Product Description
The Pocket Library of Spiritual Wisdom is an exciting new book series of original contributions by Rudolf Steiner to human knowledge from metaphysical dimensions of reality normally hidden from everyday consciousness. With his philosophical and scientific training, Steiner brought a new systematic discipline to the field of spiritual research, as well as fully conscious methods and comprehensive results. These books highlight samples of his work with excerpts from his many talks and writings on some of the most fascinating themes in contemporary spiritual research. They are easy-to-read, accessible texts with helpful introductions, commentary, and notes.

Topics in this volume include:

The Sun Initiation of the Druid Priests and their Moon Science

The Mysteries of Ancient Ireland

Celtic Christianity - the Heritage of the Druids

Teachings of the Mysteries - the Spirit in Nature

The Great Mysteries - the Mystery of Christ

The Function of the Standing Stones

Spiritual Imaginations ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Great item
I really like it, good quality and the information of the product is very interesting.

Animals our friends
Animals are our friends. This kit of cards is not a divination one. Of course these could be used for divination, and actually there are explanations for each card. But substantially these cards are for healing, healing for conscienceness and soul and spirit. Watching the cards you can exchange dialogs with the animals. The animals on the cards are all alive. Especially the eyes of the animals are full of living energy. And there are four vertual animals among the cards, which are earth dragon, fire dragon, air dragon and water dragon. These dragons seem to be actual ones. Also among the animals I like "hind" best. These animals are our friends, I'm sure.

Wonderful Oracle Deck
This is a beautiful Animal Deck, connected deeply to nature with beautiful illustrations leading from one Animal to the next.
A great find!!

Blank cards?
Im an oracle fan, but blank cards? come on. How can someone unskilled can compare the artwork to a personal drawing?
It would never look the same and it would make the readings less objective.

Animal wisdom
Animals are good for people. As a nurse of more than 3 1/2 decades, I assert that animals are better for us than doctors. We are healthier when we associate with them and this has been proven by many studies. This deck of cards with its wonderful illustrations and lyrical descriptions in the accompanying book helps to focus the energy and wisdom of our fellow species. We would do well to listen to and honor them, and do all we can to learn from them. I have experienced some startling insights when working with the Druid Animal Oracle Deck. They are a simple but profound assist when we are seeking answers to life's inevitable questions. With continued practice and study, the insights become more personal and helpful. ... Read more

Product Description
Losing her virginity can mean ruin for a Victorian lady. For Raven Drake, it means freedom to explore her sexuality. As a magicker in hiding, Raven subscribes to her culture’s less prudish philosophy. She wants to experience every erotic sensation imaginable.

Malcolm, Lord Preston, desires her from the moment he sees her, and doesn’t allow society’s rules to stand in his way. More than happy to introduce Raven to the pleasures of sex, he doesn’t expect to fall in love with her.

Their tryst is a welcome distraction from witch hunters and political maneuverings. But can it overcome the weight of another man’s ring on her finger?

Full of mystery, murder, and magick, The Dark Desires of the Druids series will leave you breathless!
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

It was sooo good!
I got caught up in the goings on right away. I love historicals and the Victorian especially but this was a twist on the era and I went for the ride.

Raven Drake is the heroine and right in the beginning you learn she's having an affair while engage to another man. The girl is tortured throughout the story over what to do. I was totally involved with her plight. Recommend it highly. ... Read more

Product Description
A collection of archive and classic writings on the origins, development and revival of the druidic tradition. The text covers customs and practices, Celtic roots and modern interpretation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

One of my favorite authors
John and Caitlin Matthews are two more authors that I generally enjoy. I caught on to Celtic worship many years ago and for a long while they seemed the only non-Llywelyn published authors which were accessible. They both get kudos for being tireless translators and bringing to mainstream readership many older documents which we would not otherwise be able to read for ourselves.

The Druid Source Book is a compilation of Druid history, scholarship and commentary from a range of sources. It is especially treasured for the beginning section on the Druids in history, quoting many of the sources, Caesar and beyond, and their words. The book also contains a wealth of knowledge spanning the last two centuries or so from historians and practitioners alike. It is a very nice addition to any Druid shelf for this wealth of source material.

Great Compilation
Matthews does a wonderful job of pulling together different treatises throughout history on how the world has and does view Druidism.This is a very dry read, but is filled with great information.

excellent
I read a review where an individual stated that "this work was outdated'. Well the ancient druids certainly 'are' and here is a good collection of their history! It seems the more and more I readreviews of Matthews work I come across the complaint that its "dry history'. While this may be true there are also gems within the desert if one cares to look. Also all the books that I've ever read about "druid magic, techniques, shamanism etc...I have found to be worthless and just a dressed up version of wicca. The Encyclopedia of Celtic Wisdom is another example of fine writing and research. Once again we must remember this was"an oral tradition".

Good Collection
John Matthews is the editor of this book and has put a lot of work into collecting different material on the Druids.Some of the matterial used is difficult to find as it is out of print, or is an abridged form of larger writings.

It contains material from Caesar to Ross Nichols.Also, there is a list of further readings, and major Druid orders if your interested.

A Good Place to Start
The Druid Source Book is a fine gateway to information for those researching Celtic religions or starting a quest for a spiritual path.Unlike many books on the subject, the Source Book is a collection of writings, essays, and articles that relate to the religious practice, gods and myths of the celts.The writings are from several different points of view and time periods.The book is devided by chronological periods so you get not only the information the articles offer, but a historical reference on how this particular religious system was viewed at differtent times of history. This book is also helpful in that many of the passeges contained within are extremely hard to find and it is nice to have them collected in one volume(even if alot of them are not complete).I recomend this book to any person with an interest in celtic religions that want to go to the source information,rather than a regurgitation by someone else, and avoid contamination by others opinions. ... Read more

Product Description
"Mmm-mmm delicious! Roman certainly has a way with storytelling."--Love Romance Passion (5 stars)"A very intriguing story of Gypsies, murder, and a bonding love that will hold for all time." --Literary Nymphs (4.5 nymphs)"The characters are vividly drawn and the plot is very well crafted. This is the start of an extremely promising new series, and I am going to buy and read every single one of them." --Coffee Time Romance (4 cups)Losing her virginity can mean ruin for a Victorian lady. For Raven Drake, it means freedom to explore her sexuality. As a magicker in hiding, Raven subscribes to her culture?s less prudish philosophy. She wants to experience every erotic sensation imaginable.Malcolm, Lord Preston, desires her from the moment he sees her, and doesn?t allow society?s rules to stand in his way. More than happy to introduce Raven to the pleasures of sex, he doesn?t expect to fall in love with her.Their tryst is a welcome distraction from witch hunters and political maneuverings. But can it overcome the weight of another man?s ring on her finger?Full of mystery, murder, and magick, The Dark Desires of the Druids series will leave you breathless! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Dark Desires: The Tryst
I just finished reading the next story on my TBR pile, and I'm very pleased. "The Dark Desires of the Druids: The Tryst" by Isabel Roman is the prequel to Murder and Magic. Exactly what the title implies, the story is a steamy little rendezvous between Malcolm and Raven that is sure to have you running back for more. It's a great thing that this is part of a series. Otherwise, reading this delightfully erotic short story would be frustrating because it's so short.

