This was a very well written book. It shows the struggles and growth of the main female character and the grow she goes through. The romance was very tasteful done.

"Aoife of Leinster" by Sean J. Fitzgerald is a captivating historical novel that delves into the life of one of Ireland's most intriguing figures. Fitzgerald's writing is immersive, transporting readers to the rich tapestry of medieval Ireland with vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail. The story of Aoife unfolds with depth and authenticity, offering a compelling portrayal of her struggles, triumphs, and the turbulent times in which she lived. Fitzgerald skillfully weaves together elements of romance, politics, and warfare, creating a narrative that is both engaging and enlightening. "Aoife of Leinster" is a testament to Fitzgerald's talent as a storyteller and is sure to captivate readers with its blend of history and drama.

This was really good!!!! I found this novel captivating! Not only because of the storyline, but also because of its numerous historical details, such as the women's rights in Ireland as opposed to England. The novel also shows all the differences between the structure, strategies of the armies lead by the Irish/Norse and these of the Normans. Of course all this information is well woven in the events of the times whether in Ireland, Wales and England. Fascinating details I definitely was not aware of. The conclusion is a bit of a cliff hanger, but as I intend to read book 2, I didn't mind. A rich novel indeed which I highly recommend.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.

“Aoife of Leinster” is a historical fiction book by Sean J. FitzGerald. This book tells the story of Aoife, an Irish noblewoman born in the mid-1100s. This book tells her story in an interesting way - giving her a voice to modern readers. It was interesting reading what the life of a Gaelic king was like - someone who not only loved her family, but also loved her home land - to the point of marrying a Norman, Richard de Clare (better known as Strongbow). I enjoyed learning more about Aoife and Ireland during those turbulent times. Do read the Author's Note and I'm glad that there's a set of family trees included in this book.

I really enjoyed this first book in the series and the author has interwoven the story around historical facts of the time and historical characters including Diarmuit MacMurrough, King of Leinster, Ireland, Aoife his daughter, Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Pembroke (known as Strongbow) and many others.
I really enjoyed the storyline in this book and was engrossed right from the start by the way the author sets the scenes and found them very descriptive to the point I didn’t want to put the book down but keep reading to find out what happened next. Full of action with lots of strong characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The chapters whizzed by and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

This was a good historical fiction novel, set in a Ireland during the 1100s, not a time period you see too often! It was a nice change of pace from all the WWI/WWII novels coming out. Aoife was a very likeable heroine and I loved how much she cared about her people and her land. It did get. a little too political at times and I had to trudge it but overall it was well paced and was very enjoyable!

This was a fantastic Irish historical fiction done with wonderful research and care. I honestly found myself prolonging finishing it because not only did I not want to leave this fantastic book, but also because it made me nostalgic for Lawless’s Gael Song series. 🍀

The story follows Aoife and her family, the MacMurroughs, as they flee their home in Ferns, Ireland for safety and military aid from the English Normans. The whole time I read this, it felt like a weirdly natural continuation of the Gael Song series which takes place in late 10th/early 11th century Ireland while this is set in the mid 12th century. The characters in “Aoife” are distant descendants of the historical characters from the Gael Song series, and it honestly made my heart rather happy to see them show up again. But history wise, this all really did happen and I had a blast going down the medieval Irish history rabbit hole. 🍀

Aoife was the kind of FMC I wanted: fierce, loyal, and incredibly level headed (though not when it comes to where her heart goes). I really enjoyed her interactions with the other characters in the book, and it really helps set up the sequel quite nicely. The other characters I found myself enjoying whenever they showed up were her brother Donal and lover (I won’t spoil the name). Their banter back and forth was both entertaining but also really showed the respect that each of them had during their time together. There’s of course a horribly despicable character in the bunch, but again, I’ll let everyone find out who that is. . . Man, I wanted that character dead so badly by the end of the book. 😅

The only thing I found rather odd here and there was the random jumping of POVs. Sometimes you were seeing the plot through the villain’s POV, and others in another character. While it provided a great counterpoint to Aoife’s POV, it was still kind of odd to see sometimes. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Other than that though, this should be only any Irish history fan’s radar! It provides a wonderful POV of the Norman invasion of Ireland that’s not highly explored, and I thought FitzGerald did a fantastic job bringing Aoife to life. 💚

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an electronic advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review, and to the author for crafting a fantastic historical fiction! ❤️

Publication date: March 21!

