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The Order of Brigid's Cross #1
The Order of Brigid's Cross
Detective Sean O’Reilly is called in to interrogate a young boy who is the only witness to a massacre during a gang war. The child’s story is too far-fetched for most of the Chicago Police Force to believe – claims of an army of other-worldly creatures who attacked and dismembered the rival gangs. But Sean O’Reilly believes him, because he’s seen them himself. An encounter he had as a boy in a dark forest in Ireland did not just give him nightmares, but changed his entire life.
477 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2015
225 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Terri Reid
105 books831 followersTerri Reid is the author of the Mary O’Reilly Paranormal Mysteries. An indie author, Reid uploaded her first book “Loose Ends” in August 2010. By the end of 2012, “Loose Ends” had sold over 82,000 copies and, as of the writing of this bio, was the number one bestselling book in Amazon’s ranking of Ghost Stories in the Book/Literature & Fiction/Genre Fiction/Horror/Ghosts section and the number two in the same area in the Kindle eBooks section. She has eight other books in the Mary O’Reilly Series and has enjoyed Top Rated and Hot New Release status for many of them in the Women Sleuths category through Amazon US. Her books have been translated into Spanish and Portuguese and are also now available through CreateSpace and Amazon in print versions. She is also working on an audiobook for “Loose Ends.”
Reid has been quoted in several books about the self-publishing industry, including “Let’s Get Digital” by David Gaughran and “Interviews with Indie Authors: Top Tips from Successful Self-Published Authors” by Claire and Tim Ridgway. She was also honored to have some of her works included in A. J. Abbiati’s book “The NORTAV Method for Writers—The Secrets to Constructing Prose Like the Pros.” She has also had the distinct privilege of guest blogging for Joe Konrath.
Reid is from Northwest Illinois, near the town of Freeport, the home of her fictional characters. Her background is in marketing and public relations. She is married, the mother of seven children, and the grandmother of twenty-three.
She has her grandchildren convinced that she talks to fairies and animals - and they talk back.
Reid has been quoted in several books about the self-publishing industry, including “Let’s Get Digital” by David Gaughran and “Interviews with Indie Authors: Top Tips from Successful Self-Published Authors” by Claire and Tim Ridgway. She was also honored to have some of her works included in A. J. Abbiati’s book “The NORTAV Method for Writers—The Secrets to Constructing Prose Like the Pros.” She has also had the distinct privilege of guest blogging for Joe Konrath.
Reid is from Northwest Illinois, near the town of Freeport, the home of her fictional characters. Her background is in marketing and public relations. She is married, the mother of seven children, and the grandmother of twenty-three.
She has her grandchildren convinced that she talks to fairies and animals - and they talk back.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 22, 2015
This was my first time to read this writer's work. It was a decent young adult paranormal suspense. there was basically no romance and it was pretty PG throughout but if you are looking for a light drama free YA read this will do the.trick.
February 22, 2016
This newest book by Terri Reid is focused on Mary O'Reilly's brother Sean O'Reilly. As a young boy while visiting his grandmothers home in Ireland Sean has an encounter with a creature right out of Ireland's myths, an encounter that left its scars so when as a detective for Chicago's police force he is called to interview a whiteness to a massacre he is not ready to dismiss the boy's unbelievable story and this starts off a chain of events that brings Ireland's magical legends to life in a war that Sean is determined to win with the aid of a very unexpected source.
Terri hit this one out of the park with a home run! I love Sean and all the other characters that she brought to life in these page as well as a few old friends that lend their support!!
Great Job Terri Read!
Terri hit this one out of the park with a home run! I love Sean and all the other characters that she brought to life in these page as well as a few old friends that lend their support!!
Great Job Terri Read!
July 24, 2017
The Order of Brigid's Cross - The Wild Hunt ( book 1 )
As always extremely interesting, full of action & drama with a twist of horror .
Love to know when The Wild Hunt (book 2 ) will be out because this was left with a cliffhanger
that I have to know how thee story ends.
Terri Reid you are my one very favorite author, and will always be buying your books.
I have all your other books ( or series ). I tend to stay up in the wee hours of the night enjoying each story line you have created.
Thanks for sharing your story's with us all.
Cindy Rikey
As always extremely interesting, full of action & drama with a twist of horror .
Love to know when The Wild Hunt (book 2 ) will be out because this was left with a cliffhanger
that I have to know how thee story ends.
