Octavia Randolph is a historical novelist, best known for her series, The Circle of Ceridwen Saga. With a deep-seated interest in history, Randolph aims to write the kind of books she would enjoy reading herself. She conducts extensive research for her series, having traveled to England, Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, and Gotland to ensure the historical accuracy of her work.
Randolph's writing is not only driven by her passion for history but also as a means to better understand her own times. She writes about people who are "far better, and (I hope) far worse than myself," deriving inspiration from beautiful objects of the past, such as hand-carved combs, skilfully wrought swords, and gemmed goblets, all of which are featured prominently in her saga. In addition to her interest in historical artifacts, Randolph has also studied Anglo-Saxon and Norse runes and learnt to spin with a drop spindle.
Randolph's path to becoming a historical novelist has led her to extensive on-site research in various countries, including England, Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, and Gotland. She has been fortunate to receive fellowships at the MacDowell Colony, Ledig House International, and Byrdcliffe. In addition to The Circle of Ceridwen Saga, Randolph has written a novella, Ride, a retelling of the story of Lady Godiva, and The Tale of Melkorka, based on the Icelandic Sagas. Randolph currently resides on the Baltic island of Gotland, where several of the Saga novels are set.
Randolph's The Circle of Ceridwen Saga has gained cult status popularity among readers and listeners across the English-speaking world. With meticulous research and deep imagining, Randolph has brought to life the critical years of the Viking incursions in 9th century England and Scandinavia. The series now comprises eleven books, including the pre-quel "Sidroc the Dane" and the upcoming "Water Borne: Book Ten in The Circle of Ceridwen Saga," which will be released on 2 April 2023. Randolph is grateful for the ongoing support and love from her readers as the Circle Saga continues to grow. She enjoys hearing from her readers and always responds to their letters. More information about Randolph and her work can be found on her website, octavia.net.