By Her Hand

Set in 10th-century Mercia, this compelling debut historical novel follows young Freda as she navigates a war-torn world, seeking her voice and independence through writing and resilience. When tragedy strikes her village, she is taken in by the church and learns to read and write, but her growing desire for agency challenges those around her. With the support of influential figures like Ethelflæd, Lady of the Mercians, Freda faces a pivotal choice between submission and self-empowerment, in a story praised for its vivid storytelling, feminist themes, and emotional depth.