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Danu's Curse
Neas is no ordinary woman. Born with Fae magic in her veins, she is the only mortal with immortal abilities in Ireland. Due to her powers, she has always been protected by her uncle, a toisech of a powerful Irish clan. But war continues to hang in the air, and Neas agrees to marry a prized warrior from another village in a desperate bid to strengthen peace between clans, even though she loves another man.
When Fomorians rise from the Underworld and begin to attack, Neas begins to question her uncle's motives. Her uncle keeps her hidden behind the walls of his stronghold, away from the outside world as her people are slaughtered. Even though her magical abilities could easily end the bloodshed, she is pushed to the side until Neas uncovers the truth of his plan.
Can Neas stop her uncle's bid for ultimate power without losing those she loves?
Danu's Curse is a sweeping standalone Irish fantasy novel. If you enjoy independent female heroines, Irish mythology and fairy tales, and a thrilling magic-fueled story, then you will love Nicole Pierman's epic story.
When Fomorians rise from the Underworld and begin to attack, Neas begins to question her uncle's motives. Her uncle keeps her hidden behind the walls of his stronghold, away from the outside world as her people are slaughtered. Even though her magical abilities could easily end the bloodshed, she is pushed to the side until Neas uncovers the truth of his plan.
Can Neas stop her uncle's bid for ultimate power without losing those she loves?
Danu's Curse is a sweeping standalone Irish fantasy novel. If you enjoy independent female heroines, Irish mythology and fairy tales, and a thrilling magic-fueled story, then you will love Nicole Pierman's epic story.
298 pages, ebook
First published September 21, 2022
5 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Pierman
12 books352 followersNicole Pierman rocks out to metal, is obsessed with coffee, and (obviously) loves to write. She also write urban fantasy under the pen name Nicole Brona.
Writing is part of her DNA, but when Nicole’s not writing, she’s either baking, reading, or active on her YouTube channel.
You can find Nicole on these platforms:
Website → https://nicolepierman.com
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/Nicole-Pierm...
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU1G...
Merch Store: https://nicolepierman-shop.fourthwall...
Writing is part of her DNA, but when Nicole’s not writing, she’s either baking, reading, or active on her YouTube channel.
You can find Nicole on these platforms:
Website → https://nicolepierman.com
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/Nicole-Pierm...
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU1G...
Merch Store: https://nicolepierman-shop.fourthwall...
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 24, 2023
Updated on September 1st, 2022
My Irish Fantasy novel, Danu's Curse, is officially out now! Thank you all so much for your support and patience during my publishing journey. Neas, Finn, Aoibheann, and the rest of the family appreciates it.
You can order the book on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7P5W4G2
———
HUGE NEWS! GREAT NEWS! You're going to love it ☘️❤️
It took half the year due to a string of personal issues and bad luck on my part, but my Irish Fantasy book, Danu's Curse, will be published on September 1st, 2022!
You might be asking why my third book will be published before my second book, The Two Foxes. Well, my second book has run into the worst bad luck—it's been a bad luck extravaganza for me this year. However, my third novel is ready to be published and when you're a self published writer that's run into a string of bad luck, you need to be flexible.
Mato, my cover artist, knew exactly what I wanted. I was concerned about my specific look for my main character, Neas. But he managed to find an amazing model that looks exactly what I had in mind for her. The three ravens on the cover signify The Morrigan's sacred ravens (and the sacred number 3 seen in many Celtic stories) that are seen throughout the story. I also wanted to include a lush forest behind her due to Ireland's well-known forests that are said to be full of magic. Ireland was so well known for its trees and thick forests, the British took advantage of it and created a deforestation issue for centuries.
My Irish Fantasy novel, Danu's Curse, is officially out now! Thank you all so much for your support and patience during my publishing journey. Neas, Finn, Aoibheann, and the rest of the family appreciates it.
You can order the book on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7P5W4G2
———
HUGE NEWS! GREAT NEWS! You're going to love it ☘️❤️
It took half the year due to a string of personal issues and bad luck on my part, but my Irish Fantasy book, Danu's Curse, will be published on September 1st, 2022!
