The Edge on the Sword

AEthelflaed (or Flaed for short) lives in late 9th century England. At 15 she lives a happy life as the Kings daughter and a wannabe scholar. But when she learns that her father has, for political reasons, betrothed her to a man she's never met before she watches in shock as the little freedom she has left drifts away. Her father hires a guard named Red to protect her. In the beginning Flaed finds ways to escape from his watchful gaze but when something horrible happens Flaed realizes the seriousness of the situation she's in. Red teaches her how to defend herself, how to fight and use a shield. But when her skills are put to the test will she emerge victorious?This is truly one of the best historical fiction novels I've ever read. Based on the real life story of one of England's most influential women, The Edge on the Sword weaves a wonderful tale of a strong young girl and her life. I recommend this books to fans of such historical novels as Anna of Byzantium and medieval novels such as the Crown and Court Duel.

For those who think that historical fiction is boring obviously haven't read this book. Thrilling and beautiful, The Edge on the Sword tells the story of the legendary war-lady, Princess Aefthelflaed, daughter of the Wessex King. Enter teh young herioine in her teenage years, her uncertainties about her betrothel to her father's ally, and her methodical balance between duty and betrayal of her own emotions woven brilliantly into a world hardly presented in literature. Five stars, only because there are not thousands to show you.

I was caught up in the life of the intelligent, courageous and compassionate heroine, Aethelflaed. I enjoyed the action-packed saga. The coming of age story of a 15 year old princess who must leave her home has universal appeal. It was great to journey alongside a young girl as she matures into a great leader. The author did a superb job in bringing to life the medieval period and succeeded in creating true to life characters.

I liked the way West Saxon life was described without dumbing down details. Flaed is a great heroine, and I want to learn more about the world she lived in.

In the late 800s, the role of a king's daughter was to marry to benefit her father's kingdom. That is the role that fifteen-year-old Aethelflaed has know all her life would someday be hers. But she never expected it to happen so soon, and is shocked when her father announces that she will marry Ethelred of Mercia to strengthen an alliance against the Danes. She couldn't be less prepared for this news, and is shocked by the fact that in a few short months, she will have to leave her family to marry a man that she has never even met. And there are those men that would wish to stop this alliance - Welsh and Danish raiders. Because of this, Flaed's new fiance has sent a bodyguard for her, Red, a gruff man with a mysterious past. But Red has more to offer Flaed then just protection. He can teach her to defend herself using fighting skills that have traditionally only been taught to men. These are skills Flaed will need if she is to face the men who are plotting against her. This historical novel was both exciting and fascinating. Aethelflaed grew up to be a great heroine, but I had never heard of her before. I loved reading about this strong and very real girl who became a leader at a time when women's roles were limited.