Two sentences into this book and I was already hooked by the storytelling. This book made me shed actual tears..
The worldbuilding is amazing, the characters are all fleshed out and the story is great.
For the first half of the book everything is really idyllic but you know something will happen so there is also this sense of doom that the author has you feeling. Which is skilfully done!
I also adored the little hints and not so little hints to myths and legends. I would have loved some more of that! But I get the feeling the next book will have it!
After that the story slows down a bit.
And then came that final part of the book. Those final chapters which made sure I need the next book.. now? Pretty please?

Ooh and I would love to read some more about Bran and Casey!

Let me preface this by saying: I'm not a huge fantasy reader. The premise of this story and the fact that it is steeped in folklore grabbed my attention and ran with it!

E.E. Star's writing is lyrical and beautiful, her descriptions paint a vivid picture in the reader's head, and her dialogue reads really nicely. It's evident throughout that she has done her research regarding the Gaelic language, as well as the folklore and fantasy elements. Including the glossary of terms and phrases used in the book makes for a more seamless read and keeps the reader from being left guessing. The story contains romance, fantasy elements, folk tales, twists and turns, adventure, and a sprinkling of spice.

Our FMC, Caitriona, is a multifaceted character. She's very strong and opinionated, yet at the same time has her moments of doubt and weakness, especially when certain aspects of her life start to change rapidly. She is young and confronted with massive life changes, one after another, and manages to maintain her composure through most of challenges thrown her way.

Our main MMC, Finn, is a big, gooey cinnamon roll of a man. He has been secretly pining for his friend's little sister for years, and will do everything in his power to protect her. He is loyal, sweet, and good in every sense, and the love that he has for Triona is the stuff of book boyfriend dreams.

Casey, Bran, and Callan are like a merry band of misfit sidekicks, and I love all of them. They are each loyal to Triona and to each other in their own ways, and the way that they band together when times get tough is the test of true friendship. Also worth noting is the relationship between Triona and her parents, James and Ellen. Though they're not perfect, I really enjoyed reading their interactions with each other, and the descriptions of Triona's idyllic childhood.

The book is on the longer end, but the journey is worth every word. I'm looking forward to continuing the series!