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The Outlaw Chronicles #5
Grail Knight
In 1200 A.D., much in England has changed. Richard the Lionhearted has died and his duplicitous brother John has taken the throne. The Earl of Locksley has been outlawed by his old enemy, now the king, and Sir Alan Dale has had the estates granted to him by Richard I taken away again. But still Alan Dale lives comfortably with his beloved wife pregnant with their first child. But the good times aren't going to last.
First, an old crime resurfaces and powerful forces being circling, seeking vengeance, including a renegade band of Knights Templar. Next, Alan's wife falls gravely ill and the only thing that might have the power to save her is the most sacred object in all of Christendom: the Holy Grail. Now, with the Templars hounding them at every turn, Alan Dale and his Lord, Robin Earl of Locksley—Robin Hood—must chase down the grail, believed to be in the hands of one of their old enemies. Chasing all over England and France, Alan, Robin Hood, and their companions in their quest, must find and procure the Cup of Christ before time runs out and all hope is lost.
First, an old crime resurfaces and powerful forces being circling, seeking vengeance, including a renegade band of Knights Templar. Next, Alan's wife falls gravely ill and the only thing that might have the power to save her is the most sacred object in all of Christendom: the Holy Grail. Now, with the Templars hounding them at every turn, Alan Dale and his Lord, Robin Earl of Locksley—Robin Hood—must chase down the grail, believed to be in the hands of one of their old enemies. Chasing all over England and France, Alan, Robin Hood, and their companions in their quest, must find and procure the Cup of Christ before time runs out and all hope is lost.
432 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 2013
37 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
April 30, 2021
The third in the series that never loses momentum
This one sees Alan Dale face off against his nemesis Ralph de Murdac the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, Rescue King Richard from his prison in Germany. I liked the way Alan Dale is identified here as Blondel, the troubadour who helped rescue Richard.
Lots of intrigue and suspense as Alan is seen as betraying Robin Hood but its all part of a ruse.
this robin hood is not do gooder in green, and couldn't care less about the poor, he is ruthless and self-serving but cares about his own inner circle and 'family'. The return of the hideously disfigured and now evil and psychotic Nur, is like something out of a horror novel.the strong and beautiful woman of the novel is Alan's love of his life and wife to be, Goody.
Highly recommended , a real historical thriller, captures the sounds, sights and smells of 12the century England.
thrilling and gruesome battle scenes.
This one sees Alan Dale face off against his nemesis Ralph de Murdac the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, Rescue King Richard from his prison in Germany. I liked the way Alan Dale is identified here as Blondel, the troubadour who helped rescue Richard.
Lots of intrigue and suspense as Alan is seen as betraying Robin Hood but its all part of a ruse.
this robin hood is not do gooder in green, and couldn't care less about the poor, he is ruthless and self-serving but cares about his own inner circle and 'family'. The return of the hideously disfigured and now evil and psychotic Nur, is like something out of a horror novel.the strong and beautiful woman of the novel is Alan's love of his life and wife to be, Goody.
Highly recommended , a real historical thriller, captures the sounds, sights and smells of 12the century England.
thrilling and gruesome battle scenes.
May 2, 2023
With the Lionheart dead, his protector gone, the Earl of Loxley is now known more famously by his nom de guerre “Robin Hood”, as Prince John, now King, has made him an enemy of the realm.
Alan Dale is not officially part of the outlaw gang & still resides at Westbury, although it’s his only residence as the crown has confiscated his many other estates and subsequent incomes….
It’s not long before the two are reacquainted & our tale begins which involves names from past adventures namely a Jewish Goldsmith who had escaped the atrocities at York who seeks Robin’s help but….. all is not as it seems as an old nemesis (From France) is lurking in the background, plus we have the ongoing conflict with the Templars who confront Alan for a crime he did not commit. Nur is also never to far from the plot, merely a mention of her name has everyone’s guard up in the Dale household!
Grand adventures abound, mostly of the violent type where retribution & justice is metered out in similar measure, often overlapping in Robin Hood’s eyes who’s not the “nice” man that legend sells.
And jus when you thought everything had worked out for the good…….. calamity!
And then the real adventure begins, that of the title, a quest for the Grail with the “merry men” of Sherwood Forest & to finally vanquish their foe, “The master”…. It’s off to France we go in Part two.
The story has us tracking down the Master & his cohorts, searching for the Holy Grail of legend, meeting old friends (and new) along the way, as well as a few enemies, nothing is quite as it seems though & we have (quite) a few twists & much blood letting during our quest, never a dull chapter, always summit new to entertain.
Don’t get too attached to anyone is all I’ll say 😊
Very enjoyable series, 4.5 stars for this episode rounded to a four.
Pluck up thy Battle-axe & string thy war bow for thou shalt need both on thine quest, mount up bold Knight & away with thee to find the Grail!
Alan Dale is not officially part of the outlaw gang & still resides at Westbury, although it’s his only residence as the crown has confiscated his many other estates and subsequent incomes….
