Tag: saxon britain

Blog Tour Review: Storm of Mercia – M.J. Porter

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I took a chance on a new historical fiction series back in February 2022 and well, the rest is history…

Okay, I won’t give up my day job.

When I first picked up M.J. Porter’s book, Son of Mercia, I had no idea I was going to fall in love with the protagonist Icel and storyline of these books so hard. We are now nine books into this series, and I don’t regret featuring any of these on my blog.

Today, I’m excited to share my thoughts on the latest instrument of this series – Storm of Mercia. Published just yesterday, I’m delighted to bring my thoughts to you hot on the heels of release. I hope I can inspire you to pick up this epic historical fiction series! Full of action and intrigue, there is something for everyone in these books.

As always, thanks to Rachel and the author, M.J. Porter for the opportunity to read and review Storm of Mercia. Whilst I was provided a copy of the book for the purpose of giving my review, the thoughts expressed within this post are entirely my own.

Are you ready to find out about this action-packed historical fiction? 

 

Storm of Mercia – M.J. Porter

Genre: Historical Fiction 

Pages: 320

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Boldwood Books 

Original Publication Date: 01 Ap 2026

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5

 

Goodreads – Storm of Mercia

Wessex has never been Mercia’s ally, neither has it been her only enemy.

Wessex, AD836

The Viking raiders’ devastation has been halted once more by the shields of Mercia as opposed to Wessex. But their whereabouts are unknown.

King Wiglaf of Mercia is keen to ensure the Viking raiders are swept from his shared border with Wessex but these Viking ships are quick and difficult to track and Icel is once more deployed with Ealdorman Ælfstan warriors to do his King’s bidding. However, Icel’s quest is beset with many more obstacles and it’s not all about the seax and shield.

Worrying news from home overshadows Icel’s every deadly encounter. Will the storms of war keep him away or has he time to make one more desperate journey back to Tamworth?

With raging seas driving him ever further from Mercia’s shores, and the threat of a new conspiracy against the Mercian kingship will Icel overpower the sands of time, or will he be defeated by his deadliest nemesis yet?

 

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/StormofMercia

My Thoughts… 

Plot

If you love your historical fiction novels full of action and intrigue, Storm of Mercia will not disappoint. As always, I saw throws himself into the thick of the action. Even within the first 10% of this book, I still find himself in the hands of his enemies. Pulling no punches, the author gets us stuck right back into the world we have called to know and love in this series.

There is always something going on in Storm of Mercia. It’s makes for an entertaining read, and the pages just fly by.  Whereas previous instalments of the series have was reaping across the country and fighting battles from horseback, I saw instead find himself in British Waters for the first time. For a book set in this time period, where Vikings are heavily involved in the storyline, I’m surprised we have not yet seen this plot development. That being said, I still definitely feels like a fish out of water, so who can blame him for not choosing this for himself… 

In some ways, the events of Storm of Mercia take us back to the very first book, Son of Mercia. That is the book that sold me onto this series in the first place. Being able to almost go back there and be reminded of I saw humble beginnings and deep character relationships was a fun way to circle back to where it all began. 

But of course, I saw is not without strife getting there. Nothing runs smoothly, but where is the entertainment value in that?

 

Characters

Icel remains one of my favourite characters in this genre and time period, like, ever. I always enjoy going back to these books and seeing what trouble he embroils himself in. As a storm of mercy touches upon, I still has a tendency to rush head first and ask questions later. It wouldn’t make for an interesting book if this was not the case. However, when you consider Icel’s development as an individual from that very first book, he has come a long way. And you know what, it feels very natural. 

Icel is very much of a man shaped by his environment. In his heart his preference would be to heal rather than hurt. However, his role and standing in society puts him in a place where he is there to defend the weak and vulnerable. He steps into this role like it’s a second nature at this point.

