Hidden Vows

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Sandra Wagner-Wright

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Saxon Heroines

Literature & Fiction

synopsis

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

Hidden Vows

Egfrid and Ethedreda married for political reasons. Nevertheless, Egfrid expected marital relations and a son. Etheldreda hoped to remain celibate. She made a vow before God, a vow her father knew of when he arranged the marriage. A vow he had disregarded once before. Ethedreda's first husband respected the vow. Will Egfrid? Imagine his shock and her fear. Will Egfrid break the vow his wife made with God? Does he dare?

Book Excerpt

Saxon Heroines

I lay my hand on Egfrid’s arm. “I have something to tell you first. I made a vow before God to remain chaste. I will never voluntarily consummate this marriage.”

Egfrid’s face flushes, though I’m not sure if it’s the wine or anger. I hope it’s the wine.

“You’re a widow. How can you have a vow of celibacy? When did you make it?”

“Before I married Tondberht. I assure you, I’m untouched by any man.”

“Did you trick him as you have me?”

“I committed no falsehood. My father knew of my vow when he arranged the marriage to Tondberht and then to you.”
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