Category Archives: Historical Fiction

BLOG TOUR – Crusade by Richard Cullen

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Crusade by Richard Cullen!

Here’s the blurb.

Continuing the epic historical adventure series from Richard Cullen, featuring The Black Lion…

Stripped of his birthright, Estienne Wace seeks to prove his worth in the deserts of Outremer!

Egypt 1219AD.

Abandoning the safety of England for the perilous shores of the Levant, Estienne Wace is thrust into the turmoil of the Fifth Crusade. Burning with righteous purpose, he is determined to reclaim the Holy Land in the name of Christ.

War rages along the banks of the Nile as a crusading army besieges the Saracen city of Damietta, certain that the price they pay in blood will return the glory and treasures they crave. But as the Black Lion roars, and the siege grinds on, Estienne’s unwavering faith is tested more and more by the grim reality of this brutal conflict.

As the siege turns on a knife edge, Estienne finds himself thrust upon a journey across the merciless desert. Stripped of everything, and forced into a dangerous alliance, he will grapple with the true meaning of faith, honour, and the price of salvation, in a land where nothing is as he once believed.

Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell, Ben Kane and Conn Iggulden.

Review

We’ve come a long way with Estienne but he’s still trying to find his place in life.

Estienne sets out to show his worth and joins the Fifth Crusade.

War rages and the battles are bloody and brutal but something within Estienne changes. As time progresses and more blood is spilt on both sides, Estienne see’s the true cost of war.

When he first sets out for the cause he was certain it was right and just.. but as he meets the people that many would call enemy he starts to see them in a different light.

Its very much an internal struggle for Estienne.. he sees bad where he should see the righteous.. and good where he thought there was only evil.

Plot wise I loved it, the battles are detailed and exciting but it’s balanced perfectly with the development of Estienne when things don’t go to plan.  There’s a lot that happens to Estienne, but the pace never felt rushed and the character arc never forced.

While Estienne is a massive part of the story what I really felt the author did well was bringing in new characters who you instantly took a shine too. Kashta for example, a fierce warrior..Amalric a loyal companion.. these two especially stood out as being pivotal to the plot and Estienne’s development as his faith is shaking to the core.

For the hardcore fans of battle there’s plenty of blood shed but what I really loved was the emotion added, it’s not just a battle for the sake of it.. there’s real purpose to each thrust and I could easily read this book again and again!

I don’t think I’ve ever read something so perfectly balanced with plot & character development.. I mean..how.. there’s just no way you can improve.

Easy 5*

My thanks go to the author, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour

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

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

Richard Cullen is a writer of historical adventure and epic fantasy. Previously published by Head of Zeus and Orbit Books, his new historical adventure series for Boldwood, Chronicles of the Black Lion, set in thirteenth-century England, will launched in October 2024.

Social Media Links

Facebook: @Wordhog-100064278872214

Twitter: @rich4ord

Instagram: thewordhog

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

The Berlin Agent by Stephen Ronson – REVIEW

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Today I’m reviewing The Berlin Agent by Stephen Ronson

Here’s the blurb

A country at war. Bombers fill the skies. A parachute drops in the dead of night…

England 1940: Paris has fallen to the Third Reich. Farmer John Cook and society heiress Lady Margaret are waiting for the day when German tanks roll across the green fields of their homes. Both are ready for the moment they will disappear into the woods and the fields to carry out their top-secret orders – to do whatever it takes to fight the Nazis once they arrive on British soil.

Their worst fears are realised when a parachutist drops from a German bomber during an air raid. Arriving at the scene, Cook finds the white silk hanging from a branch, and a mysterious crate containing a complex piece of machinery. The spy is nowhere to be found.

But at night, Cook and Margaret hear German voices in the darkness. Reports come in of others hearing similar things, and there are whispers of an agent from Berlin…

With enemies already hiding among them, how far will Cook and Margaret go to protect the country and the people they love?

Review

After previously dabbling into the authors world and style of storytelling I was looking forward to reading this one.

Paris has fallen to the Third Reich and Farmer John Cook is on the lookout for spies.

Tension is high and one night a parachute is seen in the sky.. Cook sets out to find out who or what was dropped but things are a little muddled in the dark and who or whatever it was remains a mystery.

Cook tries to get on with his day to day life while keeping an eye out.. and two things quickly become apparent… at times strange voices can be heard.. are they German? And if so where are they?

The second thing is.. could there be trouble closer to home..there’s a lot of drama but is anything connected? Cook is a man of principle and he won’t stand by when someone needs help.. but can he keep everyone safe?