Whilst he is the main star of the show, he isn’t on his own. With a strong supporting cast and regular characters coming back from earlier books in the series, the events and the people involved are consistent throughout and easy to follow. Whilst overall the cast of the book is quite large, the characters are somewhat broken down by role and Association. Not only that, but there is a cast list at the beginning of the book for anyone who needs a refresher on who people are. It’s a nice touch when there’s so much going on! 

 

Setting

As with pretty much every other book in the Eagle of Mercia Chronicles series to date, events take us across the country (and in this particular case, the seas around Britain). It’s a busy time period, with a lot of conflict going on between people both native to the island, as well as Vikings coming to our shows. I saw, as one of the best warriors of Mercia, is always on the front line to any new threat.

The book is already very action packed anyway, but the reflection of travel helps keep events moving in a way that is easy to follow, but also gives us opportunity to explore the wider world of the book is set in. What I appreciate some of the detail and description that is introduced here, there isn’t so much to overwhelm, nor a lack that leaves us asking questions or unable to visualise our surroundings as events unfold. I especially enjoyed the seafaring aspect, setting and difficulties that are major plot conflict drivers in this book. It made a refreshing change whilst also feeling very time appropriate and something naturally Icel would end up getting involved in.

 

Narrative Style

A number of factors help make this series compulsively readable. From an action packed plot two characters we want to invest in, as well as as vivid descriptions that allow our imagination to fly. 

However, the easy, natural writing style of these books helps speed along the page count even more! Sometimes historical fiction can be bogged down with jogging that is difficult to understand. However, Storm of Mercia is unlike these books. M.J. Porter has written the book in such a way that it’s approachable for readers of many backgrounds and reading levels. 

I have always been adamant over how easy these books are to read. They are reasonably quick reads as well, especially if you are as familiar as I am with the world, setting, and other aspects that drive these books. But there is one particular example I can give you now that stresses how easy these books are to read.

I am drafting this blog post at 1am the day this post is due. Unfortunately, timing of the blog tour coinciding with quarter-end, which is one of my busiest work periods, combined with absence out of my team, mean that I’ve taken on more workload. I’ve been working overtime for the last few days. Even still, I have still been able to pick up this book and read it without much effort. Even when I’ve been tired, I wanted to dive back into the pages and see where Icel‘s story takes him next. 

 

Summary 

I cannot stress enough how much I think you should pick up the Eagle of Mercia Chronicles. Starting with Son of Mericia, be immersed in a historical fiction series with strong character development, lots of action (and I mean, lots of action!). 

The fact that I have stuck with this series for so long, as well as reviewed almost every book as part of their publication block tours, should be endorsement enough. However, if you need a little more convincing, let me tell you this: this series has convinced me to try every other book and series written by M.J. Porter. Without question. Auto-buy. I love her writing in terms of plot and style, and I cannot wait to read more of her books! 

 

Author Bio 

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. Raised in the shadow of a building that was believed to house the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia, meant that the author’s writing destiny was set.

Social Media Links – 

Facebook: @MJPorterauthor

Twitter: @coloursofunison

Instagram: @m_j_porter

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MJPorterNews

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mj-porter

Blog Tour Review: Woden’s Storm – Donovan Cook

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I’m super excited to share today’s historical fiction book review with you. Fans of the genre have had plenty of historical fiction content of late. Today’s blog to review for Woden’s Storm is no exception! Set a little earlier than other well-known authors in the genre like Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy, we get all the drama of in-fighting and war in a slightly different historical setting. 

Before we get into my review, thank you to Rachel, Boldwood Books and the author, Donovan Cook, for the chance to read and review Woden’s Storm so I can feature the book/series on my blog again!

If you haven’t caught up yet, my review of book 1, Woden’s Spear, can be found here. 

FYI, I received a copy of the book in order to provide my review. However, this is an unbiased review and the views expressed within are entirely my own. 

 

Woden’s Storm – Donovan Cook

Genre: Historical fiction 

Pages: 345

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Boldwood Books

Original Publication Date: 22 Oct 2025

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟

 

Goodreads – Woden’s Storm

 

A storm is coming.

A storm that will banish the old and deliver the new.

