Eaudiobook* Review: "The Edge on the Sword"

(by Rebecca Tingle / read by Emily Gray)
Who would have thought the life of girl in 900’s could be so exciting? “The Edge on the Sword” is the story of Aethelflaed, the oldest daughter of the English King Alfred, who at 15 learns she is betrothed the Mercian Aldermen Ethelred. Shortly after the engagement is announced, there is an attempted kidnapping and Aethelfaed’s is forced to face the realities of being the King’s daughter. Guarded by Red, a Mercian envoy, Aethelflaed struggles with her thirst for knowledge and independence against her duty and love for her family. As she makes her way to her new home, Aethelflaed’s party is attacked and she must use all her skill and cunning to lead her men safely to Ethelred.

Tingle’s details and Gray’s narration recreate the feel and pace of life in medieval England. What makes this story more interesting is the fact that Aethelflaed and many others in the book are real historical figures. Aethelflaed, sometimes known as the Lady of Mercia, went on to become ruler of Mercia after her husbands death and was famous for her political and military strategies.

*The Library now has access to downloadable audiobooks - just perfect for your MP3 player. Visit http://www.readingpl.org/listenup.html for more information.