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Writer's pictureDK Marley
Oct 11, 20213 min read

After Gairech by Micheal Cladain - Blog Tour and Book Review


Author Bio

Micheál Cladáin studied the classics and developed a love of ancient civilizations during those studies. Learning about ancient Roman and Greek cultures was augmented by a combined sixteen years living in those societies, albeit the modern versions, in Cyprus and Italy. As such, Micheál decided to write historical fiction, trying to follow in the footsteps of such greats as Bernard Cornwell and Conn Iggulden. Because of his Irish roots, he chose pre-Christian Ireland as his setting, rather than ancient Italy or Greece.

Micheál is a full-time writer, who lives in the wilds of Wexford with his wife and their border terriers, Ruby and Maisy.

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Book Title: After Gáirech

Author: Micheál Cladáin

Publication Date: 30th September 2021

Publisher: PerchedCrowPress

Page Length: 370 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction


Book Blurb


The battle of Gáirech is over; the armies of Connachta, Lagin, and Mumu are destroyed! Survivors are ravaging The Five Kingdoms of Ireland!


While working to resolve the Kingdoms’ issues and bring peace, Cathbadh is murdered, dying in his son Genonn’s arms. Genonn vows to avenge the death of his father.


For his revenge to work, he needs Conall Cernach and the Red Branch warriors of Ulster. But Conall is gone, searching for the head of Cú Chulainn. Genonn sets out to find him, aided by the beautiful Fedelm, the capricious Lee Fliath and the stalwart Bradán.


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Available on KindleUnlimited.



Book Review


From the outset, I was completely enthralled by this story, with one caveat - it did take me a while to sort out the characters and the storyline and it wasn't until about a third way into the book that I finally said, "oh, okay, I get what is happening" - and after that, I am so glad I stuck it out, but I must say that I think the first books need to be read before this one to get an overall understanding of what is going on.

The narrative is rich and full-bodied like a deep dark ale guzzled in a dark tavern somewhere in ancient Ireland. and this legend-come-to-life is one I was not familiar with but am now hooked in knowing more (the other books are now in my TBR list). You can definitely get the sense of the author's passion for Ireland and the research, wow, the immense research he must have done to bring this to life is simply astounding. I truly felt as if I was reading actual history instead of a myth/history, and I highlighted an entire chapter as one of my favorites - that of the encounter between the Cailleach, Queen Medb and Conell - that glued me to each and every word in anticipation.

The second passage I adored was from the "Storyteller" chapter - "How could he tell them there was no glory in battle? All they saw was the shiny helmets, the mail coats, golden torcs and armbands; the riches and the banter, men and women who enjoyed their lives. How could he explain to those who toiled all day in a field, it came at a price? How could he tear apart their dreams, telling them battle held only blood, sh*t, and the screams of the dying, all calling for their mothers in the agony of their final moments?...." and more... just read it, you will be simply captivated. These brief excerpts give you an idea of the profound depth and storytelling ability of Micheal Cladain. Read this book... you won't regret it!

I received a copy from The Coffee Pot Book Club for a review on this blog tour.


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1 Comment

Mary Anne Yarde
Mary Anne Yarde
Oct 11, 2021
•

I am so glad you enjoyed After Gáirech.

Thank you so much for hosting today's tour stop. We really appreciate all that you do.


Mary Anne

The Coffee Pot Book Club

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