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Tales of Seann Àite #2
Names of the Dead
Years after her discoveries at the village of Three Willows Fiadh returns to the island of Ghav Rhien.
An old friend calls for her aid as the last chance to save the haunted lord of the isle from the shadows that torment him in the night.
A spirit from across the sea has come to Seann Àite, and Fiadh must revisit her own past to solve the mystery behind the names of the dead.
An old friend calls for her aid as the last chance to save the haunted lord of the isle from the shadows that torment him in the night.
A spirit from across the sea has come to Seann Àite, and Fiadh must revisit her own past to solve the mystery behind the names of the dead.
39 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2020
6 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
Tristan Gray
7 books60 followersBorn in Jersey, Tristan Gray was a latecomer to Scotland, moving to the north in 2014.
After years of searching to find the real spark behind his writing Scotland unlocked it - The rugged country and dark history, which also inspired the works of George R. Martin, David Gemmell, and Elizabeth May, gave new meaning to the fantasy tales of his childhood.
Now, with a new connection to an adopted home driving his work, and inspiration stretching from conventional novels, to graphic novels, to games, Tristan is writing tales worthy of the inspiration by the land around him.
His first published work, the short story Whispers to a Crow, was published in August 2020.
After years of searching to find the real spark behind his writing Scotland unlocked it - The rugged country and dark history, which also inspired the works of George R. Martin, David Gemmell, and Elizabeth May, gave new meaning to the fantasy tales of his childhood.
Now, with a new connection to an adopted home driving his work, and inspiration stretching from conventional novels, to graphic novels, to games, Tristan is writing tales worthy of the inspiration by the land around him.
His first published work, the short story Whispers to a Crow, was published in August 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 2, 2021
Fiadh returns to the island of Ghav Rhien, where she was not welcome. But, She might be the only one who could find the source of Rìgh’s dark dreams. The Rìgh cannot sleep, he is plagued by shadows that come to him.
"Dearest Caoimhe, Domhnall, Rhona, Fionn,
the dead who lie but walk anew,
the fallen who rested now let me in,
to watch over the guilty few"
These are the Rìgh’s family, dead names that shouldn't be said aloud. He never truly recovered from their loss. The lost family of the Rìgh weren’t dead, not to him. Fiadh must be faced her own past and solve the mystery behind the names of the dead.
This was a second short story of Tales of Seann Àite. Fiadh’s adventure and her companion, Annis which I hope be in the next story, too.
Thanks to booksirens, I received an advance review copy of Names of the Dead (Tales of Seann Àite #2) by Tristan Gray for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Dearest Caoimhe, Domhnall, Rhona, Fionn,
the dead who lie but walk anew,
the fallen who rested now let me in,
to watch over the guilty few"
These are the Rìgh’s family, dead names that shouldn't be said aloud. He never truly recovered from their loss. The lost family of the Rìgh weren’t dead, not to him. Fiadh must be faced her own past and solve the mystery behind the names of the dead.
This was a second short story of Tales of Seann Àite. Fiadh’s adventure and her companion, Annis which I hope be in the next story, too.
Thanks to booksirens, I received an advance review copy of Names of the Dead (Tales of Seann Àite #2) by Tristan Gray for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 13, 2021
This is the second install of Fiadh's story. A brave woman known as "a Crow". A magical gifted warrior of sorts and the last one of her kind.
Once again this is a short book, yet it is such a magnificent story it's well worth the read.
Tristan Grey has a way with his writing that gives the story a life of it's own. He paints a canvas with words. It's amazing how I can envision the story as it unfolds.
If you're a fan of old world folklore and fairy tales this is a must read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Once again this is a short book, yet it is such a magnificent story it's well worth the read.
Tristan Grey has a way with his writing that gives the story a life of it's own. He paints a canvas with words. It's amazing how I can envision the story as it unfolds.
If you're a fan of old world folklore and fairy tales this is a must read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2023
Again the atmosphere is immediate. Fiadh was herself such a compelling mystery in the first book, Whispers to a Crow, that I was desperate to drink Ghav Rhien down. I like that Fiadh was a little freer here, if only momentarily. It was a fantastic contrast to the glimmers of her past she was forced to face. Both the good and and the guilt.
To that end, I enjoyed all of the characters introduced in Names of the Dead. Brianan brought out some of that freer self and I’m often soft for wise characters. Eònan was the most compelling. He loomed over the narrative, at times almost a haunting himself. In many ways he was more ghost than man. And I adored Annis who brought some much appreciated levity.
There was even one who did not have a name. And whom I can’t help but wonder if we’ll see again.
There are so many mysteries still to unravel. With so many more confrontations to come. The world still feels so vast and so on the cusp of discovery. But it’s not frustrating. Some books you read where the mysteries unfold into more mysteries and it tires you. You wonder if there was ever an end planned. If it could ever become satisfying. Names of the Dead is so full of promise and it gives you so much in return for your eager awaiting – Fiadh’s past. The Tur. A new lead. It builds on itself so beautifully.
