Blood on the Tide with David, Burh Commandant of Chichester: An Exclusive Character Interview

 In this exclusive interview, we step into the war-torn world of David, Burh Commandant of Chichester, a pivotal figure in The Briton and the Dane trilogy. From covert missions to commanding burhs and battling on the high seas, David shares his reflections on loyalty, warfare, and the cost of peace.

Interviewer: David, thank you for joining us. Can you tell us a bit about your upbringing and how you came to serve under Lord Richard?

David: It’s an honor to speak with you. I was raised in a household steeped in duty and discipline. My father, Lord Richard, served King Alfred with unwavering loyalty, and my elder brother Stephen was already a seasoned warrior by the time I came of age. I learned early that service to the realm was not a choice, it was a calling.

Interviewer: In the first book, you infiltrated King Guthrum’s camp after the peace treaty. What was that experience like?

David: Dangerous. The peace was fragile, and trust was scarce. I lived among men who would’ve slit my throat had they known who I was. But I had to understand their movements, their morale. Every night was a gamble. I returned to Wareham with valuable intelligence, but also with a deeper understanding of the enemy.

Interviewer: You later commanded the burh of Chichester. What did that responsibility mean to you?

David: It meant everything. To be entrusted with a burh was to be given the lives of its people. I had to earn their trust, defend their homes, and prepare them for war. It wasn’t just about tactics, it was about leadership, about standing firm when others faltered.

Interviewer: In The Briton and the Dane: Legacy, you face a sea invasion. How did you prepare for battle on the water?

David: Fighting on land is one thing. Fighting on a ship, where the deck shifts beneath your feet and the wind steals your breath, is another. We trained relentlessly. Balance, timing, coordination; it all had to be recalibrated. The sea is unforgiving, and so were our foes.

Interviewer: You’ve built alliances with Danes over the years. How did those relationships shape your perspective?

David: War teaches you to see beyond banners. I met men among the Danes who valued honor as much as any Saxon. Friendship forged in fire is stronger than blood. Those bonds reminded me that peace is possible, but only if we fight for it.

Interviewer: What do you believe is the greatest misconception about warfare during your time?

David: That it’s glorious. It’s not. It’s cold, brutal, and often senseless. Glory fades. What remains are the scars, On the land, on the soul. True warriors fight not for fame, but for those who cannot defend themselves.

Interviewer: What drives you to keep fighting, even when peace seems out of reach?

David: Duty. Legacy. The hope that my sons will inherit a world less fractured than mine. I fight so they won’t have to. And if our Lord demands sacrifice, let it be mine, not theirs.

Interviewer: David, thank you for sharing your story. Before we close, is there anything you’d like readers to know about the battles ahead?

David: Only this, when the tide rises and the storm breaks, remember that courage is not the absence of fear, but the will to stand when others fall. The final reckoning is near. And I will not yield.

Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link

http://mybook.to/tbatdlegacy

Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/mek0jY

 

Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

Connect with Mary Ann:

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon author page http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

Linked-In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads:  https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky:  https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social

 

 

The Briton and the Dane by Mary Ann Bernal – A Cinematic Legacy Begins

 The Norse threat looms. Saxon England trembles. A young woman stands at the crossroads of war, love, and treachery.

 Watch the Trailer

 Step into the storm, where shadowed alliances and whispered secrets shape destiny.

   

Beneath the Crown: Where Honor Fractures and Love Defies War.

Before the conquest, there was longing. Before the betrayal, trust. The Briton and the Dane opens this epic saga with a tale of forbidden connection and political intrigue. A young woman, caught between kingdoms and loyalties, clings to the memory of a prince,her enemy, her salvation, and the only one who truly saw her.

This quiet moment, where love dares to bloom in the shadow of war, captures the soul of The Briton and the Dane. It’s a story of defiance. Of how loyalty can be a weapon, and betrayal a path to truth.

A Note from the Author

I wrote The Briton and the Dane to explore the fragile threads of trust and the cost of survival in a world torn by conquest. It was my first published novel, and the beginning of a journey that continues to this day. This trailer invites you to witness the choices that shaped a legacy, and the woman who dared to choose her own fate.

About the Book

A lurking shadow. A whispered secret. A veiled betrayal.

As Norse invaders threaten Saxon England, a young woman is captured and thrust into a web of ambition and deceit. Allies vanish. Truths twist. And the memory of a prince, her enemy and her only solace, haunts her every step.

In a world where loyalty can cost a life and silence is survival, she must decide: surrender to fate, or fight for her own voice.

