Name: Firebrand
ISBN: 9780765369413

Gillian Philip

Seth MacGregor, the half-feral son of a Sithe nobleman, is exiled to the mortal world of sixteenth-century Scotland during a time of religious wars and brutal witch-hunts.

Firebrand

Seth MacGregor is the half-feral, bastard son of a Sithe nobleman. It's the last decade of the sixteenth century, a time of religious wars and witch hunts in the full mortal world. But the Sithe are at peace, until their queen, Kate NicNiven, determines to destroy the protecting veil. When his father Griogair is assassinated, and Seth is exiled with his brother Conal to the full-mortal world, they vow to survive, to return to reclaim their fortress and save the veil. But even its power can't protect the brothers when the witch hunts begin. Suggested level: senior secondary.

Siobhán

First I just want to thank Gillian for giving me this chance to review such a wonderful story. I feel in love from the first few pages and this now has a special place within my heart.

Firebrand is the first in a new fantasy series by Gillian Philip. It is set in the 16th Century Scotland at the times of religious wars and witchs hunts. The book tells the story of a young Sithe (Faery) Warrior called Seth and follows him from being a young boy being sent to life with his father who doesnt want him right up until he is a man who is in love. Seth is the type of character that is it easy to bound with. He is arrogant, selfish and complete brat. Yet, he is vulnerable, loyal and a joy to read. One of the things that I really liked about him was his love for his brother Conal. He is devoted to him, even when he disagrees with him. He loves his brother so much that when Conal is exiled by Kate to the "Otherworld" - the Full-Mortal world. Seth without a doubt goes with him. And this is where is story really get going.

Gillian really has a way with her word. With the story being set in 16th Century I really thought I was there along side Seth on his journey through life. I could see everything he saw, I went through the motions along with him. I could even smell what he could smell, just though Gillian powerful and beautiful writing.

Firebrand is a novel that if you are 13+ you have to read it. Young or Old. It has something for everyone. However, there are some swear words throughout and sexual contain so I would suggest if you are a parent read it before you let your kids read and its up to you whether you think they should read. I personally think this should be a book that is taught in school and would enrich all the youngsters with a love for reading. 

So if you want a novel that is packed with action, adventure, superstition that will take on a whirlwind rollcoaster of emotions then please get out there and read this novel. It will truely amaze you. And captive your very being as it has did with me

My only negative is that I now have to wait for the next one. LOL