There’s a complex web of events that link wonderfully but at the same time mean the reader is thrown off the scent right until the moment the author wants you to know more. It’s a engaging puzzle waiting to be solved.

Plot and characters both developed at an easy to read pace.. there’s lots of meat on the bone with this one, plenty to get to grips with but it’s clever and gripping in it’s nature. The plot and characters support each other in the development so nothing felt out of place or rushed.

The only word I can think of to sum up the story is EXCITING. From first page to last it’s fun and intriguing, an exciting bunch of characters and you never really know what will happen next. 5/5 stars!

To find out more head to Amazon or Goodreads.

BLOG TOUR – Betrayal of Mercia by MJ Porter

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Betrayal of Mercia by MJ Porter!

Here’s the blurb

A King in crisis, a Queen on trial, a Kingdom’s survival hangs in the balance.

Londonia, AD835
The deadly conspiracy against the children of Ealdorman Coenwulf is to be resolved. Those involved have been unmasked and arrested. But will justice prevail?

While the court convenes to determine the conspirator’s fate, King Wiglaf’s position is precarious. His wife, Queen Cynethryth, has been implicated in the plot and while Wiglaf must remain impartial, enemies of the Mercia still conspire to prevent the full truth from ever being known.

As Merica weeps from the betrayal of those close to the King, the greedy eyes of Lord Æthelwulf, King Ecgberht of Wessex’s son, pivot once more towards Mercia. He will stop at nothing to accomplish his goal of ending Mercia’s ruling bloodline.

Mercia once more stands poised to be invaded, but this time not by the Viking raiders the so fear.

Can Icel and his fellow warriors’ triumph as Mercia once more faces betrayal from within?

Review

Is this really book 7 in the series already?? So much has happened to Icel yet it feels like only yesterday we met the young boy, supported by his Uncle, trying to find his place in life!

What’s in store next? Well the deadly conspiracy against the children of Ealdorman Coenwulf was uncovered with the help of Icel and now it’s time for those involved to pay the price.. this includes the Queen!!

Mercia has been forced to not only fight enemies from far afield.. but also those close to home and this is a major concern for all those involved.. King Wiglal.. and Mercia want justice..

The Wessex King and his men won’t let this lie though and Mercia is hit with even more betrayal and death as the tale unfolds.

I don’t want to spoil the plot for anyone but let’s just say the case against the Queen isnt as open and shut as the King would like and she still holds some power…and she’s not as helpless as it may seem.

I really found it fascinating to learn of a person’s worth during such instances, and that being in a position of power almost certainly made you trustworthy.. and the words of the common man/woman almost useless unless someone of power would speak of their worth. It really added the depth to that particular section of the story and added an extra umph when we are so used to excitement of battles and blood being the main focus.

Oh and don’t worry the battles are to come as things come to fruition and Wessex make their move.

Character depth and development was spot on as usual. Being on book 7 it’s credit to the author that they manage to keep adding naturally flowing detail into such a pivotal plot. I really love the little tit bits of the past thrown in too, memories on Icel’s uncle, the burning of Icel’s hand for example. These were great little ways for a new reader to be brought into the tale but also exciting for those devoted to the series as we have the chance to reminisce.

MJ Porter has a talent for historical fiction and this ever clearer when you see the shear amount of characters involved in the tale, which must have taken meticulous planning to not mix up names at pivotal points. I love Porter’s style too, I’ll be the first to admit names can be hard to retain in novels such as this are they aren’t names used in todays world.. but Porter manages to introduce what feels like natural pause points when the reader can reflect, and really absorb what is being told.

I’ve never really liked King Wiglaf but in this instalment It really showed him in a different light… the question is will he figure out who Icel really is and his family links? The King is kind to him now but if he see’s him as a threat to the throne will he be so kind?

How long can Icel hide the truth…

Without spoiling things I can honestly say this instalment is the best yet, flow is effortlessly perfect and the plot excruciatingly riveting.. I’m just glad I have the commute to work to enjoy the tale as I didn’t want to put this one down!

5/5 Stars

My thanks go to the author, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour

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

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. They were raised in the shadow of a building that they believed housed the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia – so their writing destiny was set. The first novel in their new Anglo-Saxon series for Boldwood Son of Mercia was published in February 2022.

Social Media Links

Facebook: @MJPorterauthor

Twitter: @coloursofunison

Instagram: @m_j_porter

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

Bookbub profile: @coloursofunison

BLOG TOUR – Pendragon by Peter Gibbons

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Pendragon by Peter Gibbons!

