"...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 seems so archaic now -- this conflict between the Columban and Roman church. But in the 7th century it was crucial. The Colmban church was decentralized, and accepting of women but was little known outside the British Isles. The Roman church dominated Europe. Its patriarchal structure offered political and trade ties. Coupled with "signs and wonders", Abbess Hildegard sees spiritual struggles through natural events. Would the old gods return to defeat both churches? If they did, would they exact vengeance?
Book Excerpt
Saxon Heroines
The conflict between our Columban church and the Roman church shatters the very heavens. In May, as summer begins, the moon covers the sun. Then disease stalks the land and frightens people so badly that instead of praying, they throw themselves into the sea for a quicker death. Others fear the old gods are back and begin reciting charms against diseases caused by elf-shot—the arrows shot by capricious elves to causemischief.
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