The Witches of Eileanan

I have been stuck in a book hangover ever since finishing the Bridei Chronicles by Juliet Marillier. Nothing I read was really satisfying that empty place in my heart until I picked up this book. If you love fantasy, folklore, epic quests and quirky characters you can really fall in love with, this is a MUST.

I must believe that most Fantasy fans have already heard of this grand series about the The Witches of Eileanan- but if you have not, you must take the time to read these books! Wonderful characters, adventures abound, a bit of mystery and intrigue- and it takes place in a world that reminds me of Ireland or Scotland. (having never been to either place I cannot be sure) This is one of those books that once you start reading, it is hard to put down. I have already read the first two in just a week- I should know. :) If you are looking for something new to read I urge to give it a try.

Witches and magic have been outlawed in the Celtic land of Eileanan. Nevertheless, brought by dragons, the foundling Isabeau lives in the valley hidden by the Dragonclaw with her guardian Meghan. Isabeau learns the old ways, including the gifts of speaking with animals, working with elements, and the knowledge of herbs. Her sixteenth birthday, the day on which acolytes are Tested for acceptance into the Coven as apprentices, brings about many changes.Civil war is coming to the land of Eileanan. The sea dwelling Fairgean wish to reclaim the land. Also, the ruler, called the Righ, married a mysterious woman called Maya the Unknown. It soon seemed as if a spell had cast on the Righ, as Maya began taking over all his duties. Soon he began to disdain the Coven of Witches, those who brought knowledge and guidance to his father. Eventually Maya used her influence to convince him to destroy the Witches in a dreadful day called The Day of Betrayal. It was then that the keybearer disappeared and the Towers were brought down. Now she breaks the pact with the dragons, challenging and killing them as well. Isabeau must set out on a quest to help join the three pieces of a key, while her guardian Meghan visits the Dragons. While with the Dragons, Meghan discovers Isabeau's twin--a woman opposite her in every way. Yet they are mysteriously linked, and physical pain for one becomes shared between them.This first book in Kate Forsyth's series 'The Witches of Eileanan' provides a terrific start to the series. Forsyth introduces the multifaceted of the tale with skill, creating strong, immediate interest in the reader. Her quick plot and strong characterization promises an addictive series. Indeed, Forsyth's skill at characterization dazzles as she manages to create sympathy for the evil Queen. Further, her unique twist on dragon lore is both original and inventive. In addition, Forsyth brings strong Wiccan influence into the novel, with a deep respect for the craft and old ways. By combining that which is familiar within the fantasy genre with her own unique voice, Forsyth creates the beginning to a promising and exciting trilogy. Very highly recommended.

I first stumbled upon the second book of the series at my local library when I was searching for readable fantasy. With all those other books out there that were either generic or just boring, I didn't expect much from this one (since it wasn't as highly publicized as Jordan or Eddings). However, I realized how wrong I was after reading it. Although there were some similarties to Jordan's WoT, this book had characters that weren't -just- good or evil. The magic, mystery, characters, and riddles were all woven into each chapter beautifully to keep me wanting more.The use of dialect also enhanced the reading and kept the book realistic to it's Scottish roots. The fantasy books that just keep to the traditional-fantasy-Medieval-kinda-thing gets a little repetitive... so the use of dialogue helped. For those who couldn't decipher the words, all it really takes is a little reading in between the lines. Actually, after reading The Pool of Two Moons (Book 2 of the series), I found myself thinking in Scottish Brogue, which was quite silly when I was trying to type an e-mail to my friend with words like "Och" and "ken."The Third book in the series did contain a lot more warfare than I would've liked. However, fans of Forsyth would know that she wishes to show the readers about Scottish history and their persecution for Pagan beliefs. With conflicting religions in Eileanan (The Coven Vs. The Bright Soldiers), war is bound to happen. The warfare just makes the book more realistic and enticing than typical hero-wins-easily-with-magic-bad-guy-loses fantasy.The females in this story also appealed to me when I started reading the book. The three main-female characters Isabeau, Meghan, and Iseult all have conflicting personalities, and Forsyth does wonders to show how these three females trudge through life. This is not only a fantasy book, but a "coming-to-age" book for young readers. This book simply proves that not everyone can have happy endings.To conclude this long review, I'd just like to say Forsyth brings a lot of reality, history, and magic into her works. Why not read it as book equal to Jordan's WoT series (which I found quite tedious after awhile) instead of seeing it as a copy of the series? All three books have their strong and weak points, like all books. But this series definitely has more strong points than weak. People will definitely have fun reading this series, and may Éa bless ye all.

This is the first book by Kate Forsyth that I have read and I found it to be extremely magical and captivating. From the moment I began to read I could not put it down. I thought the way she changed the wording around a little was very interesting. Also, I liked the way she showed the story from different character's points of view. As for the characters, my heart ached for Isabeau, and Ishbel intrigued me immensly. Also, I loved the way Iseult was so much in contrast to Isabeau. I wonder about their history and what is to happen with them. I am very curious as to how Margrit of the Thistle and the dragons will later fit into the story. All in all, it was a wonderful book, and I can't wait to read the sequel.

The Witches of Eileanan has everything a fantasy novel should have and much, much more. This is the most incredible fantasy series I have read. Kate Forsyth develops her characters to such an extent that I feel as though I know them personally. There are many detailed stories woven together to form this tale and each is as interesting as the next. The compelling storyline keeps me yearning for more. Book one and book two were so wonderful that I felt I couldn't wait for the third one to be released in the USA. I bought the existing three book from an Australian bookstore and they were all wonderful. The Australian books included maps and a glossary which are excellent companions to the stories. Kate Forsyth is currently working on book four. I can hardly wait for it to be released so that I can find out what lies ahead for Isabeau, Iseult, Lachlan, Meghan and all of the others in Eileanan. Kate Forsyth also has great website at www.ozemail.com.au/~kforsyth. This website includes details about the series as well as a pronounciation guide. I encourage everyone to read The Witches of Eileanan series.