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Circle of Ceridwen Saga #2
Ceridwen of Kilton
Ninth-century Saxon England crumbles under the onslaught of a relentless foe - the Danish Vikings. Ceridwen, a young woman with divided loyalties, watches as the peace and plenty she enjoys at the Saxon stronghold of Kilton gives way to wary watchfulness. Her dearest friend, Ælfwyn, sold in marriage to a Dane in a desperate bid for peace, travels to Kilton and recounts the events that befell the fortress of Four Stones in captured Lindisse. But Ceridwen is also confronted by Sidroc, the Dane she ran from, and cannot forget. Ceridwen's life revolves around her beloved husband Gyric, cruelly maimed by the Danish foe, rendered now unfit for battle and seemingly, for happiness. At the heart of Kilton is Gyric's brother Godwin, the young lord who struggles both against the Danish invaders and an unthinkable desire. Growing tensions between the brothers mirror the escalating threat to the Saxons from the Danes. Cadmar the warrior-monk lends his wisdom and his warrior's arm to the fight. The Fate of all at Kilton hangs in the balance at a single terrifying battle, as the Danes attempt to extinguish it and conquer the whole people who would be soon known as The English...
Meticulously researched and thrillingly brought to life, here is Ceridwen of Kilton
Audible Audio
First published September 26, 2012
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893 people want to read
About the author
Octavia Randolph
24 books601 followersI write the kind of book I want to read myself. I write about history as a way to better understand my own times. I write about people who are far better, and (I hope) far worse than myself. And beautiful objects inspire me: the hand-carved combs, skilfully wrought swords, and gemmed goblets of the world of The Circle of Ceridwen Saga. Almost everything interests me; I've studied Anglo-Saxon and Norse runes, and learnt to spin with a drop spindle. My path has led to extensive on-site research in England, Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, and Gotland - some of the most wonderful places on Earth. In addition to the Circle Saga, I've written the novella Ride, a retelling of the story of Lady Godiva, and The Tale of Melkorka, based on the Icelandic Sagas. I've been the fortunate recipient of fellowships at the MacDowell Colony, Ledig House International, and Byrdcliffe.
Hearing from readers is a special pleasure and I always answer my letters. So write to me! www.octavia.net Author photo by Barbara Simundza
Hearing from readers is a special pleasure and I always answer my letters. So write to me! www.octavia.net Author photo by Barbara Simundza
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
February 27, 2023
4,0, ✨✨✨
November 16, 2016
**3.5**
I should preface this with saying that I knew I was not going to love this. I wanted Ceridwen to end up with Sidroc and I knew that this book was more about Ceridwen and her life at Kilton (aka without Sidroc) and her relationship with Gyric and Godwin. I also knew I needed to read this one if I wanted to get to Ceridwen and Sidroc together (based on the synopses of #3 and #4). So I viewed this book as a necessary stepping stone and I just hoped I woulnd't hate it or get bored. Luckily I did still enjoy it for the most part. And the detractors were't exactly what I had expected them to be.
This author paints a vivid picture of life at this time so that you can see it in your mind. I understood the uncertainty and constant knife's edge that people balanced on; how difficult communication was and how you could go weeks, months or even years without word from someone and knowing whether they lived; how the loss of a cow could mean the difference for simple crofter between being comfortably off and starvation. It is clear the author has an expert grasp of the time period and for that alone, this book gets 3 stars.
Now for the issues: I felt like Ceridwen's thoughts and feelings were often missing in her interactions with the men in her life. Some were explained later, but a lot was left to reader conjecture. When Sidroc professes his love for her she says very little and we aren't told how she feels about his declaration. In fact, she gives away nothing in expression or thought. In one chapter Ceridwen rejects Godwin's desire for her (for obvious reasons), but then in the next chapter (1-2 years later) Ceridwen suddenly embraces it and agrees to lay with him and we're given no indication of why she's had this change in feeling until much later. My assumption at the time to explain this turned out, much later, to be off. I understood Godwin's reasoning, I understood the reason for Gyric's consent, but it's never explicitly understood why Ceridwen agreed in the first place. Again, much later some holes were filled in, but I would have appreciated something at the time.
