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Celtic Witches #1
The Connelly Boys
The Connelly boys are practically royalty at St. Andrew’s Prep. Popular, wealthy, and devastatingly beautiful, the four brothers have long cast a spell over their classmates and over the sleepy seaport town of Rosalyn Bay, Ireland.
There’s just one problem: they’re also cursed.
...Or so the rumors say.
Seventeen-year-old newcomer Scarlet Monroe has never been one for rumors, but when she inadvertently banishes a demon while trying to help eldest brother Jack Connelly, the most breathtaking of the boys and the one to whom she feels inexplicably drawn, she quickly discovers there may be more to the local superstitions and folklore than she originally thought.
Before long, the Connellys pull her into a dark and mysterious world filled with ancient magic, powerful spells, kidnapped souls, and deadly enemies. But none of it compares to Scarlet discovering the truth of who she really is...or what she’ll have to become to defeat a rising evil older than humankind itself before she loses everyone she loves—that is, of course, if she can survive the world of the Connellys long enough.
Don’t miss this first installment in the new dark fantasy series by Lily Velez, which features Irish folklore, Celtic mythology, mystery and light romance, and an engrossing world of witches and magic that will keep you reading long into the night!
There’s just one problem: they’re also cursed.
...Or so the rumors say.
Seventeen-year-old newcomer Scarlet Monroe has never been one for rumors, but when she inadvertently banishes a demon while trying to help eldest brother Jack Connelly, the most breathtaking of the boys and the one to whom she feels inexplicably drawn, she quickly discovers there may be more to the local superstitions and folklore than she originally thought.
Before long, the Connellys pull her into a dark and mysterious world filled with ancient magic, powerful spells, kidnapped souls, and deadly enemies. But none of it compares to Scarlet discovering the truth of who she really is...or what she’ll have to become to defeat a rising evil older than humankind itself before she loses everyone she loves—that is, of course, if she can survive the world of the Connellys long enough.
Don’t miss this first installment in the new dark fantasy series by Lily Velez, which features Irish folklore, Celtic mythology, mystery and light romance, and an engrossing world of witches and magic that will keep you reading long into the night!
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Published September 12, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 130 reviews
September 13, 2018
I absolutely loved The Connelly Boys.
Lily Velez is a fantastic writer. The story is fascinating: equal parts action, adventure, and mystery with the cool backdrop of Ireland. The plot is rich with Celtic folklore and magical elements. There is a sweet love story that is almost a whisper in the first book, but I expect it will flourish as the series continues.
I'm excited to read more in this series.
Lily Velez is a fantastic writer. The story is fascinating: equal parts action, adventure, and mystery with the cool backdrop of Ireland. The plot is rich with Celtic folklore and magical elements. There is a sweet love story that is almost a whisper in the first book, but I expect it will flourish as the series continues.
I'm excited to read more in this series.
February 17, 2019
This Book Is A Magical 5 Star Read!!🌟
I was caught up in this book from page one. The main character, Scarlet, is a new pupil at St Andrews all-boys Private Catholic Boarding School in Ireland. Her Dad is a Faculty member although they do take the odd scholarship student of either sex each year - she was a special case as she's a Teachers child!!
Scarlet's Mum had died, four months prior, from cancer. She'd moved from America to live with her Dad whom she barely knew!😢 In her very first lesson she sat next to a striking lad, he stayed completely silent, he didn't even smile at her! She gasped when she noticed a vine of ivy start to grow up a tree branch right in front of her - It was slithering like a snake, moving in an unnatural way. It wasn't caused by the wind or rain pelting the classroom window, she was sure of it!🍁☔🍃
She's trying to connect with her Dad but is unsure if he's taken her in out of obligation only!😕 During a lunch together he suggests she watches the Schools Rugby match that evening & informs her that he's arranged for her to be given a tour by an older Student after they've eaten. This older boy is stiff and kind of full of himself but he seems harmless until they see the most beautifully captivating guy she's ever seen. He becomes quite gossipy & vicious, He has some spiteful things to say that Scarlet finds distasteful!!😡
Attending the Rugby Match is both exhilarating & terrifying!🏉 It's brutal but exciting. She notices the stunningly handsome guy from earlier is the Team Captain, Jack & he seemed to communicate almost silently with what looks to be his brother, Connor. After a particularly vicious tackle by the majority of the opposition, he is limping off the pitch while chaos reigns between all the players. She happens to notice that an opposition player leaves their bench and follows him, he pulls a blade out of his pocket as he stalks behind Jack!!🔪😳 Without thought she gives chase, knowing she must intervene somehow! After a tussle between the three she is pressed against Jack trying to shield him, she's holding her arm out to ward the attacker off - there's a blinding flash of light but the blow from the blade never lands & when she looks he's nowhere to be seen?!😱
This is the start of an amazing journey between Scarlet, Jack & his 3 younger brother's - Conner, Lucas & Rory!!👍 Their story is bewitching, full of an underlying sadness & fight but ultimately it's about family & growth. Scarlet learns things about her heritage she had no idea about, she comes to realise that her journey to Ireland was about more than losing her Mum or even reconnecting with her Dad🍀📜📓 They turn to an old friend, maybe more for Connor, called Zoe. She's a tough cookie but loyal to her core👍😎
This is a truly fabulous read. I was drawn in from start to finish. It has emotional depth without it being completely sombre. Lucas brings a fun lightness even in the darkest of hours, Connor & Zoe are both badass with attitude to spare but have rather explosive tempers and Rory is the quiet & thoughtful soul but I do think he has a core of steel. Jack is walking a tightrope, he's so determined to protect everyone from his curse that he may risk himself to achieve it and then there's Scarlet, she's new - With her immense power, she needs to learn control asap!!🙏✨
This is a new series I can not wait to continue. I can also see this Author making my 'must read' list if her work continues in this high standard. I highly recommend this one to any age group with an interest in the PnR/Fantasy style of genres with Witches, Demons & Irish lore at its core!!👍🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
I was caught up in this book from page one. The main character, Scarlet, is a new pupil at St Andrews all-boys Private Catholic Boarding School in Ireland. Her Dad is a Faculty member although they do take the odd scholarship student of either sex each year - she was a special case as she's a Teachers child!!
