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He’s the seventh son of a seventh son. She's the daughter of a wise woman. They're both trying to avoid their fates.
Diarmuid is not a typical bard. His tales aren't about hope and heroism, but instead they reflect the darkness he feels inside. When he inadvertently brings his imaginary muse to life, everything she knows comes from Diarmuid’s melancholic tales. Desiring her own life, she leaves Diarmuid and sets out to live in the only way she knows how.
Brigit tries to be a good wise woman like her mother, but feels like she’s wasting her life dispensing charms and cures. She spends her days longing for danger and adventure. When she encounters a fey and becomes the victim of a cruel curse, she gets more adventure than she ever wanted.
As the pair cross paths, they soon realise that the only way to succeed in their quests is to join forces. Together, they discover the true nature of Diarmuid’s bond with his muse. While the world will never be safe with the creature on the prowl, destroying her could have fatal consequences…
Muse is the first book in a series of historical fantasy novels set in pre-Roman Britain. For readers who like lush historical backdrops with a fairytale feeling and a fantasy quest, characters who fight their destiny, and new spins on Celtic mythology.
Diarmuid is not a typical bard. His tales aren't about hope and heroism, but instead they reflect the darkness he feels inside. When he inadvertently brings his imaginary muse to life, everything she knows comes from Diarmuid’s melancholic tales. Desiring her own life, she leaves Diarmuid and sets out to live in the only way she knows how.
Brigit tries to be a good wise woman like her mother, but feels like she’s wasting her life dispensing charms and cures. She spends her days longing for danger and adventure. When she encounters a fey and becomes the victim of a cruel curse, she gets more adventure than she ever wanted.
As the pair cross paths, they soon realise that the only way to succeed in their quests is to join forces. Together, they discover the true nature of Diarmuid’s bond with his muse. While the world will never be safe with the creature on the prowl, destroying her could have fatal consequences…
Muse is the first book in a series of historical fantasy novels set in pre-Roman Britain. For readers who like lush historical backdrops with a fairytale feeling and a fantasy quest, characters who fight their destiny, and new spins on Celtic mythology.
402 pages, ebook
First published December 1, 2015
351 people are currently reading
1899 people want to read
About the author
Kylie Quillinan
36 books71 followersKylie writes about women who defy society’s expectations. Her novels are for readers who like fantasy with a basis in history or mythology. Her interests include Dr Who, jellyfish and cocktails. She needs to get fit before the zombies come. You can find her online at kyliequillinan.com.
SWAN – the epilogue to the Tales of Silver Downs series – is available exclusively to her mailing list subscribers. Sign up at kyliequillinan.com.
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Kylie Quillinan
1. I studied Ancient Greek at university because I wanted to read Homer in his own language.
2. I’m fascinated by miniatures and tiny things, and am building my own dollhouse.
3. I studied to be a journalist because I thought that would provide a more reliable income than writing. I hated it because I wasn’t telling my own stories, only repeating what somebody else had already said.
4. If I wasn’t a writer, I would have been a marine biologist except that I get very, very sea sick. I’m also claustrophobic under water so that was never going to work out.
5. I never ever look into a mirror in a dark room.
SWAN – the epilogue to the Tales of Silver Downs series – is available exclusively to her mailing list subscribers. Sign up at kyliequillinan.com.
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Kylie Quillinan
1. I studied Ancient Greek at university because I wanted to read Homer in his own language.
2. I’m fascinated by miniatures and tiny things, and am building my own dollhouse.
3. I studied to be a journalist because I thought that would provide a more reliable income than writing. I hated it because I wasn’t telling my own stories, only repeating what somebody else had already said.
4. If I wasn’t a writer, I would have been a marine biologist except that I get very, very sea sick. I’m also claustrophobic under water so that was never going to work out.
5. I never ever look into a mirror in a dark room.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 4, 2016
I received a copy of this book for free with a request to post a review.
