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Storm Keeper #3
The Storm Keepers' Battle
In the thrilling conclusion to the acclaimed Storm Keeper's Island series, evil sorceress Morrigan rises, and Fionn and his friends must use their wits to save Arranmore Island's future.
Fionn Boyle, Storm Keeper of Arranmore, is facing the fight of his life. The terrifying, all-powerful sorceress Morrigan has risen from the dead and has sealed off the island from all outside help.
Fionn is the only thing that stands between her and a dark future. He's got to find a way to defeat her. But there are some terrible choices in store as the dark sorcerer begins to take his nearest and dearest for her own. With only two magic candles left to burn, will Fionn master his powers in time to stop her? The race is on to save the island from the clutches of evil, before the tide turns on Arranmore for good.
Fionn Boyle, Storm Keeper of Arranmore, is facing the fight of his life. The terrifying, all-powerful sorceress Morrigan has risen from the dead and has sealed off the island from all outside help.
Fionn is the only thing that stands between her and a dark future. He's got to find a way to defeat her. But there are some terrible choices in store as the dark sorcerer begins to take his nearest and dearest for her own. With only two magic candles left to burn, will Fionn master his powers in time to stop her? The race is on to save the island from the clutches of evil, before the tide turns on Arranmore for good.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published March 4, 2021
19 people are currently reading
652 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Doyle
28 books2,748 followersCatherine Doyle grew up in the West of Ireland. She holds a first-class BA in Psychology and a first-class MA in Publishing. She is the author of the Young Adult Blood for Blood trilogy (Vendetta, Inferno and Mafiosa), which is often described as Romeo and Juliet meets the Godfather. It was inspired by her love of modern cinema. Her debut Middle Grade novel, The Storm Keeper's Island (Bloomsbury, 2018), is an adventure story about family, bravery and self-discovery. It is set on the magical island of Arranmore, where her grandparents grew up, and is inspired by her ancestors' real life daring sea rescues.
Aside from more conventional interests in movies, running and travelling, Catherine also enjoys writing about herself in the third-person.
Aside from more conventional interests in movies, running and travelling, Catherine also enjoys writing about herself in the third-person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
April 22, 2021
Before reading the book - Only two candles left? I can't wait.
After reading the book - Epic.
Fionn Boyle, Arranmore island's storm keeper is back and facing worse odds than ever before. Fionn still can't control or focus his magic. Fionn wants Dagda to come back and his hopes come more alive when Dagda's flying companion, Aonbharr shows up. He becomes certain that Dagda is not far behind but they need more clues and answers.
When Fionn, Sam and Shelby find Rose, she sends them to the wishing tree to get answers. And answers they get. Turns out that Fionn is not just the storm keeper, he is also the sorcerer. I squealed with joy but Arranmore's residents didn't have the same reaction. In fact, all their hopes and confidence deflate. I can understand their anxiousness as Fionn doesn't have the grasp on his magic. When Rose finds out that Fionn is the new sorcerer, she shows her true self and she is none other than Roisin, the first and fearless. She guides Fionn and trains him to control and focus his magic.
With the sorcerer's identity comes the impending doom. Morrigan takes Shelby hostage and she becomes a soulstalker and along with Shelby, her tide warriors come under Morrigan's control. Some descendants from across the globe make it to Arranmore to fight for its survival and that shows how much they love their magical island even when they don't presently live there. Everyone rejoices with their family reunions but it doesn't last as Morrigan declares war and Fionn along with all the descendants and non-descendants fights and they end up killing Morrigan's brothers. There are fatalities among both sides of course.
After Morrigan loses her brothers, she becomes reckless and drives all of Dagda's people away. Tara stays behind to stop or slow Morrigan so that other people can make it to safety. Fionn creates a path in the ocean very much like Moses from the Bible and they make it to another town. But Fionn comes back to the island as he wants to get Tara and possibly Shelby back too and he wants to rip off the soul cape from Morrigan. Sam follows Fionn and they do something even more reckless than anyone could have expected.
I already love Fionn and continued loving him in this. He is a relatable, smart, sensible, kind, caring character. He is loyal to his friends and family. I have loved Sam and Shelby from the moment they were introduced and again continued loving them in this. I especially loved Sam's witty one-liners. His funny demeanor was such a relief and balanced the dangerous story rather well. Fionn, Sam and Shelby also remind me of Harry, Ron and Hermoine from the Harry Potter series just saying. Bartley and Tara took me by surprise in this. Bartley became kind of mature and Tara had Fionn's back for once. At the start of the book, they were both still being immature and jealous but they had quite the character development soon after. I actually liked Fionn and Tara's sibling bonding. Even Fionn's mother was quite good in this.
I wanted to know more about Rose and Catherine Doyle gave me Rose's back story which was really impressive. Again all the supporting characters were very well thought out, they all played an actual role in the story rather than being for the sake of being there and I loved them all. I do have to say that after Elizabeth Beasley sold Fionn out to Ivan in the previous book, I expected that she'd have some consequences to deal with after that but no one even batted an eyelash on this and this is my only complaint about the book.
I was a bit anxious before starting this book that may be the battle that's coming is only going to be a few pages long and all that buildup would be for nothing as it happens in a lot of books but this was not the case here. The battle is epic and happens over half the book almost. We also get to see more candle magic and each candle burnt brought either secrets from long ago or delightful visits with Fionn and Tara getting to see their father and grandfather again. I just can't get enough of this candle magic. It is so unique and amazing that I want more more and then some more.
I have said this before and will say this again that Catherine Doyle's writing is magical. In fact, everything about this series is magical from writing, to characters, to the unique magic, to the story, even the island is like another living and breathing character in the story. Catherine Doyle weaves a wonderful story with past and present events with family ties and their love for one another and the island and the Irish folklore (although I wasn't aware of it until recently). All the books tie up nicely with each other. Like every other book in this series, I read it in one sitting too. Needless to say that this is going on my all time favorite shelf.
This book made me cry so much. Sometimes sad tears, sometimes happy tears, sometimes tears of relief, even now I am getting teary eyed. I hate goodbyes and I sincerely hope that this isn't the end here for this world that I have come to love so much. A magnificent read.
P.S. I'd love to see this created on screen.
5 epic stars
After reading the book - Epic.
Fionn Boyle, Arranmore island's storm keeper is back and facing worse odds than ever before. Fionn still can't control or focus his magic. Fionn wants Dagda to come back and his hopes come more alive when Dagda's flying companion, Aonbharr shows up. He becomes certain that Dagda is not far behind but they need more clues and answers.
When Fionn, Sam and Shelby find Rose, she sends them to the wishing tree to get answers. And answers they get. Turns out that Fionn is not just the storm keeper, he is also the sorcerer. I squealed with joy but Arranmore's residents didn't have the same reaction. In fact, all their hopes and confidence deflate. I can understand their anxiousness as Fionn doesn't have the grasp on his magic. When Rose finds out that Fionn is the new sorcerer, she shows her true self and she is none other than Roisin, the first and fearless. She guides Fionn and trains him to control and focus his magic.
With the sorcerer's identity comes the impending doom. Morrigan takes Shelby hostage and she becomes a soulstalker and along with Shelby, her tide warriors come under Morrigan's control. Some descendants from across the globe make it to Arranmore to fight for its survival and that shows how much they love their magical island even when they don't presently live there. Everyone rejoices with their family reunions but it doesn't last as Morrigan declares war and Fionn along with all the descendants and non-descendants fights and they end up killing Morrigan's brothers. There are fatalities among both sides of course.
After Morrigan loses her brothers, she becomes reckless and drives all of Dagda's people away. Tara stays behind to stop or slow Morrigan so that other people can make it to safety. Fionn creates a path in the ocean very much like Moses from the Bible and they make it to another town. But Fionn comes back to the island as he wants to get Tara and possibly Shelby back too and he wants to rip off the soul cape from Morrigan. Sam follows Fionn and they do something even more reckless than anyone could have expected.
I already love Fionn and continued loving him in this. He is a relatable, smart, sensible, kind, caring character. He is loyal to his friends and family. I have loved Sam and Shelby from the moment they were introduced and again continued loving them in this. I especially loved Sam's witty one-liners. His funny demeanor was such a relief and balanced the dangerous story rather well. Fionn, Sam and Shelby also remind me of Harry, Ron and Hermoine from the Harry Potter series just saying. Bartley and Tara took me by surprise in this. Bartley became kind of mature and Tara had Fionn's back for once. At the start of the book, they were both still being immature and jealous but they had quite the character development soon after. I actually liked Fionn and Tara's sibling bonding. Even Fionn's mother was quite good in this.
I wanted to know more about Rose and Catherine Doyle gave me Rose's back story which was really impressive. Again all the supporting characters were very well thought out, they all played an actual role in the story rather than being for the sake of being there and I loved them all. I do have to say that after Elizabeth Beasley sold Fionn out to Ivan in the previous book, I expected that she'd have some consequences to deal with after that but no one even batted an eyelash on this and this is my only complaint about the book.
I was a bit anxious before starting this book that may be the battle that's coming is only going to be a few pages long and all that buildup would be for nothing as it happens in a lot of books but this was not the case here. The battle is epic and happens over half the book almost. We also get to see more candle magic and each candle burnt brought either secrets from long ago or delightful visits with Fionn and Tara getting to see their father and grandfather again. I just can't get enough of this candle magic. It is so unique and amazing that I want more more and then some more.
I have said this before and will say this again that Catherine Doyle's writing is magical. In fact, everything about this series is magical from writing, to characters, to the unique magic, to the story, even the island is like another living and breathing character in the story. Catherine Doyle weaves a wonderful story with past and present events with family ties and their love for one another and the island and the Irish folklore (although I wasn't aware of it until recently). All the books tie up nicely with each other. Like every other book in this series, I read it in one sitting too. Needless to say that this is going on my all time favorite shelf.
This book made me cry so much. Sometimes sad tears, sometimes happy tears, sometimes tears of relief, even now I am getting teary eyed. I hate goodbyes and I sincerely hope that this isn't the end here for this world that I have come to love so much. A magnificent read.
P.S. I'd love to see this created on screen.
5 epic stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2021
Echt een goed einde van de serie! Mijn recensie kan je hier lezen: https://axellesbooks.wordpress.com/20...
June 19, 2021
Actual rating: 3.75 stars
“The Storm Keepers’ Battle” was an action-packed and heartwarming finale that made me happy enough to recommend this trilogy to middle grade readers.
