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Brunanburh #2

Kings of War

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The next bloody and thrilling instalment in MJ Porter's The Brunanburh Series.

Can the King of the Scots and the Dublin Norse triumph against a united England?
AD934

King Athelstan of the English has been successful in uniting the many kingdoms of Britain against one enemy, the Viking raiders.


But men who are kings don’t wish to be ruled.

Constantin, King of the Scots, rebelled against the Imperium and was forcibly brought to bend the knee to Athelstan and England at Cirencester.

His son Ildulb seeks bloody vengeance from Athelstan following the battle at Cait and the death of his son.

Olaf Gothfrithson, king of the Dublin Norse, having asserted his power following his father's death has his sights set on reclaiming Jorvik.


Can the united might of the Scots and the violence of the Dublin Norse, descendants of the infamous Viking raiders, bring King Athelstan and his vision of the united Saxon English to her knees?

An epic story of kingsmanship that will result in the pivotal, bloody Battle of Brunanburh, where only one side can be victorious.

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 12, 2023

115 people are currently reading
50 people want to read

About the author

M.J. Porter

111 books256 followers
I'm an author of historical fiction (Early English (before 1066)/Viking) and now five 20th-century mysteries..

The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles (featuring a young Icel from The Last King series) is now available from Boldwood Books. As is the complete Brunanburh Series and the first two books in the Dark Age Chronicles, my foray to before Saxon England was Saxon England. Enjoy.

The Ninth Century Series (The Last King), are stories of ninth-century England, but not as it's been written before, (featuring an older Icel and some other familiar faces too).

The Erdington Mysteries now has a third book in the series—The Secret Sauce. (Did you know Erdington would have been in Mercia back in the Saxon period? I know, you can't get me away from the place.) The Barrage Body is coming soon.

The Royal Women Who Made England, my first non-fiction book about the royal women of the tenth century, is available now.

I like to write. You've been warned.

Find me at
www.mjporterauthor.com or at www.mjporterauthor.blog where I blog about books and films and sometimes, writing!
https://linktr.ee/MJPorterauthor
https://mjporterauthor.sumupstore.com

You can join my monthly subscriber newsletters and gain access to the restricted page on my blog at the same time.
https://BookHip.com/MGWHLDC (Saxon stories)
https://BookHip.com/THPKCKP (mysteries only)


(I have odd reading tastes - there's no need to notice though!!) I'm also exceedingly anti-social - that you may notice but must accept!

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5 stars
261 (62%)
4 stars
116 (27%)
3 stars
32 (7%)
2 stars
7 (1%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for Trina Dixon.
1,024 reviews49 followers
June 23, 2023
The next installment in King Athelstan series, possible to be read as a standalone but why would you miss the chance to read the first book.
King Constantin of Scotland is still causing problems for King Athelstan, first King of England. This time he joins forces with Olaf, a viking King in Dublin. Their disagreements culminate in in the bloody battle of Brunanburh where many warriors lose their lives.
Despite being historical fiction with lots of characters, many with similar names, I found the book an easy read. Each chapter is told from the point of view from the 4 main characters.
Profile Image for Terry Rudge.
534 reviews62 followers
July 23, 2023
Brilliant!
The first book in this series was a different approach from Porter and felt to me when reading, that it was setting up for something magnificent

Well I was not disappointed!!!
This book had all the action, fighting and battle gore and craziness that I have always loved from Porter.

When it comes to a shield wall battle and the fighting sequence , I am not sure anyone does it better

Excellent book
Profile Image for Kelsey Rhodes.
2,000 reviews33 followers
April 19, 2025
3.5/5 stars! This is the second entry in the Brunanburh series by M.J. Porter. It cannot be read as a standalone. This is a well-written historical fiction. The fighting and battles were captivating. It was the background pieces (armor descriptions, character POVs, etc) that let down the story and led to it feeling. I think editing and slimming down this book could help a lot.
Profile Image for Amy McElroy.
Author 4 books23 followers
January 1, 2024
This is only the second in the Brunanburh series by MJ, and I already love the series.

If you've read my reviews, you'll be aware I am a huge fan of the Coelwulf series, and this is turning out just as exciting.

MJ has a way of describing the surroundings and the battles in a way that makes you feel like you are hovering ahead watching it happen. No matter how many battles I read in books by MJ, no two are ever the same, and that's brilliant.

There is a lot of bloodshed in this, but there are still humour and characters you will either love or hate. I even liked some of those who are technically the enemy of Athelstan.

I read this in two sittings as I couldn't put it down. I just had to know what was going to happen. MJ had built the tension up all the way through until the final battle, and I almost held my breath.

I dislike spoilers so you won't find any here but I will say if you haven't read the first one but like the sound of this, you don't have to have read it though I would recommend reading both purely because they're so good.

Thank you again, MJ, for another thrilling adventure into Saxon England!
Profile Image for Cathie.
Author 13 books154 followers
July 31, 2023
Having read and reviewed the fantastic King of Kings previously, I was eagerly awaiting this instalment in the thrilling historical fiction series surrounding the battle of Brunanburgh. And what another exciting ride through early medieval times in the British Isles it was!