It’s not long before the two are reacquainted & our tale begins which involves names from past adventures namely a Jewish Goldsmith who had escaped the atrocities at York who seeks Robin’s help but….. all is not as it seems as an old nemesis (From France) is lurking in the background, plus we have the ongoing conflict with the Templars who confront Alan for a crime he did not commit. Nur is also never to far from the plot, merely a mention of her name has everyone’s guard up in the Dale household!
Grand adventures abound, mostly of the violent type where retribution & justice is metered out in similar measure, often overlapping in Robin Hood’s eyes who’s not the “nice” man that legend sells.
And jus when you thought everything had worked out for the good…….. calamity!
And then the real adventure begins, that of the title, a quest for the Grail with the “merry men” of Sherwood Forest & to finally vanquish their foe, “The master”…. It’s off to France we go in Part two.
The story has us tracking down the Master & his cohorts, searching for the Holy Grail of legend, meeting old friends (and new) along the way, as well as a few enemies, nothing is quite as it seems though & we have (quite) a few twists & much blood letting during our quest, never a dull chapter, always summit new to entertain.
Don’t get too attached to anyone is all I’ll say 😊
Very enjoyable series, 4.5 stars for this episode rounded to a four.
Pluck up thy Battle-axe & string thy war bow for thou shalt need both on thine quest, mount up bold Knight & away with thee to find the Grail!
August 1, 2013
One of the highlights of my year is the new Angus Donald novel, but this new book was slightly more anticipated than usual. You see, while I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all Angus’ books, I have noted the opposite of what they used to say about the Star Trek Movies (the even movies were the better ones). While I thoroughly enjoyed Holy Warrior (2) and Warlord (4), it was Outlaw (1) and King’s Man (3) that were outstanding in the series and eclipsed many other great reads of the time. So would book 5 continue this trend?
Simply, yes. Grail Knight may well be the best of the five and, even if not, it is on a par with the outstanding King’s Man, which is about the highest praise to give anyway.
Why is it a win? Well to start with, Angus has consistently managed to take Robin Hood (one of the most clichéd subjects in history) and write a series about him that repeatedly side-steps cliché and delivers fresh, engaging and fascinating tales that do not irritate in the way Robin Hood could so easily do (ahem, Ridley Scott!) That in itself is a feat. But this tale is also about the Holy Grail. No it’s not a spoiler. Even if you didn’t realise from the title (giveaway #1) the lead-up in book 4 made it obvious this was going to happen. And if there’s anything that delivers more cliché and general awfulness than Robin Hood as a subject, it is the Holy Grail. And yet in this book, Angus has managed to avoid cliché and awfulness very neatly. The result is that, in a book about two things that are a minefield of cheese, Angus has created a gem of a tale that delivers shock, joy, fascination and sheer power. Kudos.
The tale delves deeper into the awful and mysterious ‘Master’ and his secretive order within the Knights Templar. It portrays the Templars in an unusual light, making them bad guys, dubious and selfish, harsh and outside the law, while not accusing them of heresy and demon worship as seems to be the norm for writers these days. (Minor spoiler coming here:) The quest for the grail leads Alan from his home in Westbury, alongside his liege lord Robin, leaving a ruined home and a dying love to search for the one thing that can save her. It leads us to Cathar country in south west France and explores that beautiful world, centring on somewhere I have always wanted to visit. The plot never falters, hurtling along at pace, ever goading the reader to ‘just a few more pages’. The plot is neatly constructed and leaves no loose ends, in fact tying up a number of frayed threads from the previous books!
Probably the biggest win for this book with me, though, is the cast. As well as the essentials, a number of old friends return, including one of my faves – Sir Nicholas de Scras. And… Nur. You see I had become rather irritated with the witch woman in the previous books and had even gone as far as to grumble about her on Twitter at Angus! And yet she returns in Grail Knight to take her place in the cast and does so in such a well-crafted way that I thoroughly enjoyed it and found that I was appreciating her part as much as any other.
The book is happy and sad, full of subterfuge and open action, tense and calming, magical and spiritual and practical. It has everything you might expect from one of Angus’ books, but in spades.
Be prepared to put aside all your other hobbies and much sleep (I read 80 pages in the middle of the night yesterday) and enjoy a book every bit as good as King’s Man. Fans will not be disappointed and, if you haven’t read Angus’ other books, I would recommend them as always, but now with 25% more voracity!
Oh and the ending? Masterful. Simply masterful.
I sent the author a message when I had almost finished it, calling Grail Knight a Tour De Force and that is what it is.
Simply, yes. Grail Knight may well be the best of the five and, even if not, it is on a par with the outstanding King’s Man, which is about the highest praise to give anyway.
Why is it a win? Well to start with, Angus has consistently managed to take Robin Hood (one of the most clichéd subjects in history) and write a series about him that repeatedly side-steps cliché and delivers fresh, engaging and fascinating tales that do not irritate in the way Robin Hood could so easily do (ahem, Ridley Scott!) That in itself is a feat. But this tale is also about the Holy Grail. No it’s not a spoiler. Even if you didn’t realise from the title (giveaway #1) the lead-up in book 4 made it obvious this was going to happen. And if there’s anything that delivers more cliché and general awfulness than Robin Hood as a subject, it is the Holy Grail. And yet in this book, Angus has managed to avoid cliché and awfulness very neatly. The result is that, in a book about two things that are a minefield of cheese, Angus has created a gem of a tale that delivers shock, joy, fascination and sheer power. Kudos.
