Publication Date: 6th November 2024
Formerly a noble knight from Brittany, Sir Cardin is now notoriously known by the name Basati, the Basque Wolf. Stricken with guilt and grief, he turns to alcohol for comfort after his wife’s death. Unfortunately, his mother is seriously ill and her last wish is for him to come home for Yule. The only thing that would make him return to his birthplace is his mother’s health, but the memories are overwhelming. In addition, he will have to face his young son, whom he has accused of causing his wife’s death in childbirth.
Ulla, who witnessed the murder of her entire family, including her husband and son, seeks solace in silence and prefers the company of animals over humans. Despite that, Ulla possesses exceptional healing and hunting abilities. Even though she can no longer speak, Ulla finds solace in teaching Cardin’s son, Lukaz, the skills of archery and hunting. Yet, she fears that with Cardin’s return, he will persist in ignoring his beautiful child.
As Ulla strives to reunite father and son, she grapples with the dilemma of guarding her own heart. Will she take the risk of falling in love with Basati, the Basque Wolf?
Jennifer Ivy Walker’s A Celtic Yuletide Carol is a sensually captivating historical fantasy romance, perfect for a cosy afternoon with a hot cup of chocolate.
Successfully portraying a mute protagonist is a challenging task that requires skilful writing. In Ulla, Walker has created a believable protagonist who, despite her disability, plays a central role in everyone’s life, particularly Lukaz and Cardin. Ulla faces communication challenges due to her muteness, but she has devised strategies to navigate them. She is a highly expressive character who communicates through gestures and can effectively convey her thoughts through writing. Throughout the story, the reader is granted an intimate glimpse into her thoughts. Walker has successfully embraced the challenge of portraying Ulla, and her character truly propels the story forward. She becomes the bridge, uniting Cardin and his son.
Cardin is initially depicted as somewhat of an anti-hero in the novel due to his lack of strong morals, reckless behaviour, and selfish disregard for his brother and son, which diminishes his likability. Nevertheless, beneath the exterior of Basati, the Basque Wolf, is a man haunted by grief and remorse. Cardin’s tale is incredibly moving, and it is sure to provoke intense emotions in the reader. Cardin evolves into a character that the reader genuinely cheers for by the book’s conclusion.
Though firmly established in the realm of historical fantasy, Walker’s book draws upon actual historical figures and events. Although we do not meet the historical characters mentioned in this novel, we are given an insight into the era. The lives of the main characters are shrouded in a shadowy backstory, stemming from the accumulation of tensions and drama caused by feuds and alliances of the kings of this period. Both the House of Plantagenets and the House of Valois seek dominance over Aquitaine, but avoiding war is possible through a treaty. But there are those who do not wish the treaty to be signed. On the crisp of the Hundred Year War, the characters face many challenges, and the future is uncertain, but their loyalties to their king are unquestionable. On the other hand, the historical fantasy elements bring together history, myths and legends. Thus, Lancelot du Lac, the famous knight who is famed for bringing down King Arthur, is alive and well and living his best life in Joyeuse Garde, training the next generation of knights. The decision to include Lancelot was fascinating, particularly because his story/creation was relatively new thanks to Chrétien de Troyes’ epic poem in in the 12th century, but as unlikely as it seemed, his inclusion (although we never actually meet him in this novel) fits with the narrative. Similarly, there is a multitude of Celtic traditions that persist, particularly in the realm of medicine which are endlessly fascinating. Walker’s knowledge of herbs and crystals is evident throughout the story. Although leaning more towards fantasy, the novel’s blend of historical accuracy and fantasy is what makes it such a highly enjoyable read. There is also a very believable romance, which runs through the length of this story, which has been beautifully written.
Through multiple narratives, this novel provides readers with insights into the thoughts of various characters, going beyond just the protagonists. There are moments when the author becomes repetitive, making it a bit monotonous for the reader who already knows what the character will say as they are already privy to their thoughts. Moreover, an abundance of internal monologues, except for Ulla's, while occasionally beneficial, tends to impede the flow of the story.
The author’s profound adoration for Brittany is evident in the masterful depiction of this enthralling kingdom. Walker has obviously done a great deal of research as to what Brittany was like during this era, and this comes across as a realistically drawn depiction. The depiction of the Brocéliande Forest is expertly done, immersing the reader in its enchanting atmosphere. Ulla effortlessly embodies the role of a Priestess of Dana in this bewitching setting.
This book is a profoundly moving story that truly captivates the imagination. For fans of well-written historical fantasy romance, A Celtic Yuletide Carol by Jennifer Ivy Walker is a must-read.
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A Celtic Yuletide Carol
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Thank you very much for this lovely review of A Celtic Yuletide Carol.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations, Jennifer.
ReplyDeleteYour book certainly sounds like an enchanting read. Congratulations on your fabulous review.
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