And since we're on Ceridwen and Godwin's relationship let's also talk about when they get together. That was a little weird. I can understand Gyric consenting for Godwin to get Ceridwen with child so he can have an heir. What I cannot accept was for everything to go down with Gyric in bed with them! It left me confused, and also a little heartbroken.
And then, of course, there wasn't enough Sidroc who I've always thought Ceridwen should end up with. They have so much chemistry and Gyric has none. But of course this was expected. Now I can't wait to start the next one.
I should preface this with saying that I knew I was not going to love this. I wanted Ceridwen to end up with Sidroc and I knew that this book was more about Ceridwen and her life at Kilton (aka without Sidroc) and her relationship with Gyric and Godwin. I also knew I needed to read this one if I wanted to get to Ceridwen and Sidroc together (based on the synopses of #3 and #4). So I viewed this book as a necessary stepping stone and I just hoped I woulnd't hate it or get bored. Luckily I did still enjoy it for the most part. And the detractors were't exactly what I had expected them to be.
This author paints a vivid picture of life at this time so that you can see it in your mind. I understood the uncertainty and constant knife's edge that people balanced on; how difficult communication was and how you could go weeks, months or even years without word from someone and knowing whether they lived; how the loss of a cow could mean the difference for simple crofter between being comfortably off and starvation. It is clear the author has an expert grasp of the time period and for that alone, this book gets 3 stars.
Now for the issues: I felt like Ceridwen's thoughts and feelings were often missing in her interactions with the men in her life. Some were explained later, but a lot was left to reader conjecture. When Sidroc professes his love for her she says very little and we aren't told how she feels about his declaration. In fact, she gives away nothing in expression or thought. In one chapter Ceridwen rejects Godwin's desire for her (for obvious reasons), but then in the next chapter (1-2 years later) Ceridwen suddenly embraces it and agrees to lay with him and we're given no indication of why she's had this change in feeling until much later. My assumption at the time to explain this turned out, much later, to be off. I understood Godwin's reasoning, I understood the reason for Gyric's consent, but it's never explicitly understood why Ceridwen agreed in the first place. Again, much later some holes were filled in, but I would have appreciated something at the time.
And since we're on Ceridwen and Godwin's relationship let's also talk about when they get together. That was a little weird. I can understand Gyric consenting for Godwin to get Ceridwen with child so he can have an heir. What I cannot accept was for everything to go down with Gyric in bed with them! It left me confused, and also a little heartbroken.
And then, of course, there wasn't enough Sidroc who I've always thought Ceridwen should end up with. They have so much chemistry and Gyric has none. But of course this was expected. Now I can't wait to start the next one.
August 3, 2017
‘There is power in words, and power is the root of fear; and I have cause to fear for what I am about to tell.’
This is the second book in the Circle of Ceridwen series, and picks up Ceridwen’s story where the first book ended. Ceridwen lives at Kilton with her husband Gyric and his family (you need to read the books in sequence to fully appreciate the story). The Vikings have continued their onslaught on Anglo-Saxon Britain, but not all battles have gone their way. Ceridwen’s friend, Ælfwyn, travels to Kilton, bringing with her elements of Ceridwen’s past.
But Ceridwen’s past is a relatively small part of this tale. There are tensions between her husband Gyric and his brother Godwin, and Ceridwen finds herself at the centre. Gyric himself seems unable to come to terms with his blindness, made especially difficult as the threat from the Vikings continues to grow.