Scarlet's Mum had died, four months prior, from cancer. She'd moved from America to live with her Dad whom she barely knew!😢 In her very first lesson she sat next to a striking lad, he stayed completely silent, he didn't even smile at her! She gasped when she noticed a vine of ivy start to grow up a tree branch right in front of her - It was slithering like a snake, moving in an unnatural way. It wasn't caused by the wind or rain pelting the classroom window, she was sure of it!🍁☔🍃
She's trying to connect with her Dad but is unsure if he's taken her in out of obligation only!😕 During a lunch together he suggests she watches the Schools Rugby match that evening & informs her that he's arranged for her to be given a tour by an older Student after they've eaten. This older boy is stiff and kind of full of himself but he seems harmless until they see the most beautifully captivating guy she's ever seen. He becomes quite gossipy & vicious, He has some spiteful things to say that Scarlet finds distasteful!!😡
Attending the Rugby Match is both exhilarating & terrifying!🏉 It's brutal but exciting. She notices the stunningly handsome guy from earlier is the Team Captain, Jack & he seemed to communicate almost silently with what looks to be his brother, Connor. After a particularly vicious tackle by the majority of the opposition, he is limping off the pitch while chaos reigns between all the players. She happens to notice that an opposition player leaves their bench and follows him, he pulls a blade out of his pocket as he stalks behind Jack!!🔪😳 Without thought she gives chase, knowing she must intervene somehow! After a tussle between the three she is pressed against Jack trying to shield him, she's holding her arm out to ward the attacker off - there's a blinding flash of light but the blow from the blade never lands & when she looks he's nowhere to be seen?!😱
This is the start of an amazing journey between Scarlet, Jack & his 3 younger brother's - Conner, Lucas & Rory!!👍 Their story is bewitching, full of an underlying sadness & fight but ultimately it's about family & growth. Scarlet learns things about her heritage she had no idea about, she comes to realise that her journey to Ireland was about more than losing her Mum or even reconnecting with her Dad🍀📜📓 They turn to an old friend, maybe more for Connor, called Zoe. She's a tough cookie but loyal to her core👍😎
This is a truly fabulous read. I was drawn in from start to finish. It has emotional depth without it being completely sombre. Lucas brings a fun lightness even in the darkest of hours, Connor & Zoe are both badass with attitude to spare but have rather explosive tempers and Rory is the quiet & thoughtful soul but I do think he has a core of steel. Jack is walking a tightrope, he's so determined to protect everyone from his curse that he may risk himself to achieve it and then there's Scarlet, she's new - With her immense power, she needs to learn control asap!!🙏✨
This is a new series I can not wait to continue. I can also see this Author making my 'must read' list if her work continues in this high standard. I highly recommend this one to any age group with an interest in the PnR/Fantasy style of genres with Witches, Demons & Irish lore at its core!!👍🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
September 17, 2018
Celtic Witches and Irish lore, what’s not to love!
When Lily Velez announced the new series she was working on, I was so excited that I not only mailed her right away but I also kept an eye out for when the story was finished and I made my way on the ARC-team (Advanced Readers Copy). I didn’t have specific expectations but expected a great story nontheless.
Needless to say I like the content of this story. I’ve been looking forward to reading this for months. But would it be a great read? Fast paced and captivating or not?
Well, I am thrilled that this book was a joy to read as well. I’m gonna keep an eye out for Lily Velez her future books because this made it’s way to my favourites.
I love myself some (hot) romance but the clean romance in this book wasn’t a bummer at all. It’s the right fit for the characters, I believe. It’s nice that they have that slow emotional growth towards each other instead of the instant-swoonworthy-dive-in-the-relationship type of romance. The Connelly brothers are breathtaking in some ways but have their flaws in other and that gives for realistic characters. I especially love Lucas, he made me giggle out loud at times.
The way the story starts and builds made me praise the way the characters and situations were used to deliver all the necessary information without the feel of an info-dump or a lecture from some character. Nor is the protagonist too naïve because with some books the reader is left shouting at the protagonist that he/she is too dumb and naïve 😅
So luckily that’s not the case with this book. The protagonist is a strong girl that is forced to live with her estranged father and if that wasn’t hard enough, she’s enrolled in an all-boys-catholic school (St. Andrews) because the only other school is closed. Said catholic school opens her doors for the other local children and that is why she is one of the mere 12 girls at that school (although we don’t hear about them, they’re not in any of Scarlet’s classes). I do find this believable, what else can be done in a remote neighbourhood.
At her first class Scarlet starts seeing weird things. Things that can’t be according to the laws of physics. And then during the school’s rugby game she sees a boy from the opposing team (the school Xavier) going after the captain of St. Andrews... with a knive. Not knowing what else she can do in that little time span she runs after them to hopefully spook the Xavier boy and hopefully prevent him from using the knive. But once arrivered there there’s something weird about that Xavier boy. And that is the start of a series of events that give her no other option than to dive in this whole other world beneith the surface of the regular world she knows.
A wonderful read, recommend if you love witches and (Irish) myths and folklore. All woven together with great remarks from mr. Lucas Connelly. Although big brother Jack is certainly loveable, Lucas is the one that has the best remarks that make you giggle. Looking forward to the next installment!
