Abbess Hildeburg Ascends

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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

Abbess Hildeburg Ascends

Abbess Hildeburg is ready to embark on what would become her life's work. As a princess of Northumbria, her experience in worldly matters is vast. Hildeburg understands the political connection between king and church. She cannot control it, but she knows how to negotiate between kings and prelates. Also, Hildeburg is not without spiritual training. Running an abbey is not conducive to the contemplative life, but Hildeburg is not unaware of the ways God intervenes in the world. And now Hildeburg is ready to build the monastery that will define her legacy. No doubt she'll have many topics to pray about.

Book Excerpt

Saxon Heroines

Today, my forty-third birthday, I leave Heretu to take up residence at Streoneshalh on the River Esk—a monastery of men and women built to my specifications. I pray it becomes a beacon of education and spiritual growth.

King Oswy granted me the lands to suit his own purpose, and I, as his kinswoman, agreed. He may lose lands he controls directly, but the land he gives the church will always serve him. Oswy looks to eternity. When our stone church is complete, whatever is left of my Uncle Edwin’s bones will be placed there. Since Oswy doesn’t have to prove his bloodline anymore, I pray his desire to create a family mausoleum to include Edwin is from respect rather than boasting.
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