Dreams of Fire (2024)

The immortals of Ireland renew their ancient warfare as the new generations come to terms with their place in the world. Part of Shauna Lawless's critically acclaimed Gael Song series, the novella Dreams of Fire introduces medieval Ireland as it was a century before The Children of Gods and Fighting Men. Rónnat and Fódla are Descendants of the Tuatha Dé Danann. They live a peaceful life with their aged warrior father in the north of Ireland. The Fomorians – age-old enemies of their kind – are thought to be battle-vanquished, for no conflict has been fought between their immortal races for generations. But rumours of war and endless shifting allegiances mean that the Descendants' position is not secure in the mortal world. There are powerful voices among the Descendants who want their kind to dwell permanently in strongholds hidden from mortals – threatening Rónnat's love of freedom. And the Fomorians, though greatly reduced in number, are far from vanquished. Led by their mighty prince, Balorach, the remaining Fomorians, with their gift of fire-magic, seek to destroy the Descendants. The Descendants have the advantage of their own magical powers, and mighty warriors defend them... but if they cannot be beaten, why do the voices Rónnat hears on the wind speak of death and destruction? 'Shauna Lawless is a brilliant writer... [An] utterly immersive novella.' Grimdark Magazine Reviewers on Shauna Lawless' GAEL SONG series: 'Lawless blends fantasy with historical fiction to great effect.' SFX 'Celebrates the extraordinary history and cultural traditions of Ireland while giving voice to the women who helped shape it.' Lucy Holland 'A beguiling blend of fantasy, history, and politics.' D.K. Fields