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King Arthur #2
Warrior of the West
Twelve long, blood-soaked years, have passed since Artor fulfilled his destiny and was crowned the High King of the Britons. Against all odds, Artor has united Celtic Britain and with a last great campaign, has banished the Saxon scourge. The legend of Camlann has begun. But even as Artor's kingdom is at its zenith, even as he has succeeded in conquering all external threats to his rule, his kingdom is being undermined from within.
For Artor has chosen Wenhaver (Guenevere) as a second wife. Queen of the Britons, Wenhaver will always love what she cannot have and have what she cannot love, and her bitterness threatens to bring down all those around her. Not only is Artor betrayed by the one person he should be able to trust, he has also learned of appalling perversion at the heart of his kingdom. He must make a terrible choice. Does he commit a deed that leaves him open to comparison with the despotic Uther Pendragon, or does he let evil go unchecked? The burden of leadership, of power, now rests solely - and heavily - on Artor's shoulders for Myrddion Merlinus, master tactician, guiding light for so many years, has left Artor to his fate. Could all that Artor has fought for, the destiny of Britain, be lost? Will Britain be torn apart?
For Artor has chosen Wenhaver (Guenevere) as a second wife. Queen of the Britons, Wenhaver will always love what she cannot have and have what she cannot love, and her bitterness threatens to bring down all those around her. Not only is Artor betrayed by the one person he should be able to trust, he has also learned of appalling perversion at the heart of his kingdom. He must make a terrible choice. Does he commit a deed that leaves him open to comparison with the despotic Uther Pendragon, or does he let evil go unchecked? The burden of leadership, of power, now rests solely - and heavily - on Artor's shoulders for Myrddion Merlinus, master tactician, guiding light for so many years, has left Artor to his fate. Could all that Artor has fought for, the destiny of Britain, be lost? Will Britain be torn apart?
528 pages, Paperback
Published January 7, 2014
48 people are currently reading
997 people want to read
About the author
M.K. Hume
24 books159 followersMarilyn K. Hume is an Australian author, born in 1948, and based in Brisbane, Australia.
Hume graduated as a teacher in 1967, specializing in Art and Ancient History before commencing teaching high school students. While teaching, she studied university courses as an external student in English and Ancient History. Along the way, Hume obtained a BA, an MA, a Master of Literary Studies degree and a Phd in Arthurian Literature.
In 1996, Hume was encouraged to enter an historical romance writing competition conducted by the Random House Publishing Group under the sponsorship of a popular women’s magazine. Hume had no interest in romance writing, but she dashed off a novel based on her family history. The novel won second prize from a massive field of recognised authors - and she won $5,000 for her efforts.
In 2007, Hume retired from the Queensland Education Department, and immediately commenced to write a trilogy based on the life and times of King Arthur of Britain.
Hume’s agent, the Dorie Simmonds Agency in London, brokered a contract with Headline Review to publish the three books in the trilogy. This agreement soon became six books, for Hume soon produced a further trilogy on the life and times of Merlin, which is now a prequel to the Arthurian trilogy.
Her works are now published at six-monthly intervals, and the author maintains a punishing schedule involving eight hours of research and/or writing every day. She doesn’t believe that there is any such thing as ‘writer’s block’, and loves the whole creative process.
Hume intends to write at least 30 novels before ‘she drops off the perch’. She reads voraciously and adores meeting friends, attending rummage sales, making porcelain dolls and painting portraits.
Hume graduated as a teacher in 1967, specializing in Art and Ancient History before commencing teaching high school students. While teaching, she studied university courses as an external student in English and Ancient History. Along the way, Hume obtained a BA, an MA, a Master of Literary Studies degree and a Phd in Arthurian Literature.
In 1996, Hume was encouraged to enter an historical romance writing competition conducted by the Random House Publishing Group under the sponsorship of a popular women’s magazine. Hume had no interest in romance writing, but she dashed off a novel based on her family history. The novel won second prize from a massive field of recognised authors - and she won $5,000 for her efforts.
In 2007, Hume retired from the Queensland Education Department, and immediately commenced to write a trilogy based on the life and times of King Arthur of Britain.
Hume’s agent, the Dorie Simmonds Agency in London, brokered a contract with Headline Review to publish the three books in the trilogy. This agreement soon became six books, for Hume soon produced a further trilogy on the life and times of Merlin, which is now a prequel to the Arthurian trilogy.
Her works are now published at six-monthly intervals, and the author maintains a punishing schedule involving eight hours of research and/or writing every day. She doesn’t believe that there is any such thing as ‘writer’s block’, and loves the whole creative process.
Hume intends to write at least 30 novels before ‘she drops off the perch’. She reads voraciously and adores meeting friends, attending rummage sales, making porcelain dolls and painting portraits.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
August 30, 2019
I loved Dragon's Child and absolutely adored Warrior of the West.
This is perhaps one of the the most gritting realistic of the Arthurian novels and along with Mary Stewart's Merlin series and Kate McKenzie's Guinevere duo and its follow up, my favourite.
It is absorbing , thrilling, heart-wrenching and nail biting. I found it a genuine page turner and often read on beyond the time I had allotted myself to see what happens next
It is divided into two parts the first the continuation of the defensive war of the Celts led by their High King Arthor against the invading Saxon hordes, the most dangerous of whose chieftains id the savage Glamdring
Brutally realistic battle scenes which always have just the right amount of detail to keep you hooked and fascinating cultural depictions, brings the sits, sounds and smells of 5th century Britain to reality.
Riveting side story of the captivity and brutal slavery of the Welsh Bedwyr and his eventual escape.
And the eventual massive victory of Artor on the Saxons who suffer a massive death toll.
The second part of the book is about Artor's marriage to Wenyvar (Guinevere) who in the novel is spoiled, petty, vengeful and cruel.
She even attacks a young servant girl mutilating her face. Nimue is the most fascinating character in the novel, a beautiful ash blond child of the Jute woman who was murdered and raped . Nimue was recued as a baby by the warrior Grufydd, she is both wild and has a gentle soul, highly intelligent and sensually beautiful. Hated with insane jealousy by Wenyvar. Murdionn (Merlin) is a scholar, silver haired and clean shaven and ages slowly, The old soldier Targo Artor's Roman sword tutor being another central characer. And then the sinister witch and Artor's half sister Morgan who has aged into ugliness but as dangerous as ever , with a great talent for soothsaying. Her sister Morgause and Morgause' s husband LOt reconcile with Artor through revenge in war on the Saxons who executed their son Gaherys.
Then other son the vain and impulsive Gawain has a central role in the saga.
Then there is a diabolical serial killer who tortures and slowly murders animals, women and children weaker than himself, the most vile character in the book whose identity I will not reveal but was involved in similar atrocities in Dragon's Child.
Unlike some Arthurian novels this one was riveting and absorbing on every page and I so look forward to reading the third in this series The Bloody Cup.
Merged review:
I loved Dragon's Child and absolutely adored Warrior of the West.
This is perhaps one of the the most gritting realistic of the Arthurian novels and along with Mary Stewart's Merlin series and Kate McKenzie's Guinevere duo and its follow up, my favourite.
It is absorbing , thrilling, heart-wrenching and nail biting. I found it a genuine page turner and often read on beyond the time I had allotted myself to see what happens next
It is divided into two parts the first the continuation of the defensive war of the Celts led by their High King Arthor against the invading Saxon hordes, the most dangerous of whose chieftains id the savage Glamdring
Brutally realistic battle scenes which always have just the right amount of detail to keep you hooked and fascinating cultural depictions, brings the sits, sounds and smells of 5th century Britain to reality.
Riveting side story of the captivity and brutal slavery of the Welsh Bedwyr and his eventual escape.
And the eventual massive victory of Artor on the Saxons who suffer a massive death toll.
The second part of the book is about Artor's marriage to Wenyvar (Guinevere) who in the novel is spoiled, petty, vengeful and cruel.
She even attacks a young servant girl mutilating her face. Nimue is the most fascinating character in the novel, a beautiful ash blond child of the Jute woman who was murdered and raped . Nimue was recued as a baby by the warrior Grufydd, she is both wild and has a gentle soul, highly intelligent and sensually beautiful. Hated with insane jealousy by Wenyvar. Murdionn (Merlin) is a scholar, silver haired and clean shaven and ages slowly, The old soldier Targo Artor's Roman sword tutor being another central characer. And then the sinister witch and Artor's half sister Morgan who has aged into ugliness but as dangerous as ever , with a great talent for soothsaying. Her sister Morgause and Morgause' s husband LOt reconcile with Artor through revenge in war on the Saxons who executed their son Gaherys.