Terri Reid you are my one very favorite author, and will always be buying your books.
I have all your other books ( or series ). I tend to stay up in the wee hours of the night enjoying each story line you have created.
Thanks for sharing your story's with us all.
Cindy Rikey
May 24, 2020
Better than I imagined!
I didn’t really know what to expect and wasn’t sure I’d like it, but I couldn’t put this book down. It is somewhat of the Irish version of jim butchers Dresden files. Other-worldly creatures trying to mess with humanity in Chicago. These are the Irish fae, the Elk King and the Wild Hunt. Lots to learn about Irish folklore and all told in a good vs evil story. Loved it and I’m eager to get the next book!
I didn’t really know what to expect and wasn’t sure I’d like it, but I couldn’t put this book down. It is somewhat of the Irish version of jim butchers Dresden files. Other-worldly creatures trying to mess with humanity in Chicago. These are the Irish fae, the Elk King and the Wild Hunt. Lots to learn about Irish folklore and all told in a good vs evil story. Loved it and I’m eager to get the next book!
May 8, 2015
Finally
I have been waiting a long time for Sean's story. I was not disappointed. A lot more myth and magic than in Mary's stories. I loved reading about Irish myth. It was great to see some favorite characters crossover. I can't wait to see what happens next with the Order. I look forward to the next Mary book as well. If only there was another PRCD book, I would be set!!
I have been waiting a long time for Sean's story. I was not disappointed. A lot more myth and magic than in Mary's stories. I loved reading about Irish myth. It was great to see some favorite characters crossover. I can't wait to see what happens next with the Order. I look forward to the next Mary book as well. If only there was another PRCD book, I would be set!!
January 3, 2017
Awesome Urban Fantasy
I loved hearing about Sean and was disappointed to learn that there were no more books I. This series! This is an excellent urban fantasy with Irish myths. I just hope we get to hear more stories with these characters!
I loved hearing about Sean and was disappointed to learn that there were no more books I. This series! This is an excellent urban fantasy with Irish myths. I just hope we get to hear more stories with these characters!
February 19, 2024
Contains tiny spoilers regarding things revealed in the first few chapters.
First and foremost, despite its promising title, this book has absolutely nothing to do with Brigit.
Her involvement is limited to this:
“The original agreement between the Tuatha da Danaan and the church was called Brigid’s Cross … Saint Brigid was one of the first patron saints of Ireland. Some claim she was a great abbess who did wonderful things for the people of Ireland; although there is also some documentation that she was one of the ruling class of the Tuatha da Danaan (sic), a queen.” (106)
There is no reason given for calling the agreement of the Order “Brigid’s Cross.” The symbolism isn’t explained, and the cross itself is simply described as an “old Celtic symbol.” (252) Brigid herself is not mentioned again.
That said, there is no reason for me to carry on with this review, from the point of view of a Brigit book. But I read it and I somewhat enjoyed it, so for the sake of those who are interested and are already here reading this review, I will carry on.
Terri Reid is the author of many books, independently publishing two or three books a year for a good while, and finding many readers for her tales of paranormal, romance, and mystery. (I am too lazy to count up all of her books.) This is the first of her novels that I have read.
The Order of Brigid’s Cross - The Wild Hunt is a mythic urban fantasy with some violent and gruesome bits and an under-theme of looming romance.
I have mixed feelings about this book. There are a number of things that make it a less pleasant read for me, some of which I will mention here, but there are other elements that I appreciate, even some that are relatively rare in the books of this genre that I have read.
The second spoiler must be given so I can tell you the rare bit. The beings our detective and the Order are dealing with are the Seelie and Unseelie Courts, some of whom are of the Tuatha Dé Danann (spelled “Da” throughout the book). Despite the usual warping of the personalities of beings from Irish myth, the author has actually taken a deeper than normal look at the texts and tales behind them and gets a number of things right. This was lovely.
On the other hand, the book suffers from inconsistent writing; it doesn’t read to me like a professional, fully polished novel. There are moments when it is clear that Reid is capable of pleasing prose. She often supplies details that bring the setting to life (Chicago, which she seems to know well, and particular environments therein) and which tell us something about the character who is observing them. Frequently in the interactions between the characters, though, there’s a certain awkwardness, either in the description of how they might be feeling, toward each other especially, or in their dialogue. Over-used character types are frequent, as well. But nevertheless she has a good handle on the forward movement and details of the narrative, and the storytelling is engaging. I found myself, a good way into the book, beginning to care a little about some of the characters. The main character is not the easiest one for me to care for. He is taken from the mould of the tough but sensitive cop, and doesn’t feel terribly real to me, but now and then we see something in his character which is not taken from that cast and is lovely.