As you can see from my rating, this is not my favorite installment in the series. I wish it were longer and not rushed. I would have appreciated more scenes of Fionn practicing with his new weapon before he became so powerful. I was disappointed that we didn’t see enough of Shelby and the merrows fighting Morrigan and her minions.
However, there were also several things that delighted and impressed me:
1. The bond between Tara, Fionn, and Evie - The emphasis on strong family ties is one of the best things about this trilogy.
2. Sam - He finally had his chance to shine and he was wonderful and funny!
3. Rose - IMO, she wins the wisest and most badass warrior award.
4. Exciting battle scenes - I prefer middle grade books that tone down the violence but also teach us about the importance of sacrifice. I wouldn’t have taken the battle seriously if all the islanders survived and lived happily ever after.
5. Fionn - I know he was frustrating and annoying in the first part of this book. Please don’t give up on him. He’ll grow up and do brave things.
“The Storm Keepers’ Battle” was an action-packed and heartwarming finale that made me happy enough to recommend this trilogy to middle grade readers.
As you can see from my rating, this is not my favorite installment in the series. I wish it were longer and not rushed. I would have appreciated more scenes of Fionn practicing with his new weapon before he became so powerful. I was disappointed that we didn’t see enough of Shelby and the merrows fighting Morrigan and her minions.
However, there were also several things that delighted and impressed me:
1. The bond between Tara, Fionn, and Evie - The emphasis on strong family ties is one of the best things about this trilogy.
2. Sam - He finally had his chance to shine and he was wonderful and funny!
3. Rose - IMO, she wins the wisest and most badass warrior award.
4. Exciting battle scenes - I prefer middle grade books that tone down the violence but also teach us about the importance of sacrifice. I wouldn’t have taken the battle seriously if all the islanders survived and lived happily ever after.
5. Fionn - I know he was frustrating and annoying in the first part of this book. Please don’t give up on him. He’ll grow up and do brave things.
March 14, 2021
What a great ending to this trilogy. I had previously read the last two books to my daughter in hard copy (one signed by the author), but she's a bit old for that now, so when I saw it on Netgalley, I had to request in case I didn't get another chance to finish off the series. so glad I did as thoroughly enjoyed the magic and the final battle, so thank you to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for the opportunity.
Fantastic writing by the author, I can really see this being studied at schools. Lots of descriptive writing and setting the scene, helps you imagine you are there too. I think it could work very well as a short series or film too.
Fantastic characters too, and great relationship between Fionn and his friends and family throughout the series.
My only drawback is that is is the final book in the series and you really do need to read the earlier books in order to fully enjoy the series, as the book really carries on directly from the last and you don't get an immediate reminder of who the characters are, so if you've not read them, you may be a little confused. Not really a book to be read as standalone, but if you're prepared to read them all, you're in for a real treat.
Fantastic writing by the author, I can really see this being studied at schools. Lots of descriptive writing and setting the scene, helps you imagine you are there too. I think it could work very well as a short series or film too.
Fantastic characters too, and great relationship between Fionn and his friends and family throughout the series.
My only drawback is that is is the final book in the series and you really do need to read the earlier books in order to fully enjoy the series, as the book really carries on directly from the last and you don't get an immediate reminder of who the characters are, so if you've not read them, you may be a little confused. Not really a book to be read as standalone, but if you're prepared to read them all, you're in for a real treat.
March 7, 2021
Well, it’s over. I DEFINITELY cried. Catherine Doyle has written a proper epic final book in this series. This series has a massive chunk of my heart and I’ve put off reading this final book because I’ve not wanted to say goodbye to these characters, this magical world of memory filled candles and this enchanting magic. This story has got everything you could want: magic, an epic battle between good and evil, friends, family and a gorgeous sprinkling of humour. There’s such lovely messages in this about the power and bond between siblings that just gave me absolute life too. I’m so sad this series is over, but my gosh, it was a pleasure.
October 22, 2021
No one makes me cry like Cathrine Doyle and my husband can confirm this because of how many times he walked up the stairs to say “are you okay”
The answer is no. I am not. This is in my opinion a perfect series and it's a shining example of how powerful, wonderful and enjoyable children fiction can be.
The answer is no. I am not. This is in my opinion a perfect series and it's a shining example of how powerful, wonderful and enjoyable children fiction can be.
April 29, 2021
Het laatste avontuur van Fionn en co op Arranmore heeft me meteen van pagina een weten te pakken. Catherine Doyle brengt je als lezer direct mee in de actie waardoor boek drie van de Stormwachter reeks een vliegende start maakt. En deze actie en spanning blijft aanhouden tot het allerlaatste, epische strijd.
De evolutie van Fionn in dit boek is zo prachtig om te zien en geweldig weer gebracht. De andere personages bleven voor mij in dit boek helaas erg vlak maar ze zorgden wel voor de nodige comic relief tussen alle spanning door. Dit maakte het een aangename leeservaring.
Het einde brengt ook een mooi slot tot de reeks en voelt aan als een écht einde.
Ik heb zo enorm genoten van deze serie en ga het magische Arranmore echt missen.
De evolutie van Fionn in dit boek is zo prachtig om te zien en geweldig weer gebracht. De andere personages bleven voor mij in dit boek helaas erg vlak maar ze zorgden wel voor de nodige comic relief tussen alle spanning door. Dit maakte het een aangename leeservaring.
Het einde brengt ook een mooi slot tot de reeks en voelt aan als een écht einde.
