Everyone who knows me knows how much I talk about this series but WHAT AN ENDING. I need to go back and read from the beginning, to take it all in. One of my favourite aspects of this series is how Shauna brings the villains to life as much as the heroes - truly understanding back stories, motivations, where they come from, doesn't take away from their actions but adds to it. I am not emotionally well from that ending.

Sometimes the culmination of a story is about the price you’re willing to pay. To obtain the person or thing you most want be it love, power or peace how much are you prepared to sacrifice. Will you be happy with your choices, destroyed by them or just very disappointed? In Shauna Lawless’ Theland of the Living and the Dead we return to 11th century Ireland for the excellent conclusion to the fantastic Gael Song series.

Ireland has been for centuries now the battle between two magical groups. The Descendents and the Fomorians. The latter pursued the former to their near total destruction, but Gormflaith and her brother Maelmorda survived and became respectively Queen to Brian the High King of Ireland and King of Leinster. Being I positions of power they continued to scheme as to how to strike back against their ancient enemies manipulating Irish and Viking leaders to Gormflaith’s many schemes. The descendants under their leader Tomas turned inward hiding at a magical fortress and guarding magical treasures. One of them Fodla though has found Tomas was taking power for himself ruthlessly, playing with magic to control people to serve his own ends and Fodla has found humans to be far more worth saving; in particular she struck a relationship up with Murchad King Brian’s son. The events of the last few years means Fodla has gone into hiding looking after her sister’s child but now once again the machinations of Tomas and Gormflaith are pulling not just Fodla but human and magical communities into the next battle for the future direction of Ireland.

To conclude this arc of the series (more books set later in Ireland’s history have been announced) I can just confirm this was a delight to read. Lawless finely balances a huge number of characters, factions and even nations to build up the tension towards a huge climatic battle that will have huge consequences for Ireland and all the key characters we have come to know across these three books.

Prior to that the first acts of the story set up the sense that time has passed. I really liked how we see all the main characters have changed subtly over time. Fodla having taken herself off the board with Broccan on a hidden Ireland is in some ways the least changed being immortal and so her arc is exploring the changes on human and descendant side when she is required to come back. Broccan is now a young man with a point to prove and finds humans and the glory of battle too tempting to resist while Fodla finds Murched is now a strong leader in the making but has clearly been hurt by Fodla’s disappearance many years ago. Watching these two reconnect and try to start again is one of the most emotional lines as we have two people finding happiness again. Of course, this is w here all the other plotlines then come along to potentially spoil things!

Fodla’s relationship with the Descendants is once again tested as Tomas pushes things to even more extremes. We see him trying to control the other Descendants through magic and now there needs to be a reckoning. Fodla is quite key to the next chapter of that battle and here Lawless shows how much Fodla’s confidence in herself grows as she is now very much no longer in awe of Tomas and knows her own mind. Watching her stand up to him is hugely empowering but also heralds some key changes in the Descendants as to where they go more insular or start to look again at mixing with humans. These sections are filled with all sorts of magic, fierce battles and witches and a sense of the more stranger magical world at work. Huge shifts are coming and how the descendants will survive them becomes quite key tot eh book.

This neatly brings us back to the books’ most fascinating character Gormflaith. In many ways a villain but I do have to admit she is just absolutely fascinating whenever she appears on the page. Gormflaith is less about just being evil but so fully ruthless to get what she wants and its hard not to admire her schemes and resourcefulness. If it was not for her gender, she would no doubt would have been a mighty king in her won right and how she is constantly dismissed as a wife, mother or woman is a common theme not just to insult her but also, she is constantly underestimated by the powerful men around her. Now in Brian’s court she has her own magical empowered son Donnchad to train and their dynamic is fascinating. Gormflaith has not the time to play sweet games, so she instils on her children the need for power and to protect themselves. This may not always end up where she wants them to be, and the book is quite unpredictable as to where this family will be heading at a personal dynamic of people starting to think now that Brian is getting old as to who next gets the High Kingship of Ireland. Fodla’s desire to aver her family of descendants is neatly compared to Gormflaith’s desire to control and direct them and suffer no potential threat to herself which ultimately may be Gormflaith’s biggest weakness that she never seems prepared to let anyone else thrive on their own too feet.