The story began really slow with a hero who was not particularly likable. After several chapters the story finally picked up and I began to enjoy the plot. My problem is the hero never learned, never attempted to change never even solved the problem on his own, but completely relied on others. I don't need a happy ending but I want to see something develop with the character during the tale.
The story began really slow with a hero who was not particularly likable. After several chapters the story finally picked up and I began to enjoy the plot. My problem is the hero never learned, never attempted to change never even solved the problem on his own, but completely relied on others. I don't need a happy ending but I want to see something develop with the character during the tale.
July 14, 2017
In "Muse," the seventh son of a seventh son discovers his ability to make his stories come true just a little too late, when the malevolent muse he has created in his head steps out of his head and into real life, where she soon begins wreaking havoc. Meanwhile, a young woman destined to be a healer wishes to be destined for something a little more exciting--until her wish comes true.
"Muse" has a lot of fun fairy tale elements that readers of fantasy are sure to recognize. It's set in a vaguely Gaelic world, with incursions by the Fair Folk and magical visits to fairy mounds, not to mention the seventh son of a seventh son and so on. It is deliberately built on the concept of story tropes, and uses them in its own construction, but with enough of a twist to keep it unique. I quite enjoyed the idea and thought that the execution was competent and likely to appeal to fans of modern fantasy who like Gaelic-themed world building.
"Muse" has a lot of fun fairy tale elements that readers of fantasy are sure to recognize. It's set in a vaguely Gaelic world, with incursions by the Fair Folk and magical visits to fairy mounds, not to mention the seventh son of a seventh son and so on. It is deliberately built on the concept of story tropes, and uses them in its own construction, but with enough of a twist to keep it unique. I quite enjoyed the idea and thought that the execution was competent and likely to appeal to fans of modern fantasy who like Gaelic-themed world building.
June 10, 2019
'Muse' is one of the best independently published books I have read this year. Even better, the author lives in my hometown. It's good to see such a brilliant work originate here that can compete easily against works from other countries.
Some might think of Muse as a YA type book, simply because of its main characters. But I feel it's more than that. I see it more as a rite-of-passage and coming-of-age.
The seventh son of the seventh son, Diarmuid is a bard. But his stories aren't the usual types told by others, and he has a peculiar ability to boot. His stories come true. Worse! the muse he created has escaped his head and is wreaking havoc in another neighbouring town.
Of course when he learns this, Diarmuid sets off on his quest - to destroy the muse before she kills more people. Along the way, he meets extra companions who join his journey and quest. Each has their own secrets that can be used to either tear them apart or keep them together.
The Fey have a pronounced presence through the story too to add their complications.
I loved the characters - especially Brigit (or is it Bramble?). She's full of spark, fury, and a no-nonsense attitude - and even without words, she can put Diarmuid in his place. Each character was written with obvious love by the author, and make the story as brilliant as it is.
Some might think of Muse as a YA type book, simply because of its main characters. But I feel it's more than that. I see it more as a rite-of-passage and coming-of-age.
The seventh son of the seventh son, Diarmuid is a bard. But his stories aren't the usual types told by others, and he has a peculiar ability to boot. His stories come true. Worse! the muse he created has escaped his head and is wreaking havoc in another neighbouring town.
Of course when he learns this, Diarmuid sets off on his quest - to destroy the muse before she kills more people. Along the way, he meets extra companions who join his journey and quest. Each has their own secrets that can be used to either tear them apart or keep them together.
The Fey have a pronounced presence through the story too to add their complications.
I loved the characters - especially Brigit (or is it Bramble?). She's full of spark, fury, and a no-nonsense attitude - and even without words, she can put Diarmuid in his place. Each character was written with obvious love by the author, and make the story as brilliant as it is.
May 13, 2019
Good story
Good story, enjoyable read and we something different to read. Engaging characters who really took on the story as their own
Good story, enjoyable read and we something different to read. Engaging characters who really took on the story as their own
August 28, 2018
This was pretty good. It was just so long and drawn out. It is interesting and the characters are likable. My favourite was oswain I think. Lovable death dealer.
