A novel set in the Dark Ages. The only fantastical element in the story is that Shamanistic spirit journeys are real.

Moran's debut novel suffers some odd flaws: certain plot elements are developed then just peter out to nothing e.g. there is a bit when the protagonists are lost in the forest and starving - a big thing is made of this, then suddenly, they get where they are going and are fed. The whole incident could have been omitted with no loss since there isn't even any resulting character development. The book also ends without really resolving the main plot; it's as if at least one sequel is intended though there is no indication that one will be forth-coming either in the text or on the back cover blurb. So that was a bit disappointing.

The aspect I liked most was the Dark Ages setting, with "British" and "Anglish" being spoken by adjacent tribes and the conversion to Christianity not yet complete; a setting where strong female characters in leadership roles and women who can fight are not obvious anachronisms but historically realistic characterisations.

A very quick check tells me that two sequels have been published and the fourth book has been delivered to the publisher, so I can let Ms.Moran off the unresolved main plot charge! Also, one or two of the disappearing plot threads may be ground work for these sequels - although the example I gave clearly isn't. I'd happily give Bloodline Rising a go - rating rises to *** in light of the new info!