About the Author

I write the kind of book I want to read myself. I write about history as a way to better understand my own times. I write about people who are far better, and (I hope) far worse than myself. And beautiful objects inspire me: the hand-carved combs, skilfully wrought swords, and gemmed goblets of the world of The Circle of Ceridwen Saga. Almost everything interests me; I've studied Anglo-Saxon and Norse runes, and learnt to spin with a drop spindle. My path has led to extensive on-site research in England, Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, and Gotland - some of the most wonderful places on Earth. My other works include the novella The Tale of Melkorka, based on a story from the Icelandic Sagas, and Ride: A Novella, a retelling of the story of Lady Godiva, first published in Narrative Magazine. I've been the fortunate recipient of fellowships at the MacDowell Colony, Ledig House International, and Byrdcliffe. Hearing from readers is a special pleasure and I always answer my letters. So write to me! www.octavia.net is my website