Here’s the blurb

To save his people, a warrior must become more than a kin

Dark Age Britain crumbles.
Cruel Kings of Britain sit alone atop their hilltop fortresses as brutal Saxon invaders push ever forwards, greedy for plunder and weakened British kingdoms to conquer.

Blood feuds, jealousy, and pride keeps these Kingdoms isolated. Only the Pendragon, Uther, the high King of kings, has the power to unite the armies of Britain against their common enemy. But Uther Pendragon refuses to march to war as the Saxon hordes under the bloodthirsty leadership of Lord Octha grow ever stronger, quashing all that stands in his way.

Arthur leads a solitary warband, searching wild and lawless badlands bringing the fight to the savage Saxon warlords. As war brews, Merlin stirs up legends of Arthur, Excalibur, and the old gods, kindling a spark of hope in men’s hearts to unite and fight back.

As Saxon armies mass for war and destruction, Arthur must embrace the legend.
Can he bring the Pendragon to war, and march with the force of Britain to crush the Saxon invaders?
It will take all of Merlin’s power, Arthur’s iron will, and the strength of Excalibur to win this epic battle for the future of Britain.

The continuation of the compelling, fast-paced series from bestselling writer Peter Gibbons. Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell.

Review

Pendragon is the second book in the The Chronicles of Arthur series by Peter Gibbons I stumbled happily upon the author about 2 years ago with the release of his Saxon Warrior series and I’ve been hooked on the authors works ever since.

The first book in the series nicely laid the foundations. Leaving the reader with almost a sense of dread in the pit of your stomach as you know things were starting to heat up.

I was keen to see how the author would build on the story and how he would find time to develop the characters in such a plot driven tale.

Saxon invaders are pushing through Britian laying waste to everything Arthur holds dear. Uther Pendragon has the might to bring down upon the invaders but sits by as war wages on.

Merlin…ah Merlin.. he’s a clever one and Gibbons expertly shows how he is able to manipulate not only the people around him but also Arthur. Merlin knows what he wants to happen and weaves the tales around Excalibur to excite Arthur, breathing hope into a world where it’s almost been lost.

Merlin is great manipulator, that’s his real power, and as the story unfolds you can see just how much the people of Britain need him. Don’t get me wrong Arthur is brilliant but without Merlin would the fight have been taken to the Saxons….They need each other and their skills complement each other.

In what I’ve come to expect and love from the author the story is fast paced but Gibbons effortlessly seems to be able to add the character development I need to truthly become invested in a series along with adding beautiful details throughout allowing you to envisage the time, location, the people. I really don’t understand how the author manages to weave such a well-rounded tale bringing all the different needs together, adding in his magic sparkle into such a heaving plot driven tale it’s a real talent to actually make the characters themselves come alive.. especially the likes of Arthur, Merlin and Uther.. I think most people will know of these characters, myths.. legends.. there’s a wealth of tales that have been told so credit to the author to not only make a story that feels fresh and new but at the same time comfortable.. it’s like Gibbons has masterfully brought together all the little traits and details of these characters throughout the years and has skilfully added his own impressions to make these individuals really come to life.

I’m not going to spoil the action aspects of the story but for fans of the genre it’s got everything you need… battle with plenty of blood to be spilt.. it’s a boiling pot of tension and exhaustion.

The plot is fascinating and captivating but balanced perfectly with the character ark, things naturally progress rather than being forced along, neither overshadows rather so they support each other.

Overall what always impresses me with Peter Gibbons is within a well-established genre he keeps offering something new that demands your every ounce of being from the first page.

5*

My thanks go to the author, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour

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

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

Peter Gibbons is a financial advisor and author of the highly acclaimed Viking Blood and Blade trilogy. He originates from Liverpool and now lives with his family in County Kildare.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @PeterGibbonsAuthor

Twitter: @AuthorGibbons

Instagram: @PeterMGibbons

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

BLOG TOUR – Rebellion by Richard Cullen

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Rebellion by Richard Cullen

Here’s the blurb

The start of an epic new historical adventure series from Richard Cullen introducing The Black Lion

As war approaches, the lion will roar…

1213AD.

King Richard the Lionheart is dead, and his brother, John Lackland, sits uneasily upon the throne of England.

Across the sea, Prince Louis, heir to the powerful King Philip Augustus of France, looks to King John’s crown with a covetous eye.

But King John must be wary of rebellion, as well as invasion, for even his own barons would see their king unseated, and the French pretender put in his place.

Thrust amid this tumult is young Estienne Wace, orphan squire to Earl William Marshal – the greatest knight to ever serve the kings of England, and one of the few men who still holds faith in King John’s rule.

