Start: 15th August 2023
Finished: 9th September 2023
Rating 5/5
Move over Outlander, there is a new historical fantasy in town. One where instead of time-travelling WWII nurses lusting for men in 18th Century Scotland, readers witness a centuries old conflict between two mythical fractions long forgotten by Ireland’s human inhabitants. While I’m in no doubt readers would have already heard of today’s chosen book I felt it time to share my own opinion about Shauna Lawless’ The Children of Gods and Fighting Men (2022) before posting about its recently released sequel, The Words of Kings and Prophets (2023).
Much like my horror and thriller genres, fiction that blends elements of historical fact tend to be hit and miss for me. However I am a sucker when it comes to historical fantasies that take inspiration from Irish history and myth, which Lawless presents in such an enticing way through emotionally impacting characters.
Set in late tenth century Ireland, the story introduces readers to its two female narrators; Fódla, an immortal descendant of the mythical Tuatha Dé Danann and Gormflaith, a daughter of the Danann’s nearly extinct enemies, The Formorians. Both seek to ensure the survival of their people. While one will do so through kindness and friendship, the other uses trickery and feminine wiles. And all, both real and fictional mortals can do, is watch.
As mentioned, The Children of Gods and Fighting Men is a book that will appeal to readers interested in The Outlander series (1991-), perhaps even fans of Juliet Marillier’s Sevenwaters series (1999-2012).
Though be warned Outlanders, Sassenachs, Outfanders (whatever you call yourselves now) no steamy romance in this one. However there is a dual sword-wielding Irishman that might get some swooning. But the men aren’t important in this book (Though I would be lying if I didn’t say I was demanding Fódla to use her healing powers on said dual sword-wielding Irishman). No it’s the women, Fódla and Gormflaith who help readers circumnavigate this land of power-hungry kings. And trust me readers, you wouldn’t want it any other way. Asides from painting a world dominated by men, The Children of Gods and Fighting Men is a book that proves feminism does not mean the characters have to be sword-wielding girl bosses to make an impression. A strong character does not have to be depicted physically, emotional strength can be just as impressive and I feel Lawless demonstrates just such by having chosen the maternal archetype for her main characters.
Fódla is a recluse immortal, haunted by the loss of her mortal daughter and gas-lighted by her former husband and Danann Leader, Tomas. But through her nephew Broccan and the mortal friends she makes along the way she is able to come out of her shell and question her role within her people’s plans. All without lifting a blade.
Gormflaith is ruthless. Made this way, through manipulation by her own flesh and blood, plus trauma experienced at a young age. Her goal is survival and to ensure her son, Sitric Silkbeard is safe and ruler of Dublin.
Both women have small but mighty voices and they are voices readers will want to listen to.
They certainly compliment the book’s setting. Considering my limited knowledge of Irish history is (for the record history was never my strongest subject in high school) I can’t say for sure how historically accurate The Children of Gods and Fight Men is. However, Lawless’ decision to base the events in Middle Ages Ireland offers a breadth of creativity that will get readers looking up the locations, events and people. Though for the sake of potential spoilers I would advise against it.
In The Children of Gods and Fighting Men Ireland is at a time of change, moving on from the old traditions influenced by the locals and Viking settlers to a time when Christianity has begun to sink its roots even deeper into the island. It is a prominent theme depicting both political and religious strife but also demonstrates how even in such times the old ways are never forgotten, simply re-shaped. Much like literature has always done for us fellow readers.
Compelling characters with an equally creative universe, The Children of Gods and Fighting Men is a historical fantasy to get readers pondering on the times from before.
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