I loved this book. It is the first in a series, and I cannot wait for the next book. The main character is a priest, named Ciaran. He is a celtic priest who is converted to Christianity and is ultimately put to death for his new beliefs. But, he doesn’t die. He wakes up in the year 1966 and meets the lovely Caitlin. It was a lot of fun following Ciaran as he learns about the modern world. It kept me smiling and wondering how he was going to keep his secret. I recommend checking this book out!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecca Hillhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebecca Hill2021-05-31 20:22:082021-05-31 22:58:18The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Rebecca Hill
This story was extremely original! Caitlin, the main character, is an archaeologist which is really cool because she is an obviously intelligent woman, who very clearly knows her craft. All of the characters were relatable, even the relationships with the characters that were not a huge part of the story, like Preston whose purpose was seemingly to annoy everyone, was a relatable character because everybody knows people like that. Caitlin’s intrigue over the mysterious Celt is also relatable, because everyone finds something that they just want to understand. Ciaran’s backstory is heartbreaking, immediately drew me in, and I didn’t want to stop reading. She built a world that captivated me and I wanted to be a part of.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jo Frizzellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJo Frizzell2021-05-31 20:00:262021-05-31 22:57:37The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jo Frizzell
This book was very interesting and a good read. I really enjoyed the paranormal romance with time travel and mystery. Caitlin is an archaeologist finds Ciaran, whom is a priest that is over 1500 years old. Who is Ciaran and why was he buried? The story does go from present to past, and I liked that and it was easy to read and I loved the time travel element. I loved Ciaran’s character, but Caitlin was a bit to strong for me. I cannot wait to see how the story continues.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2021-05-31 19:45:282021-05-31 22:56:39The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
Ciarán is a pagan priest in the Kingdom of Connachta in Ériu, however, a twist of fate has led him to an unfortunate event and a gathering storm is showing the displeasure of the Goddess he has sworn allegiance to. His crime was falling in love, marrying the woman and converting to her religion in the process and this angered the priests who raised him, welcomed them into their ranks and gave him the honour of being a Child of the Goddess whose role in the priesthood was to create the new generation of these chosen. This is why he is being condemned to eternal living confinement in a tomb and his wife is to suffer the trifold death while he watches on, tears Ciarán apart and the guilt he feels for this act of love is immense. As he is forced to drink the elixir which places him in the bodily state needed for his punishment, he learns some truths which shatter his whole world and repair it at the same time, he only has time to pray to his God as he slowly freezes into a state of living death.
Caitlin O’Connell is an archaeologist working on a dig in County Mayo in Ireland when she discovers a tomb on a hillside with an inscription which details who is interred there and why, but the why leaves more questions than answers and when the team open up the tomb and find a fifteen hundred year old body still in pristine condition. She has had to deal with a lot while on this site, a certain lack of respect from her coworkers, but nothing is as annoying and trying of her patience than the son of the digs benefactor who has no idea what he is doing or how the things he does on site can affect the whole dig, but when he tries to mess with the body and attacks one of the team members at the same time, leniency is not in his immediate future, despite who his father is. As the dig progresses and more tombs are found, there is a mystery as the differences between the three become apparent, however, when they are taken to three different museums around the world for display, things are even more strange when the body starts to bleed and stories of it opening its eyes start to circulate. Meanwhile, Ciarán is slowly waking up from his imprisonment and as he does, he is plagued by dreams and memories of his past, his childhood, his lady love and the revelations he has yet to process, however, he cannot understand where he is and how the invisible barrier is holding him in, so he decides to break out of the prison and find out what is happening.
Caitlin is dealing with the jet lag and all the responsibilities which have come with this new discovery, until it all comes to a head when one night the body just disappears after the glass display it was being preserved in is shattered and there are no leads as to where the priest has been taken. The police are trying to investigate, but with no leads and the benefactor being unimpressed with the handling of the situation and a copycat scenario on the other side of the world, both the dig and the investigation are closed, meanwhile Ciarán has made his way through the mysterious city he has woken up in to arrive at a church of the God he now believes in and is taken in by the Priests who live there, they care for him, feed him and make sure he has everything he needs, however, as he recovers from his plight, he doesn’t realise that Caitlin is the niece of one of the Priests and as much as he tries to deny it, there is an attraction there, but she is determined to uncover the truth behind both the missing Priest and the mysterious newcomer to the Parish who seems to know more than he is letting on, especially when he has an encounter with the police, where he sees something which reminds him of someone from his past he has no wish to see upon the earth once more.