450AD Britain

Octa has the spear of Woden, but the redemption he sought is out of his grasp. With his banishment and the death of his father, he can no longer return to his Saxon homelands. His only salvation is to join forces with Hengist and Horsa, and their Jutish army that beaches itself on Brittania’s shores. But can he trust their motivation or are there greater plans afoot?

The Gods have their own plans, though, and Octa’s fate is not his own to control as Friga, the mother of the Saxon gods, battles to avoid a war with the gods of the Britons and Saxons using Octa as her weapon.

Prince Vortimer, the son of High King Vortigern, is angered by his father’s agreement with Hengist and Horsa as they remain unchecked and their numbers swell. He suspects treachery and encouraged by some well-placed words of a stranger, he rebels against his father and gathers his army to attack the unwelcome visitors.

War is coming to Britannia and as Octa struggles to understand his role and fate, he knows he has one question to answer. Will he run or will he stand and fight?

 

Purchase Link – https://bit.ly/wodensstorm

 

My Thoughts 

Plot

The gods have a lot to answer for when it comes to driving the plot for this book. Multiple gods and faiths come together and set up a clash for the ages. I love that the diversity and the gods and beliefs of the people set within Britain showcase the diversity of the people at the time.

In modern-day terms, we think of England as one and the same. In Woden’s Storm, that is very far from true!

Following on nicely from Woden’s Spear, Woden’s Storm is full of action, adventure, and the protagonist Octa finds himself in a few scrapes. Octa is a very different character from the first book, and that plays out in the narrative. 

Overall, the plot of this second instalment of the series feels different from the introduction, Woden’s Spear. That first book feels more like a personal coming-of-age story; the second book takes a wider scope on events in the country and how Octa’s actions have thrown him into this tumultuous, but entertaining to read, setting. 

 

Setting

If you enjoy early British history, the setting of this book will appeal.

Whilst place names are less intuitive or closely related to those we know today or in later histories (fiction or otherwise), Woden’s Storm is very good to set out this information early on via maps. Woden’s Spear did the same, and given the length of time between reading these books in the series, I appreciated the reminder. 

Along with plenty of other books in this genre, there is a good deal of travel and diversity in the places featured throughout the narrative. I really enjoyed this element of action and getting to see more of the sort of familiar, but also a little bit different, land. I personally find the changes of settings help with the overall narrative pacing and my interest in what is taking place in the book.

Having read other historical fiction books where this is less prominent, it’s definitely a narrative device I enjoy in this genre. In my opinion, it keeps events fresh and exciting!

 

Characters 

Much like other books I’ve read in the historical fiction genre, I’ve enjoyed seeing the progression in the Octa’s character from start to present day. He is far from your ideal or stereotypical warrior from this time period. In fact, he is nicknamed Octa the coward. He starts off pretty flawed. It’s a character arc I would like to see more of. I love a flawed or non-altruistic character, so this is refreshing to read about and it’s one of my favourite elements of Woden’s Storm. 

Octa isn’t the only troubled character in this narrative. Brigid struggles with her purpose and identity when she can no longer commune with her God, Brigantia. Her brother’s disappearance leaves her stranded. Of course, it is heartbreaking for her, but it raises interesting questions in terms of plot development as to why this might be the case. It’s a folkloric and perhaps a bit less ‘serious’ angle to the narrative, depending on how much you read into it. Naturally, religion is one of the biggest points of interest in history in this period. It feels relevant, yet also lightens the story a little.

I especially enjoyed reading the odd few chapters written from the perspective of the Gods themselves. It adds credibility to the characters and helps us to understand what is going on in the wider narrative.

 

Narrative Style

Readability of Woden’s Storm did not disappoint.

Much like the first book, I found myself able to read long stints of this book. It was a pretty quick read for me as things go. Short chapters and plenty of action keep the narrative engaging, inspiring you to read on to find out what happens next.

The book’s link is also ideal for anyone who wants to foray into the genre of historical fiction without a huge commitment. At around 350 pages, it’s an approachable narrative in which there is enough content to immerse ourselves, but also not so heavy as to appeal only to readers of more dense/detailed fiction. For me, the book strikes a fantastic balance between action, storytelling, and world-building and character development.