When Lily Velez announced the new series she was working on, I was so excited that I not only mailed her right away but I also kept an eye out for when the story was finished and I made my way on the ARC-team (Advanced Readers Copy). I didn’t have specific expectations but expected a great story nontheless.
Needless to say I like the content of this story. I’ve been looking forward to reading this for months. But would it be a great read? Fast paced and captivating or not?
Well, I am thrilled that this book was a joy to read as well. I’m gonna keep an eye out for Lily Velez her future books because this made it’s way to my favourites.
I love myself some (hot) romance but the clean romance in this book wasn’t a bummer at all. It’s the right fit for the characters, I believe. It’s nice that they have that slow emotional growth towards each other instead of the instant-swoonworthy-dive-in-the-relationship type of romance. The Connelly brothers are breathtaking in some ways but have their flaws in other and that gives for realistic characters. I especially love Lucas, he made me giggle out loud at times.
The way the story starts and builds made me praise the way the characters and situations were used to deliver all the necessary information without the feel of an info-dump or a lecture from some character. Nor is the protagonist too naïve because with some books the reader is left shouting at the protagonist that he/she is too dumb and naïve 😅
So luckily that’s not the case with this book. The protagonist is a strong girl that is forced to live with her estranged father and if that wasn’t hard enough, she’s enrolled in an all-boys-catholic school (St. Andrews) because the only other school is closed. Said catholic school opens her doors for the other local children and that is why she is one of the mere 12 girls at that school (although we don’t hear about them, they’re not in any of Scarlet’s classes). I do find this believable, what else can be done in a remote neighbourhood.
At her first class Scarlet starts seeing weird things. Things that can’t be according to the laws of physics. And then during the school’s rugby game she sees a boy from the opposing team (the school Xavier) going after the captain of St. Andrews... with a knive. Not knowing what else she can do in that little time span she runs after them to hopefully spook the Xavier boy and hopefully prevent him from using the knive. But once arrivered there there’s something weird about that Xavier boy. And that is the start of a series of events that give her no other option than to dive in this whole other world beneith the surface of the regular world she knows.
A wonderful read, recommend if you love witches and (Irish) myths and folklore. All woven together with great remarks from mr. Lucas Connelly. Although big brother Jack is certainly loveable, Lucas is the one that has the best remarks that make you giggle. Looking forward to the next installment!
December 3, 2018
There was quite a lot of world-building, it was well thought out. The author did a good job weaving in Celtic lore into the story. The character building needed more though, I just didn't feel any of our characters were 3 dimensional, there just needed to be more to them. I also feel this was a bit on the slow side and could be pared down some. This had a bit of the same feel as The Raven Cycle but not quite as dynamic and quite a bit slower.
October 6, 2018
Thank you to Lily Velez for providing me with an ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
The Connelly Boys is Lily Velez’s debut novel and is a YA fantasy tale rich in Irish mythology and Celtic folklore that is equal parts action and mystery.
Seventeen year old Scarlet Monroe is still grieving the loss of her mother when she moves to Ireland from America to live with her estranged father. Though she hasn’t seen him for years, Scarlet is determined to make things work with her dad, but nothing can prepare her for the trouble coming her way. Beginning at a new school, Scarlet finds herself drawn to the dark and mysterious Jack Connelly, one of four brothers who are seen as cursed by the small seaside town of Rosalyn Bay. Then Scarlet saves Jack’s life from a demon and finds herself drawn into an ancient world of magic and spell craft. As witches, the Connelly brothers possess powerful abilities, but something dark and deadly is happening within the witch clans and Scarlet quickly discovers that she has a role in it and a destiny she never expected…..
The Connelly Boys is a hard novel for me to review; mainly because I can’t quite wrap my head around the way I feel about the story. Having been offered the opportunity to read an eARC thanks to the author, I was super excited to read The Connelly Boys. To begin with, the cover is absolutely stunning and the description really made me excited to dive into the story, yet even though I did ultimately enjoy The Connelly Boy’s there was something missing from the novel to take it to the next level.
From the very beginning of the novel Lily Velez draws you in effortlessly. The detailed and flowing writing is spot on and precise; the dialogue sharp and intelligent. Velez takes inspiration from a lot of Irish mythology and weaves it’s folklore and history into her story with beautiful results; creating a detailed storyline that offers readers a glimpse into a world of witches with a rich and vivid history seeped in Celtic history.
I feel like Lily Velez put a lot of thought and effort into creating the world within The Connelly Boys. I can’t fault her world building and the backstory she has created, but I still felt somewhat disconnected from the characters and even the storyline at times. The Connelly brothers reminded me of the raven boys from Maggie Steifvater’s Raven Cycle so I appreciated their aura of magic and mystery but I was still waiting for that extra spark.
As the protagonist, Scarlett fits her role well but also seemed very cardboard cut-out as a main character. Lily Velez writes Scarlett as a very normal teenage girl drawn into a world of witches and witchcraft who has a destiny she never expected. Personally I’m hoping to see a lot more growth in Scarlett but given what she has faced already I do feel she is holding her own.
Overall, even though I had difficulty connecting with the story, The Connelly Boys was worth a read. As a first novel it does a lot to set up the storyline and explain the history of its world and I do feel the series has potential. Well written but with a languid pace, I’m interested to see what Lily Velez does next and am hoping that I may connect a little bit more a second time around and I feel there are a lot of readers out there who will truly adore this novel.
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
The Connelly Boys is Lily Velez’s debut novel and is a YA fantasy tale rich in Irish mythology and Celtic folklore that is equal parts action and mystery.