Raised by Marshal as his ward, Estienne must prove himself worthy of his adopted father’s name, but acceptance may be the least of his troubles. War is looming, as usurpers emerge from every quarter, determined to steal England’s crown from its most wretched king.

Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell, Ben Kane and Conn Iggulden.

Review

Oh wow.. what an opening. Brutal and gory from the off..

King Richard is dead and John is now on the throne but it’s not going to be easy sailing.. he doesn’t make any friends with his approach to ruling.

We see events play out from the eyes of Estienne, he’s just a young boy but little does he know how his life is about to change. Estienne is sent to Earl William, Marshal of England to foster and to be trained as a squire, to earn his footing in life.

It’s not an easy start.. not every one is as welcoming as Earl William.. in fact at times he sees pure hatred directed towards him but he knows given time he can prove his worth!

There’s a lot of action.. and the pace is fast.. but never rushed..as we see the downfall of King John.. rebellion and war with France.. the whole brutality of war quickly changes Estienne. He’s young and rash but William starts to tame the energy.. gives Estienne the focus he needs.

These early scenes really set the tone and give the depth to Estienne.. you actually see his growth and his nervous energy seeps from the pages.

The book is not for the faint of heart.. its brutal and grisly but never gratuitous.. it’s about Estienne becoming a man in the time he lived

What I really enjoyed was how easily the tale was woven.. John’s reign is a pivotal part of the tale but there’s more..and when the Earl dies a letter is found which changes Estienne’s life once again..

For me this was one of the best balanced books I’ve ever read with the setting and development perfectly mashed together.. there’s so much going on but at the same time so much under the surface and the author teases the reader.. oh my it’s a gloriously wonderful story and sets up the promise of what could be the best series I’ve ever read.. I’ve high hopes for this one.

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon.

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

Why not follow the tour..

Author Bio –

Richard Cullen is a writer of historical adventure and epic fantasy. His historical adventure series Chronicles of the Black Lion is set in thirteenth-century England.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @Wordhog

Twitter: @rich4ord

Instagram: @thewordhog

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

The Vengeance of Merlin by Steven A. McKay  (Warrior Druid of Britain Book 6)

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Today I’m reviewing the newly released The Vengeance of Merlin by Steven A. McKay  (Warrior Druid of Britain Book 6)

What better way to celebrate publication day than with the David’s Book Blurg treatment!

Here’s the blurb

The brand new instalment in the Warrior Druid of Britain Chronicles sees Bellicus of Dun Breatann facing not only bloodthirsty enemies but also the biggest decision of his life in this fast-paced historical thriller!
AD 434 – Caer Legion, Western Britain
A heinous crime is perpetrated against the druids of Britain and a grief-stricken Bellicus suddenly finds his world changing in ways he never expected. Before he can begin to make sense of things the terrible news that the Picts have allied with the Saxons and now march on Dun Breatann together spurs the warrior-druid into action, and soon he and his companions are racing homewards.Horsa, fearsome leader of the sea-wolves, promises to use any tactic – including torture and dark magic – against Bellicus’s terrified Damnonii people who are being slaughtered and dragged from their burnt out villages to please the Saxons’ brutal gods.
Bellicus, his friend Duro, and the great war-dog Cai will need all their bravery, experience, and cunning to stand against the insane cruelty of the raiders which even shocks their own allies in the Pictish army.
Many will fall as the fighting rages, but can bonds of loyalty, friendship, and family be enough to save Queen Narina and the people of Dun Breatann from the grim fate their enemies have planned for them?
This new Warrior Druid of Britain adventure is sure to delight lovers of fast-paced historical fiction, especially readers of Peter Gibbons, Griff Hosker, and Bernard Cornwell.

Saxons and Picts come together to conquer Northern Britain, but when the war is over they must face the vengeance of Merlin!

Review

It’s been a while since we’ve seen the big warrior Druid Bellicus, but it honestly feels like home being back with the big guy, the centurion Duro  and Bel’s loyal companion Cai.

The Damnonii people are in danger but little does Bel know how much danger. The Saxons are on the warpath, led by the despicable Horsa, with Sigarr by his side. The Saxon’s have a grudge against Bel and the Damnonii and you know this just can’t end well!

When we see Bel, he and Duro are travelling. The Merlin has called a moot and every Druid from far and wide is attending.. These events don’t happen often so it’s a time of excitement and energy. The Druids spend their time sharing knowledge, discussing the threats faced from the Saxon’s and the Christians.. it’s during these events that the most heinous crime occurs that rocks the Druid community to the core.

