King Edwin Accepts Baptism

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Sandra Wagner-Wright

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Saxon Heroines

Literature & Fiction

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Synopsis
Seventh century England is a hodgepodge of warring Anglo-Saxon states filled with shifting alliances and treacherous grabs for royal power. Kings rise and fall, depending on Woden's Luck. Northumbria, the damp kingdom north of the River Humber, is a state riven with rivalries and kings determined to expand at any cost. Women have no obvious role in a warrior society, but by using their wits, four women—two queens and two abbesses—make monumental changes. One woman marries a pagan king and successfully converts him to Christianity before he dies in battle. One becomes the most powerful abbess in Northumbria and holds the Great Synod at Whitby Abbey, which brings the kingdom back to the Roman Church. Another becomes queen and keeps political alliances strong despite different religious denominations. The fourth woman ushers in a new age by negotiating with kings and churchmen to establish one united church in the Northumbrian kingdom. Based on true events and people, this is the story of Northumbria through the eyes of the most important women of their time.

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Author Biography

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

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King Edwin Accepts Baptism

Bishop Paulinus waited a long time for King Edwin to accept the Christian god. Now the king agrees, and Paulinus is ready to start the ceremony, but no. The king tells him to wait. Paulinus must have fallen from exultation to despair in the space of five minutes or less. The king wants to discuss the change with his followers. What if they object? Can they object? Paulinus doesn't know the answer. Does King Edwin?

Book Excerpt

Saxon Heroines

King Edwin stands and stretches to his full height. “Bishop Paulinus, I and my people will accept your God.”

I can hardly believe the words. He could yet change his mind, but there’s a note of conviction in his voice. I think he’s tired of the struggle. It’s easier to surrender to God than to fight Him.

As if he knows my thoughts, the king adds, “But we must wait a little longer.”

“How long, Your Grace? Disaster might strike tomorrow. Will you face it without God’s support and protection?”

“You’re right, but it is a fearsome thing to lead my thanes away from Woden. It must be discussed in the Witan, so we may all be baptized together. I’ll summon the chiefs at the Solstice, and we’ll discuss the matter. Everyone will have a chance to speak, and we will be baptized together.
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