Woden’s Vengeance is an engaging and action-filled continuation of Octa’s story, set against the harsh and unpredictable backdrop of early England. The book opens with a fierce conflict on Thanet, where Octa and the Jutes are trapped, setting the tone for a story driven by survival, loyalty, and the ever-present influence of the gods. Octa’s…
Historical
Storm of Mercia by MJ Porter | Book Review
We are back with Icel, that curmudgeonly yet deeply loyal warrior of Mercia who seems destined to stumble from one hardship into the next. In this installment, all he wants is something simple—to reach Wynflæd before it’s too late. She has been like a mother to him, and that emotional drive adds a powerful layer…
Woden’s Storm by Donovan Cook | Book Review
This is the first book I’ve read in this series, and while Woden’s Storm is technically the second installment, I found it engaging and easy enough to follow on its own. The story wastes no time in pulling readers into the complex interplay between men and gods, belief and power, and the constantly changing political…
Camelot by Peter Gibbons | Book Review
Having already read books two and three in this series, I knew to expect intensity, depth, and heart—but Camelot exceeded all expectations. Arthur stands once again against the Saxon threat as Britain’s protector, Pendragon, but the greatest danger comes not across the sea—it’s at home. Rival kingdoms see him as a usurper, unwilling to band…
Ashes of Rebellion by Michael Jecks | Book Review
Having read book one of the series but not books two and three, I did find myself missing a bit of context going into Ashes of Rebellion. There’s little in the way of recap, which makes it harder for newer or lapsed readers to fully connect with some of the characters. Because of this, most…
Valour by Richard Cullen | Book Review
The third book in this powerful series takes the story to new heights, weaving together faith, loyalty, and the relentless brutality of 1223. A holy woman, Fabrisse, sets out with her companions to convert a pagan clan, but their mission ends in devastation, leaving Wace and his comrades to attempt a daring rescue. Bound by…
Warriors of Iron by M J Porter | Book Review
MJ Porter continues to amaze me with her ability to blend breathtaking battle scenes with rich, character-driven storytelling. While the clash of warriors is fierce, the true heart of Warriors of Iron lies in its characters and their relentless journeys. Meddi the Seeress is tireless in her search for Elen, and we learn more about…
Men of Iron by MJ Porter | Book Review
The story opens with Seeress Medi and her brother Madog reclaiming leadership of the Eorlingas Tribe after overthrowing Edern, the man who had murdered their father. Their rule is tested immediately when Edern’s widow, Elaine, reveals she’s pregnant. Instead of executing her, they imprison her in the grainhouse—an early twist that sets the tone for…
Tough Times on Coronation Close by Lizzie Lane | Book Review
Even without reading the earlier books in the series, I found The Close to be a richly woven, emotional story that swept me into the lives of its characters from the very first page. Set during the hardships of wartime, this book beautifully captures the daily struggles of ordinary people—especially the women—trying to protect their…
Enemies of the Crown by Peter Gibbons | Book Review
King Aethelred’s grip on the English throne grows more precarious by the day. His misguided policies—shaped by his inner circle of bishops—have not brought peace, but instead opened the floodgates to further Viking incursions. Sweyn Forkbeard, the fearsome battle-king of the Danes, is growing ever more bloodthirsty and relentless in his quest to conquer England….