Seventeen year old Scarlet Monroe is still grieving the loss of her mother when she moves to Ireland from America to live with her estranged father. Though she hasn’t seen him for years, Scarlet is determined to make things work with her dad, but nothing can prepare her for the trouble coming her way. Beginning at a new school, Scarlet finds herself drawn to the dark and mysterious Jack Connelly, one of four brothers who are seen as cursed by the small seaside town of Rosalyn Bay. Then Scarlet saves Jack’s life from a demon and finds herself drawn into an ancient world of magic and spell craft. As witches, the Connelly brothers possess powerful abilities, but something dark and deadly is happening within the witch clans and Scarlet quickly discovers that she has a role in it and a destiny she never expected…..
The Connelly Boys is a hard novel for me to review; mainly because I can’t quite wrap my head around the way I feel about the story. Having been offered the opportunity to read an eARC thanks to the author, I was super excited to read The Connelly Boys. To begin with, the cover is absolutely stunning and the description really made me excited to dive into the story, yet even though I did ultimately enjoy The Connelly Boy’s there was something missing from the novel to take it to the next level.
From the very beginning of the novel Lily Velez draws you in effortlessly. The detailed and flowing writing is spot on and precise; the dialogue sharp and intelligent. Velez takes inspiration from a lot of Irish mythology and weaves it’s folklore and history into her story with beautiful results; creating a detailed storyline that offers readers a glimpse into a world of witches with a rich and vivid history seeped in Celtic history.
I feel like Lily Velez put a lot of thought and effort into creating the world within The Connelly Boys. I can’t fault her world building and the backstory she has created, but I still felt somewhat disconnected from the characters and even the storyline at times. The Connelly brothers reminded me of the raven boys from Maggie Steifvater’s Raven Cycle so I appreciated their aura of magic and mystery but I was still waiting for that extra spark.
As the protagonist, Scarlett fits her role well but also seemed very cardboard cut-out as a main character. Lily Velez writes Scarlett as a very normal teenage girl drawn into a world of witches and witchcraft who has a destiny she never expected. Personally I’m hoping to see a lot more growth in Scarlett but given what she has faced already I do feel she is holding her own.
Overall, even though I had difficulty connecting with the story, The Connelly Boys was worth a read. As a first novel it does a lot to set up the storyline and explain the history of its world and I do feel the series has potential. Well written but with a languid pace, I’m interested to see what Lily Velez does next and am hoping that I may connect a little bit more a second time around and I feel there are a lot of readers out there who will truly adore this novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2019
**Review can be found at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/ **
After suffering the loss of her Mom, Scarlet is sent to Ireland to live with her estranged father. To make matters worse, she now has to attend the elite boarding school her father works at, which just so happens to be all boys and the only school in the area. Scarlet is counting down the days until she can graduate from high school and move back to the states. But then she encounters the Connelly brothers, and everything changes.
I seriously love this book. Really, everything about it appeals to me. Be it the fantastic strong female main character who has some terrible truths and experiences and just comes out even more determined and powerful- I may have wanted to butt in and hug her occasionally with the strong moments of sadness, but she held her own in every unknown situation. To the magical world with hidden libraries, crazy powers, Irish setting and history. Or the non-stop action with this rag-tag group facing one dangerous encounter after another be it with demons, the slaugh, witch hunters or an ultimate evil closer to home. And it doesn't hurt that the book package is very pretty with that cover!
And last but not least, the boys. Sure Scarlet has herself four man-friend companions, but this is no way a reverse harem which I was very happy about. There was a slow burn, not sure anything would happen relationship with one brother (who took on too mush responsibility and saw the good in everyone regardless if he should). Another brother is a good friend (and my favorite!), one has some moderate hostility towards Scarlet (and maybe the world in general) and the last barely even acknowledges her presence (not out of any malice, just due to personality). The dynamic between the group as well as between Scarlet and each of the boys individually was perfection. I will admit that I spent a majority of the book (at 400 pages it was chock full of stuff) waiting for a certain romance to take place, but that in no way was the point of the story, and really I am ok with that since I had so many other great plot moments to get sucked into.
This book was overall Scarlet's discover of what she is, what she is capable of and what she is willing to for those she loves. I can't wait to see what will happen next with Scarlet and her gang, but I feel really stressed for them since everything seems to have an expiration date and the clock is ticking...
After suffering the loss of her Mom, Scarlet is sent to Ireland to live with her estranged father. To make matters worse, she now has to attend the elite boarding school her father works at, which just so happens to be all boys and the only school in the area. Scarlet is counting down the days until she can graduate from high school and move back to the states. But then she encounters the Connelly brothers, and everything changes.
This time, as I leaned against him, a tear did escape me, rolling slowly down my cheek. I was surprised by the show of emotion, but then, I had just nearly been killed by an extremist group mere days ago. I had just made a bargain with a demon I wasn’t sure I could entirely trust. And the one thing that could bind the Reaper and help my dad continued to elude us, leaving everyone’s morale at an all-time low. Throw in a spell of insomnia, and it was any wonder I wasn’t outright bawling. I’d known people to have bigger outbursts just from missing a meal.
I seriously love this book. Really, everything about it appeals to me. Be it the fantastic strong female main character who has some terrible truths and experiences and just comes out even more determined and powerful- I may have wanted to butt in and hug her occasionally with the strong moments of sadness, but she held her own in every unknown situation. To the magical world with hidden libraries, crazy powers, Irish setting and history. Or the non-stop action with this rag-tag group facing one dangerous encounter after another be it with demons, the slaugh, witch hunters or an ultimate evil closer to home. And it doesn't hurt that the book package is very pretty with that cover!
