Saxon against Viking. Christian against heathen.
The clash of sword and spear in war-torn 9th century England. Young men and women risking all to live – and to love.
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The Circle of Ceridwen Saga
The First Book of the Circle Saga Ceridwen
Young women with courage. Swords with names. Vikings with tattoos. Warfare. Passion. Survival. Sheep. And Other Good Things…
It is the year 871, when England was Angle-Land. Of seven Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, five have fallen to the invading Vikings. No trait is more valued than loyalty, and no possession more precious than one’s steel. Across this war-torn landscape travels fifteen year old Ceridwen, now thrust into the lives of the conquerors.
Lost in the frozen woods, Ceridwen is discovered by the warriors accompanying young Ælfwyn, daughter of a Saxon lord, sold against her will in marriage as part of a peace treaty with a marauding Viking war chief. Their destination is the captured fortress of Four Stones, a ruin holding glittering treasure. There Ælfwyn must keep her vow and wed Yrling – and Ceridwen must do all she can to support her new friend in the rebuilding of the ravaged village and great hall.
But living with the enemy affords Ceridwen unusual freedoms – and unlooked-for conflicts. Amongst them she explores again her own heathen past, and learns to judge each man on his own merits. Yrling’s nephews Sidroc and Toki, both formidable warriors yet as different as night and day, compete to win Ceridwen for their own.
Through both guile and goodness Ceridwen and Ælfwyn begin transforming the world of Four Stones. But the threat of full-scale war escalates, and a midnight party of furtive Danes delivers someone to Four Stones who destroys the girls’ hopes of peace and contentment. Now Ceridwen must summon all her courage – a courage which will be sorely tested as she defies both Saxon and Dane and undertakes an extraordinary adventure to save a man she has never met.
The first book of The Circle of Ceridwen Saga, the historical adventure saga enjoyed by thousands of readers in over 125 nations.
Meticulously researched and thrillingly brought to life
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Ceridwen Bk 1 was a great read. I loved the Old English. It has a reminiscent feel of The Last Ki geometry, which I love to watch. I’m looking forward to reading the remaining books to the saga. Thank you, Ms. Randolph for thus gem!
I absolutely love these books. The first book came recommended to me based on my Audible listening (Last Kingom / Outlander / Vikings fan here) and I gave it a go and I was addicted. I devoured each and every audiobook. I loved these so much I bought the books so I could read and on the second go I’m even more in love. I’m so happy to see that you’re continuing the saga, I just need to find out what happens!!! Thank you for bringing me into your world 🙂
I have loved reading the Circle of Ceridwen books; you are an amazing story teller! When may we hope for the next book after Waterborne?
This is a tale I hope never ends. It is one that I have fallen into in escape and it inspires me. I yearn for the simplicity of these much earlier years yet I am so grateful for the safety we have in our lives now.
I laugh and cry and relate to the characters. My heart races and I feel almost as though I am there through intense battles. You have given wonderful depth and complexity to your characters.
Thank you so much 🙏
I have now listened to the entire 10 book saga for the second time.. while doing housework and driving the mum taxi 🩷
The Saga will never end – until I do. And I am delighted you enjoy the great artistry of Nano Nagle, our wonderful narrator.
I can’t say enough how much I love you series of the circle. I love old England sagas, and yours I must say is the best! I love you linguistic wording of the times, it makes it ever so much more real! For a lack of anything to read, I may reread the whole series again! I just finished reading book 10 again, it is one of my favs of the series, and I never have a dry eye while reading. I cannot say how much I have enjoyed every book. Thank you for the awesome work you give to your readers!!
Your entertwining tale shows the perdpective of those caught up in conflict and change. . This particular historical period is one in which we see how conflicts and alliances were formed to try to bring a semblance of Justice and. Peace to everyone. It is the age old story of life. This perspective shows the interrelationships of the leaders of those societies and how they handled their respective kingdoms. And conquest As someone said, Your characters have become like family To those of us to have followed the story of this fascinating cast of characters. You have done an admirable job as a storyteller. Researching and and sharing the ways of life In early cultures that revolved around not just might amd conquest but in religious belief.and practice. It is a reminder of the value of the basics in life. Thank you for continuing the story. And thank you for all of the ancient information you bring forward and weaving the tale
Will there be another book after Water Borne in the Circle of Ceridwen series?
