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Song of Seare #3
The Sword and the Song
THE SHADOW OF WAR
Seare is at war. The Red Druid has continued to gain strength and power, and the people of Seare suffer beneath the ravages of the isle’s unbound spirits. The Fíréin are all that stand between the land and certain disaster. But there is strife within the Brotherhood as well: Eoghan still refuses to claim his rightful throne, leaving the responsibilities of rule to Conor and creating an uncomfortable distance between the sworn brothers.
When Conor leaves Ard Dhaimin to find the key to defeating the Red Druid, he delves into a world of shadows and danger which will bring him to the brink of madness and back. All the while Eoghan and Aine are left to pursue their own mission to defeat their adversary through her magical gifts.
But as the final battle looms ever closer, they realize that the cost of defeating the Red Druid may be greater than they’re willing to pay… and that nothing—and no one—is as it seems.
Seare is at war. The Red Druid has continued to gain strength and power, and the people of Seare suffer beneath the ravages of the isle’s unbound spirits. The Fíréin are all that stand between the land and certain disaster. But there is strife within the Brotherhood as well: Eoghan still refuses to claim his rightful throne, leaving the responsibilities of rule to Conor and creating an uncomfortable distance between the sworn brothers.
When Conor leaves Ard Dhaimin to find the key to defeating the Red Druid, he delves into a world of shadows and danger which will bring him to the brink of madness and back. All the while Eoghan and Aine are left to pursue their own mission to defeat their adversary through her magical gifts.
But as the final battle looms ever closer, they realize that the cost of defeating the Red Druid may be greater than they’re willing to pay… and that nothing—and no one—is as it seems.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 11, 2022
5 people are currently reading
386 people want to read
About the author
C.E. Laureano
4 books67 followersC.E. Laureano’s love of fantasy began with a trip through a magical wardrobe, and she has never looked back. She’s happiest when her day involves martial arts, swords, and a well-choreographed fight scene, though when pressed, she’ll admit to a love of theater and travel as well. Appropriately, she’s wife to a martial arts master and mom to two boys who spend most of their time jumping off things and finding objects to turn into lightsabers. They live in Denver, Colorado with a menagerie of small pets.
C.E. also writes contemporary romance under the name Carla Laureano.
C.E. also writes contemporary romance under the name Carla Laureano.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 27, 2024
3.5⭐️A clash of brothers and the shadow of war. Overall this was okay. I would have liked the romance aspect to play out a bit differently. I was a bit disappointed by the last 25% of the book. I did leave me wanting more. Although there was a time jump I wanted more. Books one and two were amazing but this just fell a bit flat for me. I still think the series is worth reading.
CW/TW: death, war violence, off page references to physical and sexual assault
CW/TW: death, war violence, off page references to physical and sexual assault
November 17, 2018
Oh, I do wish I could give this book 10 stars! I was so happy to at last begin the long awaited last book in The Song of Sears trilogy. I didn't think I would like Christian fantasy, but had thoroughly enjoyed Carla Laureano's contemporary novel, so I thought I'd give the fantasy a try. Wow, what I would have missed had I not read these books.
When the second book came out, I reread the first in preparation for Beneath the Forsaken City, book two to Oath of The Brotherhood. It was amazing! I eagerly watched for The Sword and The Song. I loved these characters and longed to know what they would experience in this last installment.
The island of Seare is at war. The Red Druid is gathering strength and power to stand against Conor, Eoghan, and the Firein Brotherhood. But there is a bit of strife between Conor and Eoghan, causing distance between them. Conor leaves to find the key to defeating the Red Druid, leaving Aine to worry about him falling prey to the druid and other dangers. How will they make it? There is danger everywhere and from every source, even within their own fortress. Nothing and no one is at it seems. Who can they trust?
Carla Laureano has crafted a magnificent ending to this trilogy. Each character is more in depth, more moving and more real to the reader. They were before, but this go round, they are people you never want to let go, never want to finish the book and say goodbye, but hungry to finish to find out the ending.
I won't give anything away, so there will be no spoilers here. I can't even begin to imagine how Carla has so much of this in her mind, to be able to write such a spectacular tale! I literally wept through the last half of one chapter, tears streaming down my face so fast and hard, I had to wipe them away to see the words on the page. When I finished the chapter, I just sobbed aloud. Literally. This book was absolutely outstanding! This series is one that will have pride of place on my bookshelves, destined to be read again and again. They deserve to be made into a miniseries, too. This would make great theatrical work.
I really can't say enough good things about this book and the two before it. I am not gifted enough to describe how wonderful this series was. I wish it didn't have to end.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not encouraged to give a favorable review, and all my opinions are my own and honest.
Just finished a reread 3 years later and it was just as good and even more insightful.
When the second book came out, I reread the first in preparation for Beneath the Forsaken City, book two to Oath of The Brotherhood. It was amazing! I eagerly watched for The Sword and The Song. I loved these characters and longed to know what they would experience in this last installment.
The island of Seare is at war. The Red Druid is gathering strength and power to stand against Conor, Eoghan, and the Firein Brotherhood. But there is a bit of strife between Conor and Eoghan, causing distance between them. Conor leaves to find the key to defeating the Red Druid, leaving Aine to worry about him falling prey to the druid and other dangers. How will they make it? There is danger everywhere and from every source, even within their own fortress. Nothing and no one is at it seems. Who can they trust?
Carla Laureano has crafted a magnificent ending to this trilogy. Each character is more in depth, more moving and more real to the reader. They were before, but this go round, they are people you never want to let go, never want to finish the book and say goodbye, but hungry to finish to find out the ending.
I won't give anything away, so there will be no spoilers here. I can't even begin to imagine how Carla has so much of this in her mind, to be able to write such a spectacular tale! I literally wept through the last half of one chapter, tears streaming down my face so fast and hard, I had to wipe them away to see the words on the page. When I finished the chapter, I just sobbed aloud. Literally. This book was absolutely outstanding! This series is one that will have pride of place on my bookshelves, destined to be read again and again. They deserve to be made into a miniseries, too. This would make great theatrical work.
I really can't say enough good things about this book and the two before it. I am not gifted enough to describe how wonderful this series was. I wish it didn't have to end.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not encouraged to give a favorable review, and all my opinions are my own and honest.
Just finished a reread 3 years later and it was just as good and even more insightful.
June 21, 2017
My thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers NavPress for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
Heavy sigh.
I wanted SO MUCH to love this book. I LOVED the first one. Devoured it in practically one sitting and went straight onto the second one. The second one wasn't as good as the first, but it was still decent. The characters all seemed to have undergone lobotomies, but I figured that was just the "second book slump". I was hopeful that the final book would pick it back up to first book levels.
Nope. I was wrong. One of the main MC's went all cry-baby-emo-boy and the others maintained their stupidity. The Big Bad was always two steps ahead of the good guys and the ending was completely over the top. Then the last bit of the epilogue was confusing. Do they need to quest to destroy ALL of the runic jewelry/talismans or what?
The first book was AWESOME. I suggest reading that, then crafting your own ending for the rest. Not saying the second and third books are bad, just that they didn't work for me. I will definitely read more by this author. She writes combat very well and I like how she grew the characters in the first book. I just didn't like the way they continued. However, I have heard that sometimes characters can end up doing their own thing. That could be what they did here. Not a bad thing, but maybe not completely planned.