August 5, 2016
// I received a free copy of this book through LibraryThing's Members Giveaway program. //
In the next few moments, it is my job to convince you to spend your hard earned money and spare time purchasing and reading this book. So, I will simply say that Muse is a well written, adventure fantasy with likable characters and a captivating plot.
Need more prodding? Okay.
Quillinan's attention to detail is commendable, especially when it comes to the characters' names. Google Fiachra after you've finished reading, and you'll see what I mean.
It was refreshing to read a fantasy novel where the main character wasn't a thief, soldier, or member of a royal family. Diarmuid is actually a pretty awful bard, considering he was destined for the profession, because his pretentious nature keeps him from connecting to his audience. That same trait also makes him an awfully annoying person. All of that being said, I actually found myself liking him. He definitely has faults, but they made him feel more realistic, which made him easier to relate to.
There are a few grammatical errors here and there but only a few, and they were definitely not indicative of the writing in the rest of the book. I only point this out because it can take you out of the story and was one of the reasons I didn't give the book the full five stars.
Bottom line, Muse is an entertaining Celtic, adventure fantasy that I will definitely be recommending to friends. I look forward to reading the next books in the Silver Downs series and anything else Mrs. Quillinan should choose to write.
In the next few moments, it is my job to convince you to spend your hard earned money and spare time purchasing and reading this book. So, I will simply say that Muse is a well written, adventure fantasy with likable characters and a captivating plot.
Need more prodding? Okay.
Quillinan's attention to detail is commendable, especially when it comes to the characters' names. Google Fiachra after you've finished reading, and you'll see what I mean.
It was refreshing to read a fantasy novel where the main character wasn't a thief, soldier, or member of a royal family. Diarmuid is actually a pretty awful bard, considering he was destined for the profession, because his pretentious nature keeps him from connecting to his audience. That same trait also makes him an awfully annoying person. All of that being said, I actually found myself liking him. He definitely has faults, but they made him feel more realistic, which made him easier to relate to.
There are a few grammatical errors here and there but only a few, and they were definitely not indicative of the writing in the rest of the book. I only point this out because it can take you out of the story and was one of the reasons I didn't give the book the full five stars.
Bottom line, Muse is an entertaining Celtic, adventure fantasy that I will definitely be recommending to friends. I look forward to reading the next books in the Silver Downs series and anything else Mrs. Quillinan should choose to write.
November 24, 2016
This book had so much potential - the story, the setting, the characters, everything was set up to be amazing. I felt that it just needed one more read by an editor to really be fantastic.
It's well-written and though a little slow to start, does pick up the pace later. However, there's a lot of repetition - sometimes with slight differences, which is confusing - and a focus on details that I think could be skipped entirely (I appreciate that the characters have to pee in chamber pots, but there's a reason that most books don't mention that).
If you are looking for a decent story with a gorgeous Celtic setting where you can let your imagination run wild, and don't worry too much about details of the plot, then I'd recommend this book. And now that I know what to expect, I'll likely read the sequel as well.
It's well-written and though a little slow to start, does pick up the pace later. However, there's a lot of repetition - sometimes with slight differences, which is confusing - and a focus on details that I think could be skipped entirely (I appreciate that the characters have to pee in chamber pots, but there's a reason that most books don't mention that).
If you are looking for a decent story with a gorgeous Celtic setting where you can let your imagination run wild, and don't worry too much about details of the plot, then I'd recommend this book. And now that I know what to expect, I'll likely read the sequel as well.
September 4, 2017
This story started out strong. I liked the premise because it was new and fresh to me. The characters weren't bad either even though I didn't care too much for all the PoV hopping. It was a bit confusing at the start because you don't know anything about the characters. I would like to say that the character progression gets better but it doesn't.
The personalities of all the characters are shallow and underdeveloped. They started out interesting and then they just got on my nerves. First off, the chicks in this book are so bitchy! They sniff and stick their nose in the air all the time and always snap at the male MC, Diarmuid.
