THE LIGHT OF LUNASA
by Laura Foley
In Foley’s fantasy novel, a troubled young woman unexpectedly travels to ancient Ireland, where her destiny is determined by her prodigious magical abilities.
Clíona Murphy has been crippled with guilt since the death of her brother Fionn, which she accidentally caused with magical abilities she calls her “curse.” When her curse claims another victim (this time, the mayor), Clíona flees and is on the verge of being arrested when she is suddenly transported to ancient Ireland—a world once known to her only through stories and folklore is suddenly real and filled with ever-present danger. Two warrior brothers, Rían and Caolann, begrudgingly take Clíona under their protection, and she and Caolann grow attracted to each other despite mutual suspicion. From him, Clíona learns that magic is quite common in their world (called Saoirse), and that her abilities could carry great power if she learns how to control them. Saoirse is haunted by a mysterious creature stealing young children by night. When a child Clíona has befriended is the next taken, Clíona decides to enter the Tuatha Dé Danann’s trials. If she claims victory, the gods will grant her one wish, and she intends to ask for their aid in finding the missing children. But is she prepared for the toil and bloodshed necessary to achieve her goal? This is a dark epic fantasy, rich with folklore and fascinating characters. Clíona’s combative demeanor and traumatic past are distinctive—she is no ingenue, but her deep (unacknowledged) compassion and courage make her journey a powerful one to follow. The trials are not introduced until the second half of the story, shifting the tone from brooding and character-driven to action-packed, but Foley handles the transition well. The world she creates is so well developed that it seems to live and breathe with the characters, highlighting Clíona’s growth: “Strange things were happening in this world. And yet something louder than a whisper or inkling told me I was only standing on the precipice of more than I dared to find out.”
A gorgeous fantasy novel perfect for readers seeking dark romance, mystery, and magic.