Overall: 4.75/5 ⭐️

Aoife of Leinster
By Sean FitzGerald

This book deals with the English and Irish social structures of the 1100s. It is a true story based on historical figures Aoife MacMurrough, princess of Leinster, and Richard de Clere, known as Strongbow, Marcher lord out of favor with his king.

Aoife's father, having been defeated and forced from his kingdom by his enemies, appealed to Strongbow for his aid in recapturing his kingdom. In exchange Strongbow was to get Aiofe's hand in marriage and be named heir to the kingdom of Leinster. This book is the first in the saga of how this all played out.

As well as the blood and guts retelling of the differences in battle styles, this book shows the stark differences between English law and Ireland's Brehon law as regards to women and their rights. While the Irish were not as capable in battle as the English – they did not fight from horseback or use armor for example – they were much more advanced in their treatment of their women. A woman, under Brehon law, could not be forced into a marriage, but must give her consent.

The story here ends with the taking of Wexford and the horror of what was done to political hostages. The book's subtitle –The Price of a Throne – is fitting. I look forward to reading the next installment.

This book was very interesting. This is a historical fiction based off of the life of Aoife set in Ireland in the 1100’s. It follows her and her family’s quest to regain their throne.

There is so much to learn in this book. Rights that women had in Ireland at that time are completely unheard of. It also follows the different ways that different areas prepare for battle. This book doesn’t have too many battle scenes in it and it ends on a cliffhanger. It looks to be the first in the series. I will be picking the next one up when it comes out. I recommend this to true fans of historical fiction.

A time of betrayal, love and war. Aiofe is a young woman who is promised to marry Strongbow for political gain. Aiofe a princess of Ireland and Strongbow struggling to get in good with King Henry I. Rich with emotions, intrigue, and Irish history. Castles and kings with the harsh realities of the medieval era.

Aiofe of Leinster by Sean J FitzGerald is the story of a the daughter (princess) of one of many Irish kings at this time (1166) MacMurrough. He and his family have been rousted from their home and kingdom and had fled. As Aiofe carried her mother on her horse, she handed her two small brothers to her father. He dropped one and Aiofe was able to scoop him up, but then he dropped the other and he was captured by the enemy. Her father didn’t care. He just cared about himself and his kingdom. They made their way to Wales where he “wheeled and dealed” to get assistance to regain his kingdom. One of the deals was Aiofe’s hand in marriage. In Ireland the daughter chose her own husband so only after meeting the man and negotiating did she agree. Her father was desperate to regain his holdings and so didn’t want to listen to anyone else. This is that story.

Aoife was an excellent character, well-written, and most of all resilient. She soldiered on and fought with her heart as well as her sword. It was an engaging story, deeply rooted in history and full of the Irish language and customs. It was well-written and fairly easy to read. As an aficionado of Sister Fidelma, I recognized many cultural facts contained herein. Life was not easy in medieval times and holding on to one’s kingdom was less easy. I was a good book. Thanks Mr. FitzGerald for the read.

I was invited to read Aoife of Leinster by Book Whisperer. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BookWhisperer #SeanJFitzGerald #AoifeOfLeinster

I really enjoyed this book. I don’t normally read historical fiction, but this read almost like a medieval fantasy novel (albeit without the magic). Aoife is a wonderful character, and her growth, fears, and choices are relatable. The supporting characters are well-drawn, interesting and believable.

It really brought this period of Irish history to life, and I suspect I’ll remember more about this period going forward than I ever learned in school. I loved learning more about Brehon law, and how Ireland was organised in pre-Norman times. I can’t wait to learn what happens next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.