As Caitlin is finding more questions than answers in her need to seek out the truth, will Ciarán let his past slip out and reveal his true identity to the world, or will his secrets catch up with him in more ways than one? Will Ciarán’s physical attraction to Caitlin lead to something more, or will the things he has endured create a blockade they cannot break down? This is a supernatural story with a historical and romantic twist where pagan rituals, religious beliefs and archaeology are mixed together to create a complex story of love, loss, life and death which is compelling throughout.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2021-05-31 17:27:242021-05-31 22:45:38The Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
The Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews is right up my alley. I am a lover of Historical Fiction and Archaeology, so this book was very intriguing to me. I ended up not being able to put it down, and I appreciate how the story switches from past to present throughout the book. The story follows Caitlin, an archaeologist, who finds the perfect body of a 1500 year old pagan priest buried in Ireland. His body is exhumed and taken to New York where excitement surrounding his body ensues and Caitlin is swept up in some excitement of her own. Lovers of tales like The DaVinci Code and The Mummy will love this book! The characters are well-rounded and multi-dimensional so their plights keep the story compelling. I recommend this story with 5 out of 5 stars.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christine J. Spulakhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine J. Spulak2021-05-31 12:23:472021-05-31 22:32:59The Cross of Ciaran (The Cross of Ciaran Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Chrissy Spulak
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical romance with a paranormal twist and could not put this book down. The storyline was fascinating and had me hooked from page one. Archaeologist Caitlin O’Connell unearths the find of the century when a fifth century pagan priest is discovered in Ireland. Caitlin can not believe the perfect condition the Celt’s body is in, after all it was entombed fifteen hundred years ago. Caitlin accompanies the body back to the New York museum where she works so she can study him and discover more about the mysterious priest. However, before she can start work the priest disappears without a trace, leaving rumours circulating about the theft and the excavation’s benefactor pulling out of the expedition. Meanwhile, Ciarán wakes up into a strange new world having been buried alive for a betrayal against his goddess. Having been a priest in the beginnings of Christianity Ciarán seeks help with the parish’s pastor, Father Mike. Although Ciarán slowly gets used to being in his new surroundings and new era he is haunted by dark dreams and disturbing sensations that an evil from his past has followed him.
Caitlin has remained determined to find out what happened to her Celt priest and when she meets Ciarán Donnelly, her Uncle Mike’s new handyman she is convinced that he knows something about the theft. As the mutual attraction between them grows and Caitlin’s personal and professional life starts to blur Ciarán worries that his secrets might prevent them from having a future. This wonderfully written and heartwarming story is full of historical details and along with the descriptive narrative both the characters, the setting and the eras are bought to life. I felt completely immersed in the storyline which flows well and the intriguing plot kept me happily turning the pages well into the night.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2021-05-31 11:44:232021-05-31 22:32:35The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jennifer Gordon
Ths Cross of Ciaran was an interesting read for me, while I’ve never really been into novels involving history Ms. Matthews has a way of including it that makes interesting. During this novel she takes us back in time and then brings us back to the present flawlessly. Ms. Matthews sets a beautiful scene with her vivid descriptions, great word building, and fantastic characters. For being one of my first history romance novel I found the plot to be interesting, and Ms. Matthews writing style flows wonderfully. So while this is my first romance novel, I highly recommend The Cross of Ciaran as a highly interesting Romance novel to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Corbinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Corbin2021-05-30 18:07:452021-05-31 21:48:13The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Stephanie Corbin
I really enjoyed this book. It started with a mystery from the beginning and didn’t rush through everything, but built up slowly and consistently. I love history and enjoy the little bits of Gaelic, Latin and Celtic history interwoven into the story. The idea is unique, from what I have seen so far, and a great spin looking at the past. I like the characters and can picture them clearly. A great read and I am looking forward to reading its sequel! I would even watch it as a movie or mini-series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jana Lewishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJana Lewis2021-05-30 14:03:002021-05-30 18:38:27The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jana Lewis
I really enjoyed this romance. I love the mixture of history and romance. The author does an amazing job of bringing history to life. You feel completed submerged into the world of the past as well as the present day.
