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Against A Darkening Sky
From the author of the acclaimed Our Daily Bread and The Empty Room comes a rich and fascinating new novel of mysterious, magic-riddled 7th-century Against A Darkening Sky transports the reader to a rich yet violent past where a young woman is torn between her deepest beliefs and her desire to belong in a changing world. Wilona, the lone survivor of a plague that has wiped out her people, makes her way across the moors to a new life in the village of Ad Gefrin, where she is apprenticed to Touilt, a revered healer and seeress. She blossoms under Touilt's tutelage and will one day take her place, but as an outsider, she is viewed with suspicion by all except Margawn, a warrior in the lord's hall. When the king proclaims a conversion to the new Christian religion, Ad Gefrin becomes a dangerous place for Wilona and Touilt. Their very lives are at risk as the villagers embrace the new faith and turn against the old ways, even as Wilona's relationship with Margawn grows. Wilona's fate becomes intertwined with that of Egan, a monk sent to Ad Gefrin as part of the Christian mission; both will see their faith and their loyalties tested. Torn between her deepest beliefs and a desire to belong in a confusing, changing world, Wilona must battle for survival, dignity and love against overwhelming odds. Seamlessly combining timeless choices and struggles and rich, nuanced historical detail that brings pagan Britain to life, Against a Darkening Sky is an exquisitely rendered work of fiction from one of Canada's most acclaimed and celebrated novelists. "Davis is without a doubt an exceptionally talented writer." - The Globe & Mail
384 pages, Paperback
First published April 14, 2015
17 people are currently reading
576 people want to read
About the author
Lauren B. Davis
11 books240 followersLauren B. Davis’s most recent work is EVEN SO, to be published by Dundurn Press in the autumn of 2021. It is the story of what happens when compassion and passion collide. Love, faith, lust, guilt, redemption, and the moment of transformation of two women, one a privileged Princeton matron, the other a Catholic nun suffering the silence of god. Can we care about those who do harm? Who deserves forgiveness, and what does redemption mean? Read EVEN SO to explore these questions.
THE GRIMOIRE OF KENSINGTON MARKET (named one of the best books of 2018 by the Globe & Mail, and a finalist for the Fred Lerner, Canadian Authors Association Best Book of the Year), is a story about a bookstore that is the repository of all the stories in the world, and that no one finds unless intended to do so. It is also about addiction, love, guilt, and flying caribous.
Davis is also the author of AGAINST A DARKENING SKY, a novel set in 7th c. Northumbria, as well as THE EMPTY ROOM, published in 2013. A searing, raw and powerful a portrayal of the chaos and pain of alcoholism. Named one of the “Best Books of the Year” by The National Post, and the Winnipeg Free Press, “Editors’ Pick” by Amazon and a “Critics’ Pick” by The Coast (Nova Scotia). Told with compassion, insight and an irresistible gallows humor, THE EMPTY ROOM takes us to the depths of addiction, only to find a revelation at its heart: the importance and grace of one person reaching out to another.
OUR DAILY BREAD (2011), was longlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize and named as one of the “Best Books of the Year” by The Globe & Mail and The Boston Globe.
She is also the author of the bestselling and critically acclaimed novels, THE RADIANT CITY (2006), a finalist for the Rogers Writers Trust Fiction Prize; and THE STUBBORN SEASON (2002), a named as one of the Top 15 Bestselling First Novels by Amazon.ca and Books in Canada. She has published two short story collections, AN UNREHEARSED DESIRE (2008) and RAT MEDICINE & OTHER UNLIKELY CURATIVES (2000). Her short fiction has been shortlisted for the CBC Literary Awards, the ReLit Award and she is the recipient of two Mid-Career Writer Sustaining grants from the Canadian Council for the Arts. A well-respected creative writing teacher who has taught in Geneva, Paris and Ireland, as well as in the USA and Canada, she is also a past Mentor with the Humber College Creative Writing by Correspondence Program, and past Writer-in-Residence at Trinity Church, Princeton. She now leads monthly SHARPENING THE QUILL writing workshops in Princeton, New Jersey.
THE GRIMOIRE OF KENSINGTON MARKET (named one of the best books of 2018 by the Globe & Mail, and a finalist for the Fred Lerner, Canadian Authors Association Best Book of the Year), is a story about a bookstore that is the repository of all the stories in the world, and that no one finds unless intended to do so. It is also about addiction, love, guilt, and flying caribous.
Davis is also the author of AGAINST A DARKENING SKY, a novel set in 7th c. Northumbria, as well as THE EMPTY ROOM, published in 2013. A searing, raw and powerful a portrayal of the chaos and pain of alcoholism. Named one of the “Best Books of the Year” by The National Post, and the Winnipeg Free Press, “Editors’ Pick” by Amazon and a “Critics’ Pick” by The Coast (Nova Scotia). Told with compassion, insight and an irresistible gallows humor, THE EMPTY ROOM takes us to the depths of addiction, only to find a revelation at its heart: the importance and grace of one person reaching out to another.
