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The Saxon Warrior #4
Sword of Vengeance
Pre-order the brand new instalment in Peter Gibbons' thrilling Saxon Warrior Series! In the aftermath of the great battle of Maldon, justice is demanded and vengeance will be served! 992AD
King Aethelred’s the Unready’s army has been defeated at the historic Battle of Maldon by Viking invaders led by Olaf Tryggvason and King Sweyn Forkbeard.
The strategic turning point of the battle was when Godric, an East Saxon Thegn, fled the battlefield taking with him the Saxon army, leaving behind his brothers to be massacred in a welter of blood and Norse axe blades.
Saxon warrior Beornoth emerges from the ashes of defeat with his heart aflame with vengeance and when King Aethelred sends for Beornoth with orders to punish those traitors responsible for the crushing defeat, he heeds the king’s call.
With a small band of loyal warriors, Beornoth embarks on an unforgiving journey across the perilous landscape to seek out Godric and exact his bloody revenge. They must fight their way through a world teeming with political intrigue, shifting alliances and the ever-present threat of the Vikings. Can Beornoth triumph over insurmountable odds in this pulse pounding quest for retribution?
If you enjoyed The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell, you'll love Beornoth’s Quest for Vengeance!
Praise for the
'Epic, brutal action, a flawed hero defending his people while fighting his own demons, implacable ruthless invaders, treacherous nobles, Warrior and Protector has them all'- Matthew Harffy
'Bloody and brutal, everything you want from a novel about 10th century England. Peter's vivid writing really brings the story to life.' - Donovan Cook
'A superbly atmospheric tale of redemption that pitches the English against Viking raiders and resounds with the fierceness of battle-hardened warriors' - MJ Porter
'Thunderously atmospheric! Gibbons once again proves himself a master of Viking & Dark Age lore.' - Gordon Doherty
'Absolutely cracking. The best Viking saga I've read in years. A joy to pick up again.' - Ross Greenwood
King Aethelred’s the Unready’s army has been defeated at the historic Battle of Maldon by Viking invaders led by Olaf Tryggvason and King Sweyn Forkbeard.
The strategic turning point of the battle was when Godric, an East Saxon Thegn, fled the battlefield taking with him the Saxon army, leaving behind his brothers to be massacred in a welter of blood and Norse axe blades.
Saxon warrior Beornoth emerges from the ashes of defeat with his heart aflame with vengeance and when King Aethelred sends for Beornoth with orders to punish those traitors responsible for the crushing defeat, he heeds the king’s call.
With a small band of loyal warriors, Beornoth embarks on an unforgiving journey across the perilous landscape to seek out Godric and exact his bloody revenge. They must fight their way through a world teeming with political intrigue, shifting alliances and the ever-present threat of the Vikings. Can Beornoth triumph over insurmountable odds in this pulse pounding quest for retribution?
If you enjoyed The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell, you'll love Beornoth’s Quest for Vengeance!
Praise for the
'Epic, brutal action, a flawed hero defending his people while fighting his own demons, implacable ruthless invaders, treacherous nobles, Warrior and Protector has them all'- Matthew Harffy
'Bloody and brutal, everything you want from a novel about 10th century England. Peter's vivid writing really brings the story to life.' - Donovan Cook
'A superbly atmospheric tale of redemption that pitches the English against Viking raiders and resounds with the fierceness of battle-hardened warriors' - MJ Porter
'Thunderously atmospheric! Gibbons once again proves himself a master of Viking & Dark Age lore.' - Gordon Doherty
'Absolutely cracking. The best Viking saga I've read in years. A joy to pick up again.' - Ross Greenwood
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2024
330 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
Peter Gibbons
42 books282 followersI am an author based in Kildare in Ireland, with a passion for Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Science Fiction, and of course writing! My books include the Viking Blood and Blade Saga and the Saxon Warrior Series. You can visit my own website at www.petermgibbons.com or find me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Peter-Gibbon...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 15, 2024
A great historical series!!!!
