Shadow on the Crown

Set in 1002, this historical work recounts the marriage alliance of 15-year-old Emma of Normandy and the much older King Athelred II of England. Katie Firth brings this story to life with her no-nonsense reading and easy pacing. Court intrigue and ruthless violence vie with descriptions of life among the Saxons and Normans, whose coasts are harried by the marauding Danes. Firth narrates the details of court life, manners, weather, and life in cold castles in a steady voice caught up in the events and emotions of the era. Varying accents and subtle intonations differentiate the host of historical and fictional characters. Listeners will be captivated by the strong royal and aristocratic personages who must negotiate the maze of political wrangling within the Saxon court. M.B.K. (c) AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine

December 3, 2012
Striking a quivering bull’s eye with the first book of a planned trilogy, Bracewell’s enthralling debut begins with Emma of Normandy crossing the “Narrow Sea” in 1002 C.E. to marry the much older King Aethelred. Emma is ill-prepared for the trials that come with her new position; not yet knowing the heart of the old king she makes the mistake of demanding the title of queen. The king, regretting the hasty decision of “taking a Norman slut to wife,” quickly tires of his demanding new bride; jealous rivals vie for Emma’s crown; and the threat of a Viking invasion constantly looms. But Emma’s role in the English court and her only chance of survival come down to heeding her mother’s words: “our first and most important task,” she instructed Emma before her departure, “is to bear a son.” Only then will her crown be secure. In time, Emma wins the hearts of her subjects as well as the affection of a young man in her husband’s court. Determined and savvy, Emma is a strong character that refuses to be cowed by her circumstances. With a light touch, Bracewell delivers a highly entertaining addition to the historical fiction genre. Agent: Stephanie Cabot, the Gernert Company.