The Briton and the Dane is a sweeping historical drama that explores love, honor, and the perilous cost of defiance in a time of war.

Ready to Read?

 Step into Saxon England. Witness the beginning.

 Buy the Book

 Amazon Link:

http://mybook.to/TBATD

 Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/bMJGwa

 Learn more at

https://maryannbernal.com

 

 

Strength in Stillness with Jora: An Exclusive Character Interview

 In this special feature, we meet Jora, a young woman of Danish descent whose life has been shaped by loss, resilience, and the clash of cultures. Wise beyond her years, Jora offers her reflections on faith, loyalty, and the pursuit of peace in a time of upheaval.

Interviewer: Jora, thank you for joining us. Could you begin by telling us about your early life and how it shaped the person you are today?

Jora: My childhood ended too soon. When my parents fell in battle, I was left to find my place in a world that often-showed little mercy. Yet grief taught me endurance, and hardship taught me to listen. Those lessons shaped me into someone who values patience and quiet strength.

Interviewer: You grew up surrounded by both pagan traditions and Christian teachings. How did you come to understand these two different paths?

Jora: At first, I felt torn between them. But over time, I realized both seek to explain the mysteries of life and death. The old ways honor the ancestors and the earth, while the new faith speaks of forgiveness and hope. I do not see them as enemies, but as voices in the same great conversation.

Interviewer: You are known for calming tempers when anger flares. How do you manage to bring peace in such moments?

Jora: Anger feeds on anger. I have learned to meet it with stillness. Sometimes a steady gaze or a quiet word can cool a storm more quickly than a shout. It is not always easy, but I believe true strength lies in restraint, not in rage.

Interviewer: At times, you have been asked to observe and share what you see. How do you reconcile such a role with your own sense of loyalty?

Jora: Loyalty is not blind. To me, it means standing with what is just, even when it is difficult. When I choose to speak, it is not to betray, but to protect. My heart seeks peace, and I will not remain silent if silence leads to ruin.

Interviewer: You once accompanied a noblewoman to an abbey, where she was guided in study. What did that experience mean to you?

Jora: It opened my eyes to the power of learning. Within those walls, I saw how knowledge can steady the restless heart. It deepened my belief that education is a gift that should belong to all, not only to a chosen few.

Interviewer: Living between two cultures, what do you believe is the greatest challenge and the greatest hope for coexistence?

Jora: The greatest challenge is fear, fear of losing one’s ways, one’s gods, one’s place. But the greatest hope is understanding. When people see that strength can be shared, that peace brings more than endless war, then coexistence becomes possible.

Interviewer: Jora, thank you for sharing your thoughts. Before we conclude, is there one message you would like readers to take from your story?

Jora: Yes, that even in the midst of conflict, one may choose peace. Even when born into sorrow, one may choose wisdom. Our choices, not our chains, define who we are.

 

Purchase Links

 Amazon Global Link

http://mybook.to/tbatdbirthright

Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/mKwOOZ

 

Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

Connect with Mary Ann:

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon author page http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

Linked-In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads:  https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky:  https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social

 

 

Wulfgar of Wessex: A Resolute Virtual Character Interview from The Briton and the Dane

 He’s a rider, a messenger, and a man who carries England’s fate in his saddlebag. Now, Wulfgar of Wessex speaks for himself in a format as steadfast as his duty.

This AI-generated virtual character interview brings Wulfgar to life with vivid realism. His words echo the weight of loyalty, his journeys reveal the peril of service, and his reflections remind us that even the swiftest rider cannot outrun sorrow. It’s not just an interview—it’s a glimpse into the endurance of faith and honor in a time of war.

Watch the full interview here: 

This is part of our ongoing series exploring the world of The Briton and the Dane through immersive storytelling. Each character adds depth to Alfred’s England, and Wulfgar’s appearance reminds us that even the humblest servant can shape the destiny of a kingdom.

 Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link:

http://mybook.to/tbatd

Universal Link:

https://books2read.com/u/bMJGwa

Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

Connect with Mary Ann

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X (Twitter): https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social

Helga of East Anglia: A Poignant Virtual Character Interview from The Briton and the Dane

 

She is a daughter of two worlds, torn between blood and belonging. Now, Helga of East Anglia speaks for herself in a format as heartfelt as her journey.

This AI-generated virtual character interview brings Helga to life with striking realism. Her voice carries the weight of divided loyalties, her choices reveal the cost of love across enemy lines, and her words remind us that even in war, the heart still seeks peace. It’s not just an interview—it’s a meditation on identity, loyalty, and the fragile hope of reconciliation.

