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With the release of Queen of Ash and Iron, the final novel in Boudica's tale, many people will be wondering what's next. I'm delighted to share that we will be staying in this world for awhile longer. We will move north to Brigantes territory for the tale of Cartimandua, the first recoded queen of Britain in a series called Eagles and Crows. The first novel in this series, The Blackthorn Queen, releases July 25th!
Cartimandua's experience of the second Roman invasion was very different from Boudica's. With her tribe embroiled in internal strife, the Roman invasion hit them differently, and Cartimandua played an entirely different game of chess. I am LOVING unravelling the moves made by this dark queen to secure her crown. As well, with this novel, I am digging into the worship of the Cailleach, the legends of the little creatures of the hollow hills, the goddess Brigantia, and more. I hope you're excited as I am to learn about this fascinating figure.
About the novel:
From ancient henges to windswept mountains, dive into a world where pagan gods rule, powerful priestesses weave magic, and fierce Celtic tribes battle for dominance.
Britain, AD 38, Princess Cartimandua—Carti—of the Brigantes tribe faces an uncertain future when her father’s sudden death ignites turmoil. Suspicion falls on the Crow People of the Votadini tribe, straining the fragile peace between the factions.
But they’re not the only ones bearing a grudge.
A tangled web of political games soon unfolds. When enigmatic Prince Cormag of the Votadini shows the princess unwanted attention, the Brigantes’ alliance with the Carvetti is shaken. Cartimandua’s dream of marrying gallant Prince Venutiux of the Carvetti is put at risk. Soon, Carti finds herself at the center of a whirlwind of divided loyalties.
Yet amidst the misty forests and the blackthorn trees, the Cailleach, the ancient dark goddess of the Brigantes people, whispers that all is not as it seems. With the fate of her tribe at stake, Carti must learn to navigate the treacherous waters of politics, duty, magic, and love.