A man of pride, a man of honor, a man of braver. A man who is a brother to the sword, a brother of the shield wall, a brother who will bleed with you, a brother who will be there till the end. A man who loves,a man who will cry to all he has lost. A man who will bring VENGEANCE to those who are cowards. Beornoth is that man standing tall an proud who will honor the oath.
A man of pride, a man of honor, a man of braver. A man who is a brother to the sword, a brother of the shield wall, a brother who will bleed with you, a brother who will be there till the end. A man who loves,a man who will cry to all he has lost. A man who will bring VENGEANCE to those who are cowards. Beornoth is that man standing tall an proud who will honor the oath.
March 3, 2024
Finished this today despite being very unwell. That says something, yes? 5⭐️
April 27, 2024
Great book. As always, I love the details of thought and the battle gore.
April 4, 2025
The battle of Muldrin is over, Beornath is spent and all he wants to do is just find his wife and he’s even thinking of giving up the life of a warrior but when the king makes him a Fin which is the equivalent of a royal warrior he really feels ambivalent about it. When Rogers tries to convince him to get the revenge Godrick so obviously deserves he is again hesitant. They have burned down his hall scarred the land he ruled and loved and he himself is emotionally and physically scarred but when it all comes down to it Beornath is a warrior and in the end he wants his friends that were killed because of Godrick‘s backstabbing to get the justice they deserve and for Godrick to get the punishment he does. What can I say this is another action filled story about my favorite warrior Beornath and it is another awesome book! I felt so bad at the end of the last book and loved the end of this one these books are full of battles great storylines awesome brotherhood‘s and what can I say if you love medieval warrior stories then you’ll definitely love this one it can be read as a standalone but to get the fuller picture it is best to read the whole series. These books are so good I absolutely love them and definitely recommend them. I want to thank Boldwood books and net galley for my free arc copy. please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
February 4, 2024
Following the events of book 3 we pick up in the aftermath of the bloody Battle of Maldon.
Beornoth is in a bad way and Brand must do everything he can to keep him alive.
I felt this was a very poignant and pivotal start to the story as Brand must face loss, the battle was brutal and it plays heavy on the mans heart. It’s moving but also shows the characters strength as he battles on despite the hurt he will be feeling. This depth really made the beginning on the book scream out to me and I felt myself re-reading sentences just to really take in the emotion, to give it justice..just beautifully written guttural strength and determination.
Beornoth survives but it’s touch a go really.. you always hoped he would but nothing lasts forever.
God that man deserves a rest but do you think he’s going to get one? No chance.
We see the true politics of war play out.. it’s time to decide if the fight is to continue or do they sacrifice their pride and pay the enemy to leave their shores…There’s always going to be the danger that they will return even if they do leave.
We continue to see the real depth of emotion infused by the author as we see Beornoth and his wife battle their inner demons.. they have to confront the past, his wife’s pain stems from being brutally assaulted and ended with the death of those closest to them.. it’s a wound that runs deep for both of them and Beornoth can’t see any way to seal the hole the loss has created.
The latest battle really does seem to be a pivotal moment in their relationship as retribution plays on both their minds heavily… but Beornoth is honour bound..can he do what’s needed to please all?
To forge for peace or to fight.. there’s no easy choice but what the author did so well was really set the scene.. the characters.. it’s emotive and you can’t help feel for them and it really does make you see how lucky we are… but what would you do if someone murdered your children.. took the light from your wife’s eyes.. it’s a real emotional roller-coaster.
For the gore fans there’s plenty of action to keep the blood pumping for sure but it’s so much more than you’d expect and the author continues to infuse the historical detail with a gripping, gut-wrenching plot as Beornoth sets out to bring the cowards and traitors from the battle to justice. It really puts the time period into perspective and you really feel for the innocents caught up in the mess..
Pace is something I always like to talk about but this time there’s nothing I can say.. I didn’t even notice the chapter length..the details were a blur as I was so engrossed with the plot itself. A pure joy to read.
Boldwood and Peter Gibbons are a match made in heaven.
Beornoth is in a bad way and Brand must do everything he can to keep him alive.