Watch the full interview here:

This is part of our ongoing series exploring the world of The Briton and the Dane through immersive storytelling. Each character adds depth to Alfred’s England, and Helga’s appearance reminds us that even in times of conflict, compassion can bridge the deepest divides.

Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link:

http://mybook.to/tbatd

Universal Link:

https://books2read.com/u/bMJGwa

 

Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

Connect with Mary Ann

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X (Twitter): https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social

A Guiding Light in Tumultuous Times with Brother Martel: An Exclusive Character Interview

 In this special feature, we step into the world of The Briton and the Dane: Birthright to meet Brother Martel, a devoted man of faith whose path intertwines with kingdoms in conflict. Known for his wisdom and quiet strength, Brother Martel shares his reflections on duty, learning, and the balance between peace and defense.

Interviewer: Brother Martel, thank you for joining us. Could you begin by telling us about your background and the life you lead at your abbey?

Brother Martel: It is my honor. My days at the abbey are devoted to prayer, study, and the instruction of those who seek knowledge. The rhythm of the hours, the chanting of psalms, and the copying of sacred texts form the foundation of my life. It is a place of order and reflection, where the soul may find peace.

Interviewer: You were asked to provide guidance to a young woman of noble birth. What was your approach in helping her focus her mind during such turbulent times?

Brother Martel: Discipline of the mind is as vital as discipline of the body. I encouraged her to immerse herself in study, to see the beauty of words and the strength of contemplation. In this way, her spirit could be steadied, even when the world beyond the cloister walls was unsettled.

Interviewer: Your reputation suggests you are not only a man of prayer but also one who can wield a sword when necessary. How do you reconcile these two callings?

Brother Martel: The sword is a last resort, never a first. My true weapon is the Word, my true shield is faith. Yet, in a world where violence too often intrudes upon sanctity, one must sometimes defend the innocent. I do not glory in such acts, but I accept them as part of my duty.

Interviewer: What do you believe is the greatest misconception about men of the cloth during these times?

Brother Martel: Many think we are removed from the world, blind to its struggles. In truth, we are deeply aware. Our prayers are not idle words; they are intercessions for peace, for justice, for mercy. We are not untouched by suffering. We carry it with us in silence.

Interviewer: Your time in England has been marked by upheaval. What lessons have you drawn from witnessing these struggles firsthand?

Brother Martel: That kingdoms rise and fall, but the soul endures. Power is fleeting, yet virtue remains. I have seen courage in unexpected places, and I have learned that even in the shadow of war, there is light to be found in acts of kindness and fidelity.

Interviewer: You are soon to return to your abbey at Saint Gall. What do you hope to carry back with you from this journey?

Brother Martel: I will carry with me the memory of resilience, of those who stood firm when all seemed lost. I will also carry the reminder that faith must not be confined to cloisters alone. It must walk among the people, guiding them through both peace and peril.

Interviewer: Brother Martel, thank you for sharing your insights. Before we conclude, is there one message you would like readers to take from your story?

Brother Martel: Only this: that strength is not measured by the sword alone. True strength lies in steadfastness of spirit, in compassion, and in the courage to uphold what is just, even when the world trembles.

 

Purchase Links

 Amazon Global Link

http://mybook.to/tbatdbirthright

 Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/mKwOOZ

 

Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

Connect with Mary Ann:

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon author page http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

Linked-In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads:  https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky:  https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social

 

 

Between Two Worlds with Helga of East Anglia — An Exclusive Character Interview

 In this special interview, we meet Helga of East Anglia, a Norsewoman whose life is entwined with loyalty to her people and unexpected ties that cross cultural divides in The Briton and the Dane. Helga shares her struggles, her strength, and her hopes in a world torn by war and divided by faith.

Interviewer: Helga, thank you for joining us. Can you tell us about your background and how you came to be part of this conflict?

Helga: I was born on English soil, though my blood is Norse. From my earliest days, I lived between two worlds, never fully belonging to one or the other. By the time I was grown, the Norse were already settled in East Anglia under treaty with King Alfred. Even in uneasy peace, the struggle shaped every choice I made.

Interviewer: Many see the Norse only as raiders. What do you believe is most misunderstood about your people?
Helga: We are more than the clash of steel and the burning of villages. We are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters. We seek honor, yes, but also a place to belong. Too often, only the bloodshed is remembered, and not the bonds of kinship that guide us.

Interviewer: Your story is closely tied to others beyond your own people. How has that shaped your choices?
Helga: It has not been easy. To care for someone outside the shield wall is to live with constant fear—fear of discovery, fear of betrayal. Yet the heart does not ask permission before it binds itself.

