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The Last Great Saxon Earls #1
Godwine Kingmaker: Part One of The Last Great Saxon Earls
The life of Earl Godwine presents us with one of the enduring enigmas of English history; was he greedy and grasping, or protector of English rights against the hated Normans?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
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383 people want to read
About the author
Mercedes Rochelle
17 books149 followersBorn and raised in St. Louis MO, Mercedes Rochelle graduated with a degree in English literature from University of Missouri. Mercedes learned about living history as a re-enactor and has been enamored with historical fiction ever since. A move to New York to do research and two careers ensued, but writing fiction remains her primary vocation. She lives in Sergeantsville, NJ with her husband in a log home they had built themselves.
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January 24, 2015I am the Author! This is a longer synopsis:
The life of Earl Godwine presents us with one of the enduring enigmas of English history. For years, historians gleefully castigated Godwine as the grasping, unscrupulous traitor, using king and Witan to gain power. But on the other hand, Godwine was seen by many as the greatest of all the Saxon Earls, protector of English rights against the influx of hated Normans in Edward the Confessor's court. He was the father and guide of Harold Godwineson, last of the Saxon kings.
How can one man encompass so many contradictory roles?
Part of Godwine's fascination is his unknown origin. This powerful earl, who shared the rule of four-fifths of England with his sons, may very well have been of common birth. His spectacular rise to power alongside the Danish King Canute was worthy of note even to his contemporaries. At first, he may have seemed a traitor, yet after a typically savage beginning Canute's nineteen year-long reign proved to be remarkably peaceful, and the Danish King sought to use Godwine as an example of his willingness to embrace his subjects.
The early part of the book portrays Canute's struggle against Edmund Ironside in 1016 as he repeatedly laid siege to London and fought battles against the Anglo-Saxons. Many of the decisive moves were orchestrated by the traitor Eadric Streaona who eventually murdered Ironside and met his own death at the hands of the Danish King. Godwine's role in this period was minor, but he was in Canute's entourage and quickly gained favor with the King.
Early in his career, Godwine was created Earl of Wessex. The King gave him a noble woman Gytha in marriage who came unwillingly to his bed, but allowed herself to be won over and produced many children. The eldest, Swegn, was born under the cloud of his parents' antagonism, and he grew up to be difficult and tempestuous; his erratic behavior created major problems for his father and family. The second son, Harold was the favorite and the third son, Tostig was envious of his elder brothers; the rivalry between the sons would end in disaster (leading to Part Two: THE SONS OF GODWINE).
King Canute lived until 1035, and was succeeded, after much debate, by his natural son, Harold Harefoot. His rightful - and declared - heir, Harthacnut, was in Denmark, struggling to retain that throne. Godwine favored Harthacnut, and even managed to hold Wessex for him, but eventually had to abandon his cause.
In the midst of all the trouble, Alfred and Edward (half-brothers of Edmund Ironside who had grown up as exiles in Normandy) thought the time was right to push their own claims. They sailed separately to England; Edward's landing was hindered, and he turned back to Normandy. Alfred, however, disembarked in Godwine's earldom, with 600 of his men.
Godwine met with the newcomers, and settled them comfortably in the town for the night. After he left, a contingent of soldiers stormed the town, taking all of them prisoner; they tortured and killed the men, and carried Alfred off. His eyes were put out, though his enemies butchered him so badly that Alfred soon died from the wounds. Although it was known that Harold Harefoot's men did the gruesome deed, Godwine's name was forever linked with the murderers.
Nonetheless, he carried on as the earl of Wessex. Harold Harefoot died within four years, and was succeeded finally by Harthacnut. He, too, died within a few years, but before his end, Edward was summoned from Normandy and treated as the heir.
Even at Harthacnut's death, the succession was not firm. But Godwine gave his support to Edward, notwithstanding the obvious ill-will the exile must have borne him, concerning Alfred's fate. Largely because of Godwine's influence, the Witan elected Edward king. By now, Godwine's power was nearly absolute. He married his daughter Eadgyth to king Edward. He and his two eldest sons had earldoms, essentially ruling in the king's name. Edward deferred to Godwine on all serious matters of state.
Then disaster hit. King Edward shook off Godwine's grasp and managed to drive him into exile. Edward declared the Godwines outlawed, committed his queen to a nunnery, and settled into a new court dominated by his Norman friends. But his satisfaction was not long-lived; all the English factions, hitherto pro- and anti-Godwine, now united in bemoaning their common loss. For it was soon discovered how much Godwine had served to keep the Norman wolves at bay.
Word soon reached the exiles that they would be welcomed back to England, at least by the people. So they gathered what support they could, and boldly sailed up the Thames to Westminster, practically daring the king not to take them back into his favor. Weak-willed as usual, Edward bowed to the inevitable, and Godwine was reinstalled as earl, while the Normans lost no time scattering in all directions. Submissive, Edward accepted Godwine and family as his own, and even developed a real affection for Tostig. The King came to depend on Harold, treating him so well that to some eyes, he was preparing Harold to be his heir.
But for Godwine, life was never the same; the defeat, although temporary, broke his heart. For two years, Godwine aged visibly before his wife and children. Finally, one night, while banqueting with the king, Godwine suffered from a stroke and fell in a swoon, never to recover.
Of course, his life was reflected in his son, Harold, who went on to become King in 1066, the first English monarch not of royal blood. But if it were not for the work and deeds of his father, Harold Godwineson would never have reigned.
The life of Earl Godwine presents us with one of the enduring enigmas of English history. For years, historians gleefully castigated Godwine as the grasping, unscrupulous traitor, using king and Witan to gain power. But on the other hand, Godwine was seen by many as the greatest of all the Saxon Earls, protector of English rights against the influx of hated Normans in Edward the Confessor's court. He was the father and guide of Harold Godwineson, last of the Saxon kings.
How can one man encompass so many contradictory roles?
Part of Godwine's fascination is his unknown origin. This powerful earl, who shared the rule of four-fifths of England with his sons, may very well have been of common birth. His spectacular rise to power alongside the Danish King Canute was worthy of note even to his contemporaries. At first, he may have seemed a traitor, yet after a typically savage beginning Canute's nineteen year-long reign proved to be remarkably peaceful, and the Danish King sought to use Godwine as an example of his willingness to embrace his subjects.
The early part of the book portrays Canute's struggle against Edmund Ironside in 1016 as he repeatedly laid siege to London and fought battles against the Anglo-Saxons. Many of the decisive moves were orchestrated by the traitor Eadric Streaona who eventually murdered Ironside and met his own death at the hands of the Danish King. Godwine's role in this period was minor, but he was in Canute's entourage and quickly gained favor with the King.
Early in his career, Godwine was created Earl of Wessex. The King gave him a noble woman Gytha in marriage who came unwillingly to his bed, but allowed herself to be won over and produced many children. The eldest, Swegn, was born under the cloud of his parents' antagonism, and he grew up to be difficult and tempestuous; his erratic behavior created major problems for his father and family. The second son, Harold was the favorite and the third son, Tostig was envious of his elder brothers; the rivalry between the sons would end in disaster (leading to Part Two: THE SONS OF GODWINE).
King Canute lived until 1035, and was succeeded, after much debate, by his natural son, Harold Harefoot. His rightful - and declared - heir, Harthacnut, was in Denmark, struggling to retain that throne. Godwine favored Harthacnut, and even managed to hold Wessex for him, but eventually had to abandon his cause.
In the midst of all the trouble, Alfred and Edward (half-brothers of Edmund Ironside who had grown up as exiles in Normandy) thought the time was right to push their own claims. They sailed separately to England; Edward's landing was hindered, and he turned back to Normandy. Alfred, however, disembarked in Godwine's earldom, with 600 of his men.
Godwine met with the newcomers, and settled them comfortably in the town for the night. After he left, a contingent of soldiers stormed the town, taking all of them prisoner; they tortured and killed the men, and carried Alfred off. His eyes were put out, though his enemies butchered him so badly that Alfred soon died from the wounds. Although it was known that Harold Harefoot's men did the gruesome deed, Godwine's name was forever linked with the murderers.
Nonetheless, he carried on as the earl of Wessex. Harold Harefoot died within four years, and was succeeded finally by Harthacnut. He, too, died within a few years, but before his end, Edward was summoned from Normandy and treated as the heir.
Even at Harthacnut's death, the succession was not firm. But Godwine gave his support to Edward, notwithstanding the obvious ill-will the exile must have borne him, concerning Alfred's fate. Largely because of Godwine's influence, the Witan elected Edward king. By now, Godwine's power was nearly absolute. He married his daughter Eadgyth to king Edward. He and his two eldest sons had earldoms, essentially ruling in the king's name. Edward deferred to Godwine on all serious matters of state.