I felt this was a very poignant and pivotal start to the story as Brand must face loss, the battle was brutal and it plays heavy on the mans heart. It’s moving but also shows the characters strength as he battles on despite the hurt he will be feeling. This depth really made the beginning on the book scream out to me and I felt myself re-reading sentences just to really take in the emotion, to give it justice..just beautifully written guttural strength and determination.
Beornoth survives but it’s touch a go really.. you always hoped he would but nothing lasts forever.
God that man deserves a rest but do you think he’s going to get one? No chance.
We see the true politics of war play out.. it’s time to decide if the fight is to continue or do they sacrifice their pride and pay the enemy to leave their shores…There’s always going to be the danger that they will return even if they do leave.
We continue to see the real depth of emotion infused by the author as we see Beornoth and his wife battle their inner demons.. they have to confront the past, his wife’s pain stems from being brutally assaulted and ended with the death of those closest to them.. it’s a wound that runs deep for both of them and Beornoth can’t see any way to seal the hole the loss has created.
The latest battle really does seem to be a pivotal moment in their relationship as retribution plays on both their minds heavily… but Beornoth is honour bound..can he do what’s needed to please all?
To forge for peace or to fight.. there’s no easy choice but what the author did so well was really set the scene.. the characters.. it’s emotive and you can’t help feel for them and it really does make you see how lucky we are… but what would you do if someone murdered your children.. took the light from your wife’s eyes.. it’s a real emotional roller-coaster.
For the gore fans there’s plenty of action to keep the blood pumping for sure but it’s so much more than you’d expect and the author continues to infuse the historical detail with a gripping, gut-wrenching plot as Beornoth sets out to bring the cowards and traitors from the battle to justice. It really puts the time period into perspective and you really feel for the innocents caught up in the mess..
Pace is something I always like to talk about but this time there’s nothing I can say.. I didn’t even notice the chapter length..the details were a blur as I was so engrossed with the plot itself. A pure joy to read.
Boldwood and Peter Gibbons are a match made in heaven.
February 8, 2024
In the aftermath of the intense Battle of Maldon, the protagonist Beornoth is in dire straits, and Brand must exert every effort to ensure his survival. This poignant and pivotal start to the story delves into loss and the brutal aftermath of the battle, showcasing Brand's strength as he persists despite the emotional toll. The author skillfully infuses guttural strength and determination, making the opening of the book deeply emotional and captivating.
While Beornoth manages to survive, the outcome hangs in the balance, leaving readers hopeful yet uncertain. The narrative unveils the harsh realities of war politics, forcing characters to decide whether to continue the fight or compromise their pride by paying off the enemy. The emotional depth intensifies as Beornoth and his wife confront their inner demons, grappling with the aftermath of brutal assault and loss.
The latest battle becomes a pivotal moment in their relationship, as retribution weighs heavily on their minds, testing Beornoth's commitment to honor. The author adeptly sets the scene, creating emotive characters and an immersive atmosphere that forces readers to empathize with the struggles. The narrative explores the challenging choices faced by characters dealing with unimaginable loss, evoking a real emotional roller-coaster.
For those who enjoy gore, the book offers ample action, but it transcends expectations by seamlessly blending historical detail with a gripping, gut-wrenching plot. Beornoth's pursuit of justice against the cowards and traitors from the battle adds a layer of complexity, putting the time period into perspective and highlighting the plight of the innocents caught in the chaos.
In terms of pace, the story engrosses the reader to the point where chapter lengths and details become inconspicuous. A truly enjoyable and immersive read that seamlessly combines historical elements with a captivating plot.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Storied Conversation
While Beornoth manages to survive, the outcome hangs in the balance, leaving readers hopeful yet uncertain. The narrative unveils the harsh realities of war politics, forcing characters to decide whether to continue the fight or compromise their pride by paying off the enemy. The emotional depth intensifies as Beornoth and his wife confront their inner demons, grappling with the aftermath of brutal assault and loss.
The latest battle becomes a pivotal moment in their relationship, as retribution weighs heavily on their minds, testing Beornoth's commitment to honor. The author adeptly sets the scene, creating emotive characters and an immersive atmosphere that forces readers to empathize with the struggles. The narrative explores the challenging choices faced by characters dealing with unimaginable loss, evoking a real emotional roller-coaster.
