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Author Insight
A Dying King's Request
After Egfrith died, his half-brother Aldfrid came from Iona to accept the crown. Now in A.D. 705, he lies on his deathbed and sends for Abbess Elfleda. The earthly struggle of this royal Northumbrian family is ending, but there is one more thing to accomplish. King Aldfrid wants the rift with Bishop Wilfrid to heal. And he wants Abbess Elfleda to help him. Will she find love for the man who persuaded King Oswy to give Northumbria's Christians into the Roman church? Can she forgive her enemy? Does she want to? Sitting in a smoky room and holding the king's hand, Elfleda will have to choose.
Book Excerpt
Saxon Heroines
I’m too old to travel on winter roads, but King Aldfrid summons me, so I leave Streoneshalh at first light. The messenger said the king is sick unto death. When we reach the king’s villa at Driffield, my escort announces me. Immediately, servants guide me to the king’s chamber.
Torches light the room. They and the fire make the air thick with smoke. I stand a moment, waiting for my eyes to adjust. The king lies in a bed covered in furs. A priest administers Communion and makes the sign of the cross. We pass at the doorway.
There’s a stool next to the bed. I hold Aldfrid’s hand and pray for his recovery.
“I won’t recover.” He speaks so softly, I have to lean over to hear him.
“You can’t know that, Your Majesty. No illness defeats God.”
Aldfrid makes a weak smile. “I was wrong to oppose Bishop Wilfrid. You must help me make it right.
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