Then disaster hit. King Edward shook off Godwine's grasp and managed to drive him into exile. Edward declared the Godwines outlawed, committed his queen to a nunnery, and settled into a new court dominated by his Norman friends. But his satisfaction was not long-lived; all the English factions, hitherto pro- and anti-Godwine, now united in bemoaning their common loss. For it was soon discovered how much Godwine had served to keep the Norman wolves at bay.
Word soon reached the exiles that they would be welcomed back to England, at least by the people. So they gathered what support they could, and boldly sailed up the Thames to Westminster, practically daring the king not to take them back into his favor. Weak-willed as usual, Edward bowed to the inevitable, and Godwine was reinstalled as earl, while the Normans lost no time scattering in all directions. Submissive, Edward accepted Godwine and family as his own, and even developed a real affection for Tostig. The King came to depend on Harold, treating him so well that to some eyes, he was preparing Harold to be his heir.
But for Godwine, life was never the same; the defeat, although temporary, broke his heart. For two years, Godwine aged visibly before his wife and children. Finally, one night, while banqueting with the king, Godwine suffered from a stroke and fell in a swoon, never to recover.
Of course, his life was reflected in his son, Harold, who went on to become King in 1066, the first English monarch not of royal blood. But if it were not for the work and deeds of his father, Harold Godwineson would never have reigned.
February 23, 2018
Godwine Godwineson. First Earl of Wessex. Possibly from humble beginnings. Rose from the ranks. Served four kings. Powerful and influential. Husband to a Danish noble. Father to three earls, one queen, and England’s last Anglo-Saxon king. Champion of the English. Known as the Kingmaker. A force to reckon with.
To some, he was sly, manipulative, and unscrupulous. A schemer that will not stop at anything to ensure he always had the upper hand.
This was also the impression I’ve had of Earl Godwine when I first read about him in previous historical books. That a man of modest pedigree who had risen to the top and become the king’s confidant is remarkable, but I thought his motivations for serving the crown bordered on vested interests and not loyalty. In a chaotic era he’d lived in, he was an important figure of the realm, but reviled, too, by those he’d sidestepped grievously to stay in power.
But before Godwine was the Kingmaker, he is young, innocent, and honest; a youthful shepherd yearning for some adventure, for some significant change to come into his life. That life-changing moment suddenly comes when he meets Ulf, the brother-in-law of England’s future king. This is how the author Mercedes Rochelle introduced Godwine to us, and for me, it gave a fascinating glimpse into his life and what kind of a person he had become. And as the story maneuvers to show more of his reflective side, and is obviously partial to his cause, it helped us understand the difficult choices he had to make.
I just felt the book is too short to cover so much of Godwine’s history. There were so many things that happened in his time, but a lot of times I had to contend with the book’s fast-paced narration, and since it’s been a while I last read about the Godwinesons and his contemporaries, frequent side trips to Wikipedia was necessary to refresh my memory. And I’m a bit sad too that the author did not include my favorite Historical Note / Author’s Note for any clarification or useful add-on.
On the whole, I enjoyed this incursion again to pre-Norman England, and am eager to read the rest of the books from the series.
Note: I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
To some, he was sly, manipulative, and unscrupulous. A schemer that will not stop at anything to ensure he always had the upper hand.
This was also the impression I’ve had of Earl Godwine when I first read about him in previous historical books. That a man of modest pedigree who had risen to the top and become the king’s confidant is remarkable, but I thought his motivations for serving the crown bordered on vested interests and not loyalty. In a chaotic era he’d lived in, he was an important figure of the realm, but reviled, too, by those he’d sidestepped grievously to stay in power.
But before Godwine was the Kingmaker, he is young, innocent, and honest; a youthful shepherd yearning for some adventure, for some significant change to come into his life. That life-changing moment suddenly comes when he meets Ulf, the brother-in-law of England’s future king. This is how the author Mercedes Rochelle introduced Godwine to us, and for me, it gave a fascinating glimpse into his life and what kind of a person he had become. And as the story maneuvers to show more of his reflective side, and is obviously partial to his cause, it helped us understand the difficult choices he had to make.
I just felt the book is too short to cover so much of Godwine’s history. There were so many things that happened in his time, but a lot of times I had to contend with the book’s fast-paced narration, and since it’s been a while I last read about the Godwinesons and his contemporaries, frequent side trips to Wikipedia was necessary to refresh my memory. And I’m a bit sad too that the author did not include my favorite Historical Note / Author’s Note for any clarification or useful add-on.
On the whole, I enjoyed this incursion again to pre-Norman England, and am eager to read the rest of the books from the series.
Note: I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2015
This was the first book I read that has Godwine as the main character and it was great to see things from his perspective. We see how he manages to rise from a commoner to one of the most influential men in England.
I’m in two minds how I felt about this book and probably the biggest reason is that I couldn’t relate to Godwine. He’s like I met this total stranger in the forest, he seems like a nice fellow so why don’t I join him and turn traitor to my country? Simple as that. And off to kill your countymen you go. Hmm…
He falls in love with Gytha, who refuses his proposal and acts all haughty anyway, and king gives permission to marry her after Gytha’s brother is killed. She suspects Godwine is involved in the murder. Does it surprise that the marriage starts bit rocky? I just couldn’t understand why he wanted to marry her in the first place. I did like to see how they could turn that into a love match later on.
Godwine was a good hero for the book and it was fascinating to see how he manages to maneuver between difficult political times and different alliances. Later in the book we get another view of him when Edward the Confessor comes into picture.
I’m in two minds how I felt about this book and probably the biggest reason is that I couldn’t relate to Godwine. He’s like I met this total stranger in the forest, he seems like a nice fellow so why don’t I join him and turn traitor to my country? Simple as that. And off to kill your countymen you go. Hmm…
He falls in love with Gytha, who refuses his proposal and acts all haughty anyway, and king gives permission to marry her after Gytha’s brother is killed. She suspects Godwine is involved in the murder. Does it surprise that the marriage starts bit rocky? I just couldn’t understand why he wanted to marry her in the first place. I did like to see how they could turn that into a love match later on.
Godwine was a good hero for the book and it was fascinating to see how he manages to maneuver between difficult political times and different alliances. Later in the book we get another view of him when Edward the Confessor comes into picture.
March 12, 2015
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of this book from the author. Godwine Kingmaker Part One of The Last Great Saxon Earls, is set during the pre-conquest of England. This is a time frame that I love to read about so I was excited to start reading. Godwine Wulfnothson, the main character of the book is a fascinating man that I feel the author, Mercedes Rochelle gives a plausible history to his life and the choices he made.
Beginning with the chance meeting of Godwine with Jarl Ulf that leads to his becoming entangled with the Danes and King Canute. This chance meeting will lead to great fortune to Godwine but also brings many hard decisions. Decisions that walk a fine line between what Godwine knows is the right thing to do and his doing what he can to survive.
Godwine advances under King Canute to the Earldom of Wessex which continues throughout the upheavals in English politics of the time. With his strong willed wife Gytha by his side, Godwine founds a dynasty. Sadly, a dynasty bound to end through conquest and war.
I am really looking forward to book two of this series. I hope that Harold, Godwine's son, will be the main subject. Another fascinating man and one with a momentous life, I look forward to Mercedes Rochelle's crafting of his story.
Beginning with the chance meeting of Godwine with Jarl Ulf that leads to his becoming entangled with the Danes and King Canute. This chance meeting will lead to great fortune to Godwine but also brings many hard decisions. Decisions that walk a fine line between what Godwine knows is the right thing to do and his doing what he can to survive.
Godwine advances under King Canute to the Earldom of Wessex which continues throughout the upheavals in English politics of the time. With his strong willed wife Gytha by his side, Godwine founds a dynasty. Sadly, a dynasty bound to end through conquest and war.
I am really looking forward to book two of this series. I hope that Harold, Godwine's son, will be the main subject. Another fascinating man and one with a momentous life, I look forward to Mercedes Rochelle's crafting of his story.
January 26, 2016
The story of the early years of the life of the father of the last Anglo-Saxon King of England, is convincingly re-imagined by author, Mercedes Rochelle. Godwin lived in a perilous time - Anglo-Saxon England was invaded by the Vikings; political alliances constantly fluctuated between native ruler and invader, and survival depended solely on one's political acumen and sword-arm. Though often maligned, Godwin was a survivor and a man of his times, and a man who would come to take a prominent role in the changing political direction of Anglo-Saxon Egland. I cannot recommend this book enough as I enjoy history's "villains" being brought to light, and look forward to the next installment.
