Review of Nimue: Freeing Merlin (Barnes & Noble Edition)

[Jaituni Sanghavi]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Nimue: Freeing Merlin (Barnes & Noble Edition)" by Ayn Cates Sullivan.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

What if I told you that you could step into a world where the past whispers secrets to the present, where ancient mysteries entwine with the fabric of everyday life? What if I told you that you could journey through a realm where the forgotten tales of ancient deities intersect with the bustling landscapes of contemporary cities? What if I told you that you could be a part of a story that bridges myth and reality? Well, if these questions got you excited, then I have a story for you, which, when you read it, will put a green tick across all those questions. Wondering which book it is? Well, it is none other than Nimue: Freeing Merlin (Barnes & Noble Edition) by Ayn Cates Sullivan. So, let’s talk about the book a bit.

The story kicks off with a thrilling start and embarks on an exhilarating journey right from its opening chapters. Nina, the protagonist, finds herself in a fast-paced chase, fleeing from a mysterious figure in a black limousine. This thrilling escape leads her to a dark, otherworldly stairwell, where she encounters a woman in green with cryptic insights about Nina's true identity. The story then transitions to the bustling cityscape of Manhattan, where Nina's impending journey to Britain with her mother, Diana, unfolds. Their departure signifies not just a physical relocation but a departure from grief and the pursuit of ancestral ties steeped in Celtic mythology. As they land in London and arrive in Hampstead, the storyline paints a vivid picture of Nina's sense of familiarity with the new environment, hinting at a deeper connection beyond the physical. The tale then explores Nina's inner conflict, her mother's ties to mythology, and their quest for healing and rediscovery. Nina's yearning for normalcy, her budding romance, and her immersion in a world intertwined with magic and ancient beliefs create an enchanting backdrop against contemporary urban life and the mystique of the British countryside, and it's a captivating beginning that promises a journey of self-discovery, ancient legends, and the importance of family roots. So, what happens next? Well, I cannot reveal any further, for it would act like spoilers, so I suggest you read the book if this story has grabbed your attention so far.

Coming forward to my thoughts on this book, I believe Ayn Cates Sullivan's narrative is truly a masterful blend of ancient lore and contemporary exploration, and she has excelled at creating a wonderful and magical atmosphere. Personally, what gripped me most about Nimue was its ability to transport readers into a world where the mystical and the mundane coexist, creating an immersive experience.

Moreover, Sullivan's prose adeptly navigates Nina's journey, her pursuit of normalcy amid mystical revelations, and her revelation as Nimue, interlinked with Merlin's legacy and ancient magic. The exploration of Nina's relationships, especially her blossoming romance with Owen, is convolutedly merged with the overarching theme of magic and destiny. Not to forget how the depth and vividness of the mystical teachings shared in Nimue elevate the book beyond storytelling, serving as a guide for readers to delve into their spiritual depths. The author’s meticulous attention to detail, from sacred rituals to mystical sites like "St. Nectan's Glen," invites readers to reconnect with ancient wisdom and explore the hidden mysteries guarded by "Avalonian Priestesses" and Merlin himself. Thus, without any reservations, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. The book has been edited impeccably as well, and I could only find a handful of minor errors. It is also free of profane language, and thus, this leaves me no room to deduct any stars from the overall rating. I disliked absolutely nothing about this book.

In essence, I’d say that Nimue: Freeing Merlin (Barnes & Noble Edition) isn't just a tale—it's an odyssey into the realms of magic and self-realization, a journey that lingers in the mind long after the last page is turned. I would surely recommend this book to all the fantasy book lovers out there.

******
Nimue: Freeing Merlin (Barnes & Noble Edition)
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Gerry Steen]

Wow, Jaituni, you wrote a beautiful and thorough review of this book. A book of ancient mysteries and Celtic mythology could captivate my mind. Your supportive review of this book has convinced me to add this book to my bookshelves. Thank you.

[Amy Luman]

This is a great review. Even though I am nota fan of this particular myth I was encouraged to read this book. Nina’s stories and what you could reveal made me feel as if it was for me. Thanks!