Wealtheow: Her Telling of Beowulf

In Ashley Crownover’s debut, the classic tale of Beowulf is retold from the perspective of Wealtheow, Queen of the Danes. After centuries of silence, Wealtheow provides a woman’s perspective on the issues facing her people, raising intriguing literary questions in a readable, modern writing style.

As a young bride, Wealtheow is thrust into the role of “Peaceweaver” to prevent war between the Danes and Helmings, marrying Hrothgar, the renowned king of the Danes. She struggles to provide an heir and to serve her people. The skies darken with ominous foreboding, as their lives are suddenly ripped apart by the terror of a vengeful and unconquerable beast that destroys their illusion of invulnerability. Through years of hardship, she leads her people playing a pivotal role in their redemption at the hand of the hero Beowulf.