Petal on Black Bough

Petal on a Black Boughis historical. fantasy. It is a fusion of Celtic mythology with the reality of World War I to the start of World War II, a period that includes the Irish struggle for independence. They mythological warrior-goddess Medb (Maeve) known for sorcery, licentiousness, and affinity for war, emerges from the past to seek warriors who will help with Ireland's independence. her powers also enable her to shape shift, change ages, and migrate through space and time. Medb finds her hero, Philip in a French hospital for the wounded where she masquerades as nurse Lady Madeline. Unfortunately, their alliance and affair result in tragedy because of her eventual transformation to a near human state. Her change affects those within her circle, including her heir, Maeve Dwyer to whom Medb has given her spirit. The others in the group include Maeve's artist lover Matthew, as well as her father Patrick who smuggles guns to the Irish; but the irony of the conversion from Medb to Maeve Dwyer affirms the futility of war and the necessity of love and peace.