I’ve spoken a little about how much I love the use of the Scots language in the series. Gàidhlig, Old English and, I believe, Norwegian, also make appearances here. I love how they fill out the world. My language lover heart remains utterly delighted with the series.
Many thanks to Book Sirens and the author, Tristan Gray, for this free review copy.
To that end, I enjoyed all of the characters introduced in Names of the Dead. Brianan brought out some of that freer self and I’m often soft for wise characters. Eònan was the most compelling. He loomed over the narrative, at times almost a haunting himself. In many ways he was more ghost than man. And I adored Annis who brought some much appreciated levity.
There was even one who did not have a name. And whom I can’t help but wonder if we’ll see again.
There are so many mysteries still to unravel. With so many more confrontations to come. The world still feels so vast and so on the cusp of discovery. But it’s not frustrating. Some books you read where the mysteries unfold into more mysteries and it tires you. You wonder if there was ever an end planned. If it could ever become satisfying. Names of the Dead is so full of promise and it gives you so much in return for your eager awaiting – Fiadh’s past. The Tur. A new lead. It builds on itself so beautifully.
I’ve spoken a little about how much I love the use of the Scots language in the series. Gàidhlig, Old English and, I believe, Norwegian, also make appearances here. I love how they fill out the world. My language lover heart remains utterly delighted with the series.
Many thanks to Book Sirens and the author, Tristan Gray, for this free review copy.
December 6, 2020
Names are wailed. A spirit is mourning. Another is reveling in the guilt of the Rìgh. Many years after the events of the first book, Fiadh is enlisted by an old priest and friend, Brianan, to aid the Rìgh with his spirits. But paranoia and his old misdeed makes the Rìgh mistrusting of the Crow, and Fiadh finds her life in danger.
Mesmerisingly poetic prose, mythical and creative, Names of the Dead is an undiscovered gem that deserves much more praise (even than the first book.) And unlike in the first book, I could find nothing to complain about at all in this one. It was just enjoyable and mysterious, and for those who wished for more action than the last book had, there is some in this one. More is also revealed about Fiadh's past, a new enemy (and ally) is introduced, and the story seems to be setting up a more episodic sequel (I mention this because the first and second books don't rely on each other too much) that I am very much looking forward to reading.
(I was given this book for free by Sandra Lopez's book club in exchange for an honest review.)
Mesmerisingly poetic prose, mythical and creative, Names of the Dead is an undiscovered gem that deserves much more praise (even than the first book.) And unlike in the first book, I could find nothing to complain about at all in this one. It was just enjoyable and mysterious, and for those who wished for more action than the last book had, there is some in this one. More is also revealed about Fiadh's past, a new enemy (and ally) is introduced, and the story seems to be setting up a more episodic sequel (I mention this because the first and second books don't rely on each other too much) that I am very much looking forward to reading.
(I was given this book for free by Sandra Lopez's book club in exchange for an honest review.)
November 9, 2023
I just finished book 2 of the series Tales of Seann Àite
I loved the read , it was fast paced and exciting as always with this author , its got to be one of my favorite male authors by far .
It tells a story of a crow called Fiadh , not the bird , but a being who fights the evil and cures curses and other not normal stuff that has evil intents to it .
She returns to the island that took her in after her families death years ago , and supported her till she was ready to support her self , there she finds the lord of the place ill with mares and evil lingers over him in the shadows ,as if he has been taken over by some evil being . Here she has to fight the evil and try to bring Eònan back to health like he had been once before a great leader ,so basically you follow her and annis , Brenan and others on the island trying to fight the evil that has branded the island to darkness , be careful what you whisper , of the names you hear . It could cost you dearly . More than you know .
I loved the read , it was fast paced and exciting as always with this author , its got to be one of my favorite male authors by far .
It tells a story of a crow called Fiadh , not the bird , but a being who fights the evil and cures curses and other not normal stuff that has evil intents to it .
She returns to the island that took her in after her families death years ago , and supported her till she was ready to support her self , there she finds the lord of the place ill with mares and evil lingers over him in the shadows ,as if he has been taken over by some evil being . Here she has to fight the evil and try to bring Eònan back to health like he had been once before a great leader ,so basically you follow her and annis , Brenan and others on the island trying to fight the evil that has branded the island to darkness , be careful what you whisper , of the names you hear . It could cost you dearly . More than you know .
June 28, 2023
"Names of the Dead" is the second book in Tristan Gray's Tales of Seann Àite series. Like "Whispers to a Crow," this is a short story that focuses on the FMC Fiadh. This adventure leads her to the island of Ghav Rhien to assist an old 'friend' with what she finds out is a mare, a Sjøfolk legend, that's haunting and driving mad the Righ (leader) of the island, who played a part in why Fiadh is the last of her kind.