Ik heb zo enorm genoten van deze serie en ga het magische Arranmore echt missen.
March 31, 2022
Wow! Kakvo finale! Premalo je reći da je čarobno. Kroz prve dvije knjige gradile su se tenzije za bitku za otok Arranmore čiji korijeni su utkani u njegovu bit kroz drevnu borbu zle Morrigan i moćnog Dagde koji su ponovno probuđeni.
Dječak Fionn, njegova sestra Tara, prijatelji Sam i Shelby i ostali otočani kuju planove. Planovi propadaju, planovi se iznova rade i to brzinski jer Morrigan i njena vojska dušolovaca napadaju bez milosti.
Duša ovog romana su odanost i ljubav (obiteljska, prijateljska i ona prema "živom" otoku koji je srce svakog njegovog stanovnika) i upravo me tu udarilo u svu srž, toliko da su mi na nekoliko scena doslovno opet suze krenule same od sebe (kao uostalom i u prijašnjim nastavcima). Catherine Doyle je majstorica u izvlačenju takvih osjećaja na površinu.
Ne bih previše o samoj radnji da nešto ne otkrijem, osim što mi je okupljanje otočnih klanova Čuvara oluja bilo jednostavno predobro jer su nadvladavajući međusobne razmirice priskočili u pomoć otoku i svojim sumještanima.
Roman je prepun akcije, čita se u dahu i usput upija svu usputnu čaroliju koja cvjeta na svakoj stranici.
Nekome će se možda činiti da pretjerujem, ali meni je ova trilogija zbilja nešto preposebno i iznad svega maštovito, što me isprva i privuklo i uvuklo u cijelu priču. Rijetke su knjige koje su me tako zahvatile od samog početka i držale do samog kraja. Iako su "dječje", preporučujem ih svima od ❤️.
Dječak Fionn, njegova sestra Tara, prijatelji Sam i Shelby i ostali otočani kuju planove. Planovi propadaju, planovi se iznova rade i to brzinski jer Morrigan i njena vojska dušolovaca napadaju bez milosti.
Duša ovog romana su odanost i ljubav (obiteljska, prijateljska i ona prema "živom" otoku koji je srce svakog njegovog stanovnika) i upravo me tu udarilo u svu srž, toliko da su mi na nekoliko scena doslovno opet suze krenule same od sebe (kao uostalom i u prijašnjim nastavcima). Catherine Doyle je majstorica u izvlačenju takvih osjećaja na površinu.
Ne bih previše o samoj radnji da nešto ne otkrijem, osim što mi je okupljanje otočnih klanova Čuvara oluja bilo jednostavno predobro jer su nadvladavajući međusobne razmirice priskočili u pomoć otoku i svojim sumještanima.
Roman je prepun akcije, čita se u dahu i usput upija svu usputnu čaroliju koja cvjeta na svakoj stranici.
Nekome će se možda činiti da pretjerujem, ali meni je ova trilogija zbilja nešto preposebno i iznad svega maštovito, što me isprva i privuklo i uvuklo u cijelu priču. Rijetke su knjige koje su me tako zahvatile od samog početka i držale do samog kraja. Iako su "dječje", preporučujem ih svima od ❤️.
October 25, 2022
Kiva, merellinen ja taianomainen sarja. Saarimiljöölle iso plussa. Päätösosa on yleistunnelmaltaan aika synkkä,
April 6, 2023
What a great ending to a great series. I loved Tara and Fionn’s relationship arc throughout this series. Morrigan’s brothers were terrifying (especially Aldric). Rose’s stand was so brave. Tara was so good with that bull whip. SAM’S SONG AT THE END WAS PERFECT. (I loved him. He is such a fun character.) Due to circumstances, Shelby was in this one less than I’d hoped, but I get why (and she was still a prominent character). Loved how all the islanders bonded together and fought for their home. And of course the candle magic!!! Love how the series went from “this is cool magic that will show me things in the past” to “I will use this to essentially teleport away from bad guys and then surprise them.” A lot of characters but I mostly kept track of them. A series I will definitely be reading again.
March 10, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC of The Storm Keepers' Battle!
I was really excited for this book, so was thrilled when NG accepted my request. I first discovered The Storm Keeper's Island in 2019. It was on sale on audible, and I had the joy of listening to it narrated by Patrick Moy. I have just re-listened to book one and two so I could flow in to book three with the full story swirling in my head like one of Fionn's storms.
The Storm Keepers' Battle is the epic finale to the Sotrm Keeper trilogy and it did not dissapoint. I have loved following Fionn Boyle's story right from the start, and he has remained a brave, heartwarming and relatable main character.
Catherine Doyle's writing is packed with wit, humour, action, tear-jerking moments, friendship, bravery, team work, and magic.
The magical journey we go on with Fionn on the island of Arranmore is a wild adventure. Fionn, the Storm Keeper, overflowing with the most powerful Storm Keeper magic seen in generations remains a relatable and humble teenager. We get to join Fionn is mastering his power, and learning to empathise with others. We see him face loss, and remember losses had. We laugh, cry, smile with Fionn. It is rare that I enjoy a main character so much, and he was simply a joy to read and extremely likeable.
There is more beautiful and mysterious magic and lore, and Doyle keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. I comfortably read this book in one sitting- there wasn't a moment I wanted to put it down for later.
