The Whirlwind of Time brings one of Croatia’s most famous legends to life in a thrilling tale where history, mystery, and adventure collide. Inspired by the legend of the Black Queen and grounded in extensive historical research, the story weaves real people, places, and events into a fast-paced journey that never loses sight of its sense of wonder.
Jelena is a twenty-year-old Latin language student haunted by vivid visions of the Black Queen and her ominous raven. But what she believes are only nightmares soon become reality.
While trying to save her brother from a mysterious light rising from the Queen’s Well, Jelena falls into it – and emerges in the 15th century. In a world ruled by superstition, conflict, and uncertainty, she is captured by the Queen’s guards and brought before Barbara of Celje herself – the woman from legend, the Black Queen she has feared for as long as she can remember.
But what if Barbara is nothing like the stories claimed?
Who is this woman really – a witch, a ruler, a mother, an alchemist? And why has Jelena been brought here?
As she searches for a way back to her own time, Jelena slowly uncovers the truth about the Queen, meets loyal friends and dangerous enemies alike. Most unsettling of all is Captain Danijel; sharp-minded, reserved, and dangerously compelling.
Can she trust him? Can she trust the Queen?
What secrets lie hidden within the mysterious fortress of Medvedgrad… and within Samobor Castle?
And why does Barbara insist she has been waiting for Jelena – for centuries?
The Whirlwind of Time sweeps two women from different centuries into a destiny neither of them can escape.
One well. Two women. A whirlwind of time that erases the boundaries between past and future.
