Photo Credit: Cynthia Herron
I finished reading one of my favorite books of the year. At approximately 416 pages, Flight of the Earls, by Michael K. Reynolds, hooked me and held me fast from beginning to end.
I knew I was in for a hang-on-to-my-seat ride as I read the opening sentence and initial paragraphs of book one in the Heirs of Ireland series.
The picture this author paints with his words is descriptive and masterful, and with a prologue like The Death Fog, you get a clear and colorful idea of the crisis at hand and where this story’s headed.
Three must-haves as you sit down to this thrilling read: a pot of strong coffee, a box of milk chocolates, and time. (A lot of that one because you won’t want to be interrupted.)
Flight of the Earls, a Christian fiction historical, begins in 1846 just as the Hanleys Ireland farm succumbs to the potato famine. To insure his family’s survival, the crusty Liam Hanley makes life-changing decisions that will forever affect the lives of his loved ones and those of future generations.
Photo Credit of Ireland: Sergey Vyaltsev/Creative Commons
Daughter Clare, along with her younger brother, Seamus, are sent to America–the land of prosperity–to make their mark in the world, paving the way for the Hanley clan.
After a long, grueling journey at sea, Clare and her brother land on the shores of America only to find all is not what they’d hoped. It’s survival of the fittest as they face new hardships in a world soiled by lies, greed, and sin.
The author pulls no punches as he makes this story come alive. Human flaws and vulnerabilities are exposed through vivid, sweeping imagery. In a wasteland of woes laid bare, Clare and Seamus fight tooth and nail for a better way of life. As they take risks and seek opportunities, they discover love, hope, and adventure along the way.
Clare is drawn to two men. One, physically striking and strong–the other, attractive, yet mysterious. Only one will woo her heart and it won’t be for the reason the reader thinks.
Meanwhile, Seamus is adrift in his own sea of conflict. He comes to realize that, with choices, there’s also accountability. When a foolish misstep collides with sound judgement, the young man’s youth dissolves in an instant. Once again, Seamus must rise to the occasion.
The spiritual message throughout Flight of the Earls is subtle, but powerful. Without wielding a religious hammer, it’s a tale of yearning and yielding. It’s not as much about the human condition as it is about the courage to press on, despite’s one’s circumstances.
As I read, there were moments I railed against specific characters and rallied around others. (The hallmark of a great story BTW.) I wondered how loose threads would be tied up and whether I’d be satisfied with the ending.
When I reached page 400, I had my answer. And I teared up! (The ultimate litmus test.) I thought Wow! This would make a fantastic television mini-series! I could see it play out in my head and even envisioned who would be perfect for the parts. You’ll have to read the book to understand what I’m talking about.
Both men and women will enjoy Flight of the Earls. Rich in history and ripe with intrigue, adventure, and romance, there’s something for everyone.
Also, you won’t want to miss In Golden Splendor (Book two of the Heirs of Ireland series) that recently released!
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*Dislosure
*I received Flight of the Earls direct from the publisher, however, opinions expressed are my own, and I have in no way received monetary payment for this review.
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Have you ever been to Ireland?
What would be the hardest thing about leaving your homeland?
When God takes you out of your comfort zone, how does that make you feel?
Photo Credit: Sergey Vyaltsev/Creative Commons
Blessings Always,
Comments 6
I’ve not been to Ireland, which is kind of ridiculous, actually, since I studied in England. I made it to Scotland–which was amazing–but not Ireland, sadly.
I actually met this author at ACFW last year. He gave me some chocolates and told a few of us about his book during one meal and it’s stuck in my mind ever since! Sounds like a wonderful story!
Author
Melissa, Michael is an agency mate and a super nice fellow. (He’s known for his chocolates! :)) Flight of the Earls is really a great story and it would make a super mini-series (or better yet, a major motion picture!)
Our son went to Ireland about 10 years ago with his grandparents. He remembers everything being so lush and green. It also rained cats and dogs, and their bus had to take a (lonnng) detour around flooded areas. He recalls the countryside as being very beautiful. He went to Scotland and England, as well, and it was certainly a trip he’ll always remember. Wow, how wonderful that you were able to study there!
A great read, indeed! And a great review. You have a gift, Cynthia.
Author
Sue, thank you! You humble me!
I enjoyed Flight of the Earls so much! Now, my husband’s reading it.
Sounds like a good read. I’ve never been to Ireland, but I saw my niece’s photos when she went, so lush and green. The hardest part of leaving my homeland would be missing the loved ones left behind.
Author
Patti, I would miss my homeland, too, and definitely my family.