There are a few different elements to this story and while I found a couple of aspects difficult to accept (no spoilers here), I enjoyed the story enough to immediately purchase the third book. Ms Randolph brings Ceridwen to life in a way which has me wanting to read more about her life, the times in which she lived and the choices she made.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
This is the second book in the Circle of Ceridwen series, and picks up Ceridwen’s story where the first book ended. Ceridwen lives at Kilton with her husband Gyric and his family (you need to read the books in sequence to fully appreciate the story). The Vikings have continued their onslaught on Anglo-Saxon Britain, but not all battles have gone their way. Ceridwen’s friend, Ælfwyn, travels to Kilton, bringing with her elements of Ceridwen’s past.
But Ceridwen’s past is a relatively small part of this tale. There are tensions between her husband Gyric and his brother Godwin, and Ceridwen finds herself at the centre. Gyric himself seems unable to come to terms with his blindness, made especially difficult as the threat from the Vikings continues to grow.
There are a few different elements to this story and while I found a couple of aspects difficult to accept (no spoilers here), I enjoyed the story enough to immediately purchase the third book. Ms Randolph brings Ceridwen to life in a way which has me wanting to read more about her life, the times in which she lived and the choices she made.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
January 7, 2020
I would give this book 4&1/2 stars if I could. This is the second book in the Circle of Ceridwen saga. It is as good as the first. It is shorter and faster paced. The story picks up shortly after the first book ends. Ceridwen and her husband Gyric are living at Kilton with his family. All starts well but attacks by the Danes and a dangerous obsession get in the way. I like the characters in these books and their faults and fine points. The history is fascinating and well-researched. There are a few startling developments. I would recommend this book to historical fans or anyone who likes reading a good saga.
October 19, 2025
So often, a series loses its charm as it expands, but that doesn’t happen here. Quite the contrary. It was within the last two years that I read the first eight books back to back. As more books were introduced to the series, it only increased my enjoyment. Each book is beautifully written and developed making it an auto buy for me.
With so many Viking type stories available, one can easily assume this would be one and the same. However, these books are well-researched and detailed with particular insight into the Viking culture.
The brutality and violence are known characteristics, but this series also sheds light on their humanity. Along with the need and drive for something better, this is a true example of how our struggles break us or make us stronger. The ambition and enterprising ways are very human in their nature. The difference is theirs is on full unapologetic display.
With so many Viking type stories available, one can easily assume this would be one and the same. However, these books are well-researched and detailed with particular insight into the Viking culture.
The brutality and violence are known characteristics, but this series also sheds light on their humanity. Along with the need and drive for something better, this is a true example of how our struggles break us or make us stronger. The ambition and enterprising ways are very human in their nature. The difference is theirs is on full unapologetic display.
October 4, 2016
Unfortunately I did not write my review right after I finished this book and in fact, just finished #4 and awaiting #5 to get here. I try not to do spoilers in my reviews, and it is difficult not to do so. This book was somewhat troubling to me in the decisions Ceridwen made, but then again how can I put myself in the position of a 9th century young woman. Ceridwen is married to Gyric and loves him deeply and is living in comfort at Kilton with him and their son. Gyric was blinded by the Danes who captured him in the first book and thus can no longer fight or do any more than be an advisor to his brother Godwin. Although he has never approached her, Godwin has a strong forbidden desire for Ceridwen. His wife had moved to a convent although has not taken vows and has been unable to bear children and thus Godwin does not have an heir. There is a great deal more to this, but I will not reveal it here. It's Ceridwen's story to tell....
This author writes so that the reader feels they are a part of the action and when Kilton is attacked by a band of Danes, the fight those in the castle put up, including Ceridwen and Gyric both, is amazing and frightening. Godwin and his men are not there, so it is a handful of brave individuals battling for their lives and I felt like I was there.
This book takes place during the time when the Danish invaders finally come for a final battle to capture that last kingdom of the Saxons left in Britain. There is a terrible battle and much conflict, but the Saxons hold on to defeat the Danes and a peace is made with them. This is a big part of the story of Alfred the Great who threads in and out of this story, but in this book we don't read the details of the battles, but hear of them told.
