The Blackthorn Queen

Eagles and Crows, Book 1

By: Melanie Karsak

Narrated by: Lesley Parkin

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.

From New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak, The Blackthorn Queen transports listeners to northern Celtic Britain on the precipice of the second Roman invasion, introducing us to Cartimandua, princess of the powerful Brigantes tribe.

©2023 Clockpunk Press (P)2024 Clockpunk Press

Amazing Book!! Amazing Narration!!

I absolutely loved this book and was a 5 star read for me!
If you are familiar with the Celtic Rebels series, you have already briefly met Carti.
Cartimandua - Carti is strong, independent, and has a brilliant mind. Princess of the Brigantes, her father was murder and she is surrounded by many she can not trust. This story was fantastic and brilliant with complex characters, mystery, intrigue, celtic mysticism, and so much more! The audio narration was an absolute delight! Lesley Parkin is a perfect fit for the story and does an outstanding job making each character come alive!!

Excellent Read!

I really enjoyed Carti’s story. I love historical fiction and all the little details added to this book. I thought the narrator was perfect as well.

excellent story

well written story line, loved the mix of magic and love. fantastic narrator as well! can't wait to see where Carti goes next!

Excellent storyline and narration!

I’m a fan of Melanie’s books and love this historical fiction book in her series. I’m now going to highly anticipate the continuation of this story! The narration was perfect as always! I can’t find anything I disliked about this book.

A Fantastic Read!

This was a fantastic read! The combination of the wonderful storytelling and the narrator’s voice, made for a captivating read. It was so easy to get lost in another world. I can’t wait for the next book! Highly recommend!