The Crow Queen

Eagles and Crows #2

by Melanie Karsak

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.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Mythology, Ebooks, Scotland

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2023

About the author

New York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.

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Reviews

[Brooke (Books are my Favorite!!) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen Carti is a new favorite historical figure. The political intrigue continues, and with more of the spiritual magical elements with goddesses and religion. The plot in this second book may be slightly less compelling than the first, as it includes a love triangle, but still really strong overall, and enjoyable all around for me.

[Cody Marie Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel as though I know what the Queen of my ancestors may have been like by reading The Crow Queen. The historical accounts we have of Cartimandua are from Roman writers who say she was loyal to them. Seeing her come to life in this series, I'm not so certain of that. I tend to think she did what was necessary to protect the Brigantes people. She wasn't so different from Boudica protecting the Iceni, and being surrounded by people who loved her.

Cormag isn't in the known historical record, but who's to say there wasn't someone like him in Cartimandua's life. I love the way Melanie weaves the Celtic pantheon, lore and possible traditions into the stories. It makes the writing come to life for me, a descendant of both the Brigante and Parisii tribes. Can't wait for The Queen of the Hollow Hills!

[Lisette Kristensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carti's adventures continue and this book is loaded with great sub plots. The characters are so well developed they come to life on the page. Don't miss this series!

[Mary Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adding to the Tales

This book of Queen Cartimandua adds to the tales written by Melanie that I have read. Being that I've read Gruoch and Boudica,I was familiar with Cartimandua. Here is another woman of great strength, making decisions for her people, and putting her true desires last. This section of her life has war, but also joy. Foreboding abounds, and I have a feeling that book three will not be as kind to Cartimandua as book two.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

enchanting and captivating

Melanie Karsak has once again written a not soon to be forgotten book. From page one I was swept into a world of unrequited love, tyranny and hope. I eagerly await book 3 in this series.

[Lauralee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crow Queen picks up where The Blackthorn Queen left off. Cartimandua is now the rightful heir of the Brigantes. In order to be crowned Queen, Cartimandua must pass Cailleach's trial. Yet, passing the trial is the least of Cartimandua’s worries. There are threats of a looming war and the invasion of the Romans. Could Cartimandua be strong to protect her people?

In The Blackthorn Queen, Cartimandua was a grief-stricken and naive princess. In this sequel, Cartimandua must learn how to rule as a Queen. Queen Cartimandua has to put her people’s interests above her own. I really love Cartimandua. She has to make many difficult sacrifices, including her heart. As the novel progresses, she is wondering if she is no longer the girl she once was. Even her identity has changed. Everyone around her only sees her as the Queen of Brigantes and rarely calls her by her own name. Therefore, Queen Cartimandua is not only trying to do what’s right for the people, but also is trying to find her own identity. She is transitioning into a young and naive Queen into a very strong and capable ruler! I can’t wait to see what happens to her in the next installment!

Overall, this novel is about duty, identity, and love. All of the characters seemed very realistic and complex. The setting of Ancient Scotland is very beautiful and full of historical detail. I love how Mrs. Karsak has interwoven Celtic mythology into Queen Cartimandua’s tale! The Crow Queen was a very magical, lyrical, and enchanting take on this forgotten but important queen! The story was short and very fast-paced! I was so enthralled by the first page that I read it in one sitting! My only complaint was that I wish that it was longer! That means that I have to wait a few more months to find out what happens to Queen Cartimandua! How I wish the next installment, Queen of the Hollow Hills would release immediately! Nevertheless, the Eagles and Crows series must not be missed! I recommend this for fans of Mists of Avalon, The Horse Goddess, and The Lost Queen!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carti is crowned queen and war is brewing. Carti vows to be the best queen she can be for her people. She will stand for them at any time no matter what the cost to herself may be. She vows to always do what is best for the crown.

With war brewing Carti must make some very hard decisions if she is going to keep her people and the crown safe. Being queen is a hard job indeed. I can’t imagine all the decisions and the turmoil Carti must face day after day. The things she must do and endure for her people.

I couldn’t imagine having to marry the best person for the crown and not the person she may be in love with. She must always follow her head and not her heart. Her life is no longer hers to do with as she wishes.

But she did make this choice and I would stand behind her every step of the way. I mean it's her life and her choice. We all make the same kind of choices every day even if we are not aware of it or believe it to be true.

