Overall rating and opinion of "Nimue: Freeing Merlin" by Ayn Cates Sullivan

[Amanda Brouillette Gladden]

I just started this book the other day and so far I'm struggling getting into it. I always give a book 50 pages though. 7/10 times I do this, I really end up enjoying the book and finish it. The other 3/10 are books just don't match me. Hopefully I get surprised and drawn into this one.

[Abraham Ozo]

I just purchased this book and I have already fallen in love with the intro. I will get back to this when I complete it.

[Nenye Charles]

I recently made a purchase of the book. I’m curious to know about its contents, the sequence of events, how the events climaxed, and it’s eventual resolution. I am really looking forward to it.

[Kebun Bunga]

The book description for "Nimue: Freeing Merlin" by Ayn Cates Sullivan offers an intriguing premise that combines modern-day experiences with ancient Celtic mythology. It explores self-discovery, reincarnation, and fulfilling one's destiny.

The concept of a young woman realizing her past life as Nimue, the Lady of the Lake, and being tasked with finding and freeing Merlin is captivating. This premise sets the stage for a unique blend of contemporary and mythological storytelling.

The mention of Celtic rituals, mystical practices, and visualizations provides insight into the depth of research and immersive world-building that readers can expect from the book. It allows readers to delve into Celtic and Arthurian mysteries, adding an educational dimension to the narrative.

The quotes from other authors in the genre who praise the book's magical and mythic qualities further enhance its appeal. Overall, the book description seems promising, and for readers interested in mythological and mystical themes, "Nimue: Freeing Merlin" could be an engaging and thought-provoking read.

[Anaïs Quesson]

I just submitted my official review, I finished the book yesterday. I loved it! It was not what I was expecting when I started reading, but I still enjoyed the story. I particularly liked Nimue's character development, as she grows from an apprentice to a powerful sorceress. Ended up being a 5 stars rating!

[Juma Florence]

What i liked the most about the book is its ability to transport readers into a dreamlike world and its genuine feel, akin to old classics.

[Cara Wilding]

This book genuinely surprised me! I enjoyed the character development the most. Also, the way the author spun a unique tale from a well-known legend. I grew up with stories of knights in shining armor and had much exposure to Arthurian legend; having a heroine was new and refreshing! I particularly appreciated the range of internal conflict Nina/Nimue had to deal with as she transitioned to adulthood.

I didn’t care for the elaborate language used in the book. While the writing style was dreamy and beautiful, at times, it became hard to read, and I felt bogged down chasing the meaning of words. At the end of the book, there are visualization activities that I didn’t find added to my reading experience either. This is why I gave it a 3 out of 4 rating.

This would fit in the fantasy fiction genre, romantic fantasy sub-genre. When I first started reading it, it felt like young adult but moved into more adult themes later. Many genres were woven into the text, including adventure, mystery, fairytale, folklore, religion and spirituality, and even science-fiction.

The cover and title were what initially drew me to the book. However, after reading the book, I don’t think it fits. The cover had a “Game of Thrones” feel to it. It made me expect dark and scary magic (there was some) and a more sinister antagonist. In a way, I initially felt disappointed…but the storyline was so good that I ended up pleasantly surprised.

This book has so many lessons that it is hard to pick the greatest. The one that hit me the deepest was the importance of keeping balance within your mind, body, and soul. I recommend it because the story is inspiring and engaging. It was just fun to read!

[John Aburzzi]

I can't give a rate now but then based on the few chapters I have read, I have been enjoying the book.

[Anaïs Quesson]

The cover and title were what initially drew me to the book. However, after reading the book, I don’t think it fits. The cover had a “Game of Thrones” feel to it. It made me expect dark and scary magic (there was some) and a more sinister antagonist. In a way, I initially felt disappointed…but the storyline was so good that I ended up pleasantly surprised.

