The Song of Heledd

By Judith Arnopp,

Book cover of The Song of Heledd: At the Hall of Cynddylan

Book description

In seventh century Powys at the hall of King Cynddylan of Pengwern, the princesses, Heledd and Ffreur attend a celebratory feast where fifteen-year-old Heledd develops an infatuation for a travelling minstrel. Their illicit liaison triggers a chain of events that will destroy two kingdoms and bring down a dynasty. Set…

Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Why read it?

1 author picked The Song of Heledd as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

This is another historical novel set in my favourite time period AD 600’s, this time in Powys. The main character is Heledd – a peace-weaver bride, she is human, flawed, compelling, and courageous. The background detail is vivid and well researched, but what I love most about this book is the lyrical style of writing, which may almost give the reader the sense that the story is being sung,  reflecting with feeling and humanity, the real Anglo-Saxon poetry that has come down to us. Here is a powerful sense of sadness, regret, and gathering doom, lifted by moments of pure…

From Theresa's list on throwing light into the Dark Ages.

Want books like The Song of Heledd?

Our community of 10,000+ authors has personally recommended 61 books like The Song of Heledd.

Browse books like The Song of Heledd

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in Wales, the Dark Ages, and London?

10,000+ authors have recommended their favorite books and what they love about them. Browse their picks for the best books about Wales, the Dark Ages, and London.

Wales Explore 50 books about Wales
The Dark Ages Explore 17 books about the Dark Ages
London Explore 772 books about London