They like to snipe at him calling him dumb and clueless because he doesn't get why he upset them but quite frankly I was in the same boat as him. Those girls need to chill the heck out. It's not like he called them fat or slutty. The only tolerable character was Owain and we never get his PoV! I was sad that didn't happen as I think it would have been good and made the book more tolerable!
Another thing that bugged the fuck out of me was that everyone felt betrayed. These characters were put into circumstances they couldn't avoid or control so why does anyone feel betrayed? 'Oh I didn't know that dog was a woman! I feel so betrayed!'. 'Even though I was in dog form how could he not know I was a human woman? I feel so betrayed!'. 'I keep my secrets and seem shifty but when you think I might fork you over for my own benefit I feel so betrayed!'.
Ugh... Just ugh! This book was 100 pages too long. I couldn't wait for it to end! It's sad that it started out so promising and then descended into such drivel. And the romance was just pathetic. It makes no sense at all! How do you fall in love with someone that you knew as a dog for nearly your entire journey? It's pretty weird. Not to mention that when he looks at her later he can still see the dog face superimposed on her human one. EW! No thank you.
Needless to say I will not be continuing this series. If the stupidity of the characters in this is any indication of how the next book will be then I shall pass. This authors writing style just isn't for me.
The personalities of all the characters are shallow and underdeveloped. They started out interesting and then they just got on my nerves. First off, the chicks in this book are so bitchy! They sniff and stick their nose in the air all the time and always snap at the male MC, Diarmuid.
They like to snipe at him calling him dumb and clueless because he doesn't get why he upset them but quite frankly I was in the same boat as him. Those girls need to chill the heck out. It's not like he called them fat or slutty. The only tolerable character was Owain and we never get his PoV! I was sad that didn't happen as I think it would have been good and made the book more tolerable!
Another thing that bugged the fuck out of me was that everyone felt betrayed. These characters were put into circumstances they couldn't avoid or control so why does anyone feel betrayed? 'Oh I didn't know that dog was a woman! I feel so betrayed!'. 'Even though I was in dog form how could he not know I was a human woman? I feel so betrayed!'. 'I keep my secrets and seem shifty but when you think I might fork you over for my own benefit I feel so betrayed!'.
Ugh... Just ugh! This book was 100 pages too long. I couldn't wait for it to end! It's sad that it started out so promising and then descended into such drivel. And the romance was just pathetic. It makes no sense at all! How do you fall in love with someone that you knew as a dog for nearly your entire journey? It's pretty weird. Not to mention that when he looks at her later he can still see the dog face superimposed on her human one. EW! No thank you.
Needless to say I will not be continuing this series. If the stupidity of the characters in this is any indication of how the next book will be then I shall pass. This authors writing style just isn't for me.
April 12, 2020
An folk-tale type fantasy based in Irish/Celtic mythology by an Australian author is not what I would have guessed from the title, but it worked and made for a very enjoyable read.
The story tells of Diarmuid, the youngest son of a local landowner, who also happens to be the seventh son of a seventh son. It becomes apparent that despite his connection to the land through the family business, Diarmuid is more interested in being a bard, a teller of tales, and his greatest wish is to create stories to be told at special events and long, winter nights which will educate them, warning them of the dangers that exist in the world, mainly from the the Fay, but also from the worst parts of their own nature. Unknown to him, though, until he announces to the family his intention to be a bard, the profession runs in his family and every seventh son in the family has been a bard, even his father who started down that path and then abandoned it because of the family curse: the stories that they tell come to life.
The problem is that Diarmuid has already begun this process of creation, having imagined a muse and called her Ida, a willowy, but sharp, female figure who perceives the world for him and feeds him ideas and stories about what he sees in the world. By the time he is told of his powers, it is too late, for Ida has become strong enough to take on physical form, escape his mind, and make her own way in the world, wreaking havoc as she goes. With guidance from his older brother, Fiachra, who is a druid, he must go after her and stop her. However, the fey are working behind the scenes to assist him, and send three people to help him: Brigit, daughter of a local wise woman who also has the gift but is young and wayward; Owain, a mercenary with a heart of gold; and Rhiwallon, a young woman on the run from something or someone.
