"...dramatically gripping novel...A captivating account of the lives of extraordinary women in perilous times." —Kirkus
Seventh century Northumbria, the damp kingdom north of the River Humber, is a land dominated by ambitious kings and conflicting gods struggling for dominance.
Four royal women using their wits and charm guide the warring kingdoms into the new Christian age. Queen Ethelberga encourages Edwin of Northumbria to convert to Christianity. Abbess Hild becomes the most powerful female church leader in Northumbria and sponsors the great Synod of Whitby at her abbey. Princess Enfleda weds King Oswy of Northumbria and supports the young church. Her daughter, the Abbess Elfleda, brings together one united Church in Northumbria.
If you enjoy books by Jayne Castel, you will enjoy reading about these royal women in Northumbria
Sandra writes historical fiction. Her latest book, "Ambition, Arrogance & Pride" focuses on 18th century Salem MA. Sandra also blogs about history, travel, and other topics that catch her attention. For more information about Sandra, visit her website https://www.sandrawagnerwright.com
It seemed as if the thanes in the King's Hall were involved in a cosmic battle. Perhaps they were. Both Bishop Paulinus and the Woden's priest Coifi addressed the Witan. In the end, Coifi declared the God of Paulinus to be the better choice. But even cosmic battles have lesser participants. Queen Ethelberga knows that Paulinus' success is also hers. She has done the job Pope Boniface gave her. She is more than a woman who bears princes. Her faith converted a king.
Book Excerpt
Saxon Heroines
The villa is strangely quiet as my ladies and I walk to chapel. All through the night, the King’s Hall heaved with spirits, as if some celestial battle was taking place. My husband’s voice rang out, which didn’t surprise me. But I could also hear Paulinus exhorting the thanes, his voice strong enough to ring through the night air to my chamber. My ladies and I spent the night in prayer, for I knew this was the moment. At last my purpose is fulfilled. It is a great relief that neither the pope nor Paulinus can chastise me for failing to convert the king. From now on, they will call me blessed for myfaith.
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