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Review of Nimue

Posted: 08 Jan 2024, 02:12
by Seetha E
[Following is a volunteer review of "Nimue" by Ayn Cates Sullivan.]
Book Cover
4 out of 5 stars
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Nimue: Freeing Merlin by Ayn Cates Sullivan is a fictional novel with Nina Liber as the main character. Nina is a seventeen-year-old girl who lives with her mother, Diana Liber, in the 21st century. The story is divided into three main parts. In the first part, Nina and her mother are dealing with a death in the family. Diana believes that true healing may be found in their native country, Britain, and she resolves to spend the summer there with Nina. Meanwhile, Nina is troubled by recurrent dreams of a woman dressed in shimmering green with pale violet eyes who refers to her as "Mage." This woman has been described as Nina's closest friend and her worst nightmare as well. Unaware of what lies ahead, Nina arrives in Britain with her mother.

The second part of the book introduces the reader to Nina's previous life as Nimue, a powerful sorceress who lived in the 5th century. Nimue played a key role in trapping Merlin until his return and safeguarding the Holy Grail. In the present day, a mysterious woman claims that she is not an ordinary person and that she must free Merlin, who is the only one who can save the world, and find the Holy Grail. The story revolves around Nina and her purpose. Will she believe what she learns about the mystery woman and her role in saving the world from the healer? The next chapter ties together all the characters and the plot beautifully.

I enjoyed the book's theme and the way the author incorporated ancient wisdom into the story. The writing painted vivid pictures of different periods, and the characters were well-developed. The lessons learned in the book can also be applied to modern-day living. One could easily relate to Nina, Nimue, or Merlina and their actions and reactions, even in the present day.

The author of this novel has put a lot of effort into conducting research, which is apparent throughout the book. The editing team also deserves recognition for doing an excellent job. The illustrations in the book are stunning and add significant value to the reading experience.

However, some sections of the book feature extremely extensive details, while others feel rushed. I am unable to state them here to avoid revealing too much. Overall, all I have to say is that the pacing is inconsistent. Also, parts IV and V are not particularly important to the plot. It is only because of these reasons that I have decided to give the book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys this genre or is interested in reading about Celtic and Arthurian-based plots. While the book is free of profanity, it does contain a few explicit scenes, so it is best suited for a mature audience.

******
Nimue
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes

Re: Review of Nimue

Posted: 20 Jan 2024, 11:05
by Amy Luman
This is a thorough review that presents your overall opinion. Thanks for it. I am not interested in these types of legends, however, so I’ll be skipping it.

Re: Review of Nimue

Posted: 08 Feb 2024, 13:28
by Seetha E
I appreciate you taking the time to drop a line.
What is your favorite genre? Or does it depend on your mood or time on hand?

Re: Review of Nimue

Posted: 08 Feb 2024, 21:31
by Julie Marie Basil
This is a well written review that leaves me intrigued to know more about the story. Keep up the good work!

Re: Review of Nimue

Posted: 13 Jun 2025, 06:31
by Chi Chiu Michael Mak
Seetha E wrote: 08 Jan 2024, 02:12 [Following is a volunteer review of "Nimue" by Ayn Cates Sullivan.]
Book Cover
4 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


Nimue: Freeing Merlin by Ayn Cates Sullivan is a fictional novel with Nina Liber as the main character. Nina is a seventeen-year-old girl who lives with her mother, Diana Liber, in the 21st century. The story is divided into three main parts. In the first part, Nina and her mother are dealing with a death in the family. Diana believes that true healing may be found in their native country, Britain, and she resolves to spend the summer there with Nina. Meanwhile, Nina is troubled by recurrent dreams of a woman dressed in shimmering green with pale violet eyes who refers to her as "Mage." This woman has been described as Nina's closest friend and her worst nightmare as well. Unaware of what lies ahead, Nina arrives in Britain with her mother.

The second part of the book introduces the reader to Nina's previous life as Nimue, a powerful sorceress who lived in the 5th century. Nimue played a key role in trapping Merlin until his return and safeguarding the Holy Grail. In the present day, a mysterious woman claims that she is not an ordinary person and that she must free Merlin, who is the only one who can save the world, and find the Holy Grail. The story revolves around Nina and her purpose. Will she believe what she learns about the mystery woman and her role in saving the world from the healer? The next chapter ties together all the characters and the plot beautifully.

I enjoyed the book's theme and the way the author incorporated ancient wisdom into the story. The writing painted vivid pictures of different periods, and the characters were well-developed. The lessons learned in the book can also be applied to modern-day living. One could easily relate to Nina, Nimue, or Merlina and their actions and reactions, even in the present day.

The author of this novel has put a lot of effort into conducting research, which is apparent throughout the book. The editing team also deserves recognition for doing an excellent job. The illustrations in the book are stunning and add significant value to the reading experience.

However, some sections of the book feature extremely extensive details, while others feel rushed. I am unable to state them here to avoid revealing too much. Overall, all I have to say is that the pacing is inconsistent. Also, parts IV and V are not particularly important to the plot. It is only because of these reasons that I have decided to give the book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys this genre or is interested in reading about Celtic and Arthurian-based plots. While the book is free of profanity, it does contain a few explicit scenes, so it is best suited for a mature audience.

******
Nimue
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes
This book seems unique. Can't wait to see the combination between the Celtic and Arthurian myths. I am concerned about the pacing, though.

Re: Review of Nimue

Posted: 10 Jul 2025, 21:39
by Anu Anand
The way the story blends the modern day with Nimue’s past was really interesing. I did feel the same about some sections dragging a bit, but overall, it was still a solid and thoughtful read. Thanks for the review, @Seetha E