After the peace is made, the Danes come to Kilton where King Alfred and King Guthrum visit and Ceridwen again finds herself face to face with Sidroc. He is the Dane who professed to love her forever when she lived with her best friend, wife of the Yrlng who Sidroc was pledged to. There is a bond of sorts between them, and she confides her great secrets to him, but she is ever Garic's wife. Her dear friend's husband has been killed and she is now married to Sidroc and they have two children.
After the first book I wanted to read this one but was not as drawn into it as I became after this second book. Now these are my friends and I am fascinated with the lives they led and this period of time. The author has researched history and made everything come alive. I have thought a few times that a woman probably will like these books better than a man unless he is very into history. There is a lot of information about food and how it is prepared, spinning and weaving, and just how they survived, how they dressed, and how they thought. Of course it is written as Ceridwen's story so we see it from her view. I was totally on board to finish this series after this book and they only get better from here.
This author writes so that the reader feels they are a part of the action and when Kilton is attacked by a band of Danes, the fight those in the castle put up, including Ceridwen and Gyric both, is amazing and frightening. Godwin and his men are not there, so it is a handful of brave individuals battling for their lives and I felt like I was there.
This book takes place during the time when the Danish invaders finally come for a final battle to capture that last kingdom of the Saxons left in Britain. There is a terrible battle and much conflict, but the Saxons hold on to defeat the Danes and a peace is made with them. This is a big part of the story of Alfred the Great who threads in and out of this story, but in this book we don't read the details of the battles, but hear of them told.
After the peace is made, the Danes come to Kilton where King Alfred and King Guthrum visit and Ceridwen again finds herself face to face with Sidroc. He is the Dane who professed to love her forever when she lived with her best friend, wife of the Yrlng who Sidroc was pledged to. There is a bond of sorts between them, and she confides her great secrets to him, but she is ever Garic's wife. Her dear friend's husband has been killed and she is now married to Sidroc and they have two children.
After the first book I wanted to read this one but was not as drawn into it as I became after this second book. Now these are my friends and I am fascinated with the lives they led and this period of time. The author has researched history and made everything come alive. I have thought a few times that a woman probably will like these books better than a man unless he is very into history. There is a lot of information about food and how it is prepared, spinning and weaving, and just how they survived, how they dressed, and how they thought. Of course it is written as Ceridwen's story so we see it from her view. I was totally on board to finish this series after this book and they only get better from here.
January 31, 2018
I was a bit disappointed when I picked this book up from the library as it is less than half the length of the previous book. How could such a short book be a worthy sequel to such a great story? It turned out to be wonderful. This installment finds Ceridwen living a prosperous life at the stronghold of her husband's family in 9th Century Wessex. There is peace for the time being with the Danish invaders, but all is not well in Ceridwen's life. Her husband Gyric, blinded by the Danes in the previous book, struggles with feelings of uselessness, and Ceridwen is torn between her feelings for him, and for his brother Godwin, who represents what her husband once was. Her old admirer, the Dane Sidroc, has also reappeared in her life. The short lived peace is soon shattered, and what follows is a page turner. I was actually late for work this morning, as I couldn't leave until I knew my 9th Century friends were going to be ok. There are so many wonderful characters in these books, and the world the author has created feels so real, although this time period is so long ago that it can only be speculation. I will be ordering the next book soon as I can't wait to see what happens next.
August 23, 2014
Ceridwen of Kilton was a great sequel to the Circle of Ceridwen and I greatly enjoyed reading both.I hope that the next two in the series will be available on KindleUnlimited also so I can snatch them right up.
Pre Conquest England in the 9th century was important and pivotal,and the author shone a light on those times that seems plausible and believable, utilizing all available research.
The Anglo Saxon Chronicle says this for AD 878 "In the Easter of this year King Alfred with his little force raised a work at Athelney; from which he assailed the army, assisted by that part of Somersetshire which was nighest to it. Then the army gave him hostages with many oaths, that they would go out of his kingdom"
When I read the preface of the next volume, the invaders are puzzling. The Chronicle speaks of pirates the next year, was that them? I must try to obtain that volume.
