Defiance and Destiny with Gwyneth of Wareham: A Character Interview from The Briton and the Dane: The Complete Trilogy

 In this exclusive character interview, we sit down with Gwyneth of Wareham, the indomitable heroine of The Briton and the Dane: The Complete Trilogy. From misty coastlines to royal courts, Gwyneth’s journey is one of courage, conviction, and quiet rebellion. She shares her thoughts on duty, defiance, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

Interviewer: Lady Gwyneth, thank you for joining us. Can you tell us about your life in Wareham before the events of the trilogy began?

Gwyneth of Wareham: Life in Wareham was structured, predictable, even. As the daughter of Lord Richard, I was expected to behave with decorum, to marry well, and to serve my station. But I always felt the pull of something more, something beyond the walls of our keep and the expectations placed upon me.

Interviewer: Your story begins with a dramatic moment on the coastline. What compelled you to help a wounded stranger?

Gwyneth: I saw a man stumbling across the beach, bloodied and alone. Instinct overrode caution. I couldn’t leave him to die. That moment changed everything. It wasn’t just about saving a life, it was about choosing my own path, even if it defied my father’s wishes.

Interviewer: You’ve been described as rebellious. How do you view that label?

Gwyneth: Rebellious? Perhaps. But I see it as resolute. I question what doesn’t feel just. I speak when silence is expected. In a world where women are told to obey, I chose to act. That’s not rebellion, it’s survival.

Interviewer: You were trained in swordsmanship and archery, skills not typically taught to noblewomen. What drew you to combat?

Gwyneth: David believed in me. He saw that I could learn, that I had the discipline and fire. I didn’t train to prove anything, I trained because I wanted to protect those I love. And because I knew one day, I’d need to fight for my own future.

Interviewer: You’ve faced kings, warriors, and political intrigue. What has been your greatest challenge?

Gwyneth: Navigating court politics is more perilous than any battlefield. One misstep, one word too bold, and you risk exile, or worse. But the greatest challenge has always been staying true to myself while protecting those around me.

Interviewer: You spent time at the Abbey of Wimborne, far from the battlefield and court. How did that experience shape you?

Gwyneth: The abbey was quiet, but not peaceful. Reverend Mother Prioress ruled with firm devotion, and silence was both shield and shackle. I met Cecilia there, a novitiate as restless as I was. Our friendship became a lifeline. That time taught me patience, reflection, and the power of quiet resistance. Even cloistered behind stone walls, we found ways to shape our fate.

Interviewer: Without revealing too much, what can readers expect from your journey across the trilogy?

Gwyneth: Expect fire. Expect sacrifice. Expect a woman who refuses to be defined by her station. My story is not just mine, it’s the story of every woman who’s ever dared to dream beyond the walls built around her.

Interviewer: If you could speak to young women reading your story today, what would you say?

Gwyneth: Do not wait for permission to be brave. The world may try to tame you, but your spirit is your own. Claim it. Wield it. And never forget you were born to shape history.

Interviewer: Lady Gwyneth, thank you for your candor and courage. Your story continues to inspire.

Gwyneth: Thank you. May your readers find strength in the shadows and light in the storm.

Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link

http://mybook.to/thecompletetrilogy

Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/mq1LRv

 

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

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

 

Honor and Heart with Erik of Esbjerg: A Character Interview from The Briton and the Dane: The Complete Trilogy

In this exclusive character interview, we speak with Danish Prince Erik of Esbjerg, whose journey from reckless raider to loyal warrior spans the breadth of The Briton and the Dane: The Complete Trilogy. Erik reflects on loyalty, legacy, and the woman who changed the course of his life.

Interviewer: Prince Erik, thank you for joining us. Can you tell us what led you to the shores of Wareham?

Erik of Esbjerg: Truthfully? Boredom and bravado. My companions and I left Esbjerg on a whim, chasing the thrill of a coastal raid. We expected little resistance, just a quick strike and return. But the townspeople fought back, and I paid the price. That arrow in my shoulder changed more than my plans, it changed my fate.