Rest assured I am writing Book Eleven now, and hope to have that in your hands next year, 2024. And just so you know, I do not plan to end the series. As I have told long time readers, I shall keep writing just as long as they keep reading. Thank you for your devotion to my work!
Fabulous news!!! I have loved every single book. I can’t wait for Book 11.
This is fantastic news! Thank you.
An outstanding series of books. When the characters become family members instead of just book characters that is when you know you are hooked. I think about the all the time. I am reading Silver Hammer Golden Cross now. I have loved all of them so far, I listen on my commutes and I know that people driving past me think I’m crazy when I’m laughing, cheering, crying on my drive! Nano Nagel is amazing, her performance is top notch and I never think about someone telling me a story, her voice makes it real! Thank you for transporting me from LA traffic to such a rich and historic place! I am sad when each book ends, I am going to have to go to therapy when the series ends!
I am so glad you are enjoying the immense artistry of Nano Nagle – “the Voice of the Saga”! And fear not, the Saga novels will not end – until I do.
I just finished book ten. It left me wanting more books to the circle. You are a master of your craft! Think I’ll start them again. Thank you for taking me back in time!
I’m currently reading Silver Hammer Golden Cross . . .I can’t read it fast enough!! I’ve cried already. Walked about mumbling about the characters so much that my husband thinks there’s something wrong with me LOL and then I explain it to him! Oh my stars what a saga indeed!! I never want it to end!! Thank you Octavia for recreating this magnificent world – you transport me back in time every time I open one of your books!
Very grateful for your kind words, Missie! Silver Hammer is in fact my favourite of all the Saga stories, for the ways in which Ceric, Ashild, and Hrald meet the life and death challenges they are faced with.
Charming, perfectly written and read. Highly recommended.
Just finished book 9 and it was wonderful but really left the reader hanging. It’s painful. When will book 10 be ready.
Please tell me that Book 9 is on the way! I need to know what happens next, I’m so invested in these characters!
I don’t think I’ve ever sobbed as much over a character as I did over the plot twist in book 8. Your ability to make your characters so complex and real, as well as your vivid descriptions of scenes ensure any reader’s ability to empathize with characters and their choices—and fates. I covet every reader just beginning your unforgettable series—and you are a major reason historical fiction is the best literary genre!
I have now read many Dane/Nordic period books my many authors.
I have to say Octavia that yours are my favourites and have read your series many times. They are well crafted and well researched. The characters are depicted with much accuracy so much so that they really come to life, not unlike Jane Austen characters.
I have now changed this entry in the hope that it will be submitted. I did appreciate the answer when I tried to submit a query on shield maidens.
I really am enthralled by these books.
Regards
Gloria
I just finished book 7 and my heart is so full. These books are wonderful in their storytelling and language, and the history is breathtakingly good. I am truly hoping that you will continue the saga, as these characters have become my friends. I eagerly await news of an 8th book! Thank you for sharing them with us, and for using your creative gift. What an absolute pleasure it is to read your stories. Cheers!
Read the series, just finished Wildswept, hope your working on another book, what will happen to Ashild and Cerwic? Aelfwyn and Raedwuef and more of Ceridwen and Sidroc. Loved the books!
I am enthralled with this series. I have read every book and enjoyed each more than the last. I can’t wait for the next book to be released. There is a next, isn’t there? I don’t re-read books, but I will for sure re-read each of the books in this series.
Looking for a great book to read here it is. I read book 2, great story line. The Cirlce of Ceriowen has strong characters with adventure and great romance. Really enjoy the book.
Enjoyed this saga. Look forward to reading more.
Just finished book 6, will there be a book 7? I feel like I’m in limbo
Loved the first two books couldn’t put them down. Can’t wait to start the next book. Thought this would be a great series to read over the winter!! At this rate I’ll be done before winter even gets here.
Gasp! Where’s book 7???? Sidroc HAS to get back to Ceridwen!
I am trying to find this saga in French… is the translation available?
Pas encore, Pierrette, je suis désolé! I have had many kind requests for a French translation, for both Canadian and French readers. It is a big undertaking, There are now Seven Saga novels, so that is a large number. Finding good translators who can take on such an immense job in these languages, while keeping to the rhythm and cadence of the original, giving it the archaic flavour which makes it the Saga, would be hard to do. (And the cost.) But I know you and many wonderful French readers are out there, wanting it! If you know of a good & experienced translator, please tell me; that would help.