The tale delves deeper into the awful and mysterious ‘Master’ and his secretive order within the Knights Templar. It portrays the Templars in an unusual light, making them bad guys, dubious and selfish, harsh and outside the law, while not accusing them of heresy and demon worship as seems to be the norm for writers these days. (Minor spoiler coming here:) The quest for the grail leads Alan from his home in Westbury, alongside his liege lord Robin, leaving a ruined home and a dying love to search for the one thing that can save her. It leads us to Cathar country in south west France and explores that beautiful world, centring on somewhere I have always wanted to visit. The plot never falters, hurtling along at pace, ever goading the reader to ‘just a few more pages’. The plot is neatly constructed and leaves no loose ends, in fact tying up a number of frayed threads from the previous books!
Probably the biggest win for this book with me, though, is the cast. As well as the essentials, a number of old friends return, including one of my faves – Sir Nicholas de Scras. And… Nur. You see I had become rather irritated with the witch woman in the previous books and had even gone as far as to grumble about her on Twitter at Angus! And yet she returns in Grail Knight to take her place in the cast and does so in such a well-crafted way that I thoroughly enjoyed it and found that I was appreciating her part as much as any other.
The book is happy and sad, full of subterfuge and open action, tense and calming, magical and spiritual and practical. It has everything you might expect from one of Angus’ books, but in spades.
Be prepared to put aside all your other hobbies and much sleep (I read 80 pages in the middle of the night yesterday) and enjoy a book every bit as good as King’s Man. Fans will not be disappointed and, if you haven’t read Angus’ other books, I would recommend them as always, but now with 25% more voracity!
Oh and the ending? Masterful. Simply masterful.
I sent the author a message when I had almost finished it, calling Grail Knight a Tour De Force and that is what it is.
September 29, 2013
Better than Bernard Cornwell. Yes, really.
Having started using Goodreads regularly, I have noticed that I am very lucky in that I seem to only read books that I like. I suppose that is because the bad ones are so easily forgotten. However, this one will not be.
Having finished it on the day it was published is quite good I think, and that was mostly due to it becoming increasingly compelling the further you get into it. Here I have to admit that I have only read one other in this series, the first, but as a stand alone read, there were no issues at all. Reminders of what happened in previous books were unobtrusive and felt natural and did not jar as they can do ('Sharpe' novels for instance) and allowed the flow of consciousness to continue unhindered. And that brings me to another point - Angus Donald has grown as a writer and in confidence with his art and it was a real pleasure to read.
I know a little about the author from social media and I felt he was drawing on more of his own experience for some of this story making it more real and natural. And there are a few personal points included in it quite by chance that mean nothing to anyone other than me which will make me return to this particular novel again and again.
The story itself draws on the legend of the holy grail and man's quest to own it and the shocking price to pay for being involved with it, rather reminiscent of the Indiana Jones film. The irreverent character of Robin Hood saves the day, not without some casualties, and touches of ruthlessness shown towards the reader.
All in all a great, fun read with plenty of action and emotion, twists and turns, lovable characters, hateful characters, and the darling Tronc. More of him please, in the next one!
Having started using Goodreads regularly, I have noticed that I am very lucky in that I seem to only read books that I like. I suppose that is because the bad ones are so easily forgotten. However, this one will not be.
Having finished it on the day it was published is quite good I think, and that was mostly due to it becoming increasingly compelling the further you get into it. Here I have to admit that I have only read one other in this series, the first, but as a stand alone read, there were no issues at all. Reminders of what happened in previous books were unobtrusive and felt natural and did not jar as they can do ('Sharpe' novels for instance) and allowed the flow of consciousness to continue unhindered. And that brings me to another point - Angus Donald has grown as a writer and in confidence with his art and it was a real pleasure to read.
I know a little about the author from social media and I felt he was drawing on more of his own experience for some of this story making it more real and natural. And there are a few personal points included in it quite by chance that mean nothing to anyone other than me which will make me return to this particular novel again and again.
The story itself draws on the legend of the holy grail and man's quest to own it and the shocking price to pay for being involved with it, rather reminiscent of the Indiana Jones film. The irreverent character of Robin Hood saves the day, not without some casualties, and touches of ruthlessness shown towards the reader.
All in all a great, fun read with plenty of action and emotion, twists and turns, lovable characters, hateful characters, and the darling Tronc. More of him please, in the next one!
May 9, 2023
This is my favourite book in the series so far.
I really appreciate how much of a voice, Alan now has. He knows his own worth and is no longer blindly tied to Robin. He has his own family and fortunes to consider and that makes the peril and consequences hold so much more weight.
I enjoyed the secondary characters much more in this book and it feels like, we are finally seeing Alan's companions have their own personalities and side stories.
Robin is a super complex character and I enjoy the way author leaves you in a position, where you are not entirely sure if you like Robin.
I really appreciate how much of a voice, Alan now has. He knows his own worth and is no longer blindly tied to Robin. He has his own family and fortunes to consider and that makes the peril and consequences hold so much more weight.