OUR DAILY BREAD (2011), was longlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize and named as one of the “Best Books of the Year” by The Globe & Mail and The Boston Globe.
She is also the author of the bestselling and critically acclaimed novels, THE RADIANT CITY (2006), a finalist for the Rogers Writers Trust Fiction Prize; and THE STUBBORN SEASON (2002), a named as one of the Top 15 Bestselling First Novels by Amazon.ca and Books in Canada. She has published two short story collections, AN UNREHEARSED DESIRE (2008) and RAT MEDICINE & OTHER UNLIKELY CURATIVES (2000). Her short fiction has been shortlisted for the CBC Literary Awards, the ReLit Award and she is the recipient of two Mid-Career Writer Sustaining grants from the Canadian Council for the Arts. A well-respected creative writing teacher who has taught in Geneva, Paris and Ireland, as well as in the USA and Canada, she is also a past Mentor with the Humber College Creative Writing by Correspondence Program, and past Writer-in-Residence at Trinity Church, Princeton. She now leads monthly SHARPENING THE QUILL writing workshops in Princeton, New Jersey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
April 21, 2015
Egan is a devout young Christian monk - perhaps a bit too devout. Wilona is apprentice to the seithkona (a priestess/medicine woman) of her village, and utterly committed to her people's indigenous religion.
In this vision of 7th-century Northumbria, events will lead these two lives to intersect. Through this collision, Davis explores questions of belief & humanity.
Historical fiction purists will likely be annoyed by some of the ahistoricity of the book. Davis is not attempting to create a wholly accurate depiction of 7th century life on the British Isles. Rather, she uses our current popular concepts of what the time of religious transition was like to explore her fictional characters' lives and emotions.
Although it's not explicitly 'fantastic' (I'd say, it's about as 'fantastic' as some of Guy Gavriel Kay's books), I'd recommend this for fans of thoughtful, character-driven fantasy. It's somewhere between Kay and 'The Mists of Avalon.' Pagans will likely enjoy the story as well, with its vivid, sympathetic depictions of pre-Christian religion (although Christianity is portrayed in a way which could be interpreted as a compatible spirituality.) As a non-religious person, I still enjoyed the exploration of why & how people cling to things, and how two seemingly mortal opponents could actually have more in common with each other than not.
This is not a fast-paced, action-oriented book, although it's not 'gentle' either. Dire events are treated with realism and sensitivity. The writing is lovely.
Many thanks to HarperCollins and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy for this very worthwhile book. As always, my opinions are solely my own.
In this vision of 7th-century Northumbria, events will lead these two lives to intersect. Through this collision, Davis explores questions of belief & humanity.
Historical fiction purists will likely be annoyed by some of the ahistoricity of the book. Davis is not attempting to create a wholly accurate depiction of 7th century life on the British Isles. Rather, she uses our current popular concepts of what the time of religious transition was like to explore her fictional characters' lives and emotions.
Although it's not explicitly 'fantastic' (I'd say, it's about as 'fantastic' as some of Guy Gavriel Kay's books), I'd recommend this for fans of thoughtful, character-driven fantasy. It's somewhere between Kay and 'The Mists of Avalon.' Pagans will likely enjoy the story as well, with its vivid, sympathetic depictions of pre-Christian religion (although Christianity is portrayed in a way which could be interpreted as a compatible spirituality.) As a non-religious person, I still enjoyed the exploration of why & how people cling to things, and how two seemingly mortal opponents could actually have more in common with each other than not.
This is not a fast-paced, action-oriented book, although it's not 'gentle' either. Dire events are treated with realism and sensitivity. The writing is lovely.
Many thanks to HarperCollins and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy for this very worthwhile book. As always, my opinions are solely my own.
May 22, 2025
Historical fantasy set against the background of 7th century Northumbria, with the coming of Christianity, replacing the old pagan religion. Egan, a devout monk, maybe even TOO devout, comes to that area, ostensibly as a translator, and his path and that of Wilona, a young priestess-prophetess-healer entwine. He's an example of a Christian really living Christ's message and she is the last in the village of Ad Gefrin, clinging to her beliefs in spite of hostile opposition from her lord, other villagers, and most of the Christian clergy.
As the author states, "beyond the research, this is a work of imagination." She feels this is what life may have been like at that time. The writing was gorgeous, especially almost poetic descriptions of nature, and deep character studies. I felt immersed in that era.
Most highly recommended.
As the author states, "beyond the research, this is a work of imagination." She feels this is what life may have been like at that time. The writing was gorgeous, especially almost poetic descriptions of nature, and deep character studies. I felt immersed in that era.
Most highly recommended.
April 17, 2019
For me, this was about a 3.5 star reading experience, but I’ve rounded up to 4 stars because it has so many things that I really enjoy. First, its setting—at the point where country religions are being replaced by Christianity in Britain. Second, I loved that Wilona was a healer, as I enjoy that kind of character. And thirdly, Lauren B. Davis is an excellent writer.