This book is a 2 star book to me. I didn't hate it, but I'm not crazy about it. First book is five stars, second one is a 3.5 that I rounded to a four, with the expectation that the third book would bring it back up. I started reading this trilogy for Lent. Ate up the first two books. Finally finished this book a few days ago, well after Easter had come and gone. I just didn't want to pick it up. Never a good sign for me and a book.
Heavy sigh.
I wanted SO MUCH to love this book. I LOVED the first one. Devoured it in practically one sitting and went straight onto the second one. The second one wasn't as good as the first, but it was still decent. The characters all seemed to have undergone lobotomies, but I figured that was just the "second book slump". I was hopeful that the final book would pick it back up to first book levels.
Nope. I was wrong. One of the main MC's went all cry-baby-emo-boy and the others maintained their stupidity. The Big Bad was always two steps ahead of the good guys and the ending was completely over the top. Then the last bit of the epilogue was confusing. Do they need to quest to destroy ALL of the runic jewelry/talismans or what?
The first book was AWESOME. I suggest reading that, then crafting your own ending for the rest. Not saying the second and third books are bad, just that they didn't work for me. I will definitely read more by this author. She writes combat very well and I like how she grew the characters in the first book. I just didn't like the way they continued. However, I have heard that sometimes characters can end up doing their own thing. That could be what they did here. Not a bad thing, but maybe not completely planned.
This book is a 2 star book to me. I didn't hate it, but I'm not crazy about it. First book is five stars, second one is a 3.5 that I rounded to a four, with the expectation that the third book would bring it back up. I started reading this trilogy for Lent. Ate up the first two books. Finally finished this book a few days ago, well after Easter had come and gone. I just didn't want to pick it up. Never a good sign for me and a book.
February 11, 2022
“Loyalty can neither be earned nor broken by threats.”
What an incredible finale to the trilogy! Well done! It’s brimming with surprises and raw emotions that challenge each main character’s faith, loyalty, and love. It is definitely a trilogy that should be read in order since each book builds upon what happened previously. Oh, the heartaches, trials, and fears that Conor, Aine, and Eoghan faced made me cry alongside them while their hopes, dreams, and steadfast devotion to their God and to His plan bolstered my faith in them as the leaders of this island they’re seeking to liberate and protect. Conor and Eoghan are such different leaders yet almost perfect together since they balance each other out. Aine’s strength and power are incredible as she assists both the men in their quest.
Anyone who enjoys fantasy would absolutely love this book and the series. I received the book from Enclave Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
What an incredible finale to the trilogy! Well done! It’s brimming with surprises and raw emotions that challenge each main character’s faith, loyalty, and love. It is definitely a trilogy that should be read in order since each book builds upon what happened previously. Oh, the heartaches, trials, and fears that Conor, Aine, and Eoghan faced made me cry alongside them while their hopes, dreams, and steadfast devotion to their God and to His plan bolstered my faith in them as the leaders of this island they’re seeking to liberate and protect. Conor and Eoghan are such different leaders yet almost perfect together since they balance each other out. Aine’s strength and power are incredible as she assists both the men in their quest.
Anyone who enjoys fantasy would absolutely love this book and the series. I received the book from Enclave Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Want to read
November 23, 2015Rating: 5 stars.
The Sword and the Song by C.E. Laureano is the third and final book in The Song of Seare trilogy. And it's the best and most action-packed in the series. This series is very popular among Christian readers and that's not a suprise.The Song of Seare series gives you everything you want in a Fantasy series except no graphic violence, foul language, and graphic sex.
The Sword and the Song by C.E. Laureano is the third and final book in The Song of Seare trilogy. And it's the best and most action-packed in the series. This series is very popular among Christian readers and that's not a suprise.The Song of Seare series gives you everything you want in a Fantasy series except no graphic violence, foul language, and graphic sex.
October 29, 2015
Pregnant women - beware! (but still a good book)
Heads up to any pregnant ladies who may read this book - just be prepared to let your hormone imbalance get the best of you. Had I not been pregnant, I probably would have shed a tear or two at some point ... instead, I completely had a meltdown. Body wracking sobs, an ocean of tears, and the tears continued to threatened their return some hours after I was finished with this book. The fact that the book highlighted some of my personal worst fears I'm sure didn't help in my current state. Laureano told the story the well (otherwise, why would I cry?) but I thought other ladies sharing my condition may appreciate the warning.
That said, I loved Book 1 in this trilogy. I read it the summer it came out and actively tried to stay abreast for information about book 2. Somehow I *entirely* and completely missed it's release in January! When I had the opportunity to review this book, I jumped at the chance. No where was there indication that this was book 3! As a result, as I read I was very, very confused many times.
It didn't matter that I read the first book over a year ago, I can usually pick up where I left off and details, if forgotten, will return as I read. This time there were so many blank spaces. I couldn't imagine not remembering so much. I actually started thinking Laureano just had a large time gap between the books and filled readers in with what happened in this peculiar fashion. Except, it seemed that the reader was expected to remember. The thought that I missed book 2 never crossed my mind! So please - please! do yourself a favor and read the first TWO books before reading this one.
The fact that the book still receives 4 stars in spite of the lack of knowledge I had going in says something for the quality of the work. It is likely that, once I read book 2, it will earn all 5 stars.
Truly, Laureano has crafted a believable world with characters in whom you vest yourself without intention. This book also deals with some heavy material no present in other books labeled YA. Don't let the label put you off! This is truly an excellent series (I am making assumptions about book 2 based off books 1 & 3) to be enjoyed by young adults and adults alike! The depth, credibility, and craftsmanship of the story far exceed any other YA novel I have read to date.
The series does nicely wrap up with this work (which doesn't mean 100% happy, there is certainly an element of deep loss, hence all my tears, but real life isn't always 100% happy), but I can also see it providing a springboard for future series, if she chooses.
Summary/Takeaways:
-- make sure you read the previous 2 books of the trilogy
-- if you are of a hormonal disposition or in a hormonal season, you will likely shed massive tears
-- even with the gap of book 2, this is one of the best YA books I've read. I simply refuse to give it 5 stars until I see how exactly the books transition one to the other, and if there are loose ends or particulars I think not finished in the best fashion.
If book 2 is on the same level as Books 1 & 3, this could easily be a trilogy that needs to be included in home libraries everywhere, and a series to whole-heartedly recommend to youth looking for good examples, valor, honor, and making extremely difficult right choices.
I received a complimentary ecopy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Heads up to any pregnant ladies who may read this book - just be prepared to let your hormone imbalance get the best of you. Had I not been pregnant, I probably would have shed a tear or two at some point ... instead, I completely had a meltdown. Body wracking sobs, an ocean of tears, and the tears continued to threatened their return some hours after I was finished with this book. The fact that the book highlighted some of my personal worst fears I'm sure didn't help in my current state. Laureano told the story the well (otherwise, why would I cry?) but I thought other ladies sharing my condition may appreciate the warning.
That said, I loved Book 1 in this trilogy. I read it the summer it came out and actively tried to stay abreast for information about book 2. Somehow I *entirely* and completely missed it's release in January! When I had the opportunity to review this book, I jumped at the chance. No where was there indication that this was book 3! As a result, as I read I was very, very confused many times.
