Ekkehard: A Tale of the Tenth Century. Vol. 2 (of 2)

"Ekkehard: A Tale of the Tenth Century. Vol. 2 (of 2)" by Joseph Victor von Scheffel is a historical novel set in the 10th century, focusing on the period after a great battle between Christians and Huns. The heart of the novel beats around characters like Ekkehard, a keeper at St. Gall, and Dame Hadwig, as they wrestle with duty, affection, and clashing ideals, enriched by a supporting cast. Opening amid the desolation of a battlefield, the book immediately casts the reader amongst monks and soldiers coping with loss, as young characters like Hadumoth and Audifax show their strength attempting to free Audifax. Throughout are shown the complex relationships between the noble and common people, which reveal the deep themes of identity.