Ciaran is a fifth century pagan priest. After he falls in love with someone he shouldn’t he is sentenced to be buried alive for his crimes.
Fast forward fifteen hundred years later and Ciaran’s tomb and body is found by Caitlin O’Connell. She is amazed at how well preserved Ciaran is so she brings him back to New York to learn all about his life.
However things take a strange twist when Ciaran turns up missing.
What has happened to the man from so long ago? It must have been a robbery because no way he could have walked out of the museum on his own right? Who is the new handyman her Uncle has taken on and why does Caitlin feel he knows more about her missing priest than he is letting on? When the secrets of Ciaran’s past are revealed will Caitlin still love him or will it shatter her heart forever?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2021-05-30 12:26:552021-05-30 18:36:13The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Kerry Carr
Oh what a tangled web we weave! Cieran is a 1500 year old pagan priest who ends up waking up in 1966. He disappears into New York and ends up at a New York rectory where Caitlin’s, the professor who found him, uncle is a priest. He helps Cieran try to fit in. As strange as it may sound, while Caitlin is looking for her missing Celt, he is right under her nose. She is falling for him. The adventures and misadventures they have are quite a delight You can relate because we all experience that feeling of newness. Though Cieran would make you want to give the the dead language of Latin a try. He’s a hottie As Caitlin tries to deal with this gorgeous man so seems a little off, she’s also dealing with some messed up experiences. The author does a great job with keeping the plot running smooth. The characters feel real and relatable I can’t wait to read book 2 so I can see what happens.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2021-05-30 05:50:102021-05-30 18:31:43The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Shelly Kittell
The Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews is a paranormal romance novel about an archaeologist named Caitlin O’Connell who discovers the fifteen-hundred-year-old tomb of Ciaran, a disgraced pagan priest. Matthews expertly weaves dual timelines into her story’s fabric with it flipping back and forth between the 1960s and fifth century Ireland- a period of time we get to explore through Ciaran’s eyes that’s filled with magic, betrayal and religious and political intrigue. This ancient world that Matthews has crafted is intricate with its Celtic and Pagan influences, and is teeming with life with Matthews’ use of Latin and Gaelic. The frequent flashbacks to this time long past allows readers to understand and sympathise with Ciaran as they show his experiences spanning from when he was a young boy to the events in his life that ultimately domino into his untimely and frankly horrifying and unwarranted death. It is truly astounding how attached I became to some of the characters from this age-old past who have been dead for centuries at the primary time period the book takes place and who we’re only shown glimpses of from Ciaran’s memories. This is a testament to the absolute life that Matthews breathes into her characters who actually transcend the confines of mere characters to become full-fledged and fleshed-out people and friends who you come to care for as much as Ciaran does.
The book’s heroine and resident spunky professor, Caitlin, is also a delight to read about. The only woman in a field dominated by men, you won’t find Caitlin resigning herself to the shadows of her male colleagues- rather, Caitlin makes it a point to thrust herself into the light with her absolute love and passion for her line of work. Her dedication to her profession and her absolute giddiness and excitement at new discoveries practically leaps off the page and is so infectious, you will feel as animated as she does. Caitlin’s chemistry with her colleagues is strong and is laden with the sense of the prior adventures and experiences that Caitlin has undeniably had with them. You aren’t just told of the bond that Caitlin has with them- you can feel it too.
It would be an injustice, however, to not mention what is by far the novel’s most compelling pairing which is between Ciaran and Caitlin themselves. It turns out that a man and woman out of time- the former literally and the latter spiritually- makes for a potent combination and this is in no small part a credit to Matthew’s beautiful descriptions. Her writing has almost a lyrical quality to it in the way that it ebbs and flows from one sentence to the next and is so vivid and visceral that, upon reading it, I felt like I was physically inside the book itself, witnessing the events of the story.
