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The King's Prey: Saint Dymphna of Ireland
An insane king. His fleeing daughter. Estranged brothers, with a scarred past, risking everything to save her from a fate worse than death. Toss in a holy priest and a lovable wolfhound, and get ready for a wild race across Ireland. Will Dymphna escape her deranged father and his sinful desires?
For the first time ever, the story of Saint Dymphna is brought to life in this dramatic novel for adults and older teens. With raw adventure, gripping action, and even humor in the midst of dark mental turmoil, Susan Peek's newest novel will introduce you to a saint you will love forever! Teenage girls will see that Dymphna was just like them, a real girl, while young men will thrill at the heart-stopping danger and meet heroes they can easily relate to. If ever a Heavenly friend was needed in these times of widespread depression and emotional instability, this forgotten Irish saint is it!
For the first time ever, the story of Saint Dymphna is brought to life in this dramatic novel for adults and older teens. With raw adventure, gripping action, and even humor in the midst of dark mental turmoil, Susan Peek's newest novel will introduce you to a saint you will love forever! Teenage girls will see that Dymphna was just like them, a real girl, while young men will thrill at the heart-stopping danger and meet heroes they can easily relate to. If ever a Heavenly friend was needed in these times of widespread depression and emotional instability, this forgotten Irish saint is it!
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About the author
Susan Peek
28 books154 followersSusan Peek is a widow, mother, grandmother, and Third Order Franciscan. Her passion is writing stories of little-known saints and heroes. She's a member of the Catholic Writers' Guild and one of the founding authors of CatholicTeenBooks.com.
All of her young adult novels have been implemented into Catholic school curricula not only across the nation, but in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand as well. "Saint Magnus, The Last Viking" and "The King's Prey" were both Amazon #1 Sellers among Catholic books, and "Crusader King" was featured as one of the 50 Most Popular Catholic Homeschooling Books in 2013.
Susan lives in northeastern Kansas, where she is busy working on her new novel.
All of her young adult novels have been implemented into Catholic school curricula not only across the nation, but in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand as well. "Saint Magnus, The Last Viking" and "The King's Prey" were both Amazon #1 Sellers among Catholic books, and "Crusader King" was featured as one of the 50 Most Popular Catholic Homeschooling Books in 2013.
Susan lives in northeastern Kansas, where she is busy working on her new novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 25, 2023
When I saw that Susan Peek had written a book about St. Dymphna, I knew I wanted to read it. She is not your average everyday saint. First of all, she was a princess, beautiful and Irish. But that isn't what makes her interesting to me, however proud I am of my Irish heritage. It is rather that Dymphna is known as the patron saint of mental illness, though she could also be invoked for incest, domestic violence/abuse, sexual harassment, as well as a whole host of other relational-deviance problems.
Dymphna's Christian mother died when the girl was only 15 and her pagan father's grief was such that he went mad and took his daughter for his late wife. He began to pursue her to force her to marry him, though she had taken a vow of perpetual virginity.
Despite preparations for Christmas, I could hardly put this book down. This is not your run-of-the-mill hagiography. It reads more like an adventure story. With the help of her friends, the parish priest, court minstrel and his pregnant wife, Dymphna is running away from her crazed and crazy father who has his army searching for her. By association, anyone helping the princess is in as much danger as she is. Also, the minstrel, Brioc, has his own inner demons fighting him which put him at odds with his older brother, now a soldier for the king, though horrified by what he is doing and far more concerned to help his brother and the princess, unbeknownst to them.
An excellent story, partially happy, but as in the case of many saints, not so much in this world. Highly recommended!
Dymphna's Christian mother died when the girl was only 15 and her pagan father's grief was such that he went mad and took his daughter for his late wife. He began to pursue her to force her to marry him, though she had taken a vow of perpetual virginity.
Despite preparations for Christmas, I could hardly put this book down. This is not your run-of-the-mill hagiography. It reads more like an adventure story. With the help of her friends, the parish priest, court minstrel and his pregnant wife, Dymphna is running away from her crazed and crazy father who has his army searching for her. By association, anyone helping the princess is in as much danger as she is. Also, the minstrel, Brioc, has his own inner demons fighting him which put him at odds with his older brother, now a soldier for the king, though horrified by what he is doing and far more concerned to help his brother and the princess, unbeknownst to them.
An excellent story, partially happy, but as in the case of many saints, not so much in this world. Highly recommended!
July 16, 2019
If you are reading this review because, "I don't know, should I buy this book? It doesn't seem very popular... I guess I'll read the reviews." BUY IT. You won't regret it. I'm not a crier, but this book almost moved me to tears. Susan Peek has such writing talents! She uses the good chapters to get you to read the bad chapters (you'll see what I mean when you read it). So excited to see when her next book will come out!
May 15, 2017
Another amazing novel by Susan Peek. I'm such a fan now. I read her book Saint Magnus: The Last Viking, which I loved, so I was so excited to get started on this story. The King's Prey is a story about broken hearts, misunderstandings, and sacrificial love. It tells the story of a king's lost love and how an illness turns what was good into something very evil and sinister. Susan Peek takes another saint's story and brings it to life in this awesome tale. And it certainly didn't disappoint, although it had me on a roller-coaster of emotions throughout.
It was the multitude of misunderstandings between the brothers, Turlough and Brioc,and then with Brioc's wife and Princess Dymphna that drove the story from one bump in the road to another. Not to mention the pursuit of the crazy king. The story is definitely action packed! What I love most about Susan Peek's stories is that I can never predict how it will end. I have a bad habit of trying to guess the end of a story before I've really begun it. I was wrong with this story, and pleasantly so. The author's characters and imagery always come alive and it's difficult to put the book down. This is a fantastic story for older teens. I would warn that younger teens may find some of the story distressing, so parents should definitely read it first. I will definitely recommend this story and St Magnus and I really look forward to reading more from this author.