February 1, 2018
Godwine Kingmaker: Part One of the Last Great Saxon Earls is a rich historical novel set in the lesser-known period between Alfred the Great (spanned so thoroughly by Bernard Cornwell) and William the Conqueror. The intrigues, deep intricacies, and both family and national ties between Saxons, Danes, Normans, and other Norseman are well woven into a saga, deepening the readers’ understanding of the period while at the same time immersing us in the hopes and dreams of the shepherd boy coming into his own. Rochelle’s prose is flowing, well-paced, solidly-researched, and quite readable in bringing this unique historical figure to life.
Perhaps the best part of the book is the tumultuous relationship between Godwine and his wife Gytha. She is an ambitious flirt who revels in her independence; when she is wed to Godwine against her wishes she revolts and makes their relationship a living hell. Except she is inescapably drawn to him at the same time. Godwine both woos and tames her, bringing her around to a loving, respectful, genuine partnership that sustains them both through the rocky trials of being a powerful earl in a country unsure what it wants to be become. The romance between the two is steamy and compelling as well as a break from the nonstop scheming and power-plays of the potential heirs to the throne of Britain.
I am voluntarily reviewing this book; many thanks to the author for sharing her copy with me.
Perhaps the best part of the book is the tumultuous relationship between Godwine and his wife Gytha. She is an ambitious flirt who revels in her independence; when she is wed to Godwine against her wishes she revolts and makes their relationship a living hell. Except she is inescapably drawn to him at the same time. Godwine both woos and tames her, bringing her around to a loving, respectful, genuine partnership that sustains them both through the rocky trials of being a powerful earl in a country unsure what it wants to be become. The romance between the two is steamy and compelling as well as a break from the nonstop scheming and power-plays of the potential heirs to the throne of Britain.
I am voluntarily reviewing this book; many thanks to the author for sharing her copy with me.
April 5, 2023
Godwin Kingmaker by Mercedes Rochelle is a historical saga about Godwin, Earl of Wessex, during the tumultuous 11th Century when King Canute ruled over the vast empires of England, Denmark, and Norway. The story begins in 1016 AD when Godwin finds Ulf, a Danish commander and the son-in-law of Canute, wandering the woods after a battle at Sherstone. A son of a disgraced Saxon aristocrat, Godwine decides to seek his fortune with the influential Dane. As a result, Godwine meets and becomes a trusted advisor to Canute. After Canute seizes the English throne, Godwine rapidly rises and becomes Earl of Sussex. Between 1019 and 1023 AD, Godwine accompanies Canute on an expedition to Denmark, where he distinguishes himself and marries Ulf's sister.
However, everything changed for Godwine in 1035 AD when King Canute died. Godwine is swept into the disputes of Canute's sons, each vying for the English throne. Godwine must choose loyalty between the ruling king and his family's survival. He secures the marriage of his daughter to the last surviving son of Canute, King Edward. Ultimately, Godwine's son, Harold succeeds him as Earl of Wessex and is destined to become the king of England, setting the stage for the Norman invasion and Battle of Hastings.
Author Mercedes Rochelle deftly navigates Godwine's life-long saga against the backdrop of political upheavals of Saxon and Danish kings. The historical detail in the story is evidence of the author's meticulous research of the period. The culture and daily life of people in the Middle Ages are brought to life. Universal themes of love, the quest for power, betrayal, and redemption are explored.
The story is told from the perspective of various characters, which could shift from one to another in a scene. However, the narrative is most engaging from Godwine's point of view. It provides insight into his meteoric rise in power and his delicate balance of demonstrating loyalty to various factions while safeguarding his family's legacy. One of the tragedies in the story is how Godwine's family is splintered from his sons' rivalries with each other.
For those who enjoy learning more about medieval England or have watched the Vikings Valhalla series, I suggest reading Godwin Kingmaker, which sheds light on historical figures who changed the course of history in northern Europe.
However, everything changed for Godwine in 1035 AD when King Canute died. Godwine is swept into the disputes of Canute's sons, each vying for the English throne. Godwine must choose loyalty between the ruling king and his family's survival. He secures the marriage of his daughter to the last surviving son of Canute, King Edward. Ultimately, Godwine's son, Harold succeeds him as Earl of Wessex and is destined to become the king of England, setting the stage for the Norman invasion and Battle of Hastings.
Author Mercedes Rochelle deftly navigates Godwine's life-long saga against the backdrop of political upheavals of Saxon and Danish kings. The historical detail in the story is evidence of the author's meticulous research of the period. The culture and daily life of people in the Middle Ages are brought to life. Universal themes of love, the quest for power, betrayal, and redemption are explored.
The story is told from the perspective of various characters, which could shift from one to another in a scene. However, the narrative is most engaging from Godwine's point of view. It provides insight into his meteoric rise in power and his delicate balance of demonstrating loyalty to various factions while safeguarding his family's legacy. One of the tragedies in the story is how Godwine's family is splintered from his sons' rivalries with each other.
For those who enjoy learning more about medieval England or have watched the Vikings Valhalla series, I suggest reading Godwin Kingmaker, which sheds light on historical figures who changed the course of history in northern Europe.
May 5, 2015
Source: Free paperback copy from Mercedes Rochelle and Top Hat Books in exchange for a review.
Summary:
Harold Godwineson, the Last Anglo-Saxon King, owed everything to his father. Who was this Godwine, first Earl of Wessex and known as the Kingmaker? Was he an unscrupulous schemer, using King and Witan to gain power? Or was he the greatest of all Saxon Earls, protector of the English against the hated Normans? The answer depends on who you ask. He was befriended by the Danes, raised up by Canute the Great, given an Earldom and a wife from the highest Danish ranks. He sired nine children, among them four Earls, a Queen and a future King. Along with his power came a struggle to keep his enemies at bay, and Godwine’s best efforts were brought down by the misdeeds of his eldest son Swegn. Although he became father-in-law to a reluctant Edward the Confessor, his fortunes dwindled as the Normans gained prominence at court. Driven into exile, Godwine regathered his forces and came back even stronger, only to discover that his second son Harold was destined to surpass him in renown and glory.
My Thoughts:
Before the Norman invaders, principally William the Conqueror, there were the Vikings. Four Danish men were kings of England. Three of them had brief reigns. It was during this period that a transformation of England began. I love this period in history, especially the Godwine family. I am not a fan of Godwine, nor will I argue whether he was guilty of the murder of Alfred (Edward the Confessor's brother.) But I do enjoy reading about this historical period. I feel it is the diverse personalities of the kings on the throne, as well as the dramatic twists in history that add to my interest.
I had wondered before reading Godwine Kingmaker, if the author had a leaning towards a positive or negative portrayal of Godwine?
Godwine is shown as a man of ambition. He is intelligent and resourceful. He seems to be in the right place and introduced to the right people that lead him to a powerful position. Holding onto the position and passing down a legacy to his children became treacherous.
I felt Mercedes Rochelle gave flesh and bone to Godwine. He is not overtly good or bad, but a man who loved his family and wanted to protect his position and their future.
I was shown another perspective of Godwine through the eyes of Edward the Confessor. Edward did not trust Godwine and this is told in the story to perfection.
Harold II Godwineson is the son of Godwine. He is given a few parts in this book, the final chapter points to his dominant future.
There is only one point I did not like about the book. Early in the story the first days of Godwine and Gytha's marriage is clumsy. Their marriage at this point is like two bear cubs tumbling over each other, they are not connecting and their love scenes are fickle. This story line did not work for me.
Summary:
Harold Godwineson, the Last Anglo-Saxon King, owed everything to his father. Who was this Godwine, first Earl of Wessex and known as the Kingmaker? Was he an unscrupulous schemer, using King and Witan to gain power? Or was he the greatest of all Saxon Earls, protector of the English against the hated Normans? The answer depends on who you ask. He was befriended by the Danes, raised up by Canute the Great, given an Earldom and a wife from the highest Danish ranks. He sired nine children, among them four Earls, a Queen and a future King. Along with his power came a struggle to keep his enemies at bay, and Godwine’s best efforts were brought down by the misdeeds of his eldest son Swegn. Although he became father-in-law to a reluctant Edward the Confessor, his fortunes dwindled as the Normans gained prominence at court. Driven into exile, Godwine regathered his forces and came back even stronger, only to discover that his second son Harold was destined to surpass him in renown and glory.
My Thoughts:
Before the Norman invaders, principally William the Conqueror, there were the Vikings. Four Danish men were kings of England. Three of them had brief reigns. It was during this period that a transformation of England began. I love this period in history, especially the Godwine family. I am not a fan of Godwine, nor will I argue whether he was guilty of the murder of Alfred (Edward the Confessor's brother.) But I do enjoy reading about this historical period. I feel it is the diverse personalities of the kings on the throne, as well as the dramatic twists in history that add to my interest.
