Angenga
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Caryl Spurdin 5.0 out of 5 stars Not to be missed!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 August 2020 John Broughton must spend hours researching his books as invariably they demonstrate accurate knowledge of the period in history in which they take place. But he has shown in this extremely clever novel that he is especially adept at writing brilliant fiction alongside historical relevance. This book shows all the hallmarks of a master craftsman. An intriguing story, impeccably researched, beautifully constructed and filled with engaging characters, sparkling and sometimes humorous dialogue, and a real twist in the tale at the end. |
Sashadoo VINE VOICE 5.0 out of 5 stars The concept of time?
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 March 2021
The title of this book intrigued me and I thought it would quickly be explained as I began reading but no, the author cleverly keeps us dangling like a fish on a hook until right at the end, when at last we learn what Angenga means. The book is so well written that it's hard to know how much is real and how much is the product of the author's imagination.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 March 2021
The title of this book intrigued me and I thought it would quickly be explained as I began reading but no, the author cleverly keeps us dangling like a fish on a hook until right at the end, when at last we learn what Angenga means. The book is so well written that it's hard to know how much is real and how much is the product of the author's imagination.
Kindle Customer 5.0 out of 5 stars What fun!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 June 2019
A great romp through a time vortex into Anglo Saxon Lincolnshire. You learn so much but so are lightly told in this engaging time-slip. loved it.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 June 2019
A great romp through a time vortex into Anglo Saxon Lincolnshire. You learn so much but so are lightly told in this engaging time-slip. loved it.
Reviews of the Saint Cuthbert Trilogy
Heaven in a Wild Flower Amazon Customer 5.0 out of 5 stars Breathtakingly wonderful.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 November 2020
I had forgotten how much I enjoyed stories set in the past, especially in Saxon times. I have loved writers such as Cornwell, Bernard Knight, Ellis Peters, Tremayne and many more and, Broughton is most definitely their equal. Imagine my delight also to find another author in this standing and that he has many more books to read.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 November 2020
I had forgotten how much I enjoyed stories set in the past, especially in Saxon times. I have loved writers such as Cornwell, Bernard Knight, Ellis Peters, Tremayne and many more and, Broughton is most definitely their equal. Imagine my delight also to find another author in this standing and that he has many more books to read.
Whispering Stories Book Blog 5.0 out of 5 stars The storyline is very interesting and it held my attention throughout
Heaven In A Wild Flower is a delightful historical read, starting in 687AD with a young Aella a leatherworker, and his Friend Edwy being called up for war by Lord Berhtred to fight the Picts.
The story takes us through Aella’s life from him, meeting king Ecgfrith, being Baptised, getting to know Bishop Cuthbert and the Monks, and all the opportunities that followed.
This is a great historic story with excellent use of language and all the characters described in great depth, making it easy to visualise them.
Heaven In A Wild Flower is a delightful historical read, starting in 687AD with a young Aella a leatherworker, and his Friend Edwy being called up for war by Lord Berhtred to fight the Picts.
The story takes us through Aella’s life from him, meeting king Ecgfrith, being Baptised, getting to know Bishop Cuthbert and the Monks, and all the opportunities that followed.
This is a great historic story with excellent use of language and all the characters described in great depth, making it easy to visualise them.
Sashadoo 5.0 out of 5 stars A superlative tale
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 27 November 2020
I'm a lover of good historical fiction and this book definitely falls into that category. John Broughton's tale of Aella, a young man fron a small Northumbrian village who goes on to become the biographer of Saint Cuthbert is a captivating read.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 27 November 2020
I'm a lover of good historical fiction and this book definitely falls into that category. John Broughton's tale of Aella, a young man fron a small Northumbrian village who goes on to become the biographer of Saint Cuthbert is a captivating read.