I loved the series! I enjoy the historical aspect of life and war of the time very much. I liked them all but truly enjoyed Tindr and Sidroc the Dane but believe I liked Silver Hammer Golden Cross the best. As Sidroc demonstrated, I believe Octavia’s skills are growing and expanding with each book. I certainly hope to see more in the series!
I’m hooked! I am thoroughly enjoying each book! The author brings life to the characters, and I can imagine the primitive landscape and the difficult life in the 9th century. Faith, love, war, and living in peace, are constant guides into an uncertain future. A time in which women had to be stronger, resilient, and brave. Excellent read!
I love the series and I am anxious for book 7!
Waiting for book 7 which was to be ready in April. It’s April : what is the title?
Can’t wait….,
I have read book one and now am audio-listening to book two. This book grips my heart and I have cried listening to this story. I love this book and I have all of them in my wishlist on Audible.com. I too can see this as a mini-series much like the Outlander series. I hope this will happen.
Read the whole series – very enjoyable – mostly well written – great descriptions feel like you are really there – want another book to see what happens to Ceridwen, Ashild, Hrald, Ceric and Sidroc and Elfwyn. Great bunch of characters. Book 6 very good with tying things up during the start of the war. Some surprises which keeps the interest.
I have only just started this series (just finished the first book) and I am already obsessed with it. Cant wait to continue the journey when I start the second book. I really hope there is a tv or movie series in the pipe work for this saga and if so please look at Australian actress Isla Fisher to play Ceridwen. She is exactly what comes to mind when I envision her while reading this book. Thank you for such an amazing read!!
Enjoyed all the books and am waiting for the next
I just finished book 6 and I’m already in withdrawal, anxiously awaiting a 7th book. What a beautifully written saga from all points of view. You’ve drawn us in to each character in such a way we want, no – ” need” to know what happens next. Please continue this series, and beautifully written and expanded characters. I almost feel as if they are family. Bravo!
Just finished book 6. What a rich & entertaining saga. Although I can see this as an end I do hope there will be a 7th. Please confirm. Thanks again.
I just started reading the saga hearing how wonderful they are from others in a Facebook book club I’m a member of. I’m starting book 4 now after devouring books 1-3 in a matter of a couple weeks. I am enthralled! Wonderful story, so vivid in your descriptions of each character. I must say though I’ve been a fan of Sidroc’s from the very beginning. Seeing that book 6 is the end and reading the comments about Sidroc, I do pray there is a book 7!
Please can you let me know if book 5 & 6 will be on audible soon. Very keen to read on. Love the books.
I am in love with the saga. On book four. Thank you also for being so enthusiasts on the time period and the places where these stories take place. I so appreciate your videos on the website. Thank you.
I loved all 6 books and am looking forward to book 7! Please tell me there is a book 7!!
Like Alesia, I have thoroughly enjoyed all six books in the saga. From the descriptions of Gotland (I live in a similar land in Interior Alaska), to “thrummy” – yes, I’ve thrummed mittens (which are quite warm compared to regular knitting), I find them authentic and compelling. I feared for the characters in book six, but am pleased with the way you wove the story. Now I find myself yearning for more. Will there be a book seven? I sure hope so…..
I have been riveted to the Audible versions of the first four books and would love to hear the next two. Are they in the pipeline for Audible?
Me also, exactly! The audible versions are enthralling!
I’ve just finished reading the first book of the Saga. It’s marvelous! I’am looking forward to read the next one! Lydia
just finished the 6th book of The Circle of Ceridwen. I lovex them. Please tell me there will be more.
Looking forward to diving into the first book!
Just finished reading book 6… Soooo ready for book 7!!!
I absolutely love this saga and have passed it along to my circle of Jessica (those friends of mine who love books as I do). I hate to bother you with questions but I haven’t been able to find an answer online, will there be a book 7 to come? In any case, than you for the wonderful break from middling books and for the wonderful world you’ve created for me to enter into. These books have helped me get through more than I can say.
Really enjoyed the book interesting view of the people and times . Looking forward to the next one thank you
My friend sent me the link and recommended I read this book. I enjoyed getting lost in another time with characters that live. A wonderful story and writing style.