You might be asking why my third book will be published before my second book, The Two Foxes. Well, my second book has run into the worst bad luck—it's been a bad luck extravaganza for me this year. However, my third novel is ready to be published and when you're a self published writer that's run into a string of bad luck, you need to be flexible.
Mato, my cover artist, knew exactly what I wanted. I was concerned about my specific look for my main character, Neas. But he managed to find an amazing model that looks exactly what I had in mind for her. The three ravens on the cover signify The Morrigan's sacred ravens (and the sacred number 3 seen in many Celtic stories) that are seen throughout the story. I also wanted to include a lush forest behind her due to Ireland's well-known forests that are said to be full of magic. Ireland was so well known for its trees and thick forests, the British took advantage of it and created a deforestation issue for centuries.
December 10, 2022
As a non-native Irish speaker, I'm thankful, the author, Nicole Pierman, added a list of names and words difficult to say with phonetic spelling. An awesome read!
July 10, 2023
| I received an ARC for an honest review |
3.5 stars ✨
This historical fantasy in the Ancient Ireland has folklore, clans, Faes, and fear of war and a prophecy also romance as a sub-genre. Wow! The writer writes beautiful descriptions on the setting, taste and smell is important, and what characters are wearing and their physical traits. The prose is great! The opening chapter with Neas is good; the audience gets to know and empathize because of the social tension, arranged marriage to a man she does not love. She's in love with her childhood lover, Finn. My heart went out to Neas.
The mystery on what and who are killing their clan members, the plot increases as the audience learns about what is happening. This story has it all! I thought it was cool that Neas has fire powers and her friend, Aoibheann, helps tutored her.
The ending. Oh my goodness. This story is definitely fitting for this autumn / October vibes.
**Warning: Blood and violence scenes because of war / fighting. Also, background sexual content and with a couple of fade to black scenes, I recommend 18+ years old but up to your discretion.**
3.5 stars ✨
This historical fantasy in the Ancient Ireland has folklore, clans, Faes, and fear of war and a prophecy also romance as a sub-genre. Wow! The writer writes beautiful descriptions on the setting, taste and smell is important, and what characters are wearing and their physical traits. The prose is great! The opening chapter with Neas is good; the audience gets to know and empathize because of the social tension, arranged marriage to a man she does not love. She's in love with her childhood lover, Finn. My heart went out to Neas.
The mystery on what and who are killing their clan members, the plot increases as the audience learns about what is happening. This story has it all! I thought it was cool that Neas has fire powers and her friend, Aoibheann, helps tutored her.
The ending. Oh my goodness. This story is definitely fitting for this autumn / October vibes.
**Warning: Blood and violence scenes because of war / fighting. Also, background sexual content and with a couple of fade to black scenes, I recommend 18+ years old but up to your discretion.**
October 28, 2022
I received a free copy of this book from Book Sirens in exchange for an honest review.
Danu's Curse is an Irish Fantasy novel set around the Fae and the Tuatha De Danann. Neas was gifted powers no other Mortal has but never knew why until war comes to her land.
I really enjoyed this one! Quick read and great storytelling. The world was set up nicely in a short amount of time. Definitely recommend!
Danu's Curse is an Irish Fantasy novel set around the Fae and the Tuatha De Danann. Neas was gifted powers no other Mortal has but never knew why until war comes to her land.
I really enjoyed this one! Quick read and great storytelling. The world was set up nicely in a short amount of time. Definitely recommend!
September 26, 2022
I am an admirer of Celtic Mythology. When I saw the words Tuath de Danann and that this book was like Kevin Hearne's "Iron Druid Chronicles", I was hooked!
The book introduces us to Neas, she is a fascinating character who develops in her maturity and nature throughout the book. She is born with Fae magic and she has Aoibheannan to train her abilities. She is an orphan "safeguarded" by her Uncle, the King. Regardless that she was in love with her childhood sweetheart, she is betrothed to the right-hand man of the king, with whom she had no interest.
Together with her cousins, and a few others, they plan to stop the blight that is destroying their lands and killing the neighboring villages.
The book was neat, definitely, a popcorn read, each chapter had an end of a little story per chapter, which made it an easy read. I loved it!
