The design and UX isn't done, Rob and Abbie, okkurrrr! 😌
thebookwormsfeast's review
5.0
Ok, so I have to preface this with I didn't realise it was part of a series (the fourth in fact), and I just dived right on in. But when I found out, I looked around the reviews and questions - and others said although old events are referenced, and you miss a lot of character building, this book does still work alone. So I ploughed on.
And I loved it!
It's been such a long time since I've read a book like this - as I've mainly been steeped in full-on fantasy. I adored having actual events and history interwoven with the fictional elements of Sir Thomas Hookton and the quest to find La Malice. Although missing some of the backstory (or near all the backstory), I still fell in love with the characters over this book.
The power and might of the English and Welsh longbowmen of the medieval era have always fascinated me - so "observing" the events leading up to and including the Battle of Poitiers from a band of them was amazing for me. There was a quote on the back of the book from George R. R. Martin that Cornwell writes some of the best battle scenes he's ever read, and I totally agree. It felt like we effortlessly and wholly moved around the battle - picking up on the main details (from what we know about what actually happened) without any feeling of choppiness.
This is my first Bernard Cornwall novel, and I certainly will be picking up more!
And I loved it!
It's been such a long time since I've read a book like this - as I've mainly been steeped in full-on fantasy. I adored having actual events and history interwoven with the fictional elements of Sir Thomas Hookton and the quest to find La Malice. Although missing some of the backstory (or near all the backstory), I still fell in love with the characters over this book.
The power and might of the English and Welsh longbowmen of the medieval era have always fascinated me - so "observing" the events leading up to and including the Battle of Poitiers from a band of them was amazing for me. There was a quote on the back of the book from George R. R. Martin that Cornwell writes some of the best battle scenes he's ever read, and I totally agree. It felt like we effortlessly and wholly moved around the battle - picking up on the main details (from what we know about what actually happened) without any feeling of choppiness.
This is my first Bernard Cornwall novel, and I certainly will be picking up more!
glitterbomb47's review against another edition
4.0
Very violent. But man alive can Cornwell write historical fiction. This is medieval fiction done correctly - are you listening Ken Follett???
hollyberry_reads's review against another edition
challenging
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
fastasashark's review against another edition
5.0
Rating just based on memory but I remember loving the entire Grail Quest.
donnakaye64's review against another edition
5.0
I enjoyed this book. I always like seeing how authors fill in the "hole" of history when they write Historical Fiction.
kanesuke's review against another edition
adventurous
informative
medium-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
3.5
retroreader17's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
l0rdtim865's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
informative
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
I have enjoyed this book. I have finished it in 3 days and I am not a fast reader! The battle scenes are amazing and give that real sense of medieval warfare.
The only reason I haven't given this a 5* is because at times the story moves so fast you lose sight of some of the supporting characters who suddenly have huge moments in the story that didn't really have a build up to.
The author has yet again managed to convey the drama within a medieval setting without the feeling of overreaching.
Whilst you could read this book as a standalone it is best enjoy after reading the previous books in the series.
The only reason I haven't given this a 5* is because at times the story moves so fast you lose sight of some of the supporting characters who suddenly have huge moments in the story that didn't really have a build up to.
The author has yet again managed to convey the drama within a medieval setting without the feeling of overreaching.
Whilst you could read this book as a standalone it is best enjoy after reading the previous books in the series.
prab's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
After finishing Heretic, I did not feel like continuing this story as I did not enjoy the last book. However, this book keep calling out to me to give Bernard Cornwell another try. And this book blew my mind (I finish this book in 2 days.)
From the opening pages, Cornwell's skill as a storyteller shines through. He seamlessly transports readers to the heart of the 14th century, capturing the essence of the period with meticulous attention to historical detail. His extensive research is evident in the authenticity of the setting, language, and political dynamics, offering a rich and immersive experience for the reader.
One of Cornwell's greatest strengths lies in his ability to create compelling and multifaceted characters. In "1356," he introduces a diverse cast, each with their own motivations and flaws. From the valiant Sir Thomas of Hookton to the enigmatic Jeanette, the characters come to life on the pages, driving the narrative forward with their actions and decisions. Cornwell's portrayal of their struggles, ambitions, and alliances adds depth and complexity to the story, making it more than just a historical account.