Back in 2013, I read Nicola Griffith’s fabulous book Hild, set in the same time frame. It was a mention that Hild appears in Davis’ book, that encouraged me to pick it up. Unfortunately, Hild makes only one cameo in this book as a child and we don’t see her again.
The ending is inevitable, but I still found it disappointing. I guess I am a pagan at heart and I’m always disappointed when Christianity triumphs. If you like this book, I would definitely recommend Hild, as well as Marion Zimmer Bradley’s The Mists of Avalon and Mary Stewart’s Arthurian Saga, beginning with The Crystal Cave.
Back in 2013, I read Nicola Griffith’s fabulous book Hild, set in the same time frame. It was a mention that Hild appears in Davis’ book, that encouraged me to pick it up. Unfortunately, Hild makes only one cameo in this book as a child and we don’t see her again.
The ending is inevitable, but I still found it disappointing. I guess I am a pagan at heart and I’m always disappointed when Christianity triumphs. If you like this book, I would definitely recommend Hild, as well as Marion Zimmer Bradley’s The Mists of Avalon and Mary Stewart’s Arthurian Saga, beginning with The Crystal Cave.
December 15, 2015
Okay, so I saw this book at a thrift store, read Lauren B. Davis, and my heart stuttered. The 'Stubborn Season' had a big impact on me since reading it over a decade ago, and I have mad respect for her ability in writing characters.
I quite liked this book. I first thought it was a fantasy novel, simply because she did such a good job conveying mysticism and spiritual creatures of the 'pagan' faith. I actually thought it wonderfully insane for such a respected author of Canadian fiction to be tackling this genre. So for all the things I like in a good fantasy novel, she hit all the buttons. Strong female character, female-centric themes, well-rounded characters, interesting interpretations of magic, a subtle and satisfying but not overwhelming romance with a certain fella reminiscent of David in a Stubborn Season (strong but not macho, steadfast, quiet-type). I thought it was strange that she combined her usual strong character examinations with such a trope-ic fantasy narrative, so it was a bit jarring not to see the usual plot-line curves you systematically find in fantasy books.
When I realized it wasn't a fantasy but a pseudo-historical re-telling, the story just felt, sadder... There was this air of disappointment, especially concerning somebody's last minute (spoiler). I think Davies has done what not too many good authors have done, she wrote about a period in which the day to day norms and rituals are completely shrouded in darkness, that are so distant to us that they may very well be fantasy, and she wrote it as seriously and as sensitively as a commonly understood period piece today. (e.g. People surviving the Great Depression). Even Crichton wrote 'Eaters of the Dead' (involving pre-Christian vikings during a time when humans may have co-existed with Neanderthals) in a narrative style from the perspective of a Muslim ambassador utilizing written ethnography. We as a reading culture are so reliant on validating written history and shrouding unknown or guessed history with more irrelevance. It was jarring, but kudos to Davies.
While I'm satisfied with the ending, if I do re-read this book, it will only be for the lovey-dovey scenes (I know! I'm such an auntie).
I quite liked this book. I first thought it was a fantasy novel, simply because she did such a good job conveying mysticism and spiritual creatures of the 'pagan' faith. I actually thought it wonderfully insane for such a respected author of Canadian fiction to be tackling this genre. So for all the things I like in a good fantasy novel, she hit all the buttons. Strong female character, female-centric themes, well-rounded characters, interesting interpretations of magic, a subtle and satisfying but not overwhelming romance with a certain fella reminiscent of David in a Stubborn Season (strong but not macho, steadfast, quiet-type). I thought it was strange that she combined her usual strong character examinations with such a trope-ic fantasy narrative, so it was a bit jarring not to see the usual plot-line curves you systematically find in fantasy books.
When I realized it wasn't a fantasy but a pseudo-historical re-telling, the story just felt, sadder... There was this air of disappointment, especially concerning somebody's last minute (spoiler). I think Davies has done what not too many good authors have done, she wrote about a period in which the day to day norms and rituals are completely shrouded in darkness, that are so distant to us that they may very well be fantasy, and she wrote it as seriously and as sensitively as a commonly understood period piece today. (e.g. People surviving the Great Depression). Even Crichton wrote 'Eaters of the Dead' (involving pre-Christian vikings during a time when humans may have co-existed with Neanderthals) in a narrative style from the perspective of a Muslim ambassador utilizing written ethnography. We as a reading culture are so reliant on validating written history and shrouding unknown or guessed history with more irrelevance. It was jarring, but kudos to Davies.
While I'm satisfied with the ending, if I do re-read this book, it will only be for the lovey-dovey scenes (I know! I'm such an auntie).
June 8, 2015
The dramatic sweep of AGAINST A DARKENING SKY takes your breath away in its story of the coming of Christianity (the White Christ) to the pagan world of seventh-century Northumbria. The novel is narrated in alternating chapters by the pagan mystic/wise woman/midwife Wilona (and her intense and gorgeous communication with nature, animals and the old gods that seem to ride in the air she breathes), and the idealistic, utterly gentle Christian monk Egan (who truly lives by love and who will encounter Christians who live by brutality).