It was the multitude of misunderstandings between the brothers, Turlough and Brioc,and then with Brioc's wife and Princess Dymphna that drove the story from one bump in the road to another. Not to mention the pursuit of the crazy king. The story is definitely action packed! What I love most about Susan Peek's stories is that I can never predict how it will end. I have a bad habit of trying to guess the end of a story before I've really begun it. I was wrong with this story, and pleasantly so. The author's characters and imagery always come alive and it's difficult to put the book down. This is a fantastic story for older teens. I would warn that younger teens may find some of the story distressing, so parents should definitely read it first. I will definitely recommend this story and St Magnus and I really look forward to reading more from this author.
May 15, 2017
Martyrdom is brutal and doesn’t necessarily lends itself to a lighthearted treatment. Then again, this is the Church that made St. Lawrence, roasted to death over a slow fire, the patron saint of cooks.
Susan Peek, wisely I think, intertwines St. Dymphna’s difficult story with that of two Irish orphan brothers, Turlough and Brioc. Both will come to her defense, seeking to save her from her insane widowed father’s attempt to force her into marriage to him.
While Dymphna’s father, the king, is largely an unsympathetic character, for obvious reasons, Brioc’s character allows the reader to delve into the mind of someone struggling with mental illness – not a murderous, villainous person, but a good and kindhearted person who has suffered numerous losses and traumas.
Interspersed with mortal peril, swashbuckling, and glimpses of mental illness are lighter moments, many of which come via the overgrown wolfhound, Sam, loved by Brioc and, begrudgingly, Turlough. The novel also delves into the fractured relationship between Brioc and Turlough, the seemingly insurmountable distance between Brioc and his pregnant wife Lynnie, and several minor characters.
In the end, you’ll be left with a fuller sense of the horror of St. Dymphna’s struggle, the beauty of loving sacrifice, and the power of those sacrifices when offered to God for the sake of another. Ultimately, as with every Christian story, there is a message of hope.
As in all of Susan Peek’s books, the pace is quick, the stakes high, and action nearly nonstop, making it a smooth read.
(I received an advance copy from the author. Opinions are my own.)
Susan Peek, wisely I think, intertwines St. Dymphna’s difficult story with that of two Irish orphan brothers, Turlough and Brioc. Both will come to her defense, seeking to save her from her insane widowed father’s attempt to force her into marriage to him.
While Dymphna’s father, the king, is largely an unsympathetic character, for obvious reasons, Brioc’s character allows the reader to delve into the mind of someone struggling with mental illness – not a murderous, villainous person, but a good and kindhearted person who has suffered numerous losses and traumas.
Interspersed with mortal peril, swashbuckling, and glimpses of mental illness are lighter moments, many of which come via the overgrown wolfhound, Sam, loved by Brioc and, begrudgingly, Turlough. The novel also delves into the fractured relationship between Brioc and Turlough, the seemingly insurmountable distance between Brioc and his pregnant wife Lynnie, and several minor characters.
In the end, you’ll be left with a fuller sense of the horror of St. Dymphna’s struggle, the beauty of loving sacrifice, and the power of those sacrifices when offered to God for the sake of another. Ultimately, as with every Christian story, there is a message of hope.
As in all of Susan Peek’s books, the pace is quick, the stakes high, and action nearly nonstop, making it a smooth read.
(I received an advance copy from the author. Opinions are my own.)
May 20, 2017
This was the second book by Susan Peek that I have read this spring. And I have already started another. I was even more impressed with this book that I was when I read Saint Magnus The Last Viking, which I thought was an excellent read. This book was compelling and addictive right from the beginning. I love this book and other writing by Susan Peek, who brings to life some lesser known saints.
This book begins with a statement from the author:
“In many chapels,
reddened by the setting sun,
the saints rest silently,
waiting for someone to love them.”
“These words, penned by an unknown priest, long dead,
were the inspiration for this series on the lives of saints
who have fallen deep into the shadows of obscurity.
My hope is that, in reading their heroic stories,
you will make the acquaintance of some of
God's Forgotten Friends”
And this book does an amazing job of doing just that, she brings to life both Saint Dymphna and Saint Gerebran. This book deals with a number of mental health issues. Flashbacks, Blackouts, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and a madness brought on by grief. And it does so without trivializing and of the conditions it is presenting. It also deals with broken families or at least families with great divides and a great number of misunderstandings.
This book was a fascinating read. Both for the time it was set, and the story it tells. But there were times where it was not an easy read. It all starts with a mad king who wants to marry his daughter and rename her to replace her mother. That princess in trying to escape her father’s illness flees to a cottage, and draws in a young musician and her husband. Follow this trio as they garner the aid of a priest and begin the journey to find freedom. This is the story of two very brutal martyrdom’s. But it is also an inspiring story.
I recommend this book and this series. Susan Peek does an amazing job of bringing lesser known saints to life. Though these stories are mostly fiction, a what might have been, they draw from the facts that we know. Well done and I wonder what saint Peek will flesh out for us next.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Susan Peek.
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2017 Catholic Reading Plan!
This book begins with a statement from the author:
“In many chapels,
reddened by the setting sun,
the saints rest silently,
waiting for someone to love them.”
“These words, penned by an unknown priest, long dead,
were the inspiration for this series on the lives of saints
who have fallen deep into the shadows of obscurity.
My hope is that, in reading their heroic stories,
you will make the acquaintance of some of
God's Forgotten Friends”
And this book does an amazing job of doing just that, she brings to life both Saint Dymphna and Saint Gerebran. This book deals with a number of mental health issues. Flashbacks, Blackouts, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and a madness brought on by grief. And it does so without trivializing and of the conditions it is presenting. It also deals with broken families or at least families with great divides and a great number of misunderstandings.
This book was a fascinating read. Both for the time it was set, and the story it tells. But there were times where it was not an easy read. It all starts with a mad king who wants to marry his daughter and rename her to replace her mother. That princess in trying to escape her father’s illness flees to a cottage, and draws in a young musician and her husband. Follow this trio as they garner the aid of a priest and begin the journey to find freedom. This is the story of two very brutal martyrdom’s. But it is also an inspiring story.
