Review by Patricia Killeen

Dredgemarsh: Fire and Water is a stunning book by writer Dermot McCabe—I didn’t expect to enjoy it so much, as I’m not usually into medieval world type sagas, and as I borrowed it from my daughter, I think its probably a more ‘young adult historical adventure genre’, but the story grabbed me from the first page and just refused to let go. The writing flows, and I was surprised to be seduced into a mythical world that also felt weirdly intimate.

Beyond the storytelling, this book is a work of art. The artwork throughout complements the atmosphere of the text, and the vivid imagery enhances the read. Starting with a map of the Dredgemarsh setting, which was drawn by the author, Dermot McCabe. The typography, too, is impeccable, and I loved the red capital first letter at the beginning of each chapter, along with the portraits of the characters, including the beautiful heroine, Lia Celeste, and the handsome Harry Fairgame. As a writer myself, I can truly appreciate the thought that went into every detail of the book’s design. I checked who did the character portrait illustrations, and McCabe mentions in the acknowledgements that it was his son, Conall McCabe, who created those unique illustrations. I read that ‘Forty Foot Press’, an Irish publisher, published the book; a house to keep an eye on.

Epic and military fiction are at the heart of the cinematic saga, with the Brooderstalt army led by Albrecht Pentrojan marching on the city of Dredgemarsh. Pentrojan is intent on the total annihilation of every living creature within the ancient walls. The Dredgemarsh defenders have little chance of surviving the onslaught. The King is away fighting on another front, and a scandal is unfolding at home, as it has just been revealed that Prince Fabian is not the legitimate heir to the throne. The real heir is Harry Fairgame, a man who was raised in poverty and hardship. Handsome Harry is not just a pretty face, but is highly intelligent, and he might be the man to handle the impossible challenges facing Dredgemarsh.

The romance also kept me intrigued. Lia Celeste, the daughter of General Hawksfoot, fell in love with Harry before his royal ancestry was known, and it was also love at first sight for Harry. However, Lia becomes daunted by the fact that the lowly man she fell in love with is now actually the Prince of Dredgemarsh.

Finally, I can say that Dredgemarsh: Fire and Water is beautifully paced and produced, making it a real ‘experience’. I can wholeheartedly recommend it to readers who enjoy stories that are both visually captivating and narratively compelling. A great read; bravo to the author, Dermot McCabe, for this creation!

Book available at Dredgemarsh : Fire and Water in print and ebook format.

Publisher Forty Foot Press

Reviewer: Patricia Killeen