England’s Martyr
England’s Martyr by Alfred Read, published on August 26, 2023, is a historical fiction novel that serves as the first installment in a trilogy centered on the English hero, Edmund Ironside. Set in 1010 AD, the narrative unfolds during a tumultuous period in England, marked by relentless invasions and the ineffectual rule of King Ethelred. The story follows nobleman Ulfcytel as he rallies an army to confront the Norse marauders led by the warlord Thorkell the Tall, while also navigating the complexities of loyalty and betrayal within his ranks.
Readers will find a vivid portrayal of medieval England, where Ulfcytel’s efforts to unite forces are complemented by the arrival of Alaric, a heroic figure from Wessex. The plot delves into themes of conflict, faith, and the struggle against both external enemies and internal treachery. As the characters confront the challenges of their time, they set the stage for the emergence of Edmund Ironside, a pivotal figure in English history. This edition spans 516 pages and is presented in English, offering a detailed exploration of a critical moment in the nation’s past.
Official synopsis Publisher
Based on true events, England’s Martyr is the opening book in a trilogy depicting the rise of the historically existing English hero, Edmund Ironside.
1010AD: After years of inept rule and incessant invasion, England is on the brink of ruin, its people brutalised and its lands ravaged from wave after wave of Norse marauders.
As the country cracks under yet another assault – this time from the fearsome hordes of the cruel heathen warlord, Thorkell the Tall – a single nobleman, Ulfcytel, has set himself to raising an army, thinking it better to fight and perhaps prevail rather than wait for his ill-advised king, Ethelred, to make himself useful.
Whilst Ulfcytel rallies his forces, he is surprised to find reinforcements arriving from elsewhere, some of them led by Alaric – a heroic and Godly man from the lands of Wessex. Inspired by Alaric’s fortitude, Ulfcytel agrees on a daring plan, thinking he has a chance to eliminate Thorkell and thus cut the head from the heathen horde before battle is joined.
Unbeknownst to either Ulfcytel or Alaric, their absent King Ethelred has plans of his own, plans that will leave them at risk of not only their foreign enemies but the blades of traitors from within their own ranks.
Before all is lost, the two heroes realise they must confront the corruption beating at the heart of England, and in doing so set the stage for the emergence of a new contender for the throne. A man known to history as Edmund. Edmund Ironside.
Caution: This book is set during a particularly traumatic episode in English history that involved extreme military and societal upheaval. The story thus depicts repeated instances of physical conflict/violence, including some which are of a sexual nature. Reader discretion is advised. Given the period in which the book is set, several of the main characters are also devoutly religious and adhere to traditional sentiments and values that some readers may find disagreeable.
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