To Be A Queen Annie Whitehead

by Natasa Djordjevic - 11:26 AM

Truly great historical fiction not only immerses the reader in historical events without distorting the facts but also transports them into the narrative, creating a sense of familiarity with the characters and settings. "To Be A Queen" masterfully achieves this, presenting a compelling portrayal of Aethelflæd, a fascinating figure from one of my favorite epochs in English history. This period is marked by the fierce resistance of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of Wessex and Mercia against the Viking invasions, as these regions strove to protect their sovereignty. It takes place during a time when Alfred had not yet earned the epithet “the Great,” a designation bestowed upon him by later historians.

The author, Whitehead, employs a writing style that is nothing short of superb, skillfully weaving together a powerful and engaging narrative. His use of poetic phrases such as “king-helm” draws inspiration from the Old English vernacular seen in classic works like "Beowulf." This choice not only enriches the text’s authenticity but also serves to evoke the atmosphere of the time, allowing readers to visualize and feel the world in which these characters lived. In "To Be A Queen," Whitehead creates intimate and vivid portraits of characters against the expansive canvas of history. He brings to life the tumultuous events and conflicts of a period in which Alfred, Ethelred, and Edward fought valiantly to safeguard England from the relentless Viking raids. The narrative features a diverse cast that includes ancient kings, influential royal women, noble thegns, ealdormen (noble leaders), as well as the struggles of fractious children and dedicated servants. Each character is imbued with depth, emotions, and distinctive traits, making them leap off the page and resonate with the reader.
Aethelflæd is depicted in her evolution from a vulnerable child to a determined woman and ultimately to a powerful leader revered by all of Mercia. Her vulnerabilities and flaws are intricately portrayed, giving readers a profound sense of reality and familiarity with her character. Aethelflæd embodies incredible strength and conviction, qualities that shine through her trials and triumphs. She has long been a favorite figure in my exploration of English history, but after diving into "To Be A Queen," I feel an enriched understanding of her persona, as if I know her not just as a historical figure but as a woman of remarkable resilience and significance in her time.