The House of Wolf

The House of Wolf by Tony Robinson is the first volume in a trilogy about events in the life of Alfred the Great who was king of the West Saxons from 871 to 886 and then king of the Anglo Saxons from 886 to 899. This is a work of historical fiction loosely based on a biography, The Life of King Alfred written in 893 by Asser, a Welsh monk. Throughout the novel chapters alternate with an account of life in Wessex, events occurring in Rome and Viking invasions of England. In this volume the story begins in 857.

King Aethelwolf (Aethelwulf) ruled Wessex but it was a divided country. His power in the kingdom was challenged by most of his children, Aethelbard (Bear), Aethelberht (Hawk), Aethelswith (Swift), Aethelred (Red), and Aethelfraud (Alfred) who was exiled from his family and spending time in Rome. There was also an older son who is not mentioned in the book. Vikings made occasional invasions along the coast and Aethelwulf travelled to Rome to obtain military assistance in defending his territory. However authority in Rome, particularly in the church is divided, and although an agreement is devised it is not concluded. 

Much of the story in the novel involves the differences between the older children as they vie for power, ignoring the threat to their country from outside forces. The older sons are particularly determined that their sister, Swift, should not have too much territory. Meanwhile in Rome, Alfred is works with some of the clergy to establish a school for impoverished students and generally help the poor. This view of Christianity is not approved by all sections of the church in Rome. As the threat of Viking invasion increases in many parts of Europe, division grows in the church hierarchy.

In The House of Wolf, Tony Robinson has commenced a readable fictional account of  life in Anglo Saxon times. I look forward to reading the next installment. Tony Robinson is visiting Melbourne in February 2026 to talk about his life including participation in the television series Blackadder, Time Team and other history related documentaries plus the writing of The House of Wolf.