I enjoyed reading The Crow Queen just as much or better than I did The Blackthorn Queen book one in the Eagles and Crows series. I loved all the history and fighting. The battles kept me glued to the pages wondering how they were all going to turn out.

The Crow Queen kept me on the edge of my seat, heart pounding wondering, and waiting as I raced to the end to see who was going to come out on top. The characters kept me racing to the end as I witnessed battle after battle. I was rooting for Carti hoping everything was going to end in her favor.

The descriptions were so vividly written I had no trouble whatsoever seeing it all play out in my head as if I were watching a movie. I would truly like to see the Eagles and Crows series made into a movie or a TV show.

I would recommend The Crow Queen to anyone who likes a good historical romance story! Grab a copy of The Crow Queen today!

[rainee rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

That sad moment the book ends...

I was not ready for either book to end. I love Melanie's books. I have read so many there are not many books I can find myself rereading but hers come to me that way. I am sad that I must wait for the other book to be released. But I know in the end it'll be all that more exciting when it does! :)

[Kellie Nylund · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful continuation of The Blackthorn Queen. This takes place where the previous book left off. It was wonderful to see how quickly Carti adjusted to being Queen and witnessing the trial of the twin goddess all the queens of the Brigantes to rule was interesting to read about. I loved this series and can’t wait to read the next book!

I highly recommend checking out this series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE Queen Cartimandua! She has steel in her that will not bend but she is also a woman of compassion. This book celebrates both sides of her and I loved it. I love that as a reader I get to experience the rites and rituals from this time. I love that she gets to meet her Gods and Goddesses. Such a beautiful story! Melanie Karsak has a wonderful writing style that draws the reader into the world and brings it to life. Phenomenal.

[Ashley Mohr · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always with Melanie an amazing read

This book is great!!! I am a little partial with this being my favorite author, but nonetheless it was amazing and I can’t wait for the next book in the series! I am so happy Cartimandua has found love and I know what is coming from the Boudicca book but can’t wait to see it from Carti’s point of view. I will be patiently waiting for book 3 :)

[Sandra Hagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book pulled at all of my emotions. Carti is brutal and ruthless but also young and naive. I loved it! Every bit of war, every bit of emotional struggle, everything! She is a complex character and the author does a wonderful job of building her and the other characters.

[Cleocutie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great continuation of the story. Carti has been crowned queen and is determined to be the best queen she can be. This book tells about the tough decisions she has to make in her determination to do so.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crow Queen

Another Amazing story by such an Amazing author! Love Melanie books!!
looking forward to the story's continuation!
Hope its longer lol 😊

[kelly mccurley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crow Queen

As always with Melanie's stories, I fell right into it. I'm never able to get enough. I can't wait to find out how she deals with Rome.

[judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some of Carli first thought after the death of her parents at her mother’s private burial: “ everything had come undone. My father is dead, my mother was dead and dishonored,.Venutiux was to marry Alys. Cormag has left Rigidonum to seek his mothers approval for our marriage. Everything around me has changed. Then Eddie her longest childhood friend confessed his love to Carti by telling her “ I should have been a King, your king , not a false Venutiux, Not the Bastard Prince. Not them Carti, Not them . Me. I should be your husband. I.. I am the one who truly loves you, who has always loved you…”
This is what as a princess she faced, as the Queen she had to put her country and people first. She had to choose alliance between tribes quickly. War was coming so she would be a queen of war. This is her story of how she starts ruling her kingdom. This book is filled with sorrow , pain, deception and betrayal. There is love for Cartl but she has to rule with a stone heart not with emotion. I really have enjoyed this book and series. The thought of arranged marriage is difficult to understand but is was the way of Carti’s world. I would give this book more than 5 stars if possible.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

First read of the new year, first review.

It took me a little bit to get back into the story. I read The Blackthorn Queen when it first came out, but it's been a few months. Thank goodness for the character list at the beginning. I think more books should be that way.

Anyways, as always, a highly enjoyable book by Melanie Karsak (big shock, I know) about the first queen of the Brigantes. It's got plenty of action, a semi love triangle and a girl learning the ropes about being in charge.

I was a little disappointed with her test at the beginning, it didn't seem to be a test of character or strength that seemed to make the previous rulers unable to speak about it... But that's OK.

I really enjoy the character of Queen Cartimandua, she's well written, soft, loving, caring, but hard when she needs to be. (that seems to be a Karsak requirement). I was rooting for Eddin, but really after Cormag makes the save, it's all him.