It didn't matter that I read the first book over a year ago, I can usually pick up where I left off and details, if forgotten, will return as I read. This time there were so many blank spaces. I couldn't imagine not remembering so much. I actually started thinking Laureano just had a large time gap between the books and filled readers in with what happened in this peculiar fashion. Except, it seemed that the reader was expected to remember. The thought that I missed book 2 never crossed my mind! So please - please! do yourself a favor and read the first TWO books before reading this one.
The fact that the book still receives 4 stars in spite of the lack of knowledge I had going in says something for the quality of the work. It is likely that, once I read book 2, it will earn all 5 stars.
Truly, Laureano has crafted a believable world with characters in whom you vest yourself without intention. This book also deals with some heavy material no present in other books labeled YA. Don't let the label put you off! This is truly an excellent series (I am making assumptions about book 2 based off books 1 & 3) to be enjoyed by young adults and adults alike! The depth, credibility, and craftsmanship of the story far exceed any other YA novel I have read to date.
The series does nicely wrap up with this work (which doesn't mean 100% happy, there is certainly an element of deep loss, hence all my tears, but real life isn't always 100% happy), but I can also see it providing a springboard for future series, if she chooses.
Summary/Takeaways:
-- make sure you read the previous 2 books of the trilogy
-- if you are of a hormonal disposition or in a hormonal season, you will likely shed massive tears
-- even with the gap of book 2, this is one of the best YA books I've read. I simply refuse to give it 5 stars until I see how exactly the books transition one to the other, and if there are loose ends or particulars I think not finished in the best fashion.
If book 2 is on the same level as Books 1 & 3, this could easily be a trilogy that needs to be included in home libraries everywhere, and a series to whole-heartedly recommend to youth looking for good examples, valor, honor, and making extremely difficult right choices.
I received a complimentary ecopy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 21, 2015
The Sword and the Song
The Song of Seare 3
By C.E. Laureano
They may have won a reprieve in the war against the Red Druid but the war is just getting started. If they can't find a key, a weapon, to use against the Red Druid Seare is just the start of the end. The evil refuses to be stopped.
The Brotherhood is no more and Ard Dhaimhin has become a place of refuge to those fleeing the war. The city can't long survive its unexpected growth after the losses it suffered in the last battle. But hope has not been lost.
Eoghan won't claim the throne as High King, much to Conor's dismay who is ruling the city and the people in his stead. Comdiu has yet to lead Eoghan to this path and he refuses to take the initiative on his own. This situation is creating a rift between these two friends who are like brothers. Can their bond survive the coming attacks?
In the midst of this despair there is joy, Aine and Conor are expecting their first child. But this results in a new danger to Aine keeping her confined within the city's safety. But safety within the city is soon to be called into question when an attack in launched from within. But who is working against them from within? Can they find out before it too late?
War is coming and time is against them as they race to keep Niall from the prize he seeks. But to win the war a price must be paid...
This is the third book in the Song of Seare trilogy and it is an emotionally charged conclusion that will keep you reading, wondering what will come next. To truly understand and appreciate this book you need to read the first two books in the series. This series is Aine and Conor's story - a story that has its moments of heartbreak and joy. This is a beautiful and moving conclusion that you don't want to miss.
C.E. Laureno has created a world that one would like to revisit again. Fans of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Patrick Carr, and Chris Walley will delight in this series and the timeless battle of good vs. evil.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through their blogger program in exchange for my honest review.
The Song of Seare 3
By C.E. Laureano
They may have won a reprieve in the war against the Red Druid but the war is just getting started. If they can't find a key, a weapon, to use against the Red Druid Seare is just the start of the end. The evil refuses to be stopped.
The Brotherhood is no more and Ard Dhaimhin has become a place of refuge to those fleeing the war. The city can't long survive its unexpected growth after the losses it suffered in the last battle. But hope has not been lost.
Eoghan won't claim the throne as High King, much to Conor's dismay who is ruling the city and the people in his stead. Comdiu has yet to lead Eoghan to this path and he refuses to take the initiative on his own. This situation is creating a rift between these two friends who are like brothers. Can their bond survive the coming attacks?
In the midst of this despair there is joy, Aine and Conor are expecting their first child. But this results in a new danger to Aine keeping her confined within the city's safety. But safety within the city is soon to be called into question when an attack in launched from within. But who is working against them from within? Can they find out before it too late?
War is coming and time is against them as they race to keep Niall from the prize he seeks. But to win the war a price must be paid...
This is the third book in the Song of Seare trilogy and it is an emotionally charged conclusion that will keep you reading, wondering what will come next. To truly understand and appreciate this book you need to read the first two books in the series. This series is Aine and Conor's story - a story that has its moments of heartbreak and joy. This is a beautiful and moving conclusion that you don't want to miss.
C.E. Laureno has created a world that one would like to revisit again. Fans of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Patrick Carr, and Chris Walley will delight in this series and the timeless battle of good vs. evil.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through their blogger program in exchange for my honest review.
September 13, 2015
WOW. That's the word floating through my mind as I wrapped up this series by my friend CE Laureano. The way she creates a whole new world has amazed me in every book of this series. Plus, every time I think I've figured out what's going to happen she twists the story in a new direction--right up until the last moments of the book. I don't want to give away spoilers, but be prepared for the unexpected! As always, her descriptions are spot on, pulling you out of your life and into the story. I received a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 3, 2016
The Song of Seare trilogy follows a young man named Conor Mac Nir and his journey to overcome the evil threatening his world, and, on a more personal level, Conor's journey as a man.
In the first book in the trilogy, The Oath of the Brotherhood, we meet Conor Mac Nir, a puny, scholarly boy who has powerful gifts as a musician. Conor does not really seem to fit in anywhere. When Conor's foster father dies, Conor fakes his own death to cover his trail and joins the Firein, a group of monk-like "brothers" - the difference being that the otherwise monastic brotherhood are trained in the fighting arts as well as spiritual disciplines. But Conor soon grows restless and wants to leave the brotherhood to do something about the darkness that has begun to threaten the outside world. Finally, Conor leaves Ard Dhaimin, to join Calhoun Mac Cuilinn's army. Calhoun is the older half-brother of Aine, a beautiful young girl Conor felt an immediate connection to, and fell in love with in the short time he stayed with her family before joining the brotherhood. Aine, in Conor's absence, has developed her own unique gifts and has gained renown for her incredible healing abilities. When Aine is kidnapped, Conor risks everything to save her and the two are reunited and married aboard a ship that they hope will carry them to a new life.
This first book really sets the stage nicely for the other two books to come. It's a little slow in the beginning but interest really soars when Conor joins the brotherhood and really becomes a hero worth cheering for. I have to say, when a character is described as puny, it kind of gives you a mental picture of that character that is irreversible, even if the we are told that the character really beefs up later on in the story (which, of course, they always do, because where's the attraction in a guy who does not have bulging biceps and a perfect six pack?). Fortunately for Laureano, this is not the case with Conor; his progression from wimpy boy to muscular man is slow enough and convincing enough that your not permanently stuck thinking of Conor as that toothpick-limbed guy we envision when we were first introduced to him.