I enjoyed the secondary characters much more in this book and it feels like, we are finally seeing Alan's companions have their own personalities and side stories.
Robin is a super complex character and I enjoy the way author leaves you in a position, where you are not entirely sure if you like Robin.
October 28, 2018
I have been steamrolling my way through this series since the summer, courtesy of Audible. Each time I finish one, I wonder just why it took me so long to take the plunge. For years I had been told that this was one of the best historical fiction series out there, but always I doubted it. Robin Hood, really? A longbow, green tights, a band of merry men dancing round a fire singing songs, robbing from the rich and giving to the poor - I'll leave that, thanks.
My pre-conceptions could not have been more wrong. This series is staggering, avoids all cliché's and delivers with every single book. I was a bit concerned that it could not possibly live up to King's Man which really was incredible, and in some ways this one does not quite hit those heights, though it is still an incredible read.
The basis of this book alters slightly from the last couple. The Lionheart is dead, his brother John on England's throne and Robert Oddo is once more an Outlaw. Angus skilfully brings back characters from pervious book as old nemesis' are once more brought to the fore as the outlawed Earl of Loxley persuades our narrator Alan Dale to go on a quest to find the Holy Grail and finally rid themselves of 'The Master', a man who would see them both in their graves.
Alan's wife Goodie lies on her deathbed, he is sure it is the result of a curse laid upon her from Alan's old lover, a witch called Nur. Nur will accompany the seven Knights of the Grail as they journey through France and do battle with The Master and his Knights. In a whirlwind of emotion we see beloved characters taken to their maker before their time, and the ending....WOW!
Needless to say I have already made a start on book six, The Iron Castle, which after just an hours listening has me hooked. I'm very concerned at what my life will become when I finish this marvellous series, as I'm not ready for my journey with Sir Alan Dale to come to an end!
My pre-conceptions could not have been more wrong. This series is staggering, avoids all cliché's and delivers with every single book. I was a bit concerned that it could not possibly live up to King's Man which really was incredible, and in some ways this one does not quite hit those heights, though it is still an incredible read.
The basis of this book alters slightly from the last couple. The Lionheart is dead, his brother John on England's throne and Robert Oddo is once more an Outlaw. Angus skilfully brings back characters from pervious book as old nemesis' are once more brought to the fore as the outlawed Earl of Loxley persuades our narrator Alan Dale to go on a quest to find the Holy Grail and finally rid themselves of 'The Master', a man who would see them both in their graves.
Alan's wife Goodie lies on her deathbed, he is sure it is the result of a curse laid upon her from Alan's old lover, a witch called Nur. Nur will accompany the seven Knights of the Grail as they journey through France and do battle with The Master and his Knights. In a whirlwind of emotion we see beloved characters taken to their maker before their time, and the ending....WOW!
Needless to say I have already made a start on book six, The Iron Castle, which after just an hours listening has me hooked. I'm very concerned at what my life will become when I finish this marvellous series, as I'm not ready for my journey with Sir Alan Dale to come to an end!
June 18, 2018
Actual rating: 4.50
August 5, 2013
Angus Donalds Robin Hood outlaw chronicles is quality work,and part 5 Grail Knight adds another epic chapter to the saga of Robin Hood narrated by Alan a Dale in the series `old man by the fire format' Part 4, Warlord ended with King Richard the Lionheart dead, and the nefarious villain The Master just escaping Robins and Alans justice.
In part 5 Alan is planning to settle down, expecting to be a father, and with King John now in power, Robin has fallen from grace and is once again an outlaw in Sherwood forest.
But the reach of their enemies is long. Robin is almost tricked into trap by a devious plot- whilst setting out to right some wrongs-, Alans estate Westbury is attacked and burned to the ground, and his pregnant wife Goody is felled by a misterious disease- most probably a very powerful cuse.
When you anger the lion, he's gonna strike back, and that's what Robin does. With a small company of his trusted friends, and some likely and unlikely allies Robin and Alan set off to France in pursuit of the Master and the Holy Grail.
After hours of thrilling reading pleasure the companions succeed in their mission in an epic finale at the chateau de Montsegur (later to become the last stronghold of the Kathars) The hardfought victory however doesn't come without costs, and several compelling characters in the series unfortunately leave the stage.
Most certainly a worthy sequel that meets the same high standards as the first 4 parts. One of the best HF books I have read this year.
In part 5 Alan is planning to settle down, expecting to be a father, and with King John now in power, Robin has fallen from grace and is once again an outlaw in Sherwood forest.
But the reach of their enemies is long. Robin is almost tricked into trap by a devious plot- whilst setting out to right some wrongs-, Alans estate Westbury is attacked and burned to the ground, and his pregnant wife Goody is felled by a misterious disease- most probably a very powerful cuse.
When you anger the lion, he's gonna strike back, and that's what Robin does. With a small company of his trusted friends, and some likely and unlikely allies Robin and Alan set off to France in pursuit of the Master and the Holy Grail.
After hours of thrilling reading pleasure the companions succeed in their mission in an epic finale at the chateau de Montsegur (later to become the last stronghold of the Kathars) The hardfought victory however doesn't come without costs, and several compelling characters in the series unfortunately leave the stage.