HEAVEN IN A WILD FLOWER
Review #1: Review by Emily-Jane Hills Orford
Reviewed By:
Emily-Jane Hills Orford
Review Rating:
5 Stars - Congratulations on your 5-star review
Reviewed By Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers’ Favorite
Life in seventh-century Northumbria was a challenge. Boys were brought up to take over their father’s trade and then expected to carry on the family business. But, when the king demands all men and boys respond to his call to arms and fight a war in a far-off land, all trades are set aside in favor of ensuing battles. No one dares defy the king. That is Aella's dilemma. Learning his father’s trade as a leatherworker, Aella expects to continue the family business and take care of his mother and ailing father. But the king has called him to arms, and he and his best friend must leave behind family and livelihood to fight a battle not of their making. Aella’s talent and insight in the art of leatherworking, however, leads him beyond the angst of bloody battles and he becomes a much sought-after artist, particularly by the monks of Lindisfarne who commission him to make the cover for the Gospel of St. John as a gift to Bishop Cuthbert, one of Aella’s newest friends. This attracts the king’s attention and Aella’s prowess on the battlefield is overshadowed by his artistic talent.
John Broughton’s historical fiction novel, Heaven in a Wild Flower: Tale Of An Anglo-Saxon Leatherworker on Lindisfarne, is an engaging read that delves into the unsettled and difficult times of the seventh century. Told in the first-person narrative, from Aella’s point of view, the plot begins in the leatherworking shop and follows Aella’s call to arms, his introduction to the monks of Lindisfarne, and his rise in notoriety as a finely skilled leatherworker. The author is well versed in his knowledge of this era. I particularly marveled at his manner of introducing leatherworking techniques as young Aella instructs his fellow comrades at arms on the different processes which cause the odor that besieges their nostrils as they enter a small village. The dialogue and descriptive narrative are well constructed as the author not only educates the reader on this era in history, but he entertains them as well. A fascinating read.
Reviewed By:
Emily-Jane Hills Orford
Review Rating:
5 Stars - Congratulations on your 5-star review
Reviewed By Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers’ Favorite
Life in seventh-century Northumbria was a challenge. Boys were brought up to take over their father’s trade and then expected to carry on the family business. But, when the king demands all men and boys respond to his call to arms and fight a war in a far-off land, all trades are set aside in favor of ensuing battles. No one dares defy the king. That is Aella's dilemma. Learning his father’s trade as a leatherworker, Aella expects to continue the family business and take care of his mother and ailing father. But the king has called him to arms, and he and his best friend must leave behind family and livelihood to fight a battle not of their making. Aella’s talent and insight in the art of leatherworking, however, leads him beyond the angst of bloody battles and he becomes a much sought-after artist, particularly by the monks of Lindisfarne who commission him to make the cover for the Gospel of St. John as a gift to Bishop Cuthbert, one of Aella’s newest friends. This attracts the king’s attention and Aella’s prowess on the battlefield is overshadowed by his artistic talent.
John Broughton’s historical fiction novel, Heaven in a Wild Flower: Tale Of An Anglo-Saxon Leatherworker on Lindisfarne, is an engaging read that delves into the unsettled and difficult times of the seventh century. Told in the first-person narrative, from Aella’s point of view, the plot begins in the leatherworking shop and follows Aella’s call to arms, his introduction to the monks of Lindisfarne, and his rise in notoriety as a finely skilled leatherworker. The author is well versed in his knowledge of this era. I particularly marveled at his manner of introducing leatherworking techniques as young Aella instructs his fellow comrades at arms on the different processes which cause the odor that besieges their nostrils as they enter a small village. The dialogue and descriptive narrative are well constructed as the author not only educates the reader on this era in history, but he entertains them as well. A fascinating read.
IN THE NAME OF THE MOTHER
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Broughton is Masterful
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 19 February 2021
Verified Purchase
This is the fifth book I have read by this author and he has never disappointed and I freely admit I buy the books without too much research and just start reading. I loved this book and it was not until the end I found out that it was book 2 of a series, Wyrd of The Wolf. I had to immediately remedy the mistake and bought book 1.This fact did not detract from my pleasure in reading this novel.
This story hinges on the return from pilgrimage of a King’s widow, pregnant with the heir to the throne, now usurped. It is about biding time and hiding the babe away and where better than with another King. What follows is a story of intrigue, growing affection and, as the mother becomes an infirmarian, so we also see how ancient healing knowledge is championed by the cloistered healers. It becomes a cleverly crafted tale of ambition, tempered by education and a mother’s love.