For those who enjoy gore, the book offers ample action, but it transcends expectations by seamlessly blending historical detail with a gripping, gut-wrenching plot. Beornoth's pursuit of justice against the cowards and traitors from the battle adds a layer of complexity, putting the time period into perspective and highlighting the plight of the innocents caught in the chaos.
In terms of pace, the story engrosses the reader to the point where chapter lengths and details become inconspicuous. A truly enjoyable and immersive read that seamlessly combines historical elements with a captivating plot.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Storied Conversation
May 2, 2024
Fans of epic historical fiction will be completely gripped by the latest novel by Peter Gibbons: Sword of Vengeance.
King Aethelred’s the Unready’s army had been defeated at the Battle of Maldon by Viking invaders and the monarch is now hungry for blood. Saxon warrior Bernoth might have been crushed by this loss, but he vows to make the traitors responsible for this colossal defeat pay for their cruel betrayal, so when Aethelred sends for him, he heeds the king’s call and vows to fight with all his might to emerge victorious this time around.
With a small yet mighty band of warriors, Bernoth embarks on an unforgettable journey across unforgiving landscapes to exact his revenge. Nobody is going to come between Bernoth and his desperate desire for victory. Bernoth is fully aware that he must be constantly on his guard, keep his eyes on the prize and remain focused throughout because one false move or one mistake and he loses everything.
The odds might be stacked against him, but will Bernoth manage to triumph over the plethora of obstacles standing in his way? Or will this be the last battle he will ever fight?
Peter Gibbons’ Sword of Vengeance is a bold, bloody and wholly engrossing historical novel that transports readers into a world of political intrigue, nefarious schemes and devastating conflict. Atmospheric, enthralling and hugely entertaining. Sword of Vengeance continues to cement Peter Gibbons’ standing as fast rising star of historical fiction.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
King Aethelred’s the Unready’s army had been defeated at the Battle of Maldon by Viking invaders and the monarch is now hungry for blood. Saxon warrior Bernoth might have been crushed by this loss, but he vows to make the traitors responsible for this colossal defeat pay for their cruel betrayal, so when Aethelred sends for him, he heeds the king’s call and vows to fight with all his might to emerge victorious this time around.
With a small yet mighty band of warriors, Bernoth embarks on an unforgettable journey across unforgiving landscapes to exact his revenge. Nobody is going to come between Bernoth and his desperate desire for victory. Bernoth is fully aware that he must be constantly on his guard, keep his eyes on the prize and remain focused throughout because one false move or one mistake and he loses everything.
The odds might be stacked against him, but will Bernoth manage to triumph over the plethora of obstacles standing in his way? Or will this be the last battle he will ever fight?
Peter Gibbons’ Sword of Vengeance is a bold, bloody and wholly engrossing historical novel that transports readers into a world of political intrigue, nefarious schemes and devastating conflict. Atmospheric, enthralling and hugely entertaining. Sword of Vengeance continues to cement Peter Gibbons’ standing as fast rising star of historical fiction.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 14, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
I have yet to read a book from Peter Gibbons I have not absolutely loved. This book did not disappoint! The loss and sadness I felt from the loss of a favorite character was righted with this installment. This book was all about getting justice and revenge on all those who betrayed Beo and caused the death of my favorites. As soon as the book started I was instantly hooked and constantly on the edge of my seat. I was happy with the introduction of some new characters particularly Sefna. She reminds me so much of Lagertha and was an amazing shield maiden. The battle scenes are always my favorite because Gibbons has a talent for writing them in a way you can clearly envision every moment. I hope Beo's adventures continue because I'm not ready for them to end. I also hope Brand will make some appearances. I completely recommend this series for all those that love Vikings and Bernard Cornwell style of books.
I have yet to read a book from Peter Gibbons I have not absolutely loved. This book did not disappoint! The loss and sadness I felt from the loss of a favorite character was righted with this installment. This book was all about getting justice and revenge on all those who betrayed Beo and caused the death of my favorites. As soon as the book started I was instantly hooked and constantly on the edge of my seat. I was happy with the introduction of some new characters particularly Sefna. She reminds me so much of Lagertha and was an amazing shield maiden. The battle scenes are always my favorite because Gibbons has a talent for writing them in a way you can clearly envision every moment. I hope Beo's adventures continue because I'm not ready for them to end. I also hope Brand will make some appearances. I completely recommend this series for all those that love Vikings and Bernard Cornwell style of books.
