Wildswept

Circle of Ceridwen Saga #7

by Octavia Randolph

Duty versus Desire
The Peace between the Saxons and Danes has collapsed. Viking forces led by the war-lord Haesten strike at will across borders. One more push will destroy Wessex. The Danish warriors settled under the Dane-law are tempted to join with these new invaders, wiping clear the game board as they seek full dominance of Angle-land.

Sidroc, having witnessed his son Hrald's victory at Four Stones, undertakes the perilous return to Gotland, a journey shadowed by the spirit of his long-dead uncle Yrling. Before his father's eyes Hrald has won the garrison fortress of Turcesig, but can he keep it?

Ceric, the son of Ceridwen, rides with Ælfred's ambitious son, Prince Eadward, in their wild pursuit of the invaders. After distinguishing himself in the field Ceric receives a startling order from the King, sending him to Four Stones. There Ashild and her mother Ælfwyn contend with the dual claims of duty and desire, and each come face to face with their past - and their future.

At Kilton in Wessex the young lord Edwin, just sixteen, is overwhelmed at the challenges before him both as a warrior and as a man. Yet he is unexpectedly entrusted with a secret which could shatter all he holds dear.

The fortresses of Kilton and Four Stones. What binds them together now threatens to tear them apart.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical

440 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 15, 2020

About the author

I 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

Reviews

[farR · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am getting worried

Yes, I am getting worried. Worried if I could continue loving this series. The writing is excellent as always and attention to historical details is enchanting. Those were things that helped me going when reading this latest instalment. Not the story.

I looked forward to reading this book hoping some of the issues in book 6 were resolved. But no, this book keeps on and on resolving nothing and telling nothing new. There was no new development, no moving forward and nothing new to tell. Except a few side stories of supporting characters. Then the book suddenly ends.

And I am afraid by now I am convinced that I am no fan of Ashild at all. I don’t understand her issues. Yes, she’s a daughter of Yrling but he had never been part of her life growing up. We all know he died long before she was even born. So I don’t understand her attachment to his legacy that seems to be the cause of all her irritating hang- ups. There are the whole lot other people there at Four Stones who had lived and fought alongside Yrling. And they’ve moved on. So her undeserved self-importance is so tiring to me. I stopped reading and had to put the book down each time after reading passages involving her in this book. I half wish Ceric just let her go and looked elsewhere.

I am not sure if I wish to pre-order the next book as I have done with all previous books in the series. Maybe this time I’ll need to read the reviews first, avoiding those written by the same group of familiar names, of course.

[Shani Goode · Rating 5 out of 5]

Splendid
Book 7: Wildswept is a delightul addition to the already brilliant Circle of Ceradwin Saga series.
Woven from a tale of Viking times set in the late 800's, the story follows the courage, love, conflicts and adventures of a group of charming characters, whom will have you deeply engrosed as they weave their way into your heart.
Octavia has a remarkable gift by way of pulling you into the setting of her tales, so much so that it is hard to walk away from this alternate life, leaving a permanent imprint in your heart.

Highly recommend Octavia's works.

[Krista · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 7 of the Circle of Ceridwen series by Octavia Randolph starts at the exact moment that book 6 ended. It continues the saga of each of the characters we have welcomed into our hall as we have read the previous books. The story of Sidroc and Ceridwen are included, but much of the book deals with their growing and grown children and the future of the Danes and Saxons. Will this war go on forever or will peace be held?
Although the characters of this book are mainly fictional, it is a well researched series including many historical people and facts. I can't recommend this series highly enough. You can get the first book free in an eBook form from the author's website Octavia.net. She also has videos with the pronunciations of names if you are struggling with them, since she does use traditional Saxon and Danish names.

[Bonnie Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am 200% in love with this series. Books are too short and the time between books is torture. I cannot get enough! Time to make a Neflix series on this beloved saga!!

[Anya · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can't empathize with Ashild. Her actions and decisions don't make a lot of sense to me.