Overall, The Cross of Ciaran is one that you will not want to miss if you want a rich historical romance with an abundance of both heart and heartbreak.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Hansi Wasalahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHansi Wasala2021-05-30 01:10:142021-05-30 18:29:29The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Hansini Wasalamudalige
A cross for Ciarán is very well written. The characters are engaging and relatable, especially Father Mike, Mary, and the main characters of Ciarán and Caitlyn. The interaction between the characters feels genuine and I love the bits of Irish and Latin that are mixed in to the story. They author does a good job of showing flashbacks to the fifth century within the chapters that are in the present setting without it getting too confusing. It’s ends on a bit of a cliff hanger so I look forward to reading the next in this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Rosenberghttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Rosenberg2021-05-29 21:12:422021-05-30 18:24:02The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Elizabeth Rosenberg
Caitlin O’Connell is an archaeologist in the 1960s who discovers the tomb of a 5th Century Celtic priest. Excited by her discovery, which is all the more amazing for the pristine state of the remains, she carefully has the priest sent to her museum for research. However, before she can commence studying him, he mysteriously disappears under the cover of night, leaving everyone scratching their heads at the disappearance. Some magic is afoot, but rational Caitlin is unwilling to consider the possibility of the paranormal. Told from both Caitlin’s and Ciaran’s perspective, the reader gets to know about Ciaran’s life and death, as well as Caitlin’s growing attachment to the handsome priest.
The characters are great, with intricate backstory that really makes them come alive. I enjoyed watching Ciaran explore the 20th Century, and learn more about the experiences and people that shaped him. It is well written and relatable, with vivid imagery of Celtic scenery and tradition. A good read, I recommend it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Shoebridgehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Shoebridge2021-05-27 19:22:072021-05-28 07:31:11The Cross of Ciaran (The Cross of Ciaran Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Erica Shoebridge
This book, was not for me. I am not a reader who enjoys too many timelines, as I sometimes struggle to maintain focus on them all, so I really struggled to stay intrigued throughout the whole book. I did enjoy the writing style, but I’m not sure this book and the characters were my “cup of tea”. Not to discredit the talent of the author! The writing style was great, the depth, creativity and research that went into building this story was greatly evident- it is just not personally my type of book. This author is still 100% talented and for people who love multitudes of timelines, history and drama with a magical twist, I am sure they would absolutely love this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Natashahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNatasha2021-05-27 15:20:002021-05-28 07:14:38The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Natasha Mae
The Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews is a well written and interesting story. Combining the past and the present in an intriguing manner this book certainly caught my attention right off the mark and didn’t let go. I found this book to be so full of detail that I could easily imagine everything the author was describing. At times it felt like I was right there with the characters, experiencing the same things as them. I liked the mix of characters in the book too. I thought they all played a part and the different dynamics all added to the story. I haven’t read much by this author but everything I have read has so far been great. I didn’t realise going into it that there would be a follow on book to this one but I am really looking forward to reading it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2021-05-27 14:32:502021-05-28 07:06:03The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Kerry Baker
This was a refreshing read by a writer I have never read or heard of. It was a wonderful read with some truly amazing characters. I wasn’t a fan of the main character at the beginning however the end I was finally a fan. Once I picked this book up it was hard for me to stop reading it because I was so intrigued. Then again, I am quite a history buff that is interested in archaeology and was able to enjoy and respect that part of the story. I was so glad to finally read a book containing history for a change. It was a nice change of pace. I can tell that there will be a follow-up book from the ending, and I can’t wait to read that as well.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Karen Pearmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKaren Pearman2021-05-27 14:12:382021-05-28 07:05:26The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Karen Pearman