Ms Quillinan has something of the bard herself, telling a good tale. The story has good pace, balances the tension nicely, and moves the reader with the characters to places that are not expected, but which produce surprising and satisfying results. The characters are not deep, but they do grow and develop through the course of the story, and their journeys are very much the reader’s as well. The story is told mainly from Diarmuid’s perspective, although the viewpoint does jump to Brigit and occasionally to Ida as well, giving an insight into their thoughts and role in the story.
What is apparent through this telling is the fable of the writer, the storyteller. It is a cautionary tale of the danger that lurks in the heart and mind of the storyteller. Their dedication to the tale can be their undoing; the things they imagine can unleash a power on the world, making things possible which previously were not, and the responsibility that goes with that gift. In this, Ms Quillinan does a very good job of educating the reader and showing how important the gift of storytelling is in, but how necessary it is to use it wisely.
While “Muse” can be read as a standalone, there is a novel which follows, “Fey”, which tells the story of Diarmuid’s younger sister, Eithne. The series is completed in the book, “Druid”. However, in addition to this, there are two other novellas, “Bard” and “Swan”, telling the story of Diarmuid’s father and his six brothers.
The story tells of Diarmuid, the youngest son of a local landowner, who also happens to be the seventh son of a seventh son. It becomes apparent that despite his connection to the land through the family business, Diarmuid is more interested in being a bard, a teller of tales, and his greatest wish is to create stories to be told at special events and long, winter nights which will educate them, warning them of the dangers that exist in the world, mainly from the the Fay, but also from the worst parts of their own nature. Unknown to him, though, until he announces to the family his intention to be a bard, the profession runs in his family and every seventh son in the family has been a bard, even his father who started down that path and then abandoned it because of the family curse: the stories that they tell come to life.
The problem is that Diarmuid has already begun this process of creation, having imagined a muse and called her Ida, a willowy, but sharp, female figure who perceives the world for him and feeds him ideas and stories about what he sees in the world. By the time he is told of his powers, it is too late, for Ida has become strong enough to take on physical form, escape his mind, and make her own way in the world, wreaking havoc as she goes. With guidance from his older brother, Fiachra, who is a druid, he must go after her and stop her. However, the fey are working behind the scenes to assist him, and send three people to help him: Brigit, daughter of a local wise woman who also has the gift but is young and wayward; Owain, a mercenary with a heart of gold; and Rhiwallon, a young woman on the run from something or someone.
Ms Quillinan has something of the bard herself, telling a good tale. The story has good pace, balances the tension nicely, and moves the reader with the characters to places that are not expected, but which produce surprising and satisfying results. The characters are not deep, but they do grow and develop through the course of the story, and their journeys are very much the reader’s as well. The story is told mainly from Diarmuid’s perspective, although the viewpoint does jump to Brigit and occasionally to Ida as well, giving an insight into their thoughts and role in the story.
What is apparent through this telling is the fable of the writer, the storyteller. It is a cautionary tale of the danger that lurks in the heart and mind of the storyteller. Their dedication to the tale can be their undoing; the things they imagine can unleash a power on the world, making things possible which previously were not, and the responsibility that goes with that gift. In this, Ms Quillinan does a very good job of educating the reader and showing how important the gift of storytelling is in, but how necessary it is to use it wisely.
While “Muse” can be read as a standalone, there is a novel which follows, “Fey”, which tells the story of Diarmuid’s younger sister, Eithne. The series is completed in the book, “Druid”. However, in addition to this, there are two other novellas, “Bard” and “Swan”, telling the story of Diarmuid’s father and his six brothers.
July 19, 2017
Well the story idea itself wasn't bad....
Mostly I really hated the main character. Throughout the entire book he doesn't see what's right in front of his face until another character in the story points it out for him, and even then he's full of denial and disbelief. He also always acts like the victim no matter what happens. He meets people, makes assumptions about who they are, then he acts like they betrayed him by being different than he had assumed.