(Disclosure: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
The book introduces us to Neas, she is a fascinating character who develops in her maturity and nature throughout the book. She is born with Fae magic and she has Aoibheannan to train her abilities. She is an orphan "safeguarded" by her Uncle, the King. Regardless that she was in love with her childhood sweetheart, she is betrothed to the right-hand man of the king, with whom she had no interest.
Together with her cousins, and a few others, they plan to stop the blight that is destroying their lands and killing the neighboring villages.
The book was neat, definitely, a popcorn read, each chapter had an end of a little story per chapter, which made it an easy read. I loved it!
(Disclosure: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
September 24, 2022
This book transported me to ancient Ireland, a world of magic, fae, demons, heros (and heroines), and war. It's thoroughly researched, and the descriptions were lush and clear, the characters interesting and with a lot of depth and realism. Another great read from Nicole Pierman!
December 27, 2023
I loved the sound of Danu’s Curse as soon as I saw it, both because of the cover as well as the blurb. Irish mythology, the fae, and strong female protagonists. Sadly the book didn’t work quite as well for me as I had hoped.
The characters weren’t quite as fleshed out as I would’ve liked and they acted younger than I’d like for a story like this. They didn’t seem like they were an age where they would need to worry about marriage or be able to handle the stresses that were put on them in this story. They also seemed a bit gullible and I’m surprised they figured the whole thing out by the end. Then again though, despite the claims that things would be so difficult for them, they still seemed to conquer every challenge easily in the end.
There were several positives for me as well though. I loved the pronunciation guide for Irish words at the start and how smoothly integrated they felt into the story. The quick chapters made it feel like you were moving through the book at a good pace the whole time. I think my favorite part about this book though was how much comfort the main characters found with each other in a non-romantic way. So many books focus on the love interest, which we had here as well, but not enough put emphasis on the emotional support you can have between friends.
While overall the writing felt too YA for my liking and there were some inconsistencies about the world and character behavior, I still think the author had a great foundation and ideas for her book.
The characters weren’t quite as fleshed out as I would’ve liked and they acted younger than I’d like for a story like this. They didn’t seem like they were an age where they would need to worry about marriage or be able to handle the stresses that were put on them in this story. They also seemed a bit gullible and I’m surprised they figured the whole thing out by the end. Then again though, despite the claims that things would be so difficult for them, they still seemed to conquer every challenge easily in the end.
There were several positives for me as well though. I loved the pronunciation guide for Irish words at the start and how smoothly integrated they felt into the story. The quick chapters made it feel like you were moving through the book at a good pace the whole time. I think my favorite part about this book though was how much comfort the main characters found with each other in a non-romantic way. So many books focus on the love interest, which we had here as well, but not enough put emphasis on the emotional support you can have between friends.
While overall the writing felt too YA for my liking and there were some inconsistencies about the world and character behavior, I still think the author had a great foundation and ideas for her book.
September 1, 2022
An Entertaining Fantasy in Long-Ago Eire - 4-1/2 Stars
As someone with limited experience in television production, and as someone who enjoys an entertaining series or feature film, I can easily see the possibility of this story, if produced well, becoming a successful television or streaming series.
Neas is a young woman in an ancient culture, who, due to her abilities, has been kept in a somewhat guarded status by her uncle. Her uncle's style of care has resulted in a moderate slowing of her emotional and social maturing. At the time we meet Neas, she is reaching a point that adult thinking, choices, and actions are quickly becoming a part of her life, and the lives of many depend on what she does.
The writing style could be a reflection of Neas’ mixed maturity - at times perhaps thinking and behaving a bit younger than her years, at other times beyond her age and place in her culture. Hopefully readers will experience this as their own sharing in a portion of Neas’ journey.
I can sum up my reading of this story as I would say about an amusement park - I enjoyed the ride. The main character has a fire and more, figurative and real, that I like.
(Disclosure: this reader received an advance copy.)
As someone with limited experience in television production, and as someone who enjoys an entertaining series or feature film, I can easily see the possibility of this story, if produced well, becoming a successful television or streaming series.
Neas is a young woman in an ancient culture, who, due to her abilities, has been kept in a somewhat guarded status by her uncle. Her uncle's style of care has resulted in a moderate slowing of her emotional and social maturing. At the time we meet Neas, she is reaching a point that adult thinking, choices, and actions are quickly becoming a part of her life, and the lives of many depend on what she does.
The writing style could be a reflection of Neas’ mixed maturity - at times perhaps thinking and behaving a bit younger than her years, at other times beyond her age and place in her culture. Hopefully readers will experience this as their own sharing in a portion of Neas’ journey.
I can sum up my reading of this story as I would say about an amusement park - I enjoyed the ride. The main character has a fire and more, figurative and real, that I like.
(Disclosure: this reader received an advance copy.)
September 4, 2022
While reading Danu’s Curse, I was well reminded of the Arthurian retelling, Cursed, but in an Ancient Irish setting. I don’t think I’ve read fantasy from Nicole Pierman before, especially Fae fantasy, but it was an enjoyable first. A good bit of research seems to have been put into the setting and the legends, and I was grateful for the glossary at the beginning of the ebook copy, because I couldn’t pronounce any of it without it.
Neas herself is an interesting character to watch develop throughout the book, a woman who is a fae and kept mostly secret, married off to a warrior from another Clan that she barely knows.
It’s not a very long read, but each chapter was more impressive than the last, and the action packed ending is all very much worth the binge read, especially if you have a few moments of the day to put aside to read Danu’s Curse. I was given the chance to read this as an ARC reader and finished it within a few days, and refreshed my memory within another few to write this review.
Overall, I enjoyed it, and Nicole Pierman is still an incredible historical-based author, and there’s another book that I CANNOT wait for (and thankfully, don’t need to, but y’all gotta read that one too.)
Neas herself is an interesting character to watch develop throughout the book, a woman who is a fae and kept mostly secret, married off to a warrior from another Clan that she barely knows.
It’s not a very long read, but each chapter was more impressive than the last, and the action packed ending is all very much worth the binge read, especially if you have a few moments of the day to put aside to read Danu’s Curse. I was given the chance to read this as an ARC reader and finished it within a few days, and refreshed my memory within another few to write this review.
Overall, I enjoyed it, and Nicole Pierman is still an incredible historical-based author, and there’s another book that I CANNOT wait for (and thankfully, don’t need to, but y’all gotta read that one too.)
January 1, 2023
Naes is a young woman who was gifted incredible powers by the gods, but no answers as to why. When her clan’s leader marries Naes off to someone she doesn’t much care for, she becomes torn between her duties and her desires, but more importantly, dark forces are done plotting in the shadows and are about to strike.
Now, I’m fairly certain I’m not the target audience for this book, but it was a smooth read, nonetheless. I appreciated the fantasy elements, the character dynamics, the overall story… What didn’t click with me was the main character. I think Naes would resonate more with the female demographic and/or romance readers.
The writing itself was effective, though I think it could’ve been a bit more poignant at times—especially when it came to certain introspective character moments. Such moments definitely had a place in this story, but some of them came across as overly dramatic due to how the characters’ behavior was described.
That being said, the pacing was on point from start to finish. There is a strong sense of adventure and teamwork present in the story. The main characters have a pleasant and believable dynamic between them, and you could tell they shared strong bonds. The romantic bits were also done well, actually, I just didn’t much care for them because I didn’t much care for Naes…
Even though Naes is our only lead, somehow I found everyone else more interesting. Maybe it’s the Superman effect, due to her elemental powers… Her magical abilities aren’t limitless, and there are established consequences for overusing them, but even so, I never felt Naes was in any real danger. This robbed most action scenes of suspense, but on the other hand, it was fun watching a character use their special abilities effectively.
Both in and out of combat, the fantasy elements present in Danu’s Curse are well-implemented and integral to the story. Irish folklore, upon which the fantasy here is based off, is both colorful and grim, and this book shies away from neither. Definitely the highlight for me!
In conclusion, even though I wasn’t thrilled about every aspect of Danu’s Curse, there are plenty of things to like here. It was a light read and a good time, I'd say.
Now, I’m fairly certain I’m not the target audience for this book, but it was a smooth read, nonetheless. I appreciated the fantasy elements, the character dynamics, the overall story… What didn’t click with me was the main character. I think Naes would resonate more with the female demographic and/or romance readers.
The writing itself was effective, though I think it could’ve been a bit more poignant at times—especially when it came to certain introspective character moments. Such moments definitely had a place in this story, but some of them came across as overly dramatic due to how the characters’ behavior was described.
That being said, the pacing was on point from start to finish. There is a strong sense of adventure and teamwork present in the story. The main characters have a pleasant and believable dynamic between them, and you could tell they shared strong bonds. The romantic bits were also done well, actually, I just didn’t much care for them because I didn’t much care for Naes…
Even though Naes is our only lead, somehow I found everyone else more interesting. Maybe it’s the Superman effect, due to her elemental powers… Her magical abilities aren’t limitless, and there are established consequences for overusing them, but even so, I never felt Naes was in any real danger. This robbed most action scenes of suspense, but on the other hand, it was fun watching a character use their special abilities effectively.
Both in and out of combat, the fantasy elements present in Danu’s Curse are well-implemented and integral to the story. Irish folklore, upon which the fantasy here is based off, is both colorful and grim, and this book shies away from neither. Definitely the highlight for me!
In conclusion, even though I wasn’t thrilled about every aspect of Danu’s Curse, there are plenty of things to like here. It was a light read and a good time, I'd say.
January 2, 2023
3.75 stars
Danu's Curse is an entertaining fantasy novel set in an Ancient Ireland, where Druids advise clan leaders, and Tuatha de Danann inhabit magical groves. It is a story of political intrigue, ancient evil, and the very way of life of these Celtic people coming under intense peril.
Neas is our protagonist, She is Danu's Chosen, a young woman born with magic, being raised by her uncle who is a powerful Toisech (clan leader) of his people. Tutored in the ways of her god-granted powers by Aoibheann, one of the mystical Tuatha de Danann, we follow Neas as she seeks to unconver who or what is behind an emerging threat to their people, as an army of outside warriors, aided by the Fomori (a monstrous supernatural giant-like race) begin raiding their lands.
Nicole Pierman takes us through a journey stepped in Celtic myth, where men and gods, and sorted mystical creatures all vie for power and control.
Overall, a fun read that ramps up the action and emotion as the plot moves towards its finale. I'd definitely read more stories set in this world with Neas and her fellow family and friends.
Note: I was given an arc of this to read with no expectations of a required review. I also ended up purchasing my own copy as well once it was published.
Danu's Curse is an entertaining fantasy novel set in an Ancient Ireland, where Druids advise clan leaders, and Tuatha de Danann inhabit magical groves. It is a story of political intrigue, ancient evil, and the very way of life of these Celtic people coming under intense peril.
Neas is our protagonist, She is Danu's Chosen, a young woman born with magic, being raised by her uncle who is a powerful Toisech (clan leader) of his people. Tutored in the ways of her god-granted powers by Aoibheann, one of the mystical Tuatha de Danann, we follow Neas as she seeks to unconver who or what is behind an emerging threat to their people, as an army of outside warriors, aided by the Fomori (a monstrous supernatural giant-like race) begin raiding their lands.
Nicole Pierman takes us through a journey stepped in Celtic myth, where men and gods, and sorted mystical creatures all vie for power and control.
Overall, a fun read that ramps up the action and emotion as the plot moves towards its finale. I'd definitely read more stories set in this world with Neas and her fellow family and friends.
Note: I was given an arc of this to read with no expectations of a required review. I also ended up purchasing my own copy as well once it was published.
December 4, 2024
I have quite a lot of both Irish and Scottish blood in my veins and I have always liked the tales, but this is the first I have heard of several of main and lesser Fae. The tale is a good one and the heroine of the story is a worthy one. The characters are very interesting, the plot is twisty, the antagonists are quite powerful, and the eventual sacrifice is hard won. I definitely recommend this book.
March 26, 2024
Danu's Curse is a book about Irish folklore and a hero's choice. The war between clans has begun and everyone must choose a side. It's a story filled with magic, lore, choices and love. Fast-paced and full of ups and downs, with great characters, this story is perfect for anyone who wants to know a little about Irish folklore.
Also, I appreciated the glossary at the beginning of the book, it was a huge help with the pronunciation of some of the names and titles.
Also, I appreciated the glossary at the beginning of the book, it was a huge help with the pronunciation of some of the names and titles.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews