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Sevenwaters #5
Seer of Sevenwaters
The young druid seer, Sibeal, befriends a Viking shipwreck survivor, Felix, and has a runic divination that sends the pair on a perilous mission, but finds that the danger is nothing compared to the conflict in her heart.
432 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 2010
About the author
Juliet Marillier
77 books11.7k followersJuliet Marillier was born in Dunedin, New Zealand and grew up surrounded by Celtic music and stories. Her own Celtic-Gaelic roots inspired her to write her first series, the Sevenwaters Trilogy. Juliet was educated at the University of Otago, where she majored in music and languages, graduating BA and Bachelor of Music (Hons). Her lifelong interest in history, folklore and mythology has had a major influence on her writing.
Juliet is the author of twenty-one historical fantasy novels for adults and young adults, as well as a book of short fiction. Juliet's novels and short stories have won many awards.
Juliet lives in a 110 year old cottage in a riverside suburb of Perth, Western Australia. When not writing, she tends to her small pack of rescue dogs. She also has four adult children and eight grandchildren. Juliet is a member of the druid order OBOD (the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids.)
Juliet is the author of twenty-one historical fantasy novels for adults and young adults, as well as a book of short fiction. Juliet's novels and short stories have won many awards.
Juliet lives in a 110 year old cottage in a riverside suburb of Perth, Western Australia. When not writing, she tends to her small pack of rescue dogs. She also has four adult children and eight grandchildren. Juliet is a member of the druid order OBOD (the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 702 reviews
April 4, 2018
“The divination showed a mission; courage in the face of death; the completion of a circle, the possibility of a goal achieved.”
What it didn’t show was 432 pages of total boredom and waste of time. By the Dagda’s manhood, it is very problematic when the Author does not know when to finish a series and so it drags on and on and on to the detriment of the initial design and readers’ despair!
I begin to believe that Daughter of the Forest is the only book in the Sevenwaters series above the average and thus the only one worth reading. But usually, every series is like a dynasty, the farther down the line, the better the chance of begetting a monstrosity instead of a prince charming.
This time we are following the steps of Sibeal who is a seer about to enter the druid nemetons and thus pledge her life to celibacy, scholarly pursuits, and otherworldly issues. Her mentor sends her to spend the last summer before her final pledge with her sisters on Inis Eala, which essentially is a tiny island brimming with young warriors. You see where the whole thing is coming?
“Fall in love with some strapping young warrior and allow my life to veer off its long-intended course? I would never let that happen.”
Here it comes! Just as you would expect, a young man lands on her path to the happily ever after.
Sibeal is yet another Liadan-derivative with all that comes with this type of protagonist. She sees the world differently, she has powers that set her aside from mere mortals, on this ground she is given much more credit than she deserves, she is prone to fainting spells due to alleged fatigue and “being hard on herself” (even though she is supposedly used to the druidic discipline and ascetic life) and crying in dark corners for no reason whatsoever. She is also immature and unstable, becoming unsettled or put off by s single remark uttered by a complete stranger.
Felix is yet another young male, rescued by destiny, nurtured to life, and battling internal darkness. Also, he has amnesia. Aside from the gaps in his memory that initially shroud him in an appealing shroud of mystery, there is literally nothing interesting or unique about him.
The plot is so slow, that I swear continental drifts move at a faster pace. Felix is rescued at the beginning, and only in chapter 7 he makes first steps as a convalescent patient. Things start getting interesting around chapter 10. Obvious clues are ignored, self-evident conclusions are not arrived at until the very last possible moments. Any action is overtalked to death by verbosity.
Then there is the romance. Good romance requires two individuals whose interactions either result in sparkles flying (the opposites attract or the from enemies to lovers) or who need to grow and develop in order to remove the initial obstacles on their way to happiness. The problem with the Seer of Sevenwaters is that there are absolutely no obstacles to be overcome.
Sibeal is basically a druidic version of a nun in the novitiate. She has made an informed decision to follow a certain path of life because of her sight but a) the decision has not been final and b) there are no reasons not to change it. The life of self-denial and prayer is quite artificially juxtaposed (taking into consideration the druidic context) with the bliss of marital carnal pleasures. Felix is in love with her full stop. Nothing to add. Nothing to prevent what normally ensues. the whole drama is faked and artificial and thus, it is not surprising that all the dilemmas are dealt with in two pages.
In terms of how the story is presented, Ms Marillier developed her writing repertoire and so instead of the nauseating and repetitive angsty internal monologue of the leading female, you have a double dose of male and female reflections and altogether wallowing in self-pity. There are the usual filler bit of reminiscing and retelling of what has already happened previously, plus the story-telling bits of Irish lore and fable.
The Seer of Sevenwaters has been awful - the weakest of the whole lot so far. It nearly made me question whether I want to continue the series, even though it is the penultimate instalment. I certainly would not recommend it to anyone outside the hardcore Marillier fandom.
-----
Other Sevenwaters books:
1. Daughter of the Forest
2. Son of the Shadows
3. Child of the Prophecy
4. Heir to Sevenwaters
6. Flame of Sevenwaters
What it didn’t show was 432 pages of total boredom and waste of time. By the Dagda’s manhood, it is very problematic when the Author does not know when to finish a series and so it drags on and on and on to the detriment of the initial design and readers’ despair!
I begin to believe that Daughter of the Forest is the only book in the Sevenwaters series above the average and thus the only one worth reading. But usually, every series is like a dynasty, the farther down the line, the better the chance of begetting a monstrosity instead of a prince charming.
This time we are following the steps of Sibeal who is a seer about to enter the druid nemetons and thus pledge her life to celibacy, scholarly pursuits, and otherworldly issues. Her mentor sends her to spend the last summer before her final pledge with her sisters on Inis Eala, which essentially is a tiny island brimming with young warriors. You see where the whole thing is coming?
“Fall in love with some strapping young warrior and allow my life to veer off its long-intended course? I would never let that happen.”
Here it comes! Just as you would expect, a young man lands on her path to the happily ever after.
Sibeal is yet another Liadan-derivative with all that comes with this type of protagonist. She sees the world differently, she has powers that set her aside from mere mortals, on this ground she is given much more credit than she deserves, she is prone to fainting spells due to alleged fatigue and “being hard on herself” (even though she is supposedly used to the druidic discipline and ascetic life) and crying in dark corners for no reason whatsoever. She is also immature and unstable, becoming unsettled or put off by s single remark uttered by a complete stranger.
Felix is yet another young male, rescued by destiny, nurtured to life, and battling internal darkness. Also, he has amnesia. Aside from the gaps in his memory that initially shroud him in an appealing shroud of mystery, there is literally nothing interesting or unique about him.
The plot is so slow, that I swear continental drifts move at a faster pace. Felix is rescued at the beginning, and only in chapter 7 he makes first steps as a convalescent patient. Things start getting interesting around chapter 10. Obvious clues are ignored, self-evident conclusions are not arrived at until the very last possible moments. Any action is overtalked to death by verbosity.
Then there is the romance. Good romance requires two individuals whose interactions either result in sparkles flying (the opposites attract or the from enemies to lovers) or who need to grow and develop in order to remove the initial obstacles on their way to happiness. The problem with the Seer of Sevenwaters is that there are absolutely no obstacles to be overcome.
Sibeal is basically a druidic version of a nun in the novitiate. She has made an informed decision to follow a certain path of life because of her sight but a) the decision has not been final and b) there are no reasons not to change it. The life of self-denial and prayer is quite artificially juxtaposed (taking into consideration the druidic context) with the bliss of marital carnal pleasures. Felix is in love with her full stop. Nothing to add. Nothing to prevent what normally ensues. the whole drama is faked and artificial and thus, it is not surprising that all the dilemmas are dealt with in two pages.
In terms of how the story is presented, Ms Marillier developed her writing repertoire and so instead of the nauseating and repetitive angsty internal monologue of the leading female, you have a double dose of male and female reflections and altogether wallowing in self-pity. There are the usual filler bit of reminiscing and retelling of what has already happened previously, plus the story-telling bits of Irish lore and fable.
The Seer of Sevenwaters has been awful - the weakest of the whole lot so far. It nearly made me question whether I want to continue the series, even though it is the penultimate instalment. I certainly would not recommend it to anyone outside the hardcore Marillier fandom.
-----
Other Sevenwaters books:
1. Daughter of the Forest
2. Son of the Shadows
3. Child of the Prophecy
4. Heir to Sevenwaters
6. Flame of Sevenwaters
April 6, 2011
Like many others, I am a huge fan of the original Sevenwaters trilogy. I've re-read each of those first three books many times, loving the touching romances, the strong heroines, the atmosphere, the way the whole Sevenwaters family came to life--basically everything. I was even delighted with Heir to Sevenwaters on the first couple of reads, and while nothing else Marillier has written quite stands up to the original Sevenwaters trilogy, I've found several of her other books to be enjoyable and wonderfully romantic. So I'm disappointed with this book, although Marillier's writing has been headed this way for some time; I noticed re-reading Heir to Sevenwaters, and later with Heart's Blood, that there was something missing. Here though, it really comes to a head.
To start with the plot: Sibeal (the child seer from Child of the Prophecy and Heir to Sevenwaters) is now 16, and is visiting her family on the island of Inis Eala before taking her final vows as a druid. She meets a young man, and things progress exactly the way you think they do. That's part of the problem: that this book is so predictable. The leads and their relationship are very similar to previous leads and relationships. Sibeal even has a narrative voice virtually identical to that of her sister Clodagh in the previous book--although the two are supposed to be polar opposites. This book is narrated alternately by Sibeal and her love interest, Felix, and I'm not convinced this was a good choice; his voice isn't distinct either, and to be honest he doesn't sound much like a man.
Which brings me to another point: all the characters in this book are ridiculously sensitive. When strangers die in a shipwreck nearby, everyone speaks in hushed voices and loses their appetites for days; there's a constantly voiced concern about whether people are "ready" to talk about traumatic events; characters are forever telling each other how wonderful or brave they are, and showing open admiration for anyone who does anything remotely challenging. Wait a minute. We're talking about a warrior-based community in 9th century Ireland here. Few people in real life are anywhere near as sensitive or thoughtful as every single "good" character in this book. It didn't ring true to me at all. And this was before the inhabitants of Inis Eala decided to take an extremely perilous voyage to parts unknown to save three strangers--almost without discussion, because this seemed to them the obvious choice. Marillier's writing has always been idealized in at least some aspects, and I've enjoyed it, but here the selflessness was taken to such extremes that I didn't feel like I was reading about real people.