I even yelled at him out loud while I was reading because I got so frustrated with these things. I enjoyed every character in the book more than him, and he's certainly not anyone I would like to know personally (always a fail with a protagonist).
But other than that the story itself was extremely predictable. Not one mystery I hadn't already figured out the answer to immediately (other than the actions of the main character, which eventually fell into its own predictability- just assume he's going to act like an ignorant, spoiled child). Basically I felt I was just waiting most of the book for the characters to fulfill what I already knew was coming.
A lot could have been done with this story line and with the characters that wasn't and for that I was left extremely disappointed.
Mostly I really hated the main character. Throughout the entire book he doesn't see what's right in front of his face until another character in the story points it out for him, and even then he's full of denial and disbelief. He also always acts like the victim no matter what happens. He meets people, makes assumptions about who they are, then he acts like they betrayed him by being different than he had assumed.
I even yelled at him out loud while I was reading because I got so frustrated with these things. I enjoyed every character in the book more than him, and he's certainly not anyone I would like to know personally (always a fail with a protagonist).
But other than that the story itself was extremely predictable. Not one mystery I hadn't already figured out the answer to immediately (other than the actions of the main character, which eventually fell into its own predictability- just assume he's going to act like an ignorant, spoiled child). Basically I felt I was just waiting most of the book for the characters to fulfill what I already knew was coming.
A lot could have been done with this story line and with the characters that wasn't and for that I was left extremely disappointed.
November 11, 2020
Loved it, hooked from page one.
No one knows what goes through someone's head until the demons are released into the real world. For the main male character I sympathised for the guy. Telling tales not knowing the demons in his head controlled him, family that kept him in the dark about his ability until it was too late and the chaos he unleashed into the world thus his MUSE.
His denial at first made me skeptic because I didn't want to read about a character full of so many denials you want to slap the light out them. This wasn't so, our main character has a brother who points him to the right path. The path filled with mischievous feys, lady turned dog, a hired killer yet helpful ally and a runaway baby mama to be.
What I loved about this book is that the main character is learning from his mistakes even though he wanted the people around him to be the one to learn from his tales.
Not sure what the baby mama- to- be's temper was for towards the main character so I'm just going to categories that as pregnancy episodes.
The reconciliation in the end was a nice touch, even though our main male character is still someone feared by his family with his dark tales coming true. I still like the fact that he wasn't ridiculed or cast out.
I really liked this book.
No one knows what goes through someone's head until the demons are released into the real world. For the main male character I sympathised for the guy. Telling tales not knowing the demons in his head controlled him, family that kept him in the dark about his ability until it was too late and the chaos he unleashed into the world thus his MUSE.
His denial at first made me skeptic because I didn't want to read about a character full of so many denials you want to slap the light out them. This wasn't so, our main character has a brother who points him to the right path. The path filled with mischievous feys, lady turned dog, a hired killer yet helpful ally and a runaway baby mama to be.
What I loved about this book is that the main character is learning from his mistakes even though he wanted the people around him to be the one to learn from his tales.
Not sure what the baby mama- to- be's temper was for towards the main character so I'm just going to categories that as pregnancy episodes.
The reconciliation in the end was a nice touch, even though our main male character is still someone feared by his family with his dark tales coming true. I still like the fact that he wasn't ridiculed or cast out.
I really liked this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2021
A seventh son of a seventh son who wants to be a bard. A young man with a grudge and no real friends. But then something weird happens: the muse he created in his head comes alive and runs to create havoc elsewhere. The young man is terribly frightful his stories come true and set out to correct things. On his quest he is joined by three other people.
Pre Roman Britain where they eat patatoes????
The book starts off a bit slow and strange but after a quarter the hero goes on a quest and that part if full of riddles and mysteries.
I wonder what symbolism the author had in mind what is Ida. Stress creating bad behavior? That part stays a bit odd but for the rest it is a captivating story that made me think of the computergame I once played what was based on Lord of the Rings.