The novel sweeps you into another time. It is so real you feel you are truly there with every cry of an owl or a woman in childbirth or breaking of a twig under the sandal of an approaching stranger. The story encompasses dozens of characters whom you come to care about deeply. The writer totally enters the minds of people who lived fourteen hundred years ago. The thoughts of one character about the meaning of life and the hope of faith are so simple and deep and makes you realize that we are still seeking answers to questions first raised a long time ago in a different world where the way we live now would not even be a vague dream.
Truly, the book is a world apart and a very rich and fascinating one.
The novel sweeps you into another time. It is so real you feel you are truly there with every cry of an owl or a woman in childbirth or breaking of a twig under the sandal of an approaching stranger. The story encompasses dozens of characters whom you come to care about deeply. The writer totally enters the minds of people who lived fourteen hundred years ago. The thoughts of one character about the meaning of life and the hope of faith are so simple and deep and makes you realize that we are still seeking answers to questions first raised a long time ago in a different world where the way we live now would not even be a vague dream.
Truly, the book is a world apart and a very rich and fascinating one.
April 27, 2015
I enjoyed it for the fanciful mind of the writer. The time period was interesting, and having lived in England I love reading about it's past. I particularly enjoyed the different beliefs, with Christianity on the rise it made me think of all the old religions and means of worship- how one belief can obliterate others. I have always enjoyed stories with a shaman, in this one a medicine woman- be it modern day natural healers with a mystical touch , characters with their feet firmly grounded in the old ways or paganism of the past, something about it tickles my fancy. Egan is a devout monk, and Wilona is seeped into healing- her beliefs at odds with the changing times. This is an exploration in differences, how we perceive each other when our beliefs conflict. Beautiful writing, and it is a fictional account of the past. It's strange that while the times were so foreign to our 'modern culture' religion is still a struggle. I liked it.
June 26, 2016
I loved the strength of the writing in this book, and the characters experiencing diverse and satisfying story and development in primitive Northumbria and the inevitable clash between traditional forms of god and goddess worship and healing through the seithkona Wilona and the advent of Christianity represented by Brother Egan. This story is a gripping adventure propelled by the characters without obvious plot points (at least as I recognize them). It is also a wonderfully, wonderfully written study personal principles and beliefs, where the spiritual and community conflict weaves a powerful tale. It captured my attention from the first chapter because it is so fully satisfying in all aspects: primitive history, emotion, characters, spirituality, functional belief systems and fundamental conflict when those belief systems are challenged. [author:Lauren B. Davis|843167 's writing ability is astounding. This book was vivid, enchanting and captivating. I highly recommend it!
March 3, 2015
Only just scraped to three stars, because the writing kept me going. And the conflict of cultures was an interesting device which allowed for a few unexpected twists.
But, it isn't until the acknowledgements that the author mentions the book wasn't a search for historical accuracy but, instead, her fancies and perception of the period. Fine. Would have been nice to know that up front before the history rage kicked in.
And beyond the history rage, it's the generally stock characters. Christianity is moving into Britain. So we have venal, hypocritical Christians. Except for the humble Irish outsider who understands animals and is disliked by his brethren. We have the cold, yet honourable chieftan. We have the local pagans, in touch with the old ways. Some of these are partially developed but still not in the round. While the rest are there to fill the story.
But, it isn't until the acknowledgements that the author mentions the book wasn't a search for historical accuracy but, instead, her fancies and perception of the period. Fine. Would have been nice to know that up front before the history rage kicked in.
And beyond the history rage, it's the generally stock characters. Christianity is moving into Britain. So we have venal, hypocritical Christians. Except for the humble Irish outsider who understands animals and is disliked by his brethren. We have the cold, yet honourable chieftan. We have the local pagans, in touch with the old ways. Some of these are partially developed but still not in the round. While the rest are there to fill the story.
September 12, 2016
I discovered Lauren B. Davis at the Harbourfront reading festival and have read everything by her since. An extraordinary writer who is able to inhabit the voices and experiences of peoples from incredibly diverse backgrounds, not only of place and circumstance - but also of time. This book looks at the introduction of Christianity into 7th century England by focusing on a young Christian priest and a female pagan "spell woman." It is truly riveting, nuanced and compelling. Aside from introducing us to the politics of religion in this era (and any other by extension), the characters feel completely authentic and sympathetic; the story is engrossing and, while exploring important themes, this never loses sight of the entertainment value of the novel. She is a writer of first rank.
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May 26, 2015
Wilona is a survivor. She survived the loss of her whole village while a child and made a place as a healer, midwife and devotee of the old gods in Northumbria during the reign of King Edwin. Then enters Egan, an otherworldly monk who has a hard time coping with the world. the two manage to keep each other sane when their world falls apart with the defeat of King Edwin at the hands of Cadwallon and Penda. After listening to Jamie Jeffers on the British History Podcast for the past several years, I knew what was coming, but was pleased and surprised at the detail that Lauren Davis worked into the story to provide the details that make a tale live. Will keep my eyes peeled for more by her!