That works neatly for Gormflaith’s cunning plan to fight to battles using Irish and Viking troops. A desperate attack on the Descendants is cunningly prepared and at the same time she wishes to start a war with her own husband t ensure her brother and sons get power next! Watching how Gormflaith engineers all of this is beautiful intrigue and strategy. Lawless in doing so also neatly explores and explains the shifting power dynamics of the historical period culminating in a huge set piece where thousands of men on both sides prepare for battle on the shores of Ireland. The tension has been nicely simmering and then the book’s final acts unleash all of this with great action, tactics and quite personal drama where characters end up meeting for the last time. There is a huge feeling of these storylines ending in this book so be prepared to see the end of some familiar faces but Lawless makes us feel the costs of battle and self-sacrifice. It also starts to suggest future storylines and a new cast that may start to pick up the reins. This for me firmly ends the first three books excellently but I’ll be more than happy to return to this world once again.

The Land of the Living and The Dead cements Shauna Lawless as one of our most interesting fantasy writers around creating a great mix of history and myth to create a fascinating world and bringing it to life with style plus an array of complex characters who even their darker acts make you still understand them (and for Gormflaith perhaps admire them). I strongly recommend this to fans of the previous books and this is a series if you enjoy historical fantasy you should be picking up quickly!

After being impressed by the second book in this series, I went into this with moderately high expectations. The set up was full of mystery and suspense, with the main villian having achieved the power she sought, with plans to orchestrate all out war and take over Ireland.
As soon as Living and the Dead started, it meandered through all these set ups, losing all its momentum. Then it turned into a bit of a slog, in my opinion. Nothing was left in suspense, nothing felt exciting. Every move and counter move by each main character and its sides were laid out plainly and simply, with no guessing as to the outcomes. The ending was logical, and made me feel so little, because it lost the emotional weight through 500 pages of exposition.
Still glad I read this series, but man I’m glad that’s over.

The Land of the Living and the Dead is the third and final installment in Shauna Lawless’s Gael Song trilogy. Following on from the events of The Words of Kings and Prophets, we find Ireland on the brink of war. Gormflaith is determined to beat the Descendants and see her son crowned High King of Ireland. Meanwhile, Fódla does everything she can to protect her nephew from the Fomorian leader Tomas. Tomas wants nothing to see the Descendants ruling the world and will stop at nothing to achieve his aims, but as war continues to brew, who will be victorious?

I have thoroughly enjoyed each installment in this series and The Land of the Living and the Dead was no exception. Lawless has crafted such a compelling tale and I was completely swept along in this story. This final book felt quite quick paced, and there is tons of action. There is lots of scheming and political intrigue and Lawless definitely gave us a few twists that I wasn’t expecting. The story comes to a satisfying conclusion, though I must say the ending was not what I expected (in a good way). The ending has definitely made me excited to see what Lawless is going to write next.

Where this story really shines is the brilliantly vivid characters. I’ve grown really attached to the characters in this series and I really like them all. Fódla is a great protagonist, standing up for what is right, protecting those she loves, and doing her best to support the Descendants. As much as I enjoyed Fódla’s POV my favourite had to be Gormflaith. She is so clever and cunning, she is completely ruthless and she will do anything to get what she wants. I loved watching her plot and scheme to achieve her aims, she has a really strong narrative voice and I thought she was an exceptional character, and I think I could read another ten books with her as the main character.

Overall this is an incredibly well plotted historical fantasy series, full of beautiful writing, captivating characters, and a gripping premise. If you’re looking for a series that is rich in detail and will keep you engrossed right to the very last page, this is definitely a series you need to add to your TBR.

Rating: Loved It, 4.5 stars

The Land of the Living and the Dead is the third full-length novel in Shauna Lawless' Gael Song series. I put this one off for a little while after it came out so that I could be in the right head space, and I'm glad I did! This was excellent, but definitely doesn't feel like an end point, so I'm very glad that the series will be continuing!

Overall, I really love this world and the characters within it. Fódla is just the best. I root for her and just want her to be happy. Gormflaith is the worst, but she's a well fleshed out villain who is cunning, and even though I despise her, I can appreciate her as a character. I also love Broccan and Murchad, and Colmon. Honesty all I wanted was joy for them all, even though I went in expecting tragedy.

I didn't have any true complaints, but I think the reason that it wasn't 5 stars was two reasons. This one felt a little more plot-driven than the first two. I think part of that is because the character development was so well-established in the first two. This meant that the story moved a lot faster than I was expecting or ready for. I feel like I didn't have the chance to sit in some of the big moments because things were moving so quickly, so the emotional impact was not as big as it could have been. It also felt a little bit choppy or stilted in some places.

However, it ultimately didn't take away from my overall enjoyment of the story. I think that this was a great installment that sets it up for the next book. I am really curious though what will happen in the next one with the way that this one ended.

Also the author's note blew my mind that the history part of all of the story was basically all true and she just infused the magic into the history. I thought that was incredibly well done.

Overall, I really love this series and highly recommend it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for an eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own. The Land of the Living and the Dead released on September 17, 2024 and is out in the wild now.