Interviewer: That’s when you met Lady Gwyneth. What was your first impression of her?

Erik: She was unlike anyone I’d ever known. Fierce, compassionate, and utterly unafraid. I was wounded, vulnerable, and she chose to help me. That act of kindness and courage, stayed with me. Even after I returned to my men, I couldn’t forget her.

Interviewer: You later chose to remain in England as a hostage. What motivated that decision?

Erik: My men deserved to go home. I was their leader, and it was my responsibility to ensure their safety. Becoming a hostage was the price of peace. King Alfred honored the agreement, and his queen welcomed me into their home. It was unexpected. But it taught me that honor can exist even among enemies.

Interviewer: You eventually fought alongside King Alfred. How did it feel to take up arms for a foreign king?

Erik: Strange at first. My loyalty was tested, but I believed in the cause. Guthrum’s illegitimate heir threatened more than a throne, he threatened stability. I fought not just for Alfred, but for Gwyneth, for the life we were building. Sometimes, the sword must serve peace.

Interviewer: In The Briton and the Dane: Legacy, you face your own brother in battle. How did you reconcile that conflict?

Erik: That was the hardest moment of my life. Sven was blood, but he chose ambition over honor. I didn’t want to fight him, but I had to. For England. For Gwyneth. For our children. War doesn’t care about family ties. It demands sacrifice.

Interviewer: You were baptized as part of your alliance with Alfred. What did that moment mean to you?

Erik: It was complicated. I didn’t speak against it, but I wrestled with it privately. Faith is personal, and politics often intrude. I accepted the baptism as a gesture of peace, not a surrender of self. My gods may have changed, but my soul remained mine.

Interviewer: You’ve lived through betrayal, war, and love. What do you believe defines a warrior?

Erik: Not the blade. Not the victories. A true warrior is defined by loyalty, by the battles he chooses not to fight, and the people he chooses to protect. Strength without purpose is just noise.

Interviewer: Prince Erik, thank you for sharing your story. Any final thoughts for our readers?

Erik: Love is the fiercest weapon of all. It tempers rage, sharpens resolve, and gives every battle meaning. I found mine on a cliff above the sea. May your readers find theirs, wherever the tide takes them.

Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link

http://mybook.to/thecompletetrilogy

Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/mq1LRv

 

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

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

Stormbound with Brigid of Esbjerg: An Exclusive Character Interview

 In this exclusive interview, we meet Brigid of Esbjerg, a formidable figure whose choices ripple across kingdoms. From stormy crossings to fractured loyalties, Brigid reflects on survival, sacrifice, and the price of ambition in The Briton and the Dane: Legacy.

Interviewer: Brigid, thank you for joining us. Can you share a glimpse of your life in Esbjerg before the tides of war pulled you into England’s conflict?

Brigid: Esbjerg was cold, but familiar. I knew the rhythms of the sea, the weight of silence, the politics whispered behind closed doors. Before the war, I lived in the shadow of princes, men who saw me as a moment, not a legacy. That changed when I realized I had something worth fighting for.

Interviewer: You’ve crossed paths with powerful men, some noble, some dangerous. How did those relationships shape your journey?

Brigid: Power is seductive. It blinds you to consequence. I’ve loved, I’ve lost, and I’ve learned that proximity to a crown doesn’t guarantee safety. What shaped me wasn’t the men, it was surviving them.

Interviewer: You joined a secret faction during the events of The Briton and the Dane: Birthright. What compelled you to take that risk?

Brigid: Desperation. Hope. A mother’s instinct. I believed I could change the course of history, not for glory, but for protection. I didn’t realize how deep the treachery ran until it was too late.

Interviewer: Your sea crossing was treacherous. What do you remember most about that journey?

Brigid: The storm felt like a reckoning. The waves tore at our vessel, and for a moment, I thought we’d vanish into the deep. But survival has a way of sharpening resolve. I didn’t land unscathed, but I landed changed.