Overall it kept me going back and I finished it in 5 days (stupid work) and I cannot wait for the next book, out in July I believe.

[Leah Hartop-Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like this book was written for ME. The Cailleach and Brigantia are goddesses I connect to deeply. The Brigantes once ruled the lands in which I live. The focus around the River Tees made me feel so personally involved in the world and story and I could see Carti's army in Eston Hills and envision exactly where the camps would be, where Mydils Fort would be, and this connection to my home lands made me feel a part of the story. I really felt like these could be my people. Cartimandua could be my queen. And what an excellent queen she is. Her character development was incredible, I'm glad that the romance was a minor side plot but I was happy with where that went, too. I can't wait for the next book!

[Freya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: I received an ARC of this book.

This was a wonderful sequel. I read it in 3 days it was so good! There was a lot more story movement in this one than the last and really nice fleshing out of the characters.

I had a moment of confusion when they are being wed and it describes it as being nighttime then, later, its their wedding night but the sun is going down over the ocean? I read it several times thinking I was missing something but couldn't find anything saying the party lasted all night into the next day. Could be I just kept missing it. Otherwise, just a weird timeline issue with no real consequence.

Overall, amazing! I can't wait for the next one!

[Mystyc Metrik · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crow Queen, the second installment of Cartimandua's story, was a wonderful continuation of the story. Picking up right after the loss of Carti's parents, it follows the young queen as she attempts to marry and lead her people against internal threats and the looming presence of Rome. It is not an easy feat, as she is besieged on all sides by friends, lovers, traitors, and allies. The character development is superb and the action keeps the story moving along at the right pace. You'll even feel like you're learning something with the rich historical description and delightful prose. I would definitely recommend this book!

[Christine H Russell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good story

I enjoy Karsak’s books very much- some more than others. Middle books are her weakness, and this is no exception. While I enjoyed the story, it was a bit too sappy and teenagery in the romance department. The whole romance with Eddin feels forced and tossed in purely because of the need for angst. It’s romantic but awkward. The ending is magnificent, however and it’s definitely worthwhile to read the whole book to get to it. I love Cormag and was hoping for more of him than is in this story. Looking forward to the sequel.

[Pryanka · Rating 4 out of 5]

All through the first book, I was rooting for Carti to fall in love with Cormag, and in the second book, I get this!?!?!?!? Eddin???? But putting that aside, as usual, I was in love with Carti and her bravery and fierceness. The way she managed to quell the rebellion and emerge victorious was a delight to read.

It was painful to see Carti make hard decisions regarding people she once thought were family but that’s what makes her the Carti I love and makes her a great queen.

Anyone who loves a strong FMC should definitely give this series a try.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5

I loved this continuation of the series.

The characters were well written, plot followed immediately after the last book, and the religious/magical aspect still remained strong within the storyline. This would have been another 5 star read, however, there was a storyline between the FMC and another person I felt didn’t really need to be there. It just felt forced, rather than explore the relationship between the FMC and MMC deeper.

Other than that, I look forward to the next book.

[Kate Christensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

No disappointment here. This was equally as well paced as the first book in the series - Eagles and Crows. There was action and intrigue from start to finish and plenty of mystique/ magic to keep me engaged. Once again it was a great story on its own but had enough threads to make you want to read the next book in the series.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nothing lies easy on the head of Queen Carti. Rulership requires sacrifice and she tries frantically to focus on what is the most important. But with danger and deception surrounding her, the strength to do what is right comes at a cost. Book 2 of the series.

[Charles W Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!

I cannot stop reading. I know I have to wait for a month, but I have loved these two books so much. Melanie Karsak, you are awesome. I read each book in one day, I just could not put it down. Thank you!!

[Daisy Girl · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4 Quick, easy read - perfect for a lazy Saturday afternoon after a looooooooong week at work. Was Cormag that soppy (not that he says much) in the first book? And how many times can Carti think she's in love? Anyway, couldn't put it down so I think it deserves an extra star for that, ha ha.

[Lburt · Rating 3 out of 5]

She’s just too confident in her ruling. Brand new queen and is young but knows how to do everything already. Doesn’t make mistakes, everyone has 100% confidence in her?

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed it

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great from start to finish

Love the books that you don’t want to put down. Just the right amount of fantasy interwoven in the story.