Add the problem that far too little is at stake in this book. Previous books featured serious threats to the main characters and everything they held dear. There's nothing of that sort here. Instead there's a random, voluntary escapade to save some strangers; but it's a one-off unrelated to anything in the larger series, and it never really feels dangerous despite its perils. Problems are quickly solved and the leads remain confident of their success throughout. The only real challenge Sibeal faces is the conflict between her goal to become a druid and her feelings for Felix, and even that is easily and predictably resolved. (Oh, and the insistence that no woman can possibly be happy without a husband and children and freely showing all her emotions has gotten gratuitous. It's one thing for many of the characters to believe it, but another when the author utterly changes the heroine to fit that mold and then calls it "growing up.") Stripped of genuine suspense or loss, but left with lots of recycled sentiments and metaphor-heavy speeches (is it really necessary for Sibeal to explain to all of her relatives individually that she loves Felix like a tree loves the sun, and so on? Maybe she could simply say she loves him, especially since she's meant to be reserved?), the book felt rather sterile.
I can see why the reviewers so far have liked the book: it's cool to see beloved characters again, and it entertains well enough. It's not terribly written, and I also liked the subplot dealing with the shipwrecked woman Svala, which was clever. Ultimately my reaction might be as much as result of my tastes changing as of the changes in her style. But at this point I would suggest to new readers that they read the original trilogy and leave it at that.
To start with the plot: Sibeal (the child seer from Child of the Prophecy and Heir to Sevenwaters) is now 16, and is visiting her family on the island of Inis Eala before taking her final vows as a druid. She meets a young man, and things progress exactly the way you think they do. That's part of the problem: that this book is so predictable. The leads and their relationship are very similar to previous leads and relationships. Sibeal even has a narrative voice virtually identical to that of her sister Clodagh in the previous book--although the two are supposed to be polar opposites. This book is narrated alternately by Sibeal and her love interest, Felix, and I'm not convinced this was a good choice; his voice isn't distinct either, and to be honest he doesn't sound much like a man.
Which brings me to another point: all the characters in this book are ridiculously sensitive. When strangers die in a shipwreck nearby, everyone speaks in hushed voices and loses their appetites for days; there's a constantly voiced concern about whether people are "ready" to talk about traumatic events; characters are forever telling each other how wonderful or brave they are, and showing open admiration for anyone who does anything remotely challenging. Wait a minute. We're talking about a warrior-based community in 9th century Ireland here. Few people in real life are anywhere near as sensitive or thoughtful as every single "good" character in this book. It didn't ring true to me at all. And this was before the inhabitants of Inis Eala decided to take an extremely perilous voyage to parts unknown to save three strangers--almost without discussion, because this seemed to them the obvious choice. Marillier's writing has always been idealized in at least some aspects, and I've enjoyed it, but here the selflessness was taken to such extremes that I didn't feel like I was reading about real people.
Add the problem that far too little is at stake in this book. Previous books featured serious threats to the main characters and everything they held dear. There's nothing of that sort here. Instead there's a random, voluntary escapade to save some strangers; but it's a one-off unrelated to anything in the larger series, and it never really feels dangerous despite its perils. Problems are quickly solved and the leads remain confident of their success throughout. The only real challenge Sibeal faces is the conflict between her goal to become a druid and her feelings for Felix, and even that is easily and predictably resolved. (Oh, and the insistence that no woman can possibly be happy without a husband and children and freely showing all her emotions has gotten gratuitous. It's one thing for many of the characters to believe it, but another when the author utterly changes the heroine to fit that mold and then calls it "growing up.") Stripped of genuine suspense or loss, but left with lots of recycled sentiments and metaphor-heavy speeches (is it really necessary for Sibeal to explain to all of her relatives individually that she loves Felix like a tree loves the sun, and so on? Maybe she could simply say she loves him, especially since she's meant to be reserved?), the book felt rather sterile.
I can see why the reviewers so far have liked the book: it's cool to see beloved characters again, and it entertains well enough. It's not terribly written, and I also liked the subplot dealing with the shipwrecked woman Svala, which was clever. Ultimately my reaction might be as much as result of my tastes changing as of the changes in her style. But at this point I would suggest to new readers that they read the original trilogy and leave it at that.
April 15, 2016
UPDATED REVIEW: April 14, 2016
It's been a little over 5 years since I read Seer, and I have been working my way back through the series. After reading the story again, with time and years to my advantage, I feel looking back that I was too critical of Seer. I said it lacked feeling and adventure. This time around, without the burden of expectation, I throughly loved it. The love story unfolded beautifully and moved deeply. Our heroes were brave and selfless and so unlike their series predecessors, that it was captivating in a new unique way. Though the love was never denied, there was more passion in the words left unspoken and embraces unshared than if it were blatantly expressed. The quest was noble and courageous and our characters perfectly flawed. The great mystery was still a bit transparent, but I am decently versed in Irish folklore, so you'll have that.
The first time I read the Sevenwaters Series, I read the books as they came out. So the stories didn't connect for me. Reading the series one book right after the other has been enlightening and more engaging. I feel more invested in the Sevenwaters family as opposed to the individual love stories. I think I've also learned to stop comparing each book. Now I can embrace every story as a unique part of a grand whole. I loved hearing more about Cathal this time and Ciarian even more so. From 3 stars to 5! Forgive my youth and inexperience Juliet! You are a master at your craft. It was lovingly done and beautifully written.
ORIGINAL REVIEW: December 13, 2010
About a year ago I pre-ordered this book, and with everything but patience, I waited. Marillier, my favorite author of all time, had written a new book. A Sevenwaters book nonetheless! After reading the story, I searched for a word meaning ‘not quite disappointed but less than satisfied.’ Seer of Sevenwaters was a good book. I mean it. The characters were strong, the imagery was stunning, and the language was delightful. Unfortunately I was left wanting. Seer of Sevenwaters had a Marillier feel to it, but it did not feel like a Sevenwaters story. There was truly no comparison between the original trilogy and the latest book. Where the first books laden with family devotion, perilous quests, and gut-wrenching emotion, Seer, I felt, had none. I enjoyed the story very much, but I would describe it as a light read. When I read Daughter of the Forest I wept for the characters and my heart pounded in my chest with uncertainty. I was deeply moved by selfless acts. I felt nothing of these great emotions when reading Seer. It seemed there were no surprises and little passion. Even the mission seemed less than adventurous.
However, I enjoyed following up on the ageing Painted Men very much, and I liked learning about the mysterious Inis Eala. I think too many pages were spent on Cathal, pages that could have been used as character development for Sibeal. Being that it was her story, I would have loved to know more about her. I fell in love with Felix though, a great character.
As I have said before, this was a good story, one that I am sure to read over again. I hope that if my beloved author continues with the Sevenwaters Series, she will take us back to the forest where it all began. I miss those woods. But I know that if I’m in the mood for a Marillier story, and instead of getting my heart torn I want a light enjoyable read, I’ll turn back to Seer of Sevenwaters.
It's been a little over 5 years since I read Seer, and I have been working my way back through the series. After reading the story again, with time and years to my advantage, I feel looking back that I was too critical of Seer. I said it lacked feeling and adventure. This time around, without the burden of expectation, I throughly loved it. The love story unfolded beautifully and moved deeply. Our heroes were brave and selfless and so unlike their series predecessors, that it was captivating in a new unique way. Though the love was never denied, there was more passion in the words left unspoken and embraces unshared than if it were blatantly expressed. The quest was noble and courageous and our characters perfectly flawed. The great mystery was still a bit transparent, but I am decently versed in Irish folklore, so you'll have that.
The first time I read the Sevenwaters Series, I read the books as they came out. So the stories didn't connect for me. Reading the series one book right after the other has been enlightening and more engaging. I feel more invested in the Sevenwaters family as opposed to the individual love stories. I think I've also learned to stop comparing each book. Now I can embrace every story as a unique part of a grand whole. I loved hearing more about Cathal this time and Ciarian even more so. From 3 stars to 5! Forgive my youth and inexperience Juliet! You are a master at your craft. It was lovingly done and beautifully written.
ORIGINAL REVIEW: December 13, 2010
About a year ago I pre-ordered this book, and with everything but patience, I waited. Marillier, my favorite author of all time, had written a new book. A Sevenwaters book nonetheless! After reading the story, I searched for a word meaning ‘not quite disappointed but less than satisfied.’ Seer of Sevenwaters was a good book. I mean it. The characters were strong, the imagery was stunning, and the language was delightful. Unfortunately I was left wanting. Seer of Sevenwaters had a Marillier feel to it, but it did not feel like a Sevenwaters story. There was truly no comparison between the original trilogy and the latest book. Where the first books laden with family devotion, perilous quests, and gut-wrenching emotion, Seer, I felt, had none. I enjoyed the story very much, but I would describe it as a light read. When I read Daughter of the Forest I wept for the characters and my heart pounded in my chest with uncertainty. I was deeply moved by selfless acts. I felt nothing of these great emotions when reading Seer. It seemed there were no surprises and little passion. Even the mission seemed less than adventurous.
However, I enjoyed following up on the ageing Painted Men very much, and I liked learning about the mysterious Inis Eala. I think too many pages were spent on Cathal, pages that could have been used as character development for Sibeal. Being that it was her story, I would have loved to know more about her. I fell in love with Felix though, a great character.
As I have said before, this was a good story, one that I am sure to read over again. I hope that if my beloved author continues with the Sevenwaters Series, she will take us back to the forest where it all began. I miss those woods. But I know that if I’m in the mood for a Marillier story, and instead of getting my heart torn I want a light enjoyable read, I’ll turn back to Seer of Sevenwaters.
September 4, 2017
I find it hard to believe I've finished book 5 in this series, and I'll be leaving this big family behind soon (with book 6).
