From Publishers Weekly
Too many characters with too many names (most given in Gaelic, in their Anglicized form and with descriptive adjectives) involved in too many actions subvert Llywelyn's retelling of an important Irish legend. Finn MacCool is a warrior/poet, a leader of the Fianna , the first Irish army, in third-century Ireland. Separated from his parents after a battle with their ancient enemies, the clan of Morna, Finn is brought up in primitive circumstances. After learning of his heritage, he determines to become the strongest man in Ireland so that he will never have to run away from anything again. His early allegiance to Cormac MacAirt, the high king, alters with the ascension of MacAirt's son, Cairbre, who favors Finn's old enemies, the clan of Morna. In middle age, Finn recruits the legendary Diarmait, who--aided by Finn's son, Oisin--reestablishes their hold on the country. A romantic triangle ensues, involving Finn, Diarmait and Grania, daughter of Cormac MacAirt. This is a morality play of the highest order, with trust and sincerity winning out over more basic instincts. Llywelyn, whose The Lion of Ireland was said to be a favorite of Ronald Reagan, has produced a plodding narrative that does not rise above its mythic/historical details. $100,000 ad/promo; author tour.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From Library Journal
Did the man become the legend, or did the legend become the man? This is the question posed in this colorful and romantic retelling of the Fenian cycle. Historically, Finn and his elite band of Irish warriors/hunters/poets, the Fianna Eireann, flourished during the third-century reign of Cormac Mac Art. Their strength and prowess elevated them almost to the level of Cormac himself, but it is their flamboyant leader, Finn, of whom the legends tell. Raised in the forest under mystic circumstances, he lived a life full of heroism, great love, and desperate betrayal. Though his life has been retold and embellished countless times before, Llywelyn, who specializes in novels of Irish lore and legend (e.g., Bard: Odyssey of the Irish , LJ 10/1/84), offers a fresh view. This will appeal to readers of romance, history, and swashbucklers alike. Recommended.
- Susan Clifford, Hughes Aircraft Co. Lib., Los AngelesCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
