EPISODE · Oct 13, 2025 · 56 MIN
The Girl of Many Crowns: D.H. Morris Makes History Personal
from Conversations with Rich Bennett · host Rich Bennett / Deborah Morris
Author and researcher D. H. Morris reveals the gripping true story behind her historical novel The Girl of Many Crowns, following Princess Judith of Francia and Baldwin “Iron Arm.” We dig into how Deborah turned medieval annals, songs, and court records into a vivid, faith-infused saga of love, power, and defiance—plus the surprising family link that started it all. If you love stories where history breathes and the stakes are royal, this one’s for you. Sponsored by Daniel McGhee & the Victory Team Guest Bio: D. H. (Deborah) Morris is a playwright, world traveler, and historical-fiction author whose research spans medieval Latin sources and English scholarship. After tracing her own genealogy, she uncovered the real saga of Princess Judith of Francia and Baldwin Iron Arm, inspiring her debut novel The Girl of Many Crowns. A former theater professional and devoted researcher, Morris blends scholarly rigor with dramatic storytelling—and donates a portion of her book’s proceeds to anti-trafficking efforts. Main Topics: · How a genealogy puzzle led Deborah to Princess Judith & Baldwin Iron Arm. · Turning dense medieval sources into living scenes (annals, riddles, liturgy, songs). · Historical fiction vs. strict history: staying faithful while filling the gaps. · Judith’s early marriages, agency, and defiance in a world of kings and councils. · Vikings, ransoms, and realpolitik: how raids, slavery, and silver shaped the plot. · Writing the audiobook herself—acting craft, character voice, and production. · Prequel in progress: Empress Judith, Charlemagne’s court, and civil war stakes. · Why she donates proceeds to OUR/Operation Underground Railroad. Resources mentioned: · The Girl of Many Crowns novel· Princess Judith of Francia; Baldwin (Iron Arm); Alfred the Great; Charlemagne; Louis the Pious; Hincmar of Reims; Aachen. · Annals of St. Bertin (used as a year-by-year scaffold). · TV/Books referenced: Vikings (History), The Last Kingdom / Bernard Cornwell. · Fiverr (for her book trailer). · OUR / Operation Underground Railroad and the film Sound of Freedom (discussed). · New Classic Publishing (her imprint). · Episode Sponsor: Daniel McGhee & the Victory Team· Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics· Supporter: Full Circle Boards· Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography Send us Fan MailCelebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland!https://bookfairatbelair.org/The Victory TeamLOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A HOME Go with the Agent that was voted Harford’s Best & won the Harford CouDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTokSponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCastSubscribe by Email
What this episode covers
Author and researcher D. H. Morris reveals the gripping true story behind her historical novel The Girl of Many Crowns, following Princess Judith of Francia and Baldwin “Iron Arm.” We dig into how Deborah turned medieval annals, songs, and court records into a vivid, faith-infused saga of love, power, and defiance—plus the surprising family link that started it all. If you love stories where history breathes and the stakes are royal, this one’s for you. Sponsored by Daniel McGhee &...
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The Girl of Many Crowns: D.H. Morris Makes History Personal
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