I really enjoyed this book. Sibeal is wonderful, so calm and strong, and so sure of herself and her vocation as a Druid, not really imagining that she could be missing out on the pleasures of making her own little family. She's been sent tomInis Eala to contemplate, help out, and really consider the next step of her life.
Of course, stuff happens, in the form of a shipwreck at the island, and Sibeal ends up having her faith repeatedly called on to aid the others, while she finds herself gradually wondering whether her vocation is really to be a Druid, thanks to forming relationships with a couple of the survivors.
Juliet Marillier's writing is sensitive and thoughtful, with Sibeal testing herself, all the while insisting she doesn't need the usual life of a family. Sibeal struggles even while she appears outwardly so calm, gradually growing closer to two of the survivors, each of whom appear quite damaged. I found myself tearing up at the novel's close, as Sibeal realizes how much she has matured over her time at Inis Eala, and how much her family loves her.
I really enjoyed this book. Sibeal is wonderful, so calm and strong, and so sure of herself and her vocation as a Druid, not really imagining that she could be missing out on the pleasures of making her own little family. She's been sent tomInis Eala to contemplate, help out, and really consider the next step of her life.
Of course, stuff happens, in the form of a shipwreck at the island, and Sibeal ends up having her faith repeatedly called on to aid the others, while she finds herself gradually wondering whether her vocation is really to be a Druid, thanks to forming relationships with a couple of the survivors.
Juliet Marillier's writing is sensitive and thoughtful, with Sibeal testing herself, all the while insisting she doesn't need the usual life of a family. Sibeal struggles even while she appears outwardly so calm, gradually growing closer to two of the survivors, each of whom appear quite damaged. I found myself tearing up at the novel's close, as Sibeal realizes how much she has matured over her time at Inis Eala, and how much her family loves her.
September 19, 2019
3.5*
Tenía muchas ganas de leer esta quinta entrega por su protagonista Sibeal, un personaje que en los libros anteriores ya me llamaba la atención.
La principal pega en esta ocasión ha sido la lentitud de la primera mitad del libro. Los libros de Marillier son slow-burns y normalmente disfruto mucho de ese ritmo pero en esta ocasión me pareció un poquito demasiado repetitiva esa primera mitad.
Lo que más me ha gustado es ver como los personajes de anteriores libros tienen también su papel en la trama general de la saga Sieteaguas, disfruto mucho viendo cómo les van las cosas.
A un paso del final de esta fantástica serie que me hace sentir como en casa.
Tenía muchas ganas de leer esta quinta entrega por su protagonista Sibeal, un personaje que en los libros anteriores ya me llamaba la atención.
La principal pega en esta ocasión ha sido la lentitud de la primera mitad del libro. Los libros de Marillier son slow-burns y normalmente disfruto mucho de ese ritmo pero en esta ocasión me pareció un poquito demasiado repetitiva esa primera mitad.
Lo que más me ha gustado es ver como los personajes de anteriores libros tienen también su papel en la trama general de la saga Sieteaguas, disfruto mucho viendo cómo les van las cosas.
A un paso del final de esta fantástica serie que me hace sentir como en casa.
November 12, 2021
Let's face it. Nothing can surpass the excellence of the main Sevenwaters trilogy. I knew that I had liked, but not loved, these follow-up companions but I was also so far removed from them, having only read through them one time, plus being so in love with the world, the family, and Marillier's magic and writing, I was biased to like them regardless. But while there's still a lot of greatness to be found in these additions, they don't quite measure up.
That said, there were two parts to SEER OF SEVENWATERS; one, the romance. And two, the mystery of the week, as it were. This one takes something of a break from the over-arcing concern introduced in book four, though it's mentioned in dialogue and worried over, and instead there's a wrong to be set right, a memory to recover, and lies to be revealed. And despite there being a really unlikeable character twisted up in the plot, it might've been my favourite part of this book.
"Is this reserve something they teach you, your Ciarán and his fellows? Always to hold back, always to keep control, never to show the world your true self, a living, breathing woman? Is this what your gods require of you?"
Having said that, though, Marillier did a great job of offering us a romance that was believable from an emotional and intellectual aspect. This is one of the first she's provided that didn't rely on an opposites-attract or hate-to-love or even just reluctant-allies-to-more dynamic. And it's perfectly fitting for Sibeal; nothing else would've worked. So I definitely appreciated it, and the journey that she goes on, as her happily ever after is true to every part of her, without too much compromise. Additionally, the ending of this one gives us a bit of a break in the formula and offers an interesting circumstance to the romance; no spoilers. But did I love them as a pair? Not really. I did, however, love the dual POV; which, due to the nature of Felix's situation, was necessary for the story.
If my life had taken a different path, and I'd wanted a sweetheart, I wouldn't be choosing a warrior, no matter how impressive his fighting skills.
What adds extra delight to this instalment was that it takes place away from Sevenwaters and we get to see, live, and breathe amongst all sorts of colourful characters who have been sprinkled into the last two books. And I love this whole cast and crew with my whole heart.
I'll admit, though, there were two brief moments that Marillier did get me, she caught me in my feels. They weren't the usual devastations and I was spared any sobbing sessions but even in a story that I didn't love, this author still has the power to get to the heart of me.
I'm really looking forward to the final book which, though I'm a broken record at this point, I also don't remember much of -- having only read it, like both previous spinoffs, once before. As we've seen with the finale of her original trilogy, I'm sure there are some twists and turns to endure on the way to the resolution. And I'm really looking forward to some potential heartbreak. Also the Marillier magic. Can't wait.
Thanks go to, as always, the Sevenwaters Squad for another great buddy read.
3.5 stars
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
That said, there were two parts to SEER OF SEVENWATERS; one, the romance. And two, the mystery of the week, as it were. This one takes something of a break from the over-arcing concern introduced in book four, though it's mentioned in dialogue and worried over, and instead there's a wrong to be set right, a memory to recover, and lies to be revealed. And despite there being a really unlikeable character twisted up in the plot, it might've been my favourite part of this book.
"Is this reserve something they teach you, your Ciarán and his fellows? Always to hold back, always to keep control, never to show the world your true self, a living, breathing woman? Is this what your gods require of you?"
Having said that, though, Marillier did a great job of offering us a romance that was believable from an emotional and intellectual aspect. This is one of the first she's provided that didn't rely on an opposites-attract or hate-to-love or even just reluctant-allies-to-more dynamic. And it's perfectly fitting for Sibeal; nothing else would've worked. So I definitely appreciated it, and the journey that she goes on, as her happily ever after is true to every part of her, without too much compromise. Additionally, the ending of this one gives us a bit of a break in the formula and offers an interesting circumstance to the romance; no spoilers. But did I love them as a pair? Not really. I did, however, love the dual POV; which, due to the nature of Felix's situation, was necessary for the story.
If my life had taken a different path, and I'd wanted a sweetheart, I wouldn't be choosing a warrior, no matter how impressive his fighting skills.
What adds extra delight to this instalment was that it takes place away from Sevenwaters and we get to see, live, and breathe amongst all sorts of colourful characters who have been sprinkled into the last two books. And I love this whole cast and crew with my whole heart.
I'll admit, though, there were two brief moments that Marillier did get me, she caught me in my feels. They weren't the usual devastations and I was spared any sobbing sessions but even in a story that I didn't love, this author still has the power to get to the heart of me.
I'm really looking forward to the final book which, though I'm a broken record at this point, I also don't remember much of -- having only read it, like both previous spinoffs, once before. As we've seen with the finale of her original trilogy, I'm sure there are some twists and turns to endure on the way to the resolution. And I'm really looking forward to some potential heartbreak. Also the Marillier magic. Can't wait.
Thanks go to, as always, the Sevenwaters Squad for another great buddy read.
3.5 stars
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
December 6, 2010
Have I outgrown Marillier? Have I become tired of each Sevenwaters female relation finding the love of her life at sixteen? Or has Marillier lost her story-telling ability? She is certainly churning out books much faster than she has in the past, which doesn't bode well, and I think her recent books suffer from a lack of time and effort put into their plots. The original Sevenwaters books, whilst, yes, love stories at their core, still had plenty of subplots, danger, misfortune and magic to make them more than simply romances. This latest in the Sevenwaters series is much less complex than those, with really only one plot-line, and what problems there are never seem to threaten. I believe I said this of the last one, but it was simply all too easy.
I also felt with this story that it had the terrible tendency to slide into sentimentality. I don't think I can handle another Sevenwaters novel where every married couple is just so blissfully in love and producing millions of children. I found myself literally rolling my eyes at a point towards the end, where Sibeal is declaring her love for Felix to her uncle. I mean, please - just say 'I love him', and that should be enough, don't you think?
I also felt with this story that it had the terrible tendency to slide into sentimentality. I don't think I can handle another Sevenwaters novel where every married couple is just so blissfully in love and producing millions of children. I found myself literally rolling my eyes at a point towards the end, where Sibeal is declaring her love for Felix to her uncle. I mean, please - just say 'I love him', and that should be enough, don't you think?
February 24, 2011
Before :
Holy fuck there is going to be a fifth one ?! Well obviously there is , but yeah now I am superr crazy happy ! This is one of my very favorite series , I hope it's more like the first two .. and not the other ones .
After:
I was in no way disappointed in this , it was beyond amazing !! Sibeal got annoying at times , especially towards the end when she was actually going to give Felix up .. But it didn't take away from my love of it in any way ! Lmao . It was great seeing all the characters from previous stories and how their lives have turned out . I don't think I'll love any of her books as much as Daughter of the Forest or Son of the Shadows they're all very necessary and beloved reading though <3 hah . & I would lovee if she wrote more Sevenwaters books !!
Holy fuck there is going to be a fifth one ?! Well obviously there is , but yeah now I am superr crazy happy ! This is one of my very favorite series , I hope it's more like the first two .. and not the other ones .
After:
I was in no way disappointed in this , it was beyond amazing !! Sibeal got annoying at times , especially towards the end when she was actually going to give Felix up .. But it didn't take away from my love of it in any way ! Lmao . It was great seeing all the characters from previous stories and how their lives have turned out . I don't think I'll love any of her books as much as Daughter of the Forest or Son of the Shadows they're all very necessary and beloved reading though <3 hah . & I would lovee if she wrote more Sevenwaters books !!