Although I’d argue this book leaves a little towards readers who prefer plot-driven storylines, there is a good deal of character development present so as not to alienate readers of this preference. 

 

Summary

In case it isn’t apparent from this review, I enjoyed following up on Donovan Cook’s The First Kingdom series with this second instalment, Woden’s Storm. This book definitely leaves a cliffhanger, promising a third action-packed instalment to follow. I personally can’t wait to read more about it!

Have you read Woden’s Spear or Woden’s Storm? Is it on your TBR?

 

Author Bio

Donovan Cook is the author of the well-received Ormstunga Saga series which combines fast-paced narrative with meticulously researched history of the Viking world, and is inspired by his interest in Norse Mythology.  He was born in South Africa and currently lives in Lancashire, UK.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @DonovanCookAuthor

Twitter: @DonovanCook20

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/DonovanCookNews

Bookbub profile: @cookdonovanbooks

Blog Tour Review: Shield of Mercia – M. J. Porter

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Historical fiction fans rejoice! Today’s review is for the eighth and eagerly awaited Eagle of Mercia Chronicles – Shield of Mercia! Today, I’m reviewing this brand new release as part of the new blog tour with Rachel’s Random Resources.

Before we get into my review, thank you to Rachel, Boldwood Books and the author, MJ Porter for the chance to read and review Shield of Mercia so I can feature the book/series.

FYI, I received a copy of the book in order to provide my review. However, this is an unbiased review and the views expressed within are entirely my own. 

 

Shield of Mercia – M. J. Porter

Genre: Historical fiction 

Pages: 337

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Boldwood Books

Original Publication Date:  03 Oct 2025

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 

 

Goodreads – Shield of Mercia

 

Mercia is triumphant. Her king is safe. But Wessex was never Mercia’s only enemy.
Tamworth, AD836

Following a brutally cold winter, King Wiglaf of Mercia is in the ascendancy. Even Wessex’s Archbishop of Canterbury extraordinarily ventures to Mercia to broker a religious accord. But,can the hard-won peace prevail?

Viking raiders threaten Wessex. These blood-thirsty warriors are fast, skilful and have no reticence about killing those who stand in their way. Their aim isn’t to rule but to overwhelm, slaughter and take ill-gotten wealth.

King Wiglaf is no fool. As the Vikings push to overwhelm Wessex, Mercia’s lands look insecure. King Wiglaf needs the shields of Mercia’s warriors to prevent the overwhelming advancement of their deadliest enemy yet.

To save Mercia, Icel must first prevail over the two men who mean to end his life; King Ecgberht of Wessex and his son, Æthelwulf of Kent and only then the marauding Viking army for whom boundaries have no meaning.

An action packed, thrilling historical adventure perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy.

 

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/ShieldofMercia

 

My Thoughts 

 

Plot

In Shield of Mercia we return to a busy action-packed plot. War is on the doorstep, and the number of enemies keeps rising. Icel, a character who you may recall from Son of Mercia, aimed to be a healer. Instead, he became a renowned warrior. He always manages to find himself in the thick of the action, and in Shield of Mercia, in more danger than any book to date.

The gripping storyline and constant question of who could be trusted kept high tension throughout the plot. When eventually the pot boils over, we are treated to numerous battle scenes and conflicts that have us on the edge of our seat!

 

Setting

Events in Shield of Mercia are much like previous books in that travel is a greater element of the plot. Betrayal of Mercia felt like a bit of an exception to that rule, and I’m enjoying being back in the thick of the action. 

I love this series for its truly country spanning narratives. The political and geographical context of the story is really interesting and far more dynamic than we are today. It’s a great backdrop at the best of times, as life in Britain was far from peaceful anyway. Add Viking raiders into this already tumultuous era and you get an unputdownable action-packed historical fiction novel/series! As I can attest to – I read 75% of this book in one evening! 

 

Characters 

Uncertainty between Mercian and Wessex people is rife in Shield of Mercia. The two fractious communities come together in order to oust a Viking enemy. Trust, however, does not come easily. Icel, our main protagonist of the series, has more reason to be both suspicious and wary than ever. 

This feeds into a good portion of the plot, so the development of the characters and wider world within works hand-in-hand with driving the plot forward. It’s not therefore one at the expense of the other, but a great balance! 

Icel remains one of my favourite historical fiction characters in this period. He is so well-rounded and unlike your stereotypical warrior. His character arc is unique and even so many books on from his humble beginning in Son of Mercia, his core character values are still well-defined and fit into the man he has become out of necessity. 

 

Narrative Style

Shield of Mercia is very easy to read – as I’ve already alluded to, I read most of the book in one go. The style of narrative lends itself to a storytelling structure. With just one point of view, we’re able to get a deeper sense of Icel’s perspective on events. 

Rightly or wrongly, his views shape our perception of other characters in the book. For the first time in this narrative, I asked myself whether Icel perceives events a certain way as he has a dislike for certain characters. So far in the series, I’ve taken that perception as truth rather than opinion. However, I’ve enjoyed questioning the validity of the narrative as presented. Outside of historical fiction, I do enjoy an unreliable narrator! 

 

Summary

Shield of Mercia has been a fun eighth instalment to the Eagle of Mercia chronicles to read. I’ve especially enjoyed the greater action and overt conflict on this book as opposed to the political scheming of Betrayal of Mercia. That’s not to say this doesn’t underpin events in the book, because they absolutely do! However, balance has been restored, and I can’t wait to see what scrapes Icel inevitably lands himself with next… 

 

Author Bio

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. Raised in the shadow of a building that was believed to house the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia, meant that the author’s writing destiny was set.

Social Media Links 

Facebook: @MJPorterauthor

Twitter: @coloursofunison

Instagram: @m_j_porter

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MJPorterNews

Bookbub profile: @coloursofunison

Book Review: Death of Kings – Bernard Cornwell

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My review of Death of Kings comes two years after I read the book. To say I needed to refresh myself on the events is an understatement! That’s why this post is out a day later than usual. Rather than rushing and putting out something I wasn’t happy with, I wanted to take my time and make sure I got it right. This book deserves that justice!

One of the reasons I’m glad to review Death of Kings is that it’ll remind and inspire me to continue reading the series. It’s been two years, but I’m yet to pick up the next book, The Pagan Lord, even when I said after I finished it I wanted to continue on soon. I’m somewhat familiar with the story as a whole as I watched the TV series and final film too. Even so, the books are always better and it was a while ago now since I watched them. As to what specifically happens in the next book, I’m not sure…


Death of Kings – Bernard Cornwell

Genre: Historical fiction

Pages: 335

Audience: Adult

Publisher: HarperCollins

Publication Date: 29 Sept 2011

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Goodreads – Death of Kings


As the ninth century wanes, England appears about to be plunged into chaos once more. For the Viking-raised but Saxon-born warrior, Uhtred, whose life seems to shadow the making of England, this presents him with difficult choices.

King Alfred is dying and his passing threatens the island of Britain to renewed warfare. Alfred wants his son, Edward, to succeed him, but there are other Saxon claimants to the throne as well as ambitious pagan Vikings to the north.

Uhtred‘s loyalty – and his vows – were to Alfred, not to his son, and despite his long years of service to Alfred, he is still not committed to the Saxon cause. His own desire is to reclaim his long-lost lands and castle to the north. But the challenge to him, as the king’s warrior, is that he knows that he will either be the means of making Alfred’s dream of a united and Christian England come to pass or be responsible for condemning it to oblivion.

This novel is a dramatic story of the power of tribal commitment and the terrible difficulties of divided loyalties.

This is the making of England, magnificently brought to life by the master of historical fiction.

 

My Thoughts

Plot

King Alfred hopes to leave behind a united England in death. However, with him ailing further, the peace and unity he strives for seems a long shot.