And last but not least, the boys. Sure Scarlet has herself four man-friend companions, but this is no way a reverse harem which I was very happy about. There was a slow burn, not sure anything would happen relationship with one brother (who took on too mush responsibility and saw the good in everyone regardless if he should). Another brother is a good friend (and my favorite!), one has some moderate hostility towards Scarlet (and maybe the world in general) and the last barely even acknowledges her presence (not out of any malice, just due to personality). The dynamic between the group as well as between Scarlet and each of the boys individually was perfection. I will admit that I spent a majority of the book (at 400 pages it was chock full of stuff) waiting for a certain romance to take place, but that in no way was the point of the story, and really I am ok with that since I had so many other great plot moments to get sucked into.
This book was overall Scarlet's discover of what she is, what she is capable of and what she is willing to for those she loves. I can't wait to see what will happen next with Scarlet and her gang, but I feel really stressed for them since everything seems to have an expiration date and the clock is ticking...
March 28, 2019
The Connelly Boys is the first book in the Celtic Witches serie by Lily Velez.
The Connelly Boys is about 17 year old Scarlet who moves to a sleepy town Ireland after her mom passes away to live with her father. There she meets the Connelly Boys. She especially feels drawn to the oldest, Jack. Before she knows it she is tangled up in their dark and mysterious world.
I really loved the story and the writing style. I loved Scarlet and I can't wait to see where Scarlet and Jack's relationship is going. This was my first book by Lily Velez and I can wait to start the second book!
The Connelly Boys is about 17 year old Scarlet who moves to a sleepy town Ireland after her mom passes away to live with her father. There she meets the Connelly Boys. She especially feels drawn to the oldest, Jack. Before she knows it she is tangled up in their dark and mysterious world.
I really loved the story and the writing style. I loved Scarlet and I can't wait to see where Scarlet and Jack's relationship is going. This was my first book by Lily Velez and I can wait to start the second book!
February 4, 2019
I loved this book. Flat out, I loved it. Especially the inclusion of so much History & Lore and the uses of some plants & stones that are used in Wiccan practice today. I was only disappointed when I got to the end because the second book hasn't been released yet! The worst thing I have to say was the first 4-5 chapters were a little slow, BUT that may have simply been because I was working on my own novel at the same time, so my mind could have been elsewhere. Definitely a book to recommend & add to YA w/ Witches books.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2018
An educational look into Celtic witches. This started great but had a couple slow spots and I even skimmed a few paragraphs. Sorry. I just didn’t love it. It was good enough to finish but I’m not feeling any drive to read another one. The romance was clean but also slow and dry.
March 18, 2019
I am probably in the minority...but I love Kai. That is the story I want..between him and Scarlet.
Lucas and his mischief is also another bright spot in this first novel for me.
A lot of mythology from Ireland within these pages.
I am very excited to see where this next novel takes the characters. A very complex story that I am excited to continue!
Lucas and his mischief is also another bright spot in this first novel for me.
A lot of mythology from Ireland within these pages.
I am very excited to see where this next novel takes the characters. A very complex story that I am excited to continue!
dnf
March 11, 2024I am not dnf-ing it because it is bad per se. I'm just 12 Chapters in and it has yet to really hook me so I am passing on to another book that can hold my attention better. So maybe this just wasn't for me.
July 19, 2019
I loved this book! It was such a good story!
From reading the summary, I assumed the book would be a YA romance with magic splashed in, and the Connellys would be entitled jerks who rule the school. I was so wrong on both counts. Not to say I don’t like those troupes, it was just really nice to read something new.
This book is about magic, witches, Druids, and demons. The magic was not splashed in, it was center-stage throughout and infused in the best way. It was also like a history lesson of the Druids of Ireland and the witch trials that took place not just in Salem, but all over the world. It was so interesting to read about; I was hooked, and I loved it.
The characters were amazing and well thought-out. I loved Scarlett from the start. She learned so much about herself and her heritage, and she is a great protagonist. The Connellys were also amazing. Jack, Connor, Lucas, Rory - I can’t wait to read more about them. Plus, Kai! I really can’t wait to read more about him.
The momentum of this book was great. Things kept happening, and the story never slowed down or got boring. It also took place all over Ireland, and it was such a great setting.
This book was thought-out, empowering, and interesting. I loved it, and I cannot wait to read more.
From reading the summary, I assumed the book would be a YA romance with magic splashed in, and the Connellys would be entitled jerks who rule the school. I was so wrong on both counts. Not to say I don’t like those troupes, it was just really nice to read something new.
This book is about magic, witches, Druids, and demons. The magic was not splashed in, it was center-stage throughout and infused in the best way. It was also like a history lesson of the Druids of Ireland and the witch trials that took place not just in Salem, but all over the world. It was so interesting to read about; I was hooked, and I loved it.
The characters were amazing and well thought-out. I loved Scarlett from the start. She learned so much about herself and her heritage, and she is a great protagonist. The Connellys were also amazing. Jack, Connor, Lucas, Rory - I can’t wait to read more about them. Plus, Kai! I really can’t wait to read more about him.
The momentum of this book was great. Things kept happening, and the story never slowed down or got boring. It also took place all over Ireland, and it was such a great setting.
This book was thought-out, empowering, and interesting. I loved it, and I cannot wait to read more.
March 5, 2019
Being one of the handful of girls in the entire school stinks. But seventeen year old Scarlet Monroe has little choice in the matter. Everything in her world has changed recently. Her mom died after a long battle with cancer. She had to move to Ireland to live with her father, whom she barely knows. And now she has to go to the school where her father teaches. So here she is, a female in an elite all-boys Catholic Prep school just trying to make it through the day without incident.
Choosing a seat next to a boy who seems indifferent, she gazes out the window while doodling because she doesn’t even have the required books. When she sees a vine moving in a tree as if it is a snake, she assumes she is losing it. Shaking her head, she tries to listen to the professor and ignore the strange sight.