Then other son the vain and impulsive Gawain has a central role in the saga.
Then there is a diabolical serial killer who tortures and slowly murders animals, women and children weaker than himself, the most vile character in the book whose identity I will not reveal but was involved in similar atrocities in Dragon's Child.
Unlike some Arthurian novels this one was riveting and absorbing on every page
This is perhaps one of the the most gritting realistic of the Arthurian novels and along with Mary Stewart's Merlin series and Kate McKenzie's Guinevere duo and its follow up, my favourite.
It is absorbing , thrilling, heart-wrenching and nail biting. I found it a genuine page turner and often read on beyond the time I had allotted myself to see what happens next
It is divided into two parts the first the continuation of the defensive war of the Celts led by their High King Arthor against the invading Saxon hordes, the most dangerous of whose chieftains id the savage Glamdring
Brutally realistic battle scenes which always have just the right amount of detail to keep you hooked and fascinating cultural depictions, brings the sits, sounds and smells of 5th century Britain to reality.
Riveting side story of the captivity and brutal slavery of the Welsh Bedwyr and his eventual escape.
And the eventual massive victory of Artor on the Saxons who suffer a massive death toll.
The second part of the book is about Artor's marriage to Wenyvar (Guinevere) who in the novel is spoiled, petty, vengeful and cruel.
She even attacks a young servant girl mutilating her face. Nimue is the most fascinating character in the novel, a beautiful ash blond child of the Jute woman who was murdered and raped . Nimue was recued as a baby by the warrior Grufydd, she is both wild and has a gentle soul, highly intelligent and sensually beautiful. Hated with insane jealousy by Wenyvar. Murdionn (Merlin) is a scholar, silver haired and clean shaven and ages slowly, The old soldier Targo Artor's Roman sword tutor being another central characer. And then the sinister witch and Artor's half sister Morgan who has aged into ugliness but as dangerous as ever , with a great talent for soothsaying. Her sister Morgause and Morgause' s husband LOt reconcile with Artor through revenge in war on the Saxons who executed their son Gaherys.
Then other son the vain and impulsive Gawain has a central role in the saga.
Then there is a diabolical serial killer who tortures and slowly murders animals, women and children weaker than himself, the most vile character in the book whose identity I will not reveal but was involved in similar atrocities in Dragon's Child.
Unlike some Arthurian novels this one was riveting and absorbing on every page and I so look forward to reading the third in this series The Bloody Cup.
Merged review:
I loved Dragon's Child and absolutely adored Warrior of the West.
This is perhaps one of the the most gritting realistic of the Arthurian novels and along with Mary Stewart's Merlin series and Kate McKenzie's Guinevere duo and its follow up, my favourite.
It is absorbing , thrilling, heart-wrenching and nail biting. I found it a genuine page turner and often read on beyond the time I had allotted myself to see what happens next
It is divided into two parts the first the continuation of the defensive war of the Celts led by their High King Arthor against the invading Saxon hordes, the most dangerous of whose chieftains id the savage Glamdring
Brutally realistic battle scenes which always have just the right amount of detail to keep you hooked and fascinating cultural depictions, brings the sits, sounds and smells of 5th century Britain to reality.
Riveting side story of the captivity and brutal slavery of the Welsh Bedwyr and his eventual escape.
And the eventual massive victory of Artor on the Saxons who suffer a massive death toll.
The second part of the book is about Artor's marriage to Wenyvar (Guinevere) who in the novel is spoiled, petty, vengeful and cruel.
She even attacks a young servant girl mutilating her face. Nimue is the most fascinating character in the novel, a beautiful ash blond child of the Jute woman who was murdered and raped . Nimue was recued as a baby by the warrior Grufydd, she is both wild and has a gentle soul, highly intelligent and sensually beautiful. Hated with insane jealousy by Wenyvar. Murdionn (Merlin) is a scholar, silver haired and clean shaven and ages slowly, The old soldier Targo Artor's Roman sword tutor being another central characer. And then the sinister witch and Artor's half sister Morgan who has aged into ugliness but as dangerous as ever , with a great talent for soothsaying. Her sister Morgause and Morgause' s husband LOt reconcile with Artor through revenge in war on the Saxons who executed their son Gaherys.
Then other son the vain and impulsive Gawain has a central role in the saga.
Then there is a diabolical serial killer who tortures and slowly murders animals, women and children weaker than himself, the most vile character in the book whose identity I will not reveal but was involved in similar atrocities in Dragon's Child.
Unlike some Arthurian novels this one was riveting and absorbing on every page
January 13, 2014
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum http://bibliosanctum.blogspot.com/201...
Of the many re-tellings and interpretations I've read based on the King Arthur mythos, I think M.K. Hume's is probably the most "scholarly" version I've ever come across. As an expert on Arthurian literature writing the series as more of a historical fiction than a fantasy, the author clearly went to great lengths to find the most accurate accounts of Arthur's reign. Still, she ultimately chose to tell the legends her way, and there are certainly no shortage of surprises here.
This is the second book of Hume's King Arthur trilogy. The first book Dragon's Child was about how Artor (Arthur) won his crown to become High King of the Britons, while Warrior of the West takes place approximately twelve years after that. The story almost feels like it is split into two parts, with the first half of the novel focusing on the war against Glamdring Ironfist and his army of Saxon invaders.
But while it was undoubtedly the right call for Hume to open the book with the excitement and conflict of a war campaign, I personally found the events of the second half of the novel more engaging. Having driven back his enemies, the rest of the book centers around Artor's efforts to establish his throne and his need for a legitimate heir. This, of course, is where Wenhaver (Guenevere) comes in, and the interesting part begins.
I have to say this book's characterization of Wenhaver is one of my favorite portrayals of King Arthur's queen that I've ever encountered. Simply put, she's a terrible, vicious person, little more than a spoiled child accustomed to using her beauty to get what she wants. In her afterword, Hume confesses that she has never much liked Guenevere or her character's relevance as someone who could bring ruin to an entire kingdom for the love of another man, and yet could still retain her likeability as a person. I've never thought about it that way, but the fact that Guenevere and her part in the legend has always been heavily romanticized is true enough.
However, in this story Wenhaver is a vile, jealous and sadistic character who cheats on her husband out of spite. Hume also leaves the character of Lancelot out entirely, which makes sense because she is staying faithful to the older versions of the legend (Lancelot is thought to have been absorbed into the Arthurian tradition after he was introduced by the French romances). But while there's no love lost between king and queen, Hume cultivates her character relationships in other places.
As a counterpoint to Wenhaver, we have Nimue, known commonly as the Lady of the Lake who enchants the heart of Merlin. Nimue is the polar opposite of Wenhaver, being a sweet, kindly and down-to-earth young woman -- which again is an intriguing portrayal of a key figure that is very different and unique. I love the background Hume has written for Nimue, while still managing to tie in a lot of the elements from the more popular versions of the legend, including her relationship with Myrddion Merlinus.
In spite of this, the story also feels grounded in historical reality, which I'm sure is due largely to Hume's research and academic expertise. The nature of the writing style also puts you right there, and is quite effective at emphasizing the brutality of the times. In some ways, the starkness of the prose makes the violence seem so much worse, making me feel a lot more squeamish. Indeed, the author does not spare us from the darker, bloodier side of forging a kingdom.
As you can see, the book veers off a great deal from the more "accepted" versions of the King Arthur legend, but that is also what I love best about it. The way Hume weaves her own personal imaginings into a framework which brings together myth and legend with historical accounts is what's making this series stand out for me. It's true that these novels lean further into historical fiction territory than fantasy, making them quite different than the type of books I'm currently reading now, but I'm definitely looking forward to checking out the conclusion of this trilogy.
Of the many re-tellings and interpretations I've read based on the King Arthur mythos, I think M.K. Hume's is probably the most "scholarly" version I've ever come across. As an expert on Arthurian literature writing the series as more of a historical fiction than a fantasy, the author clearly went to great lengths to find the most accurate accounts of Arthur's reign. Still, she ultimately chose to tell the legends her way, and there are certainly no shortage of surprises here.