A random note: I know it’s hard to portray another group’s speech patterns, but I cringed a little now and then at how the Irish in the book speak. Reid seems to do better with the black family from a tough neighbourhood, but maybe that is because we have listened to the same TV shows and so it sounds more right to me. I honestly don’t know. Suffice it to say that although they are secondary characters and aren’t on the scene a lot, Jamal and his grandmother are two of my three favourite characters in the book. They feel the most natural and I quite like them. (The third is an even more minor character named Hettie.)
And one more note: I appreciate the way she wrapped things up at the end of the book. Not just in terms of the plot, but in terms of the emotional rightness of it all. I found myself rather liking this Terri Reid.
In summary, the writing is not smooth enough to draw me in and easily suspend disbelief, or entice me to read more of her books (although I have to read the sequel to see if Brigit ever shows up). I am guessing that the roughness around the edges of this book has to do with the intensity of her writing schedule. I prefer books that are taken time over, perfected to the extent the writer is capable of. This isn’t a priority for everyone, and this very experienced writer is clearly not really writing for me. But there are enough strong elements here that I do recommend it for those interested in this kind of story.
First and foremost, despite its promising title, this book has absolutely nothing to do with Brigit.
Her involvement is limited to this:
“The original agreement between the Tuatha da Danaan and the church was called Brigid’s Cross … Saint Brigid was one of the first patron saints of Ireland. Some claim she was a great abbess who did wonderful things for the people of Ireland; although there is also some documentation that she was one of the ruling class of the Tuatha da Danaan (sic), a queen.” (106)
There is no reason given for calling the agreement of the Order “Brigid’s Cross.” The symbolism isn’t explained, and the cross itself is simply described as an “old Celtic symbol.” (252) Brigid herself is not mentioned again.
That said, there is no reason for me to carry on with this review, from the point of view of a Brigit book. But I read it and I somewhat enjoyed it, so for the sake of those who are interested and are already here reading this review, I will carry on.
Terri Reid is the author of many books, independently publishing two or three books a year for a good while, and finding many readers for her tales of paranormal, romance, and mystery. (I am too lazy to count up all of her books.) This is the first of her novels that I have read.
The Order of Brigid’s Cross - The Wild Hunt is a mythic urban fantasy with some violent and gruesome bits and an under-theme of looming romance.
I have mixed feelings about this book. There are a number of things that make it a less pleasant read for me, some of which I will mention here, but there are other elements that I appreciate, even some that are relatively rare in the books of this genre that I have read.
The second spoiler must be given so I can tell you the rare bit. The beings our detective and the Order are dealing with are the Seelie and Unseelie Courts, some of whom are of the Tuatha Dé Danann (spelled “Da” throughout the book). Despite the usual warping of the personalities of beings from Irish myth, the author has actually taken a deeper than normal look at the texts and tales behind them and gets a number of things right. This was lovely.
On the other hand, the book suffers from inconsistent writing; it doesn’t read to me like a professional, fully polished novel. There are moments when it is clear that Reid is capable of pleasing prose. She often supplies details that bring the setting to life (Chicago, which she seems to know well, and particular environments therein) and which tell us something about the character who is observing them. Frequently in the interactions between the characters, though, there’s a certain awkwardness, either in the description of how they might be feeling, toward each other especially, or in their dialogue. Over-used character types are frequent, as well. But nevertheless she has a good handle on the forward movement and details of the narrative, and the storytelling is engaging. I found myself, a good way into the book, beginning to care a little about some of the characters. The main character is not the easiest one for me to care for. He is taken from the mould of the tough but sensitive cop, and doesn’t feel terribly real to me, but now and then we see something in his character which is not taken from that cast and is lovely.
A random note: I know it’s hard to portray another group’s speech patterns, but I cringed a little now and then at how the Irish in the book speak. Reid seems to do better with the black family from a tough neighbourhood, but maybe that is because we have listened to the same TV shows and so it sounds more right to me. I honestly don’t know. Suffice it to say that although they are secondary characters and aren’t on the scene a lot, Jamal and his grandmother are two of my three favourite characters in the book. They feel the most natural and I quite like them. (The third is an even more minor character named Hettie.)
