The Schemers of the Welsh Warrior Series

Not every danger in the Welsh Warrior Series comes from the battlefield. Some of the most destructive threats come from those driven by envy, ambition, and wounded pride.

Three characters who embody this are Lady Marged, Bishop Richard, and Gronwy.

Lady Marged is dangerous in subtle ways. She is motivated less by loyalty or love than by resentment and the desire to hurt where she can. She understands how much damage can be done through malice, rivalry, and private cruelty.

Bishop Richard is a different kind of threat. Outwardly respectable and authoritative, he uses the language of duty and order to pursue power and influence. He reminds us that ambition can hide behind a very polished mask.

Gronwy is perhaps the most personal danger of all. His motives are shaped by bitterness, pride, and grievance. He is bound by blood to those he betrays and therefore, his actions cut more deeply than those of an open enemy.

What interests me most about these characters is that none of them sees themselves as evil. Each believes there is some justification for what they want. That, to me, is what makes them compelling and dangerous.

In the Welsh Warrior Series, kingdoms are not threatened only by invading forces. They are also weakened from within by jealousy, treachery, and the ambitions of those who should have been loyal.