December 9, 2019
I’m a huge fan of Wicca, Paganism, Christo-Paganism, Norse mythology, older belief systems and all earth mysteries. Having read Mists of Avalon, Way of Wyrd, and watched Vikings... this book is written in that style and is an outstanding story of a young pagan woman, her instructor and a Christian Monk. All living parallel lives.
It’s hard to take sides in this book because the monk is a good man under a very difficult time in seventh century Britain where Christianity is new and comes in the form of tyranny on so many levels. It’s too bad that Christianity and Paganism wouldn’t work together. But there is light at the end of the tunnel in this story. Ms Davis never lets the reader down. I believe she is now my favourite author. I cannot recommend this book enough.
It’s hard to take sides in this book because the monk is a good man under a very difficult time in seventh century Britain where Christianity is new and comes in the form of tyranny on so many levels. It’s too bad that Christianity and Paganism wouldn’t work together. But there is light at the end of the tunnel in this story. Ms Davis never lets the reader down. I believe she is now my favourite author. I cannot recommend this book enough.
June 22, 2015
I adored this book, and when I was trying to think of what I would say in a review, one word came to mind and that is "rich". This story is not fast moving or an edge of your seat adventure, but it totally captivated me because it is so rich in every aspect: history, emotion, characters, spirituality, and beliefs in general. Lauren B. Davis has the craft of writing absolutely perfected, and I was transported back to the 7th century so completely that I sometimes had to put the book down and remember where I actually was. I know it will take me a while to get over this book because I miss the characters so much already. I definitely need to read more of Davis' work!
July 30, 2015
I picked up this book as an airplane read, not really knowing what to expect. I was so amazingly surprised at this gem. Set in 590-620+ A.D in England, it wonderfully meshes the lives of Druidic/Viking custom with the onset of early Christianity. Lauren Davis makes it clear in her acknowledgements that she may have made some historical mistakes, but really, I don't care. It was vivid, enchanting and captivating. Also, near the end of the novel, a woman named 'Hild' was mentioned. It intrigued me, especially when I eyed a book of the same name. Can't wait to get into this era- it's caught my interest fast and hard.
A great read for fans of magic and historical fiction.
A great read for fans of magic and historical fiction.
November 2, 2015
Visitors to Middle-earth and Westeros should book a trip to medieval Ad Gefrin, home of the strong-willed Wilona, an apprentice seeress caught in a rising tide of Christianity. The novel's battle-axes and sorcery will be familiar to fans of the genre, but Davis surprises by focusing on the underserved topic of spirituality in the fantasy realm. Written with tactile prose and never esoteric, Against a Darkening Sky is a compelling, satisfying read.
May 20, 2016
Wilona, the only survivor of a plague that destroyed her family, travels to the village of Ad Gefrin where she becomes the apprentice to Touilt, a seithkona or seer/healer. Many people come to Touilt for her medicine treatments and Wilona learns quickly. This is King Edwin’s medieval kingdom in a time of great transition with the coming of Christianity. It is believed that when all convert, the kingdom will prosper as natural progression from belief in the triune God.
Before that occurs, however, we have an account of Wilona’s training which is lovely reading. In between learning about how nature provides healing properties, we realize how dark, cruel and primitive are the conditions under which these people live. Touilt sees many visions which the reader may find frightening but which Touilt interprets as life-giving, protective and wise. Wilona herself has visions of an owl which is to be her guide, totem or daemon.
We next meet Egan, a devout monk whose Christianity is bounded by his own humility or scrupulosity. His superiors take his bumbling errors in stride at first but then decide his humility reeks of excessive pride. At the same time they recognize his timid kindness and speech as a great tool to be used in servicing the King’s desire that all come to Christ.
Wilona and Egan develop an uneasy friendship at first. When the town villagers come to destroy Touilt’s spirit drawings and figures and physically beat her, Wilona trusts no one. She believes it is only time that awaits her own torture to force her to convert. Egan insists otherwise.
The remainder of the novel dwells on changing circumstances that change the people’s certitude about Christianity. The results of these challenges are riveting as the ending reveals a new way of dealing with how spiritual beliefs fit into the vicissitudes of daily medieval life.
Very nicely crafted – recommended fantasy historical fiction that challenges adamant religiosity!
Before that occurs, however, we have an account of Wilona’s training which is lovely reading. In between learning about how nature provides healing properties, we realize how dark, cruel and primitive are the conditions under which these people live. Touilt sees many visions which the reader may find frightening but which Touilt interprets as life-giving, protective and wise. Wilona herself has visions of an owl which is to be her guide, totem or daemon.
