The Morning Gift: The troubled quest of an Anglo-Saxon princess

This story is a work of historical fiction based on real people and events in AD 675. It follows the journey of Osryth, the wife of King Aethelred of Mercia, as she travels with a valuable wedding gift to a shrine in Bardney, Lincolnshire, facing many challenges and setbacks along the way. The loss of the treasure causes a rift in her marriage, and the mystery of its whereabouts remains unsolved.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 14 January 2022
Publisher: Brown Dog Books

This captivating tale of historical fiction weaves a tapestry of real people and events, immersing readers in a tumultuous royal marriage that unfolded in the year AD 675 amidst the backdrop of a long-standing conflict between Mercia and Northumbria. The story takes a delightful turn when King Aethelred of Mercia and Osryth of Northumbria, two nations embroiled in perpetual warfare, find solace in an unexpected romance. In a gesture of goodwill and unity, they decide to seal their union through marriage. Aethelred, in his magnanimous spirit, presents Osryth with a precious wedding gift—a treasure trove of invaluable artifacts culled from the hallowed battlefields of history. Hidden within this treasure is a secret that Osryth harbours, a longing to carry the remnants of her long-deceased uncle to a revered shrine in Bardney, Lincolnshire.

Osryth embarks on a perilous journey, traversing vast distances and facing numerous challenges along the way. Her travels take her to enchanting places like Whitby, Lincoln, and eventually York. However, the weight of her secret begins to strain her marriage, as the loss of the gold, silver, and jewels creates a rift between her and King Aethelred. The mystery surrounding the treasure seems insurmountable, casting a shadow of doubt over the couple's future. Will the treasure ever be discovered? Will Osryth and King Aethelred find solace and reconcile their differences?

The story unfolds with a sense of intrigue and suspense, keeping readers eagerly engaged as they unravel the layers of mystery and deceit. The characters, each with their unique motivations and flaws, contribute to the rich tapestry of the narrative. Osryth, portrayed as a strong-willed woman with a deep sense of loyalty, navigates the treacherous paths of her journey with determination and resilience. King Aethelred, on the other hand, is portrayed as a complex character, torn between his duty to his nation and his love for Osryth.

The historical backdrop of the story adds an authentic depth to the narrative, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of medieval England. The political intrigues, the battles, and the cultural nuances of the time are vividly brought to life, providing a backdrop for the personal struggles and triumphs of the characters.

In conclusion, this captivating story of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of treasure offers a unique perspective on the complexities of royal marriages and the power of secrets. With its well-developed characters, intricate plot, and historical backdrop, it transports readers to a world of intrigue and adventure, leaving them eagerly anticipating the resolution of the mystery and the restoration of the couple's fractured bond.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 134 x 198 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839524257