Weird but intriguing. And written definitely by someone who loves dogs
Pre Roman Britain where they eat patatoes????
The book starts off a bit slow and strange but after a quarter the hero goes on a quest and that part if full of riddles and mysteries.
I wonder what symbolism the author had in mind what is Ida. Stress creating bad behavior? That part stays a bit odd but for the rest it is a captivating story that made me think of the computergame I once played what was based on Lord of the Rings.
Weird but intriguing. And written definitely by someone who loves dogs
June 28, 2017
Decent read, could use more character development
I wish I could give it 3.5 stars, because I'm not sure it's a 4 star but definitely better than three stars. At times the pacing is odd, it plods along for the first three quarters and then the ending comes suddenly. I know there are follow up books and there is something to be said for lead ins to sequels but I feel there was far too much glossed over.
There was very little development in the two main characters. The author is definitely capable of character development since the two "main supporting" characters seem much more rounded out and real.
All of that aside, the story was good and I enjoyed reading it. I look forward to reading the sequels.
I wish I could give it 3.5 stars, because I'm not sure it's a 4 star but definitely better than three stars. At times the pacing is odd, it plods along for the first three quarters and then the ending comes suddenly. I know there are follow up books and there is something to be said for lead ins to sequels but I feel there was far too much glossed over.
There was very little development in the two main characters. The author is definitely capable of character development since the two "main supporting" characters seem much more rounded out and real.
All of that aside, the story was good and I enjoyed reading it. I look forward to reading the sequels.
September 19, 2017
Started off very interesting, I enjoyed the story alot even if the exciting moments seemed a tad rushed while the more mundane events got a lot of pages dedicated to them. My main problem was the main character who I couldn't bring myself to like as he spent a lot of time feeling sorry for himself and the romance made no sense since the girl frequently treats him like an annoyance. Even when told from her POV she states she just wants him to shut up so I can't understand why she would suddenly fall for him. He's a little brat for most of the journey is what I'm getting at.
Good for a light read though and I have hope the rest of the books will be better.
Good for a light read though and I have hope the rest of the books will be better.
May 30, 2017
I picked up a free copy of this book from InstaFreebie.
I really enjoyed reading "Muse". Aside from the elements you'd expect from a fantasy novel, there is an all-encompassing warmth to this story that welcomes you into the book from the first page.
The characters are an interesting bunch... sure to stick in the memory for quite a while!
There's a few typos (mostly "breath" when it should be "breathe") but they are minimal and don't distract too much.
I really enjoyed reading "Muse". Aside from the elements you'd expect from a fantasy novel, there is an all-encompassing warmth to this story that welcomes you into the book from the first page.
The characters are an interesting bunch... sure to stick in the memory for quite a while!
There's a few typos (mostly "breath" when it should be "breathe") but they are minimal and don't distract too much.
June 22, 2020
Diarmuid was born the 7th son of the 7th son - which not only meant that he was destined to be a Bard but in some circumstances his stories can come true. The Muse, Ida, that he created in his mind becomes real and starts compelling people to commit a variety of crimes including murder.
He sets out to stop her and joins with some interesting characters along the way.
The Fae are interfering in the lives of the humans.
He sets out to stop her and joins with some interesting characters along the way.
The Fae are interfering in the lives of the humans.
November 14, 2017
Believable. Must Read
Well written. The author takes you on an amazing journey into the possible or impossible? I was on the journey with the characters. Feeling it. Can't get much better when your in the story. Series but this book can read on it's own. Will enjoy reading the next one. "The Fey". Great job Kylie Quillinan.
Well written. The author takes you on an amazing journey into the possible or impossible? I was on the journey with the characters. Feeling it. Can't get much better when your in the story. Series but this book can read on it's own. Will enjoy reading the next one. "The Fey". Great job Kylie Quillinan.
June 14, 2017
A fine tale of pesonal growth and power.
