An Irish historical/fantasy adventure that intertwines traditional mythology with the tenth-century wars in Ireland, by debut author Shauna Lawless.

THE NEW GAEL SONG NOVEL FROM SHAUNA LAWLESS, THE LAND OF THE LIVING AND THE DEAD, AVAILABLE TO PREORDER NOW! The first in a gripping historical fantasy series that intertwines Irish mythology with real-life history, The Children of Gods and Fighting Men is the thrilling debut novel in the Gael Song series by Shauna Lawless. Shortlisted for Best Debut at the 2023 British Fantasy Awards. They think they've killed the last of us... 981 AD. The Viking King of Dublin is dead. His young widow, Gormflaith, has ambitions for her son – and herself – but Ireland is a dangerous place and kings tend not to stay kings for long. Gormflaith also has a secret. She is a Fomorian, one of an immortal race who can do fire-magic. She has kept her powers hidden at all costs, for there are other immortals in this world – like the Tuatha Dé Danann, another magical race, who are the sworn enemies of all Fomorians. Fódla is one of the Tuatha Dé Danann with the gift of healing. Her kind dwell in a fortress hidden from the mortal world. Fódla agrees to help her kin by spying on Brian Boru, a powerful man who aims to be High King of Ireland. She finds a land on the brink of war – a war she is desperate to stop. But preventing the loss of mortal lives is not easy with Ireland in turmoil and the Fomorians now on the rise... Reviewers on The Children of Gods and Fighting Men 'Lawless blends fantasy with historical fiction to great effect.' SFX 'Celebrates the extraordinary history and cultural traditions of Ireland while giving voice to the women who helped shape it. Highly recommended.' Lucy Holland 'An excellent read.' Mark Lawrence 'Highlander meets The Last Kingdom... I was hooked from page one.' Anthony Ryan 'Gripping and beautiful. A Celtic Last Kingdom with wild magic and fierce heroines.' Anna Smith Spark 'A beguiling blend of fantasy, history, and politics.' D.K. Fields 'A vividly written story that makes the ancient past feel contemporary.' Joseph O'Connor 'It swept me along and refused to be put down.' H.M. Long 'An atmospheric journey into a thrilling historical fantasy world.' R.J. Barker

"Lawless writes historical fiction steeped in fantasy and mythology like Bernard Cornwell, Mary Stewart, and Stephen Lawhead at the top of their games. I don't say this lightly either, I'm aware of the track record and accomplishments of these authors. But I have to say that Lawless more than holds her own among that lofty company. If you are an admirer of those books, you will absolutely love this... Shauna Lawless has loudly and triumphantly announced her presence to the world with this unforgettable debut and first book in the Gael Song series" - Out Of This World SFF

"A great debut and an enjoyable read for any fantasy fan" - SF Crowsnest

"Lawless blends fantasy with historical fiction to great effect" - SFX

"Delivers an intriguing blend of Irish history and folklore fantasy... Quietly excellent" - Geek Dad

"A fun and deftly crafted read from start to finish and will leave the reader looking eagerly toward the next title in this original fantasy series" - Midwest Book Review