If this prequel is any indication of the entertainment one can expect from the novels, look forward to an entertaining tale of naughty, magical Victorians.

"The Dark Desires of the Druids: The Tryst"
Prequel to Dark Desires of the Druids I: Murder & Magick
by Isabel Roman

* Publish Date: 2008-12-06
* ISBN:978-1-60777-120-3

Get the story at [...]

Very saucy, yet plenty of plot to satisfy the mind as well!!
I'll admit, this book is a bit more racy than I'm used to, although I found the more exciting scenes to be very well written and quite descriptive.

The storyline, however, is quite well thought-out, and I was so interested in the characters I was sad when the story ended (although there are several more installments in this series!)

The story is of a Druid Master,and her family and followers, who have survived through a "cleansing" of sorts to Victorian times, trying to maintain their right to exist against a man - with his own followers - who quite self-righteously believes that all Magickers are evil, abominations against his beliefs, and should therefore be irradicated.And even still, against this evil the Magickers are unwilling to take his life, believing that to be only in the last possible resort - that even someone so reprehensible in his hate has some right to exist.Can they coexist?Will he succeed in gaining political control and legalizing the extermination of these Magickers?

Overall I was quite impressed with the quality of the writing compared to some other "romance" novels I've read.I'm almost through with the second story in the series, and can't wait to finish the third.

In short, I was MOST satisfied, both with the expected racy scenes AND with the story, plotline, and characters.I felt genuine affection toward the Magicker family, and genuine distaste for the "bad guys". I'll probably read this book again (maybe a few scenes more than others. ;)) ... Read more

Product Description
Sometimes it's good to be guilty . . .

IT'S ALL FUN & GAMES

Dark, powerful, sexy Kane. He has many names, but in truth he is Robin Goodfellow, the one-time favored son of Oberon, King of Faery. For centuries he's worked his magic, seducing and pleasuring women as befits his puca nature. But Kane made one big mistake--punishing his brother for a crime he did not commit.

UNTIL SOMEBODY LOSES A GUY

Oh yeah, he also left Dr. Janelle Corrington after the most amazing night of her life. Their lovemaking was brief, intense...and a one-night stand. While she'd established what she thought was a soul connection that could occur only once in any lifetime, he was simply having sex. Why else would he have disappeared without a word? That's why the Druid circle's punishment for Kane's other crime is so delicious: for him to be Janelle's ward, to make amends to all he harmed, to take responsibility for his actions. Finally, Kane would have to take things seriously. And only true love would be rewarded.

The Druid Made Me Do It is the exciting sequel to Pandora's Box by Natale Stenzel! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

wacky amusing romp
Eight years ago Dr. Janelle Corrington met Kane.They had a heated one night stand and she suddenly believed in love at first sight as she thought she finally met her soulmate until he suddenly vanished in the morning.

However, Kane recently committed a bad error in judgment; for that misdeed Faerie King Oberon punishes his once favorite son who he knows as Robin Goodfellow, magical seducer of women.He names Janelle as his guardian while she is also granted special mental healing skills to compensate for her time.Kane's punishment besides having to bow to a woman is to atone for his sins with all his victims.To his shock, Kane, who has always been a 4F kind of guy falls in love with Janelle; but he sadly knows they have no future together.

The sequel to PANDORA'S BOX is as wacky as that tale was as Robin makes a return engagement, which means Janelle is in for plenty of "Pandemina".The amusing story line is fun to follow as the lead couple has plenty of tsuris especially with their apparent no future together.Fans of romantic fantasy will appreciate THE DRUID MADE ME DO IT as Robin Goodfellow learns a lesson about the real magic of love.

Harriet Klausner
... Read more

Product Description
"The ancient Celts capture the modern imagination as do few other people of classical times. Naked barbarians charging the Roman legions, Druids performing sacrifices of unspeakable horror, women fighting beside their men and even leading armies--these, along with stunning works of art, are the images most of us call to mind when we think of the Celts," observes Philip Freeman. "And for the most part, these images are firmly based in the descriptions handed down to us by the Greek and Roman writers." This book draws on the firsthand observations and early accounts of classical writers to piece together a detailed portrait of the ancient Celtic peoples of Europe and the British Isles. Philip Freeman groups the selections (ranging from short statements to longer treatises) by themes--war, feasting, poetry, religion, women, and the Western Isles. He also presents inscriptions written by the ancient Celts themselves. This wealth of material, introduced and translated by Freeman to be especially accessible to students and general readers, makes this book essential reading for everyone fascinated by the ancient Celts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Pricey, short but very informative
At 99 pages and $35US (at time of review), the book doesnt come cheap. Thats the negative.

However if you are seeking quality over quantity and want a work where the bulk of the information is drawn from first hand accounts, as opposed to suppositions and conjectures by present day historicans then this is a fine work.

Chapter names are: (1) War (2) Feasting (3) Poetry (4) Religion (5) The Western Isles (6) The Ancient Celts Speak. The first 5 are self explanatory but the last is less so. The last chapter is basically overturning the old view that Druids left no written records due to their forbading any sacred text as well as the notion that Classical Celts were illiterate. Through inscriptions carved into stone or tablets of various material the author conveys some interesting points about Celtic life and practices, particuarly superstition and religion.

Its full of little gems, such as first hand accounts of human sacrifice. Usually a poor criminal was chosen. The unlucky person could be kept imprisoned for 5 years before being impaled on a pole in honor of the gods. If that wasnt enough of an indignity he/she was then tossed onto a bonfire. Then there was the Celtic habit of proudly displaying the severed heads of tribal foes in their Gallic homes that was only brought to an end by Roman rule. If that doesnt wet the appetite you get to learn about funeral rites where once tradition dictated even beloved subordinates of the deceased may be thrown into the fire to appease the Gods (hence unpopularity and a high rank were truly worthy attributes to aspire to). It was also a requirement at council meetings that a bard be present for it appears that only the soothing music of bard could keep tempers under control. As one turns the pages, so much more one learns that both shocks and enlightens the senses.