Broughton is masterful in the way he is able to engage complex histories of warring Kings, scheming Aethlings and Religieux, with clever use of invented characters exploiting flawed ambition, so the machinations and the aspirations of the time are laid out in a fascinating story.
It is the ease of a consummate writer that enables the storyline to drive the history and reveal the times; the worries, the fears and, the loves. Peace is sought but ambition weakens a powerbase, in Kingdoms and in Religious Houses. And the People? They just want to see strength of Leadership as this enables them to live a life, however meagre, secure and as safe as can be.
I recommend these books as an equal to great writers such as Cornwell with an additional qualification, Broughton brings, in my opinion, a measure of empathy, hard to do, but it works for me as the books and the turbulent times come alive. 5 Stars.
The Horse Thegn
Amazon Customer 5.0 out of 5 stars Another scintillating tale of Saxon Britain
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 24 January 2021
This is the third novel I have read by Broughton and I just cannot get enough of them. They are well researched with historic events portrayed through fictional characters that leap from the page in authenticity.
This is the second book in the Saint Cuthbert trilogy. I loved book one and I immediately bought the sequel, expecting to follow the characters. However this book is set two generations on and this surprised me at first, but, this is a trilogy about the influence if St Cuthbert and not the characters that enabled Cuthbert in his life. Having said that, there are references and familial ties to the original protagonists and I think, upon reflection, I enjoyed this more.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 24 January 2021
This is the third novel I have read by Broughton and I just cannot get enough of them. They are well researched with historic events portrayed through fictional characters that leap from the page in authenticity.
This is the second book in the Saint Cuthbert trilogy. I loved book one and I immediately bought the sequel, expecting to follow the characters. However this book is set two generations on and this surprised me at first, but, this is a trilogy about the influence if St Cuthbert and not the characters that enabled Cuthbert in his life. Having said that, there are references and familial ties to the original protagonists and I think, upon reflection, I enjoyed this more.
Réal Laplaine
5.0 out of 5 stars This book qualifies as classical historical fiction - a great read.
The Horse-Thegn: Tale of an Anglo-Saxon Horse-thegn in Northumbria, by John Broughton, is the 2nd book in the Saint Cuthbert Trilogy, an historical fiction based in Britain during the 800's. Having read the first book in the series, entitled, Heaven In A Wild Flower, which was an excellent read, one that I found on a par with The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, the 2nd book did not disappoint. The Horse-Thegn follows the life and adventures of Cynn, the Royal Horse-Thegn; "thegn" being an old Anglican word for a servant or nobleman. It is a visceral story, showing the brutality of Viking raiding parties invaded the British aisles, and the battles, both small and large that ensued as mostly Christian Anglican folk, under the banner of such warriors as Cynn, defended their villages and borders.
5.0 out of 5 stars This book qualifies as classical historical fiction - a great read.
The Horse-Thegn: Tale of an Anglo-Saxon Horse-thegn in Northumbria, by John Broughton, is the 2nd book in the Saint Cuthbert Trilogy, an historical fiction based in Britain during the 800's. Having read the first book in the series, entitled, Heaven In A Wild Flower, which was an excellent read, one that I found on a par with The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, the 2nd book did not disappoint. The Horse-Thegn follows the life and adventures of Cynn, the Royal Horse-Thegn; "thegn" being an old Anglican word for a servant or nobleman. It is a visceral story, showing the brutality of Viking raiding parties invaded the British aisles, and the battles, both small and large that ensued as mostly Christian Anglican folk, under the banner of such warriors as Cynn, defended their villages and borders.
Sashadoo 5.0 out of 5 stars A thundering great sequel to Book 1
Having read the first book in John Broughton's trilogy, Heaven in a Wildflower, I was excited and looking forward to reading this second part, and I wasn't disappointed.
I admit I had to look up the meaning of the word Thegn which I found to be an Old-English word, meaning a retainer, or servant, usually to a ruler or leader. Having found that out, everything in the book then made perfect sense.
