Constance, a wife trying to survive in a world that keeps her small. I loved them both like they were real people. You feel every heartbeat, every ache, every tiny spark of courage. The way Shona writes women... it’s so raw and honest and full of fire. It’s about sisterhood, survival, and finding your power even when the world tells you not to.
The writing is just gorgeous, lyrical but never pretentious. It’s witchy and feminist and beautifully human all at once.
I’m honestly so proud of her. You can feel her whole soul in this story. It’s the kind of book that stays under your skin and won’t let go. If you read one book this year, make it this one.
It follows two women, Mairead the wandering witch and healer with a soft heart, and Constance, a wife trying to survive in a world that keeps her small. I loved them both like they were real people. You feel every heartbeat, every ache, every tiny spark of courage. The way Shona writes women... it’s so raw and honest and full of fire. It’s about sisterhood, survival, and finding your power even when the world tells you not to.
The writing is just gorgeous, lyrical but never pretentious. It’s witchy and feminist and beautifully human all at once.
I’m honestly so proud of her. You can feel her whole soul in this story. It’s the kind of book that stays under your skin and won’t let go. If you read one book this year, make it this one.
December 9, 2025
This was such a fun and cosy read!
Mairead is a witch, she moves from place to place regularly to avoid being found out because 1700s Scotland is not the place you want to be accused of being so.
When Mairead moves onto her next venture she feels a calling and finds herself drawn to not only another witch but also the fae queen of witches, Nicnevin.
Constance has also been hiding her whole life, suppressing her magic and making herself small to be unnoticeable. But when she meet Mairead, they instantly recognise eachother for what they are, and they don’t have to hide any longer.
I absolutely adore the magic, folklore and the small town Scottish highland vibe this book brings.
Mairead and Constance’s story is truly amazing. I love how Shona writes women, how powerful they are even without the magic and how the power of sisterhood and womanhood brings us together in the face of adversity.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more of Shona’s writing.
Mairead is a witch, she moves from place to place regularly to avoid being found out because 1700s Scotland is not the place you want to be accused of being so.
When Mairead moves onto her next venture she feels a calling and finds herself drawn to not only another witch but also the fae queen of witches, Nicnevin.
Constance has also been hiding her whole life, suppressing her magic and making herself small to be unnoticeable. But when she meet Mairead, they instantly recognise eachother for what they are, and they don’t have to hide any longer.
I absolutely adore the magic, folklore and the small town Scottish highland vibe this book brings.
Mairead and Constance’s story is truly amazing. I love how Shona writes women, how powerful they are even without the magic and how the power of sisterhood and womanhood brings us together in the face of adversity.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more of Shona’s writing.
July 22, 2025
Reminiscent of Kathleen Kaufman's HAG, Daughters of Nicnevin is a doorway into folklore, historical fiction, and witchcraft.
Although I was completely unfamiliar with Shona Kinsella prior to being approved for this title, I now wish to read her other novels.
Readers of this book would hopefully look to Julie Hearn's The Merrybegot aka The Minister's Daughter, which is set in England in 1645 (100 years earlier than Daughters). I would have completely inhaled this book as a teenager.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Although I was completely unfamiliar with Shona Kinsella prior to being approved for this title, I now wish to read her other novels.
Readers of this book would hopefully look to Julie Hearn's The Merrybegot aka The Minister's Daughter, which is set in England in 1645 (100 years earlier than Daughters). I would have completely inhaled this book as a teenager.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
4.5 ⭐ rounded up
thanks to netgalley for sending me an ARC for this book!
i don't think I've read any historic fantasy in a while so this was a very fun change from what I've been reading recently
i have an especially soft spot for historical fantasy with witches and this was even better because it gave me SAPPHIC witches
its messy in a realistic way, its defending your home and your loved ones even if that defense ends up not as planned. Its finding a home and building a safe haven for others like them.
it definitely had me hooked from the start and i had a great time reading
thanks to netgalley for sending me an ARC for this book!
i don't think I've read any historic fantasy in a while so this was a very fun change from what I've been reading recently
i have an especially soft spot for historical fantasy with witches and this was even better because it gave me SAPPHIC witches
its messy in a realistic way, its defending your home and your loved ones even if that defense ends up not as planned. Its finding a home and building a safe haven for others like them.
it definitely had me hooked from the start and i had a great time reading
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2025
❤️ Daughters of Nicnevin ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (ARC Review)
Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy (Witches), LGBT
This story went far beyond what I expected. It was written in such a fluid and mesmerizing way that I found it hard to put down. I was especially impressed by the cover design and the title. They caught my attention right from the start. The author’s narrative style felt truly masterful, making the book both easy to read and incredibly engaging. Since I love both historical fiction and fantasy elements, I absolutely enjoyed this book. It’s an outstanding work, and I’ll gladly recommend it to everyone.
* Winner of the Independent Publisher of the Year Award, 2024, FLAME TREE PRESS
This is an ARC review. Many thanks to the publisher and the author for kindly sending me this physical copy in exchange for an honest review.
Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy (Witches), LGBT
This story went far beyond what I expected. It was written in such a fluid and mesmerizing way that I found it hard to put down. I was especially impressed by the cover design and the title. They caught my attention right from the start. The author’s narrative style felt truly masterful, making the book both easy to read and incredibly engaging. Since I love both historical fiction and fantasy elements, I absolutely enjoyed this book. It’s an outstanding work, and I’ll gladly recommend it to everyone.
* Winner of the Independent Publisher of the Year Award, 2024, FLAME TREE PRESS
This is an ARC review. Many thanks to the publisher and the author for kindly sending me this physical copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2025
💖 Blurb-
Mairead and Constance, two powerful witches, meet in the early days of the 1745 Jacobite uprising. While the men of the village are away fighting, the villagers face threats from both the Black Watch and raiders, and the women are confronted with their vulnerability. They enlist the help of Nicnevin, fae queen of witches, to bring men made of earth to life to help protect their village. But just who do they need protection from? And what will happen when the village men return?
💙 Review -
This was such a brilliant and well written novel. From the very first page I was hooked and I was swept away into the story along with the characters. I found the story interesting and entertaining and there was plenty of content and twists and turns that kept me interested and reading until the end. I also loved the place settings in the story and I found the pacing just right. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers.
💝 Thank you to Random Things Tours, the author, Shona Kinsella and the publisher, Flame Tree Press for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Mairead and Constance, two powerful witches, meet in the early days of the 1745 Jacobite uprising. While the men of the village are away fighting, the villagers face threats from both the Black Watch and raiders, and the women are confronted with their vulnerability. They enlist the help of Nicnevin, fae queen of witches, to bring men made of earth to life to help protect their village. But just who do they need protection from? And what will happen when the village men return?
💙 Review -
This was such a brilliant and well written novel. From the very first page I was hooked and I was swept away into the story along with the characters. I found the story interesting and entertaining and there was plenty of content and twists and turns that kept me interested and reading until the end. I also loved the place settings in the story and I found the pacing just right. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers.
💝 Thank you to Random Things Tours, the author, Shona Kinsella and the publisher, Flame Tree Press for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2025
One of the most dangerous things to be in the 1740s Scottish Highlands is a jacobite witch. Throw in a sapphic relationship and OOF. So you know there’s a lot on the line for Mairead and Constance.
The concept of witchcraft, magic, and specifically the Albans was super interesting and well-done, though I did feel that everything always came together a little too perfectly, especially with serious consequences being skirted multiple times. It kind of felt like when your mom tells you if you do something even ONCE, you’ll be grounded for the rest of your life, but then you do it and she’s like, “well, this time doesn’t count.” So when something went wrong, there wasn’t the same sense of dread as there’d have been if there was no leniency shown previously.
I really enjoyed the sapphic element of the story. Their relationship wasn’t perfect - it was actually fairly tumultuous, and that felt right for the setting. I liked that there was exploration of Mairead and Constance’s differences rather than it basically being like “oh, they’re queer witches, that’s enough for them to get along perfectly forever!”
I was surprised to find that the book was a little twisty! The journey to the end didn’t fall into place exactly as I thought it would, and I appreciate that.
Overall a solid sapphic witchy book with a fantastic setting and strong female characters.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley
The concept of witchcraft, magic, and specifically the Albans was super interesting and well-done, though I did feel that everything always came together a little too perfectly, especially with serious consequences being skirted multiple times. It kind of felt like when your mom tells you if you do something even ONCE, you’ll be grounded for the rest of your life, but then you do it and she’s like, “well, this time doesn’t count.” So when something went wrong, there wasn’t the same sense of dread as there’d have been if there was no leniency shown previously.
I really enjoyed the sapphic element of the story. Their relationship wasn’t perfect - it was actually fairly tumultuous, and that felt right for the setting. I liked that there was exploration of Mairead and Constance’s differences rather than it basically being like “oh, they’re queer witches, that’s enough for them to get along perfectly forever!”
I was surprised to find that the book was a little twisty! The journey to the end didn’t fall into place exactly as I thought it would, and I appreciate that.
Overall a solid sapphic witchy book with a fantastic setting and strong female characters.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley
September 28, 2025
Thank you to the publishers – Flame Tree Press – for giving me access to this book as an E-ARC via Netgalley.
The blurb got me. I love folklore, I love books about witches, and Scotland is a nice setting for both. I do think, however, that this book would have been better either being a strictly historical fiction with the backdrop of the Jacobite uprising or a low fantasy story with the focal point of witchcraft. For me, personally, it didn’t mix that well which is reflected in my overall opinion of the book.
The blurb got me. I love folklore, I love books about witches, and Scotland is a nice setting for both. I do think, however, that this book would have been better either being a strictly historical fiction with the backdrop of the Jacobite uprising or a low fantasy story with the focal point of witchcraft. For me, personally, it didn’t mix that well which is reflected in my overall opinion of the book.
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