December 7, 2010
Quiet, intuitive Sibeal has always known she was destined to become a druid. Just when she is on the verge of completing her training, however, her mentor Ciaran bids her spend a summer on Inis Eala, where two of her sisters live and where her cousin Johnny runs a warriors’ school. When a Viking ship is wrecked on Inis Eala’s shores, the resulting events change Sibeal’s life and the lives of everyone on Inis Eala.
There are three survivors of the wreck of Freyja: Knut, a sturdy Norseman who quickly wins friends on the island; Svala, Knut’s wife, who does not speak and behaves most strangely; and Felix, a young scholar with amnesia, whose elusive memories harbor a deadly secret. Sibeal helps nurse Felix back to health and finds herself drawn to him, and for the first time in her life she questions her spiritual vocation.
One can always depend upon a Juliet Marillier book to provide lovely writing, haunting magic, and a sweet, slow-building romance. Longtime fans will also enjoy the reappearance of characters from earlier in the SEVENWATERS series; at this point some of them feel almost like members of the reader’s own family! Marillier makes great use of recurring motifs, both from earlier in Seer of Sevenwaters (e.g. someone being tied up on the ship) and from previous books in the series (Svala, a mute foreigner adrift in a strange land, can’t help but remind one of Daughter of the Forest’s Sorcha — except this time we see the character from the outside, and her secret is a different one).
Roughly the second half of Seer of Sevenwaters is taken up with a dangerous quest. As the need for the quest becomes apparent, Marillier shows us the conflict within the characters of Inis Eala. The central characters are wonderfully honorable people, and it’s that very honor that causes the conflict; they want to do “the right thing,” but what does that mean when there seem to be two “right things?” The men are torn between the necessity of the quest and their desire to stay home and protect their wives and children. The women want to keep their men safely at home, but at the same time, they want their husbands to be the kind of men who will face danger for a good cause. Sibeal knows she too must undertake the journey, and that a difficult choice lies ahead for her as well. The eventual resolution of the adventure is beautiful and in keeping with Celtic mythology. The resolution of Sibeal’s dilemma works well too.
After finishing Seer of Sevenwaters, I wanted to jog my memory about a few plot points from the original SEVENWATERS trilogy, and thumbed back through two of those books. What struck me then was how much less grim Seer of Sevenwaters is. I remembered the beauty and magic of the first three books, but what I had forgotten was how many misfortunes are heaped upon those first three heroines (and other innocents) and how much they suffer before they eventually triumph. While bad things do happen in Seer of Sevenwaters, there is more of a pervasive sense of hope throughout the story. I’m not sure if this reflects a change in me or a change in Marillier’s writing — or if it’s intentional, meant to show that the actions of Sorcha, Liadan, and Fainne gave Sibeal’s generation a better world to live in.
Review originally published on Fantasy Literature's Juliet Marillier page
There are three survivors of the wreck of Freyja: Knut, a sturdy Norseman who quickly wins friends on the island; Svala, Knut’s wife, who does not speak and behaves most strangely; and Felix, a young scholar with amnesia, whose elusive memories harbor a deadly secret. Sibeal helps nurse Felix back to health and finds herself drawn to him, and for the first time in her life she questions her spiritual vocation.
One can always depend upon a Juliet Marillier book to provide lovely writing, haunting magic, and a sweet, slow-building romance. Longtime fans will also enjoy the reappearance of characters from earlier in the SEVENWATERS series; at this point some of them feel almost like members of the reader’s own family! Marillier makes great use of recurring motifs, both from earlier in Seer of Sevenwaters (e.g. someone being tied up on the ship) and from previous books in the series (Svala, a mute foreigner adrift in a strange land, can’t help but remind one of Daughter of the Forest’s Sorcha — except this time we see the character from the outside, and her secret is a different one).
Roughly the second half of Seer of Sevenwaters is taken up with a dangerous quest. As the need for the quest becomes apparent, Marillier shows us the conflict within the characters of Inis Eala. The central characters are wonderfully honorable people, and it’s that very honor that causes the conflict; they want to do “the right thing,” but what does that mean when there seem to be two “right things?” The men are torn between the necessity of the quest and their desire to stay home and protect their wives and children. The women want to keep their men safely at home, but at the same time, they want their husbands to be the kind of men who will face danger for a good cause. Sibeal knows she too must undertake the journey, and that a difficult choice lies ahead for her as well. The eventual resolution of the adventure is beautiful and in keeping with Celtic mythology. The resolution of Sibeal’s dilemma works well too.
After finishing Seer of Sevenwaters, I wanted to jog my memory about a few plot points from the original SEVENWATERS trilogy, and thumbed back through two of those books. What struck me then was how much less grim Seer of Sevenwaters is. I remembered the beauty and magic of the first three books, but what I had forgotten was how many misfortunes are heaped upon those first three heroines (and other innocents) and how much they suffer before they eventually triumph. While bad things do happen in Seer of Sevenwaters, there is more of a pervasive sense of hope throughout the story. I’m not sure if this reflects a change in me or a change in Marillier’s writing — or if it’s intentional, meant to show that the actions of Sorcha, Liadan, and Fainne gave Sibeal’s generation a better world to live in.
Review originally published on Fantasy Literature's Juliet Marillier page
August 3, 2018
I took a bit of a break reading the Sevenwaters series, so it felt good to get back to it. I love Marillier's writing, and the fact that while there is a pattern to her stories, her books always deliver as expected and they don't feel formulaic to me.
Sibeal is an interesting heroine whose introspection forms an integral part of the narrative. While it retains it's essential romantic structure, the book is also in large part a compressed coming of age tale. Sibeal is one of those old souls born into adulthood, but having at last reached the point she must commit to her spiritual vocation as a druid, she finds that she still has things to learn about herself and what it means to be Sibeal the woman, as opposed to Sibeal the druid.
It's interesting that the story takes place on Inis Eala, a place where so many have learned what it means to be needed, to be a friend and husband, and to have a home. Normally it is men who come to Inis Eala for a second chance, but it proves an excellent place for Sibeal to do that as well.
Although ultimately this wasn't my favourite of the many Sevenwaters books, it's still very good and a lovely addition to the series.
Sibeal is an interesting heroine whose introspection forms an integral part of the narrative. While it retains it's essential romantic structure, the book is also in large part a compressed coming of age tale. Sibeal is one of those old souls born into adulthood, but having at last reached the point she must commit to her spiritual vocation as a druid, she finds that she still has things to learn about herself and what it means to be Sibeal the woman, as opposed to Sibeal the druid.
It's interesting that the story takes place on Inis Eala, a place where so many have learned what it means to be needed, to be a friend and husband, and to have a home. Normally it is men who come to Inis Eala for a second chance, but it proves an excellent place for Sibeal to do that as well.
Although ultimately this wasn't my favourite of the many Sevenwaters books, it's still very good and a lovely addition to the series.
October 1, 2017
3,5/5
Más o menos similares impresiones al cuarto libro de la saga, como siempre disfruto un montón de estos libros, especialmente de la ambientación y la atmósfera tan genial, pero esta segunda trilogía le da una importancia exagerada al romance que me carga un poco.
Aún así es una pequeña pega que no impide que siga disfrutando de las historias de la señora Marillier ampliamente
Más o menos similares impresiones al cuarto libro de la saga, como siempre disfruto un montón de estos libros, especialmente de la ambientación y la atmósfera tan genial, pero esta segunda trilogía le da una importancia exagerada al romance que me carga un poco.
Aún así es una pequeña pega que no impide que siga disfrutando de las historias de la señora Marillier ampliamente
September 3, 2022
Not enough of the uncanny in this for me- definitely my least favourite of the Sevenwaters series.
December 24, 2012
Wow I don't even know where to begin with this one... First of all I'm really sorry to have rate a Marillier book a 1 star. I didn't think it was possible but Seer definitely changed my mind on this so much so I'm not looking forward to the last Sevenwaters book and instead am more excited for her other series Shadowfell.
First of all the premise Seer of Sevenwaters isn't exactly very interesting. I know Marillier has a tendency to start her books very slow but seriously the quest that Felix and her embark on only starts in the last 1/4 of the book. Most of the time the entire book is set in Inis Eala with Sibeal taking care of Felix and that's where the next problem lies, the romance between Sibeal and Felix is very strange, abrupt and not believable. I like reading Marillier's romance so I was very disappointed to see how she developed their romance. It's almost insta-love on Felix's part while I just couldn't understand what exactly Sibeal saw in Felix to fall in love with him to the point that she questioned her vocation. The interactions in between the two just didn't make this believable (he was comatose half the time!) which lead me to the other problem was the two POV's were so similar that I couldn't tell whether it was Felix or Sibeal. It's very tricky writing different first person POVs and trying to make them different people. Also while Sibeal as a character is interesting enough to hold her own book, Felix on the other hand is just boring. Unlike Darragh who was missing a great deal from the 3rd book but charming personality and ferocious tenacity made him a strong enough character despite having lack of scenes, Felix on the other hand is just not strong enough to be a romantic lead at all. Absolutely forgettable.
Seer is overall a very disappointing sequel to the Sevenwaters series. In fact my favorite parts of the book involved seeing Cathal (who plays a fairly large role) and also seeing the old characters. If you love Cathal and Clodagh (well mostly Cathal), you may want to read Seer because it features him pretty heavily.
This book should have been re-named the book of Cathal emoing about his heritage with some romance between Sibeal and Felix somewhere out there.