I recommend this book and this series. Susan Peek does an amazing job of bringing lesser known saints to life. Though these stories are mostly fiction, a what might have been, they draw from the facts that we know. Well done and I wonder what saint Peek will flesh out for us next.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Susan Peek.
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2017 Catholic Reading Plan!
April 10, 2020
Not only the story of a Saint, but a story of characters to inspire us all.
I just finished reading this in 3 days so I'm still processing it all. I hope to write a longer review later. my heart is happy yet ripped apart as well. Just going to say this was an inspirational read for Lent.
I just finished reading this in 3 days so I'm still processing it all. I hope to write a longer review later. my heart is happy yet ripped apart as well. Just going to say this was an inspirational read for Lent.
January 10, 2020
There are so many things that made me dislike this book. And I feel the need to express them!!
The characters acted very scrupulous. St. Dymphna literally thought it was a sin that she hugged her male friend, who was like a brother to her. (She had taken a vow of chastity)
And the characters got extremely upset when they lied....like they let a lie slip and were like "oh my gosh I need to go to confession!!!!!!"
The female characters (St. Dymphna and Ethlynn) were very unlikable (in my opinion), and had little to no character arch or depth.
I think I would have liked St. Dymphna in this book if the author had made her do more. All she really did was pray and let everyone else protect her. I wish she had helped Brioc (Who I think had PTSD) more...she didn't really talk to him about it, or try to help him. Praying is great, but you need to pray AND take action!
Ethlynn was a cry baby and I can't believe she thought her husband didn't love her. They were having a baby for crying out loud. She was a very weak and unlikable character.
Also, they frequently said "Oh my gosh" which threw me off since this is placed in the 7th century....
In addition, I'm pretty sure girls who were overweight were considered more attractive back then. So it didn't make any sense that Ethlynn was jealous of St. Dymphna for being petite.
SPOILER:
why the heck did they kill the dog it was so pointless to the book?
P.S. If the author is reading this, I hope this doesn't come across as a hate review, I'm just stating my honest opinion.
The characters acted very scrupulous. St. Dymphna literally thought it was a sin that she hugged her male friend, who was like a brother to her. (She had taken a vow of chastity)
And the characters got extremely upset when they lied....like they let a lie slip and were like "oh my gosh I need to go to confession!!!!!!"
The female characters (St. Dymphna and Ethlynn) were very unlikable (in my opinion), and had little to no character arch or depth.
I think I would have liked St. Dymphna in this book if the author had made her do more. All she really did was pray and let everyone else protect her. I wish she had helped Brioc (Who I think had PTSD) more...she didn't really talk to him about it, or try to help him. Praying is great, but you need to pray AND take action!
Ethlynn was a cry baby and I can't believe she thought her husband didn't love her. They were having a baby for crying out loud. She was a very weak and unlikable character.
Also, they frequently said "Oh my gosh" which threw me off since this is placed in the 7th century....
In addition, I'm pretty sure girls who were overweight were considered more attractive back then. So it didn't make any sense that Ethlynn was jealous of St. Dymphna for being petite.
SPOILER:
why the heck did they kill the dog it was so pointless to the book?
P.S. If the author is reading this, I hope this doesn't come across as a hate review, I'm just stating my honest opinion.
March 30, 2019
I love our saints, and their many heroic stories, especially those who have received the crown of martyrdom. Those are some of the many reasons I enjoyed reading Susan Peek's novel, The King's Prey: Saint Dymphna of Ireland.
Dymphna is the patroness of those suffering for nervous and mental afflictions.
This book was an adventure to read, filled with high drama and emotion. Many characters held their breath in this one and so will you. Be ready for a lot of tension. Everyone must react when the king is insane.
The travels, the personalities of the characters, the engaging dialogue kept me reading; the realism of it all.
People do feel sorry for "Poor Princess Dymphna” - the fugitive - yet, her time is short. Who will protect her? There is running, hiding, chasing; risks are high. A sacrifice would take place.
The author dedicated her work "To broken families everywhere." Indeed.
Dymphna is the patroness of those suffering for nervous and mental afflictions.
This book was an adventure to read, filled with high drama and emotion. Many characters held their breath in this one and so will you. Be ready for a lot of tension. Everyone must react when the king is insane.
The travels, the personalities of the characters, the engaging dialogue kept me reading; the realism of it all.
People do feel sorry for "Poor Princess Dymphna” - the fugitive - yet, her time is short. Who will protect her? There is running, hiding, chasing; risks are high. A sacrifice would take place.
The author dedicated her work "To broken families everywhere." Indeed.
May 23, 2017
Susan Peek’s best book yet! She has taken this story about a little known saint and created a heart-pounding adventure. As St. Dymphna flees her demented father, her journey across Ireland makes for an amazing story that will appeal to both genders. Girls will be inspired by this strong, kind, spiritual female. While boys will enjoy the equally compelling story of the two brothers, with a heart-breaking past, that help her. The combination of perfectly timed humor, riveting chase scenes, and swashbuckling fights makes for a must read book.
July 30, 2017
Princess Dymphna's life has become a nightmare. Her mother has died, and her father has gone insane. Overcome with grief, her father begins to believe Dymphna is his wife and vows to marry her. When she's forced to flee the castle to escape her dad, Dymphna runs to the hut of her mom's former minstrel, a young married man named Brioc. Unfortunately, he has his own problems. A tragic incident from his childhood has left him with feverish nightmares, and he can't remember exactly what happened to all of his family members, except that they're almost all dead. The only other living member of his family is a brother who had declared he'd had enough of him.
Susan Peek is a master at keeping up suspense and tension. I read this book when, quite frankly, I really should have been reading some other books. Susan weaves the tale of the two brothers together with the tale of the fleeing Princess Dymphna, and it's hard not to get swept up into these characters who are running for their lives.