Recommended to all lovers of Medieval and early Medieval history.
Pre Conquest England in the 9th century was important and pivotal,and the author shone a light on those times that seems plausible and believable, utilizing all available research.
The Anglo Saxon Chronicle says this for AD 878 "In the Easter of this year King Alfred with his little force raised a work at Athelney; from which he assailed the army, assisted by that part of Somersetshire which was nighest to it. Then the army gave him hostages with many oaths, that they would go out of his kingdom"
When I read the preface of the next volume, the invaders are puzzling. The Chronicle speaks of pirates the next year, was that them? I must try to obtain that volume.
Recommended to all lovers of Medieval and early Medieval history.
January 25, 2017
Interesting continuance of the story. Audio is great though I listened at faster speed because she talks so slow. My biggest dilemma now is, continue on or await the next audio? Hmmm.
March 30, 2022
3.5 Team Sidroc.
December 21, 2020
Again, what an amazing journey this book has been. Loved every line. So many unexpected plot twists and turns of events. Can this get any better? Can't wait to read on in the saga...
February 18, 2019
The second book in this series continues the life of Ceridwen, as she takes her place at Kilton as Gyric’s wife. She is accepted by his father and mother with joy, as the savior of their younger son from death at the hands of the Danes. But all is not well at the beautiful hall on the edge of the cliffs overlooking the sea. Gyric struggles to come to terms with his blindness and his inability to fight at the side of his brother, Godwin, as the Vikings continue to invade the country, gaining more and more land. Godwin, heir to Kilton with all its riches, is married to Edgyth, who remains childless after many miscarriages. Godwin desires Ceridwen, a forbidden union given that she is his brother’s wife. Complicating the issue is the fact that she is also attracted to him; initially finding in him a mirror of Gyric before his blindness.
Then, of course, there is the re-appearance of Sidroc into her life. He still holds that “we are the same” and continues to name her his “shield-maiden”. Since their initial meeting when she was fifteen, he has maintained the belief that they are meant to be together, but never forced her to submit to his will. What a hero!
Will Ceridwen continue to reject his advances? I shall have to purchase the next in the series immediately in order to find out.
A compelling and well researched series. Recommended to lovers of historical stories, narrated from a female viewpoint.
Then, of course, there is the re-appearance of Sidroc into her life. He still holds that “we are the same” and continues to name her his “shield-maiden”. Since their initial meeting when she was fifteen, he has maintained the belief that they are meant to be together, but never forced her to submit to his will. What a hero!
Will Ceridwen continue to reject his advances? I shall have to purchase the next in the series immediately in order to find out.
A compelling and well researched series. Recommended to lovers of historical stories, narrated from a female viewpoint.
April 12, 2018
Strap on your seax, this shield maiden is going to take you on a wild ride!!!
Nothing is more universal than courage, faith, love, and loyalty. All are tested in The Circle of Ceridwen. The fans of Bernard Cornwell’s Warrior Chronicles will also find many comparisons between Uhtred of Bebbanburg and the heroine, Ceridwen.
The book is beautifully scribed and meticulously researched. I find that the author describes the contents of this tome the best. It has young women with enormous courage, swords with names, Vikings with tattoos, warfare, passion, and survival! The reader is swept through this saga with the voice of a young woman questioning her place in place in Anglo-Saxon England. This, however, does not this limit the audience to women. Men will find the story equally compelling. It is also the story of a fierce Viking warrior who knows his mind and his Fate.
This is the first of five books. Buckle up, you’re in for a ride!!!
Nothing is more universal than courage, faith, love, and loyalty. All are tested in The Circle of Ceridwen. The fans of Bernard Cornwell’s Warrior Chronicles will also find many comparisons between Uhtred of Bebbanburg and the heroine, Ceridwen.