All up these images of Celtic culture above are probably not ones that readily come to mind. But they are just as much a part of Celtic society as the admirable art and craft works, peaceful images of druids wandering around prosperous villages or warriors just fending off enemies.

All up, it makes for a nice informative and lucid read about all facets of Celtic life from across the regions of Gaul, Britian and Ireland. Now if only they could make is more accessible by significantly lowering the price to match the size - it would be just perfect.

A great source for Celtic history
Has all the major ancient sources on the Celts translated into easily readable English. ... Read more

Product Description
In one town entirely populated by lovely ladies, Longarm will do his duty. But then he'll have to do his job. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

These Druids are a long way and a long time from Old Ireland.
This September 2002 of the Longarm Series finds Longarm in the North Central part of Wyoming trying to figure out what is going on with aUS Post Office located within a real strange community of Druids;all women,no less.
It is a well constructed yarn with lots of interesting characters and goings on,that just don't make any sense to the Deputy Marshal.
This one is a real page-turner and keeps the reader wondering what's coming next.
I don't think Longarm has been more bewildered with a frontier community since he got mixed up with a bunch of renegade Mormons in Utah,way back in Episode 3 in December 1978.
Longarm keeps his nose to the grindstone and is determined to unravel this quandry.
A great read and certainly a new experience for our hero. ... Read more

Product Description

This volume explores all facets of Druidic life and religious practice: their beginnings in the first centuries B.C. in Gaul and Britain, their priests and religious rites, their temples and probable origins. Useful illustrations and an appendix of original Greek and Latin texts relating to the Druids are included.

Customer Reviews (1)

wide-ranging archaeological study of bases of Druidism
Kendrick's scholarly historical, anthropological, and archaeological study of the Druids and subjects necessarily related to them for an accurate understanding of them--which is to some extent a contingent understanding--was first published in the latter 1920s. He makes no attempt to popularize the Druids, as has been done by so many recent authors of New Age bent singling out the Druids as exemplary models of nature worship. Today, the Druids are popularly identified with ancient Ireland, adding to their mystique by the suggestion that their spirituality remained pure by being so distant from continental Europe and apart from the British Isles. But Kendrick is not swayed at all by popular beliefs or even more solid presumptions about the Druids found among some scholars. "It seems likely, however, that the druidic caste in Ireland was never anything but a very faint reflection of the Gallic system, and one that speedily became isolated and degenerate." In discussing the subjects of Druidic religion and their temples, including the intriguing stone monuments found in England and also places in Europe, he stays in touch with the archaeological evidence complemented by surviving written documents. In trying to answer the question about the pacific nature of a society figuring into the origins of the Druids, he points out that farming tools found in ancient burial sites far outnumber weapons. But he also notes that this is not conclusive, and makes the point that the proportion changes if one regards a certain kind of ax as a weapon. Kendrick's main purpose for the book was "to provide a complete and well-documented summary of the whole of the pertinent material upon which a study of this subject should be properly based." Kendrick's achievement, then, is to lay out the grounds for study of the Druids, not search doggedly for any conclusions or paint a picture rooted in his own spiritual yearnings and romanticism. The author lays this ground out in the broad topic areas of Tradition, Prehistory, History, Religion, Temples, and Origins, with an appendix of passages from Greek and Roman texts in their original languages. Otherpassages from Greek and Roman writings are quoted in English in the main text. Fifty-one illustrations and maps are mixed in with the chapters. No matter what one's beliefs about the Druids, Kendrick's wide-ranging, authoritative study is a fascinating study of ancient European culture and history.
... Read more

Product Description
Book Description:

"Like Lockyer's Stonehenge and Other British Stone Monuments Astronomically Considered, William Stukeley's 1740 study of Stonehenge stands out among the huge number of books on the subject. Stukeley was a pioneer preservationist. He lamented the callous treatment of the majestic ruins both by tourists and landholders. He coined the term 'trilithon' for the doorway-like arrangement of three stones, now common in the literature about megalithic architecture. Stukeley was one of the first to make accurate drawings of the site. The three dozen illustrations to this book, which show Stonehenge from every angle and document its context in the 18th century landscape, are still used today by scholars. He also did some rudimentary archeology, and describes opening the grave of a warrior princess.

Stukeley's Stonehenge was intended to be the first volume in a comprehensive study of universal history, which he never completed. He believed a pure form of Christianity was the original religion of mankind, which had been subverted by idolatry, and finally restored by Jesus. Stonehenge was a temple of this primordial patriarchial religion, built by immigrants from the Near East, possibly Phoenicians. They became the progenitors of the Celts, founded the Druid religion and built the mysterious standing stones. (Today scholars believe that Stonehenge was constructed by an indigenous, pre-Celtic, pre-Druid culture).

It is remarkable that two centuries later Lockyer also propounded a theory that Stonehenge was built by immigrants from the Near East. Also of note is Stukeley's discovery of vast linear features in the vicinity of Stonehenge. This of course anticipated Watkins' ley lines. He points out one case where these lines have Roman roads constructed over them, indicating that they could not be Roman in origin. He describes a huge oval track in the landscape, which he hypothesized was an ancient horse race course! Stukeley also proposed that the builders of Stonehenge used a standard measurement, anticipating the 'Megalithic yard' which was suggested in 1955 by Alexander Thom.

Stukeley was adamant that Stonehenge was pre-Roman (a view held by some at the time). He believed that it was constructed about 460 B.C. (currently it is believed that it dates back as far as 3000 B.C.) He arrived at this date by assuming that the builders had a knowledge of the compass, and by extrapolating variations in magnetic north, which he incorrectly assumed occillated in a regular pattern (today we know that the magnetic North pole moves somewhat at random). However, this was one of the first attempts to associate the alignment of the monument with some natural phenomena, and to use it to date the structure." (Quote from sacred-texts.com)

Table of Contents:

Publisher's Preface; Dedication; Preface; Chapter I.; Chapter ii.; Chapter iii.; Chapter iv.; Chapter V.; Chapter vi.; Chapter vii.; Chapter viii.; Chapter ix.; Chapter X.; Chapter xi.; Chapter xii.