[Judith Boxer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wildswept, Book Seven of the Circle of Ceridwen Saga series lives up to all the myriad of emotions and events contained within it and which I experienced and felt in reading every chapter and the way the new book unfolds especially in the nuances of both major and minor events. Such as the complexity and dynamics between the characters, the ever present threat of death and disaster and uncertain futures, the giving of gifts, the wonderful portrayal of the food that is eaten, the description of the clothes the characters wear and preparations made for the many journeys undertaken. As a continuation of the duality and intertwined lives of the main Anglo Saxon and Viking characters the story picks up where Silver Hammer: Golden Cross left us. Suspended in the hope that peace and safety might prevail after the death of Guthrum and the more cordial relationships that had lasted between Wessex and Danefolk and attempts made that this not be broken. This book explores so accurately the momentous changes that do take place near the end of the life of King Alfred; in both how war is now ever present and how each of the main characters has to face upheaval, heartache, loss, hope and an uncertain future. Those of us who are captivated by Octavia Randolph's writing and story weaving and have come to love and to pray for the characters, whether this be in terms of Christian or Norse beliefs or both, will not be disappointed but only further enthralled and maybe surprised by the twists and turns of this Saga tale, as we travel back and forward in the story, from Wessex, Mercia, Daneland, Gotland and as far as the land of the Sami. Not wanting to add any spoilers but to leave readers with the chance to experience the delight of this book for themselves, all I will say is that I came to love certain characters more than in previous books, the writing was superb and that this book deserves to win many accolades and awards and should be made into a television series like The Last Kingdom as it has as so much if not more to offer. Be prepared to wonder at decisions made, laugh, cry and smile but most of all buy this book and treasure it always as I do with all the previous books and so look forward to the next book in the series.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Octavia Randolph has done it again! Another great book and I love reading about the characters as they age and progress. Loved the different angles of plot and story plus the new setting with Tindr.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another solid installment in the Circle of Ceridwen series. We continue to get more and more background info and development of the characters we’ve spent hundreds of pages with, sometimes to frustrating ends. On the whole though, as the war between the Danes and kingdoms of Anglia intensifies, the interpersonal drama continues to grip you and keep you reading.

My absolute favorite part was a letter and ring that Raedwulf leaves for one of the characters:

“You who once were as a burning torch to me are now guide-beacon in all coming action. Were the grave burdens we bear be lifted, and our lands at Peace, I would hazard dire injury to learn the workings of your heart. My ring will speak the rest.”

Suddenly that couple has taken all precedence for me, especially over the sometimes increasingly whiny Ceric and Ashlid. I don’t have as many problems with them as other reviews did, but I don’t always need them to be front and center.

I also loved that while Sidroc and Ceridwen have found true happiness and peace on Gotland, it appears more and more likely that their twins will be venturing from the island soon, finally bringing a larger sense of drama to that area of this epic.

I’m becoming increasingly worried about what will happen to everyone as the war gets worse, and another cliffhanger ending will keep me ready to read the next book in this fantastic series!

[Brooke Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I completely understand other readers and their frustration with Ashild’s choices and reasonings. I would have to agree that she really makes no sense, after everyone and everything is pointing her to be with Ceric, even with a baby on the way which blows my mind that she wouldn’t be with the father, but still somehow decides to stubbornly stay home ? So confused.

Lots going on and at the same time nothing going on. So I would say this was probably my least favorite of the series so far.

[Lynne Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit rushed at the end

I found Wildswept difficult to get into at the beginning and the end very rushed. That may have been because I had just read War Lord and it's pace was faster and the conclusion so satisfying. Obviously more books are planned but I would have liked the last chapter to have been more rounded.