This is the second book of Hume's King Arthur trilogy. The first book Dragon's Child was about how Artor (Arthur) won his crown to become High King of the Britons, while Warrior of the West takes place approximately twelve years after that. The story almost feels like it is split into two parts, with the first half of the novel focusing on the war against Glamdring Ironfist and his army of Saxon invaders.
But while it was undoubtedly the right call for Hume to open the book with the excitement and conflict of a war campaign, I personally found the events of the second half of the novel more engaging. Having driven back his enemies, the rest of the book centers around Artor's efforts to establish his throne and his need for a legitimate heir. This, of course, is where Wenhaver (Guenevere) comes in, and the interesting part begins.
I have to say this book's characterization of Wenhaver is one of my favorite portrayals of King Arthur's queen that I've ever encountered. Simply put, she's a terrible, vicious person, little more than a spoiled child accustomed to using her beauty to get what she wants. In her afterword, Hume confesses that she has never much liked Guenevere or her character's relevance as someone who could bring ruin to an entire kingdom for the love of another man, and yet could still retain her likeability as a person. I've never thought about it that way, but the fact that Guenevere and her part in the legend has always been heavily romanticized is true enough.
However, in this story Wenhaver is a vile, jealous and sadistic character who cheats on her husband out of spite. Hume also leaves the character of Lancelot out entirely, which makes sense because she is staying faithful to the older versions of the legend (Lancelot is thought to have been absorbed into the Arthurian tradition after he was introduced by the French romances). But while there's no love lost between king and queen, Hume cultivates her character relationships in other places.
As a counterpoint to Wenhaver, we have Nimue, known commonly as the Lady of the Lake who enchants the heart of Merlin. Nimue is the polar opposite of Wenhaver, being a sweet, kindly and down-to-earth young woman -- which again is an intriguing portrayal of a key figure that is very different and unique. I love the background Hume has written for Nimue, while still managing to tie in a lot of the elements from the more popular versions of the legend, including her relationship with Myrddion Merlinus.
In spite of this, the story also feels grounded in historical reality, which I'm sure is due largely to Hume's research and academic expertise. The nature of the writing style also puts you right there, and is quite effective at emphasizing the brutality of the times. In some ways, the starkness of the prose makes the violence seem so much worse, making me feel a lot more squeamish. Indeed, the author does not spare us from the darker, bloodier side of forging a kingdom.
As you can see, the book veers off a great deal from the more "accepted" versions of the King Arthur legend, but that is also what I love best about it. The way Hume weaves her own personal imaginings into a framework which brings together myth and legend with historical accounts is what's making this series stand out for me. It's true that these novels lean further into historical fiction territory than fantasy, making them quite different than the type of books I'm currently reading now, but I'm definitely looking forward to checking out the conclusion of this trilogy.
November 11, 2014
I loved it and I hated it. If I could give two reviews one for the first part and one for the second one, I would.
But first I have to say that I've read the first novel in the trilogy many years ago and I don't remember it much except that I didn't like it (plus some stuff in the plot) so I will not make comparison with the first novel or about character development.
To write a review about this novel I will have to separate it into two parts.
But first I have to say that I've read the first novel in the trilogy many years ago and I don't remember it much except that I didn't like it (plus some stuff in the plot) so I will not make comparison with the first novel or about character development.
To write a review about this novel I will have to separate it into two parts.
April 29, 2022
Este libro, sobre todo la primera mitad, me ha dado todo lo que yo pido a un libro sobre el mito artúrico. La segunda parte ya me gustó menos, sobre todo por lo exagerado de algunos personajes y relaciones, pero, aún así, me parece una buena lectura.
January 1, 2015
If this book had a face, I would happily punch it every day until next Christmas. As it doesn't, I'll have to settle for ranting about it instead.
Its predecessor, King Arthur: Dragon's Child , was a decent bit of brain-candy imagining the younger years of Artorex that I enjoyed despite its flaws. Warrior of the West, catching up with King Artor twelve years later, compounded those flaws and nearly drove me to complete rage more than once - throughout the second half I had to take frequent breaks in order to swear at it profusely, nearly break my kindle in fits of temper, and wish a violent death upon virtually every character within.
Now High King of the Britons, Artor has spent the last decade murdering every Saxon he comes across. When his emissaries are killed while negotiating a truce, he mounts an assault on the Saxon stronghold of Glamdring Ironfist. The first half of the book builds slowly towards this, showing a little of how Artor has changed in the intervening years and introducing Ironfist and a few of his compatriots, including the slave Bedwyr. Considering the amount of time spent on him, Bedwyr would appear to be an important new character but it turns out that as soon as Artor has his victory he's promptly forgotten about and never mentioned again.
Unfortunately, this victory also kicked off the deeply problematic second half of the book, during which its focus on characters brought the problems of the first book into the spotlight. While Uther may be long dead, Artor's foster-brother Caius is still around and so subtly drawn that he may as well be called Rapey McStabs-a-lot and have the Death March start up whenever he walked onto the page. But Rapey has nothing on Wenhaver, Hume's version of Guinevere. There was really no need for Hume to mention her dislike of Guinevere in her accompanying notes, as her contempt shone through in one of the most flagrant examples of character bashing that I've ever come across. I have no problem with unlikeable and flawed characters, but I do have a problem with those obviously set up solely for unfavourable comparisons to a character the author does like. The Wenhaver of this book isn't really appalling for her own sake or that of the story, but so that we'll also worship Nimue (or as I soon came to call her, Fucking Nimue).
Having been saved as a baby in Dragon's Child and brought under the protection of the High King, Fucking Nimue is now grown up and serving as the apprentice of Merlinus, and is the most beautiful, most elegant, most interesting, most intelligent, most caring, most wonderful woman to have ever walked the earth. I suspect that not only do her farts smell like freshly baked cookies, but that she shits sunbeams too (and that eating them would probably cure world hunger and stop all wars forever). She's so fabulous that no-one (including the book) can stop themselves from commenting every five minutes on how bloody wonderful she is, and comparing her to Wenhaver who is portrayed as being every awful thing that has ever been said about a woman. Petulant, spiteful, rude, abusive, promiscuous, immature, irrational and thick (amongst many other awful things), no-one (including the book) can stop themselves from calling her a cow, a bitch, a slut or, more often, a whore any time her name is mentioned. Even when noting her beauty the book can't help but mention that her dress clashes with her skin making her look shit compared to Fucking Nimue (rhymes with Mary Sue!) who, of course, looks like a supermodel even while wearing a sack.
It's at this point that I started sounding like Samuel Jackson having a vicious fit of Tourette's, which the stupid serial-killer sub-plot that sprang up here made even worse. While Merlinus shows off his psychological profiling and forensic skills and generally acts like he's a heartbeat away from pulling out a pair of sunglasses and a bad pun, it soon becomes apparent that even the serial killer is obsessed with Fucking Nimue, though he sadly doesn't succeed in murdering her before he's unveiled as - surprise! - the one bloke that we're constantly reminded is a shit.
If I do read the last in this trilogy (unlikely, although I'd already stupidly bought it after Dragon's Child) it'll only be so that I can root for Wenhaver to screw every man, woman and beast on Cadbury Tor and give Artor such a raging case of syphilis that his face falls off just in time for the Saxons to arrive and, hopefully, kick everyone's teeth in.
**Also posted at Randomly Reading and Ranting**
Its predecessor, King Arthur: Dragon's Child , was a decent bit of brain-candy imagining the younger years of Artorex that I enjoyed despite its flaws. Warrior of the West, catching up with King Artor twelve years later, compounded those flaws and nearly drove me to complete rage more than once - throughout the second half I had to take frequent breaks in order to swear at it profusely, nearly break my kindle in fits of temper, and wish a violent death upon virtually every character within.
Now High King of the Britons, Artor has spent the last decade murdering every Saxon he comes across. When his emissaries are killed while negotiating a truce, he mounts an assault on the Saxon stronghold of Glamdring Ironfist. The first half of the book builds slowly towards this, showing a little of how Artor has changed in the intervening years and introducing Ironfist and a few of his compatriots, including the slave Bedwyr. Considering the amount of time spent on him, Bedwyr would appear to be an important new character but it turns out that as soon as Artor has his victory he's promptly forgotten about and never mentioned again.
