Geïnspireerd door de legenden en de geschiedenis om haar heen in Yorkshire, waar ze al sinds haar kindertijd woont, ontdekte deze auteur haar passie voor schrijven toen ze prentenboeken voor haar eigen kinderen begon te maken. Hoewel ze ook van tekenen en schilderen houdt, is haar grootste liefde het schrijven. Haar werk is diep geworteld in het rijke erfgoed van de regio die ze haar thuis noemt.
The arrival of a widow from Mercia at Hild's monastery stirs unease among the residents, as she is a reminder of past violence and destruction. Fridgyth, the herb-wife, struggles with her silence amidst the tension, as the community grapples with lingering memories of conflict while trying to maintain a delicate peace in Northumbria. The themes of revenge and the impact of history on present relationships are central to the unfolding drama.
When a young Amazon woman, Myrina, becomes one of the warrior priestesses known as the Moon Riders, she is well prepared to perform their sacred dances, hunt and fight when necessary.
The story follows a herbwife who possesses unique abilities, allowing her to navigate places and perceive things that warriors cannot. Her journey on a mule highlights her special insights and skills, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and intuition over brute strength. This narrative promises an exploration of themes like the power of the feminine, the significance of traditional wisdom, and the hidden depths of the world that often go unnoticed by those focused solely on combat.
Set against the backdrop of Sheffield, the story follows siblings Leila and Sam as they visit their grandmother during the school holidays. Their stay uncovers family secrets intertwined with the inspiring history of the Women of Steel, revealing the strength and resilience of these remarkable women. As they delve deeper, the children learn valuable lessons about heritage and courage, making their holiday an unexpected journey of discovery.