Cover Image: Eyes of the Seer

Eyes of the Seer

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Member Reviews

Good God, is Ashley York ever going to write something that I don't like?!

In the 2nd book, we see the story of Diarmuid's best friend, and Astrid, Diarmuid's sister. Marcán is by far the only man Astrid doesn't see herself married to, no matter how much the poor man is pining for her. Instead, she's happy to follow all of her mother's instructions on how to behave and live her life, as long as it makes her mother happy. Until one of those decisions leads her down a path she finds is not right for her. Marcán is the one who saves her - and finally, Astrid is able to see who has cared for her all along, and what she has to do to set things in her life right again.

All right, I'll say it right now. I wasn't a fan of Astrid at first. I didn't like her meek attitude when it came to her mother, and how she acted like a bitch to everyone else. That's a cowardly act to follow, and though I understand her need to please her mother, like most people, that was taking it a step too far. A little dignity, woman!

Speaking of her mother, OF COURSE she was from Padraig's clan! Rotted, the whole lot of them! Nothing to redeem those people, no matter what! They talked a big game of how abused some of them were, and how they wanted to be respected as well and loved, but really, they acted awfully when it suited them, too! Not to mention how obsessed Beibhinn was when it came to her supposed religious beliefs (thank God for the priest at the end for putting her in her place)! First Aednat, and then poor Marcán - and in the latter's case, really, it was even worse! She was trying to ruin his life because she was rejected?! Woman, get a life! Classic example of a spoilt, bratty female who just couldn't let go! I pity Kane - he deserved better!

Another character that really shocked me when it came to my reactions was Faolan. I adored him at first, the stutter was really cute and he was adorable, like a puppy! But then he revealed another, more cunning and sort of deceiving side of him, and I was a bit sad with that fact. But that only goes to show how good Ms. York is in making her characters realistic. Just like real people, you never really know what is truly going on inside a person's head, or what their motives for helping you out are. Delightful, even if surprising!

All in all, I enjoyed this book - A LOT! Historical romance at its finest, and spot on to so many references. Ashley York knows how to mix fantasy and facts, and does so effortlessly! The dialogues, the way the people talk and act and think, and the pace, oh my! And don't even get me started on the love scenes - talk about hot and sexual tension thick as hell! I'm definitely reading the rest of the series!

***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***

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This book has a great storyline to entangle you in the drama of a romance set in Ancient Ireland.

The historical setting was a perfect background for the drama-filled, toe-curling excitement that takes place. There is a little bit of romance, a little bit of backstabbing and a lot of drama. The ending was set out so well. The character development was realistic as we slowly saw the true nature of the characters being exposed as Marcan and Astrid started seeing them for who they really were.

The plot development was really well done, leaving the perfect amount of intrigue and question to keep the reader hooked. And let's not forget the sexy scenes that build some extra intrigue and excitement.

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Amazing book that had me gripped from the beginning. Romance novel with good characters I loved to love, and villains I loved to despise. are hard to find. I stayed up late to finish it

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Incredible! A mind capturing gift of words that leaves you wanting more with each page. As the story unfolds you will run the gamut of emotions, however, the emotions will not be what grabs you. It instead will be the absolutely captivating way the author has of writing a story that pulls you in and keeps you immersed. I lost track of all that was going on around me while reading this book. I must say; I shall look for more by the author! You will definitely not be disappointed in this read so buy the book and take time for you uninterrupted to read and just enjoy! I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom

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I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. Astrid is a young woman not yet promised. Marcan is her brother’s second in command and who has loved Astrid for a very long time. Eventually there is a HEA but you need to read the story to appreciate all of the events that occur before Astrid realizes she loved Marcan for the wonderful and caring man that he is.
This is a well written story and I would r3commend the book.

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I am voluntarily submitting my honest review after receiving an ARC from NetGalley.

For fans of Irish history, this novel is a fantastic transportation back to the days of the sons of the great ard ri like Brian Boru. The second of the derbfine series, Eyes of the Seer can be read as a standalone novel, but I think it is best enjoyed after Curse of the Healer. The characters are compelling and the plot is dramatic and lively. The vibrant world of Ireland during Europe's Dark Ages vividly comes to life in this novel. Although some of the names are cumbersome and the titles and clan structure a bit difficult for Anglophiles to master, the glossary at the back is helpful and a good place to start for readers unfamiliar with medieval Ireland. This novel is a great place to leave the modern world behind and lose yourself for a few hours, and I can't wait for the next book in this series.

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Astrid is sick of her mother’s belittling goes along with her mother's plan marry to have her marry into Clan Meic Murchadha. The man she has chosen to marry turns out to be less honorable they she believed, but she keeps this to herself to insure there is no trouble in the clan. Marcan of Clonascra prowess as a warrior has earned him great respect. Astrid has known Marcan a long time he’s her brother Diarmuid’s best friend and they are both very protective of her. Marcan has been in love with her for a while, but it takes Astrid to come to realize the man right in front of her is the one she wants, but her mother has other plans her heart set on her daughter getting into Padraig's clan. True happiness awaits them, but only if they can put a stop to her mother’s plans. Another great story by Ashley York!!!
I voluntarily read an ARC copy and this is my honest opinions and review for Net Galley.

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Astrid wants to get married and she feels Padraig would do nicely, even though he is from a different clan. Marcan is second in command of their clan and loves Astride, he is a great warrior and for the time, well educated but he has different colored eyes.
There is a lot going on in this book and it is hard to pick and choose and not give any spoilers. The characters are very life like, fun and intelligent. They are kind and loving and boy, do some of them get their licks in, physical and verbal. The plot has many elements, that need to be swirled into a concise, smooth and even paced tale, which the author does nicely. She has written and amazing and rich book of the 1100's, Gael.
I received an ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.

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I was confused. This book wasn't for me. I didn't like the hero's reference to the heroine's 'tits' and 'arse' just felt wrong.

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This novel was an enjoyable read. I recommend reading the first book in the series, Curse of the Healer, since the stories do overlap each other. I have read a few of Ms. York's novels and I continue to enjoy them. She brings romance and history together, as well as prejudices of people for things they do not understand. Things are not always what they seem and the past has a way of impacting the present.
Astrid has always sought the approval of her mother, but is continuously disappointed. When her mother concocts a plan to have Astrid marry into Clan Meic Murchadha, Astrid goes along with her mother's plan. Though, her mother has a hidden agenda. I was frustrated with Astrid doing things to please her mother, but she did grow as a character and let her passions be released. She becomes a character that will do anything to protect the people she loves, even if it means sacrificing herself.
Marcán of Clonascra has been in love with Astrid for years but she is oblivious. Marcán watches out for Astrid, knowing the man she intends to be her betrothed has a dark side. He has two different color eyes and people believe it is a mark of a Seer, but Marcán is a warrior and highly observant.
When Astrid has an event that changes her perspective on her future goals, she realizes how much Marcán cares for her, for she feels foolish that she did not realize her own feelings toward him. However, her mother keeps interfering and with her brother's own troubles, it forces them to keep there relationship a secret.
As things begin to settle, another card is played which impacts their relationship and the fate of the clans. Will Astrid and Marcán be able to finally reveal their love to each for all to see or will her mother have the final word?

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