Review of 'Beneath the Mist' by Ellen Read
Release date: September 7th, 2025
Publisher: Serenade Publishing
REVIEW
Huge congrats to Ellen Read for another riveting fantasy romance! I really enjoyed Book One of the series so was eager to read Beneath the Mist. Every scene is beautifully delivered and steeped in Irish mythology. Ellen has amazed and captivated me this time with her re-imagining of the legend of Grainine, Fionn and Diarmuid (along with the continued development of Bree, the Triple Goddess). The excellent world building, strong developed characters that I truly cared about (or disliked intensely for their evil deeds!) and a beautiful organic romance that coincides with the plot— kept me enthralled. Not to mention the ample high adventure, complex magic, deep passion, clever dialogue and creative plot twists—that filled every intriguing moment!
Once again we meet up with Bree, the Triple Goddess, joined by Lu. Together they embark on a journey to meet people across the realm while on their way to attend Cythala’s and Phoebe’s wedding in the land of the giants. On this adventure, Bree’s passion for Lu continues to blossom but initially she is unsure how things will go. When danger ramps up, these events inevitably bring about some changes—including the status of their relationship. I enjoyed watching these two and, of course, cheered them on as they faced the trials together as a unified force and became closer.
I also marvelled at the ongoing character development of the Triple Goddess side of Bree. Each time she finds herself in a difficult situation where her people are under threat, she rises to the occasion with grace and splendour. Hidden talents awaken or are unlocked within her; often set off by these sudden dangerous events. When these exceptional magic gifts/abilities/friends come to the surface as trouble increases, she learns more about herself and her mother’s part in her life. The legacy she inherits is very important and essential in fighting off the evil goddess Mór who continues to plot destruction and attempt ways to deceive her with the sole purpose of ending Bree’s life. Even by turning Bree’s allies or friends into enemies. And by trying to kill those persons Bree loves. When sister Seraphina comes under threat with more than one attempt on her life, Bree and Lu are compelled to take action. They decide to go after Mór the evil goddess who has been releasing a geas /curse on select members of the community. Of course, we know there will be battles, near misses, death and destruction as they enter a dangerous realm beneath the mist.
I truly enjoyed the further unfolding of the second instalment of the trilogy that continues to blossom like a gorgeous flower with its layers and layers of magic and mystery. There are some very sad moments, too, even acts of betrayal as Bree, along with Lu, attempt to save the individuals they love. Fighting Mór, the evil one, is exhausting—not to mention frightening, as she continues to lurk in the shadows, disguise herself and be a thorn in everyone’s flesh. But beware, she is cooking up a new wicked plot which is hinted upon in Beneath the Mist that I am sure Book three will render in full colour as it is the final book of the series. Without doubt there will be lots of tension, action and near death experiences and possibly more heart-breaking scenes. I definitely recommend this series for Ellen Read has done an amazing job with her re-imagining of beloved Irish tales. And I for one cannot wait to read the next and final chapter! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Ellen Read for a review copy.