First of all the premise Seer of Sevenwaters isn't exactly very interesting. I know Marillier has a tendency to start her books very slow but seriously the quest that Felix and her embark on only starts in the last 1/4 of the book. Most of the time the entire book is set in Inis Eala with Sibeal taking care of Felix and that's where the next problem lies, the romance between Sibeal and Felix is very strange, abrupt and not believable. I like reading Marillier's romance so I was very disappointed to see how she developed their romance. It's almost insta-love on Felix's part while I just couldn't understand what exactly Sibeal saw in Felix to fall in love with him to the point that she questioned her vocation. The interactions in between the two just didn't make this believable (he was comatose half the time!) which lead me to the other problem was the two POV's were so similar that I couldn't tell whether it was Felix or Sibeal. It's very tricky writing different first person POVs and trying to make them different people. Also while Sibeal as a character is interesting enough to hold her own book, Felix on the other hand is just boring. Unlike Darragh who was missing a great deal from the 3rd book but charming personality and ferocious tenacity made him a strong enough character despite having lack of scenes, Felix on the other hand is just not strong enough to be a romantic lead at all. Absolutely forgettable.
Seer is overall a very disappointing sequel to the Sevenwaters series. In fact my favorite parts of the book involved seeing Cathal (who plays a fairly large role) and also seeing the old characters. If you love Cathal and Clodagh (well mostly Cathal), you may want to read Seer because it features him pretty heavily.
This book should have been re-named the book of Cathal emoing about his heritage with some romance between Sibeal and Felix somewhere out there.
June 17, 2024
3.5 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
“What is between us is as deep as the earth, as wide as the sky, as boundless as the great ocean. To deny it is to deny the turning of the seasons, the ebb and flow of the tide, the journeys of sun and moon.”
Seer of Sevenwaters is the penultimate installment in the Sevenwaters series and this time it follows the fifth daughter of the Lord of Sevenwaters, Sibeal.
Sibeal is a druid-in-the-making set on a spiritual path since she was 12-years old. For her age, she has exceptional power and a strong will, but even those can be overwhelming. It's been decided that before she takes a vow to enter the Sevenwaters nemetons, she is sent on a quest by her mentor to spend the summer at Inis Eala as it might help settle her overflowing Seer's gift.
Inis Eala is not strange place to Sibeal, it's a community led by her Cousin and two of her older sisters live among the folk there. However, as soon as Sibeal arrives she is met with an unfortunate event of a shipwreck claiming the lives of most who were on the ship. Through desperate efforts, three were saved and Sibeal finds herself drawn to one of the survivors.
Each survivor seems to to be veiled in mystery, Sibeal and the folk of Inis Eala are determined to uncover the truth of what happened and that could lead to a bigger mystery none of them anticipated.
As with the previous installments, this one is tinged with a classic myth reimagining and tragedy—but what this book suffered from is the almost stagnant pacing of the first half.
I was invested and I believe the epic adventure could've began much earlier and we could've learned more about the clues and lore that would have made this book much more entertaining. I was still struck by a flood of emotions in the last quarter, and I guessed the twist in the story but it was still rewarding to see the resolution. I can't say I disliked the book because I didn't, I just think Marillier dragged the story a bit and with the chapters in her books being long it's hard to push through the slow pacing.
I adored Sibeal and enjoyed seeing glimpses of her power. She was in content torment between what her heart desired and her spiritual duty as a Druid.
Felix is the one who I needed more time to warm up to. Maybe because his insomnia just kept a big part of him a mystery so it didn't feel like I knew the character until the pieces started to fit together.
I adore the folk of Inis Eala and don't mind seeing more of them, especially if I get more of Johnny and Gareth. Clodagh and Cathay own my heart so I was delighted to see them!
To sum it up, probably my least favorite title in the series (I still have Flame of Sevenwaters to read), I don't dislike it I just wished I got more out of the story because it had incredible potential with the type of story it followed.
Content warning: death, implied abuse, violence, mention of kidnapping.
“What is between us is as deep as the earth, as wide as the sky, as boundless as the great ocean. To deny it is to deny the turning of the seasons, the ebb and flow of the tide, the journeys of sun and moon.”
Seer of Sevenwaters is the penultimate installment in the Sevenwaters series and this time it follows the fifth daughter of the Lord of Sevenwaters, Sibeal.
Sibeal is a druid-in-the-making set on a spiritual path since she was 12-years old. For her age, she has exceptional power and a strong will, but even those can be overwhelming. It's been decided that before she takes a vow to enter the Sevenwaters nemetons, she is sent on a quest by her mentor to spend the summer at Inis Eala as it might help settle her overflowing Seer's gift.
Inis Eala is not strange place to Sibeal, it's a community led by her Cousin and two of her older sisters live among the folk there. However, as soon as Sibeal arrives she is met with an unfortunate event of a shipwreck claiming the lives of most who were on the ship. Through desperate efforts, three were saved and Sibeal finds herself drawn to one of the survivors.
Each survivor seems to to be veiled in mystery, Sibeal and the folk of Inis Eala are determined to uncover the truth of what happened and that could lead to a bigger mystery none of them anticipated.
As with the previous installments, this one is tinged with a classic myth reimagining and tragedy—but what this book suffered from is the almost stagnant pacing of the first half.
I was invested and I believe the epic adventure could've began much earlier and we could've learned more about the clues and lore that would have made this book much more entertaining. I was still struck by a flood of emotions in the last quarter, and I guessed the twist in the story but it was still rewarding to see the resolution. I can't say I disliked the book because I didn't, I just think Marillier dragged the story a bit and with the chapters in her books being long it's hard to push through the slow pacing.
I adored Sibeal and enjoyed seeing glimpses of her power. She was in content torment between what her heart desired and her spiritual duty as a Druid.
Felix is the one who I needed more time to warm up to. Maybe because his insomnia just kept a big part of him a mystery so it didn't feel like I knew the character until the pieces started to fit together.
I adore the folk of Inis Eala and don't mind seeing more of them, especially if I get more of Johnny and Gareth. Clodagh and Cathay own my heart so I was delighted to see them!
To sum it up, probably my least favorite title in the series (I still have Flame of Sevenwaters to read), I don't dislike it I just wished I got more out of the story because it had incredible potential with the type of story it followed.
Content warning: death, implied abuse, violence, mention of kidnapping.
April 18, 2018
Farewell, my mother and my home
Farewell my sisters three
For I am bound for oceans far
And isles of mystery.
In my review of the fourth part I wrote that I was expecting something more in the next, after reading this book, I can say that there is this something more in it. The most "oceanic" book of the series has a very promising start. A mysterious wreck that its survivors seem to hide a lot of things and of course something that looks like the beginning of a love affair, but given with more than one point of views, which creates the conditions for a beautiful result. The first element, as the pages progress, leads us to the mythical mysteries of the northern seas, the second leads us to an erotic story full of tenderness. In the end, an exciting sea adventure leads to the climax, the solution of the mystery and the difficult decision about the future of a love that is in conflict with duty.
So we have another book that combines adventure in a martial culture with a love story. In the first I think the writer does better work than in any book in the series, writing a truly fascinating story whose peak is breathtaking. And in the love part, the result is just as good, I really enjoyed the story of our shy heroine (who is constantly blushing) who feels for the first time the strong feelings of love and reacts in an incredibly cute way. Also our hero is not lucking romanticism and, as we have his own point of view, we hear him adorning his beloved with beautiful words, giving a very poetic tone that culminates when we get to the end.
Certainly the book does not escape the recipe of the previous ones and it does not very original at any point, including the plot as most of its elements have encountered them in other works. Even more certain, however, is that it has the ability to lure emotionally everyone who read it when is well-intentioned, and because I'm in such a mood I'm content with it.
Στην κριτική μου για το τέταρτο μέρος είχα γράψει ότι περίμενα κάτι παραπάνω στη συνέχεια, μετά την ανάγνωση αυτού του βιβλίου μπορώ να πω ότι σε αυτό υπάρχει αυτό το κάτι παραπάνω. Το πιο θαλασσινό βιβλίο της σειράς έχει ένα πολλά υποσχόμενο ξεκίνημα. Ένα μυστηριώδες ναυάγιο που οι επιζώντες του φαίνεται πολλά να κρύβουν και φυσικά κάτι που μοιάζει για το ξεκίνημα ενός έρωτα, δοσμένο όμως από περισσότερες από μία οπτικές γωνίες, κάτι που δημιουργεί τις προϋποθέσεις για ένα όμορφο αποτέλεσμα. Το πρώτο στοιχείο, καθώς προχωράνε οι σελίδες, μας οδηγεί στα μυθικά μυστήρια των βόρειων θαλασσών, το δεύτερο μας οδηγεί σε μία ερωτική ιστορία γεμάτη τρυφερότητα. Στο τέλος μία συναρπαστική θαλασσινή περιπέτεια οδηγεί στην κορύφωση, με τη λύση του μυστηρίου αλλά και την δύσκολη απόφαση για το μέλλον ενός έρωτα που έρχεται αντιμέτωπος με το καθήκον.
Οπότε έχουμε άλλο ένα βιβλίο που συνδυάζει την περιπέτεια σε μία πολεμική κουλτούρα μία ερωτική ιστορία. Στο πρώτο νομίζω ότι η συγγραφέας τα καταφέρνει καλύτερα από κάθε βιβλίο της σειράς, γράφοντας μία πραγματικά συναρπαστική ιστορία η κορύφωση της οποίας κόβει την ανάσα. Και στο ερωτικό κομμάτι, όμως, το αποτέλεσμα είναι εξίσου πάρα πολύ καλό, πραγματικά απόλαυσα ιδιαίτερα την ιστορία της ντροπαλής ηρωίδας μας (που μονίμως κοκκινίζει) που νιώθει για πρώτη φορά τα ισχυρά συναισθήματα του έρωτα και αντιδρά με έναν τρόπο απίστευτα χαριτωμένο. Και ο ήρωας μας, όμως, δεν πάει πίσω και καθώς έχουμε και τη δική του οπτική γωνία τον ακούμε να στολίζει με όμορφα λόγια την αγαπημένη του, δίνοντας έτσι έναν τόνο πολύ ποιητικό που κορυφώνεται όταν φτάνουμε στο τέλος.
Σίγουρα το βιβλίο δεν ξεφεύγει από τη συνταγή των προηγούμενων και δεν αυτός πρωτοτυπεί σε κανένα σημείο συμπεριλαμβανομένης και της ίδιας της πλοκής πού στοιχεία της έχουμε συναντήσει και σε άλλα έργα. Ακόμα πιο σίγουρο, όμως, ότι έχει την ικανότητα να παρασύρει συναισθηματικά οποίον το διαβάσει καλοπροαίρετα και επειδή εγώ με τέτοια διάθεση το διάβασα σίγουρα με αφήνει ικανοποιημένο, ίσως και κάτι παραπάνω.
