The Edge on the Sword

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Summary: One of the Best Historical Fiction Novels I've ever read
Review: AEthelflaed (or Flaed for short) lives in late 9th century England. At 15 she lives a happy life as the Kings daughter and a wannabe scholar. But when she learns that her father has, for political reasons, betrothed her to a man she's never met before she watches in shock as the little freedom she has left drifts away. Her father hires a guard named Red to protect her. In the beginning Flaed finds ways to escape from his watchful gaze but when something horrible happens Flaed realizes the seriousness of the situation she's in. Red teaches her how to defend herself, how to fight and use a shield. But when her skills are put to the test will she emerge victorious?

This is truly one of the best historical fiction novels I've ever read. Based on the real life story of one of England's most influential women, The Edge on the Sword weaves a wonderful tale of a strong young girl and her life. I recommend this books to fans of such historical novels as Anna of Byzantium and medieval novels such as the Crown and Court Duel.

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Summary: An exciting historical fiction novel set many centuries ago.
Review: Flaed lives with the constant threat that the enemies of her father, the famous Alfred, may attack the castle and bring about the ultimate end to her family and her people. It's the late 800's, and Flaed and her brother, Edward, are training to be warriors if the invaders may come. When her father tells Flaed that she must marry to insure the safety of the kingdom, Flaed is hesitant. She's not yet ready to give up a life of freedom in her father's castle. But everything begins to change when she gets a new, gruff bodyguard named Red. Red is a wise and strong guardian, and Flaed is assigned to him in learning how to use her sword and fight enemies. Soon, she begins to trust Red as a friend, and their acquaintance is strong. Red has strongly taught her how to protect herself. But what will Flaed's decision be when she realizes that she must protect not only herself, but the entire country if the time will someday come?
What victories -- and losses -- will Flaed have to somehow overcome? The Edge On The Sword is well-written, powerful historical fiction that moves at a blazing pace of adventure. It's highly enjoyable and highly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: An ok read...
Review: I expected a lot more than I got from this book. The back cover made it sound like an interesting journey, of a feminist young girl, but ended up sounding like something I would write. (Meaning, it wasn't written very well) A good story, but not for anyone over the age of 11.

Rating:
Summary: The Edge on the Sword is Pure Gold
Review: I first found this book in my local library and, being a lover of 9th and 10th century England, decided to give the book a try. From the first chapter I knew this book was honest and exhillerating.
The Edge on the Sword describes the early teenaged years of a young and spunky princess named Flaed who is pledged to marry one of her father's friends who lives far away.
To protect his daughter, King Alfred enlistes the help of Red, a war-hardened soldier who teaches Flaed about life and the art of war. Flaed learns to defend herself as she grows closer and closer to her protector. Red's devotion to protecting Flaed is soon put to the test as everyone fears for their lives.
A brilliant and eloquent piece of literature, The Edge on the Sword is an exciting and bittersweet tribute to the strong-willed who must press on through incredible hardship and pain.

Rating:
Summary: The Edge on the Sword is Pure Gold
Review: I listened to the audiobook of this novel and found myself looking forward to my next road trip to continue the story. I found it so addicting, I now want to purchase the hardcopy to be able to experience it again!

Rating:
Summary: an awsome book
Review: this book is a page turner start and you can't stop

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Summary: The Edge on the Sword
Review: This book is an absolute gem, beautifully capturing the spirit of our young heroine. Aethelflaed is 15 years old when her father engages her to Ethelred, another king and one of his friends. Flaed is reluctant to leave her home, and she's also upset by the guardian her father has assigned to watch over her, Red. However, he later teaches Flaed how to defend herself using knives, swords and military tactic. The author never lets the pace slow, and it's very difficult to put this book down. With detailed descriptions, creative heroes & heroines, and a quick, exciting plot, "The Edge on the Sword" is a wonderful, must-read novel.

Rating:
Summary: The Edge on The Sword
Review: When I first got this book I thought that it would be good, something worth reading. Not that it was bad, but the book took way to long to develop into anything. It was very simply, it is simply not wonderful... There wasn't a big calsh, there wasn't something to enchant you, into the book, so you cant put it down. It was just too simple. Though the fighting scenes were well illustrated. I was personaly disapointed.