Set some years after the events told in the first book, it relates a story that revolves around the descendants of the characters in book one.
Cynn, is the Horse-Thegn to the king of Northumbria, and, though most of the Norsemen who have settled in the country, forsaking the sword for the plough, there are still some who would rather use their Viking origins to spread death and destruction.
Having read the first book in John Broughton's trilogy, Heaven in a Wildflower, I was excited and looking forward to reading this second part, and I wasn't disappointed.
I admit I had to look up the meaning of the word Thegn which I found to be an Old-English word, meaning a retainer, or servant, usually to a ruler or leader. Having found that out, everything in the book then made perfect sense.
Set some years after the events told in the first book, it relates a story that revolves around the descendants of the characters in book one.
Cynn, is the Horse-Thegn to the king of Northumbria, and, though most of the Norsemen who have settled in the country, forsaking the sword for the plough, there are still some who would rather use their Viking origins to spread death and destruction.
The Master of the Chevron
5.0 out of 5 stars War, Love, Art and Compassion, and 3 centuries of Devotion. A masterful trilogy.
I have found this trilogy most compelling and a tribute to the art and artisans of this turbulent time over 3 centuries.
In Book 1, Heaven in a Wild Flower, I found a blend of warring, as you might expect of a Saxon chronicle, but yet a serene influence of a simple craftsman prevails to enable us to see that oft neglected side of Saxon life in art, craftsmanship and religious devotion. And most importantly, the creation of a friendship with a simple religieux and the eventual devotion of one family stemming from a leather worker, Aella.
In Book 2, The Horse Thegn, we see some generations later, descendants of Aella settling and creating a homestead that grows to a manor. We can see the cruelty of life, strife with Viking raids needing to be violently put down and war band eventually paving the way for the ‘civilising’ of settlements, mixed races, Viking and Saxon, and the driving influence? The devotion and miracles of Saint Cuthbert.
In Book 3, The Master of the Chevron, life has moved on following the Norman Conquest. In Normandy, another descendant of Aella, as a second son and not able to inherit the family seat, Kenrick follows his passion as a stone mason eventually being rewarded the title Master Mason. Then tasked by the King to build monasteries in the north of England, his home, but his life’s ambition is achieved when appointed to build Durham Cathedral.
The simple life he seeks is disrupted by rebellion and the ruthless putting down of the Northumbria rebels by William, laying waste to the land. Yet, in all of this, the art is the driving force in this novel and I found it heartrending in places, yet also inspirational. As with all 4 of the books I have read by this author, the story is told through characters and not as a historical narrative, much the same way as Bernard Cornwell. That said, we move through history and with ease, we understand the consequences of politics and those abusing power, but not all and learn to appreciate the goodness that prevails.
I loved the way Broughton talked of the difficulty in funding, of Kenrick having to fight for getting what he wants in his designs and, the love of the art and architecture and the saint, transcends all. I loved it and it was a fitting end to this trilogy, the Saint translated to the cathedral and this line of Aella ended in a peaceful triumph.
I have found this trilogy most compelling and a tribute to the art and artisans of this turbulent time over 3 centuries.
In Book 1, Heaven in a Wild Flower, I found a blend of warring, as you might expect of a Saxon chronicle, but yet a serene influence of a simple craftsman prevails to enable us to see that oft neglected side of Saxon life in art, craftsmanship and religious devotion. And most importantly, the creation of a friendship with a simple religieux and the eventual devotion of one family stemming from a leather worker, Aella.
In Book 2, The Horse Thegn, we see some generations later, descendants of Aella settling and creating a homestead that grows to a manor. We can see the cruelty of life, strife with Viking raids needing to be violently put down and war band eventually paving the way for the ‘civilising’ of settlements, mixed races, Viking and Saxon, and the driving influence? The devotion and miracles of Saint Cuthbert.