Farewell my sisters three
For I am bound for oceans far
And isles of mystery.
In my review of the fourth part I wrote that I was expecting something more in the next, after reading this book, I can say that there is this something more in it. The most "oceanic" book of the series has a very promising start. A mysterious wreck that its survivors seem to hide a lot of things and of course something that looks like the beginning of a love affair, but given with more than one point of views, which creates the conditions for a beautiful result. The first element, as the pages progress, leads us to the mythical mysteries of the northern seas, the second leads us to an erotic story full of tenderness. In the end, an exciting sea adventure leads to the climax, the solution of the mystery and the difficult decision about the future of a love that is in conflict with duty.
So we have another book that combines adventure in a martial culture with a love story. In the first I think the writer does better work than in any book in the series, writing a truly fascinating story whose peak is breathtaking. And in the love part, the result is just as good, I really enjoyed the story of our shy heroine (who is constantly blushing) who feels for the first time the strong feelings of love and reacts in an incredibly cute way. Also our hero is not lucking romanticism and, as we have his own point of view, we hear him adorning his beloved with beautiful words, giving a very poetic tone that culminates when we get to the end.
Certainly the book does not escape the recipe of the previous ones and it does not very original at any point, including the plot as most of its elements have encountered them in other works. Even more certain, however, is that it has the ability to lure emotionally everyone who read it when is well-intentioned, and because I'm in such a mood I'm content with it.
"I had grown up. I had learned that being a woman was knowing when to stand firm and when to compromise. I had learned to laugh and weep; I had learned that I was weak as well as strong. I had learned to love. I was no longer a rigid, upright tree that would not flex and bow, even though the gale threatened to snap it in two; I was the willow that bends and shivers and sways, and yet remains strong."
Στην κριτική μου για το τέταρτο μέρος είχα γράψει ότι περίμενα κάτι παραπάνω στη συνέχεια, μετά την ανάγνωση αυτού του βιβλίου μπορώ να πω ότι σε αυτό υπάρχει αυτό το κάτι παραπάνω. Το πιο θαλασσινό βιβλίο της σειράς έχει ένα πολλά υποσχόμενο ξεκίνημα. Ένα μυστηριώδες ναυάγιο που οι επιζώντες του φαίνεται πολλά να κρύβουν και φυσικά κάτι που μοιάζει για το ξεκίνημα ενός έρωτα, δοσμένο όμως από περισσότερες από μία οπτικές γωνίες, κάτι που δημιουργεί τις προϋποθέσεις για ένα όμορφο αποτέλεσμα. Το πρώτο στοιχείο, καθώς προχωράνε οι σελίδες, μας οδηγεί στα μυθικά μυστήρια των βόρειων θαλασσών, το δεύτερο μας οδηγεί σε μία ερωτική ιστορία γεμάτη τρυφερότητα. Στο τέλος μία συναρπαστική θαλασσινή περιπέτεια οδηγεί στην κορύφωση, με τη λύση του μυστηρίου αλλά και την δύσκολη απόφαση για το μέλλον ενός έρωτα που έρχεται αντιμέτωπος με το καθήκον.
Οπότε έχουμε άλλο ένα βιβλίο που συνδυάζει την περιπέτεια σε μία πολεμική κουλτούρα μία ερωτική ιστορία. Στο πρώτο νομίζω ότι η συγγραφέας τα καταφέρνει καλύτερα από κάθε βιβλίο της σειράς, γράφοντας μία πραγματικά συναρπαστική ιστορία η κορύφωση της οποίας κόβει την ανάσα. Και στο ερωτικό κομμάτι, όμως, το αποτέλεσμα είναι εξίσου πάρα πολύ καλό, πραγματικά απόλαυσα ιδιαίτερα την ιστορία της ντροπαλής ηρωίδας μας (που μονίμως κοκκινίζει) που νιώθει για πρώτη φορά τα ισχυρά συναισθήματα του έρωτα και αντιδρά με έναν τρόπο απίστευτα χαριτωμένο. Και ο ήρωας μας, όμως, δεν πάει πίσω και καθώς έχουμε και τη δική του οπτική γωνία τον ακούμε να στολίζει με όμορφα λόγια την αγαπημένη του, δίνοντας έτσι έναν τόνο πολύ ποιητικό που κορυφώνεται όταν φτάνουμε στο τέλος.
Σίγουρα το βιβλίο δεν ξεφεύγει από τη συνταγή των προηγούμενων και δεν αυτός πρωτοτυπεί σε κανένα σημείο συμπεριλαμβανομένης και της ίδιας της πλοκής πού στοιχεία της έχουμε συναντήσει και σε άλλα έργα. Ακόμα πιο σίγουρο, όμως, ότι έχει την ικανότητα να παρασύρει συναισθηματικά οποίον το διαβάσει καλοπροαίρετα και επειδή εγώ με τέτοια διάθεση το διάβασα σίγουρα με αφήνει ικανοποιημένο, ίσως και κάτι παραπάνω.
February 21, 2015
**english review**
And Marillier does it again. Writes to sweep her readers off their feet, and crave for more. (Moooore. Moooooore.) Seer was a lovely comeback to Sevenwaters, or shall I say, to its characters, because this time the Sevenwaters forest will be present only in Sibeal’s thoughts and tales to help Felix get better. Does the story loses its magic because of it? Not at all. It is my deepest belief Juliet could send any of these characters to the most exotic places and the Sevenwaters magic would still be there, because it lives in them, in the love that clearly shows when a character thinks or speaks of the forest, tells the story of the brothers turned into swans, or that one about the girl who saved the Painted Man (and so on). But Sibeal doesn’t even go that far, and Inis Eala with Johnny, Clodagh, Muirrin, Cathal, Gull, and so many others, can surely be called home.
Seer’s tale starts in the island, with Sibeal managing between her druid’s tasks, and –to the reader’s rejoice– helping Felix restore his health; but later there’s a rescue mission that requires a group to get on a ship, sail through unknown waters, reach an unknown place, home of a legendary seamonster, and save a few of Felix’s comrades. I won’t say the boat trip was my favorite part (because my favorite part was the WHOLE book), but it was the one that kept me reading all night, until morning. I loved Juliet’s take on the seamonster myth (I can’t say more or I’ll spoil it, and I don’t want to) and how she portrayed the creature. Sometimes I seem to forget that it’s so like her to make the reader see the other side of a story, a character, and even of a terrifying, men-eating beast.
Prior to my reading, with only the synopsis for support –Sibeal+Viking shipwreck– I often thought Seer sounded like a cross between Sevenwaters and The Light Isles. Now if someone asks me, I’ll probably be a little more specific and say it’s kind of a cross between Son of the Shadows and Wolfskin, first because there is a man in need of rescue from a dark place, this time called loss of memory/physical limitations/feeling guilty/am I brave enough?/can I do this?; second, because besides the fact that for obvious reasons the couple kept reminding me of Nessa and Eyvind -when he’s sick and she takes care of him, Sibeal also sent me the Nessa vibe when she goes through a inner war to make the choice between her religious call and her heart. But that’s not all, I also think Seer has a very mysterious storyline, from beginning to end, which at times, reminded me of some thrilling (chilling *scary*) Wolfskin moments.
Still about the couple: as always, it was delicious (really, this is the word for it) to witness their relationship grow, slowly, tenderly, and this particular set amused me greatly because they are the “nerdiest” of Juliet’s couples until date, with Sibeal being a druid, and Felix a scholar (and a poet!) – and don’t I love nerds and geeks so. (I really do :D )
About everyone else: it was delightful to meet those beloved characters from previous books again, but I’ll admit some reencounters were quite, quite painful; on the other hand, almost everyone provided me with laughing out loud scenes, being Gull, Cathal and Clodagh clearly in the leadership – I wasn’t expecting for them to be so active in this one, so it was a good surprise.
I say this all the time, and I’ll say it again: I’ll never be capable to put into words just how much I love this author and every single sentence she writes. Never. No praise is or will ever seem enough, simply because she’s beyond it. Her stories and writing go further than everything I have in high esteem. Her books, to me, are prized treasures I keep both on my bookshelf and in my heart. I do believe she knows, and at the same time doesn’t (fully), the precious gift she presents me -and I presume, all of the other fans- with, when a new book comes out, and everytime I look at my Marillier collection I immediately feel the need to somehow tell her thank you, thank you, THANK YOU. So, to finish, and as I gaze upon my Seer, I’ll just say this: thank you master storyteller, thank you queen of historical fantasy, thank you beautiful, kind, and much cherished lady, thank you for sharing your wisdom, your craft and your heart, once again, with all of us.
Review also at Cuidado com o Dálmata - Seer of Sevenwaters
And Marillier does it again. Writes to sweep her readers off their feet, and crave for more. (Moooore. Moooooore.) Seer was a lovely comeback to Sevenwaters, or shall I say, to its characters, because this time the Sevenwaters forest will be present only in Sibeal’s thoughts and tales to help Felix get better. Does the story loses its magic because of it? Not at all. It is my deepest belief Juliet could send any of these characters to the most exotic places and the Sevenwaters magic would still be there, because it lives in them, in the love that clearly shows when a character thinks or speaks of the forest, tells the story of the brothers turned into swans, or that one about the girl who saved the Painted Man (and so on). But Sibeal doesn’t even go that far, and Inis Eala with Johnny, Clodagh, Muirrin, Cathal, Gull, and so many others, can surely be called home.
Seer’s tale starts in the island, with Sibeal managing between her druid’s tasks, and –to the reader’s rejoice– helping Felix restore his health; but later there’s a rescue mission that requires a group to get on a ship, sail through unknown waters, reach an unknown place, home of a legendary seamonster, and save a few of Felix’s comrades. I won’t say the boat trip was my favorite part (because my favorite part was the WHOLE book), but it was the one that kept me reading all night, until morning. I loved Juliet’s take on the seamonster myth (I can’t say more or I’ll spoil it, and I don’t want to) and how she portrayed the creature. Sometimes I seem to forget that it’s so like her to make the reader see the other side of a story, a character, and even of a terrifying, men-eating beast.