This is a book of many genres; history, archaeology, romance, fantasy, suspense, the list goes on! I’m a sucker for a book with multiple timelines, and this one executed it perfectly. The story of the past brings depth to the current story being told. Andrea Matthews has a beautiful writing style. No detail is overlooked in the world she creates, and all of the characters are fully and genuinely developed. I didn’t know when I began reading that this was just the first book. I was thrilled when I learned that there is more to come. I plan to read the second one as soon as it is out so I can continue the story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kristy Nelsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKristy Nelson2021-05-27 00:24:212021-05-27 09:29:34The Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews- Review by Kristy Nelson
I really enjoyed this paranormal romance from Andrea Matthews. I was used to her writing style so I knew what I was getting into when I picked up this newest series from her. I really enjoyed this lovely start of what I can only imagine will be a rich and detailed trip through pagan and irish history as we follow the way this story and series will unfold. I really loved how once again Matthews’ love for history and romance shone through each and every word almost poetically as it read. I really enjoyed it and felt transported into the story and each scene. I will be anxious to go back and read book two just as soon as I can get my hands on it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2021-05-26 17:31:082021-05-27 09:00:19The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Liz Vrchota
This is a very interesting plot which takes us through two different timelines. It is about an archeological dig in Ireland, where an archeologist Caitlin uncovers a perfectly preserved corpse of a 1500 year old Pagan Irish priest, Ciaran, who lived in the fifth century. The body is taken to New York for further testing, But on reaching New York, the priest disappears. He is awakened, and seeks comfort in a church. The story takes an interesting turn when these two-start dating. How long can Ciaran hold back his secrets from Caitlin? Ciaran is an interesting character and the readers can empathize with his situation. Caitlin is slightly loud mouthed and does not come across as truly likeable. But they both form a very interesting pair. The book is a breezy read , there are few secrets revealed, few left to be understood. The time travel element is interesting. Over all a good book to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2021-05-25 21:38:132021-05-25 22:29:30The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Anantha Rusum
The Cross of Ciaran is the first book in The Cross of Ciaran series by Andrea Matthews. It is a paranormal romance- with archaeology, mystery, magic, adventure, drama, some suspense, and history. Caitlin O’Connell is an archaeologist who unearths the body of a pagan priest. The perfectly preserved body is over 1500 years old- so he is the find of her career. But somewhere along the line, the body disappears- and so this adventure begins. What happens when the priest miraculously awakens? Why was he buried alive in the first place? What surprising developments will ensue? Maybe you should grab a copy and find out. I really liked Ciaran, but found it difficult to connect with Caitlin. She came across quite prickly and rude. The story transitions from past to present and back again- building the backstory whilst driving the story forward. I wonder where the second book will lead?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2021-05-25 08:20:352021-05-25 12:52:52The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Angela Hayes
The Cross of Ciaran is new paranormal romance story by Andrea Matthews. In true Andrea style she once again incorporates her two loves history and archaeology which gives the story that little bit more richness. The story goes back and forth between the fifth century and present. We get introduced to this new world with excellent world-building and characters so there is less happening as it plays out to set the scene. I did however find it hard to like Caitlin whether this is intentional by Andrea or not remains to be seen. Reviewed by @jennadb
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2021-05-23 20:41:522021-05-24 00:55:07The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jenni Bishop
I enjoyed this mystery with a touch of romance. This is my first book by this author and I look forward to seeing what is next in the future. This is a well written story that kept me engaged and turning pages to the end. The characters bring the story to life through the author’s attention to details. This is a great story that will take you on an adventure in finding a missing Celt but they just may find more than what they are expecting. This is such a great story. It is fun and entertaining to read. It was easy to read and understandable. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2021-05-21 08:42:192021-05-21 10:02:28The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Bobbi Wagner
When a fifth century pagan priest is unearthed in Ireland fifteen hundred years after being entombed, archaeologist Caitlin O’Connell is convinced it’s the find of the century. The body is in perfect condition, right down to the intricate tattoos adorning the Celt’s skin. In fact, if scientific data hadn’t proved otherwise, she would swear he hadn’t been interred more than a few hours.
Eager to discover more about the mysterious Celt, Caitlin accompanies the body back to the New York museum where she’s employed, but before she has time to study him, the priest disappears without a trace. Rumors surrounding the event begin to circulate and result in the excavation’s benefactor pulling the plug on the entire expedition.
