Self Published Novel about the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 is a Must Read
Through the perspective of Oswulf the Englishman, “1066” provides a unique and compelling look into of the Norman conquest of England. If you are looking for an introduction to this period in history, this is the perfect book.
The narrator, a monk, takes the reader behind the scenes to experience the schemes, alliances, and power struggles that helped shape this pivotal time in Anglo Saxon history. Of course, the Monk is the “Forest Gump” of the novel. He happens to be everywhere important during the time period covered.
The use of the fiction genre for books about the medieval period is perfect. While we know a lot about 1066, there is much that is lost to history. Historians often speculate on what may or may not have happened and carefully footnote their speculations. That makes good and accurate scholarship, but it makes pretty boring reading for the casual reader. Fictionalizing the story a bit makes a difficult period in history come alive.
Of course it is good to know what is fact and what is fiction in books in this genre, but just read this book as a novel for fun and know that the basics of the story are historically correct.
The novel begins: “When the long-haired star appeared in the heavens a week and a day after Easter in the year of Our Lord 1066, all God-fearing men knew that it was meant to portend some great event in the history of mankind.”
The foreshadowing proved true. When King Edward died at the beginning of 1066, the lack of a clear successor resulted in an epic power struggle. While English aristocrat Harold II ascended to the throne of England, his reign was immediately challenged. His strongest opponent was Duke William II of Normandy, who would later be known as William the Conqueror. He ultimately defeated Harold II on October 14 at the legendary Battle of Hastings.
As it happens most often, history is more interesting than just about any fictional situation. The stories about the Norman conquest of England in 1066 is no exception. While filled with all of the intrigue and passion of a good novel to make the story more interesting, the basic story line rivals anything in fiction. The incredible twits of fate that resulted in William’s victory created a dynasty that has lasted to the present day.
Equally as remarkable as the story itself, the book is self-published. Earning its rightful place among more traditional publications, “1066” is available on Amazon.com as well as traditional retailers like Barnes & Noble.