Most certainly a worthy sequel that meets the same high standards as the first 4 parts. One of the best HF books I have read this year.
January 16, 2024
Some claim Donald is a better writer than Cornwell. This is a bold claim. Do I believe this? I dunno. Maybe?
March 14, 2017
This series only gets better with each installment.
January 6, 2015
I have thought Angus Donald was a good writer since reading his first novel in The Outlaw Chronicles, and I have enjoyed each of his novels in varying degrees, but his skill as a writer shows clear improvement with each successive volume. His stories are well-constructed and build to satisfying conclusions.
Having said that, in many ways I was not looking forward to Grail Knight. Another quest for the Holy Grail story, now shrouding Robin Hood within the folds of the Grail's ever-expanding legendary mantle? WHY?
Let's just say I have been pleasantly surprised with the outcome.
I don't like to spoil any surprises, but let me just say it was well worth the reading, another enjoyable story as Mr. Donald continues to build his own unique Robin Hood mythos which is both like and unlike the Robin Hood legend we know.
Keep them coming, Mr. Donald!
Having said that, in many ways I was not looking forward to Grail Knight. Another quest for the Holy Grail story, now shrouding Robin Hood within the folds of the Grail's ever-expanding legendary mantle? WHY?
Let's just say I have been pleasantly surprised with the outcome.
I don't like to spoil any surprises, but let me just say it was well worth the reading, another enjoyable story as Mr. Donald continues to build his own unique Robin Hood mythos which is both like and unlike the Robin Hood legend we know.
Keep them coming, Mr. Donald!
March 31, 2015
***received copy this free via Goodreads giveaway.
I fear my dislike of this book may come from not reading its predecessors. In general I love the time period, love re-tellings of the Robin Hood story, and of the Knights Templar. As I was reading this I felt the story did not not add to any of the lore/history and was just a bland tale placed upon it. I am curious if my enjoyment of this tale was marred by entering into a series in the middle without an attachment to the characters. As a stand a-lone book it did not work for me.
I fear my dislike of this book may come from not reading its predecessors. In general I love the time period, love re-tellings of the Robin Hood story, and of the Knights Templar. As I was reading this I felt the story did not not add to any of the lore/history and was just a bland tale placed upon it. I am curious if my enjoyment of this tale was marred by entering into a series in the middle without an attachment to the characters. As a stand a-lone book it did not work for me.
March 26, 2016
This series is good fun. The Robin Hood myth combines with the grail hunt, and brings Alan Dale's narrator, with Robin and the rest of his band to search for the grail. This book brings together a number of the plot ends from the previous couple of books, so isn't a good place to begin the series - my main criticism was the end was spent lining things up for a new story in the next book and moving or disposing of characters accordingly. It is an enjoyable, undemanding, read.
January 5, 2018
Having loved each addition to the Outlaw Chronicles, it came as no surprise to me that I loved Grail Knight just as much. What an absolute treat to read! This novel also marks a turning point in some of the themes and stories picked up from the previous books. A fascinating interpretation of the Robin Hood legend, here intermingling with Cathar history. A great read.
August 26, 2013
further adventures of sir alan dale and robin hood in the search of the grail and the Templars after them too as the action moves from Sherwood to the south of france and the mixture of Templars, grail and cathars . a page turner which doesn't fail expectations from this author
May 27, 2018
If there's one thing that Angus Donald excels at, it's creating a story that encapsulates a worldview that is in many ways entirely foreign to our own modern one. Alan and the men, and occasional women, that inhabit his life are true to the times, with all the horror and glory and violence and romanticism that that entails. It's a complicated telling, and Donald brings to life the complexities of history in a way I've rarely seen. It's a fantastic skill and one that allows the reader to appreciate the contradictions of humanity and society.
On a more micro level, Alan has a hard journey ahead of him in this latest installment of his adventures as a loyal vassal to Robin of Locksley. There is a lot of death and hardship in Grail Knight, and it's not always easy to experience, even vicariously. I'll try to avoid spoilers, but it's no lie that I shed a few tears during this book. It gives me some hope to know that Alan's story isn't finished here, but a part of me quails to read more, because it's clear that there is more hardship yet to come.
Robin himself is a man like no other. Donald has crafted him into a person wholly unique, someone strangely modern in many of his views and yet still, just as Alan says, cruel and loyal and someone to never, ever cross. Seeing him through Alan's eyes is what makes the story so fascinating. To see the contradictions in Robin, and as a reader to become aware of the contradictions in Alan as well. Neither of them are bad men, but it's hard to quantify them as good either, and that's what makes the experience worthwhile.
There's no doubt, however, that I'm going to keep reading. Alan, Robin, and the whole crew are real people to me by now, and I can't stop before I know the whole story.
Also,
[I received this book for free through First Reads and was not required to write a positive or any other type of review. All opinions stated herein are solely my own.]
