A Prince of Cornwall: A Story of Glastonbury and the West in the Days of Ina of Wessex by Charles W. Whistler is a compelling historical fiction novel set in medieval England during the 7th century. The story transports readers to a time of royal intrigue and adventure, focusing on the region of Glastonbury and the West under the reign of Ina of Wessex. Whistler’s narrative immerses readers in the Anglo-Saxon era, blending rich historical detail with an engaging plot. The novel follows the life of a prince from Cornwall as he navigates the complexities of political and social dynamics in a turbulent period. Through vivid descriptions and well-researched historical context, Whistler brings to life the era’s customs, conflicts, and cultural nuances. A Prince of Cornwall offers a fascinating glimpse into British history, combining adventure and royal drama with a deep sense of historical authenticity.
An English author of historical fiction notable for placing his works between 600 and 1100 CE and getting his inspiration from early Saxon chronicles, Norse and Danish sagas, and archaeological discoveries was The Reverend Charles Watts Whistler (1856–1913). The oldest child of Rev. Rose Fuller Whistler, Whistler was raised in a household with close ties to the Sussex branch of the Whistler family. He attended Emmanuel College in Cambridge and Merchant Taylors School in London for his schooling. He obtained his license from the Society of Apothecaries and membership in the Royal College of Surgeons after completing his medical studies at St. Thomas' Hospital. Whistler sought ordination after leaving the medical field and worked as a minister in many places. He served as rector, vicar, curate, and chaplain in many parishes around England. Whistler and Georgiana Rosalie Shapter Strange were related to one other via the weddings of their siblings and were wed in 1886. In his large corpus of work as a historical writer, Whistler's interest in pre-Norman history is clear. Whistler's books were well-liked at the time they were written, but current readers may find them difficult to follow due to the antiquated vocabulary they utilize. Nevertheless, his contributions to historical fiction provide insight into the cultural and historical environments of the past and give light on early English history.