It begins with the humiliation of King Constantine of the Scots, at Cirencester in England, in front of the King of the English, Æthelstan, and his court. This situation arose following the disastrous defeat of the Scots at Cait, in the far north, by Æthelstan's army previously – where King of Kings ended.

So we have a deeply frustrated Scots king, a triumphant English king, but also other intriguing players in their households, such as Æthelstan's stepmother, dowager Queen Eadgifu, the mother of Edmund, his young half-brother.

Leading on from this embarrassment, we find Constantine back in Scotland, plotting. His son, Ildulb, has his own plan, seeking brutal revenge for the murder of his own son in battle. When Ildulb plots an allegiance with the Dublin Norse against the English, a plan begins to form. But the Dublin Norse under Olaf have their own problems on their doorstep – their distant kin in Limerick are nipping at his heel, and then there are the Irish Ui Neill, who constantly cut away at the invaders. Olaf still wants to retake Jorvik, but with these distractions, and now the Scots come begging, he must set his priorities.

And as with everything in those ’dark’ days, nothing is ever as it seems. There is a distinct lack of trust between fathers and sons, across Scotland and Wales, and between brothers, in Dublin. This allows for a continuing and growing sense of unease, which the author brings across very well in each character’s musings.

As in King of Kings, the narrative is split, with changing points of view of several historical characters. It's all clearly separated by chapters, to avoid any confusion, and this kind of narrative really shows the scheming and plotting of the various protagonists and antagonists (but who is which??).

Whilst we see less actual action, except perhaps during the battle of Brunanburgh, which is described in great detail, we instead follow the leaders’ thoughts, fears, jealousies, and (on very rare occasions) joys. This deep POV allows a great insight into the mind of these 10th-century warriors and their families. Some of the attitudes will send a chill down your spine, especially as regards the inevitable loss of many followers in battle, which is something these leaders take for granted, to stay in – or even extend – power.

Politics, machinations, lies and plots are revealed as they unfold, and it makes for utterly gripping reading.

So when the battle at Brunanburgh is over, with thousands of men lying dead, we have a great affirmation of power, but as always, a sense of uncertainty remains. Can these rulers truly trust one another? Will the warring factions cease their antagonisms? Will peace prevail on the isles, and for how long?

Kings of War is an absorbing tale of political intrigues, personal ambitions, and ruthless action. Another highly entertaining read from MJ Porter!

Note: I received an ebook copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Jaime.
1,801 reviews310 followers
April 23, 2024
“Kings of War" by MJ Porter is an epic masterpiece that takes readers on a thrilling journey through Medieval England. Porter brings the reader back in time to a world of intrigue, betrayal, and courage - effectively making history come to life! I was never someone who enjoyed history during school - this has drastically changed since I found this talented author. Porter's skillful storytelling effortlessly immerses readers in a richly detailed world filled with complex characters and high-stakes political intrigue. From the first page to the last, the tension never wanes, keeping me on the edge of my seat as I eagerly turned each page.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its meticulously crafted characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. Porter breathes life into every character, from the noble kings and queens to the cunning advisors and fearless warriors. The relationships between the characters are beautifully nuanced, adding depth and complexity to the story. Additionally, Porter's prose is masterful, with vivid descriptions that bring the world of "Kings of War" to life in stunning detail. Whether it's a sprawling battlefield or a lavish royal court, every setting is rendered with precision and clarity, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.

So if you haven’t read any of Porter’s books - this is the perfect book to jump into and enjoy!

5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book Boldwood Books Publishing via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are usually cross-posted to social media, goodreads, bookbub, and blog. 🦄


Profile Image for Julie.
2,654 reviews43 followers
August 15, 2023
M J Porter brilliantly blends power, ambition and vengeance in another superb historical novel: Kings of War.

King Athelsan has successfully managed to unite all the kingdoms of Britain against one common enemy: the Viking raiders. However, jubilation is the last thing the kings of Scotland and Ireland are feeling. Being ruled by somebody else is anathema to them and they are not going to sit idly by while Athelsan calls the shots. As the son of the King of Scots, Idulb has revenge on his mind after the death of his son and nobody – least of all the King of the English – is going to come between him and his insatiable thirst for vengeance.

Meanwhile, the King of Dublin, Olaf Gothfrithson, has got his sights set on reclaiming Jorvik – and woe betide whoever stands in his way. Joining forces with the united might of the Scots might help Olaf defeat Athelsan for good – but can he trust Idulb? Or is Olaf about to be betrayed in the worst possible way?

With everything to lose and the stakes having never been higher, Athelsan’s vision for a united Britain is in jeopardy like never before. Can he stay strong and ensure that nobody threatens his objectives? Or is the King of the English about to lose everything?