We next meet Egan, a devout monk whose Christianity is bounded by his own humility or scrupulosity. His superiors take his bumbling errors in stride at first but then decide his humility reeks of excessive pride. At the same time they recognize his timid kindness and speech as a great tool to be used in servicing the King’s desire that all come to Christ.
Wilona and Egan develop an uneasy friendship at first. When the town villagers come to destroy Touilt’s spirit drawings and figures and physically beat her, Wilona trusts no one. She believes it is only time that awaits her own torture to force her to convert. Egan insists otherwise.
The remainder of the novel dwells on changing circumstances that change the people’s certitude about Christianity. The results of these challenges are riveting as the ending reveals a new way of dealing with how spiritual beliefs fit into the vicissitudes of daily medieval life.
Very nicely crafted – recommended fantasy historical fiction that challenges adamant religiosity!
November 5, 2017
Against A Darkening Sky is a riveting story set in 7th century Britain, when women were the midwives of sacred ritual and higher levels of consciousness and Christianity was intent on crushing earth-based spirituality and beliefs in the old gods and goddesses.
Davis focuses on the intersecting stories of two characters: Wilona, the fiercely compelling seithkona, intent on preserving the ancient religion that celebrates the divine feminine and Egan, a Christian monk conflicted in his regard for Wilona’s power to heal and the burning determination of his church to demonize her.
The author weaves her own spells on the reader. The atmosphere of 7th century Northumbria is thick with cries of the owl in a starless night, the smell of blood and smoke, and visions of impending tragedy. This is a tale of how Christianity drove divine female wisdom underground, yet Davis also gives us a beautiful love story. Highly recommended.
Davis focuses on the intersecting stories of two characters: Wilona, the fiercely compelling seithkona, intent on preserving the ancient religion that celebrates the divine feminine and Egan, a Christian monk conflicted in his regard for Wilona’s power to heal and the burning determination of his church to demonize her.
The author weaves her own spells on the reader. The atmosphere of 7th century Northumbria is thick with cries of the owl in a starless night, the smell of blood and smoke, and visions of impending tragedy. This is a tale of how Christianity drove divine female wisdom underground, yet Davis also gives us a beautiful love story. Highly recommended.
September 20, 2015
This was a stretch for me but I enjoyed it nonetheless. A story set in primitive Northumbria where people live in caves and trust in a seithkona with her runes and herbal potions before the monk of the white Christ came preaching a message of faith and hope of a different kind.
The breadth of this author is impressive as I have read two other novels that she has written and they are extremely different from each other. . This story tackles matters regarding the human condition, relationships, conflicts, convictions and spirituality. The characters Wilona and Egan draw the reader in and we want nothing but the best outcome for them in their tragic lives. This is a serious story with very few light moments. But matters of life and death are heavy indeed.
The breadth of this author is impressive as I have read two other novels that she has written and they are extremely different from each other. . This story tackles matters regarding the human condition, relationships, conflicts, convictions and spirituality. The characters Wilona and Egan draw the reader in and we want nothing but the best outcome for them in their tragic lives. This is a serious story with very few light moments. But matters of life and death are heavy indeed.
May 30, 2015
I thoroughly recommend this book. I imagine booksellers find it hard to categorise as it is historical fiction/thriller/love story/political/religion - so this book will surprise you - in a good way. It is so much more than an "easy read" and yet it is a real page turner. Davis take the reader into 7th Century Britain with artful skill. If I had the money I would buy the film rights.
April 28, 2015
This was a great read. It's been a while since I've been drawn into a story like this!
November 11, 2015
Excellent read. Engrossing and very deft, bringing readers realistically into a very distant time of change and turmoil.
June 10, 2015
I’d been looking forward to this book ever since I knew it was coming (Lauren is my writing teacher), because it’s such a departure from her novels with contemporary settings. Davis is a distinguished Canadian author, and I wanted to see how she’d conjure and portray events of 1300 years ago. Now I know. Masterfully.
626 A.D. is a restless time in the medieval Anglian kingdom of Northumbria (now northern England and southeast Scotland). The traditional polytheistic world of augury and healers is about to be displaced by the sweep of Christianity, and the king is constantly threatened by a more powerful rival from the Midlands. These large currents also wash over the small village of Ad Gelfin, where the novel is set.
In the middle of this maelstrom are the traditional spell women, the seithkona—Touilt and her apprentice Wilona—powerful, vulnerable. They use medicinal herbs and tinctures, pray to the pagan gods, and are the closest to healers the community has. The beliefs they espouse are part and parcel of every aspect of daily life and involve the animals and spirits inherent to their place. When Christianity comes to their small village in great pomp, with it straggles a young monk, Egan. His faith is strong, but in many ways he’s a misfit, most particularly because he sees good in the seithkona, while others simply want to destroy them. Whether the two young people, Egan and Wilona, can find their life paths in increasingly harsh circumstances is the plot of the book, whereas its many meanings—about the persistence of faith, about the quest for dignity and belonging—are universal.