About the Publisher:

Forgotten Books is a publisher of historical writings, such as: Philosophy, Classics, Science, Religion, Esoteric and Mythology. www.forgottenbooks.org

Forgotten Books is about sharing information, not about making money. All books are priced at wholesale prices. We are also the only publisher we know of to print in large sans-serif font, which is proven to make the text easier to read and put less strain on your eyes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

A Priest
A druid is a priest of a specific denomination. They get one hit point per level and it only goes up to level 15. I'd rather be a wizard.

Absolutely get this book
This book is a MUST for your D&D collection. This book allows you to play druids that are specialized for swamps, jungles, deserts, polar, and forest climes; no single catch-all druid abilities. The kits are also wonderful and will be excellent sources for new 3e prestige classes. Want ideas for your druids in your campaign? This book gives it to you in spades. DEFINITELY go find this book.

A Worthwhile Purchase
Even if you've moved on to 3rd Edition D&D, this is an excellent purchase for those needing more info/ideas about druids. The book has several useful sections.

One is on branch portraits, so you can play a mountain, desert, arctic, underground, swamp, or jungle druid instead of a forest one. Then there is a section on 'kits,' specializations for druid characters.

A chapter on druidic society, organization, and philosophy can be useful in defining druid characters. What is especially nice is a collection of new spells and magic items which are appropriate for druid use. What is especially nice and an interesting twist is a section on herbal magic, if your character is interested in harvesting herbs and brewing potions.

The handbook also provides information about sacred groves and gives some plot outlines for druid-centered campaigns. This book increases the possibilities of playing druid characters tenfold.

If you play a druid character and would like some great supplementary information, try to get your hands on one of these.

Good for druid campains.... but only druid campains
This Book contains good information on playing druids, the singlehardestclass to roleplay(including paladins). It also has info on druidorganization that the "Players Handbook" didn't havespacefor.

so why only 1 star? because it's so impossible to play a charactorwith a true neutral alignment right if your fellow players aren't trueneutral as well. Sooner or later your druids' allieswill(inadvertantly)force you to change alignment, ending your charactors'career.

If you're a DM who wants to run an all-druid campain, get thisbook. otherwise, forget its existance.

One of the best handbooks I have read.
This is definitely one of TSR's best works.The role of the Druid is broadened with this book.Very useful for those who like to play Druid's but get tired of the saem character over and over again. ... Read more

Product Description
In a blinding flash of light five nondescript strangers are yanked from this world and thrust into a land of sorcery. Explore magic anew as ArchMage Reba, Jamison the MasterHealer, Jerik the Dwarf, Charles the Prince Charming and Allinon the Druid Elf blend twentieth century technology with the supernatural powers of this new world. Will this band of wannabe heroes embrace the abilities granted them and unite to liberate the Kingdom of Cuthburan from the malevolence threatening to enslave humanity. Will the Crusader of the Light fulfill the Prophecy of the Flame or flee back to the safe certainty of the lives they know? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Lives up to the promises
The author, Lynn Hardy, passes out flyers as a way of greeting customers where she is conducting a book signing.These flyers boldly state:

"I was up till 2 am, I couldn't put it down...." Yivi M., Toronto Canada

"Love's Dawning makes the realm of magic fascinating to someone who's never read a fantasy novel." Jane F., Durrant, OK

"Prophecy of the Flame brings you back to the wonderment of childhood when you first believed that magic really existed." Jarod G., CA

"This story embodies every RPG player's fantasy." J.R., Chantilly VA

"An extremely well written story."
Gloria: an independent editor in Oakton, VA

After reading Prophecy of the Flame: Love's Dawning I agree whole-heartedly with all these statements.

Here is the simple premise:

Five average Americans are snatched from modern day America and thrown into a world of magic.These nondescript strangers are given the powers and abilities they where pretending to have.The main character is Rebecca who becomes the ArchMage Reba.

Yes, this theme has been done a few times before, but never like this.Lynn writes in a first person PRESENT voice that drew me in right away.I believe the reason First Person works so well for Prophecy of the Flame is that Reba has an empathetic ability.This allows an occasional glimpse into the motives of those around her, while maintaining a first person aspect.

Not only are the Crusaders of the Light endeavoring to save the world, but Reba also struggles to remain true to her wedding vows.

This is a true Fairy Tale for adults, complete with two princes:

Alexandros: Crown Prince in line for the throne believes he must wed or at least bed the ArchMage in order to fulfill the Prophecy of the Flame.

Szames: Younger brother of Prince Alexandros befriends Reba, and quickly falls in love with the fiery heroine.

Negatives:

There could be more hurtles for the heroine.Also, like Eragon, this book is the first of a series and leaves you wanting more.I hate waiting for the next book!

I have given this book five stars:

It is fast paced, a real page-turner, well written and ties every aspect nicely put together.There are a few too many typos, but I noticed it was cleaned up in the next edition.Being a self-published book I will let those slide.

Great book!
I can understand why this last edition doesn't have "Love's Dawning" on the cover as a subtitle. I must say, I was not sure about this book because of the cover: "Love's Dawning" kind of made me think it might be to romancy for me. I'm okay with a little romance, but I'm not a romance kind of guy.

The relationships in this book are a full part of the story, that is true, but it wasn't overbearing. It was really necessary to the plot and added a great deal to it.

Also the writing style really draws you into the story. It kind of reminds me of Modesitt's books: The Magic of Recluce (Recluce series, Book 1). I can't wait for the next book! (I hear it's due out anytime now.) ... Read more

Product Description
"A well researched and readable account of the survival of various aspects of the culture which once dominated much of Europe."--Irish Press ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

If this is "scholarly," the world's in a sad state.
If this was written in the 1920s, I could understand it. But 1993? Well, basically, don't take a book seriously if it uses "The Golden Bough" as support. Or Loomis and Tolstoy, for that matter. It's not that they didn't contribute some important things, but that was 70 years before this book was written, and let's just say scholarship has gone beyond them.

This is a book that actually suggests that the incident of the Joy of the Court in the Erec and Enid tales is evidence of a secret, druidic cult which, naturally, is linked to the Knights Templar. Apparently, the "inexplicable" Joy of the Court is code put in by Chretien de Troyes because...well, Rutherford doesn't really say why. Royal connections to witchcraft, maybe. Now that's some cracking good literary analysis right there. I had just thought it was to illustrate retroactively why Erec and Enide should not stay isolated, but no. Vast underground conspiracy for unknown purposes.

He works way too hard to come up with these bizarre, tortured arguments, and never really bothers to explain them. One of my favorite passages is "Bran is not only defeated, he has been wounded with a poisoned spear. Though, according to the text, this was in the foot, it was more probably in the testicles." I know last time my boyfriend was wounded in the testicles he totally thought it was his foot. Seriously, what? The author wants him to be the Fisher King so he magically is? Is this in a hypothetical earlier version, or is Rutherford arguing that the REAL Bran was wounded in the testicles? I'd look to the text for the answer, but dang it, it's just not there.