There’s no time to digest things though as Bel quickly learns of an attack on Dun Breatann! Bel as we know loves Dun Breatann.. the people.. the place.. but there’s two other things that keep his heart there too Narina and Catia. The woman he loves but can’t have, and the daughter he fathered in a night of drunken madness..

Bel must head back to Dun Breatann but he also has to balance his commitments to the Druids and to Arthur the warlord who is leading the resistance against the Saxons.

When Bel gets back to Dun Breatann he has to use all his skills as a Druid and every trick up his sleeve to defeat the enemy.. but will it be enough.. and how many countless will die for nothing..

I’ve been a little vague I must admit as I don’t want to spoil the twists the author has thrown in but rest assured The Vengeance of Merlin has your heart in your throat from the first page to last.

I loved that the book still has battles but at the same time the focus is more on the build up.. the torture of the innocents caught up in the fight. It humanised the war and the worst moments even had me queasy.. the emotion pours off the page affecting the reader as much as those within the tale.

There’s still some fun light-hearted moments when Bel has a bit of fun with his Druid trickery but they are few and far between for Bel in this grief stricken instalment.

Let’s get on to characters and development .. wow… we meet new characters as well as getting acquainted with old friends and foes. Each shine though in their own right… the Volva, Yngvildr for example, god she’s brutal in her torturous ways but damn she makes things exciting.

One of the new characters we meet towards to end of the tale is Oengus.. his part isn’t huge but I’m hoping we see him again as I was immediately drawn to him.. I have hope that he and another returning character Aife will appear again somewhere down the line.

There’s a very interesting Saxon too..Saksnot..let’s just say by the time you know his name you’ll understand why he excited me.. he’s got a talent.. and a mission..

I won’t lie the tale did hurt at times.. no ones safe and at every turn of the page you can’t help but worry what might befall your favourite characters.. but this just added to the tension and the overall excitement I felt reading the tale.

The Vengeance of Merlin perfectly sets up for the next instalment.. no one comes out of the one unscathed.. Hengist may be down south battling Arthur’s forces but the winner isn’t certain and what does this mean for Bel and the people he loves.

For fans of the series there’s so much to enjoy with this one and the author has been very cunning with the detail, perfectly blended so if someone was to join now they could quickly understand the main players in the tale. Even as someone whose been there from the start even I enjoyed reminding myself of the back story.. events just stick with you.. Duro’s past for example.. the little reminders take you right back to the beginning when he couldn’t even get that chainmail on..

5*

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon!

BLOG TOUR – Valhalla’s Fury, (The Charlemagne’s Cross Series, Book 4) by Donovan Cook

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Valhalla’s Fury, (The Charlemagne’s Cross Series, Book 4) by Donovan Cook!

Here’s the blurb

Abandoned by his people and destined for Valhalla, do not stand in the way of his fury.

Ribe is lost, its hall burnt, and Charles is still missing. Sven must once more sail into dangerous waters to rescue his grandson.

King Louis of East Francia, the man who took Sven’s son from him almost twenty years ago, has Charles captive and uses him to force Sven to do his bidding and create chaos raiding his brothers Kingdom of West Frankia.

The long awaited meeting of Charles and his mother, Abbess Hildegard, is not what Charles dreamed it would be and soon it becomes clear that Charles is in even more danger. Torn between the heathen gods and his Christian god, Charles must decide where his future lies.

Sven must fight if he wants to see Charles again and keep the Cross of Charlemagne out of the hands of the Frankish kings. The only thing that Sven knows is that to save Charles, innocent people must die.

Review

I’ve been with this series since the beginning and was so looking forward to more adventures with Sven the Boar!

After events in the last book Sven’s home, Ribe, Is lost and his grandson missing. There’s nothing left for Sven to do than to set out to find Charles and get him to safety. He failed him once before and he has no plans to let him down again.

Sven and those loyal to him set out to meet with King Louis.. there’s not really a game plan here..he will do anything to see his grandchild safe.

King Louis has the upper hand from the start, the location of the meeting is very poignant and sets the tone for the tale.. history and the present are about to clash one final time..

Forced to submit Sven sets out to secure Charles safety by causing chaos around West Frankia.. the fighting is brutal and you can really see it take it’s toll on Sven who while under the bloodlust fights like the boar he is.. but he’s no love for it.. he’s fighting for Charles..

At the same time Charles has to grow himself, to learn how to stand up for himself, he’s still young but he’s forced to battle his demons, the deal with death and destruction that has surrounded him these past few years.