Given the fact that this is a tale of a young woman fleeing from a father who wants to marry her, the back of the book suggests that it is best for ages 16 and up due to mature themes. Personally, I think a mature 14 or 15 year old could handle it since Susan never gets graphic about what would happen if her father got her hands on her. I think adults will shudder more than teens will at what is implied. However, there is a certain amount of violence as the story involves some martyrs, so parents should use their best judgment as to whether or not they feel their young teens are ready to handle it.
Highly recommended for older teens, fans of historical fiction, and for those who want to look at saints in a whole new way!
Susan Peek is a master at keeping up suspense and tension. I read this book when, quite frankly, I really should have been reading some other books. Susan weaves the tale of the two brothers together with the tale of the fleeing Princess Dymphna, and it's hard not to get swept up into these characters who are running for their lives.
Given the fact that this is a tale of a young woman fleeing from a father who wants to marry her, the back of the book suggests that it is best for ages 16 and up due to mature themes. Personally, I think a mature 14 or 15 year old could handle it since Susan never gets graphic about what would happen if her father got her hands on her. I think adults will shudder more than teens will at what is implied. However, there is a certain amount of violence as the story involves some martyrs, so parents should use their best judgment as to whether or not they feel their young teens are ready to handle it.
Highly recommended for older teens, fans of historical fiction, and for those who want to look at saints in a whole new way!
August 13, 2018
4.5 stars (4 here, 5 on Amazon) Thought I'd reviewed here already, but couldn't find the review.
I didn't know what to expect from this one, but this is a good story! The opening line hooked me. It's short and intriguing. The story has good flow, and I strongly connected to several of the characters. Like Ms. Peek's other saint stories, the dialogue is modern to engage the young reader without containing any trendy characteristics. This story's setting is 7th Century Ireland, and I wish I'd experienced more of the scenic landscape, architecture, agricultural details, and perhaps foraging techniques of the characters on the run as they attempted to survive. I enjoy that sort of stuff, although teen readers probably would not expect those details. Without giving anything away, one of the female characters seemed annoyingly jealous of Dymphna and (male character), considering the dangerous circumstances. The climax was pulse-pounding, and the ending was good. I recommend this book to anyone for a clean read combining history and Christianity. I received an ARC of this book from the author but was not expected to give a favorable review.
I didn't know what to expect from this one, but this is a good story! The opening line hooked me. It's short and intriguing. The story has good flow, and I strongly connected to several of the characters. Like Ms. Peek's other saint stories, the dialogue is modern to engage the young reader without containing any trendy characteristics. This story's setting is 7th Century Ireland, and I wish I'd experienced more of the scenic landscape, architecture, agricultural details, and perhaps foraging techniques of the characters on the run as they attempted to survive. I enjoy that sort of stuff, although teen readers probably would not expect those details. Without giving anything away, one of the female characters seemed annoyingly jealous of Dymphna and (male character), considering the dangerous circumstances. The climax was pulse-pounding, and the ending was good. I recommend this book to anyone for a clean read combining history and Christianity. I received an ARC of this book from the author but was not expected to give a favorable review.
April 15, 2019
I believe this book did Saint Dymphna a great injustice. She was a powerful and strong young woman who stole money from her father and ran away to another country and opened a hospital for the mentally ill. She was not some prim little princess who spent all her time fumbling around gathering the wrong kind of fire wood, thinking about washing her hair, and how ugly her clothes are.
August 19, 2017
Dramatic, unexpected
True, I'll never think of St. Dymphna the same way now. What an amazing story! Surprises at every turn. Great job!
True, I'll never think of St. Dymphna the same way now. What an amazing story! Surprises at every turn. Great job!
May 2, 2019
I read this book over the past few weeks. For the most part, I enjoyed it. I did find myself a bit distracted at times as the group fled over and over. I am glad I read it. I understand now why St. Dymphna was chosen for the patron saint of mental illness.
April 28, 2024
Olivia received for her 15th birthday. She rates it 5 stars!
December 21, 2020
I want to give this 5 stars, as it's incredibly well-written and I didn't want to put it down. I will admit to getting super frustrated at some parts and wanting to throw the book (or in my case, my e-reader) across the room. But it is VERY well-written.
Yet...I feel like this is a lot less about Dymphna than about the people she is with along the way. And while they are essential in this retelling of her story, the book definitely focuses almost solely on their growth. So that makes me want to give it 3 stars.
4 stars it is.
There are two brothers named Brioc and Turlough. Their parents and siblings died 2 years before the first chapter (629 AD) and teenage Turlough has been raising the now 10-year-old Brioc since. Brioc has some issues with wolves due to a traumatic experience.
But Turlough needs money, and the best way for that is to join King Daemon's army. So he drops Brioc off at a monastery and leaves his brother in mental shambles.
11 years later, Brioc has lost his job as the royal minstrel after the queen dies. Daemon's daughter is Dymphna, and his own mental state is...well, there is a disability there that outdoes the understandable trauma Brioc went through. Dymphna and Brioc are friends; Brioc is married to a Ethlynn.
When Dymphna's father first tries to rape her (thinking she's her mother) and then tries to marry her (thinking that hey they look alike so it's almost the same thing), she seeks out Brioc's help. The three end up seeking out a Catholic priest, Father Gerebran. Father was brought to the palace by Dymphna's mother, but her ultra pagan father and druid Faidh cast out all Christianity.
But Dymphna consecrated herself to Christ a year before (because princesses can't enter convents) and her faith is extremely strong.
Her prayers have power, and it's beautiful.
Brioc's wolfhound Sam is fan-freaking-tastic. She helps Brioc heal at first, but he starts to get episodes again--likely (IMO) because he and Turlough cross paths every so often due to their positions.
Another soldier called Neill is a "Christian" in name but frequents brothels and blackmails Turlough for money. He doesn't mind seeking out women who look like the queen (before it was determined Dymphna would take her place) and locking them up. He's quite despicable. I would loathe him except 1) other characters are far more icky and 2) at one point he comes across Ethlynn with Father Gerebran, and IDK if Peek meant this, but his compassion towards her leads me to conclude this:
He thinks Ethlynn is a poor girl on her way to a convent because of her pregnancy "problem," something that he could sympathize with because he is loose with the ladies and may not know if he's fathered anyone.