This book has all the coherence and scholarship of a manifesto found in the basement of a spree shooter, and a little more paranoia. Don't waste your money on it. If you want to read about the Celts, try some Berresford Ellis or Tymczko.

Poor use of ancient texts - Distortion of historical events!
One more anti-Hellenic (in it's elements) effort to idealize something beautiful, yet not perfect of a cultural phenomenon. Though i study Keltic civilization, Druidry and history for some 20 years, I can also read ancient texts from the original (MSc). Mr Rutherford obviously loves his forefathers and their culture, but instead of describing the REAL events he constantly compares to the Greeks; and he does so in a very unjust and awkward manner. For example, he starts by accounting the Keltic raid to Greece (Aellas) in 279 B.C. He exagerates the Kelts battling efficiency on the specific incidence and when he refers to their defeat he attributes it to the fact that they were not used in fighting in Winter conditions!!! ... And he finishes the book bynoting "the Celts sojourn in Delfi was brief, but they had the last laugh" (p. 208)!
Here too one can witness this all the more to encounter tactic of downplaying the role and status of Ancient Greece in order to raise the one of another. Cyril Mango did it, Peter Kingsley did it, so why not? But in order to do so you have to have support from the texts and, like Mr Rutherford, all these gentlemen lack it. ...visit the actual place of the last battle at Kokkalia ('bones', archaeological site) that took it's name by the fact that the Kelts were all killed to the last and even today you can see the glimmering of phosphorus at night. [By the way, it is Kelts, not Celts, since in the texts they are first referred to -by the Greeks again- as 'Keltoi'. Or AT LAST, has anybody ever thought that Ogmios and Ogham take their name from ancient Greek 'ogmos' and 'ogmevo' which means 'furrow', 'score' or 'slash'?]
By all the above do not get me wrong: the Kelts i esteem high, their contribution to the history of the world i see in the brightest colors, but since i know the texts i cannot accept distortion and downplay. One should be able to fly by his own wings and not having to steal the wings of others. The Kelts they do not need to be compared for one to see their glory. Eventually, we should recognize the value of all in their proper background. After all, Greeks and Kelts they have a lot in common, as R. Graves or L. Spence have it.
Finally, it could be a good read, if you don't mind the truth.

Excellent history without being dry!
This book is a good read and gives wonderful background information on the Celts and Druids.One of the first books I have read that actually gives more history on where the Celts came from and how they impacted others.

Excellent, scholarly, eminently readable
Apart from one or two obvious publisher (rather than author) errors (like AD for an obvious BCE date) I could rarely find fault with this volume. For a short, readable, well-organised book on the Druids and their effects upon Celtic, Greek and Roman civilisations, this is hard to beat ... Read more

Product Description
During the closing years of Druid power in Roman-occupied Cambria, a powerful Druid takes a young girl for training. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Fantastic Read
Copied from Amazon.co.uk

Fantastic Read, 24 Sep 2010
ByLibbyshu

This review is from: The Last Druid (Paperback)
A powerful gripping novel set in Roman occupied Wales.The story follows the early life of Ninian a young girl taken from her village in Wales in order to train to become a druid. P.L. Crompton's vivid descriptions coupled with exciting events make compelling reading leading to a totally unexpected conclusion.
I can thoroughly recommend it. ... Read more

Product Description
In the final volume of this trilogy, the Kendrick family continues to rule the Moonshae Isles, but the era of peace is threatened by unseen forces. By the author of Darkwalker on Moonshae. Original. 100,000 first printing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

help me find a copy of this book please
I have read the Moonshae trilogy by douglas niles and thought it was a brilliant trilogy. then read the first 2 books in the druidholme trilogy and found this an even more interesting set of books that I just could not put down once I started reading them.But for about 2 years now I have been trying to get the druid queen but have not had any look getting it anywhere if you can help me can u e-mail me at mage@scottsmail.com

Waiting for reprint
Well I have read the first trilogy and also the first two books in thedruid home trilogy and am now waiting for Druid Queen and Ill be Happy

Adventure and romance.
Although I enjoyed the Moonshae Trilogy, I have to say that the Druidhome Trilogy is much better.I read all three books in two days, and I was wishing they were longer. Unlike other Forgotten Realms authors (mostnotably Ed Greenwood), Douglas Niles definitely has a well-developed plot,with a clear conflict that leads to a logical conclusion.Although thestory itself is quite good, that wasn't really what kept me reading intothe small hours of the night. Actually, it was the romance part ofit--something which gets neglected in many other TSR novels. I found myselfdying to know who Alicia would choose.All of the characters are extremelylikeable (except maybe Deirdre), and I was happy to see that Newt, thefairy dragon returns in this trilogy. I highly suggest this trilogy toanyone who is a fan of the Forgotten Realms setting, and especially tothose of us who wish the authors would pay more attention to developinglove between their characters.

The Druid Queen
This is another fine book from Douglas. I'm at chapter 12 at the time beeing, and High King Tristian Kendrick finds himself (and the faerie dragon Newt) facing an army of Trolls and firbolgs all alone. It'scompelling - have to finish this one tonight...

Anybody out there,willing to sell "Moonshae - Special Module FR2; by DouglasNiles"?

Waiting for the reprint
I have read the first trilogy ( The Moonshae Trilogy) and have gotten the first two in this trilogy but can't seem to find the last in the series. I am a serious collector and the books of the forgotten realms are my target.I have 42 in 1 time read condition and hope to complete the collection. Irealize that it's going to be hard since TSR was bought out but any onethat can direct me to a "source".....gimmee, gimmee, gimmee ... Read more

Product Description
King Arthur would get advice from his magician, Merlin, in the mythic stories. The real Arthur (who lived over 500 years before the period of the mythic Arthur) was trained by a Druid bard and poet named Merlyn. The result was an unprecedented period of peace that lasted for twenty years.
In Douglas Monroe's The 21 Lessons of Merlyn, you'll read delightful stories based on the historic Arthur and Merlyn. Each one is followed by lessons based on the never-before-published 16th century manuscript entitled The Book of Pheryllt. In a metaphoric sense, you'll see how Arthur learned his lessons. In a practical sense, you be learning the same sort of lessons that Arthur may have learned.
This is truly a complete course in authentic Celtic Druidism and magick. Filled with lore, philosophy, wisdom, rituals, and more, you'll be able to apply many of these concepts to improve your life.
If you are looking for accurate information, this is the place to start! Douglas Monroe has studied magick since he was ten years old and has taught in the United States, Britain, and South America, and is the founder of the New Forest Centre for Magickal Studies. His own illustrations and charts fill the book and clarify the deep teachings of the ancient Druids.
From learning about Stonehenge to the Rite of the 3 Rays for protective purification; from learning the four herbs that will aid in conserving male sexual energy to discovering the secrets of calling the Dragon (the power of the ley lines); this book is like a full course meal in a cafeteria of magick.
If you are really interested in gaining a thorough understanding of the real tradition of the Druids — what they believed, what they practiced and how to incorporate it into your life — then join with 120,000 other people. Get this book today!