What I really enjoyed was the depth and growth of Charles and Sven, both battle the same issues, separated by faith in different gods each struggle to reconcile the death and destruction.. and who is actually watching over them. It’s a connection the two never really understand they have and the inner turmoil these two suffer is beautifully awful for the reader.

The fight scenes are superbly detailed but more than anything moving.. reading those scenes really evoked something within the reader… it’s harrowing but gives you chills with the excitement too!

I’m not going to spoil anything but the author really had me on the edge throughout this one. You never know what’s to come and you fear for the characters.

Development wise I loved the emotion added subtly.. the details bout the families following the men to war.. even the planning of events such as the sacking of farms etc.. every event had an undercurrent of emotion behind it.

Sven always hoped he would do something worthy enough to have ballads written about him.. Valhalla’s’ Fury is Sven’s ballad and I’m glad I took the time to listen to and enjoy the tale.

For fans of the series this won’t disappoint. I think you could pick this up now and understand the story as the author nicely adds detail when needed to give the reader the background but personally I’d say start at the beginning to really enjoy and understand the mighty SVEN!!

This is Sven’s tale of glory and redemption and it’s a ballad worthy 5*

My thanks go to the author, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour, I’ve been a fan of the author for a while so I was already grabbing a copy anyway, so what better way to share my thought then during the blog tour!

Want to grab a copy?

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

Why not follow the tour?

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: https://www.facebook.com/DonovanCookAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DonovanCook20

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

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/donovan-cook

Their Castilian Orphan (The Castilian Saga Book 4) by Anna Belfrage

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Today I’m reviewing Their Castilian Orphan (The Castilian Saga Book 4) by Anna Belfrage.

Here’s the blurb

It is 1294 and Eustace de Lamont is back in England after five years in exile. He will stop at nothing to ruin Robert FitzStephan and his wife, Noor d’Outremer.

Robert’s half brother, Eustace de Lamont, has not mellowed during his absence. He is more ruthless than ever, and this time he targets Robert’s and Noor’s foster son, Lionel.

Lionel is serving King Edward as a page when Eustace appears at court. Not only does Lionel become the horrified witness to Eustace’s violent streak, Eustace also starts voicing his suspicions about Lionel’s parentage. The truth about Lionel’s heritage is explosive—should King Edward find out, all would be lost for Robert and Noor.

In October of 1294, Wales rises in rebellion. Robert must leave his family unprotected to fight the Welsh rebels on the king’s behalf, comforted only by the fact that Eustace too is called to fight.

Except that Eustace has no intention of allowing his duty to his king—or a mere rebellion—come between him and his desire to destroy Robert FitzStephan . . .

Review

When I was offered the chance to read Their Castilian Orphan I thought I’d give it go.. I love the authors work so why not…but being book 4 in the series would I be missing anything? I’ve not read the rest of the series and jumping in this late always worries me…

I need not have worried though. Belfrage is one of those authors who really understands flow and detail which effortlessly allowed me to feel at home, rather than an imposter in the tale.

The first thing that really hit me was the raw emotion.. from the outset the tale is hard hitting.. Although I didn’t really know the characters yet I quickly started to warm to them and the events that took place.

I quickly learned about Lionel a foster child of Robert FitzStephan, a knight, and his wife, Noor d’Outremer. To many Lionel is simply and orphan.. but little do they know Lionel is actually an heir in his own right.. an heir of a former leader of the Welsh uprising.

I must admit I did get sidetracked here as I love a good uprising but the author keeps you focused well on the current events.

Lionel is now serving the King Edward and he’s earned some respect from the man.. he likes Lionel but with this favouritism comes the downsides..  not everyone looks at Lionel like the King does, some are quite jealous too.

Robert’s half-brother, Eustace is one who sets his sights on doing everything he can to bring his brother down..and one way he can do that is through Lionel.

When the worst happens and war looms tensions rise..and there’s a real chance friends could end up on opposite sides of the conflict.

There’s clearly friendships that have formed over the years and while I’m late to the party the emotion and pure connection is there..

So my go to for reviews is to talk about character development and for this one it’s even more important since I’ve come to the series late.. do I fell like I’ve missed anything?? Yeah…of course but the flow and development is so on-point if anything it just makes me want to read the rest of the books…I want to see the connections grow… did it diminish the tale… not one bit.. I quickly got to grips with the setting and the events. I guess just knowing the authors work I can tell just how good the rest of the series must be!

