A Hollow Crown

This tour de force of historical fiction explores the murky workly of Saxon history to reveal the remarkable story of Emma of Normandy, wife of two kings, mother to two more and great aunt to the man who chnaged the course of history through the Norman Conquest, William the Conqueror.Aged only thirteen, Emma, daughter of the Duke of Normandy, is married in a strategic alliance to King Aethelred of England. Inept and arrogant, Aethelred the Unready is loathed by his young wife, whom he punishes for his many failings as a ruler. Their first son, Edward, is born through an act of violence that is little more than rape.England is invaded by the Viking King Swein Forkbeard and his son Cnut. After a bitter struggle, Aethelred loses his kingdom and his wife. Emma, now dowager queen, holds London against the invader Cnut. When he demands she surrender or suffer the consequences, Emma stakes everything on a dangerous gamble, but troubles and tragedy still await the indomitable queen as she struggles for power and for survival in a violent male world...This fascinating historical novel reveals the truth behind the woman who played a key role in the power shift from Saxon to Norman, at a pivotal point in world history.

“Joins the ranks of Rosemary Sutcliff, Mary Stewart and Marion Bradley”

Pendragon Magazine
Helen Hollick has a powerful talent for bringing the past vividly to life Elizabeth Chadwick
A spellbinding novel - a fabulous read and one to be recommended unreservedly. If only all historical fiction could be this good Historical Novels Review
Saxon England comes alive in this stunning novel of political intrigue, tragedy and an indomitable queen. A colourful and compelling read Lancashire Evening Post
Compelling, convincing and unforgettable Sharon Penman

Helen Hollick is the author of a trilogy of novels about Arthurian Britain- The Kingmaking, Pendragon's Banner and Shadow of the King, as well as Harold the King. She lives in London.

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