... Read more

Customer Reviews (178)

21 lessons of Merlin is WONDERFUL !
The 21 Lessons of Merlin was the first book I had ever bought and that was about 20 years ago! And I must say that it is the only book that stays on my coffee table while my other magical books are in my office, and I have many books! It IS that wonderful!
If you don't read it for the magick, then read it for the psychology and look inside yourself for the answers that Merlin presented to Arthur for they are there with in you as well.
This is a book well worth your time and I highly recommend it for the beginner and a 3rd !
This book will teach you that everything you want, you already have with in you! Just don't be afraid to look and you will find something wonderful :-)

To Embody these teachings, read love and live
This book really gave me what I was looking for, the magic of understanding thru living out the book.I really felt each week as I read the chapter, because maybe I was very willing to experience what this book was trying to send out.For those that are serious and love the enchantment of ole time recipes of nature.Loved it, 4 of my friends have bought this book because of my ravings of it!!

Merlyn brought to you by Mescaline ?
Why do people get so upset about Douglas Monroe and his three books?

Simply he sells lies as truth. Druids at least mythically were to be "the truth against the world".

The Book of Pheryllt is a non existent text.It translates from Cymric to the Book of Virgil. Who I seem to remember was not a Druid. The various times Douglas Monroe has tried to offer proof over this, the pages he brings appear very similar to some pages stolen from an early edition of Edward Williams, better known by his bardic name Iolo Morganwg. I will not get into how I feel about Mr Williams works here.

Mr Monroe not only lies about where he gets his ideas from (what would be wrong with it came to me in a fit of Awen??) he has some rather strange ideas. His "druids prayer" seems to be taken right out of the movie Excalabur and a Cymric speaking friend of mine says that both the movie and Monroes version make no sense, not even in a magical way. In one part of the book "Merlyn" asks "Authur" to bring him Pumpkin soup, garnished with Pumpkin blossom. This would be on Smahain night. That is a mighty stong bit of magic for a young man who is going to be king, not magician to perform. He's going to have to both teleport to the new world, then time travel from late Autum to spring. The Pumpkin is not native to the British Isles and did not enter European diet till the new world was discovered (rediscovered actually) by Columbus. Add to that, to make pumkin soup one needs a ripe gourd, one is not going to have many blossoms around if the pumpkin is ripe. Next Monroe talks about a male magician never ever being with a woman as they are spiders who suck your energy (oooo kinky) right out of you. Then talks about the most beautiful relationship being between a male student and his male mentor. Given a certain legal action agaings Monroe when he was still a teacher, I find this very suspect.

Lastly. Douglas founded a Druidic school in Mexico. Mexico? Yeah a place known for it's Druids.

Friends don't let friends read Monroe.

Good read
A lot of information to process ,but seems to be interesting enough to read all the way through. Their are a lot of valid lessons if your one of those who wish to see the bigger picture so to speak.

Cool Story For What It's Worth!!
I do not profess to know anything about druidry or its principles, but I did enjoy this book as a good story about young Arthur and Merlyn from a different perspective than other books I've read about Arthurian legend. I don't know if any of it is accurate historically, but I did enjoy the story for what it's worth. ... Read more

Product Description
In "Stations of the Sun" and "The Triumph of the Moon", Ronald Hutton established himself as a leading authority on the historian of Paganism. His wealth of unusual knowledge, complemented by a deep and sympathetic understanding of past and present beliefs that are often dismissed as strange or marginal, and an ability to write lucidly and wittily, gives his work a unique flavour. The essays which make up "Witches, Druids and King Arthur" cover elegantly and entertainingly a wide range of beliefs, myths and practices. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

A serious collection of essays on often misunderstood topics
These collected essays examine mainly pagans past and present. The title may be pitching an historian's scholarship more widely. For Hutton, the leading expounder of the discontinuity between modern and ancient paganism, such a wider audience may welcome his work.

The essays are uneven in length and scope, and at times some drag. I found my attention wandering on and off, but I admit far less interest in magic than witches, say, and more in Druids than the Renaissance, for example. But all chapters make thoughtful points, and Hutton phrases his judgments with tact and care. He delves into controversial subjects and dismantles falsity. The title and cover may evoke an occult or stereotyped overview of these subjects, but these are advanced essays, geared for the educated reader. Perhaps those less knowledgeable may finish these thoughtful pages with a greater respect for an historian's approach to mythmaking.

"How Myths are Made" takes on the British Isles. Kilts, atrocity tales from the English Civil War, native Irish resistance, or "traditional" Welsh dress, among many examples, can be shown to be fabricated rather than verifiable products from long ago. I found some of his discussion on Irish republicanism, the topic closest to my own studies, to be at times overstated and simplified. But he does resurrect a broad range of delightful anecdotes to elaborate his contentions. As in: the faithful hound-legend of Beddgelert, how the Russians were supposed to have been coming to English ports early in WWI, Margaret Mead's islanders, Melville's "Typee," or how 120years seems to be the maximum length one can "trust" any orally transmitted memory.

The next two essays explore Arthurian lore, first how recent academia treats the historicity of Arthur, and then how Glastonbury became a New Age center full of dubious dabblers. The fourth one looks at length into "the New Old Paganism" and seeks to find how monotheism began to supplant polytheism among non-Christians in later antiquity. "Paganism in the Lost Centuries" examines strands of ancient belief that may have become enshrined, so to speak, in the Christian-dominated culture. These two are both densely written studies. For more on this field, by an author whom Hutton barely touches upon, see Pierre Chuvin's "Chronicles of the Last Pagans." (Also reviewed by me on Amazon US recently.)

