Kalie's Reviews > The Words of Kings and Prophets

Thank you so much Head of Zeus for ARC!

With The Words of Kings and Prophets, Shauna Lawless has proven herself of writing a dynamic, gripping and clearly well researched sequel that absolutely lives up to the incredible debut that was The Children of Gods and Fighting Men. As someone who lives in Ireland, loves historical fantasy and studied Irish history at uni, this book was like catnip. Unputdownable.

The story picks up not far after it’s predecessor and continues on with the dual POV of Gormflaith, the Fomorian new wife of legendary king Brian Boru who’s deep in her scheming, and Fódla, a Descendent healer still undercover at Brian’s court. With Shauna’s rich, descriptive prose we follow the two women as their individual goals grow closer and closer to crossing.

I really loved the deepening of characterisation in this instalment of the Gael Song series. With the first one, we were introduced to the two POVs and started to get a feeling for their goals and personalities, but with the sequel the reader got a wider view of how the two women’s stories effect the wider Ireland at the time. It really felt like the next step in what is proving to a be a masterful fantasy rendition of Irish history. I’m continually impressed by Shauna’s ability to stay true to history in a way that’s both accessible (read: not boring) and creates characters that are multi faceted and easy to relate to. Themes around family, both chosen and biological, individual ambition and making sacrifices for those you love are all explored throughout the narrative.

I really love the contrast between the two POVs. Gormflaith continues to be an excellent example of a morally grey character in the truest sense. She primarily works for her own benefit, and doesn’t hesitate to lever her sexuality and notions around her gender to suit her goals. While I found myself wishing for her downfall at points, especially when she sets her ruthless gaze on some of my favourite characters, I couldn’t help but love her as an MC. What can I say— I support women’s wrongs!

And Fódla… Oh, Fódla. I absolutely love her. She’s such an incredible, remarkably realistic portrayal of earnest love for her nephew, stoic commitment to her goals, and a soft heart. She’s a remarkably loyal and kind character and I love her for it. Also, like Fódla, I too am *slightly* obsessed with Murchad. What a man!

Overall, I can’t wait to see where the story goes and am absolutely obsessed with Shauna Lawless’ speculative take on tenth-century Irish history through the eyes of two dynamic, very different women. I’d highly recommend for fans of historical fantasy, especially when it’s through a feminist lens.