Exit Unicorns

Cindy Brandner's "Exit Unicorns" is one of very few books I care to read a second time -- in this case, over and over again. Her characters are precisely drawn -- strong, decisive, passionate -- and through their very strength and passion, used as pawns by those for whom Ireland's "troubles" are a smokescreen for another agenda. The magnificently contrasting language -- rich and colorful for the wealthy Jamie, stark and spare for the renegade Casey -- is the first indicator of endless clashes, clashes of values, desires, ambitions, responsibilities. Visceral and provocative, Brandner's story plumbs the depths of anger, despair and loss. Dark shadows of political intrigue blur the lines between friend and foe, turn a blind eye to murder and rape. Even romance can be used to further "the cause."Written from the poverty-stricken Catholic side of the conflict, the "other than official" version of history is placed in our grasp. The thousand year long machinations of a cruel, stubborn and stupid British governmental policy in regard to Ireland is clearly revealed as the real reason behind the bloodshed. This is an important book, as a novel, as history, and as a much-needed means of shaping the world's conscience in relation to Ireland.

If you like the Outlander series, you have to read Exit Unicorns - Cindy Brandner does for Ireland what Diana Gabaldon does for Scotland. This story brings the Irish troubles to life, full-throttle and technicolor. Along the way, Cindy weaves in vital historical background, luscious descriptive passages, and a love story that will leave you breathless. The passion and complexity of her subject matter is captured in a such a way that every time I read "IRA" or "Ulster" or "Belfast" in a headline now, I think of Cindy's characters, and wonder what they're up to.

I have had the opportunity of reading 'Exit Unicorns' and am flying through its pages a second time. Cindy Brandner possesses a unique gift, shared only with the most effective writer's in history, to weave a tale of intrigue, love, and adventure, sewn into the fabric of real historical events that leaves you breathless and wanting more. Her characters easily become a part of you, the images she portrays of Ireland with its rich and tragic heritage course through your heart and mind long after the book has been put down. Great things are to be seen from this talented author, this spinner of tales, this conjuror of emotions. I believe she will prove to be a true leader and inspiration to new and accomplished writer's alike.

I read Exit Unicorns after Christmas and it is the best book I have read in ages. The poetic flow of her writing is beautiful but the way she weaves the lives of her characters with Ireland's history is truly masterful. Cindy Brandner is a great writer and leaves you loving her characters.