Now one topic if you read my reviews is my aversion to romance.. it’s not like I don’t want it in a book.. I just want the romance to flow natural, to understand the connections and emotion behind the romance. Being a fan of the author I already knew I was going to appreciate the romance when it was included and I couldn’t have be more correct. The emotion added with those scenes really helped me see how intertwined Robert and Noor are.. and their love for Lionel. Im a self confessed action fan… fight fight fight.. so It’s the level of thought in these sections that really adds the depth I need as a reader to enjoy it.

Oh, and for the fans of the actions like me there’s plenty to get to grips with but what Belfrage gets spot on is mirroring the fierceness of battle with the honest brutal emotions we go through in life..The same passion pours off the page during the battles as it does with the romantic scenes and it just gives it a wonderful balance.

Belfrage knows how to give you the perfectly rounded tale but it’s a roller-coaster with your emotions high from the first page to last.

5/5 Stars.

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon!

My thanks go to Anna Belfrage to allowing me an arc to aid my review. As a fan of the author I’ve also purchased a copy too!

BLOG TOUR – Excalibur by Peter Gibbons – (The Arthurian Chronicles Book 1)

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Today we kick off the blog tour for Excalibur by Peter Gibbons!

Here’s the blurb

The sword has the power of Britain in its steel, men will follow and fight for whoever wields it…

Dark Age Britain. A legendary hero rises to unite a divided and threatened land…

A country left in ruins after the fall of the Roman Empire is plundered and broken. Saxon hordes have invaded and conquered the East coast of Britain in a blood-soaked Great War which tore the old kingdoms apart. From Bernicia to Kent, land and kingdoms are now under Saxon rule. But these new conquerors want more…

Britain’s remaining kingdoms are jaded by the constant threat of war, their Kings old, alliances fickle and frayed. It seems Britain must fall enslaved to the brutal and marauding conquerors from across the sea.

But no one counted on a new and fearsome warlord. A warrior granted power by the druid Merlin through the mighty sword Excalibur. A man with no Kingdom but a quest to unite the country and fight back against the baying Saxon warriors? He is known as the legendary Arthur.

The compelling, fast-paced start of a brand new series from bestselling writer Peter Gibbons. Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwall.

Praise for the series:

‘Epic, brutal action’ – Matthew Harffy

‘Bloody and brutal, Peter’s vivid writing really brings the story to life.’ – Donovan Cook

‘A superbly atmospheric tale of redemption that pitches the English against Viking raiders and resounds with the fierceness of battle-hardened warriors’ – MJ Porter

‘Thunderously atmospheric! Gibbons once again proves himself a master of Viking & Dark Age lore.’ – Gordon Doherty

‘Absolutely cracking. The best Viking saga I’ve read in years. A joy to pick up again.’ – Ross Greenwood

Review

To say Peter Gibbons has fast become a favourite of mine is an understatement. The author and publisher Boldwood, have been killing it in the historical fiction genre recently so when I learnt a new series was starting you can imagine the excitement I felt.

The Arthurian Chronicles tells us about one of the most fascinating characters in history in my opinion – Arthur. From a young age Arthur held a lot of interest to me.. mainly because no one could say one way or another if he existed but the whole idea of Arthur and the sword Excalibur excited me! for me it’s a risk going for Arthur as you need to get that excitement level right to match the myths, and the reader is going to have high expectations.

Did Gibbons deliver? Of course he did!! Gibbons knows his craft and most certainly knows his audience. We have what I’ve come to expect…the wonderful, dark and gruesome gore that any battle loving fan needs but the story is wonderfully weaved with fact and fiction.. I think that’s what makes Gibbon’s writing so exciting to read as his topics always allow some leeway for events to play out and you can really see the effort put into the tale to make the pieces come together.

The author isn’t afraid of detail either, setting the scene.. the ensemble cast too with many a familiar name, each play a part in the development and flow of the tale but in typical Gibbon’s style nothing Is forced in there, its done in what feels like such an effortless way, but I know must have took quite some time to write.

Book 1 is all about laying the foundations but that doesn’t mean you don’t have excitement and you can tell towards the end of the book that a battle is brewing.. but there’s still time for the author to keep the reader on their toes too leaving the reader fulfilled..but at the same time in silent shock.

I know I bang on about pace and flow.. probably way too much… but Peter Gibbon’s gets it.. the mix is so perfect it builds the excitement from the 1st page to last..

Don’t just take my word for any this either.. just look at the praise for the author.. Harffy, Cook, Porter and Doherty.. all household names in my book and certainly authors who are keeping my bookshelves full.

I did want to say there’s a downside but there isnt.. I’m always keen to crack on with the next book..luckily I won’t need to wait long with the next instalment already up for pre-order for release later in the year!