[Christy Lené · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book #8 in a historical fiction Viking saga written by one of the most gifted storytellers of our time. This edition is much of the norm. In this author’s case it means more of a very, very good thing.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This seventh book in the Circle of Ceridwen series continues the story of my favourite Viking hero, Sidroc, his Anglo-Saxon love and their children. Their two families are bound together by ties of friendship and marriage, but the onset of Haesten’s invasion, following the death of King Guthrum, threatens the Peace which has held for many years. Will King Aelfred and his forces, together with the Jarls of Daneland be able to withstand this new threat encroaching from both the seas and the Northern lands?
Sidroc’s young son, Hrald, now Jarl of Lindisse, must endeavour to keep the Danish Jarls loyal to King Aelfred. Would a marriage between Ashild and Ceric form a permanent alliance between Kilton and Lindisse? But Ashild, daughter of Yrling a Dane and Aelfwyn an Angle-Saxon lady, is independent and stubborn. Her loyalties are torn. She wishes to remain at Four Stones and fight to defend her home in Lindisse.
Meanwhile, Ceridwen waits with her twin children in Gotland for the return of her husband, Sidroc from the war-torn Angleland.
A dramatic story of changing loyalties, differing cultures and spiritual beliefs.
A compelling plot moving from Wessex, to Daneland, to Gotland and back.
Riveting reading!

[Aich Elle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just found this series back in March which was the beginning of the Pandemic. I was so happy all these books, loong books . . . . My favourite! Then I read the sixth book and thought oh no now I have to wait well then I found out it was coming out in a few short months which seemed like so many! . . . . oh no no NOW I have to wait, the seventh book just came out and there was 3 years between writing the sixth and seventh. . . I almost feel like I'm 14 again and waiting for the next Harry Potter book to come out. I am speculating and wondering what is going to happen to Ceric and Hrald ? And Ashild!! The ladies in this book are giving me heartburn!

And I love Ceridwen but I am slightly angry that she wrote Aelfwyn a letter for Sidroc to take all the way back to Four stones and didn't think to write her two sons . . . Or even give them a message if by any chance Hrald sees Ceric. I got over it before when she gave them up to live in Gotland but this really bothered me. . . Anywhoo, I hope so much for the twins to go and meet all of their siblings in the coming books. But I'm not sure everything can end well, here's hoping :)

My heart at the end is feeling a bit broken there is a lot going on. So many different threads are being weaved and I am fulling invested in them all.

I have just finished it now and need to process but hopefully will come back with more to say. . .

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved every one of the books in the Circle of Ceridwen series and this one is no exception. I have always found the author's books to be interesting from the first word to the last. I really wanted to read this book in one sitting, but forced myself to put it down to make the enjoyment of reading last longer.
Octavia Randolph does a marvelous job of giving the reader a good sense of time and place. The way in which she structures her sentences is essential in creating that feeling. Her descriptions of each of the characters makes them easily pictured in the mind of the reader in such a way that each one is memorable, which isn't easy to do in a series that has had so many characters introduced throughout the seven books.
In this book the action takes place with three different set of characters in three different places. Ceridwen, Sidroc and their family and friends in Gotland, Hrald (Sidroc's son), Aschild and their mother Alfwyn at Four Stones and Ceric, Edwin and Modwynn in Kilton. I think the balancing of the storyline between the three settings was very well done.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up the book 1 of this saga on a recommendation. I have a very difficult time picking up a new author and most books I read 20-30 pages and put it down. I could not put this series down. I started in May 2020 and finished all of the books by the beginning of July. The descriptions of Medieval England, Gotland, and even the land of the Sami are so detailed that you really do feel like you are there. I have particularly enjoyed the way that the author didn't use "modern" language, but used words that the characters might have used.

Wildswept (released in October) was just as enjoyable! It continues the story of Sicroc and Ceridwen, their children and families. We are now also following the stories of their children, who are grown and growing. This is against the backdrop of the resumption of Viking raids upon the island of Britain. The plot twists are frequently unexpected, and yet fit the characters perfectly.

