Rebecca Tingle

Though technically a children’s book, The Edge on the Sword is a satisfying read for adults as well. The story is a speculative account a year in the teenage life of Æthelflæd, firstborn daughter of Alfred the Great, who would become known as ‘The Lady of the Mercians’. Sixteen year-old ‘Flead struggles to come to terms with her betrothal to Lord Athelred of Mercia, and the challenges of growing up, when all she really wants to do is have adventures in the marshes around her show more family’s home, and read poetry.

However, trouble is afoot, as the West Saxons soon learn that the region around Alfred’s Burh is teeming with Danish raiders, so a gaurdian named Red is appointed to guard the young ‘Flead. The presence of the mysterious stranger at first proves annoying and frustrating, but it time the loyal Mercian teaches and advises ‘Flead, his example guiding her to maturity, and to face the greatest danger of her life.

‘Speculative’ historical fiction has the potential to be rather problematic, but this story was on the whole, plausible, accurate and well written. I for one enjoyed the way in which the author wove Literature into the story, including Beowulf, Judith and The Maxims- which the title is derived from. It is known that Alfred had his children educated during the time of his great reform programme, and possible that the sharp and quick- witted Æthelflæd may have benefited from this, so the references to her being taught to read and write seem wholly credible. Also, whilst there is no direct evidence that she ever actually physically fought, or was trained to use weapons, the novel has her doing so, which does ‘work’ in the context of the story. Who knows, maybe it’s not impossible…

Those expecting high political drama and battle scenes will be disappointed, as most of the story is devoted to an account of ‘Flead’s life, relations with her family, and experiences growing up- with the youthful impetuousness , stubbornness and occasional indecisiveness and general difficulty that any teenager or parent of a teen could identify with.
However, whilst 'Flead has reservations and resentment about the changes which her position in life and responsibilities force upon her, these aspects did not ultimately prove anachronistic or jarringly modern as they do in other stories.

Such an approach is interesting from a social historical perspective, giving a ‘feel’ for what the life of a 10th century Saxon princess may have been like, though the story could be a little slow and repetitive in places.
My only gripes were this, and the occasional Americanism, but nothing heinous. It even proved useful for my studies- which was one of my intentions in reading the book, but also an enjoyable pleasure read. I would certainly consider reading the sequel Far Traveller. I would recommend this for all lovers of historical fiction, the Anglo-Saxon period, or just those wanting a good, clean read.

Parents considering the book may wish to know there is some violence towards the end, none of it particularly graphic, but at a level which may prove upsetting for some children. show less

This was a wonderful and well-written historical fiction book, and I enjoyed it very much. It had skillfully drawn characters and plot, and I loved the main characters and was drawn in by both the thoughtful and suspenseful parts. (It was actually much more intense than I expected!) This book offered an amazing glimpse into Anglo-Saxon England through the eyes of a young noblewoman, and showed her journey to become a strong leader of her people. I would recommend this book to anyone who show more enjoys great historical fiction books, especially ones with strong characters (which definitely includes the female protagonist). show less

Very much enjoyed this sequel to The Edge on the Sword. Once again, the author has done a brilliant job of reconstructing this historical time period. I love the storyline she wove for the heroine, especially since we know virtually nothing of what actually happened to her. One can only hope her life turned out something like this. This book had a little more romance than the first, which I also enjoyed. High recommend to anyone looking for a great young adult read. Also good for those who show more love historical fiction, Old English time periods, British history, swords and swordplay, and a young woman coming into her own. show less

This book concerns the arranged marriage of the daughter of King Alfred with Aethelred, Earl of Mercia. She must leave her childhood home and prepare herself to live someplace new. She turns out to be an effective military leader, taking control of the company of guards that were detailed to accompany her to London when the captain is killed. There's a lot of detailed historical discussion of medieval English military strategy and politics.

I probably wouldn't look up this author to read show more another book by her because historical fiction isn't my favorite. In general, I prefer fantasy. I have to say, though, that the book almost made me cry at the end, because it was moving.
(Reviewed by 13-year-old girl). show less