On a more micro level, Alan has a hard journey ahead of him in this latest installment of his adventures as a loyal vassal to Robin of Locksley. There is a lot of death and hardship in Grail Knight, and it's not always easy to experience, even vicariously. I'll try to avoid spoilers, but it's no lie that I shed a few tears during this book. It gives me some hope to know that Alan's story isn't finished here, but a part of me quails to read more, because it's clear that there is more hardship yet to come.
Robin himself is a man like no other. Donald has crafted him into a person wholly unique, someone strangely modern in many of his views and yet still, just as Alan says, cruel and loyal and someone to never, ever cross. Seeing him through Alan's eyes is what makes the story so fascinating. To see the contradictions in Robin, and as a reader to become aware of the contradictions in Alan as well. Neither of them are bad men, but it's hard to quantify them as good either, and that's what makes the experience worthwhile.
There's no doubt, however, that I'm going to keep reading. Alan, Robin, and the whole crew are real people to me by now, and I can't stop before I know the whole story.
Also,
[I received this book for free through First Reads and was not required to write a positive or any other type of review. All opinions stated herein are solely my own.]
April 24, 2014
I’m going to have to come right out and say it - I’m a huge fan of Angus Donald’s ‘Outlaw Chronicles' series. And ‘Grail Knight’ is, in my humble opinion, his best yet.
I’m also a huge fan of Angus’ Alan Dale. Especially he ‘old’ one, the narrator, at the start and end of the books. The books hinge on Alan. He is the main character. He is doing the remembering and the telling of the stories and they are from his point of view. The old Alan writes with such pathos and feeling as though only now can he understand what the young Alan doesn’t always. About what he got mixed up in - and had to fight his way out of - and about Robin Hood and his own relationship with him. I, for one, would think there is mileage in a book solely of ‘old’ Alan’s reflections and his life ’now,’ the period when he’s recounting the tales of his youth. Check out the vivid, almost Disney-esque descriptions of Sherwood near the start and tell me that couldn’t hold its own throughout a whole novel. There you go.
‘Grail Knight’ was set up nicely in the previous book, ‘Warlord' and gets going from the off. But not how you’re thinking. Not with a ‘Hey! Let’s go look for the Grail!", from the start. It’s more subtle than that. The story casts out several strands, builds seemingly in other directions but then comes together to coalesce (if strands can coalesce) into that noblest of Middle Ages quests. But the reasons and the thinking behind the quest, from the characters and Angus here, are if you’re up for it, very interesting.
Of course, in the period the book is set, the Middle Ages, it is impossible to avoid talk of religion. It was, it seems, much more a part of peoples’ daily lives, than we can possibly imagine. In Angus Donald’s ‘Outlaw’ series, there are often what seems like the equivalent of two religions they didn’t understand, fighting for control over their lives. Christianity maybe the ‘official’ religion, but people, out in the fields and forests, still need the help found in an older religion. Many have replaced faith in the gods and goddesses of the fields and the trees and the pools, with faith in other, newer kinds of equally inanimate objects that may or may not have had some connection with the new, one God. Which is how the book starts, with Alan trying to make sense of people putting faith in an ordinary-looking old flask they say was given to their priest in a dream. But which Alan knows he bought for a few coins in France, when he needed something to drink from. The book is in some ways an interesting exploration of who is right. The Grail of the title is nothing special to look at either. Angus goes for the idea that it was a fairly ordinary bowl, used by Jesus and the disciples at the last supper to mix wine in, but then held His blood, or drops thereof, at the time of His crucifixion. It is only special because of what it is believed to have contained. As is Alan’s flask. The Grail, many people believe, has power because of what it contained. Alan believes his flask could have the power he wants it to have, for the same reasons.
So, what Alan has to wrestle with is the, to him, absurdity, though sometimes the necessity, of trusting in or believing in, something you know cannot be what it seems others want it to be. During the novel, as events unfold, his view doesn’t exactly change, but he becomes more understanding. If someone thinks something can or did do what they said, who is he to contradict their belief? Alan, while having absolute faith in something, someone, he has never seen but has been told controls every aspect of his life, struggles to understand others’ faith in something they can see, right in front of them. Is it the ‘real' grail they find? It is if enough people believe it is. It is, even if you’re the only person who believes it is. It is if Robin Hood tells you it is what you’re looking for. Interesting.
‘Grail Knight’ is an excellent, all-action, full-blooded story on - at least - a couple of levels and one which will reward you richly however you come at it. There is derring-do, there are narrow escapes against impossible odds. Nemeses are confronted, cultures clashed. Other varieties of Christianities looked at. There is remorse and redemption, friends measured and tested and some found wanting. There are other shocks and plenty of ‘endings’ (for various characters and not all of the at the point of a sword kind) a-plenty too, especially in the second half. Angus makes some very brave decisions on his characters’ behalf (you may need to set your face to stun on a couple of occasions). But they are the right decisions, as there can be no doubt now that Angus OWNS Sherwood, Robin and all.
If there was one way I think Angus could improve the series, it would be to have more tales set in England. His characters have ranged far and wide down the five books and I think that it is time to take them back to their mythological roots. He has reinvented the characters, yes, but he should be wary of taking them too far away from what it could be argued, people know and love about them. I have no idea what the storyline for ‘The Iron Castle' is, but if that too involves foreign travel, so be it. The next one then should be set in England, in Sherwood (and not in caves) and feature the sherrif, or someone similar.