I had wondered before reading Godwine Kingmaker, if the author had a leaning towards a positive or negative portrayal of Godwine?
Godwine is shown as a man of ambition. He is intelligent and resourceful. He seems to be in the right place and introduced to the right people that lead him to a powerful position. Holding onto the position and passing down a legacy to his children became treacherous.
I felt Mercedes Rochelle gave flesh and bone to Godwine. He is not overtly good or bad, but a man who loved his family and wanted to protect his position and their future.
I was shown another perspective of Godwine through the eyes of Edward the Confessor. Edward did not trust Godwine and this is told in the story to perfection.
Harold II Godwineson is the son of Godwine. He is given a few parts in this book, the final chapter points to his dominant future.
There is only one point I did not like about the book. Early in the story the first days of Godwine and Gytha's marriage is clumsy. Their marriage at this point is like two bear cubs tumbling over each other, they are not connecting and their love scenes are fickle. This story line did not work for me.
November 9, 2016
It took a while to read, but that was because I spent a lot of time at re-enactment camps after I started it.
It was ok, but not as good as I had hoped. Earl Godwine deserves more coverage than he gets, so not finding this quite did the job possibly stopped me from giving it 4 *
The book covers all the known source material, but for me lacked any real new insight, and I didn't feel there was any depth to the characters.
The first thing that got me was the 3 rabbits Godwine & Ulf ate - rabbits came with the Normans in 1066! The fate of Edric Streona was not covered, nor was Aelfgifu of Northampton & her son ruling Norway for Canute. Lady Godiva was Lord of Coventry, not her husband Leofric. All the sources I have found have nuns having cropped hair. Estrith - not Estrid; the d is in fact ð an 'eth'. yes and, last but not least, why Saxons when talking about the English? The Normans called us Saxons, but we called ourselves Anglecynn, which in modern terms is English. I wasn't too happy with the description of the knife fight either, but then I am a re-enactor who knows how to use a fighting knife, so mustn't get too precious. Petty points, I know, but I was so looking forward to reading this book.
It was ok, but not as good as I had hoped. Earl Godwine deserves more coverage than he gets, so not finding this quite did the job possibly stopped me from giving it 4 *
The book covers all the known source material, but for me lacked any real new insight, and I didn't feel there was any depth to the characters.
The first thing that got me was the 3 rabbits Godwine & Ulf ate - rabbits came with the Normans in 1066! The fate of Edric Streona was not covered, nor was Aelfgifu of Northampton & her son ruling Norway for Canute. Lady Godiva was Lord of Coventry, not her husband Leofric. All the sources I have found have nuns having cropped hair. Estrith - not Estrid; the d is in fact ð an 'eth'. yes and, last but not least, why Saxons when talking about the English? The Normans called us Saxons, but we called ourselves Anglecynn, which in modern terms is English. I wasn't too happy with the description of the knife fight either, but then I am a re-enactor who knows how to use a fighting knife, so mustn't get too precious. Petty points, I know, but I was so looking forward to reading this book.
April 29, 2015
I do love early English history. Many of the books I’ve read from that time period focus more on the kings and many have told the tale of Harold, Godwine’s son and the last Anglo Saxon king of England but this is the first book I’ve read that has told the story of Godwine. And told that story for the sake of Godwine not as a back drop to Harold’s tale.
It starts when Godwine is just a young boy and finds a warrior lost in his woods. Even at such a young age he figures out how to take the best advantage of a situation which shows off the sharp wit and intelligence that would carry him through his life as he befriends and becomes important to the Danish King Canute and ultimately becomes the first Earl of Wessex. He walks a fine line throughout his life making decisions that sometimes seem questionable.
I dove right in to Godwine’s tale – in fact I read this book in a day. Ms. Rochelle does an excellent job of bringing the reader into Godwine’s world whether he is in that forest with a lamb or on a ship at sea. A great man has been create and brought to life from the scraps left to history. I will eagerly await the next installment in this series
4.5
It starts when Godwine is just a young boy and finds a warrior lost in his woods. Even at such a young age he figures out how to take the best advantage of a situation which shows off the sharp wit and intelligence that would carry him through his life as he befriends and becomes important to the Danish King Canute and ultimately becomes the first Earl of Wessex. He walks a fine line throughout his life making decisions that sometimes seem questionable.
I dove right in to Godwine’s tale – in fact I read this book in a day. Ms. Rochelle does an excellent job of bringing the reader into Godwine’s world whether he is in that forest with a lamb or on a ship at sea. A great man has been create and brought to life from the scraps left to history. I will eagerly await the next installment in this series
4.5
December 19, 2017
By E. Thomas Behr, Ph.D., author of Blood Brothers: Courage and Treachery on the Shores of Tripoli, and The Most Bold and Daring Act of the Age.
A wonderfully executed, richly-developed historical novel!
Readers who enjoy tightly written, compelling story-telling with deeply engaging characters are in for a real treat with Mercedes Rochelle’s Godwine Kingmaker: Part One of The Last Great Saxon Earls. This is historical fiction in the grand tradition of Hope Muntz’s The Golden Warrior and Mary Stewart’s and T. H. White’s Arthurian sagas.
Godwine, an18-year-old Saxon sheepherder, accidentally meets and then befriends a marauding Danish nobleman whom he finds lost and wandering in the thick forest near his Wiltshire home. That friendship changes forever not only Godwine’s life, but the history of England as well.
Mercedes Rochelle takes us back into the dim past, almost before recorded history, when the nation we now know as England was being forged in the fiery crucible of war and treachery. Six hundred years before, invading Saxons had overrun England when the Roman Empire collapsed. Now the Saxons had gone from being conquerors to conquered as incessant waves of ferocious Danes and Norwegian Vikings attacked, plundered, and eventually settled in England, carving out a new kingdom for themselves in blood.
Godwine’s father, Wulfnoth, Thegn of Sussex, former commander of the Saxon King Aethelred’s fleet. had been wrongly betrayed and disgraced. Absent a father’s influence, Godwine’s ambition causes him to pledge his loyalty to his new Danish friend, Ulf, and to Ulf’s lord, the Danish king Canute the Great. Through his skill in war and politics, Godwine rises steadily in authority. Within 20 years he has become Earl of Wessex, one of the richest and most powerful men in England. Lacking royal blood, he cannot aspire to the kingship. But he does dream of the time when one of his fiercely competitive sons, Swegn, Harold, or Tostig, might unite England under a Saxon king.
In Godwine Kingmaker, the past becomes alive. Rochelle lets you walk around London and Winchester a thousand years ago. And for many readers, this is our distant past. Here’s the account of the Winter Solstice celebration that has now become our Christmas.
Many authors (too many) take the easy way out in historical fiction by using third-person narration to talk about their characters and the plot at length, keeping readers at a distance from the story. What I enjoy most about Rochelle’s writing is her skillful use of dialogue to completely immerse the reader in the story. It is as if we are in the midst of the action ourselves, eavesdropping on the characters.
But these are complex, ambitious men, easily provoked to violence.
Rochelle’s research into this historic era is impressively comprehensive. The small details (like how one eats a dripping piece of meat before the invention of forks!) are wonderful. But Rochelle manages the dialogue and the historical context without the artifice of contrived “historic” language. These are real people intensely engaged in life, love, and death.
There is so much to enjoy in this book. The battle scenes are suspenseful and gripping, and the descriptions of locales are vividly portrayed. The female characters, notably Godwine’s wife Gytha, are just as richly developed. Godwine’s and Gytha’s arranged marriage begins in hot fire and freezing ice, only ripening, over time, into deep love.
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for yourself or your friends to bring light and warmth to a cold winter’s night, you can’t do better than Mercedes Rochelle’s Godwine Kingmaker.
A wonderfully executed, richly-developed historical novel!
Readers who enjoy tightly written, compelling story-telling with deeply engaging characters are in for a real treat with Mercedes Rochelle’s Godwine Kingmaker: Part One of The Last Great Saxon Earls. This is historical fiction in the grand tradition of Hope Muntz’s The Golden Warrior and Mary Stewart’s and T. H. White’s Arthurian sagas.
Godwine, an18-year-old Saxon sheepherder, accidentally meets and then befriends a marauding Danish nobleman whom he finds lost and wandering in the thick forest near his Wiltshire home. That friendship changes forever not only Godwine’s life, but the history of England as well.
Mercedes Rochelle takes us back into the dim past, almost before recorded history, when the nation we now know as England was being forged in the fiery crucible of war and treachery. Six hundred years before, invading Saxons had overrun England when the Roman Empire collapsed. Now the Saxons had gone from being conquerors to conquered as incessant waves of ferocious Danes and Norwegian Vikings attacked, plundered, and eventually settled in England, carving out a new kingdom for themselves in blood.