The series has also ignited an interest in Anglo Saxon England, which I must admit I knew almost nothing about. I have read a number of histories since (most notably "The Anglo-Saxon World" by Nicholas Higham) which have really expanded that interest. I have learned so much!

[Libby Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another tale from a master storyteller. 'Wildswept' is Book 7 in the series of the ‘Circle of Ceridwen’ saga. We continue our association with well known characters from the previous novels, whilst this story focuses on the younger generation as they forge a path through perilous times and personal challenges, in a world threatened by war and uncertain allegiances.

As always, meticulous research underpins Octavia’s writing. The ring of authenticity cannot be under-estimated as it draws us into a story that continues to be a well-spring of the personal preoccupations each character has with the business of living.

If you are familiar with the previous novels and the companion title, ‘Sidroc’ (and I heartily recommend them), you will find one or two surprises, encouraging speculation on future storylines.

This is excellent historical fiction with strong and engaging characters, set in the year 893 during the pivotal reign of King Alfred in Viking/Saxon England, and also on the Scandinavian island of Gotland. Join me in celebrating this newest addition to the Saga, and then rejoice that Book 8 is already underway.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was waiting a year for this book in the Circle of Ceridwen Saga. It was wonderful to rejoin the family of friends Octavia Randolph has built for us in this series. From the first book (Circle of Ceridwen) I have enjoyed the history of England in the 800's when the Vikings invaded and won a large part of the island. We find we love characters from both sides of the conflict. The author is very knowledgeable of the history, the daily lives including dress, food, customs, etc. such that I, who never enjoyed history, fly through the books. The series is a romance that carries over several decades and introduces additional characters whose lives and loves we also come to care about. Five stars ! And, please, Octavia, hurry on to the next book. We worry about our beloved characters as we know are only a few years away from the big battles of 907-910.

[Beth Altchek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is my go-to escape from current events. Turns out the 9th century is a great place to hang out in, especially with the comforts of home life today. Octavia Randolph is a master of character development and that, along with her ability to flesh out the setting so that you are right there in the moment, is what makes the Saga so terrific.
I recommend all the books, but Wildswept is a favorite. Ashild is all grown up and stubbornly continues to steamroll her own path through the world. Sidroc and Ceridwen struggle with the right words in difficult conversations with their growing children. The island of Gotland remains a safe place for our beloved characters, and is almost a character in itself.
If you've yet to read these books, start with The Circle of Ceridwen, and know you have an enjoyable journey of many reading days ahead.

[Neill Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The saga grows

Aelfred has summoned Hrald of Four Stones to meet with him in order to assign him to assemble a force of three hundred men to trap the invading Danes between Aelfred’s men and Hrald’s in an attempt to free Angleland from the Danish invasion. In addition he has asked Cedric to wed Ashild, lady of Four Stones to enhance his forces but this has raised all sorts of unanticipated issues. Sidroc, meanwhile will be returning to his family on Gotland. Tinder and Scatha have a new child who they wish to take to see Scatha’s parents in Finland. Back in Angleland Ashild has found herself with new problems and Hrald has found a new love. I enjoyed this book immensely and highly recommend it. I’m looking forward to a sequel.

[Amberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will start by saying that it's not very often that I find a book series or author that I enjoy with such relish!! These books are wonderful sagas that follow characters that you can't help but fall in love with as they undergo all of the difficulties and joy that many of us in real life go through. The author sweeps you through these sagas in ways that make you love the land, customs, and different people. It also gives you an added appreciation for how easy life is now compared to these earlier times but also gives you the reality of daily joy and hardship that everyone struggles with at one time or another. This is just a quick and instant review and I will come back to edit it and add my further thought on one at a later date. I would suggest these books to any person.

[Liz Hatcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this seventh book in The Circle of Ceridwen Saga; but not as much as the previous books. This book somewhat jumped around amongst the characters making it hard to keep up with what was going on with each one. It also, for me at least, left me hanging at the very end when it jumped back to Sidroc and Ceridwen’s life. Having said this, the book is well written and gave me a feel for the Danes and what happened in this time period. The characters are well written and there is much descriptiveness in locations and characters. I'm hoping Ms. Randolph's next book, her eighth in this series, which I plan on buying and reading, will continue the story (as I'm sure it will) and give me a better ending than this one did.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I re-read the entire series prior to reading Wildswept and must say, I enjoyed the series even more the second time around. Wildswept picks up where book 6 left off and continues this epic story, mostly through the eyes of the children of the primary characters. The children themselves become more fully realized characters as the story proceeds. I found myself looking up places and names for reference to further flesh out the history encapsulated here. The prose is elegant and lyrical; and Randolph continues to add layers to the tapestry of her characters. Book 7 left me eager for more. Can't wait!

[Teresa Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful installment, I want more.

As always, I greatly enjoyed Octavia's tale. I wonder what is to come in the next book for Cerridwen and her family. Will the twins see Four Stones? Will Hrald wed? Will Ceric and Ashild find a way to be together while both feeling they are doing their all for their Halls?

The entire saga is multilayered and well written with many twists and turns. She writes in such a way that the characters breathe and you feel like you might be able to entertain them at table if you only could speak to them. No character is allowed to be cookie cutter cardboard, each is necessary and developed.

[Brenda Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 7th book in the outstanding Circle of Ceridwen series does not disappoint. Hrald's, Ceric and Ashlyn are young adults facing challenges and standing up to them with heart and integrity. Sidroc and Ceridwen are awaiting the birth of their child, surrounded by the love and sd support of their friends on Gotland.. There are so many loyalties to be considered at every turn. Through Octavia Randolph's superb storytelling we feel the battlefield as well as the love.

[Sally Buckley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a fan of the Circle of Ceridwen Saga, Octavia Randolf's latest book in the saga, Wildswept, was like coming home and being amongst family.
Whilst the bigger story didn't move forward far, the plot was consolidated and this book really sets up for what is to come.
I highly recommend this book to fans of the Saga, or encourage readers to start at the beginning and enjoy the journey.
Sally Buckley

[Barbara Odgers]

I have read all of Octavia Randolph books and have found them to be the best series I have ever read, have read this series 3 time over, the style of writing is supreme in every way, Octavia keeps you interested with the characters involved and never disappoints. The story line continues to evolve with never a boring moment, I have read contiuously for hours and find it hard to put DOWN, now awaiting for book 8 (next Year). I give this book 10/10. Barbara Odgers

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Octavia has outdone Herself with this book in the Circle of Ceridwen series... Her attention to the historical period detail in excellent! The Characters are extremely real and very likeable... I enjoy the way she writes, and the reading flows easily. I can not say enough about this series, and highly recommend the books to all. Thank You, Octavia! And to the Readers... Please join the Circle, and Enjoy!

[Love Me A Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another wonderful episode in the saga. Congratulations Octavia! I was concerned that I would struggle a bit with the focus of this story turning to the next generation. I have never really warmed to Ceric or Ashild as characters and unfortunately I just plain don’t like Ashild at all now. Ceric has developed into a much more three dimensional character though. Hrald is turning out to be as lovely a character as his father!

[Shereen Lang · Rating 4 out of 5]

My excitement to read book 7 came to a crashing end.
I looked forward to reading this book hoping some of the issues in book 6 were resolved. But no, this book keeps on and on resolving nothing and telling nothing new. There was no new development, no moving forward and nothing new to tell. Except a few side stories of supporting characters. Then the book suddenly ends and I feel towards the end it was a hurry to finish the book was disappointing .

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am very much invested in the whole saga. I was reluctant at first. I got the first book free and I enjoyed it, but then I read reviews of the second book which had me concerned. Well, I read the second book and all of them plus Sidroc The Dane. Just finished Wildswept and started on book 8.
I thought Wildswept was an interesting story on various levels, historically, culturally and in the development of the characters, as have been all the books.. I can recommend the whole series so far.