Brioc doesn't know at first Ethlynn is pregnant because they keep secrets from and even lie to each other and it's frustrating.
Brioc leaves Sam with Turlough when he sneaks out with his wife, Dymphna, and Gerebran.
Turlough realizes that Brioc is a wanted man and goes out with Sam to find the group.
But Brioc thinks Turlough is seeking him out to kill him, and there's a chase going on especially because the other soldiers ARE looking for Brioc (because of Dymphna) and use Turlough to track him. So these parts were highly irritating and I wanted to hit something.
Yet...I feel like this is a lot less about Dymphna than about the people she is with along the way. And while they are essential in this retelling of her story, the book definitely focuses almost solely on their growth. So that makes me want to give it 3 stars.
4 stars it is.
There are two brothers named Brioc and Turlough. Their parents and siblings died 2 years before the first chapter (629 AD) and teenage Turlough has been raising the now 10-year-old Brioc since. Brioc has some issues with wolves due to a traumatic experience.
But Turlough needs money, and the best way for that is to join King Daemon's army. So he drops Brioc off at a monastery and leaves his brother in mental shambles.
11 years later, Brioc has lost his job as the royal minstrel after the queen dies. Daemon's daughter is Dymphna, and his own mental state is...well, there is a disability there that outdoes the understandable trauma Brioc went through. Dymphna and Brioc are friends; Brioc is married to a Ethlynn.
When Dymphna's father first tries to rape her (thinking she's her mother) and then tries to marry her (thinking that hey they look alike so it's almost the same thing), she seeks out Brioc's help. The three end up seeking out a Catholic priest, Father Gerebran. Father was brought to the palace by Dymphna's mother, but her ultra pagan father and druid Faidh cast out all Christianity.
But Dymphna consecrated herself to Christ a year before (because princesses can't enter convents) and her faith is extremely strong.
Her prayers have power, and it's beautiful.
Brioc's wolfhound Sam is fan-freaking-tastic. She helps Brioc heal at first, but he starts to get episodes again--likely (IMO) because he and Turlough cross paths every so often due to their positions.
Another soldier called Neill is a "Christian" in name but frequents brothels and blackmails Turlough for money. He doesn't mind seeking out women who look like the queen (before it was determined Dymphna would take her place) and locking them up. He's quite despicable. I would loathe him except 1) other characters are far more icky and 2) at one point he comes across Ethlynn with Father Gerebran, and IDK if Peek meant this, but his compassion towards her leads me to conclude this:
He thinks Ethlynn is a poor girl on her way to a convent because of her pregnancy "problem," something that he could sympathize with because he is loose with the ladies and may not know if he's fathered anyone.
Brioc doesn't know at first Ethlynn is pregnant because they keep secrets from and even lie to each other and it's frustrating.
Brioc leaves Sam with Turlough when he sneaks out with his wife, Dymphna, and Gerebran.
Turlough realizes that Brioc is a wanted man and goes out with Sam to find the group.
But Brioc thinks Turlough is seeking him out to kill him, and there's a chase going on especially because the other soldiers ARE looking for Brioc (because of Dymphna) and use Turlough to track him. So these parts were highly irritating and I wanted to hit something.
May 6, 2017
I discovered this saint years ago when praying for someone with mental illness, and I am so glad to be able to get to know her better through Susan Peek’s story.
THE KING'S PREY is filled with emotionally-charged moments, humor, and high action; never a dull moment. Dymphna’s story is a difficult one. Her mother was a Christian and taught her the faith, but her father was a powerful pagan king with evil Druid advisors. Once Dymphna’s mother died, her father’s mental health deteriorated. He wanted his wife back and his confused mind saw her in his daughter. The teenage Dymphna, wanting nothing to do with a sinful arrangement—though it would provide all the comforts of life a king could offer—fled with the saintly Father Gerebran and others that you will meet in this story.
This story brings the ugliness of evil and sin (in the King’s actions and his Druid advisors) up against the beauty of faithfulness, self-sacrifice, and bearing all for the kingdom of God.
I am a fan of Susan Peek’s saint stories. And so are my boys. Every one of them touches my heart and increases my devotion to the saints. I am thankful that she has dedicated herself to bringing these little-known saints to life for us. St. Dymphna is so needed today as a role model for purity and an intercessor for all those who suffer from mental illness. Privileged to read an advanced copy of this book, I highly recommend it to teens and adults.
THE KING'S PREY is filled with emotionally-charged moments, humor, and high action; never a dull moment. Dymphna’s story is a difficult one. Her mother was a Christian and taught her the faith, but her father was a powerful pagan king with evil Druid advisors. Once Dymphna’s mother died, her father’s mental health deteriorated. He wanted his wife back and his confused mind saw her in his daughter. The teenage Dymphna, wanting nothing to do with a sinful arrangement—though it would provide all the comforts of life a king could offer—fled with the saintly Father Gerebran and others that you will meet in this story.
This story brings the ugliness of evil and sin (in the King’s actions and his Druid advisors) up against the beauty of faithfulness, self-sacrifice, and bearing all for the kingdom of God.
I am a fan of Susan Peek’s saint stories. And so are my boys. Every one of them touches my heart and increases my devotion to the saints. I am thankful that she has dedicated herself to bringing these little-known saints to life for us. St. Dymphna is so needed today as a role model for purity and an intercessor for all those who suffer from mental illness. Privileged to read an advanced copy of this book, I highly recommend it to teens and adults.
June 3, 2021
This book is absolutely amazing! I put off reading this book for a long time because I thought it wouldn't really be my style since I tend to like books set in modern times. Wow, was I wrong! Susan Peek does an excellent job bringing St. Dymphna to life for the modern reader! I simply loved this book, and I have a new appreciation for this courageous Saint.
