The true story of a powerful Knight and a runaway Queen who unite to defy an empire.
by D.H. Morris
Genre: Historical
Fiction
"The Girl of Many Crowns" is the true and inspiring story of Judith, the first princess of France, who is a pawn in a complex political game of chess as her father, King Charles, tries to hold on to his kingdom. King Charles, grandson of Emperor Charlemagne, is beset on every side by Vikings, rebel lords, and greedy neighboring monarchs. He marries 12-year-old Judith to Aethelwulf, the aging King of Wessex, for political advantage. When she is widowed less than two years later, he arranges a second marriage for her. But, when Judith refuses to marry a third time at her father's command, King Charles imprisons her in one of his palaces.
Baldwin Iron Arm is a powerful knight from Flanders
who pledges loyalty to King Charles and his family. As the companion of
Judith's brother, Louis, he fulfills his oath by protecting King Charles'
family from Vikings, rebel lords, wars, and assassination plots. He is
conflicted when he must choose between obeying the king and rescuing his
daughter Judith from her imprisonment.
Describe yourself in 5 words or less! Serious thinker
Do you have a favorite movie? Black and white classics
Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie? The Girl of Many Crowns has already drawn attention and discussions about possible mini-series.
As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal? A Yorkie
What did you enjoy most about writing this book? I enjoyed it most, discovering all the surprising historical turn of events that happened in this story. They were exciting, delightful, and hysterical. I kept telling myself you can’t even make this stuff up. Fact is stranger than fiction.
Tell us about your main characters- what makes them tick? Baldwin wanted to serve his king and country and protect the people. He was truly altruistic. Judith had a similar mindset although she did it in a different way. Her original sole goal was to help her father and serve him in his kingdom, but in the end, she had to choose between her desire to serve her father and not compromising herself.
If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead? No, Judith was a young girl in the book.
Anything specific you want to tell your readers? Write your own family history stories. Let other descendants read about their family stories.
What is your favorite part of this book and why? When Baldwin finally tells Judith how he feels about her.
If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day? I would love to meet, interview, and pick the minds of all of the characters in the book. But if there were only one, I could meet it would be Baldwin to watch him training for battle. To see his horsemanship and learn more about his battle style.
Have you written any other books that are not published? Yes. I have 1 children’s book I wrote for my children that is not published and 1 planned educational book that is my personal teaching method for teaching children to read. It has worked well for my family, friends, and neighbors. I also am starting on the Prequel to The Girls of Many Crowns. I also collaborated on writing the book and lyrics for a musical version of Pride and Prejudice.
If your book had a candle, what scent would it be? It would be spice, intrigue, maybe a hint of sweet… I guess a Sandalwood scented candle.
What made you decide to get the book made into an audiobook? I know several people that prefer that format and I felt that it could reach more readers by having an audiobook version.
Who did the narration on the audiobook and what made you choose them? I chose to do it myself with an AI assist as I have training in audio recording.
What goes into making an audiobook? Lots of hours of recording sessions and making sure you are in the right environment for recording.
How many audiobooks do you currently have and are there any more on the horizon? This is my first audiobook, but when I finish the prequel, I will do another audiobook.
What’s the biggest challenge about producing an audiobook? Making sure the recording is just right.
Do you prefer to listen to audiobooks or read a book? Read a book
How long have you been writing? I’ve enjoyed writing ever since I was a child.
What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book? I use everything from the internet, to going to the library. I use every possible resource I can find including dissertations or master theses. I research the era, the food, and the medicine before I write about it. I am someone that is very uncomfortable writing about things I do not understand. So, I immerse myself in research before beginning writing.
Do you see writing as a career?
What do you think about the current publishing market? It’s a complicated market that takes a lot of time and research to understand. It’s not something easily done overnight.
Do you read yourself and if so, what is your favorite genre? I like anything well written. I am very eclectic in my reading. My favorite would probably be Historical Fiction, Mystery, and Fantasy.
Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? I prefer to write in silence so that I am not easily distracted.
Pen or type writer or computer? Used to always be pen, but now I have transitioned to computer.
A day in the life of the author? No two days are the same. I start my mornings with my husband and Yorkie. My husband and I like to play puzzle games together. I do my best writing in the mornings so this is a good time to write. Then I work through my schedule whether it is shopping or chores that need to be done, appointments or events I have, family management tasks, or researching my next novel. Then I end my day with doing a puzzle with my husband and relaxing with my Yorkie, Max. Sometimes we will watch a movie before we go to bed.
Advice they would give new authors? Learn to love rewriting, because that is where your manuscript goes from a good idea into a polished gem. Don’t be afraid of constructive criticism, use it to make your writing better. Also remember that not everyone will understand your journey so keep working on your manuscript and keep submitting it for review.
What is your writing process? For instance, do you do an outline first? Do you do the chapters first? What are common traps for aspiring writers? This book was different as the outline was already provided for me by history. It was basically reading about the events that occurred during that year and making sense of it in my own mind, then sleeping on it, and I would write about it in the morning. If you want to write just to be a popular author, then you have to follow what the trend of the day is and do what other authors are doing. If you want to create something special and unique, then you can’t do what everyone else is doing.
What is your writing Kryptonite? Overthinking is my Kryptonite. I think you just have to start writing. The process of writing organizes your thoughts. As you get into the writing process, it all starts coming together. The initial writings are you just organizing your mind and you will most likely throw out anyways. So, if there is a phrase or anything that sparks your imagination then just start writing it.