A very impressive read and after enjoying a lot of the authors books of late I feel like it’s also something new and fresh allowing Gibbon’s to further cement himself as one of the best authors out there!

A wonderous 5* read.

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

My thanks go to Rob Sinclair, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I only accept ARCs to aid timely reviews but this will certainly be adding a paperback to the permanent collection

Why not follow the tour?

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 and the first novel in his new Saxon Warrior Series entitled Warrior & Protector was released on 31st October 2022 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B45MMSBV . You can visit Peter’s website at www.petermgibbons.com .

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Bookbub profile: Peter Gibbons Books – BookBub

BLOG TOUR – Raven Lord: The Last Viking, Book 2 by JC Duncan – REVIEW

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Raven Lord by JC Duncan!

Here’s the blurb

Mercenary. Exile. Warlord.

At the edge of the world, the clouds of war are gathering…

1034AD

Cast out from the Kyivan Rus, Harald Sigurdsson’s quest for fame and fortune takes him to the far reaches of Europe; the lands of the Eastern Roman empire.

The empire is dying the slow death of decay and corruption. In desperation to fend off a myriad of foes, the emperor turns to the legendary Varangian guard for salvation. These deadly warriors from the far north, famed for their fearsome steel and battle skill, have become the empire’s greatest protectors.

From the golden gate of Constantinople to the holy waters of the river Jordan, Harald will march with the emperor’s finest. Joining their ranks promises him all the gold and glory he can desire, if only he can survive the desperate battles, the hostile land, and the ruthless ambition of a vengeful queen.

The fascinating next book in the extraordinary tale of Harald Hardrada.
Perfect for fans of Matthew Harffy, Peter Gibbons, Bernard Cornwell and Christian Cameron

Review

One of the things I loved about the previous book in the series was the style of the writing .  I love history but I always found text books hard to wrap my head around.. I need it presented in a different way and that’s exactly what JC Duncan does..he adds the excitement and makes it come to life, and that buzz is what makes you want to learn more.

Raven Lord picks up after the events of the previous book Warrior Prince and I loved the preface added by the author. There’s a lot to take in when it comes to history so it was great to have a rundown before starting the next instalment, this allows for a quick refresh if you read the previous book but would also allow someone to read this as a standalone as it sets the scene perfectly for new readers.

Harald’s tale is an amazing one but I feel what makes it more amazing is how the author presents it.. we all know Harald must have been a strong and influential man to become the legend he is but it’s the ensemble cast in Raven Lord that brings life to that.. it’s the way his men act.. the awe they have when talking about him, it really makes you understand what kind of man Harald must have been to garner the respect of the men who fought with him.

With any book like this it’s all in the detail..What JC Duncan shows is his time and commitment to that detail.. the setting.. the changing landscape of the world..locations, people, small details like food, clothes.. even down to the lines on their faces… everything is designed to put you right there on the bench next to these men.

I’m a fan of history but what I love about the way it’s presented in such a book like this is the added excitement and I loved reading the historical note where you get down to some real nitty gritty and it was fascinating to learn that Harald’s adventures were even documented in some Byzantine works. I never learnt about the The Byzantine Empire in school.. never even heard of them until I started reading books myself and the more I do the more I’m in awe of them.

I’m not going to spoil the events of the book but what I will say is that sometimes the real interesting bits of history are glossed over.. well that’s how I feel anyway… I never had any Idea Harald’s life spanned so much.. how much that man did in his life… You can really start you understand how imposing this man must have been. Harald is known for 1066.. but there’s so much more to the man.. I had an indifference to the man prior to reading this series… but now I think even I would have followed such a man.. wow.

Plot wise I think Harald clearly steals the show.. it’s his tale but credit really does need to go to the author for bringing events to life, to give the reader something they’ve not had before. Throughout I could help but feel the love the author must have for the subject themselves and the time commitment they must have but it in write such a details tale.

JC Duncan stimulates the readers mind.. opens you up to learning and reminds us how fascinating history is!

5/5 Stars…

To find out more head to Goodreads.

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

My thanks go to @rararesources for having me on the tour, as well as the author and publisher for supplying an ARC to aid my review. As usual though… I’ve bought the book too. At £2.99 It’s too good not too!

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

James has a 5 book historical fiction series ‘The Last Viking’ about the extraordinary life of Harald Hardrada being published with Boldwood books starting with ‘Warrior Prince’. When he isn’t writing or doing his full-time engineering job, James is happiest being an amateur bladesmith, forging knives in the shed he built in his garden.

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