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  • Shadow on the Crown

  • A Novel
  • Written by: Patricia Bracewell
  • Narrated by: Katie Firth
  • Length: 13 hrs and 40 mins
  • 4.4 out of 5 stars (5 ratings)

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Shadow on the Crown cover art

Shadow on the Crown

Written by: Patricia Bracewell
Narrated by: Katie Firth
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Publisher's Summary

A rich tale of power and forbidden love revolving around a young medieval queen

In 1002, 15-year-old Emma of Normandy crosses the Narrow Sea to wed the much older King Athelred of England, whom she meets for the first time at the church door. Thrust into an unfamiliar and treacherous court, with a husband who mistrusts her, stepsons who resent her, and a bewitching rival who covets her crown, Emma must defend herself against her enemies and secure her status as queen by bearing a son.

Determined to outmaneuver her adversaries, Emma forges alliances with influential men at court and wins the affection of the English people. But her growing love for a man who is not her husband and the imminent threat of a Viking invasion jeopardize both her crown and her life.

Based on real events recorded in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, Shadow on the Crown introduces listeners to a fascinating, overlooked period of history and an unforgettable heroine whose quest to find her place in the world will resonate with modern listeners.
©2013 Patricia Bracewell (P)2013 Penguin Audiobooks
Historical
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What the critics say

"Using the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle as her marker, Patricia Bracewell has produced a magnificent work of historical fiction, evoking time and place in a remarkable way, and engaging the reader firmly in her story." (The Daily Mail, UK)

"Bracewell’s portrayal of Emma...is a real tour de force. A five star debut!" (Historical Novels Review)

"Bracewell delivers a highly entertaining addition to the historical fiction genre." (Publishers Weekly)

What listeners say about Shadow on the Crown

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Profile Image for Just

Okay...

I had higher hopes for this story. It started off good but in my opinion declined as it progressed.

I found this story hard to follow at times, as it is told from the perspective of many characters. It was difficult to follow when I tried to pick it up again.

I also didn't really find this story enjoyable as it is about a young woman who is owned by her husband with no freedom. There was also a lot of emphasis of women being beaten and raped.

Other then that it was nice to learn about a Queen that I knew very little about and the detail used by the author was very good.

The narrator was not the best, but also not the worst I have heard.

I probably won't continue the series.

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