As ever, Uhtred finds himself stuck in the middle. Whilst he has a degree of loyalty to King Alfred, he also longs to undertake his own goal – to return to his homeland of Bebbanburg. He has no fealty or ties to Alfred‘s intended successor, Edward. Whilst Alfred hopes Uthred will support his claim, he doesn’t feel inclined to do so.

The result of all this internal conflict is that the Danes feel like they can take advantage of a weakened England. As in other books, there are numerous battles and skirmishes throughout!


Setting

As a key man taking part as a warrior, messenger, negotiator, and savour, Uhtred gets around a bit. The narrative roams all across the country of England as we know it today. Whilst there is a lot going on, this is well managed in the narrative so it’s easy to follow where events are taking place.

The constant action and changes of location keep the narrative interesting. Even if you aren’t a huge fan of books with a plot line involving politics, there is plenty of action in this book to counterbalance this. The frequent relocations of our main character keep us on our toes.


Characters

In Death of Kings, we get to see a mischievous side to Uhtred. In this instalment of the series, we actively see him undertaking the role of both the Saxon and a Dane and stirring up conflict. I quite enjoyed seeing the side of the story and this aspect of his character. It’s both entertaining to read, but also gives opportunity for a lot of internal conflict within Uhtred and testing where his loyalties lie.

He may have been born Saxon, but he was raised as a Dane, and in today’s society, we would say he identifies as a Dane. As to which side of the fence he should actually sit on is something that thus far in the series has swung backwards and forwards. I expect more of this conflict in future books, and I can’t wait to read on.


Narrative Style

If you like your historical fiction full of action, Death of Kings won’t disappoint. With numerous conflicts, both physical and political, throughout the book, there’s plenty to keep us occupied.

For me, the pacing of Death of Kings and the wider series as a whole suits me; there are moments of intense action, and the pages just fly by. Equally, there is enough time to reflect on what has happened and what the consequences are. The action doesn’t compromise the world-building, and overall, Death of Kings strikes an ideal balance between the two.


Summary

I’m a huge fan of Bernard Cornwell‘s Saxon stories series, and the latest instalment, Death of Kings, has lived up to the high expectations set by earlier books. This review hopefully encourages you to pick up the book but has likely also achieved its goal of reminding me of the series and giving me a nudge to pick up the book soon.

Have you read Death of Kings? What are your thoughts on this book or series?

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Blog Tour Review: Enemies of the Crown – Peter Gibbons

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It’s an absolute pleasure to bring to you the next instalment to Peter Gibbons’ The Saxon Warrior series. I’ve featured several books in this series on my blog to date. I’ve had a sizeable break from sharing blog tour posts. However, reviewing Enemies of the Crown is a no-brainer. I want to keep up with this series anyway, so why not do that as and when books are published?

As always when sharing blog tour posts, I like to thank both the author and Rachel at Rachel‘s Random Resources for organising. The other important thing to note is that I am providing this of my own free will; the thoughts expressed within are entirely my own.

If you enjoy historical fiction, in particular books set around the time when Vikings came to Britain, read on to find out more about this fifth instalment to The Saxon Warrior series!


Enemies of the Crown – Peter Gibbons

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 338

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Boldwood Books

Original Publication Date:  02 April 2025

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

 

Goodreads – Enemies of the Crown

A weakened crown. A country besieged by Vikings, suffering under the oppression of a powerful church.

994AD

King Aethelred the Unready’s rule falters. Policies recommended by the controlling bishops invite more attacks upon his Saxon kingdom as Sweyn Forkbeard, Viking battle-king of the Danes, grows in power; bloodthirsty for conquest.

Beornoth, Viking-killer and kings thegn believed his days in the shield wall to be over until summoned by the king to enforce a policy of retribution against his enemies.

In a time of shifting loyalties, alongside a savage warband of cruel Norman warriors, Beornoth embarks upon a brutal quest to rid England of King Aethelred’s so-called Viking enemies.

