Introduction

In this edition of "Author Spotlight", I'm thrilled to feature Luke Eastwood, a multi-talented author, Druid, horticulturalist, musician, artist, and photographer. While his creative output spans a remarkable range of disciplines, this post will primarily focus on his latest historical work, Scotia: Lost Sister of Tutankhamun, a book that promises to challenge conventional narratives and unearth a fascinating, little-known chapter of ancient history. But Luke Eastwood's journey encompasses far more than just this new release; he's a prolific writer with a deep connection to nature, spirituality, and the ancient world. 

A Life Woven with Nature, Spirituality, and Creativity: Luke Eastwood's Journey

Luke Eastwood's life is a tapestry woven with diverse threads: a deep connection to nature, a profound exploration of spirituality, and a lifelong passion for creative expression. Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, but raised primarily in Kent and Surrey, England, he moved to London at 19 to attend university. This marked a turning point, igniting his development as a multi-faceted artist.

His early forays into music saw him explore various instruments, from recorder and clarinet to guitar and synthesizers. He was involved in the band Eclipse. By the early 1990s, he was composing electronic music and fusing it with rock and dub reggae influences in his band, Children of Dub, a project that spanned several albums and years. Alongside his musical pursuits, Eastwood discovered a passion for Apple Macintosh computers, leading him to a career in graphic design, after a placement at Mitre House Publishing. He also wrote for the university magazine Cityscape. He also produced work as a digital artist and photographer, exhibiting in small galleries.

However, a deeper spiritual calling was also taking root. In the mid-1990s, he began studying Druidry, a path that profoundly shaped his life and work. He became a practicing Druid, teacher, and celebrant, deeply involved in the Druid community. He eventually moved to Ireland in 1999. This commitment extends beyond his spiritual practice; since the late 1980s, Luke has been actively involved in environmental activism and ecology.

This multifaceted journey – from musician, designer, and artist, to Druid and author – reflects Luke Eastwood's unwavering commitment to exploring his passions and expressing his unique perspective on the world. He eventually retrained as a horticulturalist in 2006.

Scotia: Lost Sister of Tutankhamun - An Investigation into Ancient Mysteries 

Luke Eastwood's latest book, Scotia: Lost Sister of Tutankhamun, ventures into the realm of historical mystery. It weaves together ancient Egyptian history, Celtic mythology, and a tantalizing "what if" scenario, exploring the potential connection between the Amarna Egyptian royal family and ancient Ireland and Scotland.

The story centers on one of Tutankhamun's older sisters, a figure largely lost to history. Eastwood imagines her flight from Egypt following the tumultuous reign of Akhenaten and the mysterious deaths of subsequent pharaohs. He traces a possible journey, a desperate escape, a voyage to Spain, and ultimately, a final arrival in the British Isles. The central question driving the book is, why did this Egyptian queen flee her homeland, and how did she meet her end in the West of Ireland?

Scotia delves into a fascinating historical possibility, exploring a potential connection between ancient Egypt and Ireland through meticulous research and imaginative storytelling. Eastwood draws on the writings of 18th-century antiquarians and early Irish ecclesiastical scribes, re-examining their often-dismissed musings in a new light. He blends these historical threads with elements of legend and folklore, creating a compelling narrative that challenges conventional understandings of ancient history. 

The book has already received high praise from established authors and experts.

For more detailed information about Scotia: Lost Sister of Tutankhamun, including official details and publication information, you can download the official press release here.

Exploring Ancient Paths: Luke Eastwood's Other Works

While Scotia represents a foray into historical mystery, Luke Eastwood has built a substantial body of work exploring themes of spirituality, nature, and Celtic culture across various genres.

• The Druid's Primer: A comprehensive guide to Druidry, drawing on ancient sources and Celtic traditions.

• The Journey: A collection of spiritual wisdom and reflections, drawing on diverse traditions.

• The Druid Garden: A guide to organic gardening infused with Druidic principles and ancient wisdom.

• Samhain: The Roots of Halloween: An exploration of the history and folklore of the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.

• Kerry Folk Tales (with Gary Branigan): A collection of myths, legends, and local stories from County Kerry, Ireland.

• Dingle Folk Tales: A compilation of folk tales from the Dingle Peninsula in Ireland.

• How To Save The Planet: A practical guide to sustainable living, offering ten simple steps individuals can take to make a difference.