This book is absolutely amazing! I put off reading it for a long time because I was afraid it wouldn't be my style since I tend to prefer books set in modern times. Wow, was I wrong! Susan Peek does a fabulous job bringing St. Dymphna's story to life for the modern reader. Not only did I get to read a riveting story, but I also have a new appreciation for this courageous Saint.
This book is absolutely amazing! I put off reading it for a long time because I was afraid it wouldn't be my style since I tend to prefer books set in modern times. Wow, was I wrong! Susan Peek does a fabulous job bringing St. Dymphna's story to life for the modern reader. Not only did I get to read a riveting story, but I also have a new appreciation for this courageous Saint.
May 8, 2017
The King’s Prey, by Susan Peek
Terrible but true, Princess Dymphna flees Daemon, her father who, in his madness believes her to be his late wife, Odilla. He demands that Dymphna marries him. With the aid of her confessor and a few companions, Dymphna flees across Ireland and eventually reaches Belgium.
Susan Peek stays true to the Lives of the Saints’ outline for St. Dymphna. She fills in the gaps with a fast moving tale of her companions, especially two brothers, Brioc, her minstrel and Turlough one of her father’s soldiers. Like the fog of war, confusion and misinformation plague Dymphna’s escape. Peek amplifies tensions and leads her characters into conflict, danger, and excruciatingly painful decisions.
Although the words Irish and Catholic seem to be welded together, Dymphna story shows her not only as a Christian but a consecrated virgin living in a pagan household. Her father and his druid companions ignore her religious values and agree to the king’s intended incest.
Dymphna’s plight resonates with many young women in society today. She suffers attempted sexual abuse in her home. She becomes a homeless runaway, a refugee, and a victim of violence and the uncontrolled mental illness of her father. Through all of her flight, she places her hope in God and takes consolation in His protection. She submits to God’s will, and in the end, through her intercession, God showers blessings on her friends. She remains a patron of those troubled with mental illness.
Turlough and Brioc dominate the novel. Their entire family dies of disease and famine. The older brother, Turlough makes a desperate choice to save the young Brioc, setting them at odds for many years. Turlough cannot persuade Brioc of his love. In fact, every attempt to help Brioc convinces the younger brother that Turlough is out to kill him. Throughout most of the book, Turlough attempts to reconcile with Brioc. His attempts are thwarted by conditions related to Brioc’s own mental illness. Dymphna brings the brothers closer.
Susan Peek writes for the younger readers, a word that will rouse them. She has devised a clever, perhaps labyrinthine tale, a tragedy of errors on the part of mostly Brioc and his wife, Ethlynn. They experience a difficult life, and their role in Dymphna’s escape only deepens their pain. Peek delivers a spellbinding tale of suspense.
The King’s Prey should appeal to young, religious Catholics, but would engage people of other faiths and ages. Victims of family sexual abuse, runaways, and refugees can see in Dymphna a courageous companion. Hers is a heroic tale and will grip the reader’s emotions.
Since I am a fan of Saint Dymphna, I wanted a greater focus on her life and thoughts. Unfortunately, not very much is available. The story of the brothers, although fictional, did have an impact. The most powerful moments came in the last chapters of the book where Dymphna rewards her friends, and the brothers have a chance to untangle their relationship.
Of all the characters, I liked Turlough the best. He always loved his brother, made difficult decisions to save his brother, and responded to Brioc’s rejection without malice.
Susan Peek’s mission is to bring to light some of the forgotten saints such as Saint Magnus, the Last Viking, and Saint Camillus de Lellis. The King’s Prey clearly brought attention to Saint Dymphna. I would like to see more research into her life and her patronage extended in a world that is in woeful need of her strength.
Terrible but true, Princess Dymphna flees Daemon, her father who, in his madness believes her to be his late wife, Odilla. He demands that Dymphna marries him. With the aid of her confessor and a few companions, Dymphna flees across Ireland and eventually reaches Belgium.
Susan Peek stays true to the Lives of the Saints’ outline for St. Dymphna. She fills in the gaps with a fast moving tale of her companions, especially two brothers, Brioc, her minstrel and Turlough one of her father’s soldiers. Like the fog of war, confusion and misinformation plague Dymphna’s escape. Peek amplifies tensions and leads her characters into conflict, danger, and excruciatingly painful decisions.
Although the words Irish and Catholic seem to be welded together, Dymphna story shows her not only as a Christian but a consecrated virgin living in a pagan household. Her father and his druid companions ignore her religious values and agree to the king’s intended incest.
Dymphna’s plight resonates with many young women in society today. She suffers attempted sexual abuse in her home. She becomes a homeless runaway, a refugee, and a victim of violence and the uncontrolled mental illness of her father. Through all of her flight, she places her hope in God and takes consolation in His protection. She submits to God’s will, and in the end, through her intercession, God showers blessings on her friends. She remains a patron of those troubled with mental illness.
Turlough and Brioc dominate the novel. Their entire family dies of disease and famine. The older brother, Turlough makes a desperate choice to save the young Brioc, setting them at odds for many years. Turlough cannot persuade Brioc of his love. In fact, every attempt to help Brioc convinces the younger brother that Turlough is out to kill him. Throughout most of the book, Turlough attempts to reconcile with Brioc. His attempts are thwarted by conditions related to Brioc’s own mental illness. Dymphna brings the brothers closer.
Susan Peek writes for the younger readers, a word that will rouse them. She has devised a clever, perhaps labyrinthine tale, a tragedy of errors on the part of mostly Brioc and his wife, Ethlynn. They experience a difficult life, and their role in Dymphna’s escape only deepens their pain. Peek delivers a spellbinding tale of suspense.
The King’s Prey should appeal to young, religious Catholics, but would engage people of other faiths and ages. Victims of family sexual abuse, runaways, and refugees can see in Dymphna a courageous companion. Hers is a heroic tale and will grip the reader’s emotions.
Since I am a fan of Saint Dymphna, I wanted a greater focus on her life and thoughts. Unfortunately, not very much is available. The story of the brothers, although fictional, did have an impact. The most powerful moments came in the last chapters of the book where Dymphna rewards her friends, and the brothers have a chance to untangle their relationship.