Shauna Lawless delivers another immersive journey with the third installment of her Gael Song series. In The Land of the Living and the Dead, she masterfully blends ancient myth with modern emotions, drawing readers into a world where the veil between life and death is as thin as it is treacherous.

The novel’s greatest strength lies in its vivid world-building. Lawless paints a rich tapestry of lore and landscapes, inviting fans of the series to delve deeper into its mystical realms while enticing new readers with its enchanting narrative. Her detailed descriptions and intricate mythology create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and immediate.

The characters are complex and compelling, each carrying their own burdens and secrets. Their personal journeys interweave seamlessly with the broader, haunting narrative, making every twist and turn feel significant. However, at times, the abundance of lore can slow the pace, leaving the narrative feeling a bit weighed down during moments of excessive exposition.

Despite these minor pacing issues, The Land of the Living and the Dead remains a captivating read. It skillfully balances emotion with mystery and myth, promising more thrilling adventures in the series’ future. A delightful addition to the Gael Song saga, this book earns a well-deserved four stars.

Set in medieval Ireland, where druids and witches never mix with the mortals they live along side.
Amongst the mortals, King Brian's kingdom is not safe and his rule threatened, especially from his own queen, who herself is one of the magic folk. She must face war on both sides. Firstly to remove power from Brian, and secondly to destroy the rivals of her own magical people's, The Fomorians.

Fabulous exciting historical fantasy third in the Gael Song series. I found I was a little lost as this was the first book I had come across, left me wishing I had read the others in the series.
Suse

An amazing end to a wonderful trilogy. This book wrapped things up well while still leaving things open-ended enough that we'll be able to get more books set in this world. I maintain that Lawless has achieved the perfect balance of magic and politics. This type of historical fiction lends itself so well to a magic system, so much so that at times it's hard to remember that magic wasn't actual real during this time. It just *feels* like it should have been! The characters in this series are so well-written, and I love how Lawless unabashedly made Gormflaith absolutely unhinged. It was so easy to hate her, but at the same time I found her so compelling. Fodla was a great foil to her, and I loved her so much. Overall, this book really nailed the landing and I am so looking forward to more Gael Song books!

Thank you to Head of Zeus and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

The Land of the Living and the Dead by Shauna Lawless is a gripping journey through a vividly crafted world of mysticism and battle. Lawless masterfully intertwines historical fantasy with rich character development, making it easy to get lost in her storytelling.

The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The intricate blend of folklore and historical elements adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. The characters are compelling, each with their own distinct voices and arcs that draw you in.

I definitely had my preffered POVs but overall I fully believe that this is the strongest book of the series.

Though the pacing could be more even at times, the immersive world-building and the emotional weight of the characters' journeys make up for it. Overall, this novel offers an enchanting escape and a captivating read.

Shauna Lawless’s The Land of the Living and the Dead is a captivating continuation of her Irish mythology-inspired series, weaving historical fiction with mythic storytelling. Set in 10th-century Ireland, the novel masterfully combines the gritty realities of Viking invasions and clan rivalries with the mystical allure of ancient gods and supernatural forces.

Lawless’s meticulous attention to historical detail brings the era vividly to life, while her deft characterization ensures readers remain emotionally invested in every twist and turn. The interplay between loyalty, ambition, and the clash of mortal and divine stakes makes for a story that is both compelling and thought-provoking.

With its richly imagined world and a plot that balances action, intrigue, and emotional depth, The Land of the Living and the Dead solidifies Lawless’s reputation as a rising star in historical fantasy. Perfect for readers who enjoy richly layered narratives where history and mythology collide.

Omg, it's such a perfect ending to an amazing series.
And the last couple of pages just tore my heart out.

I love this series so much. I will say - I absolutely loved the novellas, and while they're not *truly* necessary to complete this trilogy, they make the trilogy SO much more satisfying.

The Gael Song trilogy is so great for so many reasons. While I know that these types of immortals were not created by Shauna herself, she has really brought them and their dynamics to life. This book has the intrigue of politics without feeling overwhelmingly so, and enough action happens that it doesn't just feel like people having political conversations over war tables. I am obsessed with Fodla and I love to hate Gormflaith, as any reader of this series will. This series will be unsatisfying for those who want their series tied up with a bow at the end, but that's half the fun! Cannot wait to read more from Shauna.

Thank you to Head of Zeus and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Incredibly satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. Shauna was very gracious to answer some questions for me for a social media post I did for my store, and I've been a devoted follower of her work from Book 1. Do yourself a favour and go read the novellas and whatever you can get your hands on.

