I was completely drawn in by boru, the gritty retelling of Brian Boru's rise to power! The 10th-century Irish setting is vividly atmospheric, and the brutal guerrilla warfare against the Vikings feels incredibly authentic and high-stakes. Experiencing the story through the perspectives of various allies and tyrants gives a fantastic, well-rounded view of a fractured kingdom. While the complex political maneuvering of the rival kings can occasionally slow the momentum of the action, it remains a thrilling, blood-soaked start to what promises to be an epic historical saga!
Barra Ó Murchú
Blood, salt, iron, ash. Novels of the Irish Sea World between the 10th and 11th centuries: monastic raids, dynastic feuds, the long memory of violence.
Two novels · One complete · One coming soon · More planned
Featured Books
BORU: Forging a King
The epic story of Ireland's Greatest Warrior King. Born the youngest son of a minor chieftain, Brian Boru rises through blood, intrigue, and betrayal to claim a kingdom. Set in the savage world of 10th century Ireland, where Gaelic kings and Viking warlords fight for every scrap of land and power.
Boru: Book 2
King of Munster was never enough. The second chapter in the epic story of Brian Boru follows his relentless campaign to seize the High Kingship of Ireland itself. From the halls of Cashel to the shores of Dublin, through alliance, treachery and open war, it ends where Irish history remembers him best. The Battle of Clontarf, 1014.
The past
brought back to life.
Barra Ó Murchú was born and raised in Wexford, Ireland. He has spent years exploring the island on foot, combining a passion for hiking with a deep interest in its history. Ruined monastic settlements, ancient hillforts, and the landscapes where these events actually happened have shaped everything in this book. Boru: Forging a King is his debut novel and the first in a two-part series. The research was as much a journey as the writing, and he hopes readers feel that on the page. He is already at work on Book 2 which will be coming soon.
Gritty historical fiction that does not flinch. The world is dangerous, the politics are brutal, and the history is real.
Read the full bioWhat readers say
For a debut novel this is exceptionally well crafted historical fiction. What impressed me most was the balance in pacing. It avoids getting bogged down in endless detailed battle scenes, choosing instead to focus on the political intrigue and the heavy personal cost of Brian’s fight against both the Norse raiders and rival chieftains. The story moves along at a good pace while still giving the characters and quiet moments room to breathe. It sets up the rest of the series well.
What I appreciated most was that the novel doesn't rely on nonstop action to keep the pages turning. The political intrigue, family loyalties, betrayals, and moments of quiet reflection give the story real depth. Every victory comes with a cost, making the journey feel believable rather than predictable.
This was a new author for me to read, I believe this was the debut novel. It was an enjoyable experience. Book was well formatted, nicely done in cream paper, well laid out, and the world-building was interesting and unique. From the author's note helping to frame the work, to the maps, and the historical information throughout, it was a fun and enjoyable read. Looking forward to part II!
A gripping and intense historical story filled with battles, betrayal, and ambition. Brian Boru’s journey feels raw and engaging, especially as he fights not only the Vikings but also the rival forces within Ireland. The description promises a powerful tale of survival, revenge, and the struggle for a united kingdom.
Engaging and captivating story, very well written, love the history of this time in ancient Ireland
Stay in the Story
Behind the books: research notes, early extracts, news of upcoming releases. A few times a year. No spam, no noise.