Of all the characters, I liked Turlough the best. He always loved his brother, made difficult decisions to save his brother, and responded to Brioc’s rejection without malice.
Susan Peek’s mission is to bring to light some of the forgotten saints such as Saint Magnus, the Last Viking, and Saint Camillus de Lellis. The King’s Prey clearly brought attention to Saint Dymphna. I would like to see more research into her life and her patronage extended in a world that is in woeful need of her strength.
January 23, 2024
I sincerely wish you could give half stars on Goodreads, because really and truly, this book is a 3.5 star book. I hate to say it, but I have to be honest in a book review (I would ask for nothing but complete honesty if someone was reviewing a book of mine): the dialogue was simply ghastly. Yes, I understand that this book is a YA book, and as such, has to “grab” its intended audience. Be that as it may, however, teenagers aren’t as stupid as some would believe, and they are GREAT at imitating, so instead of injecting a YA book with the same sort of lingo that all the teens are using now (aka, having almost every character use the word “like” entirely too often, and basically any other colloquialism of teens from the most recent 2,000’s you can think of [I physically cringed every time a character spoke a single word in this book]) why not instead use language that they can aspire to, and bring them higher linguistically than where they are now? I’m sure it would be very hard to use actual language that was used in 7th Century Ireland and “grab” most readers, but the dialogue used in this book is simply “low hanging fruit”, in my opinion, and she could have done better with it 🤷🏻♀️
Now that we’ve gotten the bad part out of the way, and the reason I took away 1.5 stars, here’s the good part, and the reason I give it 3.5 stars:
Susan Peek made St. Dymphna come alive for me. And maybe that doesn’t seem like a big deal, but for someone who was diagnosed with debilitating mental illness not even two years after she read this book, it is a very big deal. I barely knew anything about St. Dymphna before I read this book, but after I read it, I was firmly resolved to add a trip to Geel, Belgium (where St. Dymphna’s shrine is) to my already planned trip to Europe. The stop in Geel never did happen (maybe that’s why the debilitating mental illness DID happen? Just kidding, that’s an awful joke 😆) but I can tell you I’m going to make that trip happen, by hook or by crook, before I die. Certainly, artistic liberties were taken in this book- they basically always are, in any good work of Art. But they really, really worked. I don’t remember everything I read, as I read this in 2017, and I’m sure I would be more critical now of it than I was then, as I only get more artistically critical with age 😂 but I do firmly remember the feelings this book evoked, and the sense that it gave me, and I can tell you that St. Dymphna is one of my very best friends now. Thank you, Susan Peek, for that.
(I’m sorry this review is so long… I try to be super detailed with writers who are just starting out, or whose work is barely known at all. Constructive Criticism is extremely important to any real artist, so I firmly believe Susan will (hopefully?) forgive my ripping her dialogue to shreds 😂)
Now that we’ve gotten the bad part out of the way, and the reason I took away 1.5 stars, here’s the good part, and the reason I give it 3.5 stars:
Susan Peek made St. Dymphna come alive for me. And maybe that doesn’t seem like a big deal, but for someone who was diagnosed with debilitating mental illness not even two years after she read this book, it is a very big deal. I barely knew anything about St. Dymphna before I read this book, but after I read it, I was firmly resolved to add a trip to Geel, Belgium (where St. Dymphna’s shrine is) to my already planned trip to Europe. The stop in Geel never did happen (maybe that’s why the debilitating mental illness DID happen? Just kidding, that’s an awful joke 😆) but I can tell you I’m going to make that trip happen, by hook or by crook, before I die. Certainly, artistic liberties were taken in this book- they basically always are, in any good work of Art. But they really, really worked. I don’t remember everything I read, as I read this in 2017, and I’m sure I would be more critical now of it than I was then, as I only get more artistically critical with age 😂 but I do firmly remember the feelings this book evoked, and the sense that it gave me, and I can tell you that St. Dymphna is one of my very best friends now. Thank you, Susan Peek, for that.
(I’m sorry this review is so long… I try to be super detailed with writers who are just starting out, or whose work is barely known at all. Constructive Criticism is extremely important to any real artist, so I firmly believe Susan will (hopefully?) forgive my ripping her dialogue to shreds 😂)
September 24, 2025
I thought this book too terrifying. Even the title is unsettling and evokes terror. It does not belong in the gift store at the shrine of St. Dymphna where I bought it.
According to the tradition of St. Dymphna her father, King Daemon, considered his daughter Dymphna to be his deceased wife. He wanted to commit incest by marrying his daughter. She fled to Gheel, Flanders with Fr.Gerebran. King Daemon in a fit of mentally ill rage beheaded Dymphna because she refused his incest. Fr. Gerbran was also beheaded. This is known from the tradition of Dymphna.
However, King Daemon is portrayed as an inhuman beast who plays with dead rats and rages constantly. Is this a humane way to portray the mentally insane?
To open her story with his attempt to kill her was too dramatic for the sake of drama. The attack was never fully resolved until chapters later. The following descriptions of her father's mental illness are disgusting.
The story switches between Dymphna and the the to two make-believe brothers too often
Brioc was portrayed too often as embracing suicide. The darkness inside which all but consumed him may have been common for PTSD survivors but did not belong in a book for teens. Teens are already in the grip of a suicide epidemic.
The worst part of the book is Brioc slitting his beloved wolfhound's throat. That alone makes the book unfit for reading by anyone.
The pouting of Lynnie out of misplaced jealousy and the physical infatuation of Turlough with Paulien are not good examples of love for teen girls. Young women need positive role models of romantic love, not pouting and descriptions of a man's rushing hormones.
I will not keep this book. I will recommend that the gift shop at St Dymphna's shrine in Ohio stop selling it.