The Land of the Living and the Dead is the final installment in the first trilogy of the Gael Song series. I loved the first two books, and this book did not disappoint. The story picks up several years after the events in the second book. As with the first books mythology is expertly woven into the story which is beautiful, engaging, and heartbreaking. Gormflaith continues to manipulate and scheme to maintain and build power for herself and the Formorians. Fódla continues to be an empathetic and strong (with a strength that is so opposite of Gormflaith's). There is love and betrayal, happiness and heartbreak. Readers learn more about the internal Irish conflicts and the fate of Brian Buru's kingdom while seeing the conflict between the Formorians and Tuatha Dé Danaan grow . This story is filled with love and betrayal, success and failure, happiness and heartbreak. This was a beautiful conclusion to this first trilogy, and I can't wait to read whatever Shauna Lawless writes next. Hopefully, I won't have to wait too long.

Thank you to Head of Zeus and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

ARGH!! That is the only thing to be said at the end of this trilogy!! How on earth such a fantasy twist on historical fiction gripped me and had me so invested in the battles and wars from almost a millennium ago I'm not sure but wow. There was more of the expected twists, turns, deceit, romance, betrayal and murder.

Unfortunately I wasn't able to enjoy this book at its fullest, because I didn't understood this was the third part of a saga.
Reading it while missing the previous volumes was not the best but at least I could enjoy a rich plot full of well detailed characters, energy and twist. Lawless' language is amazing, everything comes out from the page so vividly. And in spite of being a fantasy novel, the historic background is very accurate.

I've been a fan of Irish history for a long time, and I'm very fond of Brian Boru's times. But rarerly I've found a novel that could retell it so well.

There's only one thing I have to do now: read the first 2 chapters and then re-read this. And enjoy the whole Gael Song for real.

This book picks up many years after the last instalment. War is on the horizon, Gormflaith is still playing her game and is about to pull all her strings into place. Fódla and Broccan as well as Colmon have been in hiding but decide to come back once Broccan is fully grown.

This book delivered quite a different finale to what I expected. It was well executed in the build up but when it came to the final scenes things were left very ambiguous. I’m not sure how I feel about that. I would have likely preferred something more concrete, hence the lower rating to the other books in this trilogy.

I still really enjoyed this book for the most part. The pieces have been left in place for future stories. There are great character moments throughout, as well as all the political manoeuvring you could wish for and some great historical links and battles scenes. If you liked the other two books please pick this up. Despite my mixed feelings on the ending, I think this trilogy is well worth a read.

This read like a manual but also poetry idk weird. I still liked it. I just had to read it a bit slower than other things i read.

Thanks to Head of Zeus and Netgalley for the ARC.

I.....just........just.....what am I supposed to do now?? (other than cry) for goodness' sake Shauna!??!! I think I was in denial throughout this story that it was heading toward where it was heading at the end. HEAVY SIGH. The Gael Song series is just so marvelous, and I wish my words would do justice to what Shauna has accomplished with this trilogy and the novellas. The ability to bring this period of Irish history to life in these characters and to capture how turbulent at times the political situation was is an amazing talent. The addition of this battle between the Fomorians and the Descendants adds such a unique and heart wrenching element to the story as each side is so set on doing everything in their power to defend themselves. I am continually amazed at how Shauna crafted Gormflaith to be this antagonist that at moments you truly hate, but still understand why she is doing what she is. And Tomas......don't let me start on Tomas. The portrayal of the battle of Clontarf is gripping. This final book has a terrific blend of political maneuvering and action that just ups the tension and anxiety until that brutal and crushing ending that will take a long time to get over. This is a series that I cannot recommend enough, whether you want to focus on the historical figures or the fantastical elements, it will keep you glued to the pages. I am so glad that there will be more novellas and books to come in this battle between the Tuatha de Dannan and the Fomorians.

**Thank you for the ARC**

Firstly I'd like to apologise for taking so long to read this. Every time I picked it up I read a large chunk at a time and then put it down for too long. I put it down and left it because I didn't want the story to end! I've loved this series since book one, which I took home from the library because "ooo pretty cover page, and Vikings!"

Second, I don't think I've cried this much while reading a book.

This book is so good, and the series is easily in the top five I've read. I love Fodla and Gormflaith for very different reasons. Gormflaith will stop at nothing to get what she wants - she is terrifying and I love that for her. Fodla has a gentle kind of strength and is kind and generous, she goes through so much but still has love.

The supporting characters are well fleshed out and the ones who are to be liked are likable and the ones to be despised are despicable. Murchad might be my favourite. And I'm glad Tomas' story ended the way it did.

I knew very little about this period of Irish history. We don't learn much about it here in New Zealand, so it was interesting learning about it.

Again, I appreciated the pronunciation guide for the names.

I look forward to the next era of this series.