Kylie has the mastery of the Bard skills. His tale leads us to look at our lives, and how well we follow the path that has been presented to us. I can only hope I have done as well as his characters have.
Kylie has the mastery of the Bard skills. His tale leads us to look at our lives, and how well we follow the path that has been presented to us. I can only hope I have done as well as his characters have.
June 17, 2017
Enchanting
The author has a gift for weaving a tale. Full of adventure and romance and fantasy, this is an engrossing story that takes you for a wonderful ride. Can't wait to read the next.
The author has a gift for weaving a tale. Full of adventure and romance and fantasy, this is an engrossing story that takes you for a wonderful ride. Can't wait to read the next.
June 20, 2017
Kept me entertained
I like free books very much, especially unusual ones, with a different tale to tell, and this certainly fulfilled that criteria. Very enjoyable, loved the historical text, thank you.
I like free books very much, especially unusual ones, with a different tale to tell, and this certainly fulfilled that criteria. Very enjoyable, loved the historical text, thank you.
July 8, 2017
Received a copy from Instafreebie for review.
It sounded quite good on the blurb and I managed to get 32% through, burt when one of the characters changed - that did it for me I could no longer get onto it and I had to give up.
Not for me.
It sounded quite good on the blurb and I managed to get 32% through, burt when one of the characters changed - that did it for me I could no longer get onto it and I had to give up.
Not for me.
July 13, 2017
I really enjoyed this book - the characters are well developed and the story being told through each ones perspective was a nice break from the norm. The book starts out a little slow but pace picks up after a few chapters. Looking forward to reading the next two books.
July 27, 2017
Lost in Thought
I have given Muse a 3 rating because of the length of time the storyline took to grab my attention. The book was entertaining but too long. The storyline seemed at times, "Lost in Thought".
I have given Muse a 3 rating because of the length of time the storyline took to grab my attention. The book was entertaining but too long. The storyline seemed at times, "Lost in Thought".
August 28, 2017
Excellent Read
This book was very well written. It is full of magic, adventure, friendship, fairies, monsters, and a dragon. It just doesn't get better than this. I highly recommend this book. And I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
This book was very well written. It is full of magic, adventure, friendship, fairies, monsters, and a dragon. It just doesn't get better than this. I highly recommend this book. And I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
September 19, 2017
Enjoyable story of a challenging quest where nothing is as it first appears.
A changing story that brings out the he reality is that words can hurt in unexpected ways even if you do not know that is so.
A changing story that brings out the he reality is that words can hurt in unexpected ways even if you do not know that is so.
November 25, 2017
3.5 star
Ending leaves a bit more open than I'd like... A little hook-y... But primary quest resolved. Writing good except for use of I instead of me. MC initially very difficult to connect with, so was tempted to give up. It improved. 3.5 star
Ending leaves a bit more open than I'd like... A little hook-y... But primary quest resolved. Writing good except for use of I instead of me. MC initially very difficult to connect with, so was tempted to give up. It improved. 3.5 star
February 3, 2019
Muse
The story started kind of slow but eventually I was hooked and had to see the end. It stands alone as a story, not a big hook at the end forcing you to buy the next in the series.
The story started kind of slow but eventually I was hooked and had to see the end. It stands alone as a story, not a big hook at the end forcing you to buy the next in the series.
July 31, 2019
i really enjoyed the celtic references and the story romped along, i wanted to read more simply to find out what happens next, all in all a good story, a good yarn, with for me anyway enough dealings with the spiritual and the supernatural to keep me hooked.
March 10, 2020
I loved the medieval feel to this story. The characters and worldbuilding are great, and the ending was a surprise to me. The pacing was a little slow for my taste, but it was a good book and I would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy.
June 14, 2017
Not very good
I am glad that this was free. Starts out okay but then goes downhill. Dismal, boring characters. Really drags out towards the end. Will not be reading further.
I am glad that this was free. Starts out okay but then goes downhill. Dismal, boring characters. Really drags out towards the end. Will not be reading further.
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