Interviewer: What has been the greatest challenge you’ve faced in these turbulent times?
Helga: To walk a path where every choice risks betrayal of someone I love. My loyalty is tested daily—by blood, by oath, by the quiet voice of my own heart.

Interviewer: You’ve witnessed both Saxon and Norse ways of life. What do you believe each side fails to see in the other?
Helga: The Saxons see us as heathens, blind to the depth of our traditions. The Norse see the Saxons as weak, blind to the strength of their faith. Both sides forget that beneath the banners and the gods, we are all people who bleed, grieve, and hope the same.

Interviewer: How do you find strength when the world around you is so divided?
Helga: In the small moments—the laughter of children, the warmth of a fire, the memory of a promise. These are the things that remind me why we endure.

Interviewer: Looking ahead, what do you hope your legacy will be?
Helga: That love can bridge even the deepest divides. If those who come after me can live in a world where Saxon and Norse walk side by side, then my struggles will not have been in vain.

Interviewer: Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like to share with our readers?
Helga: Only this: even in times of war, the heart still seeks peace. May those who come after us remember that truth.

 Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link

http://mybook.to/tbatd

 Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/bMJGwa

 

 Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

Connect with Mary Ann:

Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

Amazon author page http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/maryannbernal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryannbernal

Linked-In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

Threads:  https://www.threads.com/@maryannbernal

BlueSky:  https://bsky.app/profile/maryannbernal.bsky.social

  

 

Wulfgar of Wessex, Messenger of the King — An Exclusive Character Interview

 In this special interview, we step into the world of Wulfgar of Wessex, King Alfred’s trusted messenger in The Briton and the Dane. Known for his tireless journeys across the land, Wulfgar carries not only messages but also the weight of England’s survival on his shoulders. Today, he shares his experiences of loyalty, danger, and the quiet hopes that sustain him.

Interviewer: Wulfgar, thank you for joining us. Can you tell us a little about your background and how you came to serve King Alfred?

Wulfgar: It is my honor. I was trained from youth to ride hard and carry word swiftly between lords and burhs. My service to King Alfred began when I proved myself reliable in times of peril. Since then, I have been entrusted with messages that could turn the tide of war.

Interviewer: As Alfred’s messenger, you often carry news that can change the course of battles. How do you handle that responsibility?
Wulfgar: With vigilance and prayer. A single delay or misstep could cost lives. I ride knowing that the fate of men may rest in my hands, and I strive never to falter.

Interviewer: You’ve crossed paths with many lords, warriors, and even enemies. What do you believe is most misunderstood about the Saxon cause?
Wulfgar: Many think we fight only for land. But it is more than soil we defend. It is our faith, our families, and the hope of a future free from fear. That is what drives us to endure.

Interviewer: Your duties keep you constantly on the move. How has that shaped your personal life?
Wulfgar: The road is a lonely companion. Yet even in solitude, I have learned patience and endurance. A man who serves must often set aside his own desires for the greater good.

Interviewer: What dangers have you faced most often in your journeys?
Wulfgar: Ambush and betrayal. A messenger is a tempting target, for silencing me can silence a king’s command. I rely on speed, caution, and the goodwill of those who shelter me along the way.

Interviewer: You’ve witnessed both triumph and tragedy in your service. What moment has left the deepest mark on you?
Wulfgar: I recall carrying word of a victory hard-won, only to arrive at a village already burned by the Danes. The joy of triumph turned to ash in my mouth. It taught me that even the swiftest rider cannot outrun sorrow.

Interviewer: In such turbulent times, what gives you strength to continue?
Wulfgar: Faith in God, loyalty to my king, and the memory of those who have fallen. Each ride is a promise to them—that their sacrifice was not in vain.

Interviewer: Looking ahead, what do you hope your legacy will be?
Wulfgar: That I was faithful to my king, to my people, and to the trust placed in me. If I am remembered at all, let it be as a man who carried his duty with honor.

Interviewer: Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like to share with our readers?
Wulfgar: Only this: even in times of war, loyalty and service endure. May those who come after us remember the strength found in faith and duty.

Purchase Links

 Amazon Global Link

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Mary Ann Bernal is a distinguished alumna of Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. Her literary journey began with the 2009 publication of her debut novel in The Briton and the Dane series, marking the start of a richly diverse body of work that spans historical fiction, contemporary short stories, science fiction/fantasy, and fast-paced adventure novellas.

