warriorbarrd reviewed Firebrand by Gillian Philip
Review of 'Firebrand' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
A dark fantasy novel from established young adult author Gillian Philip, Firebrand takes the reader’s imagination with both hands and doesn’t let go until the last page is turned.
Set in a world side-by-side with ours, the Veil separates the Sithe world from the full-mortals’. It is the last decade of the sixteenth century, when the full-mortal world – otherwise known as the otherworld - is gripped by religious wars and witch-hunts. But the Sithe are at peace - until their queen, Kate NicNiven, determines to destroy the Veil and overtake the otherworld.
The story is told by Seth, a half-feral son of a nobleman, who is loyal to his brother Conal with admirable conviction. When Conal is exiled to the otherworld, Seth joins him without a second thought. They vow to survive the full-mortals, who would kill them if they knew what they were, and to reclaim their world …
A dark fantasy novel from established young adult author Gillian Philip, Firebrand takes the reader’s imagination with both hands and doesn’t let go until the last page is turned.
Set in a world side-by-side with ours, the Veil separates the Sithe world from the full-mortals’. It is the last decade of the sixteenth century, when the full-mortal world – otherwise known as the otherworld - is gripped by religious wars and witch-hunts. But the Sithe are at peace - until their queen, Kate NicNiven, determines to destroy the Veil and overtake the otherworld.
The story is told by Seth, a half-feral son of a nobleman, who is loyal to his brother Conal with admirable conviction. When Conal is exiled to the otherworld, Seth joins him without a second thought. They vow to survive the full-mortals, who would kill them if they knew what they were, and to reclaim their world and save the Veil.
Seth is utterly captivating with his damaged heart and fierce pride. While a dark character, every surge of his emotions leaps of the page, whether it’s fear, rage or joy. Immediately he is a part of your life, and a welcome one at that.
Philip has captured the best of fantasy novels; rich with detail but not long-winded, it’s a pleasure to read and become involved with this world and characters. Even when the book is closed for the night, the characters linger and it’s not long before you’re compelled to continue reading.
Indeed, Firebrand’s only fault is that we have to wait another two months for the second book.