In the second book in The Song of Seare Trilogy, Beneath the Forsaken City, Conor and Aine have been separated in a storm at sea and now must pursue separate journeys. Conor is made a slave but is set free and escapes with one of his fellow captives, Prince Talfryn, there under cover to save Conor. As his honored guest, Conor remains with Talfryn while he awaits news of Aine. But while there he comes up against unforeseen obstacles - things are not what they seem within the kingdom. Briallu, the only daughter of his friend, holds a strange attraction for Conor that he struggles to resist. Aine makes her way to her native land, where her aunt is currently in power and magic of all kinds - such as Aine now wields with more power than ever - is held in extreme suspicion. While some welcome Aine back, or grow to love her, her aunt's veiled dislike of her serves to make her even more lonely and distraught. Aine struggles desperately against doubt and confusion, and is bewildered when attempts on her life become disturbingly frequent and there seem to be veiled threats on every side. Aine no longer knows who she can trust. Both of their paths eventually lead them both back to Seare, however, and Aine and Conor are finally reunited once more.
Beneath the Forsaken City builds well on the first book. Separating Conor and Aine the way she does is a masterful move on Laureano's part - it allows readers a chance to get to know them as individuals, apart from one another, something we got to do in Oath of the Brotherhood with Conor, obviously, but not as much with Aine, and since her role is only increasing, it's important that we really get behind Aine. This is the closest thing to a flaw that I foresee for this trilogy. That we won't ever get to know Aine enough to ever like her. Honestly, when we first met her back in Oath of the Brotherhood, she never appealed to me. I like her better in this book, but the connection between her and the reader is not as strong as it should be - something Laureano will have to remedy quickly if she wishes to redeem Aine.
That is the trouble with reserved, sweet characters. While the writer may just think of them as quiet or shy, or just kindhearted and compassionate, they come across to the reader as boring and dull, lacking life and personality. Such characters give us very little reason to get behind them, to laugh when they laugh and cry when they cry, because we don't really know what would make them laugh or cry. They have remained so aloof and distant, hiding behind that facade of reserve or kindness, that We The Reader don't really know them at all.
In the last book in the Song of Seare Trilogy, The Sword and the Song, Aine and Conor are reunited in Ard Dhaimin and the future is looking bright for them. The couple is expecting their first child, they are happy, and Ard Dhaimin has become a refuge for many fleeing the darkness and danger that has become rampant in Seare. But it soons becomes apparent that everything is not as perfect as it seems. Eoghan, Conor's closest friend, is the fulfillment of the prophecy, and as such, he should be taking leadership of the Firein. But Eoghan is hesitant to step up, which causes friction between Conor and him. Eoghan reached out to Conor when he first arrived friendless in Ard Dhaimin, Eoghan mentored and trained Conor until he became a better swordsman than Eoghan himself, Eoghan risked severe punishment to leave Ard Dhaimin and help Conor, saving his life, and Eoghan saved Aine's life when she returned to Seare after struggling with doubt and defeat in her homeland. So the bond between the two men is still strong... but it's strength is being tested. Especially as it becomes more and more obvious to everyone, Conor, Aine, and Eoghan himself, that Eoghan is falling for Aine - the pregnant wife of his best friend. Conor has thought of a way to protect Seare and fight back against the Red Druid, Diarmuid - but it requires leaving Ard Dhaimin. He gets back in plenty of time to witness the birth of his child - but almost as soon as he returns, he has to leave again. On an even longer journey this time. Conor's mission is almost complete when Diarmuid attacks Ard Dhaimin. His goal is to kidnap Aine's soon-to-be born, specially gifted child. Because of Aine's growing powers, she is able to communicate mentally with Conor - but he is experiencing difficulty as well: he has been badly wounded, and help cannot reach him. In an unexpected twist, Conor's foster sister who has been living in Ard Dhaimin, once a confederate of Diarmuid, turns on him suddenly, killing him. But it is too late for Conor. With his last words, he names the son he wanted to desperately to witness the birth of, the son he so desperately wanted to be a good father to, the son he will now never meet... his son is born only minutes later.
Wow. I did not even see this ending coming. It is superb. I was so close to tears. I've read a lot of books, a lot of endings, a lot of good endings, even. But I don't know that I've ever read an ending quite like this one. It is unique and so oddly moving. I think because it really is very surprising. Conor is so very afraid that if he dies, Aine and Eoghan will be together and forget him, that you never think that that will actually happen! You just assume that because they want it so much, because Conor and Aine deserve it so much after all they have been through, all the separation and pain and doubting each other and not knowing if the other is even alive, and feeling unworthy of the other's love, you just naturally assume that they will get that happy ending... You want them to have that happy ending. You want Conor so see his son. You want them to be able to be a family. And so it is really depressing when Conor dies when he is so close to achieving this dream.
This last book really highlights Conor's strength as a character. He has become the hero. And that is something I find rather fascinating: Conor didn't start out the hero that you were hoping for - he becomes that hero. You really begin to see his depth in this last book, his brokenness and disappointment with himself, his frustration and anger as he starts to really snap and kind of lose his grip on sanity. I don't believe there's any such thing as a completely sane hero anyway:)
Aine, though, actually regressed, in my opinion. She effectively loses all the ground she gained in the second book.
Overall, this last book was not only by far the best but was a great way to end the series; Laureano got better with each succeeding book.
For more reviews like this one, check out my blog at http://storyanddarkchocolate.blogspot...
In the first book in the trilogy, The Oath of the Brotherhood, we meet Conor Mac Nir, a puny, scholarly boy who has powerful gifts as a musician. Conor does not really seem to fit in anywhere. When Conor's foster father dies, Conor fakes his own death to cover his trail and joins the Firein, a group of monk-like "brothers" - the difference being that the otherwise monastic brotherhood are trained in the fighting arts as well as spiritual disciplines. But Conor soon grows restless and wants to leave the brotherhood to do something about the darkness that has begun to threaten the outside world. Finally, Conor leaves Ard Dhaimin, to join Calhoun Mac Cuilinn's army. Calhoun is the older half-brother of Aine, a beautiful young girl Conor felt an immediate connection to, and fell in love with in the short time he stayed with her family before joining the brotherhood. Aine, in Conor's absence, has developed her own unique gifts and has gained renown for her incredible healing abilities. When Aine is kidnapped, Conor risks everything to save her and the two are reunited and married aboard a ship that they hope will carry them to a new life.
This first book really sets the stage nicely for the other two books to come. It's a little slow in the beginning but interest really soars when Conor joins the brotherhood and really becomes a hero worth cheering for. I have to say, when a character is described as puny, it kind of gives you a mental picture of that character that is irreversible, even if the we are told that the character really beefs up later on in the story (which, of course, they always do, because where's the attraction in a guy who does not have bulging biceps and a perfect six pack?). Fortunately for Laureano, this is not the case with Conor; his progression from wimpy boy to muscular man is slow enough and convincing enough that your not permanently stuck thinking of Conor as that toothpick-limbed guy we envision when we were first introduced to him.
In the second book in The Song of Seare Trilogy, Beneath the Forsaken City, Conor and Aine have been separated in a storm at sea and now must pursue separate journeys. Conor is made a slave but is set free and escapes with one of his fellow captives, Prince Talfryn, there under cover to save Conor. As his honored guest, Conor remains with Talfryn while he awaits news of Aine. But while there he comes up against unforeseen obstacles - things are not what they seem within the kingdom. Briallu, the only daughter of his friend, holds a strange attraction for Conor that he struggles to resist. Aine makes her way to her native land, where her aunt is currently in power and magic of all kinds - such as Aine now wields with more power than ever - is held in extreme suspicion. While some welcome Aine back, or grow to love her, her aunt's veiled dislike of her serves to make her even more lonely and distraught. Aine struggles desperately against doubt and confusion, and is bewildered when attempts on her life become disturbingly frequent and there seem to be veiled threats on every side. Aine no longer knows who she can trust. Both of their paths eventually lead them both back to Seare, however, and Aine and Conor are finally reunited once more.