Her recent publications include Crusader’s Path, a poignant redemption tale set during the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a compelling exploration of familial bonds in Ancient Rome; and the award-winning AnaRose adventure series, chronicling the daring escapades of a museum curator-turned-relic hunter. Mary Ann’s work has been honored by the Independent Press Award, the NYC Big Book Award, Chanticleer International Book Awards, the B.R.A.G. Medallion, and the Reader Views Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Her short fiction anthologies have likewise earned distinction, most notably from the American Legacy Book Awards. She was also recognized with the Editor’s Choice Award for Literary Excellence by Reader’s House magazine.

A dedicated supporter of the United States military since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has actively engaged in letter-writing campaigns and related initiatives. Her advocacy has been featured on KMTV’s The Morning Blend and in the Omaha World-Herald. As a celebrated author, she has appeared on numerous reader blogs and book promotion platforms. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska, where she continues to craft stories that inspire and endure.

 Connect with Mary Ann:

 Website: http://www.maryannbernal.com/

 Whispering Legends Press: https://www.whisperinglegendspress.com/

 Blog: https://maryannbernal.blogspot.com/

 Amazon author page http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Ann-Bernal/e/B003D2DPZ4

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 Linked-In:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-bernal-a9a05b33/

 YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/maryannbernal

 BookBub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-ann-bernal

 X: https://x.com/BritonandDane

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Historical Epic Unveiled: The Briton and the Dane by Mary Ann Bernal. Narrated by Sebastian Lockwood.

Author: Mary Ann Bernal

Narrator: Sebastian Lockwood

Series: The Briton and the Dane, Book 1

Length:11 hrs and 30 mins

Release Date: August 21, 2014

Language: English

 A lurking shadow. A whispered secret. A veiled betrayal.

In a realm shadowed by the looming threat of Norse conquest, a young woman finds herself the linchpin in a perilous game of dominion. Her capture, far from being a mere twist of fate, casts her into the depths of a world rife with cunning and treachery. Amidst the echoes of a hundred scheming voices, truth becomes a chameleon, shifting its hues with each whispered plot. As the specter of the Norse menace draws ever nearer, she must navigate through a sea of deceit where allies are indistinguishable from foes. In this maelstrom of betrayal, her heart aches for the love of a prince from the ranks of her kingdom’s adversaries—a love that stands as her sole beacon amidst the encroaching darkness of war.

Listen to a sample on SoundCloud HERE

 

Purchase Links

Audiobook

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iTunes

Digital and Print Universal Link

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Celebrating Christmas in the Ninth Century during the time of Alfred the Great by Mary Ann Bernal

 

The court of Alfred the Great was Christian, deferring to the Pope in Rome for religious guidance. King Alfred rigorously enforced the Church’s mandates from fasting during Lent to Almsgiving throughout the year, and not just at Christmastime.

 

There was merrymaking and feasting, but it was also a solemn occasion; prayer and attending Mass was foremost since the holiday celebrates the birth of Christ.

 

During the twelve days of Christmas, the Christian community prayed at daily Mass, attended vigils, and participated in almsgiving, donating to the poor and the religious communities.

 

One must not forget the food. Meats included beef, pork, turkey, and boar. Available vegetables were carrots, onions, parsnips, and cabbage. Bread warmed on the hearth, and everything was washed down with wine, mead, and ale. Yes, there was always room for dessert with a variety of tasty pies or fruit, such as apples, plums, and cherries. And, like today, a great chef was worth their weight in gold.

 

Minstrels would play festive tunes, and guests would dance; gift-giving was also practiced.

 

Over the centuries, customs have come and gone, but the main reason for the celebration remains, celebrating the birth of Christ.

The Briton and the Dane series transports the reader to ninth-century Anglo-Saxon England, a tumultuous period in history when the feared Vikings ravaged all of Christendom. Click HERE to learn more. 

About the Author

 

Mary Ann Bernal

Mary Ann Bernal attended Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she received a degree in Business Administration. Her literary aspirations were ultimately realized when the first book of The Briton and the Dane novels was published in 2009. In addition to writing historical fiction, Mary Ann has also authored a collection of contemporary short stories in the Scribbler Tales series and a science fiction/fantasy novel entitled Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire. Her recent work includes Crusader’s Path, a redemption story set against the backdrop of the First Crusade, and Forgiving Nero, a novel of Ancient Rome.

Since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has been a passionate supporter of the United States military, having been involved with letter-writing campaigns and other support programs. She appeared on The Morning Blend television show hosted by KMTV, the CBS television affiliate in Omaha, and was interviewed by the Omaha World-Herald for her volunteer work. She has been a featured author on various reader blogs and promotional sites.

Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska.

 Connect with Mary Ann

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