During a tour of the campus, Scarlet sees a guy she can’t take her eyes off of. Her tour guide warns her away from Jack Connelly, stating that he is cursed and that his entire family is probably cursed as well. Recently, the grandfather that is raising him and his brothers jumped off a cliff to his death, leaving the boys in the care of their uncle. Scarlet is shocked, but still feels inexplicitly drawn to Jack.
As soon as Scarlet and Jack meet, she begins to encounter things that are much more intense than moving vines. The infamous Connelly Boys – Jack, Conner, Lucas and Rory would soon become her unwilling allies and friends. Could the rumors about them being supernatural beings actually be true? And how could Scarlet possibly be a part of the world that has powers that most humans do not have or want. But she will do anything to help the father she is just beginning to care about even if it ends up being an epic battle of good versus evil.
This YA Urban Fantasy is full of action, twists and turns as the teens are called upon to save their loved ones using ancient spells, weapons and their own ingenuity. Valez writes one of the best battle scenes between demons and witches I have ever read. It is as if the Harry Potter series and the Sookie Stackhouse series had babies for our reading pleasure.
The characters are rich and complex. I was surprised and pleased to find out the identity of the person orchestrating the evil. When the character was revealed, it absolutely made sense but I didn’t figure it out beforehand, which delights me to no end.
This is the first book in the Celtic Witch Series. It is also the first book I have read by Ms. Velez. I cannot wait to read book #2 in the series.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Author and Bookfunnel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Choosing a seat next to a boy who seems indifferent, she gazes out the window while doodling because she doesn’t even have the required books. When she sees a vine moving in a tree as if it is a snake, she assumes she is losing it. Shaking her head, she tries to listen to the professor and ignore the strange sight.
During a tour of the campus, Scarlet sees a guy she can’t take her eyes off of. Her tour guide warns her away from Jack Connelly, stating that he is cursed and that his entire family is probably cursed as well. Recently, the grandfather that is raising him and his brothers jumped off a cliff to his death, leaving the boys in the care of their uncle. Scarlet is shocked, but still feels inexplicitly drawn to Jack.
As soon as Scarlet and Jack meet, she begins to encounter things that are much more intense than moving vines. The infamous Connelly Boys – Jack, Conner, Lucas and Rory would soon become her unwilling allies and friends. Could the rumors about them being supernatural beings actually be true? And how could Scarlet possibly be a part of the world that has powers that most humans do not have or want. But she will do anything to help the father she is just beginning to care about even if it ends up being an epic battle of good versus evil.
This YA Urban Fantasy is full of action, twists and turns as the teens are called upon to save their loved ones using ancient spells, weapons and their own ingenuity. Valez writes one of the best battle scenes between demons and witches I have ever read. It is as if the Harry Potter series and the Sookie Stackhouse series had babies for our reading pleasure.
The characters are rich and complex. I was surprised and pleased to find out the identity of the person orchestrating the evil. When the character was revealed, it absolutely made sense but I didn’t figure it out beforehand, which delights me to no end.
This is the first book in the Celtic Witch Series. It is also the first book I have read by Ms. Velez. I cannot wait to read book #2 in the series.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Author and Bookfunnel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 28, 2018
Note: I received a copy of this book and I voluntarily give this review.
The Connelly Boys is a fascinating read that is full of magic and adventure.
Scarlet Monroe's world has just been turned upside down. After a devastating tragedy, she is now moving to Ireland to live with a dad she hardly knows and to attend a mostly male boarding school. While there she encounters the Connelly brothers and she will learn the truth behind the nasty rumors floating around town. These boys are rich and beautiful and maybe even a little dangerous. Scarlet is about to enter a magical world that is as dangerous and it is enchanting.
Lets start with the characters. Scarlet is not the character I expected, she didn't seem like the type to get herself involved in things, she seem more of the shy type at first. Heck she was kinda shy at first but then she just jumps into the fray and while she is not as outspoken as other female protagonist she does manage to hold her own and grow throughout the book.
I found all the brothers to be interesting but I wished that Lily could have dived more into who they were as a group, the camaraderie that brothers have, and while I know the gist of each brothers personality I wish I could have gotten to know the youngest brother a little more. Rory was down played in this book and I hope the we learn more about him and the rest in the next book. Jack is the protective big brother the martyr, a role he was sort of born into. Jack is the leader of this little group and he needs them as much as they need him.
I really enjoyed The Connelly Boys, there was so many references to Irish mythology and I am a sucker for mythology. Plus all the magic, the scenes with the magic flying about with detailed accounts added something to the story for me. The plot was good, I did figure out what was going on early on but I still didn't know how the characters ended up the way that they did and it was interesting to see them get to that point. Also the book ended on a cliffhanger so I am excited to find out what's going to happen in the next book.
The Connelly Boys was a bit of a read but I ate it up. It was had action, magic, history, mythology, a little romance, ghosts, betrayals and demons that made the read very interesting. The next book is called the Connelly Curse and I just hoping for more Irish mythology.
Overall 3.75
The Connelly Boys is a fascinating read that is full of magic and adventure.
Scarlet Monroe's world has just been turned upside down. After a devastating tragedy, she is now moving to Ireland to live with a dad she hardly knows and to attend a mostly male boarding school. While there she encounters the Connelly brothers and she will learn the truth behind the nasty rumors floating around town. These boys are rich and beautiful and maybe even a little dangerous. Scarlet is about to enter a magical world that is as dangerous and it is enchanting.
Lets start with the characters. Scarlet is not the character I expected, she didn't seem like the type to get herself involved in things, she seem more of the shy type at first. Heck she was kinda shy at first but then she just jumps into the fray and while she is not as outspoken as other female protagonist she does manage to hold her own and grow throughout the book.