Davis’s enormous accomplishment is in creating a world for Wilona, Touilt, Egan, and a compelling array of secondary characters that is consistent, believable, and true. She’s described the several shelves of reading she did in order to learn enough about that period to write about it authentically, and the care of her research had paid off for her readers. Wilona is especially compelling as a translator and defender of the pagan belief system, grounded in nature and the world around them.. Confronting Christianity, which depends on extrinsic religious authority, changes the game utterly. It’s top-down versus bottom-up wisdom.
Pulitzer-Prize winning author Robert Olen Butler says Davis “brilliantly achieves the ideal for a dark, historical fantasy: period and milieu seem utterly inextricable from character and theme.” Those are its remarkable literary qualities; but from the reader’s perspective, it’s also a fascinating immersive adventure!
626 A.D. is a restless time in the medieval Anglian kingdom of Northumbria (now northern England and southeast Scotland). The traditional polytheistic world of augury and healers is about to be displaced by the sweep of Christianity, and the king is constantly threatened by a more powerful rival from the Midlands. These large currents also wash over the small village of Ad Gelfin, where the novel is set.
In the middle of this maelstrom are the traditional spell women, the seithkona—Touilt and her apprentice Wilona—powerful, vulnerable. They use medicinal herbs and tinctures, pray to the pagan gods, and are the closest to healers the community has. The beliefs they espouse are part and parcel of every aspect of daily life and involve the animals and spirits inherent to their place. When Christianity comes to their small village in great pomp, with it straggles a young monk, Egan. His faith is strong, but in many ways he’s a misfit, most particularly because he sees good in the seithkona, while others simply want to destroy them. Whether the two young people, Egan and Wilona, can find their life paths in increasingly harsh circumstances is the plot of the book, whereas its many meanings—about the persistence of faith, about the quest for dignity and belonging—are universal.
Davis’s enormous accomplishment is in creating a world for Wilona, Touilt, Egan, and a compelling array of secondary characters that is consistent, believable, and true. She’s described the several shelves of reading she did in order to learn enough about that period to write about it authentically, and the care of her research had paid off for her readers. Wilona is especially compelling as a translator and defender of the pagan belief system, grounded in nature and the world around them.. Confronting Christianity, which depends on extrinsic religious authority, changes the game utterly. It’s top-down versus bottom-up wisdom.
Pulitzer-Prize winning author Robert Olen Butler says Davis “brilliantly achieves the ideal for a dark, historical fantasy: period and milieu seem utterly inextricable from character and theme.” Those are its remarkable literary qualities; but from the reader’s perspective, it’s also a fascinating immersive adventure!
December 24, 2015
AGAINST A DARKENING SKY
Lauren B. Davis
Set in seventh-century Northumbria "Against A Darkening Sky" is historical fantasy and, admittedly, not my usual go-to as a novel choice, but my husband read it, raved and I began the journey.
What I hope for in any work of fiction is a trip to somewhere I have no realistic possibility of visiting. Lauren B. Davis took me on an adventure and I ate it up. Because Davis is a supremely confident novelist I was transported into a landscape filled with sensuality on all levels. She is writing of heaven and earth in spiritual conflict and along the way I could smell, taste, hear and see a vivid world populated by equally fascinating characters.
It's gratifying to have a female protagonist in Wilona, a young woman who masters the art of survival both of the heart and body. She's a determined fighter able to love a man but not waiting around to be rescued by one. Mentored by Touilt, a female sage, Wilona is a worshiper of gods and believes completely and wholeheartedly in her tutor's lessons. Every potion and concoction is intensely detailed and it all makes perfect working sense until their world is turned upside down by Christianity and the concept of one God. This news is delivered in the person of a young monk, Egan and is the central wrestle of the novel. Both sides are given fair range to present a case. If you're in the market for an otherworldly thrill "Against a Darkening Sky" would be an apt choice. You won't want to put it down and will miss it once you've turned the last page.
Lauren B. Davis
Set in seventh-century Northumbria "Against A Darkening Sky" is historical fantasy and, admittedly, not my usual go-to as a novel choice, but my husband read it, raved and I began the journey.
What I hope for in any work of fiction is a trip to somewhere I have no realistic possibility of visiting. Lauren B. Davis took me on an adventure and I ate it up. Because Davis is a supremely confident novelist I was transported into a landscape filled with sensuality on all levels. She is writing of heaven and earth in spiritual conflict and along the way I could smell, taste, hear and see a vivid world populated by equally fascinating characters.
It's gratifying to have a female protagonist in Wilona, a young woman who masters the art of survival both of the heart and body. She's a determined fighter able to love a man but not waiting around to be rescued by one. Mentored by Touilt, a female sage, Wilona is a worshiper of gods and believes completely and wholeheartedly in her tutor's lessons. Every potion and concoction is intensely detailed and it all makes perfect working sense until their world is turned upside down by Christianity and the concept of one God. This news is delivered in the person of a young monk, Egan and is the central wrestle of the novel. Both sides are given fair range to present a case. If you're in the market for an otherworldly thrill "Against a Darkening Sky" would be an apt choice. You won't want to put it down and will miss it once you've turned the last page.
September 8, 2015
If you are a fan of historical fantasy then this is a novel you would absolutely enjoy. I enjoyed this story very much and probably would fairly rate it almost 4 stars. The writing is just lovely and thick with imagery. The writer wasn't shooting for historical accuracy, more an idea about how things MAY have been and some of the realities of that time period. I loved where she takes you in the story and the slow unveiling of her characters flaws and strengths that deepen the story and theme of the book. It's not a gripping story, but it's mesmerizing and enchanting. I found the religion aspect of the story absolutely fascinating! I found myself wanting to learn more of the ancient religions that existed and were so ingrained in the culture before Christianity spread. It's not a book I would probably read again, but I would read this author again.
July 7, 2015
I loved this historical fiction novel set in the 7th c. when Christianity was spread to Northumbria (England) by King Edwin (his wife and priest rather). It reminded me a little of "The Mists of Avalon" in that you experience the shift from the PoV of a pagan woman who is accustomed to a world where goddesses and womanhood are valued.
I have loved everything I have read by Lauren B Davis. She is endlessly creative, with new plots, pacing, time periods and characters with every book. The last book by her I read was completely different, about one day in the life of a contemporary woman struggling with alcoholism.
In "Against a Darkening Sky," I loved how rich and varied the plot was and how close I felt to the main characters, Egan and Wilona. Highly recommended!
I have loved everything I have read by Lauren B Davis. She is endlessly creative, with new plots, pacing, time periods and characters with every book. The last book by her I read was completely different, about one day in the life of a contemporary woman struggling with alcoholism.
In "Against a Darkening Sky," I loved how rich and varied the plot was and how close I felt to the main characters, Egan and Wilona. Highly recommended!
January 30, 2015
So grateful for this generous endorsement from Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Robert Olen Butler:
“Lauren B. Davis’s Against a Darkening Sky brilliantly achieves the ideal for a historical novel: period and milieu seem utterly inextricable from character and theme, and together they illuminate timeless and universal truths of the human condition. Seventh-century England is fascinating. Wilona is achingly real. Her quest for an identity and a place in the world are richly resonant. Davis is a remarkable writer.”
—Robert Olen Butler, Pulitzer Prize–winning author of A Good Scent from a Strange Mountain
“Lauren B. Davis’s Against a Darkening Sky brilliantly achieves the ideal for a historical novel: period and milieu seem utterly inextricable from character and theme, and together they illuminate timeless and universal truths of the human condition. Seventh-century England is fascinating. Wilona is achingly real. Her quest for an identity and a place in the world are richly resonant. Davis is a remarkable writer.”
—Robert Olen Butler, Pulitzer Prize–winning author of A Good Scent from a Strange Mountain
October 28, 2015
If the option was there this would be a 3 & half stars. Beautifully written in a century that is sure to stir the imagination with faith & mysticism. The belief that their faith in the gods would answer every prayer is something you would expect from that period of time in that limited mind space through experience not yet had in the world. The troubling & interesting thing about that is how many people today still fall in that mind set & choose to stay there with all the experience this world has gone through & choices in front of us. I guess there will always be people who fall in this category, but I choose to leave them in the past where they belong.
December 24, 2015
An intriguing historical tale with elements of fantasy, where old faiths collide with the new and a war nearly destroys everything.
As always, whenever Lauren writes anything, I feel like I should be taking notes. While I'm completely unfamiliar with Northumbria, it was very easy for even someone like me to visualize everything - from Wilona's face and the shade of her hair to the various place and time-specific details.
A wonderful, wonderful book.
As always, whenever Lauren writes anything, I feel like I should be taking notes. While I'm completely unfamiliar with Northumbria, it was very easy for even someone like me to visualize everything - from Wilona's face and the shade of her hair to the various place and time-specific details.
A wonderful, wonderful book.
October 22, 2018
I found the writing exquisite. Lauren is a master story teller. I found the comparison of religious beliefs and practices in a time of transition nearly 1500 years ago fascinatingly relevant in today's cultural clashes. The use of two main characters to give the reader insights and perspectives works very well. I found the resolution strangely satisfying.
This was my first read of a Lauren B. Davis book but it will not be my last. I have already purchased The Empty Room and our Daily bread.
This was my first read of a Lauren B. Davis book but it will not be my last. I have already purchased The Empty Room and our Daily bread.
March 8, 2015
Loved the authors' vision of the 7th century. The main characters Wilona, Touilt and Egan were fully formed and I was captivated by the struggle between personal faith and influences of power. It made me think of Kazuo Isiguro's newest novel, The Buried Giant, which I also loved and just finished earlier this week.
May 3, 2015
A great read that kept my interest throughout. In reading more about the backstory on Lauren B. Davis' website, I wasn't suprised to learn about the extensive research conducted by the author, including a visit to key sites in the UK. This really showed by all the interesting deatils associated with life in 7th century England.
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