I was really excited for this book, so was thrilled when NG accepted my request. I first discovered The Storm Keeper's Island in 2019. It was on sale on audible, and I had the joy of listening to it narrated by Patrick Moy. I have just re-listened to book one and two so I could flow in to book three with the full story swirling in my head like one of Fionn's storms.
The Storm Keepers' Battle is the epic finale to the Sotrm Keeper trilogy and it did not dissapoint. I have loved following Fionn Boyle's story right from the start, and he has remained a brave, heartwarming and relatable main character.
Catherine Doyle's writing is packed with wit, humour, action, tear-jerking moments, friendship, bravery, team work, and magic.
The magical journey we go on with Fionn on the island of Arranmore is a wild adventure. Fionn, the Storm Keeper, overflowing with the most powerful Storm Keeper magic seen in generations remains a relatable and humble teenager. We get to join Fionn is mastering his power, and learning to empathise with others. We see him face loss, and remember losses had. We laugh, cry, smile with Fionn. It is rare that I enjoy a main character so much, and he was simply a joy to read and extremely likeable.
There is more beautiful and mysterious magic and lore, and Doyle keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. I comfortably read this book in one sitting- there wasn't a moment I wanted to put it down for later.
April 9, 2021
The Storm Keepers' Battle is an epic finale to an amazing trilogy. Ancient battle has been brewing for a long time and finally comes to moment, where Fionn and the islanders of Arranmore has to face the ancient sorcerer Morrigan. It is brilliant adventure full of dangerous and heartfelt moments. What makes it particularly stunning is the tight-knit community of Arranmore and how such different characters come together in the face of danger and destruction.
I have praised Arranmore as magical setting and it continues to be surprising and breathtaking in the finale. I love how the characters continue to grow and their relationships deepen, particularly Fionn and Tara remembering what it is to be siblings. And of course, Fionn's close friendship with Sam and Shelby continues to be central for the story. It is good to see people supporting Fionn, who has to learn fast how to control his powers and take such huge responsibility of the upcoming battle. Fionn is one of my favourite middle grade protagonists, because he's so lovely.
I highly recommend Storm Keeper trilogy, because it is so magical and full of adventure - and the books keep getting better and better.
I have praised Arranmore as magical setting and it continues to be surprising and breathtaking in the finale. I love how the characters continue to grow and their relationships deepen, particularly Fionn and Tara remembering what it is to be siblings. And of course, Fionn's close friendship with Sam and Shelby continues to be central for the story. It is good to see people supporting Fionn, who has to learn fast how to control his powers and take such huge responsibility of the upcoming battle. Fionn is one of my favourite middle grade protagonists, because he's so lovely.
I highly recommend Storm Keeper trilogy, because it is so magical and full of adventure - and the books keep getting better and better.
July 8, 2025
3.7
Way better then the second one but not better then the first one.
Way better then the second one but not better then the first one.
June 22, 2021
Fionn may have the storm keeper's magic but he still needs to learn how to harness it. With a centuries old enemy, he needs all the help he can get and the whole island will have to be on his side.
This is a thrilling conclusion to the storm keeper's trilogy, just as exciting as the first book and full of magic.
The narrator is great, perfect voices for all the different characters and I was never confused about who was speaking.
This is a thrilling conclusion to the storm keeper's trilogy, just as exciting as the first book and full of magic.
The narrator is great, perfect voices for all the different characters and I was never confused about who was speaking.
July 23, 2025
Znate kako reču ,"Treća sreća."
April 28, 2021
“None of us really know what we’re made of until the world decides to test us.”
April 12, 2021
The power flows in you use it be your own light - by one of the bravest characters of the book.
Superb, mindblowing, super-duper Engaging. I loved every character, loved every part..A must read series especially this one!
Superb, mindblowing, super-duper Engaging. I loved every character, loved every part..A must read series especially this one!
February 8, 2022
This was a solid end to the trilogy. The first half really took me a bit to get into, but when the story picked up for me, it did it in a big way. Recommended for those who enjoy magic and mythology and a bit of time travel. Read the other books first, though. :)
April 9, 2021
sensational
sobbing at work currently over this book
sobbing at work currently over this book
May 4, 2021
Blogtour dag 2!
Dank je, @baeckensbooks, voor het recensie-exemplaar.
Er is een week verstreken sinds Fionn op het strand van Arranmore tegenover Morrigan stond en afscheid moest nemen van zijn opa. Fionn, Shelby en Sam hebben al hun hoop op Dagda, de laatste tovenaar, gevestigd in de strijd tegen Morrigan. Ze moeten hem zo snel mogelijk vinden – voordat het te laat is.
Catherine Doyle heeft het opnieuw gedaan: een boek geschreven waar ik geen genoeg van kan krijgen. Opnieuw nam ze me mee naar Arranmore, dit keer om een episch einde aan dit verhaal te beleven. Fionn staat moedig tegenover Morrigan, hoewel het wel even duurt. Gelukkig, want anders ging het te makkelijk geweest zijn. Terwijl de groei van Fionn centraal staat, heb je ook de thema's van familie en vriendschap. De band tussen Fionn en Tara wordt zo mooi verder uitgebouwd. Een episch gevecht voor het redden van de mensheid, op een goede manier neergeschreven en uitgepland. Ik zal altijd terugkijken op mijn tijd op Arranmore door de ogen van Fionn als een tijd vol spanning, magie, vriendschap en familie.