Godwine’s father, Wulfnoth, Thegn of Sussex, former commander of the Saxon King Aethelred’s fleet. had been wrongly betrayed and disgraced. Absent a father’s influence, Godwine’s ambition causes him to pledge his loyalty to his new Danish friend, Ulf, and to Ulf’s lord, the Danish king Canute the Great. Through his skill in war and politics, Godwine rises steadily in authority. Within 20 years he has become Earl of Wessex, one of the richest and most powerful men in England. Lacking royal blood, he cannot aspire to the kingship. But he does dream of the time when one of his fiercely competitive sons, Swegn, Harold, or Tostig, might unite England under a Saxon king.
In Godwine Kingmaker, the past becomes alive. Rochelle lets you walk around London and Winchester a thousand years ago. And for many readers, this is our distant past. Here’s the account of the Winter Solstice celebration that has now become our Christmas.
Inside the great hall … the carved Jul log was sprinkled with mead and decorated with dry sprigs of pine and cones. As it was lit, musicians plucked the strings of their harps and started the singing. Soon the hall was echoing with laughter … the children filled their shoes with straw, carrots, and sugar lumps and set them out by the fire to feed Odin’s flying eight-legged horse Sleipnir. … In return, Odin wold leave the children small gifts and sweets as a reward.
Many authors (too many) take the easy way out in historical fiction by using third-person narration to talk about their characters and the plot at length, keeping readers at a distance from the story. What I enjoy most about Rochelle’s writing is her skillful use of dialogue to completely immerse the reader in the story. It is as if we are in the midst of the action ourselves, eavesdropping on the characters.
But these are complex, ambitious men, easily provoked to violence.
The night after the battle, Ulf was pacing the room. [He} was almost festive, which contrasted with Canute’s dangerous brooding. Finally, Ulf came to a stop with a snap of his fingers. “I know, Sire. How about a game of chess?”
At first, no one paid particular attention to the game, until Canute said, “Put my knight back. Ulf.”
Ulf pushed his stool violently back from the table.
“I want to make another move,” the King said.
“No. Your move was finished and cannot be unmade.”
“And I say you shall.”
Clenching his fists and then thinking better of it, Ulf shoved the board from the table, scattering the pieces across the room. As he made for the door, Canute jeered after him, “Are you running away, Ulf the coward?”
Rochelle’s research into this historic era is impressively comprehensive. The small details (like how one eats a dripping piece of meat before the invention of forks!) are wonderful. But Rochelle manages the dialogue and the historical context without the artifice of contrived “historic” language. These are real people intensely engaged in life, love, and death.
There is so much to enjoy in this book. The battle scenes are suspenseful and gripping, and the descriptions of locales are vividly portrayed. The female characters, notably Godwine’s wife Gytha, are just as richly developed. Godwine’s and Gytha’s arranged marriage begins in hot fire and freezing ice, only ripening, over time, into deep love.
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for yourself or your friends to bring light and warmth to a cold winter’s night, you can’t do better than Mercedes Rochelle’s Godwine Kingmaker.
October 25, 2025
Godwine, a young man of common stock, ends up by chance at the court of the Danish King Canute as his advisor. During one of their trips to Denmark he falls in love with Gytha, but that love is not mutual. Not long after, Canute conquers the English throne and makes Godwine Earl of Wessex. But Canute has several sons and there are also some Anglo-Saxon contenders to the throne, so when Canute dies, the succession is uncertain and Godwine tries to defend the interests of his family and Wessex.
In this first book of this trilogy Rochelle recounts the life of Godwine, a very important figure just before 1066. He played a role in the reigns of no fewer than five English kings during a turbulent period. Depending on your perspective, Godwine emerges as a defender of the Saxons or as a power-hungry earl.
Rochelle attempts to write down his life story, and she does so well. Still, I sometimes had some difficulty with the storylines. It’s difficult to tell his whole life story in such a short book. I felt that the enemies-to-lovers storyline with Gytha and the birth of Swein got too much attention and it was provided too easy as an excuse for Swein’s character, but the second half of the book is much better. Especially when the sons are a little older and the different kings quickly succeed each other.
And those sons are discussed further in the next two books – especially Tostig and Harold – as we’re heading towards 1066. So I definitely want to continue reading this trilogy, although I hoped this book would get to me more than it did.
Dutch review:
De niet nobele Godwine komt als bij toeval aan het hof van de Deense King Canute terecht als zijn adviseur. Tijdens één van hun reizen naar Denemarken wordt hij verliefd op Gytha maar die liefde is niet wederzijds. Niet veel verovert Canute de Engelse troon en maakt hij van Godwine Earl of Wessex. Maar Canute heeft verschillende zonen en er zijn ook nog Saksische troonprecedenten, dus wanneer hij sterft is de opvolging onzeker en probeert Godwine de belangen van zijn familie en Wessex te verdedigen.
Rochelle vertelt in dit eerste boek van drie het leven van Godwine, een heel belangrijke persoon vlak voor 1066. Hij speelde een rol in de regering van maar liefst 5 Engelse koningen tijdens een turbulente periode. Afhankelijk van het perspectief dat je hebt komt hij naar voren als een verdediger van de Saksen of als een machtsbeluste earl.
Rochelle doet een poging om zijn leven neer te pennen, en doet dat goed. Toch had ik soms wat moeite met de verhaallijnen. Het gaat soms heel snel om heel zijn leven in zo'n kort boek vertellen. Ik vond vooral de enemies to lovers verhaallijn met Gytha en de geboorte van Swein te veel aandacht ingeven en een te groot excuus voor Swein's karakter ofzo, maar de tweede helft van het boek is echt veel beter. Zeker wanneer de zonen wat ouder zijn en de verschillende koningen elkaar snel opvolgen.
En die zonen komen verder aan bod in de volgende twee boeken. We gaan ook richting 1066. Ik wil deze trilogie dus zeker nog verder lezen. Deze periode is gewoon super interessant.
In this first book of this trilogy Rochelle recounts the life of Godwine, a very important figure just before 1066. He played a role in the reigns of no fewer than five English kings during a turbulent period. Depending on your perspective, Godwine emerges as a defender of the Saxons or as a power-hungry earl.
Rochelle attempts to write down his life story, and she does so well. Still, I sometimes had some difficulty with the storylines. It’s difficult to tell his whole life story in such a short book. I felt that the enemies-to-lovers storyline with Gytha and the birth of Swein got too much attention and it was provided too easy as an excuse for Swein’s character, but the second half of the book is much better. Especially when the sons are a little older and the different kings quickly succeed each other.
And those sons are discussed further in the next two books – especially Tostig and Harold – as we’re heading towards 1066. So I definitely want to continue reading this trilogy, although I hoped this book would get to me more than it did.
Dutch review:
De niet nobele Godwine komt als bij toeval aan het hof van de Deense King Canute terecht als zijn adviseur. Tijdens één van hun reizen naar Denemarken wordt hij verliefd op Gytha maar die liefde is niet wederzijds. Niet veel verovert Canute de Engelse troon en maakt hij van Godwine Earl of Wessex. Maar Canute heeft verschillende zonen en er zijn ook nog Saksische troonprecedenten, dus wanneer hij sterft is de opvolging onzeker en probeert Godwine de belangen van zijn familie en Wessex te verdedigen.
Rochelle vertelt in dit eerste boek van drie het leven van Godwine, een heel belangrijke persoon vlak voor 1066. Hij speelde een rol in de regering van maar liefst 5 Engelse koningen tijdens een turbulente periode. Afhankelijk van het perspectief dat je hebt komt hij naar voren als een verdediger van de Saksen of als een machtsbeluste earl.
Rochelle doet een poging om zijn leven neer te pennen, en doet dat goed. Toch had ik soms wat moeite met de verhaallijnen. Het gaat soms heel snel om heel zijn leven in zo'n kort boek vertellen. Ik vond vooral de enemies to lovers verhaallijn met Gytha en de geboorte van Swein te veel aandacht ingeven en een te groot excuus voor Swein's karakter ofzo, maar de tweede helft van het boek is echt veel beter. Zeker wanneer de zonen wat ouder zijn en de verschillende koningen elkaar snel opvolgen.
En die zonen komen verder aan bod in de volgende twee boeken. We gaan ook richting 1066. Ik wil deze trilogie dus zeker nog verder lezen. Deze periode is gewoon super interessant.