Interviewer: You’ve walked a fine line between Saxon and Danish loyalties. How did you navigate that tension?

Brigid: Carefully. I learned to speak in half-truths, to listen more than I spoke. The Saxons saw me as a threat, the Danes as a traitor. I had to become something else, someone who could move between worlds without belonging to either.

Interviewer: You spent time in sanctuary. How did that experience affect your outlook?

Brigid: It was quiet. Too quiet. But in that silence, I found clarity. I began to question everything, my choices, my allegiances, my faith. Sometimes it takes confinement to see the path forward.

Interviewer: You’ve been accused of duplicity, yet you’ve also risked your life to protect others. How do you reconcile those truths?

Brigid: I don’t. I carry them both. I’ve made mistakes, grave ones, but I’ve also acted out of love, out of fear, and out of necessity. Redemption isn’t clean. It’s messy, painful, and often misunderstood.

Interviewer: What do you believe is the greatest misconception about women in wartime?

Brigid: That we’re pawns. We’re not. We’re players, strategists, survivors. We bleed, we fight, we endure. And sometimes, we change the outcome without ever lifting a sword.

Interviewer: Brigid, thank you for your candor. Before we close, is there anything you’d like our readers to understand about your legacy?

Brigid: My story isn’t about scandal or seduction. It’s about survival. About a woman who refused to be erased. And when the final reckoning comes, I’ll be remembered not for who I loved, but for what I dared.

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

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

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

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

  

Exclusive Character Interview: The Resistance Speaks – Krista, Voice of the Rebellion

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Krista, a courageous operative of the Freedom Fighters. As the first point of contact for Sophia and Lucca, Krista’s choices helped set in motion a daring escape that would alter the course of the galaxy. Here, Krista shares her perspective on survival, loyalty, and the price of defiance in a time of tyranny.

Interviewer: Krista, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us a little about your background and how you became involved with the Freedom Fighters?

Krista: It wasn’t one dramatic moment; it was years of watching people silenced, families torn apart, and entire worlds crushed under the weight of a regime that demanded obedience. I realized that if I didn’t stand up, I’d be complicit. Joining the Freedom Fighters wasn’t about glory. It was about survival with purpose.

Interviewer: You were the first point of contact for Sophia and Lucca. What made you decide to trust them?

Krista: Trust is dangerous in times like these. But when I met them, I saw something different. They weren’t just running for themselves; they were risking everything for someone else. That kind of courage is rare. It told me they were worth the gamble.

Interviewer: Working under Bret, the leader of the Freedom Fighters, what role do you play in the rebellion?

Krista: Bret carries the burden of command, but he can’t be everywhere. My role is to listen, watch, and make connections that others might overlook. Sometimes that means slipping into places where rebels aren’t welcome. Sometimes it means extending a hand to strangers who might change the course of the fight.

Interviewer: The galaxy is burning with unrest. What do you believe is the greatest misconception about the rebellion?

Krista: That we’re reckless. People think we fight because we crave chaos. The truth is, we fight because we crave peace. Every risk we take, every life we lose is not for destruction. It’s for the chance to build something better.

Interviewer: Meeting Sophia and Lucca eventually led to a daring escape. What was going through your mind during that mission?

Krista: Fear, of course. Only a fool says they don’t feel fear. But beneath it was resolve. I knew if we failed, it wasn’t just lives lost, it was hope itself. And hope is the one thing we can’t afford to lose.

Interviewer: What keeps you moving forward, despite the danger?

Krista: The faces of those who can’t fight for themselves. The children who deserve to grow up free. The memory of every friend we’ve buried. That’s what drives me. That’s why I’ll never stop.

Interviewer: Krista, thank you for sharing your story. Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like to say to those who might one day join the cause?

Krista: Don’t wait for the perfect moment. There isn’t one. Change begins the second you decide you won’t live in silence anymore.

Purchase Links

Amazon Global Link

https://mybook.to/PlanetaryWars

Universal Link

https://books2read.com/u/490xN8

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