Already well known for several popular nonfiction books on herbalism, tree lore, and Pagan spirituality, Ellen Evert Hopman ventures for the first time into fiction with her new novel, Priestess of the Forest: A Druid Journey. In a setting full of potential social and spiritual conflict, we enter the world of fourth century Ireland to follow the story of Ethne, a Druid priestess and healer, as she struggles to balance love and duty, choice and fate, during a time when an increasingly Romanized Christianity has begun to seep its way into the culture and politics of pagan Celtic society. Hopman presents her book as a "bardic teaching tale," striving to present an engaging and historically accurate picture of a thriving pre-Christian society, while also providing newcomers to Druidry with the kind of basic information, inspiration and guidance they might find in the typical Druidry 101 instructional book. Ambitious in scope, Priestess of the Forest struggles at times to live up to its aims, with neither the consistent artfulness of a seasoned storyteller, nor the reliable organization and clarity of a handbook; however, moments of moving ritual and historical insight do speak to Hopman's burgeoning talent that will, hopefully, come to full bloom in future works.

Continued... To read more, check out Bond of Druids: Issue 1 (www.mygrove.us/bond_of_druids/index.htm)

"A fascinating and romantic historical novel rooted in the author's
deep knowledge of Celtic Druidism."
-Isaac Bonewits, ArchDruid emeritus of Ár nDraíocht Féin (A Druid
Fellowship)

"From the very beginning I was drawn into this story and found
myself mesmerized by it. It is a tale which rings with sincerity, warmth,
color, and depth."
-Philip Carr-Gomm, Chosen Chief of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids

"An authentically human tale of love, hope, and survival. Once I
started reading, I was held captive until the very last page."
-Christopher A. LaFond, Druid Harper and Professor of languages, Boston
College

"Wisewomen and clever men are in for a treat in this magnificent
book; another thread in the re-weaving of our sacred wisdom."
-Susan Weed, Wisewoman, Herbalist, and author

"A lively tale of ancient Druids and Irish warriors based on
substantial research into Celtic history and tradition. While set in a
richly imagined ancient Ireland, Priestess of the Forest: A Druid Journey
offers an intriguing vision of a Druid path with lessons to teach the modern
world."
-John Michael Greer, Grand Archdruid, Ancient Order of Druids in America ( )