I found all the brothers to be interesting but I wished that Lily could have dived more into who they were as a group, the camaraderie that brothers have, and while I know the gist of each brothers personality I wish I could have gotten to know the youngest brother a little more. Rory was down played in this book and I hope the we learn more about him and the rest in the next book. Jack is the protective big brother the martyr, a role he was sort of born into. Jack is the leader of this little group and he needs them as much as they need him.
I really enjoyed The Connelly Boys, there was so many references to Irish mythology and I am a sucker for mythology. Plus all the magic, the scenes with the magic flying about with detailed accounts added something to the story for me. The plot was good, I did figure out what was going on early on but I still didn't know how the characters ended up the way that they did and it was interesting to see them get to that point. Also the book ended on a cliffhanger so I am excited to find out what's going to happen in the next book.
The Connelly Boys was a bit of a read but I ate it up. It was had action, magic, history, mythology, a little romance, ghosts, betrayals and demons that made the read very interesting. The next book is called the Connelly Curse and I just hoping for more Irish mythology.
Overall 3.75
March 26, 2019
This book was a lot of fun, and non-stop excitement. I agree with those who have compared it to Shadowhunters, because it is the tale of a girl with a mysterious heritage and magical powers she didn't know she had. She stumbles into a supernatural world, falls for the aloof "golden boy" who is also very powerful, and embarks on a quest to rescue a parent. But that's about the extent of the similarities. For starters, this only deals with witches and demons. There aren't other monsters to contend with (other than various demonic minions).
Sometimes, when your main character doesn't know about her powers, there's a lot of hazy backstory to discover and it can be frustrating. Not so with this book. The characters are wonderfully developed. I found myself reading in my head with an Irish accent, because they were so real to me I could not only picture them but hear them. The mythology of the world is deftly revealed, and we learn about it as our heroine does. It's got intrigue, betrayal, misdirection, and lots of twists - some that you won't see coming and others that you might. I love when there's just enough foreshadowing that something happens and you smack your head as you realize you should have known, or one of your far-fetched theories comes true and has you yelling "I knew it"! There are just enough hints to make it interesting but not enough to give everything away. And although the tale of book 1 is complete, there are still enemies to overcome and mysteries to solve in the next installment. I can't wait.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
Sometimes, when your main character doesn't know about her powers, there's a lot of hazy backstory to discover and it can be frustrating. Not so with this book. The characters are wonderfully developed. I found myself reading in my head with an Irish accent, because they were so real to me I could not only picture them but hear them. The mythology of the world is deftly revealed, and we learn about it as our heroine does. It's got intrigue, betrayal, misdirection, and lots of twists - some that you won't see coming and others that you might. I love when there's just enough foreshadowing that something happens and you smack your head as you realize you should have known, or one of your far-fetched theories comes true and has you yelling "I knew it"! There are just enough hints to make it interesting but not enough to give everything away. And although the tale of book 1 is complete, there are still enemies to overcome and mysteries to solve in the next installment. I can't wait.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
July 12, 2020
Scarlet lost her mother to cancer a few months earlier and now she has moved to Ireland to live with the father she barely knows. She seems pulled to the four Connelly brothers, especially the oldest, Jack. There are rumors about the Connelly family; that they are descended from a witch who was burned and that Jack has his own curse. When Scarlet somehow banishes a demon that was attacking Jack, she begins to discover that she may have some magical powers of her own. After her father is attacked … Scarlet and the Connelly boys must team up and try to save him. What magical truths will Scarlet uncover through these trials? Will she be able to learn enough to save her father?
The Connelly Boys is the first book in the Celtic Witches series. This first book kept making me remember parts of The Raven Cycle, yet it wasn’t the same. Readers will learn about some folklore and traditions while uncovering truths about the characters. There is the fantasy aspect throughout, yet readers will also feel the adventure that fills in the rest of the story. Velez has crafted characters that are multifaceted and easy to root for. Not all of the answers have been given in this first book and readers will want to find the second book, The Connelly Curse, soon after finishing this novel.
The Connelly Boys is the first book in the Celtic Witches series. This first book kept making me remember parts of The Raven Cycle, yet it wasn’t the same. Readers will learn about some folklore and traditions while uncovering truths about the characters. There is the fantasy aspect throughout, yet readers will also feel the adventure that fills in the rest of the story. Velez has crafted characters that are multifaceted and easy to root for. Not all of the answers have been given in this first book and readers will want to find the second book, The Connelly Curse, soon after finishing this novel.
January 17, 2021
3.9 ⭐️
The plot was really good tbh and the very first chapter with Rory moving the branches gets you hooked. This series clearly has lots of potential! The plot twists with Seamus being behind everything and jack having used all of his wishes already were really good! The cliffhanger also seems very promising.
However, I did find myself getting bored while reading a chunk of this book, simply because of how much information was being given. Like every conversation between jack and scarlet was her asking a question about witchcraft and him answering with a paragraph. It goes to show how much thought the author has put into this plot and the backstories, which is nice to see, but maybe if the information could’ve be conveyed with less detail or on a longer span of pages? because I skimmed through a lot of it and some parts, I completely skipped and still understood everything that was going on.
I was also hoping for more romance (there was practically none) but I guess that’s not the main focus of the story.
Finally, I didn’t find myself vibing with any of the brothers, their personalities weren’t all that unique, even Lucas, who was meant to be the charmer and more relaxed one, wasn’t all that interesting. I enjoyed that one scene with Kai, a demon we know nothing about, more than any of the scenes with Connor, Rory, and Lucas
The plot was really good tbh and the very first chapter with Rory moving the branches gets you hooked. This series clearly has lots of potential! The plot twists with Seamus being behind everything and jack having used all of his wishes already were really good! The cliffhanger also seems very promising.