"A Modest Look at Ritual Nudity" tries to find if this practice, contrary to Hutton's earlier thinking that only Wiccans practiced it regularly as worship, and not any ancient cult, may have existed way back. The evidence of course may be suspect as often we only have detractors to track for such charges. Yet Hutton shows here as throughout his scholarship an appealing open-mindedness to sift through masses of difficult sources on touchy subjects to find what seems most likely true.

For Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, Hutton returns to their familiar stories to find more pagan foundations than many Christian apologists do for their mythologies. Hutton argues that in the tension between their faith and their love of pagan tales and multiple gods, the two Inklings gained the power that marks their best work. Especially for Tolkien, Hutton reminds us that except for an "accident of publication" (231), the Middle Earth we know would have been preceded by the origin and creation myths of the gods later assembled after his death into "The Silmarillion," and if that work had been put out first, we'd likely read differently the rather understated mindset and populated mythos within "The Lord of the Rings."

In retrospect given two works on the ancient and modern Druids, published later this decade, Hutton's "The New Druidry" appears to be a warm-up for these books. He notes how 200 years of a "dream of syncretic universalism" for pagans in the wake of Romanticism appears to be waning. We see emerging in its place a more localized, land-based practice as becoming grounded by those reclaiming and reinventing "the old native religions." (249)

My favorite essay, "Living with Witchcraft," serves as a coda for his most famous study, "The Triumph of the Moon" (1999). This was the first serious history of modern British neopaganism. Hutton contrasts the patient reception it gained among current witches and pagans-- even as it revised their own origin myths often-- vs. the fears, contempt, and ridicule indulged in by many of his academic colleagues when they learned he studied witches and witchcraft. Even with tenure, he felt his career often at risk when engaging in sensitive research into what's a misunderstood, denigrated, and/or too overdramatized yet very under-explored topic.

Hutton reminds us, for some need so, of how past scholars fumbled their investigations into witchcraft. He shows how professors have toyed with their informants from the pagan community, and how cautiously he then had to tread to keep the confidences he established. His ethics and probity speak well for his difficulties, as he relates in compelling detail how controversial witches remain for the British audience. When learned clerics and esteemed dons scoff at the legitimacy of such research, one can only suppose how everyday folks regard witches and neo-pagans among them. Hutton represents the first sustained attempt to teach the public and the professoriate about the truth of modern witchcraft and its reasons for the same respect accorded other religious practices by today's neighbors.

By the way, the "nine million" supposedly executed in "Burning Times" for their "Old Religion" are shown an extrapolation of a 1793 figure of "9,442,994" from a unnamed local historian in the first chapter. (30) In this final section, Hutton shows how "Triumph of the Moon" sought a more sober revision of inflated discussion of witches past and present. (He estimates 40-50,000 probably died for witchcraft in Europe during Christian hegemony. [31])

essential
I don't have the time for a detailed review, but Hutton is simply brilliant. He's a bit of a Columbo detective and never stops digging to get as close to the truth as possible. Eventually he does have to admit that sometimes we cannot proclaim the truth despite what particular historical adherents wish. In a nutshell, for anyone wanting a richer understanding of the historical evidence of this subject, this book with its marvellous research is essential. For the most part, it is accessible to non-academic readers as well! Bravo!

Another great book from an honored scholar
This book is another compelling, if challenging entry from honored pagan scholar Ronald Hutton.Professor Hutton has brought us previous scholar tomes including The Triumph of the Moon, a history of modern paganisem in Britain, and the historical survey, The Pagan Religions of the British Isles, and Stations of the Sun, a history of the ritual year in Britain.

As anyone who have read Hutton before will know the Professor's published work aims for the general reading audience, though without doubt an educated one.However, the challenges of reading Hutton are worth it, and it is no less so than in this reviewed work.

The books only flaw, in my opinion, is the fact that this is not a continous work at all, but a collection of essays that the writer feels are related to each other.This is most true, though a couple, essays on ritual nudity and on the pagan elements in the writings of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein, are interesting though they don't seem to fit within the general theme indicated by the title.The rest of the fascinating essays cover: How Myths are Made, Arthur and the Academics, Glastonbury: Alternative Histories, and histories of medieval and modern paganism.

In the end, this is a book not to be missed.The discussion is lively and the information is profound.I heartily recommend this book.

Irrelevant twaddle presented as scholarship.
This volume of Hutton's scholarship on pagan topics appears to be a collection of essays that were written over several years and have been assembled into a book format with little or no thought to common ground.Hutton displays his very pronounced literary centric view of history, anything that wasn't written, or the writing didn't survive, didn't happen.For example, in the chapter on "Paganism in the lost centuries, Hutton goes on and on about some irrelevant Middle Eastern city which may or may not have sheltered pagans among other religions.While that might be of interest to some Middle Eastern medievalist scholars, it has absolutely nothing to do with the history of western paganism.In his "Modest look at Ritual Nudity," Hutton accurately points out that Wicca is very unique in its use of nudity, and astutely understands that Wiccan nudity helps to separate the serious religious seeker from the casual wannabe.However, Hutton goes on and on with more irrelevant twaddle about ancient Greek art and Roman nudity.Overall it displays what Hutton admits to be his "religion," scholarship based on writing as the sacred.It is perhaps a good book for those who share Hutton's "religious" views about the sacredness of the written word, and the corresponding lack value of anything not written.I rate it a 3 because he has some interesting things to say, but seems to lack real understanding of his topic.

Hit and Myth
Collections of essays by major historians can be a mixed bag.Ronald Hutton's new collection is one of the better ones.This is a collection of nine essays where Hutton tries to shed light on the murky world of magic and myth.The book begins with an essay on how myths were made, and then follows withtwo essays on King Arthur and Glastonbury.The next two essays deal with the problem of modern paganism and its connection to ancient paganism.The first deals with ancient paganism and the second deals with its convoluted path to the present day.Then we have a chapter on the existence of ritual nudity, one on Christianity in C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, one on modern druids and a final chapter on Hutton's experience writing his previous book on modern witchcraft.

