The Edge on the Sword

by Rebecca Tingle

When fifteen-year-old Æthelflæd is suddenly and reluctantly betrothed to an ally of her father, the king, her world will never be the same. For as a noblewoman in the late 800s, she will be expected to be meek and unlearned-and Flæd is anything but meek and unlearned. Her marriage will bring peace to her land, but while her royal blood makes her a valuable asset, she is also a vulnerable target. And when enemies attack, Flæd must draw upon her skills and fight to lead her people to safety and prove her worth as a princess-and as a warrior.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Fantasy, Historical, Adventure, Fiction, Medieval

277 pages, Paperback

First published June 25, 2001

About the author

Rebecca Tingle was born in Utah as the oldest child in a large family - three boys and five girls. She grew up reading armfuls of novels from the Orem Public Library, riding horses, acquiring as many pets as her parents would allow (three dogs, three cats, two budgies, a hermit crab, and various reptiles and amphibians), hiking the Wasatch Range of the Rocky Mountains with her brothers, and training in classical ballet.

Upon graduating from high school, she began a short professional ballet career with Ballet West and also pursued a B.A. in English at the University of Utah. After earning an M.A. in English with a medieval specialization at Brigham Young University, she went to Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar to study Old English literature.

Tingle returned home to Utah having written the first few chapters of a novel about Aetheflaed of Mercia. She worked for a year as a member of the Brigham Young University Admissions Committee before marrying Bryce Tingle, a Canadian lawyer, and moving to Calgary, Alberta. There she finished her novel, The Edge on the Sword, and began a second book. Rebecca and Bryce are the parents of two daughters, Miranda and Afton.

Reviews

[Christina Baehr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ignore the irritatingly standard YA cover. This was GOOD.

I found this on Open Library when I searched for the keyword Mercia - it was a stab in the dark, really, but I was hoping to find something on the Lady of Mercia, Alfred the Great's oldest child. And did I ever!

This wasn't perfect. For example, I felt it started off on the wrong foot a little bit, the prose while clean and serviceable did not ache to be read aloud, and while the references to Christianity were all positive they lacked the kind of all-encompassing influence really present in the Middle Ages.

BUT -- Tingle kept surprising me. Over and over, she seemed to be taking the heroine in a conventional YA direction, only to totally and delightfully overturn my expectations. What a pleasure to have a teenage heroine who must genuinely grow and mature and be willing to change and admit her faults in order to step into her rightful position in history. Aethelflaed's character arc is achingly real and understandable. I really hurt for her in the story and longed for her to be refined and strengthened by her trials. The novel has a slow start but builds very satisfyingly and suspensefully with a great interplay between character development and plot. Dare I admit that I actually had tears rolling down my face at the end?

Will so look forward to sharing this with my daughters when they are 12 or so.

UPDATE: I had a chance to read the beginning again, and I just wanted to say that there is a significant flaw in this novel, which will annoy people who really know the Middle Ages. Basically, Aethelflaed at the beginning of the novel is an average 15-year-old girl…but not of the 800s. It's a stretch to imagine that this unskilled, small-minded child would have been found in the household of Alfred the Great. One of the things I found most appealing about the book is the fact that the heroine had to change drastically as a person in order to face her enemies and carry on her father's nation-changing vision. On further reflection though, it doesn't really make historical sense. Aethelflaed seems completely shocked that she is expected to make a strategic marriage that will benefit her people. Her only interest seems to be hiking with her brother. Really? At 15?? Where's her distaff?! There's a nice scene where she is weaving with her mother, but it takes place after dark by rushlight which makes no sense at all if you've ever seen either a medieval loom or a rushlight.

I still really, really enjoyed this book and will share it with my daughters. I wish Tingle could have kept the character trajectory that I enjoyed so much, and refined the historical believability of her character. Suzannah Rowntree did something rather neat in her medieval epic "Pendragon's Heir" by placing a world-traveling character from the year 1900 into Arthur's court. Thus her character could adjust along with the reader to medieval norms. In a way, I felt like this was happening in Tingle's book,.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Edge on the Sword is a imaginative, speculative tale of the early life of Aethelflaed, eldest daughter of King Alfred the Great of England, who grew up to govern Mercia (and be known as the Lady of the Mercians) after the death of her husband Ethelred of Mercia. Aethelflaed is an independent and intelligent fifteen-year-old, accustomed to freedom, so when her father tells her of her betrothal and assigns her a guardian, she does her best to escape from her newfound loss of liberty. When her escape leads to trouble, her guardian begins to teach her to fight and ride, training her to lead her people.