Prior to my reading, with only the synopsis for support –Sibeal+Viking shipwreck– I often thought Seer sounded like a cross between Sevenwaters and The Light Isles. Now if someone asks me, I’ll probably be a little more specific and say it’s kind of a cross between Son of the Shadows and Wolfskin, first because there is a man in need of rescue from a dark place, this time called loss of memory/physical limitations/feeling guilty/am I brave enough?/can I do this?; second, because besides the fact that for obvious reasons the couple kept reminding me of Nessa and Eyvind -when he’s sick and she takes care of him, Sibeal also sent me the Nessa vibe when she goes through a inner war to make the choice between her religious call and her heart. But that’s not all, I also think Seer has a very mysterious storyline, from beginning to end, which at times, reminded me of some thrilling (chilling *scary*) Wolfskin moments.
Still about the couple: as always, it was delicious (really, this is the word for it) to witness their relationship grow, slowly, tenderly, and this particular set amused me greatly because they are the “nerdiest” of Juliet’s couples until date, with Sibeal being a druid, and Felix a scholar (and a poet!) – and don’t I love nerds and geeks so. (I really do :D )
About everyone else: it was delightful to meet those beloved characters from previous books again, but I’ll admit some reencounters were quite, quite painful; on the other hand, almost everyone provided me with laughing out loud scenes, being Gull, Cathal and Clodagh clearly in the leadership – I wasn’t expecting for them to be so active in this one, so it was a good surprise.
I say this all the time, and I’ll say it again: I’ll never be capable to put into words just how much I love this author and every single sentence she writes. Never. No praise is or will ever seem enough, simply because she’s beyond it. Her stories and writing go further than everything I have in high esteem. Her books, to me, are prized treasures I keep both on my bookshelf and in my heart. I do believe she knows, and at the same time doesn’t (fully), the precious gift she presents me -and I presume, all of the other fans- with, when a new book comes out, and everytime I look at my Marillier collection I immediately feel the need to somehow tell her thank you, thank you, THANK YOU. So, to finish, and as I gaze upon my Seer, I’ll just say this: thank you master storyteller, thank you queen of historical fantasy, thank you beautiful, kind, and much cherished lady, thank you for sharing your wisdom, your craft and your heart, once again, with all of us.
Review also at Cuidado com o Dálmata - Seer of Sevenwaters
January 20, 2018
This is the first Juliet Marillier book that I have given less than 5 stars. It was still fantastic like all her others - great characters, action packed with the beautiful setting of Celtic lore (and this one included Norse mythology as well).
The only reason it lost a star was because I found the pacing in this one a little slow for the first two thirds of the book. It’s also the first time I wasn’t 100% invested in the romance.
It was still an amazing story and I look forward to reading the next instalment which will finish off this series.
The only reason it lost a star was because I found the pacing in this one a little slow for the first two thirds of the book. It’s also the first time I wasn’t 100% invested in the romance.
It was still an amazing story and I look forward to reading the next instalment which will finish off this series.
July 16, 2013
Seer of Sevenwaters is a novel that seems deceptively easy to love on the outside, but the novel that lies within the pages of the cover and its synopsis is harder to form an attachment to. Now, that isn't to say that this story isn't beautiful and gripping, as every Sevenwaters tale is, for it is. And yet, at the same time, despite its sea monsters and memory loss, despite its strangers and sea tides, Seer of Sevenwaters leaves something to be desired in the wake of its predecessors, each more stunning than the next.
Sibeal, unlike the past heroines, is not someone I found myself very attached to or interested in. On one hand, her journey is perhaps the most interesting. Sibeal finds herself with her elder sister, Clodagh, on the island where her cousin, Johnny, trains his men. It is her last summer before she becomes a druid and although her faith is strong and she is prepared, Ciaran sends her to spend the summer on the island nevertheless. Within the first week she arrives, though, a ship is wrecked on the shore with only a few survivors. As Sibeal helps to care for the man she names Ardal, she begins to realize that the man has lost his memory. When he does finally regain it, though, the tale he has to tale is one so fantastical it is nearly impossible to believe. And the journey Sibeal will take because of it will change her life, and her calling, forever.
Seer of Sevenwaters is, in some ways, one of the best novels Marillier has written. In the Sevenwaters Saga, it is the only novel – so far – that features a male perspective and seeing Ardal’s narration definitely helped the novel. At the same time, though, it is probably the only book in the series that needs another narrator. Sibeal is a strong character, fierce in her devotion to the gods and unwavering in her loyalty and love. Yet, as a druid, she is forced to be calm, to keep her emotions in check, and that shows through the dullness of her narration at times. Furthermore, it is impossible to feel anything but distant and apart from Sibeal. While I sympathized with her warring feelings as she battled through an inner struggle between a life of physical love and a life of spiritual love, I cannot claim to have felt one with her as I did with each of the Sevenwaters women before.
Still, that hardly says much for this book is still stunning in every way. Ardal and Sibeal’s romance broke my heart, mostly because it is based on the most simple of human virtues. Kindness. Comfort. Peace. Understanding. Ardal and Sibeal hardly know one another, but through nursing him, Sibeal begins to realize that this is a man she can trust, one who will lend her his ear instead of his voice. Ardal, too, begins to see Sibeal as a savior, of sorts, as a light during his dark times. In every way, they are a perfect complement to one another and their path to love is bittersweet, but rewarding. It is with Ardal that Sibeal breaks from her stoic druid shell and in those scenes I felt a greater connection with her. If only it was that Sibeal we saw throughout the entirety of the novel.
Sibeal aside, the strangers who are shipwrecked onto the island bring a story of their own and the eventual journey that occurs in the novel as a result of them is incredible. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that Seer of Sevenwaters is more plot-based than character-driven. A little like Son of the Shadows was, though not quite. Every scene in this novel builds to an eventual climax and the unraveling of a mystery is most unusual to see in a Marillier novel, but still extremely interesting and, as always, well-written. I cannot deny, though, my favorite parts of this novel were the glimpses of Cathal. (I almost feel guilty for falling in love with someone else's husband, but then I remember they're all fictional and all my guilt disappears...). From Heir to Sevenwaters, it was clear Cathal would play a large role in the rest of the series and his continued importance is a source of joy, for me at least. I cannot wait to see how his character keeps growing and changing, especially in preparation for – what I assume will be – the final showdown with his father in the concluding novel of this series.
Sadly, I have to admit that Seer of Sevenwaters is perhaps the weakest, for me, of the series yet. I enjoyed this novel immensely; there is no denying that, but not as much as its predecessors. It was a chore to get through some chapters and, honestly, it was the secondary characters that shone in this. Perhaps I am so harsh on Sibeal and her journey because I have seen Nessa, from Marillier’s Wolfskin, undergo a similar inner battle and face that struggle with more depth than Sibeal was allotted. Whatever it is, Seer of Sevenwaters is an essential novel for the series as a whole and its glimpses into important secondary characters – Ciaran, especially – make it an essential and worthy read. It is hard to believe that I am nearly finished with this series, but I suppose that, at some point, all good things really must come to an end.
Sibeal, unlike the past heroines, is not someone I found myself very attached to or interested in. On one hand, her journey is perhaps the most interesting. Sibeal finds herself with her elder sister, Clodagh, on the island where her cousin, Johnny, trains his men. It is her last summer before she becomes a druid and although her faith is strong and she is prepared, Ciaran sends her to spend the summer on the island nevertheless. Within the first week she arrives, though, a ship is wrecked on the shore with only a few survivors. As Sibeal helps to care for the man she names Ardal, she begins to realize that the man has lost his memory. When he does finally regain it, though, the tale he has to tale is one so fantastical it is nearly impossible to believe. And the journey Sibeal will take because of it will change her life, and her calling, forever.
Seer of Sevenwaters is, in some ways, one of the best novels Marillier has written. In the Sevenwaters Saga, it is the only novel – so far – that features a male perspective and seeing Ardal’s narration definitely helped the novel. At the same time, though, it is probably the only book in the series that needs another narrator. Sibeal is a strong character, fierce in her devotion to the gods and unwavering in her loyalty and love. Yet, as a druid, she is forced to be calm, to keep her emotions in check, and that shows through the dullness of her narration at times. Furthermore, it is impossible to feel anything but distant and apart from Sibeal. While I sympathized with her warring feelings as she battled through an inner struggle between a life of physical love and a life of spiritual love, I cannot claim to have felt one with her as I did with each of the Sevenwaters women before.
Still, that hardly says much for this book is still stunning in every way. Ardal and Sibeal’s romance broke my heart, mostly because it is based on the most simple of human virtues. Kindness. Comfort. Peace. Understanding. Ardal and Sibeal hardly know one another, but through nursing him, Sibeal begins to realize that this is a man she can trust, one who will lend her his ear instead of his voice. Ardal, too, begins to see Sibeal as a savior, of sorts, as a light during his dark times. In every way, they are a perfect complement to one another and their path to love is bittersweet, but rewarding. It is with Ardal that Sibeal breaks from her stoic druid shell and in those scenes I felt a greater connection with her. If only it was that Sibeal we saw throughout the entirety of the novel.
Sibeal aside, the strangers who are shipwrecked onto the island bring a story of their own and the eventual journey that occurs in the novel as a result of them is incredible. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that Seer of Sevenwaters is more plot-based than character-driven. A little like Son of the Shadows was, though not quite. Every scene in this novel builds to an eventual climax and the unraveling of a mystery is most unusual to see in a Marillier novel, but still extremely interesting and, as always, well-written. I cannot deny, though, my favorite parts of this novel were the glimpses of Cathal. (I almost feel guilty for falling in love with someone else's husband, but then I remember they're all fictional and all my guilt disappears...). From Heir to Sevenwaters, it was clear Cathal would play a large role in the rest of the series and his continued importance is a source of joy, for me at least. I cannot wait to see how his character keeps growing and changing, especially in preparation for – what I assume will be – the final showdown with his father in the concluding novel of this series.