However, when this murderous campaign leads to the door of an old friend, Beornoth must choose sides, as his loyalty to king, country, and his brothers of the sword are put to the test.

Can Beornoth triumph over insurmountable odds in this shield splintering battle for the future of England itself?


Purchase Link


My Thoughts


Plot

If you enjoy internal conflict present in the likes of Bernard Cornwell’s The Last Kingdom, you’ll enjoy Enemies of the Crown. Like Uhtred, Beornoth finds himself with conflicted loyalties. Between the King he is honour-bound to serve and a Dane he loves as a brother, who does he choose? It seems an impossible decision.

As with all books in the series to date, there is plenty of action to keep us readers engaged. Between Saxon, Norman and Danish factions, it’s hardly surprising there’s a constant power struggle.

The pacing of the storyline and events suited my preferences. I was able to read most of this book in a day. That’s very fast, but it doesn’t have to be read that way either. I guess what I’m saying is the plot and writing are so engaging that I was motivated to!

I can only hope there are more books to come based on the ending – because it sounds like the conflict is not yet over.


Setting

The setting of Enemies of the Crown spans much of England as we know it today. Even if you are unfamiliar with historic town and city names (e.g Somersaete), I feel confident readers can follow along well. As a big fan of the genre through books and television, I’m pretty versed in this knowledge. It’s certainly not a requirement though.   

From a political setting point of view, events have moved on since earlier books in the series. Aethelred’s mother is back in a position of influence, and this is not to Beornoth’s liking. Ælfthryth set herself against Beornoth in the past. So, he is naturally wary of her power and influence over the King of England.

There is a good deal of travel that takes place within this narrative, but the vast majority takes place behind the scenes. This keeps the action moving along and helps keep pace and readers engaged.


Characters

I’ve enjoyed seeing a more vulnerable side to Beornoth this time round. In the earlier books of the series, he was a younger man – better able and more physically fit to fulfil his duty in purging Britain’s soil of marauding Vikings. In Enemies of the Crown however, he is starting to show his age. He isn’t quite as quick as he was, and it does land him in danger.

Beornoth is also quite a different character to the man we met in the first book of the series, Warrior and Protector. He is more at peace with his past and emotionally he is far more mature. I have enjoyed his character arc and progression without the series to date, and that includes in Enemies of the Crown.

The final conflict in Enemies of the Crown is an interesting development and thorough it we see a lot about Beornoth. His past traumas come into play and I found his reactions and perspective in this almost repeat scenario interesting.


Narrative Style

By now, Peter Gibbons way of narrating the series is familiar and well-loved. It’s been very easy to get back into the series. Even though the book gets into action quite quickly, there is enough recap included to remind us readers of prior events. As somebody who reads a lot of books, I appreciate these hints being dropped in. It makes for a better reading experience when you can recall what’s happened rather than having to look it up.

With relatively short chapters and a punchy, action driven narrative style, there was always something going on and Enemies of the Crown. And, that’s true for the whole series. I’ve really enjoying the pacing of the storytelling-there’s plenty of action to keep us engaged, but not so much that it feels like we barely take a breath before the next big event is happening.


Summary

Fans of historical fiction, and especially Viking-era Britain will love both Enemies of the Crown and the earlier books in the series, starting with Warrior and Protector. If you have yet to read it, I strongly suggest you do! It’s a series I love and will be keeping up with as soon as the next book is out!


Author Bio

Peter is the winner of the 2022 Kindle Storyteller Literary Award, and an author based in Kildare in Ireland, with a passion for Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Science Fiction, and of course writing! Peter was born in Warrington in the UK and studied Law at Liverpool John Moores University, before taking up a career in Financial Services and is now a full time author. Peter currently lives in Kildare Ireland, and is married with three children. Peter is an avid reader of both Historical Fiction and Fantasy novels, particularly those of Bernard Cornwell, Steven Pressfield, David Gemmell, and Brandon Sanderson.

His books include the Viking Blood and Blade Saga, the Saxon Warrior series, and the Chronicles of Arthur.

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