This is a very accomplished first novel. Aethelflaed is a wonderful character, strong-willed, smart, and sympathetic, and her setting is thoroughly researched and detailed (though not in an overwhelming way). The plot is tight and the climax nicely paced and exciting. Tingle apparently has a sequel (Far Traveler), about Aethelflaed's daughter, and I'm definitely going to look that one up as well, as The Edge on the Sword was easily one of the best young adult historicals I've read.

[Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

first read: pre goodreads...probably sometime around its release date in 2003
first reread: April 10-?, 2017

[Mary Herceg · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a wonderful and well-written historical fiction book, and I enjoyed it very much. It had skillfully drawn characters and plot, and I loved the main characters and was drawn in by both the thoughtful and suspenseful parts. (It was actually much more intense than I expected!) This book offered an amazing glimpse into Anglo-Saxon England through the eyes of a young noblewoman, and showed her journey to become a strong leader of her people. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys great historical fiction books, especially ones with strong characters (which definitely includes the female protagonist).

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

The reimagining of the "greatest woman in Old English military history" starts off slowly but ends with a bang. When fifteen-year-old Aethelflaed is pledged to her father's ally she sees herself as little more than a pawn and starts planning how she can run away. Her attempted 'escape' and actual attack by some unknown enemies leads to lessons in battle tactics and ways to protect herself that will come in handy in ways that she cannot possibly foresee.

[Hillary Muller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Flaed is the daughter of King Alfred the Great. Educated and strong, she is a pearl in her father's kingdom. Though she never wants to leave her home, her father betroths her to Ethelred, the Thane of Mercia. This marriage will strengthen the relation between their two kingdoms and secure peace. Headstrong Flaed must do her duty and leave her home and marry an older man. With her guardian Red, she embarks on the journey to Mercia. The journey is fraught with danger and she must learn to believe in her self and become the queen she is meant to be.

I love this book! It has action and adventure, and a heroine you just can not help but root for. Flaed is an actual historical figure and this just added to the realism of the story. The Edge on the Sword transported me to Britannia and an era I did not know much about before. This book educates you about history without you even realizing you are being educated. After reading this book I was left with a curiosity for this time period. Unfortunately, there are not many other books about this time period other than history textbooks. If you enjoy this book I would also encourage reading it's sequel, Far Traveler, a novel about Flaed's daughter.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book back in my early college days, and I didn't know if it would turn out as great as I remembered, but it really was! In fact, I enjoyed it even more the second reading. It's a timeless story of the forging of a great woman who lead her people with wisdom and courage. I absolutely loved it!

[Haley S · Rating 5 out of 5]

My whole family loves this book so i just decided to read it. Wow! I was in for quite a ride. It was very very good!!! Boys and girls will both love this. It does bring a few tears though. :( But overall, anyone who loves a book with LOTS of adventure would love this book.

[Valerie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have a feeling that the author spent a lot of time researching writing and literature for the time period. She described the use of wax and parchment while Flaed and her brother were learning to write. This isn’t bad but I could just kind of tell.

Part of the reason I couldn’t really like it a lot was because it was kind of slow. The last quarter of the book isn’t slow but the first three quarters are. Not the entire three quarters though because there is of course the capture and then a race but other than that Flead’s life is pretty mellow for the first three quarters of the book.

Flaed is a fairly good protagonist. She is smart of course and caring of her family. She isn’t exactly a feminist of her time but she does show what she is made of more than once. Red is a great bodyguard and has quite a story behind him. He is one of those men that is a man without having to pound his chest and roar. Flead’s betrothed you hardly get to see except twice and he isn’t too bad from what you see of him. Flaed’s brother is a very sweet kid, and her sisters are loud but sweet too. Flead is big on her family.

