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Two murderous Celtic goddesses… a journeyman druid on the run… and a sealed grimoire that holds the key to his survival. Can Colin unlock it in time to save the people he loves?

Colin McCool here, junkyard druid and trouble magnet extraordinaire.

Recently, I fought the giant king of Jotunheim in a bid to save my druid master’s life. I failed in that task—now it’s up to me to keep druidry alive.

Problem is, the Mórrígan and her sorceress sidekick Fuamnach are out to erase me from the face of the earth.

Sheesh, you steal a few enchanted relics, kill a couple of boyfriends, and suddenly two goddesses want your head on a platter. Go figure.

If I can’t unlock the grimoire my druid master left me, those fae femme fatales are going to rake me over the coals—probably for several long, painful centuries. And if I don’t give myself up, they’ve promised to go after everyone who helped me along the way.

I’m tired of running, and I’m sick of seeing the people I love pay for my beef with the gods. So, it’s time to make my final stand.

The question is, do I have what it takes to unlock the secrets to druid mastery? And will that be enough to stop two of the most powerful goddesses in the Celtic pantheon from destroying me, and everything I hold dear?

246 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2020

221 people are currently reading
154 people want to read

About the author

M.D. Massey

65 books566 followers
M.D. Massey describes himself as the prototypical INTJ. His eclectic background provides him with a rich tapestry of experiences to draw on when crafting fiction, as evidenced by the believable worlds and relatable characters he creates.

As a former Army combat medic (91B), professional martial arts instructor (Krav Maga, JKD, FMA), and women's self-defense instructor, he possesses a unique understanding of close combat, firearms, and criminal violence that few authors can match. This knowledge provides an element of realism to the Druidverse™ novels, setting them apart from other fantasy series.

Mr. Massey lives in the Texas Hill Country with his family and a huge American bulldog that keeps him company while he writes. When he's not in his office or at the local coffee shop writing, you can find him in his garage pummeling inanimate objects or knife-fighting with his friends.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
1,420 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2022
I am rewriting my reviews to improve the intelligibility, since the originals were scribbles to myself. Barbara says it all about the novels in this series. I am pleased that I can see another review, as a Goodreads tech (rogue, of course) has blocked my seeing other science fiction reviews for the last year. 🤔

The commenter ID's on my reviews, except for Powers of the Earth have also been masked, again by a (rogue, of course) Goodreads tech. 🤔 I was able to close my pages to comments and remove all but one lurker. Goodreads will not allow me to remove a Dr Susan Hamilton (Maths professor at University of Tennessee ?). 🤔 She posted nothing over the 2 years after her friend request and has not responded to my four requests that she unfriend me. 🤔 I am just not that interesting, as my siblings will gleefully verify. 😀

If you should complain or query an oddity, it is sent to the same (rogue, of course) Goodreads tech who does not respond. 🤔

Write one brutally negative review of a "sorry salute to the January 6, 2021 hero" and suddenly to at least one (rogue, of course) Goodreads tech, my being a communist is suddenly become a bad thing. Oh, well. 😊

If curious, see my review of "Waking Magic" a bad attempt at fantasy or Powers of the Earth (a sorry salute to the January 6, 2021 hero) and the comments from a Claes Rees, Jr/cgr710 (a self-identified NeoNazi and US patriot).

To Claes Rees, Jr/cgr710
Don't be a numpty. Be a smarty. Come and join the Communist Party.

GLORY TO UKRAINE !!

The writer has created a solid universe around the Celtic pantheon, involving clearly delineated magic and a separation of the interests of the various factions. There are quite s few and the alliances are apt to change as circumstances do.

The different interests are vital elements of the plot in every book across the series and the magical interactions are logical and consistent throughout the series. The personal history of the major characters unfold as and when they need to, so that there is an ongoing mystery surrounding certain key figures.

There are characters associated with deities outside the Celtic pantheon and they are introduced carefully. The interplay between different magic users regardless of association are always handled carefully in the series. I have not seen it done better in any fantasy series. There is a logic that flows through the series that is easy to appreciate and hard to describe. The writer has done serious research and I feel confident that the portrayals of various Powers and deities are mythologically accurate.

I watched a New Zealand program "The Almighty Johnsons" that handled a clash between two pantheons this well but can not think of another. It is awesome by the way and if interested in urban fantasy, I feel that you will almost certainly enjoy it. Robert Heinlein wrote a novel "Job" that included several sets of deities and also landed a series of well placed shots at Christianity. That was also very well done.

The world building is excellent. The books are well plotted and there are series arcs enough to keep you wondering "What is next ?". The characters are excellent in description and the personalities are surprising. There are no p!ace holders in this series.

The plotting will spoil you. Weaker fantasies will not compare well. There are a number of urban fantasies that I thought were wonderful but the only new ones that come to mind are Jim Butcher's "Dresden" and Rachel Aaron's "DFZ"/"Heartstriker" series both of which she set in the same universe.

World building is awesome. Character work is awesome. Plotting is awesome. Prose is awesome. Descriptive skill is awesome.

It is a satisfying series. Kidding. 😃 I love the Druid books. Each book reads well as a standalone but for the full experience, I recommend starting at book one.

I wish the current science fiction was as good as this urban fantasy series but the low end US print is dismal. I rely on Netflix and other streaming services for my science fiction, though their fantasy can be sketchy. For science fiction the streaming services deliver better written stories than the low end books. Netflix film includes the bonus of a large multinational selection.

I began searching for science fiction on YouTube about 2 years ago. I found science fiction and other special interest channels but most importantly, I came across the book channels. They are a wide variety covering all aspects of the bookish experience. The reader communities that they foster are readers of many tastes and interests but all are enamored of all things bookish. It is the complete opposite to whatever Goodreads are. I recommend a visit to several book channels for any reader and have listed several below.

I also was introduced to the dedicated educational video sites through advertisements on YouTube. I used Curiosity Stream/Nebula first at a cost of about $15 USD for a yearly subscription and think that all of them are worth a look.

As for Goodreads, please protect yourself and treat it as a potentially hostile site, just to be safe. Minimize information on your profile, beware of Goodreads messaging (exchange emails) and remove the lurkers on your friend list. 🙂

My YouTube picks of the moment.

Cunk, Overly Sarcastic Productions, The Snake Charmer, Abbie Emmons, Crecganford, Thersites the Historian, Joe Blogs, Book Furnace, Hikma History, Wizards and Warriors, Vampire Lore, Boat Time.

Some of my favorite channels are.

Chugging Along, Some More News, Double Down News, Tara Mooknee, Munecat, DUST, Novara Media, Tulia, Sort of Interesting, Second Thought, Cruising Alba, The Juice Media, Tom Nicholas, Sarah Z, Zoe Baker, The Narrowboat Chef, The Armchair Historian, Sabine Hossenfelder, Karolina Zebrowska, Celtica, Lady of the Library, Books and Lala, Merphy Napier, 2Cellos, Katie Colson, Dead Good Books, We're in Hell, Three Arrows, Patrick is a Navajo, Chris Animations, Jenny Nicholson, The Shades of Orange, The Narrowboat Pirate, Natasha's Adventures, Cari can Read, Elliot Brooks, Quinn's Ideas, WION, Cruising the Cut, Ship Happens, Euronews, Alize, Alicia Cappelle, Jessica Gagnon, France 24, DW News, Mythic Concepts, Spacedock, The Gravel Institute, Cruising Alba, Northern Narrowboaters, Camper Vibe, What Vivi did next, The Templin Institute, The Royal Institution, Tulia, Neringa Rekaslute, Dan Davis History, Nikolay Kutuzov, Celtica, Mythology and Fiction Explained, Practical Engineering, Hello Future Me, Prime of Midlife, Abbie Emmons, Books with Emily Fox, Epimetheus, Trek culture, Maggie May Fish, Diane Callahan Quotidian Writer, Make Better Media, Swell Entertainment, Nikolay Kutuzov, Lilly's expat life, Weir on the move, With Olivia, Between the Wars, The Great War, World War Two, 2 Steps from Hell, Kathy's Flog in France, Reading Wryly, Lily Alexander, Lady knight the Brave, A Cup of Nicole, Overly Sarcastic Productions, Book Odyssey, Media Death Cult, Renegade Cut, Max Joseph, Austin McConnell, Philosophy Tube, Ryan Chapman, History of the Universe, Emmie, A Life of Lit, IzzzYzzz, Daniel Rubin, Physics Girl, Tibees, Kelly loves Physics and History, UA Courage, Mythic Concepts, The Mindful Narrowboat.

I wish you a sunny morning, a gorgeous afternoon, a smashing evening, a splendid night and may we all keep learning.

Censorship is criminal. Self-Censorship is tragic.
Adolph Hitler
Profile Image for Barbara.
1,005 reviews8 followers
December 24, 2020
Who would have thought we would be reading the twelfth book in the McCool series. Well we did though this is the end of this series, the next book will be the first in the next part of McCool's life. Having buried Finn and having his memories restored to him, he starts running for his life with a mom he hates, but still loves. With a Grimoire that he can't open and two evil goddesses after him, he falls back on his friends to help him He fights to save himself, his friends, his mom and The Grove. A book you will want to read as we watch the growth of McCool from a journeyman Druid to his rightful place as a Master Druid. He finds out secrets about his life along the way even as he carries the weight of grief at his loss of Finn with him. An excellent story. Now I have to gear up for a new series. I better go get a snack in order to build up my strength for it.
Profile Image for Tracy Smyth.
2,188 reviews4 followers
October 19, 2021
I have really enjoyed reading this series. I love the character of Colin. Will have to look at the next series and find out what Colin gets up to and how he grows as a Man, Druid Master and partner of the Alpha of the local Werewolf pack. Interesting times ahead
Profile Image for Kristine.
3,434 reviews52 followers
January 9, 2021
By the time you get to the twelfth book in a series, I'm not sure what else I need to say. Obviously, I like the series or I wouldn't continue, and honestly, I like the MC Colin McCool. I feel like we have watched Colin grow up. He started this series as a VERY obnoxious young man who really was extremely arrogant and to be honest, extremely lucky.

We come to this book and realize that he has grown quite a bit. Most of that, unfortunately, has been the hard way. He has lost many friends, some through fault of his own, and others in spite of him. He seems to be more grounded, and definitely more circumspect about the consequences of his choices. I will admit that there are a LOT of characters in this book - it is kind of the culmination of the last few books. We have the BIG fight, and many of Colin's friends have decided to come out and help him. I thought this might be the end of the series, but it looks like it is just the end of this particular story arc and there is a book 13 in the works.

Will I continue? Of course.
10 reviews
January 7, 2021
What can I say? Read This Book!

If you've read the first 11 and enjoyed them you will love love love this one. Even if you haven't read the the first 11 give it a go. I promise you will enjoy it. Colin is the man!! Love the way this book brought all the characters from previous books together. Even though a very special someone was missing from this book the story more than made up for their absence. Wow this author has such an amazing way of making you fall for most bizarre characters. What can I say? Read this book! I tried to read it as slowly as possible to make it last longer but could only hold off for so long. Cannot wait for the next instalment. My heart shall be truly empty until the next book. Also looking forward to reading the spinoffs. Well done M.D. on another triumph!
33 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2021
One of the best books of the series. Lots of action. Maybe a little too much metaphysical stuff thrown in, but this is minimal. Not to be taken as great literature just a fun read. Although I do wish the author would dampen his use of Celtic legends and terms like we all know them and maybe fleash out characters from previous storylines with more recaps slipped in. I am still slightly confused on who and what his mother is?
Profile Image for Chris Stevens.
Author 12 books2 followers
March 9, 2022
Pretty good overall, but felt rushed.

After finishing this book it's hard not to look at the entire saga rather than judge the book by its own merits. Regardless, I think I would rate this book and the entire series about the same. There are a lot of little things I could nitpick, but my biggest complaint would be the build up to the final conflict, which then, lacked the gusto it deserved and ended rather too quickly. That said, I enjoyed the characters and the action, which allowed me to overlook a lot of the faults.

As for the entire series, there were a handful of plotlines started and then dropped. The same happened to a lot of different characters that were built up but then forgotten or mentioned briefly as an afterthought. I got the feeling that the entire series wasn't plotted out in advance.

Still, I finished it and I'll be moving on to the next installment, so he must be doing something right.
104 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2021
Amazing Ending (SPOILERS)

Am amazing and final ending to Colin 's first series of adventures, and hopefully not the last.Finally, Colin realizes the full potential of his magic with the help of the grove and Badb. Though I'm sure Badb regrets pushing Colin to where she did, although she'll never remember it or be able to tell anyone at this point. All the threads come together here as Colin engaged in final battle with Fuamnach and Badb with all of his allies present to help. Great ending. Ready to follow Colin into the next phase of his life.
Profile Image for Lora Bowers.
110 reviews1 follower
December 27, 2020
Wow!

Well this is it, Colin will face the Morrigan in epic fashion. Epic! Clin realized he can't do it alone and calls in the calvary. Everyone makes a cameo. Loved it from the very start meeting colins mom thru the non-stop f#ckery. You barely get a moment to catch your breath before Colin sarcasms his way into another situation. Can't wait for the seat series i love Colin and friends
37 reviews
January 2, 2021
As with all the Druid books, the action and suspense are there in spades. Dialogue is tight.
well thought out and sassy.

Lots of familiar faces in this book, some revelations and character development.

Colin becomes the druid he was always meant to be, an exciting and enthralling tale, told well.
Profile Image for Sean.
82 reviews
January 3, 2021
The End of an Era

This was a fantastic book. Neatly tying up the major plot holes but yet leaving room for the next. I am a huge fan of Irish mythology in general and Druids in particular. Great series and kept me guessing a lot of the time. Would recommend to anyone who likes the supernatural world and Druids in particular.
Profile Image for Brenda.
89 reviews
January 5, 2021
I think this excerpt of the series felt like it was written in a hurry, not a lot of time put into the novel this go round. I liked it but was disappointed. It did not have a lot of energy in the book, no depth into the characters and even the scenes were rushed. I went through this one quite fast, and felt unsatisfied at the end, not even wanting more which is kinda sad.
Profile Image for Jon.
116 reviews2 followers
January 5, 2021
A series one should not pass up

M.D Massey is a masterful, entertaining and awesome storyteller. From the first book in the series “Junkyard Druid”, he captivates and hypnotizes you, and you can’t stop reading. The ups and downs you experience in this series is masterfully written and make you them feel them to your core. PICK UP THIS SERIES!!!
Profile Image for Gail.
618 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2021
Fantastic series!!

So, this book ends THIS series, but we've got another on the way!!!! So can't wait.

In this one Collin finally battles the big bads.

Folks are lost, others survive.

He rescues his mate 😉😁 pees off his new mother in law 😮 finds a brother and lots more.

I adore this series and can't wait for the Trickster series to start. Going to be a 'fun' ride lol.
Profile Image for Jo.
1 review
January 27, 2021
So, I never write reviews but for this I had to (I don't because they'd be full of cliches like that) HOWEVER 12th book in the series and it contains the most obscure joke and I love it!! https://youtu.be/2G9ZGIOiPjY not sure if it will properly link, so search "if my grandmother had wheels" on YouTube. You will not regret it. Yes, that was live British TV.
2,900 reviews17 followers
May 24, 2021
I absolutely loved series! Colin McCool, all of the characters really, are well written, and fascinating. Interactions between them flows smoothly, and there are plenty of laughs. Plenty of action with magical battles and lots of sword play kept me engrossed in every page of every book. I can't wait to read more Colin McCool! Fantastic book, and series.

Profile Image for Beverly.
299 reviews
June 4, 2021
Author M.D Massey has done an excellent job in every book, growing an excellent storyline and a charismatic character, and this twelfth sequel in the Junkyard Druid series is outstanding. This story is a life changer for the junkyard druid, Colin McCool, and from the first chapter to the last the action is fast and sometimes turbo charged.
Profile Image for Joel O'quain.
18 reviews
December 25, 2020
How long till next book

The Druidverse series is a GREAT set of books. I read the first one and took off. I was waiting for this one, & now I have to wait for the next series. I am not much for druids but this is a great series.
Profile Image for Donna.
2,116 reviews29 followers
December 28, 2020
Very satisfying end to this series. All the loose ends and Colin’s angsty journey of discovery completed. All my favourite characters make a cameo appearance and karmic smack down very satisfying. Leave it to Click to show up with a new adventure. Great read Mr. Massey!
Profile Image for Angela Nebedum.
55 reviews
December 28, 2020
Outstanding As Usual!

There was only the wonderful story to like. However M.D. Massey should develop & practice the art of writing two books at the same time so we don’t have to wait. So please hurry!
1 review
December 31, 2020
Good, getting back to what made this series Great!

For a awhile I was becoming disenchanted with this book series but after reading this book. I have to say it’s getting back to the elements of the story that made me cherish this first time.
3 reviews
January 3, 2021
Very cool

Lots of fun and fantastically well written with episode after episode of smart assed confrontations.
You can not put it down until it’s done. I had a ball reading this one and all the others before it.
Keep em coming. I’m a fan.
Profile Image for Ramona Hlis.
9 reviews2 followers
January 9, 2021
Colin earns his birthright

The plot really moves forward in this installment, a symphony of love, loss and redemption. I devoured the whole thing in one sitting. Looking forward to the next on
21 reviews
January 9, 2021
Terrific ending

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading all about Collin, not just because we share the same last name. This series has everything you’d want in a fantasy series, it’s awesome!!!
3 reviews
January 10, 2021
Loved it!

MD Massey always delivers! Thank you for writing enthralling entertain during a tragic time. Would love to think if Colin were real, he would help dispelled our pandemic. Heartfelt thank you to MD Massey!
Profile Image for Craig Black.
116 reviews9 followers
January 15, 2021
great ending to the first series arc. questions answered, more questions asked, great supporting characters that are interesting enough to have stand alone stories or even series about them ;)
cannot wait to read more in this universe. BUT the ending! what a twist lol
34 reviews1 follower
January 22, 2021
Great series, keeps getting better

Twenty words to tell you that you should read this book. Well if you like great characters continuous action with some serious snarky humor, this book and series is for you.
Profile Image for Pam Bales.
2,539 reviews12 followers
Read
February 11, 2021
Awesome as always

Great conclusion and am already craving more. Lovely interaction of pantheons and urban fantasy characters. Hate when characters are gone, but enjoy meeting new ones.
4 reviews
April 2, 2021
Great end to the series

Great end to the series, but wait, there’s more. The Trickster series is next. I loved the irreverent way McCool deals with gods and goddesses. Hope I would do as well.
6 reviews
June 24, 2021
Good stuff

I enjoyed this story. It was just the right amount violence, and sarcastic humor. If you don't believe me, check your underwear for that poison ivy. It is flowering this time of year.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews

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