To Be a Queen

Aethelflaed's journey in To Be a Queen reveals her transformation from a royal daughter to a powerful leader amidst Viking invasions.

The narrative centers on Aethelflaed, known as the 'Lady of the Mercians,' who is the daughter of Alfred the Great. To Be a Queen unfolds her journey as the only female ruler of an Anglo-Saxon kingdom during a tumultuous period marked by Viking invasions. Aethelflaed's life is shaped by her royal lineage, but her story is not just about her heritage; it explores the complexities of love, loyalty, and leadership in a time of conflict.

As a child, Aethelflaed is sent to Mercia to live with her aunt, a decision that would have lasting implications. Upon returning to Wessex, she witnesses the horrors of Viking attacks, which instill a deep-rooted fear in her. Her heart is torn between her love for a Mercian lord and her duty, as she is ultimately wed to the ruler of Mercia to forge a crucial alliance. This marriage is fraught with emotional turmoil, as she grapples with her feelings for her first love and the challenges of winning over a skeptical populace.

When her husband becomes incapacitated, Aethelflaed rises to the occasion, taking on the responsibilities of leadership. Her journey is a testament to her resilience as she fights to protect Mercia from Viking threats and navigate the complexities of her family ties, including a rivaling brother. To Be a Queen is a compelling tale of courage, sacrifice, and the struggle for identity in a male-dominated world.