In Book 3, The Master of the Chevron, life has moved on following the Norman Conquest. In Normandy, another descendant of Aella, as a second son and not able to inherit the family seat, Kenrick follows his passion as a stone mason eventually being rewarded the title Master Mason. Then tasked by the King to build monasteries in the north of England, his home, but his life’s ambition is achieved when appointed to build Durham Cathedral.
The simple life he seeks is disrupted by rebellion and the ruthless putting down of the Northumbria rebels by William, laying waste to the land. Yet, in all of this, the art is the driving force in this novel and I found it heartrending in places, yet also inspirational. As with all 4 of the books I have read by this author, the story is told through characters and not as a historical narrative, much the same way as Bernard Cornwell. That said, we move through history and with ease, we understand the consequences of politics and those abusing power, but not all and learn to appreciate the goodness that prevails.
I loved the way Broughton talked of the difficulty in funding, of Kenrick having to fight for getting what he wants in his designs and, the love of the art and architecture and the saint, transcends all. I loved it and it was a fitting end to this trilogy, the Saint translated to the cathedral and this line of Aella ended in a peaceful triumph.
5.0 out of 5 stars Creation in the midst of turbulent times
Having read the first two books in John Broughton's trilogy, I looked forward to reading the final episode, based on St. Cuthbert and those who followed his teachings and who revered the Saint long after his death.
In the 11th century, England was a land of various kingdoms, with many monarchs vying for overall control of a divided land. The church, a powerful body in those days, was equally divided with various bishops courting favour with whichever monarch they thought would support their individual needs and requirements.
The author has brought his prodigious talent to bear by mixing historical fact and a fictional tale that centres around two main characters, Kenrick, the, Master of the Chevron ' who becomes the master builder tasked with the creation of a new cathedral in Durham, and Thurgot, his friend who rises in rank within the church and becomes his chief supporter and advocate for his work.
The problem was that Durham already had a cathedral but Kenrick was ordered to create a new one incorporating the previous edifice.
Anyone who has travelled by train past the city of Durham is sure to have seen and, been impressed by the sight of the great cathedral which today stands on a hill commanding magnificent views in all directions.
This is the author's fictional account of how the building came into existence. There is plenty of action, from battles between rival factions to the incredible miracles ascribed to Saint Cuthbert himself.
Having read the first two books in John Broughton's trilogy, I looked forward to reading the final episode, based on St. Cuthbert and those who followed his teachings and who revered the Saint long after his death.
In the 11th century, England was a land of various kingdoms, with many monarchs vying for overall control of a divided land. The church, a powerful body in those days, was equally divided with various bishops courting favour with whichever monarch they thought would support their individual needs and requirements.
The author has brought his prodigious talent to bear by mixing historical fact and a fictional tale that centres around two main characters, Kenrick, the, Master of the Chevron ' who becomes the master builder tasked with the creation of a new cathedral in Durham, and Thurgot, his friend who rises in rank within the church and becomes his chief supporter and advocate for his work.
The problem was that Durham already had a cathedral but Kenrick was ordered to create a new one incorporating the previous edifice.
Anyone who has travelled by train past the city of Durham is sure to have seen and, been impressed by the sight of the great cathedral which today stands on a hill commanding magnificent views in all directions.
This is the author's fictional account of how the building came into existence. There is plenty of action, from battles between rival factions to the incredible miracles ascribed to Saint Cuthbert himself.
Réal Laplaine
5.0 out of 5 stars This book qualifies as classical historical fiction - a great read.
The Horse-Thegn: Tale of an Anglo-Saxon Horse-thegn in Northumbria, by John Broughton, is the 2nd book in the Saint Cuthbert Trilogy, an historical fiction based in Britain during the 800's. Having read the first book in the series, entitled, Heaven In A Wild Flower, which was an excellent read, one that I found on a par with The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, the 2nd book did not disappoint. The Horse-Thegn follows the life and adventures of Cynn, the Royal Horse-Thegn; "thegn" being an old Anglican word for a servant or nobleman. It is a visceral story, showing the brutality of Viking raiding parties invaded the British aisles, and the battles, both small and large that ensued as mostly Christian Anglican folk, under the banner of such warriors as Cynn, defended their villages and borders.
