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4.21 AVERAGE
4.21 AVERAGE
This series just takes my breath away. It is a superbly told story that gripped me from beginning to end. This novel is the third in The Saxon Stories by Bernard Corwell. This is the story of Uhtred, born as a Saxon, taken by the Danes (Vikings) at the age of 10, and then raised as a Dane. He speaks both languages well, and seems to bounce back and forth from one culture to the other. And, besides being smart, he is a brilliant warrior.
Each character in the book comes to life, especially in the audiobook, read with clarity and distinction by Tom Sellwood. He makes each character sound distinct, and it is never difficult to tell who is speaking, because of Sellwood's accents. One cannot say that the accents are authentic, of course, since the story takes place in the ninth century. But, he uses English, Irish, Scotch, Danish, and other accents to good use throughout.
This series of historical novels has such a good reputation, that a TV series The Last Kingdom has been based on it, and is now up to 16 episodes (two series).
The protagonist in the story, Uhtred, lives to fight. A number of other characters also seem to have that aim in life. As a result, and because of the multiple would-be kings all have their subjects fighting for their hegemony, it seems like everybody in the land is touched by violence. Continuously. Almost without a break. So, as I listen to the story, I am reminded about how true the book [b:The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined|13543093|The Better Angels of Our Nature Why Violence Has Declined|Steven Pinker|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1513020635s/13543093.jpg|16029496] by Stephen Pinker is so true. A millennium ago, violence was a way of life.
Each character in the book comes to life, especially in the audiobook, read with clarity and distinction by Tom Sellwood. He makes each character sound distinct, and it is never difficult to tell who is speaking, because of Sellwood's accents. One cannot say that the accents are authentic, of course, since the story takes place in the ninth century. But, he uses English, Irish, Scotch, Danish, and other accents to good use throughout.
This series of historical novels has such a good reputation, that a TV series The Last Kingdom has been based on it, and is now up to 16 episodes (two series).
The protagonist in the story, Uhtred, lives to fight. A number of other characters also seem to have that aim in life. As a result, and because of the multiple would-be kings all have their subjects fighting for their hegemony, it seems like everybody in the land is touched by violence. Continuously. Almost without a break. So, as I listen to the story, I am reminded about how true the book [b:The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined|13543093|The Better Angels of Our Nature Why Violence Has Declined|Steven Pinker|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1513020635s/13543093.jpg|16029496] by Stephen Pinker is so true. A millennium ago, violence was a way of life.
adventurous
I really like this installment of the series. I enjoyed Gisela much more then Uhtred's past love interests. I felt that you can really feel Uhtred growing into a great man, one that is learning from his mistakes and hardships. I felt this was best seen in the way he feels about Alfred and when he forgives Guthred. That fact that he forgives Guthred is amazing because I know I wouldn't have. so it shows how much he's matured. With Alfred, Uhtred is learning how he thinks and why Alfred does what he does and is learning that even though Uhtred dislike Alfred he has to respect him
Spoiler
I mean he sold Uhtred into Slavery
The Saxon series continues to be interesting. This book was a change in narrator, Mr. Preeble did a fine job. Loved the historical notes at the end!
Oof this one was a big sad, but I loved meeting Finan and Sihtric! They’re so great.
adventurous
dark
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Ever since I discovered Cornwell’s Warlord Chronicles a few years back (which are now among my favourite books), I’ve been hooked on his novels. And while the first book in the Last Kingdom series didn’t resonate with me as much, now by this third novel I am engrossed! I did find the plot tended to drag a little in some places, while in others I wished he would have explored the story more. Even so, I’m excited to read the next book in the series! I always look forward to starting a Bernard Cornwall novel, in anticipation of being swept away into world from long ago, coming alive through vivid descriptions. Each book, including this one, is something to savour...
adventurous
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No