The book is beautifully scribed and meticulously researched. I find that the author describes the contents of this tome the best. It has young women with enormous courage, swords with names, Vikings with tattoos, warfare, passion, and survival! The reader is swept through this saga with the voice of a young woman questioning her place in place in Anglo-Saxon England. This, however, does not this limit the audience to women. Men will find the story equally compelling. It is also the story of a fierce Viking warrior who knows his mind and his Fate.
This is the first of five books. Buckle up, you’re in for a ride!!!
June 15, 2019
Another great read thank you Octavia Randolph
A wonderful sequel for the Circle of Ceridwen. I think I enjoyed this one more than the first. The storyline is awesome, and I really like the role of all the characters, not even one is left. The little skips in time were pretty enjoyable, as it kept the book from becoming boring and over descriptive. Godwin is an awesome character, the situation that surrounds him and Ceridwen gave me a lot of tension but gladness. Gyric is also amazing, I really admire how much he loves Ceridwen and the sacrifices he's willing to make for his loves ones. I read the whole book filled with joy and excitement, in overall my read was quite enjoyable. I just started reading the third, and I have high expectations. Octavia Randolph writes beautifully, so if you enjoyed the first book, then I highly recommend that you keep reading the saga.
A wonderful sequel for the Circle of Ceridwen. I think I enjoyed this one more than the first. The storyline is awesome, and I really like the role of all the characters, not even one is left. The little skips in time were pretty enjoyable, as it kept the book from becoming boring and over descriptive. Godwin is an awesome character, the situation that surrounds him and Ceridwen gave me a lot of tension but gladness. Gyric is also amazing, I really admire how much he loves Ceridwen and the sacrifices he's willing to make for his loves ones. I read the whole book filled with joy and excitement, in overall my read was quite enjoyable. I just started reading the third, and I have high expectations. Octavia Randolph writes beautifully, so if you enjoyed the first book, then I highly recommend that you keep reading the saga.
September 10, 2020
I really enjoyed Ceridwen's character in the first book, but not so much in the second book. It seems no matter what, she is not satisfied, and her story as it evolves begins to feel predictable.
What I loved about this book is the history that is playing out. I could feel the fear and hopelessness of the Anglo-Saxons in Wessex as they feared there was no way to stop the Danes from taking over all of Anglo-Saxon England, their anger at the treachery of the Danes and their joy when finally King Alfred won peace, even though I knew it was coming.
A good book to borrow from the library, but not worth buying.
What I loved about this book is the history that is playing out. I could feel the fear and hopelessness of the Anglo-Saxons in Wessex as they feared there was no way to stop the Danes from taking over all of Anglo-Saxon England, their anger at the treachery of the Danes and their joy when finally King Alfred won peace, even though I knew it was coming.
A good book to borrow from the library, but not worth buying.
August 7, 2013
This 2nd installment reinforced my opinion on Ceridwen's naivete. The story line moved along at a good pace and I was eager to read on. I finished this book in a day and quickly moved on to the 3rd one because I wanted to find out how she resolved things and found fulfillment. I think she only loved Gyric because of her fierce loyalty and his opportune presence. It just didn't seem to be an all-consuming, deep love and I hoped the author could explain how it developed that way or give Ceridwen fulfilment some other way. Having read the 3 rd book, I liked this one the best of the 3.
September 24, 2013
I must admit to writing this review after having read all three books. I loved them all! Put briefly, the first book was Ceridwen's youth, this second her middle years, and the third her older years. Although if comparing to modern-day, old would mean her 30s. This book was written with as much skill in the sense of building the characters, and spirit of the times, as they all were. Octavia Randolph is an excellent author. I love finding excellent authors to read!
November 30, 2016
Ok, this series has been fully redeemed for me. I loved it. It was fantastic. I gave me literally ALL THE FEELS. Sidroc is still my favorite character, even though he was only in a couple of sections of this book. But oh how intense those scenes were. I have high hopes for him in the next installment though...speaking of which...*picks up The Claiming and makes a pot of tea*
November 26, 2019
Book 2 in a series of 6. Some relationship tensions build between characters, plot advances with raiding Danes, life as a lady charged with caring for the people of the village, lots of 9th century details- clothes, activities, foods, weaponry, treasure; but not as fun or novel as the first book. Sidroc has tantalizing, cameo appearances. Eager to continue into the 3rd book.
November 2, 2014
Another Enjoyable Installment
The saga continues with the merciless Danish invasion, an unexpected twist in the Kilton hierarchy, and daily life. At times I wonder if all is too well, but then Randolph ups the ante and I am engrossed once again.
The saga continues with the merciless Danish invasion, an unexpected twist in the Kilton hierarchy, and daily life. At times I wonder if all is too well, but then Randolph ups the ante and I am engrossed once again.
December 6, 2015
Touching read!
I truly enjoyed this installment of Ceridwen. Many times I was brought to tears and that is very rare for me. This book was so much better than the first and am looking forward to the third.
I truly enjoyed this installment of Ceridwen. Many times I was brought to tears and that is very rare for me. This book was so much better than the first and am looking forward to the third.
November 17, 2020
Even better than the first book, looking forward to #3.
July 20, 2020
Another solid book by Octavia Randolph. I feel like I gathered more history reading this series for a second time. Love reading about Ceridwen as she becomes a woman.
August 29, 2025
reread 2025 via ebook
January 16, 2025
Massive spoilers below! Continue reading at your own risk!
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Ummm I wasn’t expecting an incestuous threesome to happen in this book. Our main character, Ceridwen, has sex with her blind husband’s brother, while laying next to her blind husband, who is also doing things to her. I didn’t think this was *that* kind of book. I’m still a bit speechless, but I guess go off, sis 😂 OH and I can’t forget to mention that she gets pregnant with the husband’s brother and essentially gifts the love child to him and his wife (since they can’t have a child). Wtf?? So bizarre! Anyway, this book was pretty terrible but I’m willing to read one more bc I hear Ceridwen eventually gets with our handsome viking man, Sidroc (who she randomly kisses at the end of this book. Gf is messssy 😆). He is the only guy I’m rooting for in this series lol. The only reason I didn’t give this one star is bc I did love reading about the time period.
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Ummm I wasn’t expecting an incestuous threesome to happen in this book. Our main character, Ceridwen, has sex with her blind husband’s brother, while laying next to her blind husband, who is also doing things to her. I didn’t think this was *that* kind of book. I’m still a bit speechless, but I guess go off, sis 😂 OH and I can’t forget to mention that she gets pregnant with the husband’s brother and essentially gifts the love child to him and his wife (since they can’t have a child). Wtf?? So bizarre! Anyway, this book was pretty terrible but I’m willing to read one more bc I hear Ceridwen eventually gets with our handsome viking man, Sidroc (who she randomly kisses at the end of this book. Gf is messssy 😆). He is the only guy I’m rooting for in this series lol. The only reason I didn’t give this one star is bc I did love reading about the time period.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2017
A wonderful sequel for the Circle of Ceridwen. It took me one day to finish it, and as a result, I think I enjoyed this one more than the first. The storyline is awesome, and I really like the role of all the characters, not even one is left. The little skips in time were pretty enjoyable, as it kept the book from becoming boring and over descriptive. Godwin is an awesome character, the situation that surrounds him and Ceridwen gave me a lot of tension but gladness. Gyric is also amazing, I really admire how much he loves Ceridwen and the sacrifices he's willing to make for his loves ones. I read the whole book filled with joy and excitement, in overall my read was quite enjoyable. I just started reading the third, and I have high expectations. Octavia Randolph writes beautifully, so if you enjoyed the first book, then I highly recommend that you keep reading the saga.
