Godiva

Nicole Galland, known for The Fool's Tale, takes on the legend of Lady Godiva in this historical novel set in Anglo-Saxon England. The story follows Godiva, a noblewoman whose husband, Leofric, Earl of Mercia, imposes heavy taxes that weigh on the people of Coventry.

Leofric offers to lift the burden if Godiva will ride through the town's streets with nothing but her long hair to cover her. Accepting the bargain would put her home and personal safety at risk. The novel also centers on her close friend, the Abbess Egdiva.

Galland tells the familiar story with wit and close attention to period detail. Readers who enjoy court politics, deception and romance in a historical setting will find much to follow here.