Beneath the Forsaken City builds well on the first book. Separating Conor and Aine the way she does is a masterful move on Laureano's part - it allows readers a chance to get to know them as individuals, apart from one another, something we got to do in Oath of the Brotherhood with Conor, obviously, but not as much with Aine, and since her role is only increasing, it's important that we really get behind Aine. This is the closest thing to a flaw that I foresee for this trilogy. That we won't ever get to know Aine enough to ever like her. Honestly, when we first met her back in Oath of the Brotherhood, she never appealed to me. I like her better in this book, but the connection between her and the reader is not as strong as it should be - something Laureano will have to remedy quickly if she wishes to redeem Aine.
That is the trouble with reserved, sweet characters. While the writer may just think of them as quiet or shy, or just kindhearted and compassionate, they come across to the reader as boring and dull, lacking life and personality. Such characters give us very little reason to get behind them, to laugh when they laugh and cry when they cry, because we don't really know what would make them laugh or cry. They have remained so aloof and distant, hiding behind that facade of reserve or kindness, that We The Reader don't really know them at all.
In the last book in the Song of Seare Trilogy, The Sword and the Song, Aine and Conor are reunited in Ard Dhaimin and the future is looking bright for them. The couple is expecting their first child, they are happy, and Ard Dhaimin has become a refuge for many fleeing the darkness and danger that has become rampant in Seare. But it soons becomes apparent that everything is not as perfect as it seems. Eoghan, Conor's closest friend, is the fulfillment of the prophecy, and as such, he should be taking leadership of the Firein. But Eoghan is hesitant to step up, which causes friction between Conor and him. Eoghan reached out to Conor when he first arrived friendless in Ard Dhaimin, Eoghan mentored and trained Conor until he became a better swordsman than Eoghan himself, Eoghan risked severe punishment to leave Ard Dhaimin and help Conor, saving his life, and Eoghan saved Aine's life when she returned to Seare after struggling with doubt and defeat in her homeland. So the bond between the two men is still strong... but it's strength is being tested. Especially as it becomes more and more obvious to everyone, Conor, Aine, and Eoghan himself, that Eoghan is falling for Aine - the pregnant wife of his best friend. Conor has thought of a way to protect Seare and fight back against the Red Druid, Diarmuid - but it requires leaving Ard Dhaimin. He gets back in plenty of time to witness the birth of his child - but almost as soon as he returns, he has to leave again. On an even longer journey this time. Conor's mission is almost complete when Diarmuid attacks Ard Dhaimin. His goal is to kidnap Aine's soon-to-be born, specially gifted child. Because of Aine's growing powers, she is able to communicate mentally with Conor - but he is experiencing difficulty as well: he has been badly wounded, and help cannot reach him. In an unexpected twist, Conor's foster sister who has been living in Ard Dhaimin, once a confederate of Diarmuid, turns on him suddenly, killing him. But it is too late for Conor. With his last words, he names the son he wanted to desperately to witness the birth of, the son he so desperately wanted to be a good father to, the son he will now never meet... his son is born only minutes later.
Wow. I did not even see this ending coming. It is superb. I was so close to tears. I've read a lot of books, a lot of endings, a lot of good endings, even. But I don't know that I've ever read an ending quite like this one. It is unique and so oddly moving. I think because it really is very surprising. Conor is so very afraid that if he dies, Aine and Eoghan will be together and forget him, that you never think that that will actually happen! You just assume that because they want it so much, because Conor and Aine deserve it so much after all they have been through, all the separation and pain and doubting each other and not knowing if the other is even alive, and feeling unworthy of the other's love, you just naturally assume that they will get that happy ending... You want them to have that happy ending. You want Conor so see his son. You want them to be able to be a family. And so it is really depressing when Conor dies when he is so close to achieving this dream.
This last book really highlights Conor's strength as a character. He has become the hero. And that is something I find rather fascinating: Conor didn't start out the hero that you were hoping for - he becomes that hero. You really begin to see his depth in this last book, his brokenness and disappointment with himself, his frustration and anger as he starts to really snap and kind of lose his grip on sanity. I don't believe there's any such thing as a completely sane hero anyway:)
Aine, though, actually regressed, in my opinion. She effectively loses all the ground she gained in the second book.
Overall, this last book was not only by far the best but was a great way to end the series; Laureano got better with each succeeding book.
For more reviews like this one, check out my blog at http://storyanddarkchocolate.blogspot...
August 17, 2022
I finallly finished this series. 5 years and more after I requested the ARC from Netgalley. It was the Navpress Edition. I read the first book nearly as long ago.
I loved the conclusion of Conor and Aine's story, but I would say this isn't a series you could dive into at any point. You have to start at the beginning or so much of what is going on will not make sense. Personally, I don't care for authors introducing new elements or details to the story in the 3rd book which weren't there before and I did get the impression that was happening here to a certain extent.
I did still enjoy the story and the characters though (Eoghan more than before), and the supernatural/allegorical elements became more intriguing and exciting as the story went on.
The only thing which I think became weaker was the worldbuilding. At first this felt a lot like some ancient Celtic country: now... it just doesn't. It felt lacklustre and some of the details were just jarring (characters saying OK all the time, having "offices", etc.) Maybe it was just that some of the momentum was lost from the first story. I don't know. I might just re-read the trilogy from the beginning to refresh my memory.
The ending was beautiful: unexpected and beautiful and that redeemed some of the issues I had with other parts of the book really. Recommended for lovers of Historical Fantasry or allegorical fantasy.
I loved the conclusion of Conor and Aine's story, but I would say this isn't a series you could dive into at any point. You have to start at the beginning or so much of what is going on will not make sense. Personally, I don't care for authors introducing new elements or details to the story in the 3rd book which weren't there before and I did get the impression that was happening here to a certain extent.
I did still enjoy the story and the characters though (Eoghan more than before), and the supernatural/allegorical elements became more intriguing and exciting as the story went on.
The only thing which I think became weaker was the worldbuilding. At first this felt a lot like some ancient Celtic country: now... it just doesn't. It felt lacklustre and some of the details were just jarring (characters saying OK all the time, having "offices", etc.) Maybe it was just that some of the momentum was lost from the first story. I don't know. I might just re-read the trilogy from the beginning to refresh my memory.
The ending was beautiful: unexpected and beautiful and that redeemed some of the issues I had with other parts of the book really. Recommended for lovers of Historical Fantasry or allegorical fantasy.
February 1, 2022
I found The Sword and the Song to be a book that pulled you in page by page emotionally and spiritually. I had a clear image of the landscape and what the characters may have looked like in my mind. I felt the struggles, surprises, and perseverance and lived the journey with each character. Each chapter revealed another layer to the seemingly endless quest. The Gospel thread was interwoven in an intricate, defining way. I found the language to be fantastical without making you feel like you were struggling to follow along. I feel like older teenagers and adults alike who enjoy a good adventure, redemption story, or historical/fantastical settings will enjoy this read. This is not my normal genre of choice but this was a perfectly woven story of adventure, truth, heartache, and redemption.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
February 9, 2016
If this had been a middle book in the series I might have been able to overlook my disappointment, but as the conclusion of a trilogy I have to say that I actually wish I hadn’t read it and had instead supplied my own conclusion. And it wasn’t the sad components that made me so let down by this novel. It was the characters themselves.