Unfortunately, this victory also kicked off the deeply problematic second half of the book, during which its focus on characters brought the problems of the first book into the spotlight. While Uther may be long dead, Artor's foster-brother Caius is still around and so subtly drawn that he may as well be called Rapey McStabs-a-lot and have the Death March start up whenever he walked onto the page. But Rapey has nothing on Wenhaver, Hume's version of Guinevere. There was really no need for Hume to mention her dislike of Guinevere in her accompanying notes, as her contempt shone through in one of the most flagrant examples of character bashing that I've ever come across. I have no problem with unlikeable and flawed characters, but I do have a problem with those obviously set up solely for unfavourable comparisons to a character the author does like. The Wenhaver of this book isn't really appalling for her own sake or that of the story, but so that we'll also worship Nimue (or as I soon came to call her, Fucking Nimue).
Having been saved as a baby in Dragon's Child and brought under the protection of the High King, Fucking Nimue is now grown up and serving as the apprentice of Merlinus, and is the most beautiful, most elegant, most interesting, most intelligent, most caring, most wonderful woman to have ever walked the earth. I suspect that not only do her farts smell like freshly baked cookies, but that she shits sunbeams too (and that eating them would probably cure world hunger and stop all wars forever). She's so fabulous that no-one (including the book) can stop themselves from commenting every five minutes on how bloody wonderful she is, and comparing her to Wenhaver who is portrayed as being every awful thing that has ever been said about a woman. Petulant, spiteful, rude, abusive, promiscuous, immature, irrational and thick (amongst many other awful things), no-one (including the book) can stop themselves from calling her a cow, a bitch, a slut or, more often, a whore any time her name is mentioned. Even when noting her beauty the book can't help but mention that her dress clashes with her skin making her look shit compared to Fucking Nimue (rhymes with Mary Sue!) who, of course, looks like a supermodel even while wearing a sack.
It's at this point that I started sounding like Samuel Jackson having a vicious fit of Tourette's, which the stupid serial-killer sub-plot that sprang up here made even worse. While Merlinus shows off his psychological profiling and forensic skills and generally acts like he's a heartbeat away from pulling out a pair of sunglasses and a bad pun, it soon becomes apparent that even the serial killer is obsessed with Fucking Nimue, though he sadly doesn't succeed in murdering her before he's unveiled as - surprise! - the one bloke that we're constantly reminded is a shit.
If I do read the last in this trilogy (unlikely, although I'd already stupidly bought it after Dragon's Child) it'll only be so that I can root for Wenhaver to screw every man, woman and beast on Cadbury Tor and give Artor such a raging case of syphilis that his face falls off just in time for the Saxons to arrive and, hopefully, kick everyone's teeth in.
**Also posted at Randomly Reading and Ranting**
January 11, 2013
This compelling epic masterpiece is truly spectacular, encapsulating the Arthurian legends in such exquisite detail!
The remarkable sequel to Dragon’s Child continues the tale of Arthur, king of the Britons whose legendary tale is one cherished by so many readers. The story picks up from where it left off with Artor crowned High King and whose blood-soaked reign has lasted twelve long years. The Saxon scourge has been banished, replaced by a united Celtic Britain that has conquered external threats standing now at its zenith. M. K Hume captures the exquisite depth and intricate detail of the times, presenting you with a realistic, well-researched vivid account of the age – thus the myths and legends are brought to life once more. As Artor’s kingdom is threatened unknowingly from within, he makes the ultimate choice with Wenhaver becoming his Queen and second wife. It is her deep-rooted bitterness, her longing for the untouchable that poisons those around her, as she attempts to betray the one individual whom trusts her utterly and completely. Artor must make that sacrifice for his kingdom, for if not then a terrible fate may ensue that could threaten all that he has fought for…
(Quote) ‘…Artor will be the greatest of men. When the stars fall, and all we know is forgotten, Artor will be remembered. We, too, will become creatures of myth, as insubstantial as ghosts, because we were a part of his life here on Earth. Some men were born for burdens, and one of those is Artor. Some men were born for tears, and Artor is one of those men…’
This exciting, compelling and truly magical tale is a historical masterpiece and outstanding achievement of such great scope thought impossible. MK Hume outshines all other authors who have written works based on the Arthurian legends and tales of Merlin; including Camelot, Guinevere, the round table and the Knights such as Sir Gwain and Sir Lancelot. This delicately interwoven narrative interlaced with such beautiful simplicity will astound, as the complexity of the storyline and immense world-building draws you in. Authentic, believable and brilliant I cannot enthuse enough about this accomplished author whose work has enchanted me, and as a result I shall forever remain a devoted and ardent fan and admirer.
Whether you deem that King Arthur was a myth, or if he was indeed a Celtic Warlord or even nothing more than an embellished folk tale you cannot help but be empowered and stunned by this original creation. MK Hume has lived, breathed and drunk in these tales of old and in doing so has consequently produced something so impressive, and faithful as to delight so many readers.
The remarkable sequel to Dragon’s Child continues the tale of Arthur, king of the Britons whose legendary tale is one cherished by so many readers. The story picks up from where it left off with Artor crowned High King and whose blood-soaked reign has lasted twelve long years. The Saxon scourge has been banished, replaced by a united Celtic Britain that has conquered external threats standing now at its zenith. M. K Hume captures the exquisite depth and intricate detail of the times, presenting you with a realistic, well-researched vivid account of the age – thus the myths and legends are brought to life once more. As Artor’s kingdom is threatened unknowingly from within, he makes the ultimate choice with Wenhaver becoming his Queen and second wife. It is her deep-rooted bitterness, her longing for the untouchable that poisons those around her, as she attempts to betray the one individual whom trusts her utterly and completely. Artor must make that sacrifice for his kingdom, for if not then a terrible fate may ensue that could threaten all that he has fought for…
(Quote) ‘…Artor will be the greatest of men. When the stars fall, and all we know is forgotten, Artor will be remembered. We, too, will become creatures of myth, as insubstantial as ghosts, because we were a part of his life here on Earth. Some men were born for burdens, and one of those is Artor. Some men were born for tears, and Artor is one of those men…’
This exciting, compelling and truly magical tale is a historical masterpiece and outstanding achievement of such great scope thought impossible. MK Hume outshines all other authors who have written works based on the Arthurian legends and tales of Merlin; including Camelot, Guinevere, the round table and the Knights such as Sir Gwain and Sir Lancelot. This delicately interwoven narrative interlaced with such beautiful simplicity will astound, as the complexity of the storyline and immense world-building draws you in. Authentic, believable and brilliant I cannot enthuse enough about this accomplished author whose work has enchanted me, and as a result I shall forever remain a devoted and ardent fan and admirer.
Whether you deem that King Arthur was a myth, or if he was indeed a Celtic Warlord or even nothing more than an embellished folk tale you cannot help but be empowered and stunned by this original creation. MK Hume has lived, breathed and drunk in these tales of old and in doing so has consequently produced something so impressive, and faithful as to delight so many readers.
December 29, 2018
This very exciting book is the 2nd volume of the King Arthur trilogy.
Again it's another cracking story, and the whole tale is told in a very dedicated and passionate way by the author, for it pictures Celtic Britain in a most authentic fashion.
The characters come all vividly to life within the story and the atmosphere of the times really comes of the pages.
The tale itself is about King Artor, High King of the Britons, who after twelve long years of war has finally united Celtic Britain and so the legend of Camlann has begun.
But now dangers come from within Artor's Kingdom, because it's undermined by the betrayal and actions of his second wife, Queen Wenhaver, who loves what she cannot have and have what she cannot love, although she should be the person Artor should be able to trust, and because of appalling perversion at the heart of his Kingdom.
And so finally Artor has to make a terrible choice, whether to follow the actions taken by his despotic father Uther Pendragon or to let evil go unchecked and perhaps lose everything he has fought for.
This is a most thrilling and compelling book and one I like to call "A Superb Sequel"!
Again it's another cracking story, and the whole tale is told in a very dedicated and passionate way by the author, for it pictures Celtic Britain in a most authentic fashion.
The characters come all vividly to life within the story and the atmosphere of the times really comes of the pages.
The tale itself is about King Artor, High King of the Britons, who after twelve long years of war has finally united Celtic Britain and so the legend of Camlann has begun.
But now dangers come from within Artor's Kingdom, because it's undermined by the betrayal and actions of his second wife, Queen Wenhaver, who loves what she cannot have and have what she cannot love, although she should be the person Artor should be able to trust, and because of appalling perversion at the heart of his Kingdom.