January 31, 2018
Godwine KingmakerGodwine Kingmaker: Part One of the Last Great Saxon Earls is a real page turner. Tracing the life of Godwine, whose son (history tells us) ultimately becomes king of Anglo-Saxon England for a brief time in 1066, proves to be an ideal way to weave excellent scholarly research with compelling action and believable characters. Mercedes Rochelle contextualizes her academic acumen (see the bibliography at the conclusion of the book) with exciting battles, steamy sex scenes, and moments of crisis—both familial and political. Indeed, the novel shows how the familial IS political and visa-versa.
The reader is immediately pulled in as a shepherd lad, none other than our soon-to-be-powerful hero, meets a potentially threatening Dane. The action never lets up. The novel mainly focuses on Godwine’s perspective, though his wife Gytha proves to be a strong figure. Initially resentful of their marriage, she comes to eagerly welcome him. The flavor of the prose can be seen here: “Gytha watched the royal cavalcade pass under her window, more curious than affectionate; she remembered Harthacnut as a spoiled, willful child. In the old days, wanting to keep up appearances, her brother Ulf had always treated the boy like a king; this was not necessarily a good idea in every case. As she remembered, it led to Ulf’s unfortunate demise at the hand of King Canute.”
The relationship between Ulf, whose end is shocking, tells us more about King Canute’s ruthlessness than Ulf’s inherent virtue. Rochelle makes this the point of her novel in easy-to-follow prose: regardless of one’s character, a person’s fate lays in the hands of those with power, acquired through legal or devious means. The novel ends well before the fateful invasion of the Norman Conquest in 1066, setting the reader up for the subsequent two volumes in the series.
I am voluntarily reviewing this book; many thanks to the author for sharing her copy with me.
The reader is immediately pulled in as a shepherd lad, none other than our soon-to-be-powerful hero, meets a potentially threatening Dane. The action never lets up. The novel mainly focuses on Godwine’s perspective, though his wife Gytha proves to be a strong figure. Initially resentful of their marriage, she comes to eagerly welcome him. The flavor of the prose can be seen here: “Gytha watched the royal cavalcade pass under her window, more curious than affectionate; she remembered Harthacnut as a spoiled, willful child. In the old days, wanting to keep up appearances, her brother Ulf had always treated the boy like a king; this was not necessarily a good idea in every case. As she remembered, it led to Ulf’s unfortunate demise at the hand of King Canute.”
The relationship between Ulf, whose end is shocking, tells us more about King Canute’s ruthlessness than Ulf’s inherent virtue. Rochelle makes this the point of her novel in easy-to-follow prose: regardless of one’s character, a person’s fate lays in the hands of those with power, acquired through legal or devious means. The novel ends well before the fateful invasion of the Norman Conquest in 1066, setting the reader up for the subsequent two volumes in the series.
I am voluntarily reviewing this book; many thanks to the author for sharing her copy with me.
June 24, 2020
This was one of the best historical fiction books about this time period in English History that I’ve read. It’s immediately clear that this author is not only a very good writer but did an exceptional amount of research. I will never look at Godwine the same again. The time period of the Normans and the Saxons and the “ongoing” invasions was given fresh breath.
This book did what any great historical fiction should do: It brought these men and women to life, put flesh on their bones and made you care. The author’s talent lies in imparting so many historical facts without making it read like a research paper.
There is sequel. I look forward to reading it and learning even more.
The narration was very good.
**I was given a free copy of this book in lieu of an honest review
This book did what any great historical fiction should do: It brought these men and women to life, put flesh on their bones and made you care. The author’s talent lies in imparting so many historical facts without making it read like a research paper.
There is sequel. I look forward to reading it and learning even more.
The narration was very good.
**I was given a free copy of this book in lieu of an honest review
June 14, 2018
This was far more than what I anticipated or even felt about it. A time where I was unfamiliar, but instead of a king it was through the eyes of an earl.
A very powerful one who controlled much of the power at the time. This was his story, as his rise and eventual fall. In a way, he wasn’t the one I connected with. But rather all the other characters who had seem to take the spotlight rather than him.
Such as Gytha, his wife who at first spent a long time despising him. For all he was. And the next was his daughter Edith one which surprised me by the end. This was a lot more than just a biography, it was also about his family.
But one thing which made this stand out had been Edward the Confessor, the king that Godwine served and was his foil as well. The man who he put on the throne, but eventually turned against him. Because it was just normal for a king to do so, if he wanted to consolidate power.
It is normal as many rulers have killed their best and brightest, if they have stepped out of line. And here, it makes a lot of sense. A man who had seen bloodshed within his own family and what had been necessary to get it done.
It was the reason why I could buy so much into it, as Edward didn’t just have no reason, it was there from the start and it was something that was solid. At least if he felt differently about the issue.
Overall, this was a tale where the villain shined the most and was an integral part to it. And he is the one which kept my attention above all else. But otherwise, it will have been much lesser than this.
A very powerful one who controlled much of the power at the time. This was his story, as his rise and eventual fall. In a way, he wasn’t the one I connected with. But rather all the other characters who had seem to take the spotlight rather than him.
Such as Gytha, his wife who at first spent a long time despising him. For all he was. And the next was his daughter Edith one which surprised me by the end. This was a lot more than just a biography, it was also about his family.
But one thing which made this stand out had been Edward the Confessor, the king that Godwine served and was his foil as well. The man who he put on the throne, but eventually turned against him. Because it was just normal for a king to do so, if he wanted to consolidate power.
It is normal as many rulers have killed their best and brightest, if they have stepped out of line. And here, it makes a lot of sense. A man who had seen bloodshed within his own family and what had been necessary to get it done.
It was the reason why I could buy so much into it, as Edward didn’t just have no reason, it was there from the start and it was something that was solid. At least if he felt differently about the issue.
Overall, this was a tale where the villain shined the most and was an integral part to it. And he is the one which kept my attention above all else. But otherwise, it will have been much lesser than this.
January 23, 2017
Historical Fiction- set in the early 11thc, follows the story of Godwine whose rise to power in the first half of the century is noted for its extraordinary success.
The story unfolds as Godwine, a shepherd meets a Danish Jarl, Ulf, who has somehow lost his way after a great battle against the English. Godwine, takes him to his father's home and is convinced to join Ulf's warband as he helps him find his way back to his lord Cnut.
Rochelle's tale of a man's rise to power in the 11thc took a while to pique my interest. At first its a little slow and I struggled to comprehend that the author had chosen to follow the legend that Godwine was a sheep herder rather than the son of an important seafaring thegn of Sussex. But I persevered, because this is my favourite period of history and of course I wanted to see how things developed in Rochelle's version.
It wasn't until about half way through when my interest was caught and Godwine, who had until now failed to gain my empathy, starts to come into his own. In the beginning of the story, he is a shy boy, with no experience amongst warriors. They train him to be like them, and because he is a Saxon, he is deemed to have knowledge and uses for the Danes. Suddenly he catches the interest of the man who would be England's king, Cnut and elevated in status amongst Cnut's Danes. It takes time, though, for Godwine to find his backbone, and when he is given Jarl Ulf's difficult sister, Gytha, for his wife, a woman he has admired for some time, his back bone has to grow quickly. Gytha is none to keen to marry Godwine, for she sees herself above him in status and although she is not impervious to his obvious handsome attributes, she is not particularly enamoured with becoming his wife. Even when Godwin manages to get her with child, she is melodramatic and behaves as if her life is in ruins. The child is born, a son called Swegn, and Gytha is unable to bond with the baby, leaving Godwin to see to the care of the child.
What I liked most about this book is the way that the author treats the well known storyline of Swegn and his anti-social behaviour. Swegn, the troubled, misunderstood, unloved by his mother, eldest of the Godwinsons, is presented far more sensitively than any other authors have done that I know of. All the aspects of Swegn's behaviour and his deeds as told to us by the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, are explained in Rochelle's plausible interpretation of them. Swegn just doesn't behave badly, Rochelle makes sure that we know why and she certainly has a talent for making historical characters come alive.
All in all, the first in the series about the Last of the Great Saxon Earls, is an interesting read and gives a good insight into the politics and events of the time. Rochelle penchant for this era shines through in her research and it is only the living history side of things that is lacking in detail.
The story unfolds as Godwine, a shepherd meets a Danish Jarl, Ulf, who has somehow lost his way after a great battle against the English. Godwine, takes him to his father's home and is convinced to join Ulf's warband as he helps him find his way back to his lord Cnut.
Rochelle's tale of a man's rise to power in the 11thc took a while to pique my interest. At first its a little slow and I struggled to comprehend that the author had chosen to follow the legend that Godwine was a sheep herder rather than the son of an important seafaring thegn of Sussex. But I persevered, because this is my favourite period of history and of course I wanted to see how things developed in Rochelle's version.