Generally in a series I expect to see hope dip and even die in the middle novel(s), but never in the conclusion. In The Sword and The Song, this third installment left us more and more aware of growing rifts between the characters and a general movement toward self-protection, isolation and unhealthy relationships. Good characters stop relying on the God who has equipped and enabled them with gifts and instead try to find their way forward by withdrawing from their gifts rather than calling upon the giver to sustain and shield them within their task.
And the most confusing to me was that the “good guys” start modeling the strategies of the evil characters. From the beginning of the series it’s been clear that the druid is out to destroy all the gifts and those who possess them, but we see how God continues to use the gifts in spite of their ability to be manipulated by evil. Then those with the gifts in flesh start trying to destroy another set of gifts, which are also from God, because they are being dangerously manipulated by evil. It’s as if they are willing to trust God with one set of gifts, but don’t trust that He can work victory within this other set of gifts, while they themselves use these gifts with little discrimination. I found the idea that the heroes would mimic a strategy of destruction distressing. And the ending…how do I tell you about it without spoilers?
It actually reminded me of Isaiah 26:17 where Israel moans that they had tried to birth a live baby and had just passed gas (brought forth wind); that their actions and efforts hadn’t accomplished the salvation that they had hoped for.
All that said, the writing style was as good as the first two books. It has a strong wow factor and is a creative, layered and stylistically well written book. And as much as I hated the dissonance that ran throughout this novel it was hard to put down, until the end when I seriously thought about pitching it across the room. What I really needed to redeem the story was some sort of a moving away from self-protection toward true fellowship restored (especially between Conner and Eoghan) and at least a strong hint of the kingdom come, particularly in a series that has been as heavily laced with hope and expectation as this one.
So that’s my two cents. You might love it. I didn’t.
See my profile for my star rating system.
Generally in a series I expect to see hope dip and even die in the middle novel(s), but never in the conclusion. In The Sword and The Song, this third installment left us more and more aware of growing rifts between the characters and a general movement toward self-protection, isolation and unhealthy relationships. Good characters stop relying on the God who has equipped and enabled them with gifts and instead try to find their way forward by withdrawing from their gifts rather than calling upon the giver to sustain and shield them within their task.
And the most confusing to me was that the “good guys” start modeling the strategies of the evil characters. From the beginning of the series it’s been clear that the druid is out to destroy all the gifts and those who possess them, but we see how God continues to use the gifts in spite of their ability to be manipulated by evil. Then those with the gifts in flesh start trying to destroy another set of gifts, which are also from God, because they are being dangerously manipulated by evil. It’s as if they are willing to trust God with one set of gifts, but don’t trust that He can work victory within this other set of gifts, while they themselves use these gifts with little discrimination. I found the idea that the heroes would mimic a strategy of destruction distressing. And the ending…how do I tell you about it without spoilers?
It actually reminded me of Isaiah 26:17 where Israel moans that they had tried to birth a live baby and had just passed gas (brought forth wind); that their actions and efforts hadn’t accomplished the salvation that they had hoped for.
All that said, the writing style was as good as the first two books. It has a strong wow factor and is a creative, layered and stylistically well written book. And as much as I hated the dissonance that ran throughout this novel it was hard to put down, until the end when I seriously thought about pitching it across the room. What I really needed to redeem the story was some sort of a moving away from self-protection toward true fellowship restored (especially between Conner and Eoghan) and at least a strong hint of the kingdom come, particularly in a series that has been as heavily laced with hope and expectation as this one.
So that’s my two cents. You might love it. I didn’t.
See my profile for my star rating system.
January 29, 2023
A suprising and thoughtful end to a wonderful trilogy
Carla Laureano's imagination and adept story telling make this series a delight. The fictional kingdoms and characters are true to life and compelling.
For Christians readers there is much in this series to appreciate. The religious faith of the imaginary realm obviously mirrors Christianity without being preachy or overbearing. The contrasting evil to be oppossed is an interesting mix of real-life manifestations of evil, with an ample bit of "good magic" (gifts) thrown in.
Carla Laureano's imagination and adept story telling make this series a delight. The fictional kingdoms and characters are true to life and compelling.
For Christians readers there is much in this series to appreciate. The religious faith of the imaginary realm obviously mirrors Christianity without being preachy or overbearing. The contrasting evil to be oppossed is an interesting mix of real-life manifestations of evil, with an ample bit of "good magic" (gifts) thrown in.
May 14, 2023
(SPOILERS!!!)
This book absolutely destroyed me. I have never cried so hard, nor for so long as I have with this book.
*sigh* I'm still not over it.
In fact, one of the reasons I'm giving this one 4 stars instead of 5, is because of this.
Why did he have to die? I mean, I know why, but WHY??? Comdiu's brought people back to life before, so why not Conor? I was almost expecting it, and I cannot express with words the moment of devastation when I realized he wasn't coming back. I literally cried for hours. I could barely even see enough to read through my sobbing. I wish I was exaggerating. I also wish I could just put it off as bad writing to pull at the readers heartstrings, but it was just done SO well! It was definitely bittersweet, if not more bitter than sweet. Not only did he miss the birth of his child, but he would never meet him. Eoghan said he would come back, but he didn't. They had no idea that was the last time they saw him. His last words were "I'll be fine, go." I'm only glad he was able to communicate with Aine in his final moments.
Another reason I'm not giving this book 5 stars, was Eoghan. What did him being in love with Aine have anything to do with the plot? It just came out of no where and felt wrong. More than anything, it sort of made him an annoying, dislikeable character. Even if it was simply for the fact that they could get together after Conor's death, they had 13 YEARS to properly mourn and except each other. It wasn't as if it was helping anything to see her as anything other than he should have. She could have just as easily been like a sister to him. If that was the case, then I could have excepted them being together as Conor would want her to be happy, maybe even making Eoghan promise to take care of her, kind of thing. But we KNOW Conor thoughts on the mater, and they were less than excepting. Idk, I just feel like it was kind of like a one-sided, love triangle that was only there for the dramatics. I really liked Eoghan up until this point. Then I just felt disappointed.
Apart from those reasons, I did enjoy the series as a whole, and it will always have a special place in my heart. CONOR will always have a special place in my heart ❤
This book absolutely destroyed me. I have never cried so hard, nor for so long as I have with this book.
*sigh* I'm still not over it.
In fact, one of the reasons I'm giving this one 4 stars instead of 5, is because of this.
Why did he have to die? I mean, I know why, but WHY??? Comdiu's brought people back to life before, so why not Conor? I was almost expecting it, and I cannot express with words the moment of devastation when I realized he wasn't coming back. I literally cried for hours. I could barely even see enough to read through my sobbing. I wish I was exaggerating. I also wish I could just put it off as bad writing to pull at the readers heartstrings, but it was just done SO well! It was definitely bittersweet, if not more bitter than sweet. Not only did he miss the birth of his child, but he would never meet him. Eoghan said he would come back, but he didn't. They had no idea that was the last time they saw him. His last words were "I'll be fine, go." I'm only glad he was able to communicate with Aine in his final moments.
