Author Page – Micheál

When writing ancient historical fantasy novels, Phil uses the pen name Micheál Cladáin.

Phil studied Classics and developed a love of Greek and Roman culture through those studies. In particular, he loved their mythologies. As well as a classical education, bedtime stories consisted of tales read from a great tome of Greek Mythology, and he was destined to become a storyteller from those times.

Award Winning The Iron Between

Get ready for an epic journey through ancient times! Follow Genonn as he embarks on a thrilling quest to deliver Lorg Mór, the Hammer of the Gods, to tribes across the straits of Pwll Ceris.
When his daughter unexpectedly joins him, the stakes are raised even higher. As Genonn grapples with conflicting duties and desires, the fate of his family and the clans hangs in the balance.
Meanwhile, Agricola questions his commander’s motives as he faces off against Queen Boudica’s mighty army. What unfolds will alter the course of history and shape the destiny of two extraordinary individuals.
Hammer is a gripping tale that blends the best elements of David Gemmell and Bernard Cornwell, making for an unforgettable historical fantasy adventure!
The tumultuous year of the Four Emperors is coming to an end. Rome is reeling from brutal civil war and mutiny. Praetor Agricola is summoned to the palace only to encounter his long-lost love, who he believed to be dead, fleeing through the dense fog and into the Suburra. Despite giving chase, she manages to elude him, compelling him to dispatch his second-in-command to track her down.
Meanwhile, the arrival of Gul in Rome brings distressing news, prompting Clíodhna to reluctantly agree to return to her home in Caer Leb. However, before they can depart, they are apprehended by the Praetorian Guard on charges of sedition and face the terrifying prospect of being fed to the lions in the arena.
Amidst this chaos, Mucianus, acting as Governor of Rome in Vespasian’s absence, appoints Agricola as Legate of the Legio XX Valeria Victrix, sending him to Britannia to assume command. Determined to rescue Clíodhna from captivity, Agricola resorts to deception, risking the ire of the Governor and creating powerful adversaries as he embarks on a Herculean task to secure her freedom.
Their departure from Rome sparks a perilous pursuit by relentless adversaries who will stop at nothing to ensure that Agricola and Clíodhna pay the ultimate price. As they flee for their lives, the suspense and danger escalate to a thrilling crescendo.

A satisfyingly gritty and complex tale of a noble Roman commander and a valiant Christian woman. — Kirkus Review
The long-anticipated finale to The Iron Between series, Anvil, a thrilling saga of war and treachery, love and loss, is available for preorder.
It’s the year CE 77. Vespasian names Agricola as governor of Britannia.
Upon his arrival, Agricola learns of an Ordovician assault orchestrated by his nemesis, Luchar. A cavalry outpost lies in ruins, and the sons of Rome’s senators have been mercilessly slaughtered. Memories of a similar tragedy flood Agricola’s thoughts, as he recalls the brutal murder of his friend Quintus at the hands of the same Celta warrior. Fuelled by a thirst for vengeance, Agricola launches a relentless campaign to wipe out the Ordovician people, spearheading the conquest of Mona and beyond…
Anvil is available to download at the following links:
For the UK: Click here
For the US: Click here

A Prelude to War Part Two: Battle

Blurb

The call for a new High King rings ever louder!

When Queen Medb embarks on a quest to steal Cooley’s famous bull to discredit Mac Nessa, the King of Ulster, the Hound stands in her way. A warrior renowned for his skill and lack of mercy, the Hound successfully defends each river crossing, defeating champion after champion. His bravery and skill give the Red Branch time to mobilise, and Ulster’s army defeats the Queen’s army on the hill at Gáirech.

Soundly beaten, Medb’s warriors rampage through the kingdoms in search of the riches she promised. Amidst the chaos, someone murders the druid Kathvar. His son, Genonn, is convinced that only two people could be responsible. However, to prove it, he needs the help of his old friend, Conall, who has mysteriously disappeared. 

To find Conall, he sets off in the company of the seeress Fedelm—who he cannot refuse, her lover, the warrior Bradán—inflaming Genonn’s jealousy—and the innocent youth Lee Flaith, who must prove his heritage or face execution by the Elder Council.

As we go to print, over 200,000 readers on Royal Road have viewed A Prelude to War.

“I am really looking forward to reading more books by this very talented author.” — Book Bandit’s Library

Links

UK: Click Here

US: Click Here

Milesian Father of Hounds: Conall

Blurb

When Ulster’s shamed King, Mac Nessa, places a bounty on his head, Conall of the Victories—Ériu’s last hope—finds himself on the run, leaving the tyrant free to seize the high kingship.

Fleeing to the icy north, Conall swears an oath to Malthe, a Jutish jarl. Together, they unite with other northern tribes, forging a powerful alliance to push back the encroaching Roman legions threatening the vast forests of Germania. After a hard-fought battle in Teutoburg, they return to Lindholm only to find betrayal and tragedy have struck, destroying the tranquility of the peaceful settlement.

When the druid Genonn arrives with Mac Nessa’s son, Cúscraid. Conall decides to renege on his oath and fight for his homeland. With the unwavering strength of the shieldmaiden Skadi, Conall returns to Ériu, ready to fight for the kingdoms he holds dear.

Embark on a thrilling adventure that uniquely blends historical fantasy fiction with heart-pounding action. Bernard Cornwell meets John Gwynne in this seat-of-your-pants narrative, promising a reading experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Links

UK: Click Here.

US: Click Here.

Micheál’s other Books

Amazon UK Links

Amazon US Links