Dark Ages: An Epic Fantasy Novel of Ancient Magic and the Fight for Survival

by John Pritchard

INTO THE DARK

Fran has come back to face her the fears she buried four long years ago. If she confronts the creatures from her nightmares, she’ll know that they were only in her mind. Her best friend and the man she loves are waiting, and spring in sunny Oxford seems to light the way ahead. But on Salisbury Plain she meets a living shadow and finds she is destined for a darker road.

Martin is still challenging his the phantoms that he’s glimpsed and can’t forget. Before his eyes they swarmed out of a medieval star chart and vanished in the night without a trace. He has unleashed the a band of ruthless warriors, sworn to defend their ancient kingdom in its darkest hour. The world has moved on, and yet the land still needs them. Beyond the peaceful English fields, old enemies are gathering again.

From city streets to wild woods, among outcasts and resisters, Fran and Martin must join the Ravensbreed in their final, desperate war – a long and bloody struggle which, if lost, will plunge their country and everyone they love into a brutal New Dark Age.

Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction Fantasy

705 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 5, 1998

About the author

Born in 1964 in Wales. His NHS career began with a summer job as a Casualty receptionist in his local hospital, after which eye-opening introduction he worked in administration and patient services. He is currently working in a medical unit in one of the hospitals in the south of England.

Note: There is more than one author with this name in the Goodreads database.

Reviews

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was very different to alot of the fantasy i had been reading at the time and its worth reading simply for that aspect. Its well written and as harsh about the good guys as the bad and was a book that really gripped me from start to finish.

Id definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to try something a little different fantasy-wise :)

[Pauline Meinung · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. I’ve read it so many times that it is literally falling apart. I’m a history nut for a start off but its setting in a summery south of England adds to its charm. Give me Glastonbury and it’s a no-brainer treat for all seasons. And to think I’ve never remembered the name of the author or searched for other offerings until today! I can only say one thing against it. And maybe it’s not an issue but may contain a reason for my lack of interest in finding another book of Pritchard’s. I don’t like the main character. In fact I find her quite ridiculously vapid. I know that’s how she’s supposed to be but I’m not sure he gets women right. Anyone else know what I mean? Still love the book though!

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hard going in places but the story is attention grabbing. I read it some time ago but it has creepy surroundings, odd happenings and unexpected events.