Another reason I'm not giving this book 5 stars, was Eoghan. What did him being in love with Aine have anything to do with the plot? It just came out of no where and felt wrong. More than anything, it sort of made him an annoying, dislikeable character. Even if it was simply for the fact that they could get together after Conor's death, they had 13 YEARS to properly mourn and except each other. It wasn't as if it was helping anything to see her as anything other than he should have. She could have just as easily been like a sister to him. If that was the case, then I could have excepted them being together as Conor would want her to be happy, maybe even making Eoghan promise to take care of her, kind of thing. But we KNOW Conor thoughts on the mater, and they were less than excepting. Idk, I just feel like it was kind of like a one-sided, love triangle that was only there for the dramatics. I really liked Eoghan up until this point. Then I just felt disappointed.
Apart from those reasons, I did enjoy the series as a whole, and it will always have a special place in my heart. CONOR will always have a special place in my heart ❤
February 1, 2022
Award-winning author Carla Laureano’s final novel in her medieval Celtic-inspired epic fantasy series is filled with adventure, romance, magic, faith, and superstition.
In The Sword and the Song, Conor and Aine are reunited for a short time. Meanwhile Eoghan and Conor grapple with their leadership responsibilities in light of the war. Each wants to follow Comdiu’s leading, but their paths are different. What will be asked of them to defeat the Red Druid? To save their people and win the final battle? And at what cost?
Weaving elements from Celtic history and culture, Laureano has rewritten her 2015 series with some additional material, making her epic fantasy even more engaging. She builds a believable world with strong characters and a clear battle between good and evil. Despite overwhelming odds, good triumphs, but at the cost of personal sacrifice. Her characters face betrayal, faithfulness, death, and love as they continue on their journey. The books should be read in order, as they build on one another.
The third book is filled with more emotion, more journeys of faith, more action, more testing of their devotion to one another. From the first page, readers encounter plot twists, relatable characters, and a story that will keep them eagerly reading until the book’s conclusion.
Recommended for Laureano’s fans, as well as fans of epic fantasy.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
In The Sword and the Song, Conor and Aine are reunited for a short time. Meanwhile Eoghan and Conor grapple with their leadership responsibilities in light of the war. Each wants to follow Comdiu’s leading, but their paths are different. What will be asked of them to defeat the Red Druid? To save their people and win the final battle? And at what cost?
Weaving elements from Celtic history and culture, Laureano has rewritten her 2015 series with some additional material, making her epic fantasy even more engaging. She builds a believable world with strong characters and a clear battle between good and evil. Despite overwhelming odds, good triumphs, but at the cost of personal sacrifice. Her characters face betrayal, faithfulness, death, and love as they continue on their journey. The books should be read in order, as they build on one another.
The third book is filled with more emotion, more journeys of faith, more action, more testing of their devotion to one another. From the first page, readers encounter plot twists, relatable characters, and a story that will keep them eagerly reading until the book’s conclusion.
Recommended for Laureano’s fans, as well as fans of epic fantasy.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
February 1, 2022
If you are looking for a fantasy story this is the one for you. The author captures every detail with precision. With deception, action and enemies surrounding our main characters it is easy to get so involved in the story that you block out the world. I like this time period and find it very intriguing.
The decision to stay where they are lays heavy on Conor as the men describe how long the food supply will last. If they leave will they fall into a trap? It is a big responsibility and it had me on pins and needles. As Conor faces trying to save the people he feels alone. How many of you have ever felt alone during a crisis? Conor is reminded that he is not alone and maybe that will give him comfort. It seems like Conor has taken on a big burden but will he allow himself to listen to wisdom? In the midst of the danger around Conor, he is gifted with exciting news. Now he must fight for survival and keep those he cares about safe.
The author delivers a story that shows characters in conflict considering who to trust. The mission may seem simple but behind the scenes are enemies wanting to see everything collapse and fall apart. I began to anticipate that danger was soon closing in and I had to trust that they were being protected against the enemy. The ending is epic and gives readers a nice send off for the characters. I am not wanting to say goodbye to this series just yet, but for now I will savor the last book in this epic adventure.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion,
The decision to stay where they are lays heavy on Conor as the men describe how long the food supply will last. If they leave will they fall into a trap? It is a big responsibility and it had me on pins and needles. As Conor faces trying to save the people he feels alone. How many of you have ever felt alone during a crisis? Conor is reminded that he is not alone and maybe that will give him comfort. It seems like Conor has taken on a big burden but will he allow himself to listen to wisdom? In the midst of the danger around Conor, he is gifted with exciting news. Now he must fight for survival and keep those he cares about safe.
The author delivers a story that shows characters in conflict considering who to trust. The mission may seem simple but behind the scenes are enemies wanting to see everything collapse and fall apart. I began to anticipate that danger was soon closing in and I had to trust that they were being protected against the enemy. The ending is epic and gives readers a nice send off for the characters. I am not wanting to say goodbye to this series just yet, but for now I will savor the last book in this epic adventure.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion,
February 16, 2022
This is a unique series. The Sword and the Song is the third book. You do need to read these in order to get the full story. If you try to just grab this one you’re going to be a bit lost since you don’t have the backstory.
In The Sword and the Song, you get the final installation of the story. But it’s more than that. It’s rough and it’s real and it’s going to pull you into the story and the chaos that is ensuing so that you are part of it and you’re invested.
This is one of those books that you see as a movie in your mind but you’d hate to see as a movie in real life because you’re going to hate it as it doesn’t follow what you have in your mind! Honestly, though I think I’d still love it because I loved the book that much. The whole series is amazing.
It’s also a series that I think my teenagers would love. In fact, they’ve stolen the first two books so I’m sure they’ll grab this one as soon as they discover it.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
In The Sword and the Song, you get the final installation of the story. But it’s more than that. It’s rough and it’s real and it’s going to pull you into the story and the chaos that is ensuing so that you are part of it and you’re invested.
This is one of those books that you see as a movie in your mind but you’d hate to see as a movie in real life because you’re going to hate it as it doesn’t follow what you have in your mind! Honestly, though I think I’d still love it because I loved the book that much. The whole series is amazing.
It’s also a series that I think my teenagers would love. In fact, they’ve stolen the first two books so I’m sure they’ll grab this one as soon as they discover it.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
February 7, 2022
This is the third book in this series, and you need to read them all; hopefully in order. This book may make you cry! It's as packed full as the other two. Sacrifice, good vs. evil, strong characters who have exceedingly realistic emotions, are just part of what made this story. The world that has been built for the last few books is now quite intense for this tale. It's still a clean read, so not worries there for YA readers. I still feel that YA is great for more than just its set readers, because I would have been missing out had I missed the end of this trilogy. I was a bit sad at the ending, it is pretty final, but it also fits. The pages are filled with emotion, faith didn't fall out of the plot, and I never get tired of the Celtic parts either. I can't give this book less than five stars, even if I'm in need of a tissue or wishing for a slightly different ending.
Thanks to Celebrate Lit for my digital copy. This review is my own, left freely. A positive review is never required.
Thanks to Celebrate Lit for my digital copy. This review is my own, left freely. A positive review is never required.
January 29, 2022
Wow! This book just stole the award for my favorite book of 2022 so far, and it’s going to be so tough to beat. I’ve read the author’s contemporary romance MacDonald Family Trilogy, and I enjoyed them. So, when I had opportunity to check out this fantasy offering, I jumped at it. I was far from disappointed.