Sadly, I have to admit that Seer of Sevenwaters is perhaps the weakest, for me, of the series yet. I enjoyed this novel immensely; there is no denying that, but not as much as its predecessors. It was a chore to get through some chapters and, honestly, it was the secondary characters that shone in this. Perhaps I am so harsh on Sibeal and her journey because I have seen Nessa, from Marillier’s Wolfskin, undergo a similar inner battle and face that struggle with more depth than Sibeal was allotted. Whatever it is, Seer of Sevenwaters is an essential novel for the series as a whole and its glimpses into important secondary characters – Ciaran, especially – make it an essential and worthy read. It is hard to believe that I am nearly finished with this series, but I suppose that, at some point, all good things really must come to an end.
August 30, 2020
Finalmente pude terminarlo!
A mitad del libro entré en bloqueo lector, además que estaba muy lenta la historia.
Igual me parece pésima decisión que la acción comenzara cuando ya llevaba 70% del libro, además que muchas situaciones y conversaciones eran muy reiterativas.
No lo disfruté tanto como otros de la saga, pero aún así me gustó.
A mitad del libro entré en bloqueo lector, además que estaba muy lenta la historia.
Igual me parece pésima decisión que la acción comenzara cuando ya llevaba 70% del libro, además que muchas situaciones y conversaciones eran muy reiterativas.
No lo disfruté tanto como otros de la saga, pero aún así me gustó.
February 1, 2011
Seer of Sevenwaters did not capture me as the previous Sevenwaters books did. I didn't feel swept away; caught up in the story. There was no overwhelming emotion. My heart did not pound of excitement or fear. I found that Sibeal reminded me of previous characters, with bits and pieces of traits taken from others. The plot was fine, however I did not find myself drawn to the book. I also felt that the romance between Felix and Sibeal a bit lack luster. It was unbelievable how quickly Felix fell in love with Sibeal. It was almost at first sighting. And I think that this made me not believe in the chemistry between the two. The relationship was not well developed as in previous books. Furthermore, I felt that the book was not as focused on the two protagonists of the story. Many side characters were introduced, which may have drawn away from feeling the connection to both Sibeal and Felix. At times I even became confused as to who was talking. Yes, I love romance, however I found it a bit frustrating how characters would continually remark upon Sibeal not having a man in her life. And how by becoming a druid, she was giving up a lot. There are many references to this. It's as if she will live a life unfulfilled unless she is married. I found this to be a bit unfair. There were also similarities in situations between this book and another. For example, Cathal warning Felix to not harm his family, vs Liadan warning Fainne. The ending also seemed to be wrapped up a little bit too neatly. There were also things that I did like about the novel. I really enjoyed reading about the other family members, and seeing the Painted Men again. I loved seeing the camaraderie of Inis Eala.
It seems that there will be more books to come, and I do hope that it returns to the world of Sevenwaters that I have come to love.
It seems that there will be more books to come, and I do hope that it returns to the world of Sevenwaters that I have come to love.
November 23, 2021
3.5 stars
Headlines:
Couple connection
Sea monsters
Slow pacing
Overall Seer of Sevenwaters was a solid installment in the series but there are a bunch of reasons why I didn't enjoy it as much as some of the others. Sibeal was a likeable and intriguing main character but I didn't love her. She did have great character growth later on, though. The strongest thing about this book was the connection between this 'couple', Sibeal and Felix but oh, I needed more expression/communication of the strong feelings they had. It was all inner feeling.
"...we're like wind and rain, like leaf and flower.."
I enjoyed the context of sea monsters even if I found that plotline somewhat predictable from the off. However, the execution of the culmination of that plot was so slow moving and detailed in execution, I wanted to press the 1.5 speed button.
Getting to see life on Inis Eala after hearing much about it on previous books was a welcome insight. I liked spending time with Gull and Johnny again. Fans of the previous book will be glad to hear we got plenty of Clodagh and Cathal too.
While this wasn't my favourite of the series, it was likeable and at least I didn't hate any characters as per book three. I'm hoping for a strong finish when we tackle the final book next month.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
Headlines:
Couple connection
Sea monsters
Slow pacing
Overall Seer of Sevenwaters was a solid installment in the series but there are a bunch of reasons why I didn't enjoy it as much as some of the others. Sibeal was a likeable and intriguing main character but I didn't love her. She did have great character growth later on, though. The strongest thing about this book was the connection between this 'couple', Sibeal and Felix but oh, I needed more expression/communication of the strong feelings they had. It was all inner feeling.
"...we're like wind and rain, like leaf and flower.."
I enjoyed the context of sea monsters even if I found that plotline somewhat predictable from the off. However, the execution of the culmination of that plot was so slow moving and detailed in execution, I wanted to press the 1.5 speed button.
Getting to see life on Inis Eala after hearing much about it on previous books was a welcome insight. I liked spending time with Gull and Johnny again. Fans of the previous book will be glad to hear we got plenty of Clodagh and Cathal too.
While this wasn't my favourite of the series, it was likeable and at least I didn't hate any characters as per book three. I'm hoping for a strong finish when we tackle the final book next month.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
October 11, 2017
“You thought you’d never give up your vocation, a voice whispered inside me. You thought you’d never even consider it. But you’ve met the one man who could change your mind. He is your perfect complement. He is Cathal to your Clodagh; he is Bran to your Liadan. No wonder you conjured up those images. No wonder they make you weep.”
December 21, 2010
Having been a fan of Juliet Marillier for many years, and absolutely loving the Sevenwaters books, I wasn't as excited about this one as I have been in the past. The ending was a little pat and predictable; there wasn't that sense of danger and desperation throughout the book that makes a triumphant ending all the more of a relief; this read more like a romance, minus the sex, than anything. The characters this book centered around were bland. Even their situations weren't that interesting. None of it was a surprise- not Knut, not Svala, not anything or anyone. It was disappointing. And really? I felt like she used so. many. words. to get the most basic points across. "I love her" became half a page of overly sappy declaratives, like "we are as timeless as the moon is to the sea and the sun with the birds flying and unicorns with glitter and the ocean! our love is as boundless as the restless sea and as verdant as the big green forest and all of its creatures and stuff!" or something like that. It was almost TOO pretty.
PLEASE don't let the Sevenwaters stories end with this one, on this note. Please let it go back to being awesome. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE.
PLEASE don't let the Sevenwaters stories end with this one, on this note. Please let it go back to being awesome. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE.
August 24, 2016
(review in english below)
Mais uma aventura muito bem contada, cheia de pequenas espreitadelas ao que poderá acontecer mais para a frente, à conta da personagem principal ser uma vidente, e que, longe de funcionarem como "spoilers", criam um sentimento de antecipação que só nos faz querer não parar de ler até ao fim.
A autora é realmente muito boa a transmitir sensações e sentimentos e a transportar-nos para os mundos que cria. Parece que o próximo já está quase aí...
Another well crafted adventure, full of brief glimpses into what may lie ahead - the main character is a "seer". Interestingly enough, these glimpses, that might be viewed as spoilers, make for a sense of anticipation that carries us through the story and a need to continue reading right until the end.
This author really excels at conveying feelings and emotions and transporting us to the worlds that she creates. The next one is coming soon...
Mais uma aventura muito bem contada, cheia de pequenas espreitadelas ao que poderá acontecer mais para a frente, à conta da personagem principal ser uma vidente, e que, longe de funcionarem como "spoilers", criam um sentimento de antecipação que só nos faz querer não parar de ler até ao fim.
A autora é realmente muito boa a transmitir sensações e sentimentos e a transportar-nos para os mundos que cria. Parece que o próximo já está quase aí...
Another well crafted adventure, full of brief glimpses into what may lie ahead - the main character is a "seer". Interestingly enough, these glimpses, that might be viewed as spoilers, make for a sense of anticipation that carries us through the story and a need to continue reading right until the end.
This author really excels at conveying feelings and emotions and transporting us to the worlds that she creates. The next one is coming soon...
July 8, 2011
I literally just screamed in delight. It being 2:30, my parents are less then amused. I can't help it though. Her books are amazing; I will never tire of them. But December! How can I stand it!
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Looking back on this comment makes me wish I could go back and just forever fantasize about this book. After reading it, I was left a bit stunned. It wasn't that this book was bad..it just wasn't what I expected from the author of Daughter of the Forest and Wildwood Dancing. The series was intended to be a trilogy. And it was an amazing trilogy! Then the fourth book came, and it was fantastic! This book was almost like fanfiction. It didn't have much of a plot. And the romance, though sweet, wasn't believable. Oh well. This is still my favourite series, I just wish it had ended with the fourth.
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Looking back on this comment makes me wish I could go back and just forever fantasize about this book. After reading it, I was left a bit stunned. It wasn't that this book was bad..it just wasn't what I expected from the author of Daughter of the Forest and Wildwood Dancing. The series was intended to be a trilogy. And it was an amazing trilogy! Then the fourth book came, and it was fantastic! This book was almost like fanfiction. It didn't have much of a plot. And the romance, though sweet, wasn't believable. Oh well. This is still my favourite series, I just wish it had ended with the fourth.
January 31, 2022
Juliet Mariller continua a me encantar sobre as suas historias sobre o povo de sevenwaters e as suas criaturas mágicas. Sibeal na sua jornada para escolher entre o amor e o dever prendeu-me na narrativa, e fiquei satisfeita com o caminho escolhido. Felix é outra personagem fascinante, encontrado sem memoria, o mistério sobre a sua origem torna o enredo mais estimulante. Também Svala é outra personagem que detém um papel fundamental no enredo, por introduzir criaturas marinhas no livro.
Sevenwaters é uma saga que me tem acompanhado desde os meus tempos de adolescência, será difícil despedir-me de personagens por quem tenho tanto carinho. Espero que o próximo livro, tal como este, ofereça-me uma narrativa que me aqueça o coração.
Sevenwaters é uma saga que me tem acompanhado desde os meus tempos de adolescência, será difícil despedir-me de personagens por quem tenho tanto carinho. Espero que o próximo livro, tal como este, ofereça-me uma narrativa que me aqueça o coração.
December 7, 2020
These books. This series. This writer. ❤️❤️❤️
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