Bernard Cornwell and Game of Thrones fans will love M J Porter’s Kings of War. Action-packed, exciting, suspenseful and brilliantly atmospheric, Kings of War is a captivating historical epic that will hold readers in thrall from beginning to end. A must-read for historical fiction aficionados, Kings of War is another surefire hit for M J Porter.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Vanessa.
3,193 reviews26 followers
January 12, 2024
Kings of War by M.J. Porter is the second book in the new Chronicles of the English/Brunanburh and WoW What a fantastic magical this book this was! Just like the first one which I just adored from the very first page till the very last.

Can the King of the Scots and the Dublin Norse triumph against a united England?
AD934

King Athelstan of the English has been successful in uniting the many kingdoms of Britain against one enemy, the Viking raiders.

But men who are kings don’t wish to be ruled.

Constantin, King of the Scots, rebelled against the Imperium and was forcibly brought to bend the knee to Athelstan and England at Cirencester.

His son Ildulb seeks bloody vengeance from Athelstan following the battle at Cait and the death of his son.

Olaf Gothfrithson, king of the Dublin Norse, having asserted his power following his father's death has his sights set on reclaiming Jorvik.

Can the united might of the Scots and the violence of the Dublin Norse, descendants of the infamous Viking raiders, bring King Athelstan and his vision of the united Saxon English to her knees?

An interesting and powerful read and I really enjoyed it, especially as it was beautifully written. This series of books are books that I would read again in a few years.
Profile Image for Annarella.
14.2k reviews165 followers
July 13, 2023
I grew up in a Latin country and this means my knowledge of Anglosaxon reigns, Æthelstan and the political situation of the British Isles around X century were near zero. I think that books like this one are a fascinating way to learn about history and have fun at the same time.
There’s a lot going on in this book, there’s a lot of characters and events. I thanks for the summary of characters at the beginning of the book as it helped me to navigate the relationships and who’s who.
The story is fast paced, action packed and it kept me turning pages. I loved how the author was able to develop characters that are alive and well rounded.
The historical background is well researched and I appreciated the attention to the details.
MJ Porter’s historical novel never disappoints and this one is highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books for this arc, all opinions are mine
Profile Image for Leanne.
2,157 reviews43 followers
July 12, 2023
Constantin King of the Scots is still causing trouble for King of England and it results in a blood thirsty battle of Brunanburh. I loved each and every chapter told from the different points of view making it engaging and keeping me on my toes. I am now a huge fan of this genre and I particularly enjoyed the battles which resulted in injuries and deaths. I had never heard of Brunanburh but I am now eager to do some research and learn more. The characters in this are conniving and selfish which makes the story more intriguing. I have revelled in this series and I am hoping that there will be a third book. This book definitely doesn't disappoint.
71 reviews1 follower
March 20, 2024
Came really close to giving up with this as the writing is awful. The English and Welsh speak and are calm. The Scots, Norse and Irish all snarl, growl and endlessly talk of plotting revenge. Come on.

Whereas I can understand multiple POVs during a major battle, having 6 characters describe what they’re wearing before it starts is just tedious and completely unnecessary. The first and second book could’ve easily been condensed into one. I have no interest in other books from this author which is a shame as not that many writers cover the Anglo-Saxon period (or ones that I’ve found yet anyway), but I can’t cope with any more of this author’s writing.
477 reviews10 followers
July 27, 2023
This is the second book in the Brunanburh series and takes King Athelstan to a battle he never wanted. King Constantine of the Scots wants war and no longer respect the treaty he signed bringing peace to the land.

Action packed, well written novel that brings Saxon Britain to life. Peace has been hard won but when threatened the King must respond and prevail. Great characters and as you expect with war lots of deaths. Enjoy.
Profile Image for James Gault.
Author 15 books
November 11, 2023
A rich tapestry

A great read. This prolific author packs a host of personalities into a storyline replete with action aplenty without any avoidance of the occasional blood and gore. In that is embedded a rich body of recorded fact - of which she is something of an acknowledged expert - all embellished with imaginative and descriptive prose. Awesome stuff!
341 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2023
Another brilliant tale

Another brilliant tale of old England. M.J.Porter tells an intreguing tale of kings and warriors, when age old rivalries are temporarily settled. I presume that the tale of old England will continue.I hope so
15 reviews
October 24, 2023
Great book- excellent in fact!

Part 2 of Kings of War even better than the first!
Learned much about the war in England against what almost seemed like overwhelming odds. I hope there’s a book 3 to follow Edmund!
Thank you.
40 reviews
Read
February 9, 2025
Building to a Blockbuster Finish

Nicely written this book starts slow but accelerates to a crescendo of a battle as a finale. Well crafted battle scenes stole the show at the end of this book. Now on to the next book.
115 reviews3 followers
July 22, 2024
Fascinating.

I am loving this series. Imho, Athelstan should be remembered as one of the greatest kings of England. This series brings history to life.
1,386 reviews2 followers
October 16, 2025
i think Bernard Cornwell may had ruined Viking England stories for me... except his that is. I keep reading these books expecting to get a Bernard Cornwell style of book and i do not
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews

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