5.0 out of 5 stars This book qualifies as classical historical fiction - a great read.
The Horse-Thegn: Tale of an Anglo-Saxon Horse-thegn in Northumbria, by John Broughton, is the 2nd book in the Saint Cuthbert Trilogy, an historical fiction based in Britain during the 800's. Having read the first book in the series, entitled, Heaven In A Wild Flower, which was an excellent read, one that I found on a par with The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, the 2nd book did not disappoint. The Horse-Thegn follows the life and adventures of Cynn, the Royal Horse-Thegn; "thegn" being an old Anglican word for a servant or nobleman. It is a visceral story, showing the brutality of Viking raiding parties invaded the British aisles, and the battles, both small and large that ensued as mostly Christian Anglican folk, under the banner of such warriors as Cynn, defended their villages and borders.
The Rebel Scribes
Sashadoo
VINE VOICE
5.0 out of 5 stars A fighting monk, vikings, an unlikely romance, great read.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 30 May 2021
Verified Purchase
Two young brothers, orphaned after a Viking raid, are raised by monks and trained to become expert scribes, though the elder brother, Aelfwynn nurtures desires of becoming a warrior. Sadly, Aelfwynn finds himself unjustly accused of the murder of a fellow monk, and flees, becoming a wanted man.
His young brother, Folcwin goes on to become a celebrated scribe, but along the way he meets a young nun, Imelda and against all their vows and religious teaching the couple are attracted to each other.
Thus, the scene is set for an intriguing tale, set prior to the first millennium, with the country beset by constant attacks by marauding Vikings, and the various kingdoms within ancient Britain ruled by different kings, some good, others not, making the Vikings task easier as disunity leads to disastrous consequences for the ordinary people of the southern counties.
I don't believe in spoilers, so I won't reveal what happens when Folcwin and Imelda inform the Abbess of their feelings. I will just say that it results in Folcwin following his brother, leaving the monastic life, and having seen the results of the Vikings rape and pillaging of the countryside he takes up arms and the legend of the fighting monk is born.
The second half of the book concentrates on the fight to fling the Vikings back from whence they came with realistic scenes of battles and much bloodletting. This is a great read that pulled me along with the narrative from start to finish.
The author's knowledge of his subject comes across strongly, the research needed to be convincing obviously extensive.
John Broughton is fast becoming one of my favourite historical fiction authors and I can definitely recommend this one to lovers of the genre. 5 big stars from me.
VINE VOICE
5.0 out of 5 stars A fighting monk, vikings, an unlikely romance, great read.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 30 May 2021
Verified Purchase
Two young brothers, orphaned after a Viking raid, are raised by monks and trained to become expert scribes, though the elder brother, Aelfwynn nurtures desires of becoming a warrior. Sadly, Aelfwynn finds himself unjustly accused of the murder of a fellow monk, and flees, becoming a wanted man.
His young brother, Folcwin goes on to become a celebrated scribe, but along the way he meets a young nun, Imelda and against all their vows and religious teaching the couple are attracted to each other.
Thus, the scene is set for an intriguing tale, set prior to the first millennium, with the country beset by constant attacks by marauding Vikings, and the various kingdoms within ancient Britain ruled by different kings, some good, others not, making the Vikings task easier as disunity leads to disastrous consequences for the ordinary people of the southern counties.
I don't believe in spoilers, so I won't reveal what happens when Folcwin and Imelda inform the Abbess of their feelings. I will just say that it results in Folcwin following his brother, leaving the monastic life, and having seen the results of the Vikings rape and pillaging of the countryside he takes up arms and the legend of the fighting monk is born.
The second half of the book concentrates on the fight to fling the Vikings back from whence they came with realistic scenes of battles and much bloodletting. This is a great read that pulled me along with the narrative from start to finish.
The author's knowledge of his subject comes across strongly, the research needed to be convincing obviously extensive.
John Broughton is fast becoming one of my favourite historical fiction authors and I can definitely recommend this one to lovers of the genre. 5 big stars from me.
