England in 1348 is a very different place. Class distinction is absolutely defined, and the classes do not mix, unless by necessity or accident. In this novel we have three very different characters: a young Scottish gentlewoman who is determined to flee an arranged marriage to an older man that is not who she wants; a Scottish proctor who sees things perhaps too clearly and who needs to return to his home in Avignon; and a young ploughman who is seeking adventure and advancement of his skills by joining a company of archers in France. Overshadowing their earthly concerns is the Black Death, a catastrophe beyond imagining. As our travellers make their way to fulfil their destinies, they become caught up in preachers’ dire warnings of the end of the world, and all must consider what they want, where they are going, and ultimately what there is for them in this world turned upside down.

This is certainly meticulously researched and strives to give a realistic view of the time. But I found the use of archaic language and phraseology of the time very heavy going and for some it may be near incomprehensible. It required considerable investment of my attention, but it covered all of the big issues of both then and today – life, death, gender issues, love and power.

Reviewed by Lesley West