And so finally Artor has to make a terrible choice, whether to follow the actions taken by his despotic father Uther Pendragon or to let evil go unchecked and perhaps lose everything he has fought for.
This is a most thrilling and compelling book and one I like to call "A Superb Sequel"!
March 9, 2018
M.K.Hume’s Warrior of the West, #2 The King Arthur Trilogy, begins twelve years after Artor becomes High King of Briton. The warriors he sends under a truce flag including Gaheris, Queen Morgause’s youngest son to make a treaty with the Saxon leader, Glamring Ironfist, are murdered as they wait to parley. Artor must avenge these warriors sent in peace. The battle that follows is brutal, bloody, but King Artor’s plan succeeds. Ms. Hume’s writing is precise, and the reader gets a very vivid picture of battle in the 5th century Dark Age Britain. Once peace has been obtained, a late 30s Artor realizes he must marry again to produce an heir. Myrddion selects Wenhaver (Guinevere) as her father will be Artor’s ally. Wenhaver is not what the reader will think Guinevere should be. There are different characters that play major roles as well as additional name and personalities changes found here. Nimue is one that I enjoyed the most. Ms. Hume uses older legends in addition to her personal preference in writing this book. I found this book to be brutally honest, vastly altered, and emotionally draining at times, but it is a book for a true King Arthur enthusiast.
August 14, 2018
I enjoyed this second book even more than the first!
The first half, with Artor's big battle against Glamdring Ironfist, was a strong opening that was full of adventure, but it was the second half that really captivated me. Looking at Artor's Court and his attempts to marry and provide a legitimate heir was so compelling. I loved the almost reversal of the characters of Nimue and Wenhaver, as it was a completely different take on the story. Everything that happened showed Artor struggling to be a man and a King, and this was so realistic. Such a brilliant retelling - I hope the third book is as good.
The first half, with Artor's big battle against Glamdring Ironfist, was a strong opening that was full of adventure, but it was the second half that really captivated me. Looking at Artor's Court and his attempts to marry and provide a legitimate heir was so compelling. I loved the almost reversal of the characters of Nimue and Wenhaver, as it was a completely different take on the story. Everything that happened showed Artor struggling to be a man and a King, and this was so realistic. Such a brilliant retelling - I hope the third book is as good.
January 22, 2018
I received an advanced reading copy from NetGalley. This is the second book in M.K. Hume's King Arthur Trilogy and I wanted to read them in order, so I ordered the first book as well. I read both back to back and really enjoyed them. I thought Warrior of the West surpassed the first book, which is rare. What I like about this book is that she does not put King Arthur up on a pedestal. You can see his heroics throughout the story, but she doesn't just throw him into God status like other King Arthur stories do. This is book I would recommend for those who enjoy King Arthur stories. After reading the ARC, I bought a copy of the book for myself.
February 21, 2018
difficult, didnt flow as well as first book. Again silly names.
February 13, 2017
I've read quite a number of re-tellings of Arthurian legend, M.K. Hume's interpretation by far is one of the best and one of my favourites. It is a realistically written - this book is refreshingly free of any supernatural happenings - good-read.
In is second volume, which opens twelve years after Artor (Arthur) has been crowned High King, Thane Glamdring Ironfist, a fierce Saxon leader continues to attack Artor’s domain. Like in the first novel, Arthur is no idealized king – he is ruthlessly pragmatic, doing whatever is necessary to ensure the survival of his kingdom. These are not only evident in his war strategies but also in his marriage to Wenhaver (Guinevere).
Wenhaver is a spoilt, vindictive and cruel young woman. and the marriage is a disaster from the outset. Guinevere fans may raise their eyebrows at her portrayal, but I really wanted to have her executed before the story was over...
This is a tale to approach in an unhurried manner. It's not a book to finish on a rainy a day (there's a great chance you falling asleep) but a book to be pondered over and digested slowly. So don't expect to swallow it in one go, you'll find it a highly dissatisfying experience.
I am looking forward to start the next novel –
In is second volume, which opens twelve years after Artor (Arthur) has been crowned High King, Thane Glamdring Ironfist, a fierce Saxon leader continues to attack Artor’s domain. Like in the first novel, Arthur is no idealized king – he is ruthlessly pragmatic, doing whatever is necessary to ensure the survival of his kingdom. These are not only evident in his war strategies but also in his marriage to Wenhaver (Guinevere).
Wenhaver is a spoilt, vindictive and cruel young woman. and the marriage is a disaster from the outset. Guinevere fans may raise their eyebrows at her portrayal, but I really wanted to have her executed before the story was over...
This is a tale to approach in an unhurried manner. It's not a book to finish on a rainy a day (there's a great chance you falling asleep) but a book to be pondered over and digested slowly. So don't expect to swallow it in one go, you'll find it a highly dissatisfying experience.
I am looking forward to start the next novel –
July 27, 2011
Absolutely fantastic book!! I think I may even like it even more than the first. It's instantly captivating as the opening of the book starts off with bloodshed closely followed by the almighty war between Artor and his united tribes and the Saxon force. The plot with Wenhaver was also really interesting, not the usual love story we hear about. Definitely looking forward to how that ends. Having briefly studied the history of Great Britain I found myself even more fascinated as I realised how much M K Hume has stuck to the history as well as the myths and legends. There were both triumphant and devasting moments - I found myself with wet eyes after one particular chapter. The only thing I found unsatisfying about this book was the anticlimatic role of Nimue in the end but very well done and really looking forward to the next one.
November 2, 2015
I was very happy to read the second in the series and find that it held up very well against book one. I like this authors writing style and the way that she has built the world of Arthur and his friends, family and kingdom is excellent. I also for some reason am very into the fact that her Wenafar is not a nice person.
November 5, 2013
Originally published at Risingshadow.
M. K. Hume's Warrior of the West continues the story of King Arthur in an exciting and entertaining way. Dragon's Child was an intriguing introduction to The King Arthur Trilogy, but this novel reveals the true vastness of the epic story arc that the author has created.
Just like Dragon's Child, Warrior of the West is a gritty, mesmerizing and well written historical novel with a few fantastical elements. The fantastical elements include casting bones and prophecies etc.
Here's information about this novel:
- The events take place a few years after the events of Dragon's Child.
- Warrior of the West has been divided into two parts. The first part tells about Artor's battle against the Saxons. The second part tells about Artor and Wenhaver and what happens at Cadbury Tor.
- This novel begins with a meeting between the Celts and the Saxons. This meeting ends badly. Artor is at Cadbury Tor and awaits news of the possible truce, but receives different kind of news. A war council is held and the Celts decide to go to war against the Saxons, because the Saxons are brutally attacking against them. The war against the Saxons takes a lot of Arthur's time, because they have to win the war. Times are desperate, so the Celts must fight for their country...
- When the battle is over, Artor knows that he must soon take a new wife. He still misses Gallia, but he knows that he must marry somebody soon. Artor takes Wenhaver as his wife, but their life together isn't happy. Life at Cadbury Tor changes a lot with the coming of Wenhaver...
That's all I'll write about the story, because I don't want to reveal too many details and happenings. I'll only mention that the author has interesting suprises in store for her readers.
At this point I'll mention that the story moves fluently forward and several things happen to the characters. I think it's good that the author has used a time gap between Dragon's Child and Warrior of the West. This time gap has allowed her to develop the characters and the happenings.
In my opinion writing about the battle against the Saxons and what happens to Bedwyr was an interesting way to start this novel, because the author concentrated fully on writing about it. After the battle the author shifted the focus shifted to Cadbury Tor and Artor's doomed marriage to Wenhaver.
The cast of characters is just as diverse as it was in the previous novel, because the author writes about all kinds of characters from ladies and lords to servants and slaves. Several characters from the previous novel appear in this novel, but the author also introduces new characters.
Here's information about some of the characters:
- Artor is the High King of the Britons. He has changed during the last twelve years, because he's harder than before. The battles have left their marks on him. He still has honour, but the blood soaked years have hardened him. He's a harsh man who has duties.
- Gruffydd and Myrddion are still as interesting characters as they were in Dragon's Child. The author writes fluently about them.
- Caius has become a steward to Artor.
- Bedwyr is an interesting character, because he's a Celt who was captured by the Saxons. The author uses Bedwyr to explore what happens among the Saxons.