EXCERPT
Gauzlin gave valuable instruction as they walked. “The king is consulting with John Scotus, an Irish scholar and adviser to the king. They are discussing the upcoming summer assembly. Every summer, nobles from all over the kingdom gather to discuss current laws and vote on any changes proposed by the king.”
Gauzlin paused before a double door with a posted guard. “We will enter when admitted by the keeper of the door and wait at the back of the room until we are summoned forward. This is no time for cowardice, young Baldwin. Do not speak unless the king speaks directly to you. But if he asks you a question, speak boldly and clearly. Speak your mind and speak truth. It is what the king expects and what he admires.” They presented themselves to the keeper of the door for admittance.
The throne room was long and spacious, with a large table off to one side. Mirroring the detailed carving of the throne itself, the ceiling was arched with intricate wood inlay. Behind the throne, the wall displayed Francia’s royal banner–blue, with gold embroidery and fringe. From Baldwin’s vantage, King Charles appeared to be in his late thirties, tall and slender. His brown hair and beard had a reddish tint, and he wore a pale blue tunic with purple leggings denoting his status as king.
King Charles’ demeanor was thoughtful but confident as he deliberated with his silver-haired counselor. Whether sitting or pacing restlessly about the room, it was evident that the king was in command. When the discussion concerning the next assembly ended, King Charles beckoned Gauzlin and Baldwin forward. The aged scholar, John Scotus, examined Baldwin with eager curiosity. Determined not to reveal his nervousness, Baldwin followed Gauzlin’s lead, bowing deeply until the king addressed them.
“So, this is the ‘Iron Arm?’” King Charles stood and approached Baldwin. “You are accomplished in all forms of battle?”
“Yes, Sire. I have experience in fighting the Viking raiders.” Baldwin spoke with what he hoped was the right amount of boldness.
“Have you learned to read?” the king wished to know.
“Sire, my mother saw to it that I was well instructed in reading, arithmetic, military tactics, history, manners, and music.”
“Excellent. I wish all in my kingdom were as well educated. Perhaps, someday, we will be able to spend more time on learning and less on war.” The king exchanged a meaningful glance with John Scotus.
“And your mother, how does she fare?” King Charles inquired.
“She fares well, my King,” was Baldwin’s reply.
“Has she kinsmen to look out for her interests?”
“Yes, Sire.”
“Then, I hope you will stay and serve our court for some long time, Baldwin Iron Arm,” the king continued, seemingly pleased. “Will you pledge loyalty to me, Baldwin?”
“I will gladly, Sire,” Baldwin answered confidently, placing his closed fist over his heart.
“For that, I thank you, young knight. I have seven children, and the queen is even now great with child. Will you also pledge to defend my family?”
“I pledge to defend them with my life, Sire.” The conviction in Baldwin’s voice rang true.
“Many dangers threaten our kingdom, demanding all our cunning and resources to keep them at bay. I need someone with your talents to help my son Louis prepare to someday lead an army in battle–and survive. Louis will shortly be crowned king of Neustria. I will appoint administrators for him over Neustria until he is prepared to assume control. In the interim, he will need to become a leader of men, on and off the battlefield.”
The king paused as if considering and then spoke with decisiveness. “I desire you to play a role in my son’s development. I offer you the position of companion, defender, and arms instructor of Prince Louis. Will you pledge to faithfully train Prince Louis in the very arts of battle you have mastered and defend him with your life, if necessary?”
Baldwin was momentarily stunned into silence. This was neither what he had expected nor wished for when he had set out on his journey. He had been trained to fight, and he was eager to prove himself in battle against his king’s many foes. What did he know of teaching a child prince? But this was the employment he was being offered. Baldwin was wise enough to know that this assignment was not only a great responsibility but also a great honor. He could do nothing but accept it.
“Sire,” he promised with all sincerity. “I will devote all that I am to achieve the result you desire.”
“Well spoken, Baldwin Iron Arm,” the king looked pleased. “Gauzlin, give Baldwin every resource necessary to accomplish his assignment. Dress him as a member of the royal household. If he is to be the future king’s companion, he must look the part. Oh, and find him quarters within the palace, readily available to Prince Louis.”
The king moved toward his throne and then turned back, “Serve me well, young Baldwin Iron Arm, and you may become a count in your own right, as your father was before you.”
Gauzlin appeared pleased as they left the palace and began walking back toward the barracks. “You acquitted yourself well, young Baldwin,” he grinned. “King Charles likes you. What are your feelings after meeting the king?”
Book Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Many-Crowns-runaway-powerful-ebook/dp/B0DCQ7625M/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217336977-the-girl-of-many-crowns
Book Trailer:
About the Author
A native of San
Diego, California, D. H. Morris has lived on four continents and traveled
through many countries. She has four children and eleven grandchildren and
currently lives in Kansas City, Missouri. She graduated from Utah State
University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre and Choral Music education
and pursued graduate work in English at USU and law at the University of Utah.
She is also a published playwright.
As a descendant
of Judith and Baldwin, the author discovered their intriguing story while doing
a genealogical project. This journey inspired her to research everything about
the 9 th Century – including food, politics, travel, war, education, clothing, jewelry,
religion, holidays, marriage customs, and medicine. She loves talking about
this remarkable time in history when the European countries we know today were
being formed and fighting for their very existence.
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Author Links
Website: https://newclassicspublishing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565073373364&mibextid=LQQJ4d
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Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/D.-H.-Morris/author/B0DFBSN6TL
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17308028.D_H_Morris
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