Travel back to a time where fact weaves freely with fiction, to a land of warring kings and battling religions in this completely captivating slice of historical fiction. It really doesn't feel as though the author has overly embellished this historical tale; instead he skilfully brings these people, their fears, thoughts and their gods to life with a raw realism. There are occasions when years are skipped, making you curious about these voids in history and ensuring that the tale that is revealed contains more intensity and depth. The scheming, intrigue, mistakes and the very practicalities of survival during this time are not only clear to see, they are also felt…so watch, listen, learn and wonder at this tale of ‘Edwin: High King of Britain’. Knowing that Bernard Cornwell has endorsed this fascinating novel gives a sense of anticipation when you start to read, knowing there is more to come in the ‘Northumbrian Thrones’ series when you finish, leaves you eagerly waiting for the next tale to begin. ~ Liz Robinson
Edwin, High King of Britain, brings to life the heroic age of our distant past, a splendid novel that leaves the reader wanting more. Bernard CornwellDebut historical fiction series vividly recreating the rise of the Christian kings of Northumbria, EnglandIn 604 AD, Edwin, the deposed king of Northumbria, seeks refuge at the court of King Raedwald of East Anglia. But Raedwald is urged to kill his guest by Aethelfrith, Edwin's usurper. As Edwin walks by the shore, alone and at bay, he is confronted by a mysterious figure--the missionary Paulinus-- who prophesies that he will become High King of Britain. It is a turning point.Through battles and astute political alliances Edwin rises to great power, in the process marrying the Kentish princess Aethelburh. As part of the marriage contract the princess is allowed to retain her Christian faith. But, in these times, to be a king is not a recipe for a long life.This turbulent and tormented period in British history sees the conversion of the Anglo-Saxon settlers who have forced their way on to British shores over previous centuries, arriving first to pillage, then to farm and trade--and to come to terms with the faith of the Celtic tribes they have driven out.The dramatic story of Northumbria's Christian kings helped give birth to England as a nation, English as a language, and the adoption of Christianity as the faith of the English.