- Wenhaver is a beautiful and spoiled woman. She's the daughter of King Leodegran. She's also the woman with yellow hair that Morgan prophesized about. I'll write more about her later.
- Morgan is still as evil and manipulative as before, but she has aged.
- Nimue has grown up and a tragedy changes her life. She's a sweet young woman, but she's also wild.
- Glamdring Ironfist is a Saxon war chief. He causes problems for Artor and the Celts.
The characterization works well and the author manages to deepen the character of Artor. She also writes fluently about other characters. I enjoyed reading about Artor, Wenhaver, Nimue, Gruffydd, Myrddion, Morgan and Bedwyr.
Reading about Wenhaver and her actions was especially interesting, because she had a vile temper. Her behaviour and attitude towards others became worse as time went by and she turned out to be capable of doing surprisingly bad things. She was like a spoiled child who wanted people to pay attention to her. If people didn't pay attention to her, she was offended and acted badly.
M. K. Hume writes perfectly about how bad a person Wenhaver is and shows what she is capable of doing to others. She's capable of hurting people - and even her own husband - in several ways and nobody seems to be safe from her temper. It's great that the author has managed to write so boldly about her life.
It was fascinating to reading how Artor's marriage to Wenhaver was doomed from the start, because he was't impressed by his wife and her behaviour. Artor seemed to use Wenhaver mostly for sex, because Wenhaver couldn't act like a queen or a wife should act. Their marriage was cold and unhappy for both of them.
M. K. Hume writes fascinatingly about life in ancient Britain and shows what kind of values people used to have and how the Celts regarded the Saxons as savages. She also shows how history has shaped ancient Britain and how Roman customs were absorbed by the populace (hygiene and public bathing etc). The detailed descriptions about the places, characters and battles are believable.
What separates this novel from several other Arthurian novels is the amount of details M. K. Hume has added to the story. It's easy to see that she has spent time researching historical happenings and all things related to the Arthurian legend. She has done her best to bring the happenings to life by writing about what happens to the characters and how brutal life was in ancient times, and she has succeeded in it.
It's great that the author shows what happens among the Saxons too, because it adds depth to the storyline. It was fascinating to read about the actions and brutality of the Saxons and how they treated men and women. What happened at the Saxon camp was both brutal and thrilling.
One of the best things about this novel (and this series) is that the author shows that the characters have to live with what they have done. She isn't easy on her characters, because some of them have to endure all kinds of things. I've always enjoyed reading about how the characters feel about what they have done and how they live with the consequences of their actions, because it adds plenty of depth to the characters.
I enjoyed reading about how the shadow of the late Uther Pendragon loomed over Artor and how some characters saw that there were similarities between Artor and Uther. This added a menacing sense of doom to the storyline, because the author indicated that if things were a bit different, Artor could turn out to be as bad and ruthless as Uther.
There are several good scenes in this novel that reveal what the characters feel about other persons. For example, the author revealed how Artor cares about his daughter and wanted her to be safe. I also enjoyed reading about Myrddion's feelings towards Nimue.
M. K. Hume has her own writing style. Her writing style is delightfully different, because she pays attention to historical details and keeps the story going on. It's easy to see that she loves storytelling, because she writes passionately about the happenings and the characters.
The author's descriptions about the battle scenes are good and realistic. In my opinion she manages to write about them in a bit different way than other authors do. She concentrates on writing about how Artor and the others feel about the battles and how they try to win their foes by using careful planning and strategic thinking.
Warrior of the West is a novel for adults, because there's sex and violence in it. These scenes are suitable only for adult readers.
It's nice that M. K. Hume doesn't shy away from gritty, bloody and dark happenings, because other authors would've probably written differently about these things (to be honest, it's actually amazing how gritty the story is). She writes brutally and unflinchingly about violence. She shows that men are capable of doing all kinds of brutal things to others. The scenes near the end in which a human monster attacks and preys on helpless victims reminded me a bit of the brutal happenings in the first novel (I'd like to write more about this, but I think it's best not to write about it or I might reveal too many things to readers).
Before I finish writing this review, I'll mention that there are good maps in this novel. They are useful to readers, because they give information about the places. I'll also mention that I liked the cover image.
I enjoyed reading Dragon's Child, but I have to admit that Warrior of the West is a much better novel and has more depth in it. In my opinion Warrior of the West is an exceptionally good and compelling retelling of the Arthurian legend, because the author has written her own unique vision of King Arthur, his life and his deeds.
I'll soon read and review The Bloody Cup, which is the third novel of The King Arthur Trilogy. I look forward to reading it, because it'll be fascinating to see how this trilogy ends. I'm sure that it'll be a thrilling novel, because this novel was good entertainment.
If you're interested in the legend of King Arthur and enjoy reading Arthurian novels, you should read Warrior of the West and its predecessor (Dragon's Child), because M. K. Hume has written a totally different kind of story about King Arthur. She delivers a captivating and epic story that keeps readers turning pages to find out what happens next.
Fantastic entertainment for adults!
M. K. Hume's Warrior of the West continues the story of King Arthur in an exciting and entertaining way. Dragon's Child was an intriguing introduction to The King Arthur Trilogy, but this novel reveals the true vastness of the epic story arc that the author has created.
Just like Dragon's Child, Warrior of the West is a gritty, mesmerizing and well written historical novel with a few fantastical elements. The fantastical elements include casting bones and prophecies etc.
Here's information about this novel:
- The events take place a few years after the events of Dragon's Child.
- Warrior of the West has been divided into two parts. The first part tells about Artor's battle against the Saxons. The second part tells about Artor and Wenhaver and what happens at Cadbury Tor.
- This novel begins with a meeting between the Celts and the Saxons. This meeting ends badly. Artor is at Cadbury Tor and awaits news of the possible truce, but receives different kind of news. A war council is held and the Celts decide to go to war against the Saxons, because the Saxons are brutally attacking against them. The war against the Saxons takes a lot of Arthur's time, because they have to win the war. Times are desperate, so the Celts must fight for their country...
- When the battle is over, Artor knows that he must soon take a new wife. He still misses Gallia, but he knows that he must marry somebody soon. Artor takes Wenhaver as his wife, but their life together isn't happy. Life at Cadbury Tor changes a lot with the coming of Wenhaver...
That's all I'll write about the story, because I don't want to reveal too many details and happenings. I'll only mention that the author has interesting suprises in store for her readers.
At this point I'll mention that the story moves fluently forward and several things happen to the characters. I think it's good that the author has used a time gap between Dragon's Child and Warrior of the West. This time gap has allowed her to develop the characters and the happenings.
In my opinion writing about the battle against the Saxons and what happens to Bedwyr was an interesting way to start this novel, because the author concentrated fully on writing about it. After the battle the author shifted the focus shifted to Cadbury Tor and Artor's doomed marriage to Wenhaver.
The cast of characters is just as diverse as it was in the previous novel, because the author writes about all kinds of characters from ladies and lords to servants and slaves. Several characters from the previous novel appear in this novel, but the author also introduces new characters.
Here's information about some of the characters:
- Artor is the High King of the Britons. He has changed during the last twelve years, because he's harder than before. The battles have left their marks on him. He still has honour, but the blood soaked years have hardened him. He's a harsh man who has duties.
- Gruffydd and Myrddion are still as interesting characters as they were in Dragon's Child. The author writes fluently about them.
- Caius has become a steward to Artor.
- Bedwyr is an interesting character, because he's a Celt who was captured by the Saxons. The author uses Bedwyr to explore what happens among the Saxons.
- Wenhaver is a beautiful and spoiled woman. She's the daughter of King Leodegran. She's also the woman with yellow hair that Morgan prophesized about. I'll write more about her later.
- Morgan is still as evil and manipulative as before, but she has aged.
- Nimue has grown up and a tragedy changes her life. She's a sweet young woman, but she's also wild.
- Glamdring Ironfist is a Saxon war chief. He causes problems for Artor and the Celts.
The characterization works well and the author manages to deepen the character of Artor. She also writes fluently about other characters. I enjoyed reading about Artor, Wenhaver, Nimue, Gruffydd, Myrddion, Morgan and Bedwyr.
Reading about Wenhaver and her actions was especially interesting, because she had a vile temper. Her behaviour and attitude towards others became worse as time went by and she turned out to be capable of doing surprisingly bad things. She was like a spoiled child who wanted people to pay attention to her. If people didn't pay attention to her, she was offended and acted badly.
M. K. Hume writes perfectly about how bad a person Wenhaver is and shows what she is capable of doing to others. She's capable of hurting people - and even her own husband - in several ways and nobody seems to be safe from her temper. It's great that the author has managed to write so boldly about her life.
It was fascinating to reading how Artor's marriage to Wenhaver was doomed from the start, because he was't impressed by his wife and her behaviour. Artor seemed to use Wenhaver mostly for sex, because Wenhaver couldn't act like a queen or a wife should act. Their marriage was cold and unhappy for both of them.
M. K. Hume writes fascinatingly about life in ancient Britain and shows what kind of values people used to have and how the Celts regarded the Saxons as savages. She also shows how history has shaped ancient Britain and how Roman customs were absorbed by the populace (hygiene and public bathing etc). The detailed descriptions about the places, characters and battles are believable.
What separates this novel from several other Arthurian novels is the amount of details M. K. Hume has added to the story. It's easy to see that she has spent time researching historical happenings and all things related to the Arthurian legend. She has done her best to bring the happenings to life by writing about what happens to the characters and how brutal life was in ancient times, and she has succeeded in it.
It's great that the author shows what happens among the Saxons too, because it adds depth to the storyline. It was fascinating to read about the actions and brutality of the Saxons and how they treated men and women. What happened at the Saxon camp was both brutal and thrilling.
One of the best things about this novel (and this series) is that the author shows that the characters have to live with what they have done. She isn't easy on her characters, because some of them have to endure all kinds of things. I've always enjoyed reading about how the characters feel about what they have done and how they live with the consequences of their actions, because it adds plenty of depth to the characters.
I enjoyed reading about how the shadow of the late Uther Pendragon loomed over Artor and how some characters saw that there were similarities between Artor and Uther. This added a menacing sense of doom to the storyline, because the author indicated that if things were a bit different, Artor could turn out to be as bad and ruthless as Uther.
There are several good scenes in this novel that reveal what the characters feel about other persons. For example, the author revealed how Artor cares about his daughter and wanted her to be safe. I also enjoyed reading about Myrddion's feelings towards Nimue.
M. K. Hume has her own writing style. Her writing style is delightfully different, because she pays attention to historical details and keeps the story going on. It's easy to see that she loves storytelling, because she writes passionately about the happenings and the characters.
The author's descriptions about the battle scenes are good and realistic. In my opinion she manages to write about them in a bit different way than other authors do. She concentrates on writing about how Artor and the others feel about the battles and how they try to win their foes by using careful planning and strategic thinking.
Warrior of the West is a novel for adults, because there's sex and violence in it. These scenes are suitable only for adult readers.
It's nice that M. K. Hume doesn't shy away from gritty, bloody and dark happenings, because other authors would've probably written differently about these things (to be honest, it's actually amazing how gritty the story is). She writes brutally and unflinchingly about violence. She shows that men are capable of doing all kinds of brutal things to others. The scenes near the end in which a human monster attacks and preys on helpless victims reminded me a bit of the brutal happenings in the first novel (I'd like to write more about this, but I think it's best not to write about it or I might reveal too many things to readers).
Before I finish writing this review, I'll mention that there are good maps in this novel. They are useful to readers, because they give information about the places. I'll also mention that I liked the cover image.
I enjoyed reading Dragon's Child, but I have to admit that Warrior of the West is a much better novel and has more depth in it. In my opinion Warrior of the West is an exceptionally good and compelling retelling of the Arthurian legend, because the author has written her own unique vision of King Arthur, his life and his deeds.
I'll soon read and review The Bloody Cup, which is the third novel of The King Arthur Trilogy. I look forward to reading it, because it'll be fascinating to see how this trilogy ends. I'm sure that it'll be a thrilling novel, because this novel was good entertainment.
If you're interested in the legend of King Arthur and enjoy reading Arthurian novels, you should read Warrior of the West and its predecessor (Dragon's Child), because M. K. Hume has written a totally different kind of story about King Arthur. She delivers a captivating and epic story that keeps readers turning pages to find out what happens next.
Fantastic entertainment for adults!
October 22, 2021
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 3.0 of 5
It has been just over a decade since Artor (Arthur) was crowned King of the Britons. In that time he has worked tirelessly to unite his kingdom (by force, if necessary). There is one remaining holdout - the savage Glamdring Ironfist. Unknown to Artor, he has an ally inside Glamdring's inner circle. Bedwyr, who dreamed of serving his king, Artor, well, was captured by the Saxons and became Glamdring's personal dog/slave. Bedwyr bided his time, constantly looking for the opportunity to escape, and did so, bringing Artor important information on Glamdring's army.
Once Glamdring and the Saxon were fully defeated, Artor could devote himself to his marriage to Wenyvar (Guinevere) - a spoiled, nasty little brat. But complicating his life is the beautiful, smart, should-be-queen Nimue who is an apprentice to Merlinus. Everyone loves Nimue and hates Wenyvar.
Wait ... is this the right story?
Although this is the second book in a series (my usual luck) this book is essentially two books in itself. The first half is all about setting up the confrontation with Glamdring and then seeing it through. The second half is all about Artor, Wenyver, Nimue, and Merlinus. They are two very different books and honestly, a couple of chapters in to the second half and I was paging backward and checking the table of contents to see if it was, in fact, two books (I couldn't find anything that said it was). The two halves truly are that different.
The first half, the Glamdring story, was very well told and really exciting. Bedwyr's story - being captured, enslaved, escape - was well done. Really, he comes out as the hero in the story. But of course he is doing it all for his king.
The second half of the story was kind of a yawn. It was like almost every teen-girl YA book I've ever read. Bratty girl gets all the attention while the smart, pretty-but-doesn't-know-it girl is over-looked while she concocts a plan to get her due.
And while both books, or rather, both halves, center around Artor, he's kind of a passive bystander in much of it.
For a couple of different reasons, I have done a fair amount of research and reading of the King Arthur legends and stories. The first half of this was right up there with some of the best books I've read on the theme (like Mary Stewart's Merlin trilogy), whereas the second half was among the worst. It's too bad it wasn't the other way around because now I have no desire to read either the first book in the series or the third.
Looking for a good book? Half of Warrior of the West by M.K. Hume was really well written and thrilling, while the other half was slow plod. If you are really interested in a King Arthur themed book, look around, there are better options.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
It has been just over a decade since Artor (Arthur) was crowned King of the Britons. In that time he has worked tirelessly to unite his kingdom (by force, if necessary). There is one remaining holdout - the savage Glamdring Ironfist. Unknown to Artor, he has an ally inside Glamdring's inner circle. Bedwyr, who dreamed of serving his king, Artor, well, was captured by the Saxons and became Glamdring's personal dog/slave. Bedwyr bided his time, constantly looking for the opportunity to escape, and did so, bringing Artor important information on Glamdring's army.
Once Glamdring and the Saxon were fully defeated, Artor could devote himself to his marriage to Wenyvar (Guinevere) - a spoiled, nasty little brat. But complicating his life is the beautiful, smart, should-be-queen Nimue who is an apprentice to Merlinus. Everyone loves Nimue and hates Wenyvar.
Wait ... is this the right story?
Although this is the second book in a series (my usual luck) this book is essentially two books in itself. The first half is all about setting up the confrontation with Glamdring and then seeing it through. The second half is all about Artor, Wenyver, Nimue, and Merlinus. They are two very different books and honestly, a couple of chapters in to the second half and I was paging backward and checking the table of contents to see if it was, in fact, two books (I couldn't find anything that said it was). The two halves truly are that different.
The first half, the Glamdring story, was very well told and really exciting. Bedwyr's story - being captured, enslaved, escape - was well done. Really, he comes out as the hero in the story. But of course he is doing it all for his king.
The second half of the story was kind of a yawn. It was like almost every teen-girl YA book I've ever read. Bratty girl gets all the attention while the smart, pretty-but-doesn't-know-it girl is over-looked while she concocts a plan to get her due.
And while both books, or rather, both halves, center around Artor, he's kind of a passive bystander in much of it.
For a couple of different reasons, I have done a fair amount of research and reading of the King Arthur legends and stories. The first half of this was right up there with some of the best books I've read on the theme (like Mary Stewart's Merlin trilogy), whereas the second half was among the worst. It's too bad it wasn't the other way around because now I have no desire to read either the first book in the series or the third.
Looking for a good book? Half of Warrior of the West by M.K. Hume was really well written and thrilling, while the other half was slow plod. If you are really interested in a King Arthur themed book, look around, there are better options.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2024
Continuando com as aventuras, esse é um livro de ponte pra finalização da trilogia. Ele começa muito bem, em um ritmo acelerado, colocando o Grande Rei Arthur em uma batalha contra um lidar Saxão que feriu a honra do reino.
Importante ressaltar que doze anos se passaram desde os acontecimentos do livro 1. Os personagens envelheceram e o reino passou por um período de prosperidade e calmaria, com batalhas com certa frequência, mas não tão grandiosas, para afastar os Saxões de suas fronteiras.
Arthur já não é mais um jovem rei em certo ponto indeciso, inseguro, e demonstra ser um ótimo guerreiro estrategista.
Essa primeira parte do livro é muito boa e é o que de melhor acontece.
Na segunda metade, encontramos um Arthur que em nada se parece com a figura honrada e cavalheiresca que conhecemos de outras histórias que foram contadas sobre essa lenda. Ele passa a ser um homem frio, solitário, duro e que pode usar seus súditos da forma que lhe convir para assegurar a paz e a continuidade do reino.
Entra em cena mais personagens femininas. Sendo uma delas, Nimue, fantástica e a outra, Wenhaver, muito chata. E ambas acabam envolvidas, juntamente com o Grande Rei e outros guerreiros, em tramas palacianas que mudam muito a cara e o tom da história.
O nível cai bastante. Mas de ponto positivo é a imprevisibilidade dos fatos, diferente do que ocorreu no primeiro volume da série. Mas é uma leve melhora se comparado com o seu antecessor.
Importante ressaltar que doze anos se passaram desde os acontecimentos do livro 1. Os personagens envelheceram e o reino passou por um período de prosperidade e calmaria, com batalhas com certa frequência, mas não tão grandiosas, para afastar os Saxões de suas fronteiras.
Arthur já não é mais um jovem rei em certo ponto indeciso, inseguro, e demonstra ser um ótimo guerreiro estrategista.
Essa primeira parte do livro é muito boa e é o que de melhor acontece.
Na segunda metade, encontramos um Arthur que em nada se parece com a figura honrada e cavalheiresca que conhecemos de outras histórias que foram contadas sobre essa lenda. Ele passa a ser um homem frio, solitário, duro e que pode usar seus súditos da forma que lhe convir para assegurar a paz e a continuidade do reino.
Entra em cena mais personagens femininas. Sendo uma delas, Nimue, fantástica e a outra, Wenhaver, muito chata. E ambas acabam envolvidas, juntamente com o Grande Rei e outros guerreiros, em tramas palacianas que mudam muito a cara e o tom da história.
O nível cai bastante. Mas de ponto positivo é a imprevisibilidade dos fatos, diferente do que ocorreu no primeiro volume da série. Mas é uma leve melhora se comparado com o seu antecessor.
July 11, 2018
No need to repeat the cover notes or synopsis which most reviewers seem to think necessary. It's already up there top of the page.
Fabulous work, second book in the Trilogy.
Author is clearly an authority having studied Arthurian history. Believable characters throughout and most interestingly the Roman names and words are used in the work. And a work it is, it's not a lightweight little story quickly thought up, penned, published and out to the shelves.
It must have taken years to study and hone these storytelling skills.
This would be my introduction to an appreciation of all three books in this trilogy, which I have now finished and on to The Last Dragon, which in the modern terminology is 'prequel'.
Congratulations, M. K. Hume, on your fine talents, work, efforts, and all those who helped in the publication of your works, to be celebrated.
Thankyou for all the entertainment.
There are no 'criminal repurcussions' here, and I would add : 'More please'
Fabulous work, second book in the Trilogy.
Author is clearly an authority having studied Arthurian history. Believable characters throughout and most interestingly the Roman names and words are used in the work. And a work it is, it's not a lightweight little story quickly thought up, penned, published and out to the shelves.
It must have taken years to study and hone these storytelling skills.
This would be my introduction to an appreciation of all three books in this trilogy, which I have now finished and on to The Last Dragon, which in the modern terminology is 'prequel'.
Congratulations, M. K. Hume, on your fine talents, work, efforts, and all those who helped in the publication of your works, to be celebrated.
Thankyou for all the entertainment.
There are no 'criminal repurcussions' here, and I would add : 'More please'
September 15, 2018
When it comes to the subject of Arthur, King of the Britons, I either give it an automatic 5 stars for the mere presence of my favorite fictional legend, or I give it a single star for spitting all over the legend (Generally reserved for anti-Arthur books that are being contrary for the sake of contrary). That said, this trilogy (and the prequel trilogy) is probably the best interpretation of the Arthurian mythos that I have ever read.
For the most part, people's favorites tend to depend on your own version of the legend, and Hume's vision for King Arthur and his knights is very close to my own. Hume has done her research, yet still plays fast and loose with Saxon history. The characters are well-drawn, it's well paced, and battle scenes are riveting. The best versions of King Arthur are perfect balancing acts of action, melodrama, genuine heroism, and tragedy, and this book hit every note.
For the most part, people's favorites tend to depend on your own version of the legend, and Hume's vision for King Arthur and his knights is very close to my own. Hume has done her research, yet still plays fast and loose with Saxon history. The characters are well-drawn, it's well paced, and battle scenes are riveting. The best versions of King Arthur are perfect balancing acts of action, melodrama, genuine heroism, and tragedy, and this book hit every note.
April 16, 2019
I find it strange that the author who is supposed to have studied Arthurian times and is a historian, has built a storyline around Arthur fighting about 900 Saxon warriors who are based in Carmarthen in West Wales in what is supposed to be a sort of battle of badon ! What rubbish. I can't think of anything more ridiculous. The truth is the part of Britain that is now Wales comprised British tribes who fought against the Saxons. The Saxons did not base themselves in Carmarthen near the West Wales coast. She has tried to make it semi historical and it is quite enjoyable but having a major battle with Saxons residing in Carmarthen is so unbelievable that the book has lost all credibility. I do not recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2021
It's very hard to fault these tellings of Arthurian legend. I've read several authors renditions and watched every movie I could find but this particular series really feels believable. It keeps fantasy on the minimal side and focuses on humans; our vices, our woes, our triumphs etc. Despite having many visual representations of Arthur through popular culture and series, this is my Arthur. His constant stubbornness to do the right thing is admirable and I just hope he stays true to himself in the final book...
March 12, 2025
This was book two in the Trilogy.. and so far as an Arthurian series goes the best I've read....and I've read them all ....Highly addictive writing with so much emphasis on character development and plot firing the imagination .The author never shys away from the brutal times these people lived and died in which gives the novel so much more realism than similar books.
Highly recommended....can't wait to start book 3.
Highly recommended....can't wait to start book 3.
February 2, 2021
I like better the Dragon’s Child. There was a point of the story where I lose interest. Nevertheless if you like the Dragon’s Child you should read Warrior of the West to complete the trilogy and judge for yourself
December 3, 2022
King Arthur worrier of the west 2
Second book in this fascinating trilogy following King Arthur though life’s battles keeping Britton safe from the Saxons and his personal life’s challenges, brilliant
Second book in this fascinating trilogy following King Arthur though life’s battles keeping Britton safe from the Saxons and his personal life’s challenges, brilliant
November 19, 2023
much of the the warring is done; bring on the romance!
I love the story, but the first half of ‘Warrior of the West’ is less fun than Volume 1; , second half brings back the passion and pace, so as an avid reader, I love that!
I love the story, but the first half of ‘Warrior of the West’ is less fun than Volume 1; , second half brings back the passion and pace, so as an avid reader, I love that!
April 13, 2024
La historia continua en esta segunda parte de la trilogía, me atrapa la forma de escribir de la autora con todos sus detalles. Triste final para Artorex que cada vez se queda más sólo pero un final feliz para Myrddion y Niniana. Sin duda leeré la 3ra parte.
February 16, 2018
Caius you wronging. From the start of the first book when he was talking down to Artor and then knocking his wife around. And that Queen of his, harlot is the best description of her.
March 19, 2018
This book couldn’t seem to decide what it wanted to be.
May 16, 2020
Me gustó bastante, aunque el final sentí algo de lástima por el rey Arturo, pese a tenerlo todo al final del día se encuentra solo.
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