The battle scenes in "1356" are nothing short of breathtaking. Cornwell masterfully captures the chaos, violence, and sheer brutality of medieval warfare. Whether it is a skirmish between a small band of knights or the epic clash of armies, the author's vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail paint a vivid picture that transports readers to the heart of the conflict. The strategic maneuvers, the clash of weapons, and the visceral intensity of the battles are brought to life with a level of authenticity that is unparalleled.
Beyond the captivating plot and well-drawn characters, "1356" also delves into deeper themes. Cornwell explores the intricacies of loyalty, honor, and the complexities of war, shedding light on the moral dilemmas faced by those embroiled in conflict. Through his nuanced exploration of the human psyche, the author invites readers to reflect on the costs and consequences of war and the nature of heroism.
Verdict: 4.75/5
From the opening pages, Cornwell's skill as a storyteller shines through. He seamlessly transports readers to the heart of the 14th century, capturing the essence of the period with meticulous attention to historical detail. His extensive research is evident in the authenticity of the setting, language, and political dynamics, offering a rich and immersive experience for the reader.
One of Cornwell's greatest strengths lies in his ability to create compelling and multifaceted characters. In "1356," he introduces a diverse cast, each with their own motivations and flaws. From the valiant Sir Thomas of Hookton to the enigmatic Jeanette, the characters come to life on the pages, driving the narrative forward with their actions and decisions. Cornwell's portrayal of their struggles, ambitions, and alliances adds depth and complexity to the story, making it more than just a historical account.
The battle scenes in "1356" are nothing short of breathtaking. Cornwell masterfully captures the chaos, violence, and sheer brutality of medieval warfare. Whether it is a skirmish between a small band of knights or the epic clash of armies, the author's vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail paint a vivid picture that transports readers to the heart of the conflict. The strategic maneuvers, the clash of weapons, and the visceral intensity of the battles are brought to life with a level of authenticity that is unparalleled.
Beyond the captivating plot and well-drawn characters, "1356" also delves into deeper themes. Cornwell explores the intricacies of loyalty, honor, and the complexities of war, shedding light on the moral dilemmas faced by those embroiled in conflict. Through his nuanced exploration of the human psyche, the author invites readers to reflect on the costs and consequences of war and the nature of heroism.
Verdict: 4.75/5
usbsticky's review against another edition
5.0
The last of the Grail Quest tetralogy, though I'm not sure why this book is sometimes said to be a stand alone book. I would guess that it's an add on to the trilogy of the Grail Quest and written later.
Spoilers:
Especially since this isn't a grail quest, it's a sword quest. The big historical event in this book is the Battle of Poitiers. To start from the beginning, this is an English archer book set in the 100 Years War.
The hero is Thomas Hookton, who is now Sir Thomas Hookton, who has risen (in the previous 3 books) to be a leader of archers and men at arms in English holdings in France. The French are looking for a legendary sword which will help them defeat the English. The English are trying to bring the French to battle and keep their holdings and lands in France.
I like the book as a historical action book with a lot of action and history. Cornwell does a great job of making the characters and historical setting interesting. If you are interested in the 100 Years War and a boots on the ground viewpoint of it I would highly recommend this series.
Spoilers:
Especially since this isn't a grail quest, it's a sword quest. The big historical event in this book is the Battle of Poitiers. To start from the beginning, this is an English archer book set in the 100 Years War.
The hero is Thomas Hookton, who is now Sir Thomas Hookton, who has risen (in the previous 3 books) to be a leader of archers and men at arms in English holdings in France. The French are looking for a legendary sword which will help them defeat the English. The English are trying to bring the French to battle and keep their holdings and lands in France.
I like the book as a historical action book with a lot of action and history. Cornwell does a great job of making the characters and historical setting interesting. If you are interested in the 100 Years War and a boots on the ground viewpoint of it I would highly recommend this series.