Sheila Antosch
According to the tradition of St. Dymphna her father, King Daemon, considered his daughter Dymphna to be his deceased wife. He wanted to commit incest by marrying his daughter. She fled to Gheel, Flanders with Fr.Gerebran. King Daemon in a fit of mentally ill rage beheaded Dymphna because she refused his incest. Fr. Gerbran was also beheaded. This is known from the tradition of Dymphna.
However, King Daemon is portrayed as an inhuman beast who plays with dead rats and rages constantly. Is this a humane way to portray the mentally insane?
To open her story with his attempt to kill her was too dramatic for the sake of drama. The attack was never fully resolved until chapters later. The following descriptions of her father's mental illness are disgusting.
The story switches between Dymphna and the the to two make-believe brothers too often
Brioc was portrayed too often as embracing suicide. The darkness inside which all but consumed him may have been common for PTSD survivors but did not belong in a book for teens. Teens are already in the grip of a suicide epidemic.
The worst part of the book is Brioc slitting his beloved wolfhound's throat. That alone makes the book unfit for reading by anyone.
The pouting of Lynnie out of misplaced jealousy and the physical infatuation of Turlough with Paulien are not good examples of love for teen girls. Young women need positive role models of romantic love, not pouting and descriptions of a man's rushing hormones.
I will not keep this book. I will recommend that the gift shop at St Dymphna's shrine in Ohio stop selling it.
Sheila Antosch
July 26, 2025
I wrote this purposely vague to avoid spoilers, but still put the warning because spoilera are implied. I really loved parts of this book. It fits for the ya audience. The pace of the book is fast and thrilling. The characters with redemption arcs were well done. However, no one in this book seemed to have the least but of reasoning skills. It would have made WAAAAY more sense had the characters not been privy to certain information. Instead, they know all sorts of things and never put it together. Infuriating and unbelievable. I also struggled with the female characters. They are both incredibly whiney. Of course some tears were expected, but every other page was too much. It also felt unrealistic for the Irish. The Irish are infamous for they're shoving down of emotions and their cheerful grit. My Irish grandmother would have had quite a lot to say to those 2. I did thoroughly enjoy the narration on the audible version of the audio book. Even though this one missed the mark for me, I look forward to reading other books from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2020
Susan Peek is an excellent author, who brings to life saints known and unknown. She shows them as very human, and sometimes you forget that you are reading about a saint! Yet even though some events are embellished with details that are created by the author, she mixes them with the known facts in a way that all flows smoothly to give a great story.
With St. Dymphna we learn about an unknown saint who had to deal with a father who had a mental illness, and wanted to force his daughter to become his wife. We are left on edge throughout the story as he spends his time hunting her down.
The story and the subjects covered are dealt with very well, with surprise and suspense keeping the reader turning the pages.
With St. Dymphna we learn about an unknown saint who had to deal with a father who had a mental illness, and wanted to force his daughter to become his wife. We are left on edge throughout the story as he spends his time hunting her down.
The story and the subjects covered are dealt with very well, with surprise and suspense keeping the reader turning the pages.
November 4, 2022
I listened to this on Audible and it was outstanding! I have a very special devotion to St. Dymphna this book gave a vivid look at the time period she lived in.
I was fascinated by the supporting characters and felt completely moved to tears wondering if I would be so faithful when I was surrounded by so much pain.
I do think it is a very tough story to listen to if you have mental illness in your family, so be sure and read it first before having your teens read it.
I can't wait to learn more about St. Dymphna! Susan Peek is an incredible author.
I was fascinated by the supporting characters and felt completely moved to tears wondering if I would be so faithful when I was surrounded by so much pain.
I do think it is a very tough story to listen to if you have mental illness in your family, so be sure and read it first before having your teens read it.
I can't wait to learn more about St. Dymphna! Susan Peek is an incredible author.
December 6, 2018
Don't judge this book by it's cover
Knowing the story of Saint Dymphna, Ii we ones how it could be written in a way that would be appropriate for kids. But Mrs Peek did a sensitive and very beautiful job. I would not recommend this book for elementary school children, but for older children, it is an exciting and encouraging and challenging sorry, told with skill. I look forward to reading more of her books!
Knowing the story of Saint Dymphna, Ii we ones how it could be written in a way that would be appropriate for kids. But Mrs Peek did a sensitive and very beautiful job. I would not recommend this book for elementary school children, but for older children, it is an exciting and encouraging and challenging sorry, told with skill. I look forward to reading more of her books!
May 22, 2024
An interesting concept, retelling the story of Dymphna of Ireland. It is important children learn these stories and for children they are good-carefully accentuating the main points with some repeats and the prospect of fear for the heroine who carries on regardless because of her faith. I think, as an adult I need a more pacey description of the plot, but then it is a children's book and I congratulate Susan Peek for a creating a book for children of this quality.
May 8, 2017
This is a difficult story to tell well. The historical figures are a source of grace amid great tragedy. Susan Peek does an amazing job pairing the creative aspects of storytelling with the reality of a dramatic and sometimes traumatic spiritual journey. Her writing is fast-paced and vividly descriptive with moments of humor to break the tension.
December 31, 2021
Great adventure book filled with hope
I liked the story but the detail slowed the story down. Its just my opinion but the detail was a lot. Good depiction of PTSD. As person suffering from the traumatic grief of a suicide loss of a child parts of this book were hard,but I'm glad I read it.
I liked the story but the detail slowed the story down. Its just my opinion but the detail was a lot. Good depiction of PTSD. As person suffering from the traumatic grief of a suicide loss of a child parts of this book were hard,but I'm glad I read it.
August 19, 2019
Engaging
This story of the martyrdom of St Dymphna kept me wanting to keep reading, even though I knew that as a martyr, she was going to die. I feel I learned a lot about St Dymphna from this story.
This story of the martyrdom of St Dymphna kept me wanting to keep reading, even though I knew that as a martyr, she was going to die. I feel I learned a lot about St Dymphna from this story.
June 16, 2022
Great read! Very interesting and sad book on a saint. Eye opening on mental illness and anxiety which Saint Dymphna is the patron saint of. You can easily relate to the characters and each of their struggles with mental illness.
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