This imparts a lot more history/background on Fiadh and the Crows, which I was hoping for after reading book one. It also introduces Fiadh's new companion, Annis, who hopefully shows up in the following stories. He seems super intrigued with what Fiadh does while still being cautious.
This is a great short story series I'm going to enjoy continuing.
Thank you to Tristan Gray & BookSirens for a complimentary digital copy of this to read and review.
This imparts a lot more history/background on Fiadh and the Crows, which I was hoping for after reading book one. It also introduces Fiadh's new companion, Annis, who hopefully shows up in the following stories. He seems super intrigued with what Fiadh does while still being cautious.
This is a great short story series I'm going to enjoy continuing.
Thank you to Tristan Gray & BookSirens for a complimentary digital copy of this to read and review.
June 15, 2022
I received a copy of this short story to review via BookSirens.
I love this authors short stories. They really pull you in and are very quick reads. Though, with his writing I could easily read an entire book about Fiadh's adventures. The Names of The Dead also struck a bit of a cord with me. The lesson Fiadh learns in this story is a simple yet powerful one and it will stick with me for awhile.
Overall I would recommend this for anyone who likes fantasy and doesn't mind a bit of a darker theme.
My only small complaint is how the author writes accents/dialects. It just makes it a bit hard to discern what a character is saying. I know this is a common practice though, so this probably comes down to personal preference.
I love this authors short stories. They really pull you in and are very quick reads. Though, with his writing I could easily read an entire book about Fiadh's adventures. The Names of The Dead also struck a bit of a cord with me. The lesson Fiadh learns in this story is a simple yet powerful one and it will stick with me for awhile.
Overall I would recommend this for anyone who likes fantasy and doesn't mind a bit of a darker theme.
My only small complaint is how the author writes accents/dialects. It just makes it a bit hard to discern what a character is saying. I know this is a common practice though, so this probably comes down to personal preference.
December 4, 2022
Originally reviewed here: Names of the dead book review.
I liked this book more than I did the first in the series (though I liked that one too - just had a few issues with it). It flowed a lot better and the speaking parts were easier to follow in this short story.
We get more information on Fiadh's history as she works to solve a new problem. She goes back in time in a vision which was fun. It was nice with Fiadh having a companion. I'm going to right into reading the third book in the series... More details on my website...
I received an ARC from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily...
I liked this book more than I did the first in the series (though I liked that one too - just had a few issues with it). It flowed a lot better and the speaking parts were easier to follow in this short story.
We get more information on Fiadh's history as she works to solve a new problem. She goes back in time in a vision which was fun. It was nice with Fiadh having a companion. I'm going to right into reading the third book in the series... More details on my website...
I received an ARC from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily...
January 3, 2021
A well written book that keeps you entertained the whole time. this is the second book I have read by this author and I’m sure it wont be the last. Tristan does a great job of describing the world and the people in it. It was so easy to get lost in this story that I read it all in one sitting.
Fiadah is once again summoned to take care of an other worldly problem. This time she travels through a portal to confront the ghosts of the dead. she also must confront her own past. I loved how the backstory of how she got Caerdrich was woven in that it didn’t even feel like a backstory. This second book was much better than the first!
Fiadah is once again summoned to take care of an other worldly problem. This time she travels through a portal to confront the ghosts of the dead. she also must confront her own past. I loved how the backstory of how she got Caerdrich was woven in that it didn’t even feel like a backstory. This second book was much better than the first!
January 3, 2022
I thought this had a slower start than the first in this series and it took me till about halfway through to really get into it. That being said, I did like it after finishing, but I didn't love it. I also had an easier time reading dialogue that included a typical Scottish accent. Would I recommend this to people? Yes, if they like spooky and dark stories. Would I be inclined to read the third book in this series? Yes.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 27, 2022
this was super atmospheric, which is my favourite thing about the author’s books. they make me feel like i am in the castle, the boat, the alternate dimension. and that is certainly not easy.
the first in the series was super enjoyable and this is no different. it was spooky as hell, had a great change of scenery and i liked the addition of a new recurring character too. these novelettes are absolutely perfect for when you want to read something that is basically a rainy scottish winter day in a book.
the first in the series was super enjoyable and this is no different. it was spooky as hell, had a great change of scenery and i liked the addition of a new recurring character too. these novelettes are absolutely perfect for when you want to read something that is basically a rainy scottish winter day in a book.
October 12, 2021
Actually 3.5.
Many years after the first part, Fiadh the Crow goes to Ghav Rhien to help Rìgh. Again, beautiful writing and language. I noticed that for a short story, this has quite a slow start. So I needed more time to get into it. I suppose I expected something different. It is a good short story, but I liked the first part better.