Reviewed by Teresa Syms for Readers' Favorite
The Rebel Scribes is a fascinating historical novel depicting two Anglo-Saxon monks who are brothers in the time of King Aethelred of England. John Broughton tells the tale of Folcwin and his brother Aelfwynn, orphaned when Viking raiders attack their village and kill their parents. When Aelfwynn is accused of killing a friend and fellow monk, he decides to renounce his vows and leave the monastery and his brother, Folcwin, a most exceptional and gifted scribe. Folcwin’s talent as a scribe increases after creating a psalter for a nobleman’s daughter; she is about to enter a convent but has captured the heart of Folcwin. After hearing of Aelfwynn’s prowess as a battle-hardened warrior, King Aethelred offers him command of the royal fleet. After years of enduring Viking raids, Folcwin decides to earn the heart of his love and trains as a warrior, learning everything Aelfwynn has learned in battle. In time Folcwin rises high in the king’s esteem and earns the feared name “The Warrior Monk.” His love for his family and country is tested many times as he attempts to maintain faith in his king. Will the Viking raiders seize control over the weak King Aethelred? What will happen to the brothers as they travel down completely divergent paths in life?
John Broughton’s The Rebel Scribes is an exceptional book. Broughton’s character development is second to none, as the reader will develop a clear image of the main protagonist, Folcwin, his brother, Aelfwynn, the Lady Imelda, Thorkell the Tall, and King Aethelred. As each character is introduced and their story shared, a clear vision develops. The main plot of the story, along with other sub-plots, is brought to life through excellent story-telling. The reader will not be disappointed in the historical depiction of the Viking raids that plagued England in 990-1013 AD. As well, the reader will gain a solid understanding of the hardships of life during this time in history while feeling the betrayal Folcwin faces during his time as The Warrior Monk. His love for his lady, his brother, and his country is more precious to him than his gift as a scribe. Will King Aethelred finally take action to rid England of the Viking raiders, or will the Viking menace seize control, bringing England into destruction and death or enslavement to its people? I thoroughly enjoyed and was captivated by The Rebel Scribes by John Broughton.
The Rebel Scribes is a fascinating historical novel depicting two Anglo-Saxon monks who are brothers in the time of King Aethelred of England. John Broughton tells the tale of Folcwin and his brother Aelfwynn, orphaned when Viking raiders attack their village and kill their parents. When Aelfwynn is accused of killing a friend and fellow monk, he decides to renounce his vows and leave the monastery and his brother, Folcwin, a most exceptional and gifted scribe. Folcwin’s talent as a scribe increases after creating a psalter for a nobleman’s daughter; she is about to enter a convent but has captured the heart of Folcwin. After hearing of Aelfwynn’s prowess as a battle-hardened warrior, King Aethelred offers him command of the royal fleet. After years of enduring Viking raids, Folcwin decides to earn the heart of his love and trains as a warrior, learning everything Aelfwynn has learned in battle. In time Folcwin rises high in the king’s esteem and earns the feared name “The Warrior Monk.” His love for his family and country is tested many times as he attempts to maintain faith in his king. Will the Viking raiders seize control over the weak King Aethelred? What will happen to the brothers as they travel down completely divergent paths in life?
John Broughton’s The Rebel Scribes is an exceptional book. Broughton’s character development is second to none, as the reader will develop a clear image of the main protagonist, Folcwin, his brother, Aelfwynn, the Lady Imelda, Thorkell the Tall, and King Aethelred. As each character is introduced and their story shared, a clear vision develops. The main plot of the story, along with other sub-plots, is brought to life through excellent story-telling. The reader will not be disappointed in the historical depiction of the Viking raids that plagued England in 990-1013 AD. As well, the reader will gain a solid understanding of the hardships of life during this time in history while feeling the betrayal Folcwin faces during his time as The Warrior Monk. His love for his lady, his brother, and his country is more precious to him than his gift as a scribe. Will King Aethelred finally take action to rid England of the Viking raiders, or will the Viking menace seize control, bringing England into destruction and death or enslavement to its people? I thoroughly enjoyed and was captivated by The Rebel Scribes by John Broughton.