However, I did find myself getting bored while reading a chunk of this book, simply because of how much information was being given. Like every conversation between jack and scarlet was her asking a question about witchcraft and him answering with a paragraph. It goes to show how much thought the author has put into this plot and the backstories, which is nice to see, but maybe if the information could’ve be conveyed with less detail or on a longer span of pages? because I skimmed through a lot of it and some parts, I completely skipped and still understood everything that was going on.
I was also hoping for more romance (there was practically none) but I guess that’s not the main focus of the story.
Finally, I didn’t find myself vibing with any of the brothers, their personalities weren’t all that unique, even Lucas, who was meant to be the charmer and more relaxed one, wasn’t all that interesting. I enjoyed that one scene with Kai, a demon we know nothing about, more than any of the scenes with Connor, Rory, and Lucas
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2018
Lily Velez has created a magical world in The Connelly Boys. Right away, I wanted to know more about these 4 intriguing brothers and their family history. The main character, Scarlet, is relatable and a healthy mix of tough and vulnerable. I always love me a good hot, broody love interest, and Jack was definitely that. What I liked most was the world that was created and the wonderful descriptions of how magic unfolds before Scarlet’s eyes. The story was very fast-paced and action-packed, except for the love story, which seems to be on a slow burn. That doesn’t bother me in general given how much instalove happens these days, but I thought the connection between Scarlet and Jack could have been a little stronger. I also would have liked to see the characters in the school setting or just in the ordinary world a little bit more. It would have made me connect with them more to see them interact with the “Sightless” (AKA normal teens) or do normal teenage things. Once all the action starts, the school (which I was very intrigued by at the start) kind of disappears from the story. Overall though, I enjoyed this read. I commend the author for her imagination and creativity and would recommend this to anyone who enjoys stories with witchcraft, curses, folklore, and family secrets.
September 13, 2018
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review. This was my first opportunity to read a by Lily Velez and I loved it!
From the beginning the development of the story line including the Irish/Celtic folklore, this story captivated my attention. I couldn't put the book down wondering where the story was taking me next. I really loved how different this story was from many I have read recently. It was quite interesting and refreshing!, especially since find the Irish/Celtic so interesting. The backstory development of the characters was very well done and really helped you get to know them. I really like the heroine and the boys you really feel for them, all they have been through and overcome. I can't wait to see what may possibly be in store between two characters that really seem to be there for one another and get each other. I do feel it could use a bit more romance, a bit more oomph.
Thank you Lily Velez for writing such an amazing story, I am eagerly waiting to see what will happen in the next book!
From the beginning the development of the story line including the Irish/Celtic folklore, this story captivated my attention. I couldn't put the book down wondering where the story was taking me next. I really loved how different this story was from many I have read recently. It was quite interesting and refreshing!, especially since find the Irish/Celtic so interesting. The backstory development of the characters was very well done and really helped you get to know them. I really like the heroine and the boys you really feel for them, all they have been through and overcome. I can't wait to see what may possibly be in store between two characters that really seem to be there for one another and get each other. I do feel it could use a bit more romance, a bit more oomph.
Thank you Lily Velez for writing such an amazing story, I am eagerly waiting to see what will happen in the next book!
October 1, 2018
The Connelly boys are practically royalty at St. Andrews prep. They’re popular, wealthy, and devastatingly handsome and they’re both feared and reviled at both their school and in their sleepy little town of Rosalyn Bay, Ireland. They’re feared because, according to many rumors, they’re cursed. New to Rosalyn Bay, seventeen-year- old Scarlet Monroe has never been one to pay much attention to rumors. But, when she rescues the eldest brother, Jack Connelly, by accidentally banishing a demon, she begins to consider whether at least some of the rumors are true. She also can’t help but feel inexplicably drawn to the brothers, especially Jack. It doesn’t take them long before they have pulled Scarlet into a world she never imagined could exist right under her own eyes, a world with ancient magic, powerful spells, kidnapped souls, and deadly enemies. And as surprising as all of that is, it pales in comparison to what she learns about herself, her heritage, and who she really is and is becoming. Now she’s in a race against time as she tries to defeat a rising evil that’s older than humankind itself before she loses everything and everyone she holds dear.
I really enjoyed this book so much. It’s a very simple, fun read. I absolutely love the world that Lily Velez created in both Saint Andrews Prep and the picturesque town of Rosalyn Bay. She did an amazing job with storyline development and wrote amazing characters that I couldn’t help but relate and get attached to. I really enjoyed seeing Scarlet learn about who she was and work to use her powers. Jack and Scarlet are perfect together and Jack’s brothers and Zoe are amazing. I could also see how much work abd research that Lily did into Celtic history and mythology. And, since this appears to be her debut novel, this is definitely an author that we need to keep an eye on!
I’d like to thank Lily Velez for providing me with an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I understand that receiving the book in this manner doesn’t obligate me to leave a positive review.
I really enjoyed this book so much. It’s a very simple, fun read. I absolutely love the world that Lily Velez created in both Saint Andrews Prep and the picturesque town of Rosalyn Bay. She did an amazing job with storyline development and wrote amazing characters that I couldn’t help but relate and get attached to. I really enjoyed seeing Scarlet learn about who she was and work to use her powers. Jack and Scarlet are perfect together and Jack’s brothers and Zoe are amazing. I could also see how much work abd research that Lily did into Celtic history and mythology. And, since this appears to be her debut novel, this is definitely an author that we need to keep an eye on!
I’d like to thank Lily Velez for providing me with an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I understand that receiving the book in this manner doesn’t obligate me to leave a positive review.
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