Mijn rating: 5 op 5 sterren
Dank je, @baeckensbooks, voor het recensie-exemplaar.
Er is een week verstreken sinds Fionn op het strand van Arranmore tegenover Morrigan stond en afscheid moest nemen van zijn opa. Fionn, Shelby en Sam hebben al hun hoop op Dagda, de laatste tovenaar, gevestigd in de strijd tegen Morrigan. Ze moeten hem zo snel mogelijk vinden – voordat het te laat is.
Catherine Doyle heeft het opnieuw gedaan: een boek geschreven waar ik geen genoeg van kan krijgen. Opnieuw nam ze me mee naar Arranmore, dit keer om een episch einde aan dit verhaal te beleven. Fionn staat moedig tegenover Morrigan, hoewel het wel even duurt. Gelukkig, want anders ging het te makkelijk geweest zijn. Terwijl de groei van Fionn centraal staat, heb je ook de thema's van familie en vriendschap. De band tussen Fionn en Tara wordt zo mooi verder uitgebouwd. Een episch gevecht voor het redden van de mensheid, op een goede manier neergeschreven en uitgepland. Ik zal altijd terugkijken op mijn tijd op Arranmore door de ogen van Fionn als een tijd vol spanning, magie, vriendschap en familie.
Mijn rating: 5 op 5 sterren
January 3, 2021
What an amazing finale to this wonderful trilogy. The wonder, energy, joy and magic of Arranmore’s Stormkeepers all collide in this fantastic ending to Fionn and Tara’s adventure on the island. I read this in one sitting stopping every once and a while to catch my breath!
December 31, 2020
I was lucky enough to win an advance copy. It it fabulous! I could not put it down, Catherine Doyle is a master writer and I love all of her books.
August 16, 2021
Het voelde heel dubbel om aan 'Stormwachter 3 - De strijd om Arranmore' te beginnen. Ik wilde heel graag terug naar Arranmore, maar ik wíst dat ik na dit boek ook afscheid moest gaan nemen van datzelfde Arranmore. Toch ben ik aan dit boek begonnen, want ik wist: ik kan áltijd weer beginnen bij het begin.
'Je kunt zoeken tot je een ons weegt, maar de paden besluiten zelf wanneer ze zich laten zien. En aan wie. Ze hebben een eigen wil.'
Maar wat kan ik nog zeggen over dit laatste deel in de Stormwachter-serie? Alles is inmiddels wel gezegd, denk ik. Ook dit deel leest weer vlot. Catherine Doyle heeft een heel fijne, beeldende/filmische, schrijfstijl en daardoor is het alsof je zélf ook op Arranmore aanwezig bent.
Het verhaal zat, net als de voorgaande delen, weer boordevol magie, spanning, actie en humor.
'Je moet gewoon je haar uit mijn gezicht houden.' 'Dat kan niet. Ik gebruik shampoo waar mijn haar van gaat dansen.'
Deze quote deed mij denken aan een bepaalde reclame van een zeker merk shampoo: 'Pam, je haar danst!'
Dus ja, ik moest even grinniken.
Sowieso kon ik weer genieten van mooie quotes en wijsheden. Waardoor ik opgeslokt werd door het verhaal.
'Met Solas was het net zo simpel als ademhalen, zo makkelijk als denken.'
Voor mij voelde het lezen van dit verhaal net zo simpel als ademhalen, zo gemakkelijk als denken. Want door de onderhuidse spanning, de ontknoping die nadert, kon ik dit boek niet meer wegleggen. Je ervaarde een stilte voor de storm. Een storm waarvan je de omvang en de uitkomst nog niet weet. De grande finale. De grande finale die mij Harry Potter-vibes gaf. En een groter compliment kan ik deze serie niet geven. Ik ben verliefd geworden op deze serie. Wat zeg ik? Ik hóú van deze serie. Net als ik van Harry Potter hou.
Deze serie gaf mij het gevoel alsof niks er toe deed, een magisch gevoel, een gevoel van pure ontspanning. En ik vind het jammer dat deze serie afgelopen is. Gelukkig kan ik het áltijd herlezen. Herlezen als ik weer op zoek ben naar pure ontspanning. Deze serie is voor mij dé ontdekking van 2021 en ik geef dit laatste deel ook *****
'Je kunt zoeken tot je een ons weegt, maar de paden besluiten zelf wanneer ze zich laten zien. En aan wie. Ze hebben een eigen wil.'
Maar wat kan ik nog zeggen over dit laatste deel in de Stormwachter-serie? Alles is inmiddels wel gezegd, denk ik. Ook dit deel leest weer vlot. Catherine Doyle heeft een heel fijne, beeldende/filmische, schrijfstijl en daardoor is het alsof je zélf ook op Arranmore aanwezig bent.
Het verhaal zat, net als de voorgaande delen, weer boordevol magie, spanning, actie en humor.
'Je moet gewoon je haar uit mijn gezicht houden.' 'Dat kan niet. Ik gebruik shampoo waar mijn haar van gaat dansen.'
Deze quote deed mij denken aan een bepaalde reclame van een zeker merk shampoo: 'Pam, je haar danst!'
Dus ja, ik moest even grinniken.
Sowieso kon ik weer genieten van mooie quotes en wijsheden. Waardoor ik opgeslokt werd door het verhaal.
'Met Solas was het net zo simpel als ademhalen, zo makkelijk als denken.'
