In the Wake of the comet Star: A Mercian Tale

by Martin Wall, Jim Gardener (Illustrator)

Thrilling adventure tale set in 10th century England. As the first millennium closes, Anglo-Saxon England is gripped by fear and expectation of the end of the world. But an ancient prophesy foretells a hero, a man of destiny who will redeem the people. But who is he, and can he be found in time, as Viking raiders plan invasion and conquest? The second of his "Mercian Trilogy" series, this new story by Martin Wall is based on two Anglo-Saxon sagas which were lost after the Norman conquest --- the saga of Edmund Ironside, and the saga of Edric Streona, the most dastardly villain in English history. The darkest period of Anglo-Saxon times, the disastrous reign of King Ethelred "the unready" forms the backdrop for this epic tale of one man's quest as he traverses a country stricken by internal division, intrigue, and invasion by the Vikings.

194 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 15, 2014

About the author

Inherited a strong interest in history legends and mythology, and became precocious in this field, reading and "imagineering" from an early age. In later life I returned to West Mercia, and rediscovered this passion for "land magic", folk tales, and elemental stories. Gradually, out of felt need to preserve the ancient inheritance against the ravages of modern industrial/consumerist culture, I experimented with blending ancient folk tales with my own creations. I am a volunteer guide for several organizations, including the Staffordshire Hoard exhibition. I lecture to local groups on these themes.