The first reasons I couldn't like it as much as I thought I would was becuase it was slow and I couldn’t see what the plot was until I got farther along into the story. The other part was that I wasn’t really engaged into Flead’s story. I don’t exactly know how to put it. I was interested and liked it just not that much.

[Dawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book. Geared towards Young Adults, it is a coming of age story about Aethelflad, oldest daughter of King Alfred. Set during her 15th year, it explores the time leading up to her marriage to Aethelred of Mercia. It creates a story to explain how she became "The Lady of Merica" and a warrior in her own right. The story works on a couple of levels. One, as a young woman coming of age; as good story to give the flavor of life circa 890; and as an adventure story. I recommend for anyone interested in the time period. Also for any one with a "tween" daughter and if you want to give her a princess in the "Brave" mold instead of the "Snow White" mold.

[ambyr · Rating 3 out of 5]

There's nothing surprising in the plot or character arcs here, but Tingle brings the Dark Ages to life with well-chosen domestic details and does her best to convey the mindset of a very different era. (I particularly appreciated how the characters think of distance--moving sixty miles from home is devastating, because it means possibly never seeing home again.) I would call this middle-grade more than YA, although I can see how it straddles the boundary.

[Ariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Æthelflæd is educated and obedient. She is cunning and yet able to be honest about her weaknesses.

Historically, Æthelflæd is actually an important person. She impacted the area in which she reigned enough to be mentioned in recordings, which is addressed in the epilogue.

I would certainly put this in a list with novels that are underrated and underloved. Give this book to your children!

[♥ Ava · Rating 3 out of 5]

Why is it always so hard for me to rate things? Well, this book. The Edge on the Sword was not my favorite, but is it really bad enough for two stars? Still thinking about it. Maybe 2.99 stars. Maybe.

Okay, where to start? How about Æthelflæd.

Sooo when I envision Æthelflæd, I think of a smart, strong warrior who led her people in hard times and for that has become a historical icon. But in The Edge on the Sword, “Flæd” was not so. The complete opposite, in fact. She didn’t strike me as very smart and was quite naïve. And often times, she would have smart moments that hinted at her “future self” one could imagine. But then she would follow those moments with something not smart.

To give an example, when Ethelred was treating her like a little kid who couldn’t do much and Flæd decided to secretly join Ethelred’s horse race (to prove she was more than what he thought of her). SMART, Flæd, SMART. You show that dumb dude! Especially when he’s like “When I win the race, you will bestow a kiss upon me!” And Flæd being Flæd, won that race, of course. GOOD JOB GIRL. So why did you let Ethelred kiss you???? HE’S TREATED YOU LIKE AN IDIOT. (Just a little side note…I know things were different in ancient times, but that still doesn’t change the fact that a 15-year-old girl full-on kissing a 40+ year-old man is NASTY. So did this have to be included? This is 10000% personal opinion, but stiiiiiill.)

To continue on with Æthelflæd as a character… I did like how there was a “journey” of sorts about her going from a typical schoolgirl to a warrior. I like how that was done. But it’s just realllllly hard not to see past the naïvness of Flæd in this book… You know, I would’ve liked to see her start as naïve and gradually become “smarter.” THAT would’ve been cool, going from naïve schoolgirl to smart & strong warrior!

While we’re on the topic of characters, I want to talk about some other people just because.

Edward. He was okay. I liked his bond with Æthelflæd and thought that was done well. I get Flæd was off doing her own thing, but I would’ve liked to see a bit more of Edward (just a personal opinion).

Red. The author did a good job of making us feel suspicious and uncertain of Red at first just like Flæd did. I didn’t mind him; he was like a dad to her, which was an interesting friendship.

Alfred. Uhhhh I mean he’s….there.

Ealhswith. She just didn’t seem very motherly to me for some reason.

Æthelgifu. Thank goodness you have a nickname….gifu?? DOVE. Your nickname is Dove and that is what I will remember. Anyway. Dove was fine. I liked Æthelflæd’s relationship with her sisters & thought that was nice.

Ælfthryth. It sounds like I’m choking when I say your name, Ælf…sorry, it’s Ealhswith’s fault.

Æthelweard.The little dude only came into play 2 times. WHERE WAS HE? That’s my only question. (Also, side not, sucks for Edward that he missed out on the Æ-train.)

Asser. He was ok? Not sure why he suddenly stopped being Flæd’s teacher and John suddenly took over?

Brother John. This dude was a creepo.

Ethelred. I was looking up something on Æthelflæd and saw a pic of her and [Æthelred] from the Last Kingdom. HE’S SO YOUNG. Just that one picture made his relationship with Æthelflæd 10000000% less gross to me. Like was he REALLY 30 years older than her? *Googles things* Okay, so Æthelred was born in 845/848 and Æthelflæd was born….870. So he was 22 or 25 years older than her (ew still…)……not sure what the Last Kingdom was doing, but they did a great job. ANYWAY, back to “Ethelred” in this book. I didn’t like him.

The plot of this book was very long. I was constantly bored with how slow things were moving and I really feel like some of Æthelflæd’s training could’ve been condensed. The pacing was just soooooo slooooow for me!

The writing of this book was ok to read, nothing extraordinary, nothing extrabad, so yeah.

The end of this book was just WHAT? You’re tellin me that Red was like “Yeahhh I predict there’s gonna be an attack” and SURE ENOUGH, next chapter, there’s an attack. And Red dies? *Could you predict this was going to happen any more than that?*

All of the attacks after that felt sooo random and forced. Example:


~Everbody’s campin oooout~

***

“OOOOOOOH NOOOOOOO
THERE’S AN ATTACK!”

Chapter XYZ

How random! Maybe this is just an it’s-not-you-it’s-me thing, but cooooome ooooon!

And by the end, after alllllll thaaaat tiiiiiiime, Æthelflæd still feels like the same naïve girl to begin with (except now she knows how to hold a sword and ride a horse).

Overall, I didn’t enjoy this book at any point in time reading it. I also don’t feel like I learned very much about the time period either, which is usually a plus of historical fiction, even HS I didn’t really like. I always have some takeaway knowledge! Not really in this case, which is a bit unusual for me. I didn’t “hate” this book, though. It didn’t irritate me constantly, but it did sometimes, which is why it’s a 2.99 star rating and not a 3.00 star rating. So.

[makenziejanes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just couldn't finish it, the writing was the kind to put you to sleep. Flipped through pages to the end to see if it ever got better and was disappointed.

[Esther Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting little medieval tale. The focus on poetry and simple living makes for an almost tranquil read. I was a little disappointed that the action indicated by the cover and summary really only comes into play during the last quarter of the book.

3.5 stars

[Rowan Ashton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great historical fiction, engrossed you in Anglo-Saxon Britain and the time of Alfred the Great. High quality storytelling with a strong female character from real history.

[English · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though technically a children’s book, The Edge on the Sword is a satisfying read for adults as well. The story is a speculative account a year in the teenage life of Æthelflæd, firstborn daughter of Alfred the Great, who would become known as ‘The Lady of the Mercians’. Sixteen year-old ‘Flead struggles to come to terms with her betrothal to Lord Athelred of Mercia, and the challenges of growing up, when all she really wants to do is have adventures in the marshes around her family’s home, and read poetry.

However, trouble is afoot, as the West Saxons soon learn that the region around Alfred’s Burh is teeming with Danish raiders, so a gaurdian named Red is appointed to guard the young ‘Flead. The presence of the mysterious stranger at first proves annoying and frustrating, but it time the loyal Mercian teaches and advises ‘Flead, his example guiding her to maturity, and to face the greatest danger of her life.

‘Speculative’ historical fiction has the potential to be rather problematic, but this story was on the whole, plausible, accurate and well written. I for one enjoyed the way in which the author wove Literature into the story, including Beowulf, Judith and The Maxims- which the title is derived from. It is known that Alfred had his children educated during the time of his great reform programme, and possible that the sharp and quick- witted Æthelflæd may have benefited from this, so the references to her being taught to read and write seem wholly credible. Also, whilst there is no direct evidence that she ever actually physically fought, or was trained to use weapons, the novel has her doing so, which does ‘work’ in the context of the story. Who knows, maybe it’s not impossible…

Those expecting high political drama and battle scenes will be disappointed, as most of the story is devoted to an account of ‘Flead’s life, relations with her family, and experiences growing up- with the youthful impetuousness , stubbornness and occasional indecisiveness and general difficulty that any teenager or parent of a teen could identify with.
However, whilst 'Flead has reservations and resentment about the changes which her position in life and responsibilities force upon her, these aspects did not ultimately prove anachronistic or jarringly modern as they do in other stories.

Such an approach is interesting from a social historical perspective, giving a ‘feel’ for what the life of a 10th century Saxon princess may have been like, though the story could be a little slow and repetitive in places.
My only gripes were this, and the occasional Americanism, but nothing heinous. It even proved useful for my studies- which was one of my intentions in reading the book, but also an enjoyable pleasure read. I would certainly consider reading the sequel Far Traveller. I would recommend this for all lovers of historical fiction, the Anglo-Saxon period, or just those wanting a good, clean read.

Parents considering the book may wish to know there is some violence towards the end, none of it particularly graphic, but at a level which may prove upsetting for some children.

[Gale · Rating 3 out of 5]

SAXON MAIDEN WITH A BOLD HEART!

Set in post-Roman Britain of the late 9th Century this book chronicles a year in the life of the eldest daughter of King Alfred. Because of border skirmishes and raids from Danes (plus the possibility of treachery from Irish kings) Alfred of Wessex relishes an alliance through marriage with King Ethelred of Lunden. Kindly and paternal Alfred also prizes literature and the ability to read, especially the Chronicles of Saxon history and ancient sagas of battles against monsters. Thus he insists that his daughter, as well as his son, be educated in the Scriptorium by Father John.

As a result of serious threats to Flaed's personal safety Alfred employs an envoy from Mercia, a former slave whose own king had betrayed him, as her personal bodyguard. Flaed enjoys reading ancient sagas and sneaking off to enjoy private time with her brother Edward, but her girlhood is drawing to a violent close. After a brush with abduction she grows to appreciate Red, her silent but faithful warder, and reluctantly accepts impending marriage to a man her father's age. But King Ethelred little suspects that his princess bride is also being trained in the arts of war; that she can ride a horse bareback, as well as wield a dagger, shield and sword. For Red realized before anyone else the critical need to teach her to defend her royal person.

The title and cover refer to more than just a female warrior earnest to be proactive in her own defense, for Flaed remembers the ancient words of warning that a person must always be ready for battle, and become a living Edge of any sword she bears. She comes of age in this captivating YA book--a bold heroine who accepts adult responsibility in times of crisis. How can she win the respect of the men who are to escort and protect her en route to Lunden? Based on a real warrior princess this novel of historical fiction presents an inspiring female protagonist. For young adults of all ages--especially those interested in medieval lore.

(February 10, 2010. I welcome dialogue with teachers.)

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rebecca Tingle’s THE EDGE OF THE SWORD and its sequel Far Traveler are simply and beautifully written historical fiction novels.

Set In the 10th century Anglo Saxony a Lady queen and her daughter forge their own destinies and those of their people.

The novels are both excellent reads for
those interested in early British history and
an entertaining read.

[Toni]

Rebecca Tingle and I should be friends. This novel, which tells the fictionalized story of a real Mercian queen (from the ninth century, no less), is full of adventure, trepidation, and hope. In the story, Flaed (this keyboard has no aesc symbol...) prepares for her arranged marriage to the aldorman of Mercia and the consequent alliance between their two countries. Outside forces are trying to prevent the alliance, so Flaed is preparing to defend herself. In addition, however, she is being instructed in reading and writing so that she can restore the art of learning to the Mercian people.

This book has a good balance of action and gentleness. Flaed learns to be a leader but, more importantly, she learns to be a female leader. Her character is thus inherently complex. She must make up for physical strength with quickness and battle strategy.

Edge also provides interesting information on the history of West Saxon and Mercia, including King Alfred's push for literacy (I heart Alfred!). My favorite thing about this book is the inclusion of the epic poem, Beowulf. Beowulf is the poem that Flaed and her brother read, and aspects of it become important to Flaed as challenges arise. The allusion to Beowulf adds to the richness of the narrative.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in Old English history and princesses who can hold their own with a sword.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the late 800s, the role of a king's daughter was to marry to benefit her father's kingdom. That is the role that fifteen-year-old Aethelflaed has know all her life would someday be hers. But she never expected it to happen so soon, and is shocked when her father announces that she will marry Ethelred of Mercia to strengthen an alliance against the Danes. She couldn't be less prepared for this news, and is shocked by the fact that in a few short months, she will have to leave her family to marry a man that she has never even met. And there are those men that would wish to stop this alliance - Welsh and Danish raiders. Because of this, Flaed's new fiance has sent a bodyguard for her, Red, a gruff man with a mysterious past. But Red has more to offer Flaed then just protection. He can teach her to defend herself using fighting skills that have traditionally only been taught to men. These are skills Flaed will need if she is to face the men who are plotting against her.

This historical novel was both exciting and fascinating, with a setting not often seen in young adult historical fiction. Aethelflaed grew up to be a great heroine, but I had never heard of her before. I loved reading about this strong and very real girl who became a leader at a time when women's roles were limited.

[Caitlyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Our protagonist, Flaed, fills her traditional gender role after careful consideration of what she is doing. While she is not a feminist, she is a strong female lead by being a smart woman and a well-respected leader of her people.

Very slow-moving until the story reaches its climax; then I couldn't put it down. I thought that Flaed got out of her predicaments a little too easily and I didn't 100% buy it.

Well-researched and historically accurate without being overbearing. I am a language arts student, so I appreciated the explanation of the runes and the addition of a few symbols in the writing. I also appreciated the references to Beowulf, the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, etc... Beowulf remains unnamed in the story and is referred to as 'the hero.' I'm not sure of the author's reason, but maybe it would have been a good idea to name Beowulf, for the sake of making the young audience familiar with the name.

A very good light read and a great find at the second-hand bookstore. I also loved the author's notes. There was explanation without being too wordy. Nice work.

[Marilyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was written by a friend of one of my sisters. When she told us about it and we got a copy to read, I wasn't expecting too much, but I was surprised. I think it would make a good movie and the book is much better writing than some other Young Adult books that have been made into movies. I won't mention them by name but I have another sister who knows the author of these oh so popular books and I guess I should be happy for a local girl who made it big. Believe it or not, I have a third sister who also has a friend who has had seveal books published which have done well in a limited market. All this makes me wonder if I have any friends out there who will some day be popular authors? Identify yourselves, so I can start saving any memorabilia that might be valuable one day.

[Gretchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book written by our neighbor's daughter, who has been here with her children for a few months, if you like young medieval heroines with a little history as well you will love this book. I'm glad that I don't live then though. Rebecca is a Rhodes scholar who studied English Lit.,and this book is fictional but ties in with real people that she studied. There is also a sequel which I want to read.

[Kylara Jensen]

I didn't even remember reading this book until I was looking through my old journal from 2005 where I chronicled all the books I read.

Now I have a vague memory of a YA/MG book taking place during the time of the Ae Breton kings about the main girl's arranged marriage.

It's a very vague memory.

How many more books are there like this that I read once on a whim and have no memory of?

[Ann Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whoever wrote the Goodreads blurb didn't read the book. I remember reading this book years ago with my daughters, and how one daughter was really intrigued with the idea that this book was based on a historical character. At the time we had a hard time finding more information about Aethelflaed, but when I Google her now there's a lot more information about the historical figure.

[Oyceter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a solidly written historical YA with a strong heroine and a nice teacher-student relationship. Tingle manages to make the heroine believable and brave without making her spunky or spirited. I should reread this some time...

[Kyla · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good read, enough to keep you entertained. Also, the story is real, and that's something that surprised me. Usually, I don't like non fiction so much, but this was great. It was like fantasy in a way.

[Annika · Rating 3 out of 5]

it was really good... I didn't even relize that it was historical fiction until the very end at the historical note!!!

[6thbreed · Rating 4 out of 5]

*A Thoughtful Four Stars*

I was super excited for The Edge on the Sword because of the cover and the synopsis, and it didn't disappoint. It just delivered in a way I didn't expect.
The huge amount of historical research included in this book really blew me away. When the first two pages are a detailed map and an author's note explaining the different letters in Aethlflaed's name, you can tell a book has had at least a little thought thrown into it. The way she added different facts about the West Saxons was impressive, and I actually learned a lot.
Flaed was such a strong, quiet heroine. Honestly, I really liked her as a main character. There are so many main characters who say they're small and quiet when they are describing themselves, but with Flaed you actually believe it. I'm pretty sure she only said a handful words throughout the entire book, yet her character is clearly defined. And even though she is unassuming, she has steel laced through her veins that uncovers itself when truly needed.
She also loves cautiously but deeply which is shown in her relationship with her brother and her other family members. I think sibling relationships are neglected in today's literature, and now I've found a great one in this book. My heart simultaneously loved and broke for Flaed with Edward.
Red. He was an amazing character, full of heart. Enough said.
While I've been focusing on the characters, I liked the plot as well. There was adventure, feels, and a small bit of politics.
Ultimately, what I most respected and enjoyed about The Edge on the Sword is the moral undertone. Honesty, accountability, loyalty, respect for human life, and doing the best you can despite awful circumstances are all themes. Flaed had a rotten hand dealt to her, yet she rose above it all even though she despised her lot. When most would curl up into a little ball and refuse to budge, she strode on. It's applicable to all of us. Are we going to fold like a deck of cards or shore up under life's onslaughts?
Our life...our choice...with God's help, I hope we choose shore up.
-------------
Now I know my review thus far has been very positive, but there were some negatives. The p swear word is thrown in at the end. There was quite a bit of violence in this book. Murder is attempted many times, and there is one instance where it is alluded to that Flaed is threatened to be raped. Characters die, and Flaed has to come to grips with killing people.
Also, Flaed's relationship with her intended is lacking yet realistic. I thought it was interesting in the fact that it was unlike any I've read in other YA books, but the fact that he was nearly the age of her father still eeked me out? For some reason, I came into this book with mild fairy tale retelling vibes, so I expected her to go with someone else. Someone who loved her truly. particularly Dunstan, actually. The young guard who protected her through thick and thin. Just the way Flaed's intended saw her rubbed me the wrong way. I think a man should be at least a little concerned about who he is marrying and how they view him. Instead, he hardly seemed to care. However, I do realize that it is more realistic this way, and The Edge on The Sword stayed true to its historical roots.
The aspect I disliked most about The Edge on the Sword is that though it leaves on a triumphant note, it left me feeling depressed. Flaed lost so much. Everything actually. So much change happened to her. My heart hurt for her. And why did Red have to die??? Tell me that! Mentors really should just bail at the beginning of the story because of the red target on their back. I knew I shouldn't have gotten invested in Red, but ugh, I did anyways. It was horrible when he died. I honestly think this detracted from the story for me...yet I know his death is what spurred her on to greatness...but just no.This is why although I enjoyed The Edge on the Sword, I will probably never read it again. I liked it, yet I didn't. Through her triumphs, Flaed was honed into something better, yet the pain it took on the journey was huge.
And that is why I rated The Edge on the Sword a thoughtful four star.

'"And his people said that he was the gentlest and kindest of men, most considerate of his people, and eager to be remembered well."'-pg. 269

'"If someone makes a choice for us, and we don't like it-maybe we even hate it-it's still our duty to keep ourselves sharp, or strong, to make ourselves ready for whatever task comes to us."' -pg. 188-189

'"They called you Red for the color of your sword in battle," she said with certainty, "for the blood of enemies you spilt on the battlefield, where wolves and carrion birds came to feed on the dead." She shot a solemn look at her warder and saw that Red was smiling.
"The name was for my head, that's all." He removed his close-fitting leather cap he wore and bent down...Flaed peered at the familiar grey and white bristles of her warder's cropped head. "Look hard," Red instructed, "I'm like an old strawberry roan horse." And then she saw them: Among the peppering of grey and white, a few rust-colored hairs. Flaed felt her face grow hot, but then before she could stop herself, she began to laugh. From beside her came a low chuckle-Red was laughing, too.'-pg. 128-129