Storms and Shadows

Storms and Shadows is a historical novel set in medieval England, following the de Braose family as they struggle to emerge as one of the most wealthy and influential families. Responsible for the Abergavenny massacre of 1175, William de Braose, 4th Lord of Bramber and Lord of Abergavenny, rises to power during Prince John's accession to the throne and his turbulent reign. Ailith, taken into service at Bramber castle in 1182, is drawn to her new mistress, Matilda de Braose, who has the ability to see the future and sometimes the past by scrying. They build a special bond, and Ailith realizes there is a connection between her new mistress and her recurring dreams.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 394 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2019
Publisher: Cranthorpe Millner Publishers

In a turbulent period marked by King Henry II's conflict with his sons, Storms and Shadows delves into the fortunes of the de Braose family as they strive to establish themselves as one of the wealthiest and influential families in medieval England. William de Braose, the 4th Lord of Bramber and Lord of Abergavenny, assumes a prominent position during Prince John's ascent to the throne and his turbulent reign as king. The story spans from Bramber Castle in Sussex to the rugged Welsh Marches and even to the battlefields of France. The eventual clash between these two men triggers a series of events that culminate in William losing his wealth and titles, and his family being declared outlaws.

In 1182, Ailith, a young woman, finds herself serving at Bramber Castle in Sussex. She is irresistibly drawn to her new mistress, Matilda de Braose, who possesses a peculiar ability to glimpse the future and occasionally the past through scrying. However, Ailith's realization that her new mistress is connected to the recurring dreams she had as a child adds an intriguing twist to their relationship. As Ailith delves deeper into this connection, she and Matilda forge a special bond, deepening their understanding of each other and the secrets that lie within their family.

The de Braose family's journey is filled with political intrigue, power struggles, and personal tragedies. William de Braose rises to prominence during a time of political upheaval, but his actions ultimately lead to his downfall. The Abergavenny massacre of 1175, which he is responsible for, tarnishes his reputation and sets the stage for his downfall. Despite his struggles, William remains determined to protect his family and preserve their legacy.

Ailith, on the other hand, is a young woman with her own set of challenges. She is the seventh child of the seventh child, a rare occurrence that grants her a gift of sight. Ailith's visions often foretell the future, but they also bring her personal turmoil and uncertainty. She must navigate the complexities of her gift and the treacherous world of medieval politics, all while trying to protect her family and find her place in the world.

Storms and Shadows is a captivating tale that explores the complexities of family, loyalty, and the pursuit of power in a turbulent era. It sheds light on the lives of the de Braose family and their struggles to survive and thrive amidst the chaos of medieval England. The story is filled with memorable characters, including William de Braose, Matilda de Braose, and Ailith, each with their own unique motivations and struggles.

Through its vivid storytelling and rich historical backdrop, Storms and Shadows offers a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people caught up in the grand sweep of history. It reminds us of the human cost of power, the importance of loyalty, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 135 x 197 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781916440036