This book has so many lessons that it is hard to pick the greatest. The one that hit me the deepest was the importance of keeping balance within your mind, body, and soul. I recommend it because the story is inspiring and engaging. It was just fun to read!

You've got a point there, Cara. Generally I'm glad to read I'm not the only one misled by the cover — even the summary seemed to promise an epic time-travel quest to 'free' Merlin. But despite these initial feelings, Nimue's storyline is so interesting I was also quickly engaged in the story.

I enjoyed the story, but didn't think I would take away any teachings. Do you feel like you will use this in your life? Balancing your mind, body and soul?

[Clauson Justin]

The official review caught my attention and I decided to pick up the book, to me this is a five star book. I have one reservation anyway. I did not appreciate that the book felt repetitive for me. Aside from this (which may be peculiar to me), every other thing was spot on and I would recommend this book too.

[Cara Wilding]

You've got a point there, Cara. Generally I'm glad to read I'm not the only one misled by the cover — even the summary seemed to promise an epic time-travel quest to 'free' Merlin. But despite these initial feelings, Nimue's storyline is so interesting I was also quickly engaged in the story.

I enjoyed the story, but didn't think I would take away any teachings. Do you feel like you will use this in your life? Balancing your mind, body and soul?

Anais - I was thinking, "EPIC fantasy coming my way..." too! So you were not alone!

I might not have had the same takeaway if I had read this six months ago. It's sometimes wild how books can hit you differently, depending on what is going on in your life while reading them. In the book, Nimue says she felt she neglected her physical body; I reflected on how I always care for my body, but I don't put that same effort into my mind/mental health. Many people learn the hard way how much mental health can impact physical well-being! I don't know if I will "use" it as much as it reinforces and reminds me to take better care of myself!

Since you didn't have a specific takeaway, what was your favorite part of the book?!

[Cara Wilding]

I just submitted my official review, I finished the book yesterday. I loved it! It was not what I was expecting when I started reading, but I still enjoyed the story. I particularly liked Nimue's character development, as she grows from an apprentice to a powerful sorceress. Ended up being a 5 stars rating!

I just submitted my review a few days ago as well...we'll have to compare notes!

[Rishaunda Lynnette Britton]

I recently purchased the book, and I do think that the author did exceptionally with the vivid word choices. I hope this intriguing narration continues, in which case I would be sure delighted to give it 5 out of 5 stars.

[Jacqui Warren]

Absolutely loved this book and gave it top ratings. Time travel, Merlin, gods, goddesses and priestesses are all subject matters I love in a book. It was also great to follow the locations as once in England all the places she visited were places I know and love. Excellent book.

[Anaïs Quesson]

You've got a point there, Cara. Generally I'm glad to read I'm not the only one misled by the cover — even the summary seemed to promise an epic time-travel quest to 'free' Merlin. But despite these initial feelings, Nimue's storyline is so interesting I was also quickly engaged in the story.

I enjoyed the story, but didn't think I would take away any teachings. Do you feel like you will use this in your life? Balancing your mind, body and soul?

Anais - I was thinking, "EPIC fantasy coming my way..." too! So you were not alone!

I might not have had the same takeaway if I had read this six months ago. It's sometimes wild how books can hit you differently, depending on what is going on in your life while reading them. In the book, Nimue says she felt she neglected her physical body; I reflected on how I always care for my body, but I don't put that same effort into my mind/mental health. Many people learn the hard way how much mental health can impact physical well-being! I don't know if I will "use" it as much as it reinforces and reminds me to take better care of myself!

Since you didn't have a specific takeaway, what was your favorite part of the book?!

Oh indeed, this is very interesting. It is true that mental health has a lot of impact on physical health. You're totally right!

My favorite part was probably Nimue's apprenticeship. Like, the beginning of part 2. I liked how she slowly learned more and more about the elements and her powers, with the help of Naradek and the other priestesses.
I also wish her first stay in Annwn was more detailed. It seemed so different than how we usually picture the Underworld, I would have loved to learn more.