As I’ve tried to say, 'Grail Knight’ is a beautifully planned and executed novel. Richly imagined, I would think is the way reviewers would describe it. I really couldn’t have enjoyed its thrilling and rewarding tale if I’d tried. If you thought that with book number five an author could perhaps be forgiven, that it might even be understandable, for taking his or her foot off the gas, eye off the ball. Then with Angus, you need to think again. ‘Grail Knight’ will be a tough act to follow, but then I’ve thought that sort of thing with Angus before. I thought ‘King’s Man’ would be difficult to follow, but he proved me wrong and I’m so much looking forward to being proved wrong again, when Alan and Robin - and some of the others from Sherwood - return for book six ‘The Iron Castle’ - very soon.
I’m also a huge fan of Angus’ Alan Dale. Especially he ‘old’ one, the narrator, at the start and end of the books. The books hinge on Alan. He is the main character. He is doing the remembering and the telling of the stories and they are from his point of view. The old Alan writes with such pathos and feeling as though only now can he understand what the young Alan doesn’t always. About what he got mixed up in - and had to fight his way out of - and about Robin Hood and his own relationship with him. I, for one, would think there is mileage in a book solely of ‘old’ Alan’s reflections and his life ’now,’ the period when he’s recounting the tales of his youth. Check out the vivid, almost Disney-esque descriptions of Sherwood near the start and tell me that couldn’t hold its own throughout a whole novel. There you go.
‘Grail Knight’ was set up nicely in the previous book, ‘Warlord' and gets going from the off. But not how you’re thinking. Not with a ‘Hey! Let’s go look for the Grail!", from the start. It’s more subtle than that. The story casts out several strands, builds seemingly in other directions but then comes together to coalesce (if strands can coalesce) into that noblest of Middle Ages quests. But the reasons and the thinking behind the quest, from the characters and Angus here, are if you’re up for it, very interesting.
Of course, in the period the book is set, the Middle Ages, it is impossible to avoid talk of religion. It was, it seems, much more a part of peoples’ daily lives, than we can possibly imagine. In Angus Donald’s ‘Outlaw’ series, there are often what seems like the equivalent of two religions they didn’t understand, fighting for control over their lives. Christianity maybe the ‘official’ religion, but people, out in the fields and forests, still need the help found in an older religion. Many have replaced faith in the gods and goddesses of the fields and the trees and the pools, with faith in other, newer kinds of equally inanimate objects that may or may not have had some connection with the new, one God. Which is how the book starts, with Alan trying to make sense of people putting faith in an ordinary-looking old flask they say was given to their priest in a dream. But which Alan knows he bought for a few coins in France, when he needed something to drink from. The book is in some ways an interesting exploration of who is right. The Grail of the title is nothing special to look at either. Angus goes for the idea that it was a fairly ordinary bowl, used by Jesus and the disciples at the last supper to mix wine in, but then held His blood, or drops thereof, at the time of His crucifixion. It is only special because of what it is believed to have contained. As is Alan’s flask. The Grail, many people believe, has power because of what it contained. Alan believes his flask could have the power he wants it to have, for the same reasons.
So, what Alan has to wrestle with is the, to him, absurdity, though sometimes the necessity, of trusting in or believing in, something you know cannot be what it seems others want it to be. During the novel, as events unfold, his view doesn’t exactly change, but he becomes more understanding. If someone thinks something can or did do what they said, who is he to contradict their belief? Alan, while having absolute faith in something, someone, he has never seen but has been told controls every aspect of his life, struggles to understand others’ faith in something they can see, right in front of them. Is it the ‘real' grail they find? It is if enough people believe it is. It is, even if you’re the only person who believes it is. It is if Robin Hood tells you it is what you’re looking for. Interesting.
‘Grail Knight’ is an excellent, all-action, full-blooded story on - at least - a couple of levels and one which will reward you richly however you come at it. There is derring-do, there are narrow escapes against impossible odds. Nemeses are confronted, cultures clashed. Other varieties of Christianities looked at. There is remorse and redemption, friends measured and tested and some found wanting. There are other shocks and plenty of ‘endings’ (for various characters and not all of the at the point of a sword kind) a-plenty too, especially in the second half. Angus makes some very brave decisions on his characters’ behalf (you may need to set your face to stun on a couple of occasions). But they are the right decisions, as there can be no doubt now that Angus OWNS Sherwood, Robin and all.
If there was one way I think Angus could improve the series, it would be to have more tales set in England. His characters have ranged far and wide down the five books and I think that it is time to take them back to their mythological roots. He has reinvented the characters, yes, but he should be wary of taking them too far away from what it could be argued, people know and love about them. I have no idea what the storyline for ‘The Iron Castle' is, but if that too involves foreign travel, so be it. The next one then should be set in England, in Sherwood (and not in caves) and feature the sherrif, or someone similar.