November 13, 2025
This was the best of the series so far.
I felt books 2-3 could have been merged into a single book which would have been great as they both meandered a bit at times. This was a thrilling reset to Beonoth's tragic quest and took him to new depths of suffering and struggle.
The character motivations were deeper and relationships more interesting and I felt I cared more about them than the previous books - existing and new.
Vikings in fiction are hard to dislike at times so having pure villains definitely gave this book an emotional edge and I was biting my nails through the final act - (listening through audiobook).
But Peter... please give us a Brand spin off!!
I felt books 2-3 could have been merged into a single book which would have been great as they both meandered a bit at times. This was a thrilling reset to Beonoth's tragic quest and took him to new depths of suffering and struggle.
The character motivations were deeper and relationships more interesting and I felt I cared more about them than the previous books - existing and new.
Vikings in fiction are hard to dislike at times so having pure villains definitely gave this book an emotional edge and I was biting my nails through the final act - (listening through audiobook).
But Peter... please give us a Brand spin off!!
February 7, 2024
Brand fought to keep Beornoth alive and now Beornoth is on a quest for revenge but will Brand be able to continue to keep Beornoth safe? This is utterly atmospheric I could feel the tension in the atmosphere so much so that I wanted to hide under the covers while continuing to read as I couldn't take my eyes off the pages of the story. I really enjoyed reading about the blood thirsty hardcore battles and I loved that it was so descriptive. A story full of adventure, battle, revenge and the ride is very bumpy.
September 26, 2024
Revenge and Retribution
An extremely well researched series of novels depicting a time not many of us know about. Seen through the eyes of a warrior of the day, it shows a more human side to those who fight for those who can't. A warrior with flaws and guilt, but determined to protect others, he uses his vengeance to bring retribution to those who deserve it the most. Very compelling work.
An extremely well researched series of novels depicting a time not many of us know about. Seen through the eyes of a warrior of the day, it shows a more human side to those who fight for those who can't. A warrior with flaws and guilt, but determined to protect others, he uses his vengeance to bring retribution to those who deserve it the most. Very compelling work.
February 25, 2024
Awesome read.
I'm loving everything written by Peter Gibbons. Beornoth is a brilliant character and I find myself invested in all that he does. He's on the revenge trail and he's going to punish the men who ran at the battle of Maldon. If Beornoth was coming for me, I would emigrate as soon as I could. A flawed man and a vicious warrior. A superb read.
I'm loving everything written by Peter Gibbons. Beornoth is a brilliant character and I find myself invested in all that he does. He's on the revenge trail and he's going to punish the men who ran at the battle of Maldon. If Beornoth was coming for me, I would emigrate as soon as I could. A flawed man and a vicious warrior. A superb read.
March 16, 2024
Again with the “thought cage”!
The use of “thought cage” in referring to one’s mind or mental capacity was clever the first 50 times it was used, by dear Lord don’t you think it’s cheeky and churlish by know. It’s like using the word “slather” over and over. Woof. But great read! Love this guy.
The use of “thought cage” in referring to one’s mind or mental capacity was clever the first 50 times it was used, by dear Lord don’t you think it’s cheeky and churlish by know. It’s like using the word “slather” over and over. Woof. But great read! Love this guy.
June 15, 2024
It was a joy to reach the end of this novel, and not because it was engrossing to read. The storyline was very linear, the characters were two dimensional, and there was way too much repetition of actions. Taken as a whole the story telling just lacked spark and never seemed quite credible. Hoping that ny memory serves so that I can avoid the rest of the series when it is published.
June 20, 2024
What a great read!
The stories of Beornoth continue to entertain and amaze me. I can't recommend this series highly enough. As good as any historical fiction of Medieval England, and better than most. I'm so happy I found it, and its all but impossible to put down. Well done Peter Gibbons!