This is the third in the series, and I hadn’t read the others. While I followed the story just fine, I do encourage you to read all of them. Not because you have to, but because I know you’re going to want to.
Everything about this story is so richly done. The setting, the characters, and the themes. All are woven together in a beautiful way to create an amazing story. I love the relationships, and I look forward to reading the other two books in the series to give them even more depth through their backstory.
If I could, I would give this story more than five stars. I received an ARC through Celebrate Lit. The opinions and reviews are my own.
This is the third in the series, and I hadn’t read the others. While I followed the story just fine, I do encourage you to read all of them. Not because you have to, but because I know you’re going to want to.
Everything about this story is so richly done. The setting, the characters, and the themes. All are woven together in a beautiful way to create an amazing story. I love the relationships, and I look forward to reading the other two books in the series to give them even more depth through their backstory.
If I could, I would give this story more than five stars. I received an ARC through Celebrate Lit. The opinions and reviews are my own.
August 12, 2019
This final installment of The Song of Seare Trilogy does not disappoint. Full of action and adventure, romance and betrayal, alliances formed and broken- Laureano takes readers through the full spectrum of emotions while Conor and Aine battle to protect their land and their love from those who want to destroy them both. The Sword and The Song is packed with unpredictable happenings, and an ending that is fitting to the superb series this is.
SUMMARY: Conor and Aine are back in Ard Dhaimhin and working with the Brotherhood to defeat the Red Druid. All of Seare is now at war, and the evil is taking over. When distance grows between Conor and Eoghan and Conor sets out to find the runes that can defeat the Red Druid, Aine is left to find her own way of defeating the evil that is quickly surrounding them. However, with a traitor in their ranks it seems that no one, and nowhere, is safe.
SUMMARY: Conor and Aine are back in Ard Dhaimhin and working with the Brotherhood to defeat the Red Druid. All of Seare is now at war, and the evil is taking over. When distance grows between Conor and Eoghan and Conor sets out to find the runes that can defeat the Red Druid, Aine is left to find her own way of defeating the evil that is quickly surrounding them. However, with a traitor in their ranks it seems that no one, and nowhere, is safe.
February 12, 2022
The Sword and the Song is book three in the Song of the Seare series that is written by Carla Laureano. I have read the other two books and would recommend reading them in order.
During the series we’ve followed Conor throughout his training. Now Seare is at war. The Red Druid has been working towards gathering power and strength. The Red Druid is now ready to take on the Firein Brotherhood. Eoghan and Conor have some differences and there’s some tension between them.
Conor knows he needs to find the key to beat the Red Druid. There’s so much danger he has to contend with. I love how the previous books prepares him for this.
This is a well written story, with a intriguing story like. It would be recommended to read the books in order.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.
During the series we’ve followed Conor throughout his training. Now Seare is at war. The Red Druid has been working towards gathering power and strength. The Red Druid is now ready to take on the Firein Brotherhood. Eoghan and Conor have some differences and there’s some tension between them.
Conor knows he needs to find the key to beat the Red Druid. There’s so much danger he has to contend with. I love how the previous books prepares him for this.
This is a well written story, with a intriguing story like. It would be recommended to read the books in order.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.
February 9, 2022
As the conclusion of a series, I definitely recommend reading these books in order. The author takes the reader through twists and turns that keep you interested. I have to say I enjoyed all the books in this series, including this one. The characters exude emotion and depth.
Examining good versus evil and the willingness to sacrifice, this book definitely kept me reading. I have to say this book moved me to tears at places. Conor and Aine show strength, courage, and determination. Whether you are a Young Adult or not, I am sure you will enjoy this book. Check it out for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own
Examining good versus evil and the willingness to sacrifice, this book definitely kept me reading. I have to say this book moved me to tears at places. Conor and Aine show strength, courage, and determination. Whether you are a Young Adult or not, I am sure you will enjoy this book. Check it out for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own
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February 6, 2022This is a really great story and I was so excited to get it and read it. Read the series in order to get the full effect and this one will be an amazing addition.
I can't say what I want to because I'm not going to do spoilers, but you should absolutely read the series. Character growth and development was great. There are twists and turns along with just a great storyline. Overall, it is one of my favorite series.
5/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I can't say what I want to because I'm not going to do spoilers, but you should absolutely read the series. Character growth and development was great. There are twists and turns along with just a great storyline. Overall, it is one of my favorite series.
5/5
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
February 8, 2022
"The Sword and the Song" by Carla Laureano is the third and final book in the series. I recommend reading all three books in order. My favorite book is the second book. All three books has heartbreak in the story line but this one has the worst heartbreak. I know all books can't end happily ever after but I am still asking myself "why did it have to end this way?
I am not a fan of epic fantasy as a rule but I did enjoy this series. It is filled with faith, loyalty and love magic, adventure. This book kept me reading till the end because I had to know who won in the end.
I was given a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I am not a fan of epic fantasy as a rule but I did enjoy this series. It is filled with faith, loyalty and love magic, adventure. This book kept me reading till the end because I had to know who won in the end.
I was given a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
May 21, 2020
It was good, but I’m not happy with its ending; it could have been better.
Well done to the writer though, for such a well crafted novel, but I think that Anie lost too much; her parents, her siblings and her husband. Not even regarding the fact that yes, I understand that Christ gave His life for us, but we have the miracle of His Resurrection to look forward to. Conor didn’t have that and as much as I regret to say this, the conclusion to this book, following the two exceptional books that preludes it, was not a climax I enjoyed.
Well done to the writer though, for such a well crafted novel, but I think that Anie lost too much; her parents, her siblings and her husband. Not even regarding the fact that yes, I understand that Christ gave His life for us, but we have the miracle of His Resurrection to look forward to. Conor didn’t have that and as much as I regret to say this, the conclusion to this book, following the two exceptional books that preludes it, was not a climax I enjoyed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2022
I have eagerly awaited the final book in the Song of Seare series. The book was well written and flowed well. It had adventure and danger and intrigue and I never knew exactly what was going to happen. There were parts that were hard to read because of what was happening and things I didn't expect. I loved this series and look forward to reading more books by Carla Laureano in the future.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
December 15, 2017
I've had this book for a while now. Received it from Goodreads giveaway. Unfamiliar with this trilogy, it took a little time to learn the characters who were quite intriguing. Also glad there was a map to help guide me through the lands. I enjoyed the different uses of magic throughout the story. My thoughts while reading were " Will good triumph over evil?" and it took a while to find out. It was worth the wait.
April 27, 2018
I enjoyed reading this whole series, as well as this particular part of it. I liked seeing how the main characters learned to trust, and seeing how they changed over the course of the series. I particularly liked the sense of humor of Ailill, one of the more minor characters, and kind of wished he had been in the book a little more.
July 12, 2022
Excellent series. I'm happy I bought it and waited to read the series until I had all three books. The covered are beautiful, and the story well-written. The characters are believable, especially their struggle to follow Comdiu/God's plan for them.
I'm not sure what more I can say to avoid spoilers, especially with the ending still fresh in my mind.
I'm not sure what more I can say to avoid spoilers, especially with the ending still fresh in my mind.
April 1, 2022
Epic conclusion to an epic trilogy. This story has so many fantastic twists and turns. I really appreciated the depth and growth of the characters. This book has so many good insights and poignant moments. The struggle is real and messy but hope and love remain.
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