And one more note: I appreciate the way she wrapped things up at the end of the book. Not just in terms of the plot, but in terms of the emotional rightness of it all. I found myself rather liking this Terri Reid.
In summary, the writing is not smooth enough to draw me in and easily suspend disbelief, or entice me to read more of her books (although I have to read the sequel to see if Brigit ever shows up). I am guessing that the roughness around the edges of this book has to do with the intensity of her writing schedule. I prefer books that are taken time over, perfected to the extent the writer is capable of. This isn’t a priority for everyone, and this very experienced writer is clearly not really writing for me. But there are enough strong elements here that I do recommend it for those interested in this kind of story.
September 20, 2017
I have read the Mary O'Reilly series and was out looking for more and came across this one about Sean, Mary's brother and was very excited. I was expecting more, Maybe because it was about her brother and he is police officer so I was expecting it to be more adult, less PG. (not sure how to explain it). Good story, but wanted more grit. I enjoy the more PG approach with Mary in that series, it makes sense. This book was still enjoyable and worth my time reading, hopefully there will be more in the series.
September 8, 2018
Love Terri Reid
Terri Reid spins a story that weaves legend, lore, and their characters into the modern world seamlessly in a way that honors friendships and morals and supplies vast amounts of action and suspense. She always leaves the door open for more adventures and yet completes the story you’re in. She leaves you wanting more and hints that she’ll deliver!
Terri Reid spins a story that weaves legend, lore, and their characters into the modern world seamlessly in a way that honors friendships and morals and supplies vast amounts of action and suspense. She always leaves the door open for more adventures and yet completes the story you’re in. She leaves you wanting more and hints that she’ll deliver!
May 8, 2017
What a thrill!
The Mary O'Reilly books are addicting. I was enthralled from Chapter One. The story was exciting and fast-paced and left me breathless right up to the end. I cannot wait for book two!
The Mary O'Reilly books are addicting. I was enthralled from Chapter One. The story was exciting and fast-paced and left me breathless right up to the end. I cannot wait for book two!
May 11, 2018
Very good start to series
I like Sean already from reading Mary O'Reilly series. The writing is very good. The uniqueness of the storyline and otherworldly creatures kept me thoroughly intrigued with the book. Sean plays hero as usual. Em is feisty and seems to care about Sean.
I like Sean already from reading Mary O'Reilly series. The writing is very good. The uniqueness of the storyline and otherworldly creatures kept me thoroughly intrigued with the book. Sean plays hero as usual. Em is feisty and seems to care about Sean.
May 17, 2019
Another great tale
There is not one story written by Terri Reid that by have not thoroughly enjoyed. They are simple and heartfelt. There is no need for vulgarity . Just simple live, kindness and courage.
There is not one story written by Terri Reid that by have not thoroughly enjoyed. They are simple and heartfelt. There is no need for vulgarity . Just simple live, kindness and courage.
July 6, 2019
The Wild Hunt #1 was pretty good. I liked the Irish folklore that ran through the book and drove the plot. The characters were engaging. This is the first time I’ve read Terri Reid’s work. I’m most likely in for Book #2 of this series.
March 3, 2020
She never disappoints!
I love all of Terri Reid's books. They are full of adventures, mystery, and humor. I always look forward to seeing her newest book and getting lost in her thoughts.
I love all of Terri Reid's books. They are full of adventures, mystery, and humor. I always look forward to seeing her newest book and getting lost in her thoughts.
November 16, 2021
there be faeries
Lived in Ireland for a bit so I did hear stories of the far. This was great. The next time I’m back in Ireland I’ll geo and get a look at the Book of Kelly’s this time around. This was a great story and I loved it. Sean O’Reilly is my new hero.
Lived in Ireland for a bit so I did hear stories of the far. This was great. The next time I’m back in Ireland I’ll geo and get a look at the Book of Kelly’s this time around. This was a great story and I loved it. Sean O’Reilly is my new hero.
June 3, 2017
Perfect Addition
Excellent addition to the paranormal world of Ms. Reid. I simply cannot wait for the next book in this series.
Excellent addition to the paranormal world of Ms. Reid. I simply cannot wait for the next book in this series.