The rumors are not far off the mark though. After being buried alive for betraying his goddess and his priesthood in the dawning age of Christianity, Ciarán wakes to a strange new world. Alone and frightened in an unforgiving city, he stumbles upon the only thing familiar to him and seeks sanctuary within the church walls. With the help of the parish’s pastor, Father Mike, Ciarán slowly grows accustomed to his surroundings, though he’s plagued by dark dreams and the disturbing sensation that an evil from his past has followed him into the future. But a more immediate danger lurks on his doorstep.
Caitlin is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery concerning her missing Celt, and when she meets her Uncle Mike’s new handyman, Ciarán Donnelly, she’s convinced the handsome Irishman knows more about the theft than he’s letting on. Yet, even she can’t deny the attraction between them, simmering below the surface and blurring the lines between her personal and professional life. But will Ciarán’s secrets draw them together or shatter their future forever
Andrea Matthews is the pseudonym for Inez Foster, a historian and retired librarian who loves to read and write and search around for her roots, genealogical speaking.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Cross-of-Ciaran-eBook-Cover-Large.jpg900600itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2021-05-10 00:02:092021-10-30 07:57:41The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews
Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder on the Moor Book 2) by Andrea Matthews was amazing. This is the second book in this series and I definitely recommend reading the first book before this one. I was so excited for this book after reading the first. You find romance, time travel, fantasy, action and adventure along with so much more. This book continues the journey of Maggie and Will, but can they stay safe? How will things work during their journey together? I became so hooked on this book, the way the author brings it to life is amazing, and then the characters no matter who they are, are amazing!!! I love this and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Taylorhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Taylor2021-02-11 20:43:512021-02-12 08:55:10Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder on the Moor Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Amanda Taylor
4 Stars Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder on the Moor Book 2) by Andrea Matthews
Ride with the Moonlight is the second book in the Thunder on the Moor series by Andrea Matthews. I recommend reading the first book if you haven’t already but thus can be read as a standalone. This is a time travel historical romance that I once you dive in its hard to put down. Will and Maggie go through quite a lot . She’s a time traveler. He’s sentenced to hang and she’s sent back to her family. Will the plan set in motion be enough to save Will and reunite the two? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2021-02-06 05:16:382021-02-06 05:16:38Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder on the Moor Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
Thunder on the Moor (Thunder On The Moor #1) by Andrea Matthews
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. It was a great book and I’m looking forward to the next one. This is the first book in the Thunder On The Moor Series.
Maggie is the daughter of a 16th century man who was brought to the future. She’s heard what she thought were stories. Only to find out that they’re not just stories. The quote I chose for Maggie is: “Regardless, it would do us all good to get away.”
Robert is from the 16th century and from Scotland. He’s brought from the past to the future. There four hundred years into the future he meets his wife and had a kid. The quote I chose for Robert is: “Have nae fear, laddie, if I’d wanted to kill ye, ye’d be long since gone. Me kin, on the other hand, mightna take so kindly to such as you, so ye’d best be watching yerself. Now I see ye’ve already secured yer own jack, but the rest of what ye’ll be needing is in the car. Get yerself dressed, aye. We have some work to do.”
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Kimblehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Kimble2021-02-06 05:14:292021-02-06 05:14:29Thunder on the Moor (Thunder on the Moor #1) by Andrea Matthews-Review by Amanda Kimble
Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder On The Moor #2) by Andrea Matthews
This is the second book I’ve read by Matthews. The second book in the Thunder On The Moor Series. Better than the first and easier to read.
Maggie has saved Will from her family. She soon finds herself in quite some trouble. Having to go back to Ian isn’t something she wants to do. Losing her family is also something she doesn’t want to do. The quote I chose for Maggie is: “But don’t you see? You’ll be condemning me to far worse. My life’s already spent, my very heart hanging from a gibbet for the crows to . . . Please don’t let Geordie hand me over to Ian. I’m begging you.”
Will has fallen for Maggie. He doesn’t know how things are going to go considering that her family is after him. He soon finds that things aren’t going well. The quote I chose for Will is: “Ye canna blame yerself for believing Ian Rutherford’s lies. He’s a wicked creature, that one, with a silver tongue. Ye werena the only one to be deceived. Even yer Uncle Geordie believed him, and he’s a canny auld fox, or so me brother Walt says.”