• A Path Through the Forest: A collection of his articles and interviews on Druidry, nature, religion and environmentalism, and the landscape and history of Ireland.

• Through The Cracks In The Concrete The Wilderness Grows: A collection of poems divided into two sections: social commentary/urban life and nature.

• Where The Hazel Falls: An anthology of poetry which Eastwood edited, and features some of his own poems.

What Readers Are Saying About Luke Eastwood's Work

Luke Eastwood's diverse writings have resonated with readers, who praise his insightful perspectives on Druidry, his engaging storytelling, and his passionate advocacy for the environment. Here's a selection of reader feedback:

• "Eastwood’s exploration of the royal line of Ancient Egypt is nothing short of heroic and he leaves no stone unturned in his literary archeologist efforts to research and convey the potential migration of Egyptians to Ireland and Scotland..." - Green Egg Magazine on Scotia: Lost Sister of Tutankhamun.
• "This is a no-nonsense, no punches pulled ten step guide to living in a way that is viable for the planet. It’s full of interesting bits of information about what kinds of impact different activities have...It’s all very readable and digestible." - Druid Life Blog on How to Save the Planet.   
• "...The Druid Garden has information on everything you need to begin or enhance your own gardening in a natural and organic way...this book has something for everyone." - Indie Shaman Magazine on The Druid Garden.   
• "Luke's essays show his passion for nature spirituality and knowledge about Druidry...He also discusses ethics in religion, calling for more honesty, integrity and tolerance whatever path we follow, but also urging us to avoid complacency. A Path through the Forest is thought-provoking reading..." - Lucya Szachnowski, A Bad Witch's Blog on A Path Through the Forest.

The Druid's Primer is celebrated as a wonderful and well-rounded introduction to Druidry. Readers appreciate its blend of facts, lore, and practical application within a modern context, making it a thoroughly enjoyable read. See reviews on Amazon. 

The Journey is commended for its concise yet impactful wisdom, relevant to any spiritual path. Readers highlight its challenge to modern materialism and its emphasis on a virtuous life and connection with the divine. The book's accessible style and insightful reflections are praised for their ability to open new perspectives. See reviews on Amazon. 

Beyond the Page: Art, Photography, and Environmentalism

Luke Eastwood's creativity extends beyond the written word to encompass visual arts and a deep commitment to environmental activism. He is an accomplished photographer and digital artist, and has exhibited his work in small galleries. He also creates art through drawing and painting. Since the late 1980s, Luke has been actively involved in environmental activism and ecology. His passion for protecting the Earth is reflected not only in his direct activism but also in his artistic and literary endeavors, where he frequently addresses themes of nature, sustainability, and conservation.

A Call to Connection

Ready to delve into the ancient mysteries explored in Scotia: Lost Sister of Tutankhamun? Order your copy today! For a signed copy, visit Luke Eastwood's official website.

You can explore more of Luke Eastwood's work on his website, and connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Goodreads and Rumble.

You can purchase his books through the Amazon affiliate links below: 

• Scotia: Lost Sister of Tutankhamun
• The Druid's Primer
• The Journey
• The Druid Garden
• Samhain
• Kerry Folk Tales
• Dingle Folk Tales (free to read with Kindle Unlimited)
• How To Save The Planet (free to read with Kindle Unlimited)
• A Path Through the Forest

All of the above books are also available for sale directly from the author's website, along with the two exclusives below:

• Through the Cracks in the Concrete the Wilderness Grows
• Where The Hazel Falls

Conclusion

Luke Eastwood is an author, artist, and activist whose life and work reflect a deep engagement with the natural world, ancient wisdom, and creative expression. From his musical beginnings to his profound connection to Druidry and his commitment to environmentalism, Eastwood consistently explores the intersections of spirituality, history, and sustainability. His prolific writing career, spanning diverse genres, offers readers a rich and varied exploration of these themes. His new book, Scotia: Lost Sister of Tutankhamun, continues this journey, challenging conventional historical narratives and inviting readers to consider the intriguing possibilities of the past. Whether you're drawn to his explorations of Celtic traditions, his passionate advocacy for the environment, or his imaginative storytelling, Luke Eastwood's work offers a wealth of knowledge and a call to connect with the world around us.

Thanks for reading!

Angela G. Williams

*This post contains affiliate links. For more information about my affiliate relationships, please see my Affiliate Disclosure.