Voor mij voelde het lezen van dit verhaal net zo simpel als ademhalen, zo gemakkelijk als denken. Want door de onderhuidse spanning, de ontknoping die nadert, kon ik dit boek niet meer wegleggen. Je ervaarde een stilte voor de storm. Een storm waarvan je de omvang en de uitkomst nog niet weet. De grande finale. De grande finale die mij Harry Potter-vibes gaf. En een groter compliment kan ik deze serie niet geven. Ik ben verliefd geworden op deze serie. Wat zeg ik? Ik hóú van deze serie. Net als ik van Harry Potter hou.
Deze serie gaf mij het gevoel alsof niks er toe deed, een magisch gevoel, een gevoel van pure ontspanning. En ik vind het jammer dat deze serie afgelopen is. Gelukkig kan ik het áltijd herlezen. Herlezen als ik weer op zoek ben naar pure ontspanning. Deze serie is voor mij dé ontdekking van 2021 en ik geef dit laatste deel ook *****
March 16, 2022
Upea maailma, hienot henkilöhahmot, tunteikkaita taistelukohtauksia. Helposti viisi tähteä, kuten myös koko kirjasarjalle.
August 2, 2021
It was the audiobook version I had of this book and the only reason it is 4stars is because I really did not like the voices they did for the characters . The rest of the book was amazing !
This is the perfect adventure story for young readers , the characters in it are described so well and it flows nicely throughout the story without losing the reader (or listeners) attention. This is the 3rd book in the Storm Keepers series (and the first one I have read/listened too) this book does work as a stand alone kind of book , it doesn't feel like you have missed out on much but I would recommend reading them in order so you get to know the characters more.
Fionn Boyle is the Storm Keeper who is facing the fight of his life , the powerful Morrigan has risen from the dead and has sealed off the island so they can't have any help. The only thing standing in Morrigan's way is Fionn.... can he defeat her and save the island ?
This is a great adventure for young readers to enjoy and get their teeth sunk into , if you have a child that loves adventure books this is a great series for them!
This is the perfect adventure story for young readers , the characters in it are described so well and it flows nicely throughout the story without losing the reader (or listeners) attention. This is the 3rd book in the Storm Keepers series (and the first one I have read/listened too) this book does work as a stand alone kind of book , it doesn't feel like you have missed out on much but I would recommend reading them in order so you get to know the characters more.
Fionn Boyle is the Storm Keeper who is facing the fight of his life , the powerful Morrigan has risen from the dead and has sealed off the island so they can't have any help. The only thing standing in Morrigan's way is Fionn.... can he defeat her and save the island ?
This is a great adventure for young readers to enjoy and get their teeth sunk into , if you have a child that loves adventure books this is a great series for them!
January 16, 2022
To me, the relationship between Fionn and his grandfather has always been the heart of this series, and I worried what that fact boded for book three. My worries were justified, as book 3 was jam-packed with action but emotionally flat. There was still Fionn's relationship with his sister Tara, another strong point of the first two books, but here it felt off: with some unearned tension begetting an even more unearned resolution. The third strongest relationship in the book, between the inhabitants of Arranmore and the island itself, fares a little better, but so much of the book is taken up with battles that the island doesn't really get a chance to breathe as a character.
What we're left with -- hit over the head with, really -- is the sense of the island's inhabitants as a community. "Big Bad, our loyalty to each other isn't a weakness, it's a strength" kind of thing. In practice, this played out with people repeatedly saving other people from certain death at the last moment, which is effective, if fairly literal-minded. It hits the action beats but not the emotional ones. 2 1/2 stars, rounded up because I liked the first two books so much.
What we're left with -- hit over the head with, really -- is the sense of the island's inhabitants as a community. "Big Bad, our loyalty to each other isn't a weakness, it's a strength" kind of thing. In practice, this played out with people repeatedly saving other people from certain death at the last moment, which is effective, if fairly literal-minded. It hits the action beats but not the emotional ones. 2 1/2 stars, rounded up because I liked the first two books so much.
March 1, 2021
The final battle takes up a third of the book - magic, doubt, evil, and plenty of cool sequences. The geography of the island is exploited well, these familiar places being used by the islanders to boost their defences. Plus some "key" locations being used as the centre of great action pieces, particularly the lighthouse.
Being a finale, it wouldn't be complete without a big bad and some serious self doubt. Morrigan's ability to steal people's souls and make them into puppets is pretty unnerving, and her brothers are the big muscles. After losing his grandfather in the last book and realising the final battle is nigh, Fionn naturally is going through the dark night of the soul. To be fair, I completely understand the wariness of everyone around him - if I knew I was about to be caught up in a fight, I would not be enthusiastic about a 12 year old being put in charge, regardless of how much magic he had (even if he could initially control it).
I liked how the tendrils of myths and clues laid back in the first book play out in this one, everything wrapped up into a neat package (though there is a bit of "don't think too hard about the linearity of time" going on. Still, the candle magic means the time travel aspect feels less like sci-fi time travel, and so loses the shaky logic vibe).
The images above the chapters are really cute, and really clever. They're all set in exactly the same location, but they alter with the events of the book, and also track the time of day too. They're not large and you'd need to be paying a lot of attention to them to notice the subtle (and some not so subtle) changes. It's something the publisher could have easily left out, as it would have been a fair bit of work for the designer to create every one, double crossing against the story, but it's such a lovely touch.
