The novel's story is set in the time of King Canute (also known as Cnut the Great), who ruled over a North Sea empire that included England, Denmark, Norway, and parts of what is now Sweden. The protagonist of the story is a young woman named Elfgiva, who becomes the ward of King Canute. The novel explores Elfgiva's experiences in the royal court, her relationships with various historical figures, and the political and social upheaval of the era.As a historical romance, "The Ward of King Canute" blends elements of adventure, romance, and historical fiction. It provides readers with a glimpse into the culture, politics, and conflicts of the time, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by the novel's characters.Ottilie A. Liljencrantz was known for her historical novels that often featured strong female protagonists and were set in various historical periods. Her works aimed to bring history to life through engaging storytelling and character development.While "The Ward of King Canute" may not be as widely read today as some other historical novels, it is a notable work in the genre and offers a fictionalized account of a significant period in English and Scandinavian history.