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 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...I won this book as part of a book package from the Word Wenches
This book was the first historical fiction book I have read in a while. This book interested me because it covered a period of English history I wasn't familiar with. I liked Emma and was impressed with her strength and courage to manipulate and maneuver when needed.
I did get tired of the book halfway through because each chapter just brought the same people constantly switching sides and loyalties. I appreciated Hollick's author note which explained what was fiction versus history.
I feel my patience with longer historical fiction books is waning. I had a similar tired feeling when reading Queen By Right.
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