Being a finale, it wouldn't be complete without a big bad and some serious self doubt. Morrigan's ability to steal people's souls and make them into puppets is pretty unnerving, and her brothers are the big muscles. After losing his grandfather in the last book and realising the final battle is nigh, Fionn naturally is going through the dark night of the soul. To be fair, I completely understand the wariness of everyone around him - if I knew I was about to be caught up in a fight, I would not be enthusiastic about a 12 year old being put in charge, regardless of how much magic he had (even if he could initially control it).
I liked how the tendrils of myths and clues laid back in the first book play out in this one, everything wrapped up into a neat package (though there is a bit of "don't think too hard about the linearity of time" going on. Still, the candle magic means the time travel aspect feels less like sci-fi time travel, and so loses the shaky logic vibe).
The images above the chapters are really cute, and really clever. They're all set in exactly the same location, but they alter with the events of the book, and also track the time of day too. They're not large and you'd need to be paying a lot of attention to them to notice the subtle (and some not so subtle) changes. It's something the publisher could have easily left out, as it would have been a fair bit of work for the designer to create every one, double crossing against the story, but it's such a lovely touch.
March 3, 2021
With his grandfather gone, Fionn, the reluctant Storm Keeper, is the last defence for Arranmore against the Morrigan. The evil sorceress wants to take over the whole world, starting with the island Fionn has promised to protect. But Fionn's magic has never been very well controlled, and now he has no time, no guidance and an island full of islanders ready to write him off. He'll have to look deep within himself and unravel the mysteries of Arranmore's past if he hopes to succeed.
The third book in this action packed series easily meets the high standards set by the first two. Plotlines are wrapped up in a way that makes sense, characters get resolutions, swashes are buckled and there's adventure galore. Catherine leaves the door open for more stories in this world if she chooses to, but this could also be an ending. (I hope it isn't.)
The only slight problem I had, and I have this with a lot of books so it's not at all unique; it's been a year since I read the last book and another year since the first one. I vaguely remembered the highlights (and I remembered Grandpa dying, because that gutted me and I sometimes reread it) but I didn't remember any of the fine details, and it took a while to remember who Sam and Shelby were. On the other hand, recaps are very tough to work in naturally, so I don't know what the answer is here.
This is a fantastic series, full of really unique magic - seriously, I have never read a magic system like this one - and full of heart. Kids will really enjoy following Fionn on his journey and through his battles. Wonderful.
The third book in this action packed series easily meets the high standards set by the first two. Plotlines are wrapped up in a way that makes sense, characters get resolutions, swashes are buckled and there's adventure galore. Catherine leaves the door open for more stories in this world if she chooses to, but this could also be an ending. (I hope it isn't.)
The only slight problem I had, and I have this with a lot of books so it's not at all unique; it's been a year since I read the last book and another year since the first one. I vaguely remembered the highlights (and I remembered Grandpa dying, because that gutted me and I sometimes reread it) but I didn't remember any of the fine details, and it took a while to remember who Sam and Shelby were. On the other hand, recaps are very tough to work in naturally, so I don't know what the answer is here.
This is a fantastic series, full of really unique magic - seriously, I have never read a magic system like this one - and full of heart. Kids will really enjoy following Fionn on his journey and through his battles. Wonderful.
March 28, 2021
The Storm Keepers' Battle: Part 3 of The Storm Keeper Trilogy by Catherine Doyle
My Three Word Review: Storm, Control, Candle
Storm
Storm most obviously because Fionn is the Storm Keeper. But, perhaps more importantly, because of the way the nature of storms is interwoven into the atmosphere of the book and the Island. The wild turbulence that is a constant presence; the stormy battles; it all adds up to something terrifically atmospheric.
Control
Control because of the struggle for control of Arranmore between Fionn and Morrigan the sorceress. But also because of the way Fionn has had to learn to control his own magic throughout the series: the struggle he has with this is representative, I think, of the struggle we all have as adolescents as we storm and form into the adults we will become and I liked the way Fionn has developed as a character.
Candle
Candle because of the candle magic interwoven throughout the series but really because I love that they have been used as the vehicle for magic: for me candles are a symbol of vigil and hope, and this is so fitting here as the final battle/s loom. And finally, candle because I’m holding a candle in my heart for Arranmore and hope we get to go back before too long.
What three words would you choose?
The Storm Keepers' Battle
My Three Word Review: Storm, Control, Candle
Storm
Storm most obviously because Fionn is the Storm Keeper. But, perhaps more importantly, because of the way the nature of storms is interwoven into the atmosphere of the book and the Island. The wild turbulence that is a constant presence; the stormy battles; it all adds up to something terrifically atmospheric.
Control
Control because of the struggle for control of Arranmore between Fionn and Morrigan the sorceress. But also because of the way Fionn has had to learn to control his own magic throughout the series: the struggle he has with this is representative, I think, of the struggle we all have as adolescents as we storm and form into the adults we will become and I liked the way Fionn has developed as a character.
Candle
Candle because of the candle magic interwoven throughout the series but really because I love that they have been used as the vehicle for magic: for me candles are a symbol of vigil and hope, and this is so fitting here as the final battle/s loom. And finally, candle because I’m holding a candle in my heart for Arranmore and hope we get to go back before too long.
What three words would you choose?
The Storm Keepers' Battle
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