Oswy's Smile

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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

Oswy's Smile

Abbess Hildeburg admits to herself that Wilfrid is a clever and witty debater, while Abbot Colman comes across as pedantic and bewildered. Hildeburg fists her hands underneath her gown's folds. Colman can't grasp that truth and tradition won't catch the king's ear. Only political favor can do that. The decision was made before the meeting started and Wilfrid simply provides the excuse by pointing out that Jesus appointed the Apostle Peter to found his church, and that church was in Rome. Before Colman can respond, King Oswy declares the debate over. Northumbria will join the Roman church. Hildeburg's emotions roil. Anger, disappointment, despair and sorrow flood her soul.

Book Excerpt

Saxon Heroines

Oswy’s smile grows. “Then,” the king announces, “I conclude that Peter guards the gates of heaven. I will obey his commandments in everything to the best of my knowledge and ability. If I don’t, when I come to the gates of heaven there may be no one to open them, because he who holds the keys has turned away.”

Oswy smiles, as if he has a private joke.

Abbot Colman leaves the meeting a disappointed man.

I will never forgive Wilfrid for twisting God’s truth.
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