What is the result of this interesting concoction?Let's start off with some problems.The essay on druidism is somewhat dry and is largely about complicated internal squabbles among modern druids.The opening chapter starts off by pointing out how modern Celtic nationalism is based on myths.We learn about the story (first told by Hugh Trevor-Roper, to whom the book is dedicated) of how the kilt was not the ancestral uniform of the Highlanders but was designed by an English businessman in Scotland in the 1700s who wanted more convenient clothing.Much of the origins of Welsh and Cornish nationalism come from romantic English sympathizers.But the discussion of Irish nationalism is disappointing.Who, after all, is Hutton trying to refute in pointing out that many nationalists have English, Norman and Protestant origins? Everyone in Ireland knows that Wolfe Tone and Parnell were Protestants.It is Unionism, not Republicanism, that defines Irish nationalism as no more than a whining Catholic sectarianism.And Hutton's deflation of the "myth" of Drogheda, based mostly on one contentious recent monograph, ignores the hundreds of thousands who died in the course of Cromwell's supression of the Irish rebellion.Finally there is a certain undue sympathy towards the mystics and magicians he is covering.In his deflation of the remarkable claims about Glastonbury Abbey, that Arthur's bones are buried there and that it is where Joseph of Arimathea came to England, he goes out of his way to suggest that they could conceivably be true.At one point he refers to modern paganism as an "entirely valid religion" that, notwithstanding its claims to the contrary, dates no earlier than the first decades of the twentieth century.That is all very liberal and tolerant, but one wonders what an "invalid religion" would be like.

Having said that however, much of the rest of the book is interesting and useful.To turn back to the opening chapters on myths, not only do we learn of the origins of the quite false statistic that nine million people were killed in the witch trials, we also learn of the limits of oral history.Contrary to what many people have thought, oral traditions become dramatically less accurate after a century or so.Hutton goes on to describe how he tried to use oral traditions to supplement his earlier histories of the English civil war and was maddeningly unsuccessful.Sir Henry Ireton supposedly defends the honor of a daughter he did not have, Oliver Cromwell dies a non-existent violent death, Charles II's fate is confused with his father's, major events go by with some areas completely forgetting them, while others "remember" non-existent romantic trivia.Meanwhile the Cornish, who in the 16th century rebelled against the rise of Protestantism, now remember themselves as Protestant heroes.We also learn the most recent research on King Arthur.The earliest reference to him comes in the early ninth century.In the seventies there was a surge of archaeological research which supposedly proved Arthur's existence.Hutton shows that it proved nothing of the sort, but is cautious about the idea that Arthur never existed.We also learn how Tolkein'sand Lewis' fantasies deviate from Christianity.In the two chapters on late paganism we learn about the traditions of late paganism and how they were transferred to the modern day.There is much talk about neoplatonism and the mysterious Sabians and the Arabian city of Harran, but Hutton is clear in showing that there was no direct continuous tradition from either source.When some of this neoplatonism surfaced in the twelfth and fifteenth centuries, they were mostly used by intellectuals who wished to use classical insights to strengthen Christianity.Hutton reminds us that the old distinction between religion (supplication to a God) and magic (invoking divine power for one's own ends) is still possible and still alive.Although modern pagans use ideas from neoplatonic and Egyptian magic, Hutton notes the contrast between modern optimism and late classical pessimism, the abstinence of the past with the sexuality of today, as well as the modern Pagan appeal to the people and the strictly minority and mysterious nature of the late paganism they invoke.There are many strange areas of the past that have been ignored by historians and are now dangerously infested with cranks.Ronald Hutton is a fine guide to these obscure areas. ... Read more

Product Description
Destiny's Warriors Special Edition (Science Ficton/Fantasy)
Ferrin Collins, archaeologist and professor living in modern day Belfast, goes out to explore for a possible dig-site and dozes off in the woods, dreaming as always of another time and place. He awakes in ancient Ireland, where he stumbles onto his Destiny.

Ferrin encounters a Druid called Wolf. During their time together, Wolf tells him the tale of Destiny’s Warriors. He enlightens Ferrin with the story of two royal brothers from the Underworld a realm of winter and their journey into the unknown Otherworld of perpetual summer, where they engage in mischief as young men will do. They encounter three sisters which spark a path of betrayal, murderous plots and revenge.

What results is an exhilarating journey into forbidden love and the horrors of human sacrifice. Destiny’s Warriors inspires its readers to empathize with the difficult decisions these ancient souls had to make in their lives. Should they be true to their own hearts, or the strict rules of their forefathers, while trying to survive in an ancient, harsh world of magic, tyranny and war. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

An Unforgettable Legend
Destiny's Warriors by R.M. Putnam is an epic fantasy tale that takes readers through time and history, submersing them in a world of might, magic, mystery and myth. Passions run high in this grand literary opus. In Destiny's Warriors we are privy to a world where Gods demand bloody sacrifices and mortal man is forced to appease the powers that rule over them. It is a world where lovers fall victim to their lust and mighty heroes face unspeakable terrors created by their own hearts. All of this is set against the backdrop of an ancient prophesy foretelling of great and terrifying events that will change the world of Gods and Men forever.

In Destiny's Warriors we are introduced to Ferrin Collins, an Irish archeologist trying to cope with the doldrums of his mundane existence. But destiny weaves an intricate web of events which lead him on a path of self-discovery, ultimately forcing him to recount his long forgotten past. During this rebirth, he recalls the great and tumultuous events which transpired long ago where mankind was plagued by bloodthirsty Gods who enslaved man to satisfy their greed. As the mystery of the past is revealed to Ferrin, he becomes to understand the role he plays in shaping the future of the world.

As I read Destiny's Warriors, I grew attached to the figures that people Putnam's tale. A world where people fall in and out of love, fight wars, bear children, and sometimes die to usher in the new world destiny has planned for mankind. Reading Destiny's Warriors was an emotional roller coaster taking me on a roaring adventure that jerked all of my emotions. I am astounded by the sheer scope of this multi-generational epic. Having arrived at Destiny's Warriors bittersweet conclusion, I am anxious to read the sequels which will expound on this marvelous fare.

I recommend Destiny's Warriors to all true-blooded lovers of fantasy and myth. This is a fantasy for the sophisticated adult and one that the reader will never forget.

A sweeping saga of gods and goddesses in ancient Ireland

Destiny's Warriors begins when an archaeologist, Ferrin, falls asleep in a forest of modern Ireland. Suddenly, he is transported hundreds of years into the past to the town of Erui. There he meets Paddy, an innkeeper, and Paddy's beautiful daughter, Rowena.
They help him adjust to life in Erui, where he feels strangely at home. When he encounters a druid, Wolf, and begins visiting him in his cave, he hears wonderful stories of ancient gods and goddesses who were worshipped by the Celts in days gone by. These stories are the focus of the novel, as we learn of the immortals, and their all too human frailities: greed, lust, betrayal and heartache. We follow them through the generations as we wonder what is going to become of them, and what is Ferrin's destiny in all this? It's a fascinating and enthralling tale, and the pages seem to fly by. Complexity adds depth to the novel, but never keeps you from understanding and enjoying it. Destiny's Warriors will entertain you and leave you wanting more.
... Read more