October 23, 2017
Great!
I love reading Terri's books, and I had to re-read this one so I can follow the next, and it was just as good as the first time!
I love reading Terri's books, and I had to re-read this one so I can follow the next, and it was just as good as the first time!
May 21, 2018
Very good book! This series has some potential to rival some of the great urban fantasy author's such as Jim butcher and Kim Harrison.
July 2, 2018
I enjoyed Sean O'Reilly's story. I found it confusing keeping track of the different faery factions.
April 15, 2019
I love Mary's books so much, and i liked Sean's character. I was very excited about this book but.. kinda disappointing.
March 20, 2020
Very good. Story that includes faerie legends.
September 30, 2020
Great new series
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it. A new type of enemy with a new group of friends.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it. A new type of enemy with a new group of friends.
January 1, 2023
outstanding
This is a great book to read.
Terri Reid, is a great writer.
This is my 21st book to read of this Author Collection of books.
Thank you for being a fantastic writer.
This is a great book to read.
Terri Reid, is a great writer.
This is my 21st book to read of this Author Collection of books.
Thank you for being a fantastic writer.
September 12, 2023
GREAT JOB
GREAT JOB I liked the story. I think I still like the Mary WoOdley series the best so far. I will continue to read anything written by this author. Thank you very much
GREAT JOB I liked the story. I think I still like the Mary WoOdley series the best so far. I will continue to read anything written by this author. Thank you very much
February 18, 2024
Shawn in love?
Great battles, beware that if your younger child is read just know that some battles are very descriptive and might need your review first. Great book.
Great battles, beware that if your younger child is read just know that some battles are very descriptive and might need your review first. Great book.
March 13, 2017
Adventure
I didn't want to put this adventure down. Sean O'Reilly has his hands full of crazy creatures and trying to stay alive. He has some awesome friends and family.
I am looking forward to more is these adventures.
I didn't want to put this adventure down. Sean O'Reilly has his hands full of crazy creatures and trying to stay alive. He has some awesome friends and family.
I am looking forward to more is these adventures.
May 22, 2019
This is a spinoff series of the Mary O'Reilly series featuring Sean O'Reilly, Mary's Brother, and Ian, the Scottish paranormal professor. This series was a bit more gory than the Mary O'Reilly series, but still with the same style of characters and situations.
I will read anything from this author at this point as she is one of my favorites and this didn't disappoint.
I will read anything from this author at this point as she is one of my favorites and this didn't disappoint.
May 26, 2015
A whole new world!
This series is very, very different from the Mary series which is not exactly what I was expecting, but it's refreshing. I am not very versed on Irish folklore, so it's been an interesting learning experience with this novel, and I can't wait to see what's in store in future installments. I love where Sean and Em's story is going, and I'm so glad that Ian has continued to be an integral part, even if it's not in the Mary series, because I have grown so very fond of him. These O'Reillys sure are badasses, aren't they?! ;)
This series is very, very different from the Mary series which is not exactly what I was expecting, but it's refreshing. I am not very versed on Irish folklore, so it's been an interesting learning experience with this novel, and I can't wait to see what's in store in future installments. I love where Sean and Em's story is going, and I'm so glad that Ian has continued to be an integral part, even if it's not in the Mary series, because I have grown so very fond of him. These O'Reillys sure are badasses, aren't they?! ;)
August 4, 2015
This might be my favorite Terri Reid book. I have read almost all of the Mary O'Reilly mysteries and this is a spin off book about her brother Sean. He is a cop in Chicago and an event from his past collides with present day and an investigation he is involved in. Ian, one of the much loved characters from the Mary O'Reilly mysteries is a prominent character in this story as well. A very good book. Hope this will be a series and I look forward to reading more about Sean.
August 29, 2015
Great book
I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't what I got. I loved this book. I learned quite a lot about the fae and the stories associated with them. Terri Reid has an amazing ability to make the unusual understandable. The characters are memorable, even those not of our world and while the plot is out of the norm, it comes down to the basic fight of good versus evil. Good won this time, but one wonders if this will always be the case.
I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't what I got. I loved this book. I learned quite a lot about the fae and the stories associated with them. Terri Reid has an amazing ability to make the unusual understandable. The characters are memorable, even those not of our world and while the plot is out of the norm, it comes down to the basic fight of good versus evil. Good won this time, but one wonders if this will always be the case.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews