Discovering the Depths of A Journey Through Celtic Mythology

Spear of Lugh; The Witch's Rebirth Part III

Michaela Riley’s Spear of Lugh is the third installment in “The Witch’s Rebirth” series. This rich, atmospheric tale is set in the mythic shadows of 6th-century Celtic Europe. The novel follows Merona, a powerful and timeless witch reborn across centuries. She confronts an ancient evil, Armaeus, and embraces her destiny as the Keeper of Balance.

Armed with relics of the Tuatha Dé Danann, including the Spear of Lugh and the Cauldron of Dagda, Merona must navigate magical trials. Along the way, she faces profound loss, divine expectations, and an aching search for identity, sacrifice, and love. As she chooses immortality, she confronts her lineage. Merona stands poised to guide the world into a new era, balancing the fading pagan gods with the rising tide of Christianity.

Immersive World-Building

I found myself completely pulled into the world Riley has created. The writing is poetic and often breathtaking. It captures the sorrow and wonder that run through Merona’s journey. There’s a haunting stillness in how the earth, the gods, and the past seem to breathe alongside the characters. Some passages are stunning and read like spells themselves.

At times, the prose drifts into over-explanation. However, Riley clearly loves this world and these myths. Her devotion is admirable. The heart of the book—Merona’s grief, her rebirth, and her will to love despite endless loss—resonated deeply with me. I was moved and cared profoundly about her journey. The final scenes between her and Murdach felt earned and emotionally honest, even amidst the grand fantasy of it all.

Themes of Duty and Power

Spear of Lugh wrestles with the weight of duty, the seductive nature of power, and the pain of watching loved ones fade while you endure. The mythology is dense, but it never loses sight of its human core. Merona is not some untouchable goddess; she’s aching, flawed, and strong because she chooses to keep going.

The idea that hope itself can be more powerful than any weapon stuck with me. Armaeus felt like a classic villain. His menace is conceptual, not visceral. In contrast, the true tension came from Merona’s internal battles, which were beautifully done.

A Recommendation for Fantasy Lovers

I’d recommend this to readers who love lyrical fantasy steeped in myth and feminine power. It’s not a light read; there are layers, histories, and symbols in every chapter. However, if you’re willing to dive in and let it wash over you, it’s rewarding. For fans of Marion Zimmer Bradley, Juliet Marillier, or even Diana Gabaldon, Spear of Lugh will feel like a homecoming.

Conclusion: A Thought-Provoking Experience

In conclusion, Spear of Lugh left me thoughtful, a little raw, and deeply curious about what comes next. The journey through Merona’s world is one filled with complexities and emotional depth. If you seek a story that intertwines myth with the human experience, this book is a must-read.

Rating: 5

Thank you,

Thomas Anderson

Editor In Chief