As I’ve tried to say, 'Grail Knight’ is a beautifully planned and executed novel. Richly imagined, I would think is the way reviewers would describe it. I really couldn’t have enjoyed its thrilling and rewarding tale if I’d tried. If you thought that with book number five an author could perhaps be forgiven, that it might even be understandable, for taking his or her foot off the gas, eye off the ball. Then with Angus, you need to think again. ‘Grail Knight’ will be a tough act to follow, but then I’ve thought that sort of thing with Angus before. I thought ‘King’s Man’ would be difficult to follow, but he proved me wrong and I’m so much looking forward to being proved wrong again, when Alan and Robin - and some of the others from Sherwood - return for book six ‘The Iron Castle’ - very soon.
May 30, 2017
The continuing saga of Sir Allen Dale and Robin Hood. This time they are in pursuit of the Holy Grail. Having spent some time in the Languedoc, visiting Montsegur, and studying the Cathars and Templars, it's pretty clear that Angus Donald did some homework. I love the twists that he puts on actual historical events and lays out alternative visions of almost mythical organizations like the Templars. While often hailed as humble servants of God and Warrior-monks, it was indeed true that the Templars were the ultimate power club of the time. With power comes corruption and they were not exempt. Of course, Robin is the anti-hero. You want to love the mythical "rob-from-the-rich-give-to-the-poor" Robin Hood, but this fella is a bit more ruthless. More like "rob from everyone and give to my wallet" is the idea of the day. This was just another great book full of blood, guts, violence, curses, spells, narrow escapes, and enough twists to keep you guessing. On to #6!
April 4, 2018
I keep pecking away at this series over the last few years, and it has been interesting to see the development of this version of the Robin Hood legend grow. This blending of Grail myth worked well, surprisingly. Alan's belief in both the Church and in Robin - who is focused on gaining money and power - works well with how the Grail is seen. It always takes me just a bit to get back into the style but once I do it is always a good read. Alan's narration and his character allows for the detailed descriptions. Robin is a bit more grim dark than I might like, but like Alan, I am drawn towards him still. Nur's return and level of redemption helped soothe some of the issues I had with how her character had been treated, but honestly she is at least the second named female character in the series to be raped, and her whole story is full of abuse which is not so cool.
February 19, 2017
I have really enjoyed this series and being a Nottingham boy, it adds a bit of extra interest. I didn't enjoy this one as much as the others, perhaps the plot was lacking a little but the fight scenes were gruesomely described as usual. I can't be too harsh, it's just that the author had set such a high standard with previous books that this was just slightly below par. I see comparisons from other reviewers with the great Bernard Cornwell. He is very close and hopefully will be able to continue producing high quality historical novels as BC has done over the years.
October 21, 2023
70 year old Alan Dale writes of when he was 24-25 years old. His wife and unborn son are under a death curse from the witch Nur so Alan travels with Robin and others across France to find the Holy Grail, which he believes can save their lives. There are many mad battles and good and bad people die before the Holy Grail is found, only for them to be trapped in a castle, where their tiny group are besieged by an overwhelming force of Knights Templers who want to kill them because Robin stole five hundred pounds of silver from them.
March 10, 2024
I enjoyed this fifth book in the Outlaw series following the adventures of Alan Dale with Robin Hood. This time, they are on a quest to find the Holy Grail. The book works well as a standalone, but is probably best appreciated after reading the earlier books, as it's good to meet familiar characters once again.
Quite a bit of violence and bloody battles (as would be expected for stories from this era) so maybe not for the squeamish.
Quite a bit of violence and bloody battles (as would be expected for stories from this era) so maybe not for the squeamish.
November 22, 2017
Enjoyable and pretty gory medieval adventure
Alan's adventures continue apace. I lost count of the number of brutal killings and violent encounters. Lots of past threads come together in this story of pursuit of the holy grail. Thoroughly enjoyable if you are willing to suspend a little belief. I am looking forward to reading the next instalment!
Alan's adventures continue apace. I lost count of the number of brutal killings and violent encounters. Lots of past threads come together in this story of pursuit of the holy grail. Thoroughly enjoyable if you are willing to suspend a little belief. I am looking forward to reading the next instalment!
March 13, 2018
What grander prize could there be for the world's great criminal mastermind than the Holy Grail itself? A genius move by the author, combining the legend of the grail with his reimagining of Robin Hood. Old friends and enemies collide in this bloody, intense adventure tale that stretches from Nottingham's forests to the exotic Languedoc.
July 10, 2025
Fantastic! Next to the first installment this has been my favorite in the series this far!
Still reeling that one of my former UofT professors the late professor Goering book on the Holy Grail inspired this portion of Robin Hoods story 💜💜💜
Awesome!
Still reeling that one of my former UofT professors the late professor Goering book on the Holy Grail inspired this portion of Robin Hoods story 💜💜💜
Awesome!
February 3, 2017
Todo el tiempo atrapante y excelente aunque el final me dejó mal gusto. En parte predecible y en parte muy forzado. La historia increíble. Parecía ser el mejor de los 5. Lástima el final.
March 21, 2017
i enjoyed it but there were a few totally needless deaths to be honest
July 1, 2017
Did not stop until finished. Really easy to follow and entertained until the end
July 22, 2017
Really enjoying this series
August 11, 2017
This series is just so so good
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