British history

Let us shine the light on Penda of Mercia – or more correctly, on author MJ Porter.

Today, I am hosting a stop on MJ Porter’s Coffee Pot Book Club tour featuring her book, Pagan King. We’re thrown back into the seventh century, a time when mighty (and Christain-ish) Northumberland is challenged by pagan Mercia and its capable ruler, Penda. Last time they clashed, Penda won. Will history repeat itself? Well, let …

Let us shine the light on Penda of Mercia – or more correctly, on author MJ Porter. Read More »

When the Welsh underdog bites

In 1283, the last true Prince of Wales, Dafydd ap Gruffud, was hauled up the gallows in Shrewsbury and subjected to the horrifying ordeal of being hanged, drawn and quartered. Whether he died bravely or not we do not know. Personally, I think it is unlikely any human being can be subjected to such cruelty …

When the Welsh underdog bites Read More »

The loyal bastard – of James FitzJames Stuart

In November of 2014, that most famous of Spanish grandees, the Duchess of Alba, died. At the time of her death, this the most titled of all aristocrats in Europe was 88 years old, leaving behind six children, nine grandchildren and a couple of great grandchildren. And, of course, the ancient duchy of Alba, the …

The loyal bastard – of James FitzJames Stuart Read More »