November 21, 2020
Book Two in the Saga series sees Ceridwen settled at Kilton, marvelling at her new life and exploring her relationship with Gyric and his family, most notably his mother, whom she holds in high esteem, and elder brother Godwin, heir to the estate. A man who seems the embodiment of how she imagines her husband would have been, had the catastrophic events that befell him in Book One not occurred.
Whilst shorter than the first novel, the pace is fast and the action intense, with the sweep of history taking in the critical years 871-877AD. Aelfred and the Saxon Kingdoms suffer at the hands of the Danes; it is in no way clear who will prevail and the fortunes of war are an ever-present backdrop to the daily and seasonal lives at the burgh of Kilton. Periods of intense personal happiness amidst this land of plenty are punctuated by men riding away to war. Life is perilous for those left behind, as well as for those who go to fight. Ceridwen is challenged as she never thought possible, but through this she defines herself anew and when Sidroc, now the Jarl of Four Stones in Lindisse, unexpectedly appears at Kilton, not once but twice, Ceridwen cannot entirely deny their connection. We glimpse between them a future that may be entirely different to that which she expects.
Octavia’s narrative expertly weaves its way between the personal and the historical, and we are eager to see where this tantalising possibility may take us in Book Three. I enjoyed this second reading, every bit as much as the first.
Whilst shorter than the first novel, the pace is fast and the action intense, with the sweep of history taking in the critical years 871-877AD. Aelfred and the Saxon Kingdoms suffer at the hands of the Danes; it is in no way clear who will prevail and the fortunes of war are an ever-present backdrop to the daily and seasonal lives at the burgh of Kilton. Periods of intense personal happiness amidst this land of plenty are punctuated by men riding away to war. Life is perilous for those left behind, as well as for those who go to fight. Ceridwen is challenged as she never thought possible, but through this she defines herself anew and when Sidroc, now the Jarl of Four Stones in Lindisse, unexpectedly appears at Kilton, not once but twice, Ceridwen cannot entirely deny their connection. We glimpse between them a future that may be entirely different to that which she expects.
Octavia’s narrative expertly weaves its way between the personal and the historical, and we are eager to see where this tantalising possibility may take us in Book Three. I enjoyed this second reading, every bit as much as the first.
January 15, 2024
The Ceridwen books are a sort of distaff version of The Last Kingdom, giving a women's eye on the disruptions around the time of Viking raids and Alfred the Great. This volume finds Ceridwen married to the second son of a noble family, trying to deal with home life; Sidroc (somewhat surprisingly to me) returns and the blurry lines between Christan and pagan, Viking and English, pillage and trade, and health and injury make this a rich book.
At least in this volume, I was a bit bothered by the universal appeal of Ceridwen's charms, though to be for it's no worse than the martial prowess in The Last Kingdom so I guess we're getting what we paid for.
At least in this volume, I was a bit bothered by the universal appeal of Ceridwen's charms, though to be for it's no worse than the martial prowess in The Last Kingdom so I guess we're getting what we paid for.
February 15, 2019
Ceridwen rescued Gyric, son of Godwulf of Kilton in Wessex, who had been blinded by a Dane, from capture at the Danish fortress at Four Stones, and returned him to his family, subsequently becoming his wife and mother of his heir, Ceric. Life with Gyric’s family and particularly his older brother, Godwin, led to problems and intrigues as the recurring war between the Danes and Wessex ebbed and flowed and Ceridwen found herself drawn between her obligations to her husband, her new family, her memories, and her heart. As peace dissolved to war and war broke the peace her complications grew and she must decide how to direct her life. This is an excellent and well-researched continuation to the story.
August 9, 2017
What can I say, Alexa is reading Book 3 to me. I am captivated by this series. Seems these are relatively new. Book 1 written last fall. So far, 5 in series. Ceridwen, the heroine, is a young Saxon woman married to a warrior she rescued, attracted to his brother, and still with feelings for a young Dane she knew as a "lady-in-waiting type at age 15. Written in the speech patterns of midieval times contributes to the emersion into the era. Have had to look up some terms.
Great saga.
Great saga.
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