The Deal

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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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Author Insight

The Deal

The battles between Oswy of Northumbria and Penda of Mercia continue, as does life at the Northumbrian court. Queen Enfleda gives birth to a daughter called Elfleda whom Oswy acknowledges as his before turning his attention back to warfare. Despite being a Christian king facing Woden's king, Oswy can't secure a victory. Maybe he needs to sweeten the deal he has with God. "I'll dedicate my newborn daughter to you, plus I'll dedicate more monasteries to you, but only if I win the war. Another female moves across the chess board. Queen Enfleda, however, is pleased. Her daughter will never be forced to marry anyone -- and if she lives, she will have her own monastery.

Book Excerpt

Saxon Heroines

When Oswy returns, he acknowledges Elfleda as his and summons every thane in Northumbria to a Witan. With Abbot Finan by his side, Oswy makes a deal with God.

Oswy vows to meet Penda in open battle, and calls on God for victory against Woden. In exchange, Oswy pledges my precious babe to the church as a consecrated virgin to serve God forever. Please take her, I beg God. Keep Elfleda safe.

Oswy bargains with God as he would with a king.

“Not only will I give you my daughter,” he says, “but twelve of my estates, where I will build monasteries to serve you in perpetuity.”
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