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Kimblehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Kimble2021-02-06 05:13:572021-02-06 05:13:57Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder on the Moor #2) by Andrea Matthews-Review by Amanda Kimble
Ride with the Moonlight by Andrea Matthews is the second book in the Thunder On the Moor series. This can easily be read as a standalone story but I highly recommend reading the series in order just for a better flow to the series. This is a fun historical romance read. Maggie is a time traveler and she has traveled to the sixteenth century with her family. Will be Scotland of the past be what Maggie expects? The story is well thought out and I enjoyed the different characters. She is in the middle of political intrigue between England and Scotland and unsure who to trust. I really like the story and look forward to how it progresses in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sheri Schraderhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSheri Schrader2021-02-05 18:51:142021-02-05 19:34:27Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder on the Moor Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Sheri Schrader
This novel continues with Maggie and Will’s story which began in ‘Thunder on the Moor’, and I would recommend reading that book before this one to thoroughly enjoy the story. Having read and loved book one I was looking forward to this second instalment of Matthews’s historical romance series which has a time travelling paranormal twist. Time traveler Maggie Armstrong and sixteenth century Border reiver Will Foster are now together after Maggie saved Will from her family. However, Maggie’s Scottish kin are not happy that she has run off with an Englishman especially as her uncle has plans to marry her off to Scotsman Ian Rutherford. There is also danger from Will’s family who are not happy that he’s risking his life to be with a Scottish women. This novel is full of drama, suspense, and romance and I was hooked from page one. Having fallen in love with the main characters, Maggie and Will in book one I was completely immersed in their story and could not put this book down. The authors descriptive narrative really bought both the characters and the setting to life and I felt as though I was in the sixteenth century. The author obviously knows this time period well and I found this novel to be a good mix of history and romance. An enjoyable and engaging read, which I definitely recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2021-02-05 16:32:362021-02-05 16:45:49Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder on the Moor Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jennifer Gordon
So, the second instalment in the Thunder on the Moor series, and I was chuffed. It really kept the feel of the first one going nicely, and I was instantly tugged back into the world without any of the massive reading pains of not remembering who was who and what the actual jeff was going on. Obviously, I think a lot of that enlightenment had to do with the fact I had actually read the first book instead of doing my usual trick of jumping into a series mid-way. Still, I think it says something about the strength of the world and the characters that Matthew has created, that even after a few months of not having some quality time with the ole chaps, I still sunk into this book as if no time had passed, all the characters having the familiarity of an old friend that I had just forgotten to message for a while. This story picks up pretty much where the other one left off Will and Maggie, who swooningly ended up falling in love with each other after a trifle load of misunderstandings threatened to get in the way. Now though, they have a teeny tiny problem as, while they knew that Maggie’s family might be a smidge angry with her for taking the side of an Englishman and falling in love with him to boot, they had not prepared for trouble on Will’s end as well. The arsy warden decides that he doesn’t like an Englishman galivanting with a Scottish lass and effectively sends out a warrant for his arrest and while Maggie and Will do everything to evade capture, it becomes impossible. Once again separated, Will faces almost certain death, and Maggie faces a fate almost on par with death – being married to Ian, the massive dick from the first book, who I wish someone would just bonk on the head and do us all a favour. Anywho, Maggies family are dead set on the union regardless of what Maggie herself wants, and you know the fact that Ian is the devil incarnate who happened to murder her father. Meanwhile, news has reached Will’s family of his unfortunate predicament and they begin to formulate a plan to put a stop to his execution. It’s a good strong second book, sometimes I find that the second instalment of a series can feel a little bit weak and limp, grinding to a halt because all the momentum from the first book just isn’t there, but Matthews keeps the pace going nicely and all of the awesome things I loved about the first book were present in this one too. Awesome writing and some gorgeous description that made me want to go and stand majestically on a hilltop somewhere. A wonderful write that I thoroughly enjoyed, even if Ian did piss me off something rotten.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Danielle Dandohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDanielle Dando2021-02-05 15:52:452021-02-05 16:45:25Ride with the Moonlight (Thunder on the Moor Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Dani Dando
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