It wasn't until about half way through when my interest was caught and Godwine, who had until now failed to gain my empathy, starts to come into his own. In the beginning of the story, he is a shy boy, with no experience amongst warriors. They train him to be like them, and because he is a Saxon, he is deemed to have knowledge and uses for the Danes. Suddenly he catches the interest of the man who would be England's king, Cnut and elevated in status amongst Cnut's Danes. It takes time, though, for Godwine to find his backbone, and when he is given Jarl Ulf's difficult sister, Gytha, for his wife, a woman he has admired for some time, his back bone has to grow quickly. Gytha is none to keen to marry Godwine, for she sees herself above him in status and although she is not impervious to his obvious handsome attributes, she is not particularly enamoured with becoming his wife. Even when Godwin manages to get her with child, she is melodramatic and behaves as if her life is in ruins. The child is born, a son called Swegn, and Gytha is unable to bond with the baby, leaving Godwin to see to the care of the child.
What I liked most about this book is the way that the author treats the well known storyline of Swegn and his anti-social behaviour. Swegn, the troubled, misunderstood, unloved by his mother, eldest of the Godwinsons, is presented far more sensitively than any other authors have done that I know of. All the aspects of Swegn's behaviour and his deeds as told to us by the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, are explained in Rochelle's plausible interpretation of them. Swegn just doesn't behave badly, Rochelle makes sure that we know why and she certainly has a talent for making historical characters come alive.
All in all, the first in the series about the Last of the Great Saxon Earls, is an interesting read and gives a good insight into the politics and events of the time. Rochelle penchant for this era shines through in her research and it is only the living history side of things that is lacking in detail.
November 10, 2015
I enjoyed this story of the life of Harold II's father, Godwine, the Earl of Wessex. As one of the most powerful men in England during the reigns of Cnut, his sons, and Edward the Confessor, Godwine has long deserved more attention. This novel nicely presents Godwine's rise to power, his influence with Cnut and within the kingdom, and sets the stage for what happens in England after the great earl's death (i.e., the family fault lines that lead to the Norman conquest). As much English history as I know, this story sharpened my understanding of this pivotal period.
There were a few things I would have liked in the book. First would have been a map or two of England, and maybe Denmark since part of the story takes place there. Another would have been perhaps a listing of the year(s) when each chapter occurs - I could usually figure it out, but sometimes there were many years between chapters; dates would have helped. Finally, these days most historical fiction comes with an author's afterword. It isn't always necessary but I find it interesting to know some of the story behind the story - what draws an author to a time and place.
There were a few things I would have liked in the book. First would have been a map or two of England, and maybe Denmark since part of the story takes place there. Another would have been perhaps a listing of the year(s) when each chapter occurs - I could usually figure it out, but sometimes there were many years between chapters; dates would have helped. Finally, these days most historical fiction comes with an author's afterword. It isn't always necessary but I find it interesting to know some of the story behind the story - what draws an author to a time and place.
to-check-out
April 22, 2015Edmund Ironside, Hero or Fool? Guest Post + Giveaway @ Let Them Read Books!
April 1, 2017
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
" the author has obviously taken a lot of trouble with the research "
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
" the author has obviously taken a lot of trouble with the research "
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
April 30, 2023
I've wanted to read Mercedes Rochelle's novels for a while, and finally I had the chance. And I'm glad I did, as I discovered another fascinating series to get into.
Godwine Kingmaker is the first in her trilogy about Earl Godwine and his sons, culminating in Harold becoming the last Anglo-Saxon King of England before Duke William of Normandy defeated him in battle. The rest is, as they say, history...
The novel begins with a young Godwine helping a Danish jarl who'd lost his way in a forest. Ulf had been separated from his men following a skirmish. The suspicious Dane had no choice but to trust the teenager. Swiftly, Godwine and his father, himself out of favour with the nobles, realise that the boy's life was now in danger as he'd been helping an enemy.
That was how young Godwine ended up in the service of Jarl Ulf. With the boy's help, they found the Danish King Canute, and joined Ulf's men again.
Soon, Godwine had no choice but to take part in battles against fellow Anglo-Saxons. An ambitious youth, he realised that the Danes were favoured, but a failed attack on London leads to a withdrawal of the Danes, and Ulf's return to his homeland, Godwine in tow.
Through Ulf, and then Canute, the young man quickly learns about political schemes and plots, and how to seek your own advantage. When Ulf falls foul of Canute and is branded a traitor, Godwine has to make a vital choice – one that secures his position at Canute's court.
I liked Ms Rochelle's portrayal of Godwine. A young man who took his chances whenever he could, his selfishness and ruthlessness becomes apparent fairly early on. Through the machinations at court, and the petty jealousies between Canute's followers, he learns swiftly where the wind blows.
Godwine is not a particularly likeable character, though the author doesn't paint him like an ogre either. He's a quick thinker, who recognises how situations arise, and how they might pan out. Perhaps on a par with a modern-day spin doctor, Godwine uses his skills cleverly to his own advantage, without appearing too obvious.
There is some head-hopping in the narrative which can be confusing at times, but it's not distracting from the riveting plot. The fast pace and multitude of events make for a gripping read.
The author's historical research is impeccable, which makes the setting and characters feel realistic. Godwine Kingmaker really pulls readers into a fascinating tale of 11th century politics, with all their dangers and schemes.
A highly recommended read!
Note: I received a free ebook copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
Godwine Kingmaker is the first in her trilogy about Earl Godwine and his sons, culminating in Harold becoming the last Anglo-Saxon King of England before Duke William of Normandy defeated him in battle. The rest is, as they say, history...
The novel begins with a young Godwine helping a Danish jarl who'd lost his way in a forest. Ulf had been separated from his men following a skirmish. The suspicious Dane had no choice but to trust the teenager. Swiftly, Godwine and his father, himself out of favour with the nobles, realise that the boy's life was now in danger as he'd been helping an enemy.
That was how young Godwine ended up in the service of Jarl Ulf. With the boy's help, they found the Danish King Canute, and joined Ulf's men again.
Soon, Godwine had no choice but to take part in battles against fellow Anglo-Saxons. An ambitious youth, he realised that the Danes were favoured, but a failed attack on London leads to a withdrawal of the Danes, and Ulf's return to his homeland, Godwine in tow.
Through Ulf, and then Canute, the young man quickly learns about political schemes and plots, and how to seek your own advantage. When Ulf falls foul of Canute and is branded a traitor, Godwine has to make a vital choice – one that secures his position at Canute's court.
I liked Ms Rochelle's portrayal of Godwine. A young man who took his chances whenever he could, his selfishness and ruthlessness becomes apparent fairly early on. Through the machinations at court, and the petty jealousies between Canute's followers, he learns swiftly where the wind blows.
Godwine is not a particularly likeable character, though the author doesn't paint him like an ogre either. He's a quick thinker, who recognises how situations arise, and how they might pan out. Perhaps on a par with a modern-day spin doctor, Godwine uses his skills cleverly to his own advantage, without appearing too obvious.
There is some head-hopping in the narrative which can be confusing at times, but it's not distracting from the riveting plot. The fast pace and multitude of events make for a gripping read.
The author's historical research is impeccable, which makes the setting and characters feel realistic. Godwine Kingmaker really pulls readers into a fascinating tale of 11th century politics, with all their dangers and schemes.
A highly recommended read!
Note: I received a free ebook copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
February 18, 2023
I'm writing this review for the entire three-book series:
I first “met” Earl Godwine in Helen Hollick’s exquisite fictional account of Queen Emma, The Forever Queen. But the earl and his sons were shadowy figures on the edges of my awareness as I continued to explore more pre-Norman historical fiction. Mercedes Rochelle has knit all the puzzle pieces together marvelously in her three-volume series, The Last Great Saxon Earls.
As the author notes in her opening, it is always the victors who record and pass down the history. The Godwine family, ultimately defeated by William the Conqueror in 1066, have nearly faded into obscurity. Major dates are known – births, deaths, even some marriages – as are their various titles: earldoms, and eventually kingship, for son Harold, briefly in 1066. But the missing details are fertile ground for an author of fiction, and Rochelle fills in the blanks with compelling and engaging motives and actions.
How did Earl Godwine first meet Canute and fall into his favor? Why was there so much conflict between Earl Godwine’s sons Harold and Tostig? Was the Earl truly responsible for the death of Æthling Alfred, Emma’s son by Æthlred the Unready? What was the ultimate fate of the earl’s youngest son, Wulfnoth, a hostage in Normandy for decades?
No one knows the true answer to any of these questions. I do suspect the author’s experience as an actor in Living History has contributed to her ability to place herself – and hence us, as readers – so convincingly in both the inner and outer worlds of these characters from over a millennium ago. It’s a challenge to create a page-turner when the outcome of so many events is already known, but Rochelle’s account has succeeded. I found myself rooting for characters along the way in spite of knowing their ultimate fate, a testament to her ability to evoke empathy for characters long vilified as traitors, at worst, or simply losers, at best.