Thanks to the author for the ARC and the opportunity to read this! All opinions are my own.
Many years after the first part, Fiadh the Crow goes to Ghav Rhien to help Rìgh. Again, beautiful writing and language. I noticed that for a short story, this has quite a slow start. So I needed more time to get into it. I suppose I expected something different. It is a good short story, but I liked the first part better.
Thanks to the author for the ARC and the opportunity to read this! All opinions are my own.
December 22, 2021
This is the second book in this series. It's another short story. Airships and I liked it. I just had a problem with the accents of some of the characters. But I did get the gist of the story toward the end. I think the reason being, that I could not understand the accents because of my deafness. It's hard not hear the accents in the book. Good book, good author, now off to book 3.
I received a free copy of the book and is voluntarily writing a review
I received a free copy of the book and is voluntarily writing a review
November 3, 2020
I surprised myself enjoying this short story even more than the author’s previous publication. Again the world building was excellent and the story immersive. This time however we learned more of the characters history which added further depth and hinted at a wider narrative to explore. I am more invested in the characters and look forward to the next instalment.
September 27, 2021
Another wonderful story by Tristan Gray! Fiadh is a great character and I love reading stories about her.
This book is about another piece of Scottish folklore...one that attacks your dreams and your mind. The story is lyrical and fast paced with plenty of colorful characters.
I highly recommend!
I received a copy of this book from BookSirens and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is about another piece of Scottish folklore...one that attacks your dreams and your mind. The story is lyrical and fast paced with plenty of colorful characters.
I highly recommend!
I received a copy of this book from BookSirens and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
September 1, 2022
When the Righ is plagued by nightmares of dead people, Fiadh is called by one of his devout men to help. Fiadh is made unwelcome and the threat of death is imminent so she leaves no stone unturned to find a solution. An entertaining read about the adventures of Fiadh. The eerie and grim atmosphere is well depicted.
November 2, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this second instalment in the Tales of Seann Àite where we learn more of Fiadh’s history and experiences.
An excellent sense of a world behind the characters that left me wanting to know more!
I heartily recommend!
An excellent sense of a world behind the characters that left me wanting to know more!
I heartily recommend!
December 30, 2020
This is a fantastic short story, with an engaging lead character. Finished the entire thing too quickly.
It is an improvement on it's predecessor, mainly in that the plot and characters felt more fleshed out, the big bad felt more realised and the atmosphere was more engaged. Also felt that there was more at stake.
It is an improvement on it's predecessor, mainly in that the plot and characters felt more fleshed out, the big bad felt more realised and the atmosphere was more engaged. Also felt that there was more at stake.
August 23, 2021
This is such a great series. I love the length of the books. They're novella size, which makes them quick but they are wonderfully written. The characters are awesome and the world building is fantastic.
September 8, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another quick and unique read. Really great world and character building in such a short story.
Definitely a good in-between read :)
Another quick and unique read. Really great world and character building in such a short story.
Definitely a good in-between read :)
April 19, 2022
This was such an engaging book to read. It is the second in a series and it is just as good as the first if not better. I loved reading the ongoing tale of the main character and I can't wait to hear more in the next book. I highly recommend this series.
December 31, 2020
Was it short? Yes. Did I wish it was longer? Also yes, because then I could’ve kept on reading... but it was a good story all the same, and I hope that there will be much more to read about Fiadh and what she’s gone through.
January 11, 2022
If ever a book could win a heart with mere 51 pages, this one did. It was thoroughly captivating-the character of Fiadh so mysterious and haunting and the Scottish-Gaelic elements lent an exotic air to the whole story.
**I received an ARC copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
**I received an ARC copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
February 9, 2022
Another well written story. I got to understand the characters a little more and look forward to the third in the series.
June 21, 2023
A fun mini adventure follow on.
It read differently too, its like Tristan became more comfortable writing this one!
Really enjoyed it again!
On to the next!
It read differently too, its like Tristan became more comfortable writing this one!
Really enjoyed it again!
On to the next!
March 2, 2024
Tristan Gray did not disappointment again. Games of Thrones meets the Witcher. Highly recommend this book. I have received an advance copy for free, and leave this review voluntarily.
December 27, 2024
My comments on the first short story in this series also apply here. This is a good read, one I would gladly return to.
December 12, 2023
Faidh, the one last Crow is summoned to lift the curse that haunts the lord of the Isle. She not very welcome, for the lord destroyed her home and her kin many years ago. And now a Crow is coming to his court.
She has to face her own past and her struggles and feelings of guilt.
The experiences in the dreams are written so well. It kept me on the edge of my chair until the last page. For sure, there will be more books to come. I am hooked.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
She has to face her own past and her struggles and feelings of guilt.
The experiences in the dreams are written so well. It kept me on the edge of my chair until the last page. For sure, there will be more books to come. I am hooked.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews