Harald Harefoot, second son of King Cnute and Ælfgifu, returns from battle, hoping for peace and to spend time with his wife, Selia. Instead, the King grants him a thirty-hide estate in Mercia. Though reluctant, Harald cannot refuse his father.
Accompanied by their housecarls, Harald and Selia embark on their journey towards Ravens Hill, their new sprawling estate. Upon their arrival, the splendour of the land quickly gives way to unease as they uncover a dark undercurrent troubling the estate. The once vibrant community of tenants appears subdued, and whispers of discontent ripple through the air.
Determined to make the best of their situation and to treat their new tenants fairly, Harald and Selia face the challenges together.
However, when Harald and Selia are poisoned, things take a turn for the worse—someone is trying to drive them from their new estate. But who would go to such lengths, and what hidden motives lie behind such a malicious act?
“Ravens Hill (The Atheling Chronicles, Book 5)” by Garth Pettersen is a captivating novel distinguished by its vividly realised historical setting and enthralling character drama.
Pettersen paints a rich and vivid picture of Anglo-Saxon England, bringing its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and intricate social structures to life with striking detail. Wintanceaster, where King Cnute holds his royal court, is depicted in vivid strokes, from the imposing Great Hall with its high ceiling, to the New Minister's lush gardens. The atmosphere buzzes with the chatter of courtiers and the intrigue of court. As the narrative shifts to Ravens Hill, the landscape is again described in exquisite detail. The winding river glistens under a relentless sun, although the water runs shallow. The verdant valley, the fields of wheat and barley, the bare rock, and uncut woodland give this land the impression of timelessness. The hamlet itself is brought to life through detailed portrayals of its thatched-roof cottages, the clucking of chickens, and the omnipresent smell of dung, all of which contribute to a vivid sense of place. The mill, although the wheel has grown silent due to the drought, serves as a focal point of community life, while the bakehouse, filled with the warm aroma of bread, embodies the daily routines of the villagers. The descriptions extend to the abbey lands, detailing the sturdy stone buildings, the chants of the prayers, and the bustling activities that mark the daily lives of its inhabitants. Pettersen carefully contrasts the men’s abbey, St. Ivo’s, with the women’s abbey, St. Æbbe’s, highlighting their differing roles and responsibilities. Descriptions of the kitchen garden and the fulling mill, where wool is transformed into cloth, immerse the reader further into this world. This rich setting not only provides a backdrop for the characters’ interactions but also serves to highlight the intricate social and economic realities during this period, creating a deeply engaging narrative.
The characters in the story are intricately developed and deeply relatable. They encompass a diverse range of personalities and experiences, from the lowliest thralls who toil away without rights to the highest nobility, who are steeped in privilege yet often grapple with their own moral dilemmas. Each character possesses unique traits and motivations that resonate with readers, making their journeys reflect the nuances of social hierarchy and human emotion.
Harald, the hero of this series, emerges as a reluctant player in the intricate game of courtly politics; he yearns for a simpler existence but remains steadfastly loyal to his father, the King, while navigating the treacherous waters of his wary relationship with his stepmother, Queen Emma. As the newly appointed Lord of Ravens Hill, Harald is depicted as a fair and just ruler, always placing the welfare of his people above all else—a striking contrast to the oppressive reign of his predecessor. As with the previous books in this series, Harold truly captivates the reader’s imagination. His unwavering bravery, steadfast loyalty, and admirable character make him a wonderfully relatable and likeable hero.
Selia, Harald’s wife, shines with her intelligence and political acumen. She offers astute counsel to her husband, and their partnership thrives on mutual respect and equality. With her compassionate nature and keen insight into the emotions of those around her, Selia provides much-needed support and kindness to individuals navigating their own struggles, making her a quickly cherished figure in the community. Selia is an incredibly captivating protagonist, a character whose strength and vulnerability resonate deeply with readers.
Ricmann Two-Beard, the steward, is depicted as the opposite of Harald. Since Lord Wulfrun’s death, Ricmann has been allowed to act as he pleases, causing great distress among the local people. Until now, there has been no one to rein him in. His demeanour radiates arrogance, characterised by dismissive gestures and a self-serving attitude that reveal his deep-seated belief in his own superiority. This haughty arrogance creates an atmosphere of unease in the reader, as Ricmann’s presence lingers like a shadow, hinting at the conflicts and complexities of power dynamics that lie ahead.
Brother Widuc, a self-imposed hermit renowned for his wisdom, finally finds a sense of peace after years of isolation. A beloved character in this series, his journey back to the world is both heartwarming and inspiring. It is truly a joy to witness his gradual transformation as he sheds the layers of solitude and tentatively steps back into society. With each encounter, he not only reclaims his place among friends and neighbours but also rediscovers the beauty of connection, laughter, and perhaps even love.
Abbess Burchwen presents as a stern and pragmatic leader, dedicated to safeguarding the abbey’s interests and ensuring its stability in uncertain times. She maintains strict discipline among the nuns and is known for her unwavering commitment to the abbey’s values. In contrast, Abbot Osment brings a jovial demeanour to his role. Although he is somewhat subordinate to Burchwen in authority, he is a big physical presence. His focus lies primarily in nurturing the spiritual well-being of the abbey’s inhabitants through reflection and prayer. Wallis, the new steward of the abbey, adds an air of intrigue with his enigmatic presence.
In addition to the primary characters, a diverse array of secondary characters plays essential roles in the unfolding narrative. Each of these characters brings unique perspectives and desires that intricately influence the plot, adding layers of complexity and driving the story forward in unexpected ways. Their interactions and relationships enrich the overall experience, creating a vibrant world that really enthrals the reader.
Pettersen’s use of Anglo-Saxon terms and phrases adds authenticity to the narrative. To aid readers, a glossary is provided at the beginning of the book; however, the selected terms can often be inferred from the context, making them easily accessible. This clever use of language not only contributes to the overall ambience of the Anglo-Saxon period but also immerses readers in the unique cultural and linguistic nuances of that specific time. The authenticity of the dialogue and descriptions truly brings the era to life, allowing readers to experience the richness of the past in a vivid and engaging way.
The attention to historical detail—in this book and throughout the series—is truly commendable. Pettersen has obviously dedicated extensive hours to researching the era, delving into the sociopolitical climate, culture, and daily life of the time. Each character is grounded in the realities of the historical context, which enhances the narrative’s authenticity. While some aspects of the lives depicted may not be extensively documented in the historical archives, the depth of detail and the imagined experiences add richness to the storyline, making it both informative and engaging for readers interested in this fascinating era.
Although this is the fifth instalment in the series, it stands confidently on its own, offering a unique and captivating experience for both new readers and long-time fans alike. Pettersen’s rich character development and vivid descriptions transport readers to a time of great upheaval and intrigue, making “Ravens Hill” a welcome inclusion in the Atheling Chronicles series.
This book comes highly recommended.
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Take Care,
Mary Anne xxx