Five stars, highly recommend.
I first “met” Earl Godwine in Helen Hollick’s exquisite fictional account of Queen Emma, The Forever Queen. But the earl and his sons were shadowy figures on the edges of my awareness as I continued to explore more pre-Norman historical fiction. Mercedes Rochelle has knit all the puzzle pieces together marvelously in her three-volume series, The Last Great Saxon Earls.
As the author notes in her opening, it is always the victors who record and pass down the history. The Godwine family, ultimately defeated by William the Conqueror in 1066, have nearly faded into obscurity. Major dates are known – births, deaths, even some marriages – as are their various titles: earldoms, and eventually kingship, for son Harold, briefly in 1066. But the missing details are fertile ground for an author of fiction, and Rochelle fills in the blanks with compelling and engaging motives and actions.
How did Earl Godwine first meet Canute and fall into his favor? Why was there so much conflict between Earl Godwine’s sons Harold and Tostig? Was the Earl truly responsible for the death of Æthling Alfred, Emma’s son by Æthlred the Unready? What was the ultimate fate of the earl’s youngest son, Wulfnoth, a hostage in Normandy for decades?
No one knows the true answer to any of these questions. I do suspect the author’s experience as an actor in Living History has contributed to her ability to place herself – and hence us, as readers – so convincingly in both the inner and outer worlds of these characters from over a millennium ago. It’s a challenge to create a page-turner when the outcome of so many events is already known, but Rochelle’s account has succeeded. I found myself rooting for characters along the way in spite of knowing their ultimate fate, a testament to her ability to evoke empathy for characters long vilified as traitors, at worst, or simply losers, at best.
Five stars, highly recommend.
July 13, 2018
Mrs. Rochelle truly has a talent for writing historical fiction and is an author I would love to see again. I am very intrigued by her writing style.
I admire the work historical authors have to do in order to achieve their body of work and make the story come alive. So much research is required with a good balance of imagination and creativity. I guess every writer has to know their stuff and do the research no matter what kind of story they are putting to pen; however, I think historical fiction requires that extra mile. There is so much I loved about this book.
I think it would be best to mention the outright brilliance and accuracy of the historical times this takes place in. I truly felt immersed and in Anglo-Saxon England during some very interesting events. I really give an A+ to Mrs. Rochelle for the history rich story she created. It is well done and you can definitely tell that a lot of time went into shaping this book.
I can easily say that Godwine is hands down my favorite part of the story. The main character has it all and is just absolutely unintentionally adorable. In the beginning of the book readers get to see a good natured young man who is eager to make a name for himself and bring his family the honor they have lost. He meets a fellow who has rank and can give him a position. He rescues this man and incurs favor.
This leads to a long road of events that allows Godwine to rise in station and rank. It is just plain cute how you see this occurs. Thoroughly an enjoyable read that I would recommend.
I admire the work historical authors have to do in order to achieve their body of work and make the story come alive. So much research is required with a good balance of imagination and creativity. I guess every writer has to know their stuff and do the research no matter what kind of story they are putting to pen; however, I think historical fiction requires that extra mile. There is so much I loved about this book.
I think it would be best to mention the outright brilliance and accuracy of the historical times this takes place in. I truly felt immersed and in Anglo-Saxon England during some very interesting events. I really give an A+ to Mrs. Rochelle for the history rich story she created. It is well done and you can definitely tell that a lot of time went into shaping this book.
I can easily say that Godwine is hands down my favorite part of the story. The main character has it all and is just absolutely unintentionally adorable. In the beginning of the book readers get to see a good natured young man who is eager to make a name for himself and bring his family the honor they have lost. He meets a fellow who has rank and can give him a position. He rescues this man and incurs favor.
This leads to a long road of events that allows Godwine to rise in station and rank. It is just plain cute how you see this occurs. Thoroughly an enjoyable read that I would recommend.
January 7, 2018
Godwine has risen from humble beginnings to become one of the most powerful men in England, but with power comes jealousy.
Godwine finds a wandering Dane in the woods and taking him back to his house, they feed the man. Come to find out he is a Jarl for the Danes. Godwine ends up leaving with the Jarl, taking him back to his own ships, and then sailing away with them. As he watches England fade into the distance he wonders where his future will lead.
Coming into manhood in the service of the Danish king, he grows into positions of power. Serving through the kingdoms of FOUR kings, he incurs the wrath of Edward. Fleeing England, he waits for the correct timing to return, and make his position clear. He is hoping to regain his lost earldom, correct the wrongdoings in the nation, and rid the nation of the unwanted Norman advisors which are turning the king down the wrong path.
I really enjoyed this read, it was fantastic and kept me hooked from start to finish. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
Godwine finds a wandering Dane in the woods and taking him back to his house, they feed the man. Come to find out he is a Jarl for the Danes. Godwine ends up leaving with the Jarl, taking him back to his own ships, and then sailing away with them. As he watches England fade into the distance he wonders where his future will lead.
Coming into manhood in the service of the Danish king, he grows into positions of power. Serving through the kingdoms of FOUR kings, he incurs the wrath of Edward. Fleeing England, he waits for the correct timing to return, and make his position clear. He is hoping to regain his lost earldom, correct the wrongdoings in the nation, and rid the nation of the unwanted Norman advisors which are turning the king down the wrong path.
I really enjoyed this read, it was fantastic and kept me hooked from start to finish. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
May 24, 2019
Godwine Kingmaker is a page-turning, painstakingly-researched wallop of a novel that illuminates the shady era of British history from 1016-1066 as the coveted isle is torn back and forth between Saxon, Danish, and eventually, to Norman rule.
Godwine is a complex and conflicted character, as is his reluctant and willful Danish bride, Gytha. Watching their relationship twist and turn along with Godwine's fate as he deals with ever more treacherous matters of state kept me turning pages. Rochelle knew just when to take a break from the political drama and delve into the more personal aspects of Godwine's story, giving us a believable glimpse into what his marriage and family life might have been like and deepening our pathos towards him and those he loves.
An all-around engaging read!
Godwine is a complex and conflicted character, as is his reluctant and willful Danish bride, Gytha. Watching their relationship twist and turn along with Godwine's fate as he deals with ever more treacherous matters of state kept me turning pages. Rochelle knew just when to take a break from the political drama and delve into the more personal aspects of Godwine's story, giving us a believable glimpse into what his marriage and family life might have been like and deepening our pathos towards him and those he loves.
An all-around engaging read!
October 4, 2017
Historical fiction at its best! Author, Mercedes Rochelle, has researched the characters in this novel extensively, as evidenced by the bibliographies included at the end of each chapter. This has resulted in a rich cast of characters to which one can become easily connected. This is the story of an Englishman, Godwine, who finds his way to an earldom, after being raised by the Dane, Canute the Great. Godwine's goal is to see one of his son's seated on the throne of England. In the process, Godwine endures many struggles, including a clash with his son-in-law, King Edward (the Confessor). If you enjoy reading books about 11th century Britain, you'd enjoy this novel.
February 1, 2019
Kind of what I was expecting to read. I thought it was a biography, and it is, but it is also historical fiction. It's from a time period I enjoy reading about, too, so not a total waste for me. There are a few individuals, powerful individuals, who have helped get kings on to thrones in history. I would guess an armchair historian who enjoys early Anglo-Saxon history will enjoy this book more so than the general reader. Good book!
I received a Kindle ARC from Netgalley in exchange fair a fair review.
I received a Kindle ARC from Netgalley in exchange fair a fair review.
February 1, 2018
Godwine Kingmaker is part 1 of The Last Great Saxon Earls trilogy. From a shy young sheep herder and son of a disgraced thegn to having the King’s ear, this well-researched historical fiction follows Godwine’s rise to power during King Canute’s reign. The novel is filled with a tightly woven tale filled with wonderful descriptions. The characters, the political intrigue, the military campaigns are all well-detailed. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 6, 2020
The Last Great Saxon Earls is phenomenal! I felt fully transported back to the middle ages through great narration and storytelling. The story of how Godwine came to power favored by Canute the King and his marriage to Gytha was exceptional. My favorite part was Godwine and Gytha’s early struggles and breakthrough in their marriage. Narrator Kevin E. Green captures it perfectly!
February 22, 2018
Though thrown at first by the omniscient VP, this turned out to be good read with a strong plot (helped by the realities of history), and sensitive treatment, particularly regards Godwine's marriage, and his relationship with his sons. I'd recommend.
January 31, 2018
Great read! Loved the character development and seamless integration into a super cool historical period. I enjoyed this from beginning to end. Highly recommend.
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