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 readers to northern Celtic Britain on the precipice of the second Roman invasion, introducing us to Cartimandua, princess of the powerful Brigantes tribe.

Britain, AD 38, When destiny crowns Cartimandua queen of the Brigantes, she inherits not just the rule of her ancient tribe but an imminent war. Seeking to take advantage of the upheaval amongst the Brigantes, the Parisii tribe strikes. Cartimandua’s enemies soon discover the new Brigantes queen wears a crown of thorns and talons. Carti has no time to waste on petty squabbles. The Cailleach whispers of a looming threat from the south. Wielding ruthless strategy and strength, Cartimandua acts quickly to secure her hold on the north before an even worse darkness descends. But even amongst the shadows, there’s a ray of light. Her new alliance with the Votadini tribe finds her engaged to the enigmatic Prince Cormag. Their bond offers a glimmer of hope for a bright future. Yet, as they carve out a life together, Carti cannot escape the echo of an old love. To navigate the darkness looming on the horizon, Cartimandua must hold onto her throne and her heart with an iron grip. Can she protect her tribe and family from the rising storm? From New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak comes The Crow Queen, depicting the life of Celtic Queen Cartimandua of the Brigantes during the second Roman invasion.

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. Having defeated her enemies, Queen Cartimandua works swiftly to stabilize the north. But not all foes yield quietly. Unaware of the looming dangers beyond their shores and bolstered by formidable allies, factions of the Setantii plot rebellion. Despite facing stubborn resistance, Queen Cartimandua endeavors to form an alliance to protect all northern tribes. Cartimandua finds an unlikely ally in deposed Prince Venutiux—much to his wife’s dismay. Even with King Eddin’s support, the task proves difficult. Darkness looms for them all, even if Cartimandua seems to be the only one who can see it. Yet even amongst the chaos, a glimmer of hope persists. As Queen Cartimandua and King Consort Cormag chart their new life together, a bright future seems within reach. Blessings from Brigantia abound even amid the encroaching darkness. However, whispers from the little ones of the Hollow Hills imply that Cartimandua must wear a crown of talon and bone if she hopes to survive the darkness ahead. Continue the Eagles and Crows series with the third installment, Queen of the Hollow Hills, by New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak.

A queen's gambit. A unruly heart. Will Cartimandua's devotion be her greatest strength—or her downfall? With the arrival of the Romans, Cartimandua’s life twists into a dark dance of danger and deception. Uniting the northern tribes and the Caledonians behind her, the Brigantes queen positions herself as a potent threat and a powerful ally to Rome. Cartimandua’s gambit seemingly proves effective, allowing the Brigantes to prosper under the Roman occupation. Still, it is no secret that Rome’s ravenous nature cannot be sated. Cartimandua’s maneuvering buys the Brigantes a time of peace. But how long will it last? While the Brigantes people are secure, Cartimandua loses faith in a happy future for herself. There is nothing for her but ruling the Brigantes. When changing fortunes offer Carti another chance at romance, will she finally find the love of a lifetime? Continue the Eagles and Crows series with book four, Queen of Talon and Bone, retelling the life of Celtic queen Cartimandua of the Brigantes tribe.