The stories of Beornoth continue to entertain and amaze me. I can't recommend this series highly enough. As good as any historical fiction of Medieval England, and better than most. I'm so happy I found it, and its all but impossible to put down. Well done Peter Gibbons!
February 13, 2024
Book 4 follows up after the Battle of Maldon(a real battle). Beornoth has been promoted thegn and must seek revenge for all the traitors at Maldon. I hope there is a fifth novel but I'm not sure if Beornoth can fight anymore with his abdominal wound.
March 11, 2024
I love the history of the dark ages!
I like the fact that Mr. Gibbons has spent so much time studying the period, that he can be so very, and wonderfully accurate. I is enthralling!!
I like the fact that Mr. Gibbons has spent so much time studying the period, that he can be so very, and wonderfully accurate. I is enthralling!!
June 30, 2024
Another excellent read
I love this series, it’s well written and researched and throughout the story, you can’t help but cheer for Beo.
This was a great addition to the series as we got to find out what happened to everyone after Maldon.
I love this series, it’s well written and researched and throughout the story, you can’t help but cheer for Beo.
This was a great addition to the series as we got to find out what happened to everyone after Maldon.
January 7, 2025
Action packed Saxon adventure.
An enthralling series keeping the reader engaged throughout. Saxon times and politics depicted , the horror of the shield wall. Complexity of friend and foe.
An enthralling series keeping the reader engaged throughout. Saxon times and politics depicted , the horror of the shield wall. Complexity of friend and foe.
February 18, 2025
Action Packed and A Fun Read
Peter Gibbons does it again with another amazing installment of The Saxon Warrior Series. Beornoth is out to avenge the deaths of comrades who were struck down at Maldon, and finds new friends along the way. Epic battles. Highly recommend.
Peter Gibbons does it again with another amazing installment of The Saxon Warrior Series. Beornoth is out to avenge the deaths of comrades who were struck down at Maldon, and finds new friends along the way. Epic battles. Highly recommend.
March 5, 2025
very well written
Really enjoyed the book. Very realistic and I felt I was part of the story! The characters were described well and of course the main character was portrayed very well and came across as an accidental hero:
Really enjoyed the book. Very realistic and I felt I was part of the story! The characters were described well and of course the main character was portrayed very well and came across as an accidental hero:
March 17, 2025
Ride with Beornoth across England in search of traitors!!
This Story is well written and paced. Come and be on Beornoth's shoulder as he hunts the King's enemies in 10th century England.
Enjoy the history and the action!!
This Story is well written and paced. Come and be on Beornoth's shoulder as he hunts the King's enemies in 10th century England.
Enjoy the history and the action!!
February 9, 2024
carries you along
Peter Gibbons is consistently well-paced, a fan of history, and adept at brightly drawn, complex characters. Good, solid historical fiction.
Peter Gibbons is consistently well-paced, a fan of history, and adept at brightly drawn, complex characters. Good, solid historical fiction.
February 12, 2024
brilliant!
Fantastic action packed book. Page turner. Could not put this book down. First class as usual. Thank you, looking forward to book five.
Fantastic action packed book. Page turner. Could not put this book down. First class as usual. Thank you, looking forward to book five.
Read
February 13, 2024Great Read. As always with Peter Gibbons this book is action packed and a complete page turner. Ready for more from this series.
February 25, 2024
Peter Gibbons is one of the best storytellers in the world.
March 25, 2024
A good read
May 17, 2024
Good tale
Hadn’t read Beo for sometime . Always good storytelling & does the characters justice . Be good to see the next stage of Bo’s far from peaceful life in Book 5
Hadn’t read Beo for sometime . Always good storytelling & does the characters justice . Be good to see the next stage of Bo’s far from peaceful life in Book 5
May 28, 2024
Sword of Vengeance- compelling read
Great novel set in real historical context. Easy to associate with the hero Beo. A compelling read which was hard to put down
Great novel set in real historical context. Easy to associate with the hero Beo. A compelling read which was hard to put down
July 2, 2024
Another good read by Peter gibbons. Tent century England struggles against Vikings and treachery.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews