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The Agincourt King
From the day he was crowned, Henry V was determined to prove the legitimacy of his house. His father's usurpation weighed heavily on his mind. Only a grand gesture would capture the respect of his own countrymen and the rest of Europe. He would follow in his great-grandfather Edward III's footsteps, and recover lost territory in France. Better yet, why not go for the crown? Poor, deranged Charles VI couldn't manage his own barons. The civil war between the Burgundians and Armagnacs was more of a threat to his country than the English, even after Henry laid siege to Harfleur. But once Harfleur had fallen, the French came to their senses and determined to block his path to Calais and destroy him. By the time the English reached Agincourt, they were starving, exhausted, and easy pickings. Or so the French thought. Little did they reckon on Henry's leadership and the stout-hearted English archers who proved, once again, that numbers didn't matter when God was on their side.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2024
6 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Mercedes Rochelle
17 books149 followersBorn and raised in St. Louis MO, Mercedes Rochelle graduated with a degree in English literature from University of Missouri. Mercedes learned about living history as a re-enactor and has been enamored with historical fiction ever since. A move to New York to do research and two careers ensued, but writing fiction remains her primary vocation. She lives in Sergeantsville, NJ with her husband in a log home they had built themselves.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
July 24, 2024
Blurb
From the day he was crowned, Henry V was determined to prove the legitimacy of his house. His father's usurpation weighed heavily on his mind. Only a grand gesture would capture the respect of his own countrymen and the rest of Europe. He would follow in his great-grandfather Edward III's footsteps, and recover lost territory in France. Better yet, why not go for the crown? Poor, deranged Charles VI couldn't manage his own barons. The civil war between the Burgundians and Armagnacs was more of a threat to his country than the English, even after Henry laid siege to Harfleur. But once Harfleur had fallen, the French came to their senses and determined to block his path to Calais and destroy him. By the time the English reached Agincourt, they were starving, exhausted, and easy pickings. Or so the French thought. Little did they reckon on Henry's leadership and the stout-hearted English archers who proved, once again, that numbers didn't matter when God was on their side.
Review
An intriguing tale of the seemingly endless strife between England and France. The author seamlessly intertwines the historical record of Henry V with an eye-catching, pulse-racing narrative. The characters leap off the pages giving the reader the sense of being there among them. So, my fellow readers, prepare yourselves for an entertaining and informative time as you plot along with the French and English, as they once again embrace in the arms of battle. 5 Stars
From the day he was crowned, Henry V was determined to prove the legitimacy of his house. His father's usurpation weighed heavily on his mind. Only a grand gesture would capture the respect of his own countrymen and the rest of Europe. He would follow in his great-grandfather Edward III's footsteps, and recover lost territory in France. Better yet, why not go for the crown? Poor, deranged Charles VI couldn't manage his own barons. The civil war between the Burgundians and Armagnacs was more of a threat to his country than the English, even after Henry laid siege to Harfleur. But once Harfleur had fallen, the French came to their senses and determined to block his path to Calais and destroy him. By the time the English reached Agincourt, they were starving, exhausted, and easy pickings. Or so the French thought. Little did they reckon on Henry's leadership and the stout-hearted English archers who proved, once again, that numbers didn't matter when God was on their side.
Review
An intriguing tale of the seemingly endless strife between England and France. The author seamlessly intertwines the historical record of Henry V with an eye-catching, pulse-racing narrative. The characters leap off the pages giving the reader the sense of being there among them. So, my fellow readers, prepare yourselves for an entertaining and informative time as you plot along with the French and English, as they once again embrace in the arms of battle. 5 Stars
April 8, 2024
The Agincourt King (The Plantagenet Legacy Book 5) by Mercedes Rochelle is a lavish depiction of one of the most famous battles in English history, which was won by one of England’s most beloved kings.
Immortalised by Shakespeare, and to some extent, Kenneth Branagh, Henry V is probably one of the more recognised kings of this era. Shakespeare is a hard act to follow, but I was really looking forward to seeing Rochelle’s take on the man famed for his St Crispin’s Day Speech. Rochelle has breathed new life into Henry. He is a capable and somewhat caring king, devoted to the well-being of his people, yet driven by ambition to achieve the same greatness as his great grandfather, Edward III. Edward triumphed in the French battle at Crecy, and Henry was determined to achieve a similar feat, ultimately surpassing Edward's victory at The Battle of Agincourt.
The level of historical detail in this story is astonishing. Rochelle’s dedication to research is reflected in her authoritative penmanship. The historical background of this story is so impressive, that it practically screams authenticity. There was no question about the time period I was in while reading this book. Rochelle’s skilful writing revives this era in all its agony and splendour.
Beyond being a narrative of conflict, this story explores the complexities of family, emphasizing the bond between brothers. Humphrey, Henry's youngest brother, admires the king with fierce pride. Humphrey adores his brother but this devotion does not blind Humphrey to Henry’s faults. At times, he finds Henry rather confusing. Although cold-blooded murder bothers Henry, he doesn’t have the same moral dilemma about causing the death of thousands in battle. Witnessing the death of his closest friends and comrades from the bloody flux during the Siege of Harfleur was not a cause for retreat. Humphrey sees that Henry values honour above all else, especially when it comes to defeating the French.
Henry is portrayed as an extraordinarily astute leader, effortlessly navigating the realm of power and politics, and orchestrating the French like a masterful musician. He whistled the melody and the song unfolded just as he desired. He wants to be perceived as a compassionate leader, refraining from aggressive actions against the innocent. However, he has no qualms about causing mass starvation and murdering prisoners of war to achieve his goals. By observing his actions and inactions, the reader, and indeed Humphrey, gain insight into Henry’s true character. He is a driven individual who is hungry for success and recognition. The Battle of Agincourt served as the platform for him to showcase that God was on his side. Once he had done that, he went home. At least for a while.
The way the book explored the relationships between the brothers, particularly Henry and Thomas, was expertly executed. From Humphrey’s musing, he sees greatness in both his elder brothers and comes to the conclusion that both men have the makings for a great king, it is just that fate made Henry the eldest. The portrayal of the brother’s relationships was skilfully done, allowing the reader to truly grasp the dynamics of this family. Henry’s relationship with his brothers was unique compared to previous kings - he cared for them and valued their thoughts, although he had the ultimate authority as king. And as Humphrey notices, although Thomas is the heir to the throne, and looks the part, Henry is the better man for the job. I really enjoyed as a reader getting to know the brothers and the different strengths they had. The way Humphrey told his story from his perspective added a personal touch that I found particularly enjoyable while reading. Humphrey was the ideal narrator for Henry’s story and I really liked him as a character. I thought he was wonderfully depicted.
Rochelle does give the reader both the English and French perspectives in this novel. With Charles VI’s unpredictable illness, there is a lack of strong leadership. The depiction of the Dauphin, Louis, Duke of Guienne, was masterfully rendered. In contrast to Henry, he fails to command the loyalty of his nobles, is burdened with rival noble Houses, lacks combat experience, and is surrounded by men he doesn’t trust. Henry cleverly outwits and outmanoeuvres him every time. Nevertheless, the Dauphin was a captivating character to read about and I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing the complete chaos that enveloped him and the French throne.
Rochelle subtly indicated the future by mentioning Henry VI’s disputed lineage - after all, he was an usurper which would have made Henry V the son of an usurper. Henry needed this decisive battle that would validate the Lancastrians’ claim of divine backing. Rochelle illustrates how crucial this war was for Henry’s reign. He needed that success. What happened after in the future generations is, as they say, another story!
I anticipated greatness from this novel because Rochelle can create authentic battle scenes and, at the same time, grasp the complexities of human emotions, and as I anticipated this book is great. It is an utterly brilliant book from start to finish and one I highly recommend.
Yarde Book Promotions
Immortalised by Shakespeare, and to some extent, Kenneth Branagh, Henry V is probably one of the more recognised kings of this era. Shakespeare is a hard act to follow, but I was really looking forward to seeing Rochelle’s take on the man famed for his St Crispin’s Day Speech. Rochelle has breathed new life into Henry. He is a capable and somewhat caring king, devoted to the well-being of his people, yet driven by ambition to achieve the same greatness as his great grandfather, Edward III. Edward triumphed in the French battle at Crecy, and Henry was determined to achieve a similar feat, ultimately surpassing Edward's victory at The Battle of Agincourt.
The level of historical detail in this story is astonishing. Rochelle’s dedication to research is reflected in her authoritative penmanship. The historical background of this story is so impressive, that it practically screams authenticity. There was no question about the time period I was in while reading this book. Rochelle’s skilful writing revives this era in all its agony and splendour.
Beyond being a narrative of conflict, this story explores the complexities of family, emphasizing the bond between brothers. Humphrey, Henry's youngest brother, admires the king with fierce pride. Humphrey adores his brother but this devotion does not blind Humphrey to Henry’s faults. At times, he finds Henry rather confusing. Although cold-blooded murder bothers Henry, he doesn’t have the same moral dilemma about causing the death of thousands in battle. Witnessing the death of his closest friends and comrades from the bloody flux during the Siege of Harfleur was not a cause for retreat. Humphrey sees that Henry values honour above all else, especially when it comes to defeating the French.
Henry is portrayed as an extraordinarily astute leader, effortlessly navigating the realm of power and politics, and orchestrating the French like a masterful musician. He whistled the melody and the song unfolded just as he desired. He wants to be perceived as a compassionate leader, refraining from aggressive actions against the innocent. However, he has no qualms about causing mass starvation and murdering prisoners of war to achieve his goals. By observing his actions and inactions, the reader, and indeed Humphrey, gain insight into Henry’s true character. He is a driven individual who is hungry for success and recognition. The Battle of Agincourt served as the platform for him to showcase that God was on his side. Once he had done that, he went home. At least for a while.
The way the book explored the relationships between the brothers, particularly Henry and Thomas, was expertly executed. From Humphrey’s musing, he sees greatness in both his elder brothers and comes to the conclusion that both men have the makings for a great king, it is just that fate made Henry the eldest. The portrayal of the brother’s relationships was skilfully done, allowing the reader to truly grasp the dynamics of this family. Henry’s relationship with his brothers was unique compared to previous kings - he cared for them and valued their thoughts, although he had the ultimate authority as king. And as Humphrey notices, although Thomas is the heir to the throne, and looks the part, Henry is the better man for the job. I really enjoyed as a reader getting to know the brothers and the different strengths they had. The way Humphrey told his story from his perspective added a personal touch that I found particularly enjoyable while reading. Humphrey was the ideal narrator for Henry’s story and I really liked him as a character. I thought he was wonderfully depicted.
Rochelle does give the reader both the English and French perspectives in this novel. With Charles VI’s unpredictable illness, there is a lack of strong leadership. The depiction of the Dauphin, Louis, Duke of Guienne, was masterfully rendered. In contrast to Henry, he fails to command the loyalty of his nobles, is burdened with rival noble Houses, lacks combat experience, and is surrounded by men he doesn’t trust. Henry cleverly outwits and outmanoeuvres him every time. Nevertheless, the Dauphin was a captivating character to read about and I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing the complete chaos that enveloped him and the French throne.
Rochelle subtly indicated the future by mentioning Henry VI’s disputed lineage - after all, he was an usurper which would have made Henry V the son of an usurper. Henry needed this decisive battle that would validate the Lancastrians’ claim of divine backing. Rochelle illustrates how crucial this war was for Henry’s reign. He needed that success. What happened after in the future generations is, as they say, another story!
I anticipated greatness from this novel because Rochelle can create authentic battle scenes and, at the same time, grasp the complexities of human emotions, and as I anticipated this book is great. It is an utterly brilliant book from start to finish and one I highly recommend.
Yarde Book Promotions
July 22, 2024
The battled-hardened warrior king, Henry V, is determined to create his legacy in the Medieval Historical Fiction, The Agincourt King (The Plantagenet Legacy Book 5). Impetuous and fiery-tempered, King Henry V puts on a mask of piety even though his cruelty could manifest at any moment. He believes God has destined him to regain lost territories in France and thus decides to reignite the Hundred Years' War. The time seems right in 1414. France is distracted by its internal conflicts and its weak king. But as Henry V is ready to embark to France, he discovers the Cambridge Plot to replace him with Edmund Mortimer as king. He exacts justice with an iron fist on the treasonous nobles, then sets sail to demonstrate his military prowess with decisive victories in France, despite the odds.
Author Mercedes Rochelle demonstrates her impeccable research in this historical biographical fiction. Various points of view were sometimes used in a chapter to paint a broad stroke of the political intrigue and the battle scene. Scenes told from the first-perspective perspective of Henry's younger brother, Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, provide the greatest insight into King Henry V as a historical figure. His inner circle of nobles stays clear of him when his temper flares, but they demonstrate absolute allegiance to protect him in battle. Likewise, Henry V shows respect and generosity to those most loyal to him. He inspires his army with his leadership qualities and fights with his soldiers to win decisive victories despite the odds.
This is a plot-driven novel, emphasizing the political intrigue behind the campaigns that Henry V undertook. I felt as if I were in the midst of battle at Agincourt. The points of view change, giving the reader a sense of what is happening at various locations in the conflict. Military tactics switch suddenly, depending on unexpected changes in the momentum of the clash. Hardship and cruelty of war resonate from one battle scene to another. Soldiers suffering from disease and malnutrition fight fiercely to protect their comrades. Prisoners of war held for ransom are sometimes sacrificed when the promise of victory turns the tide. A list of characters and maps are additional bonuses.
I highly recommend The Agincourt King for its intriguing political intrigue, cinematic battle scenes, and historical detail of the medieval era in Europe.
Author Mercedes Rochelle demonstrates her impeccable research in this historical biographical fiction. Various points of view were sometimes used in a chapter to paint a broad stroke of the political intrigue and the battle scene. Scenes told from the first-perspective perspective of Henry's younger brother, Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, provide the greatest insight into King Henry V as a historical figure. His inner circle of nobles stays clear of him when his temper flares, but they demonstrate absolute allegiance to protect him in battle. Likewise, Henry V shows respect and generosity to those most loyal to him. He inspires his army with his leadership qualities and fights with his soldiers to win decisive victories despite the odds.
This is a plot-driven novel, emphasizing the political intrigue behind the campaigns that Henry V undertook. I felt as if I were in the midst of battle at Agincourt. The points of view change, giving the reader a sense of what is happening at various locations in the conflict. Military tactics switch suddenly, depending on unexpected changes in the momentum of the clash. Hardship and cruelty of war resonate from one battle scene to another. Soldiers suffering from disease and malnutrition fight fiercely to protect their comrades. Prisoners of war held for ransom are sometimes sacrificed when the promise of victory turns the tide. A list of characters and maps are additional bonuses.
I highly recommend The Agincourt King for its intriguing political intrigue, cinematic battle scenes, and historical detail of the medieval era in Europe.
July 23, 2024
Ah, yes, the valiant and gallant King Henry V - the man whose name is not forgotten after his decisive victory over the French at Agincourt. If you have never heard of him or his achievements before then you lucked out at school. My first introduction to this charismatic character was when I was doing my GCSE and Henry V was the prescribed Shakespearean text. Ever since then, I have been a little obsessed with all things Harry. But I digress. Henry's victory has inspired generations, but what was it like in the lead-up to one of the most famous battles in history? Well, this question is thoroughly explored in Mercedes Rochelle's, The Agincourt King.
This story is told, for the most part, by Humphrey, Henry's younger brother and it is certainly no romantic depiction of events. It is gritty, brutal and rather bloody, and, quite a few people die. The Siege of Harfleur did as much damage to Henry's army as it did to those under siege and yet Henry is steadfast in his commitment even if it does mean sacrificing some of his dearest friends to the bloody flux. Henry's dream of glory is overshadowed by the cruelty which he deems necessary to achieve his goals. At times I found it very difficult to like Henry, even though on the whole he is extremely likable, but he is so obsessed with making a name for himself that he forgoes his humanity to achieve his goals.
I did enjoy reading about the complete incompetence of the French who had enough issues to deal with, without the complications of Henry's army. The Dauphin certainly had my sympathy for he is unprepared for what lies ahead. And with his father's illness, it falls to him to make the decisions and with a court full of vipers the poor man doesn't stand much of a chance. The author reminds the readers that it was not just Henry's shrewdness that meant he won at Agincourt but it was also the inability of the French to get their act together.
I think the author has written a very truthful story, rich in historical facts and with some unforgettable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it and I am looking forward to the next book in the series and to finding out what mischief Henry is going to get up to next.
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
This story is told, for the most part, by Humphrey, Henry's younger brother and it is certainly no romantic depiction of events. It is gritty, brutal and rather bloody, and, quite a few people die. The Siege of Harfleur did as much damage to Henry's army as it did to those under siege and yet Henry is steadfast in his commitment even if it does mean sacrificing some of his dearest friends to the bloody flux. Henry's dream of glory is overshadowed by the cruelty which he deems necessary to achieve his goals. At times I found it very difficult to like Henry, even though on the whole he is extremely likable, but he is so obsessed with making a name for himself that he forgoes his humanity to achieve his goals.
I did enjoy reading about the complete incompetence of the French who had enough issues to deal with, without the complications of Henry's army. The Dauphin certainly had my sympathy for he is unprepared for what lies ahead. And with his father's illness, it falls to him to make the decisions and with a court full of vipers the poor man doesn't stand much of a chance. The author reminds the readers that it was not just Henry's shrewdness that meant he won at Agincourt but it was also the inability of the French to get their act together.
I think the author has written a very truthful story, rich in historical facts and with some unforgettable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it and I am looking forward to the next book in the series and to finding out what mischief Henry is going to get up to next.
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
May 10, 2024
With The Agincourt King, Mercedes Rochelle has achieved a triumph, creating a nuanced world for possibly the best known of English medieval kings and battles.
Using an effective narrative approach, Rochelle provides us with two perspectives throughout the novel. The Agincourt story is not simply an English success. It is also a French failure. This technique of taking us between the English and French camps and points of view humanizes the individuals on both sides of the epic clash. Rochelle brings the sights, smells, colours, and sounds of the world of the time to life. Thus, the battle of Agincourt when it happens is vivid.
But as with life, the novel does not end there. Both the French and the English must deal with the aftermath of Agincourt and Rochelle handles it deftly. The victors and the defeated face problems and Harfleur still needs help. And Henry has won a battle not the war.
Rochelle leaves us panting to discover what happens next. She has created complex characters living in a vivid and nuanced world. Each person, each side has reasons for their actions and suffers their consequences.
Henry V and the Battle of Agincourt are watchwords of English medieval history. Kudos to Mercedes Rochelle who has succeeded magnificently in bringing a fresh perspective to this well-known story.
Using an effective narrative approach, Rochelle provides us with two perspectives throughout the novel. The Agincourt story is not simply an English success. It is also a French failure. This technique of taking us between the English and French camps and points of view humanizes the individuals on both sides of the epic clash. Rochelle brings the sights, smells, colours, and sounds of the world of the time to life. Thus, the battle of Agincourt when it happens is vivid.
But as with life, the novel does not end there. Both the French and the English must deal with the aftermath of Agincourt and Rochelle handles it deftly. The victors and the defeated face problems and Harfleur still needs help. And Henry has won a battle not the war.
Rochelle leaves us panting to discover what happens next. She has created complex characters living in a vivid and nuanced world. Each person, each side has reasons for their actions and suffers their consequences.
Henry V and the Battle of Agincourt are watchwords of English medieval history. Kudos to Mercedes Rochelle who has succeeded magnificently in bringing a fresh perspective to this well-known story.
April 10, 2024
Excellent work from Miss Rochelle! This is a “cracking read.”
Extensively researched detail supports real flesh and blood characters in a true tale that takes you from a chaotic France with a weak and sickly King and bickering courtiers, to a turbulent England and an uneasy throne, then to invasion of France and the bloody field of Agincourt.
King Henry V, of England, the great "Battle King" comes alive as a man on a mission from God to claim his birthright as King of both England and France.
Highly recommended!
Extensively researched detail supports real flesh and blood characters in a true tale that takes you from a chaotic France with a weak and sickly King and bickering courtiers, to a turbulent England and an uneasy throne, then to invasion of France and the bloody field of Agincourt.
King Henry V, of England, the great "Battle King" comes alive as a man on a mission from God to claim his birthright as King of both England and France.
Highly recommended!
May 16, 2024
What I loved about this story is the masterful way in which Ms. Rochelle brings all of the complex pieces of this story together. Told from the side of the English and the French, the reader not only gets a view into the world of the decision-makers and factions driving these nations ever closer to collision but also puts the reader into the armor of the gallant knights as their visions of glory die in the muck and gore of battle. Thoroughly researched and well-told, this is a must-read for anyone fascinated by medieval European history.
May 12, 2024
What a fabulous retelling of history! Mercedes has made me love historical fiction so much it is my 3rd favorite genre right after science fiction and fantasy.
She brings to life those pivotal events from long ago with richly detailed stories! 4.9 stars from me, I am very picky about certain things.
If you like biographies or history her books give you the best of both worlds! Do yourself a favor and read all of her books!
She brings to life those pivotal events from long ago with richly detailed stories! 4.9 stars from me, I am very picky about certain things.
If you like biographies or history her books give you the best of both worlds! Do yourself a favor and read all of her books!
October 1, 2024
We are proud to announce that THE AGINCOURT KING (The Plantagenet Legacy Book 5) by Mercedes Rochelle has been honored with the B.R.A.G. Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG. This award is a testament to this book's quality and the impact it has had on readers.
June 26, 2025
Good
A little bit dry for me considering it is historical fiction. I understood that this was the story of the famous Battle of Agincourt, but it was just too much battle detail for me. What I did really like was the story being told from both the English and French sides. The author did a good job of imagining how both sides handled it.
A little bit dry for me considering it is historical fiction. I understood that this was the story of the famous Battle of Agincourt, but it was just too much battle detail for me. What I did really like was the story being told from both the English and French sides. The author did a good job of imagining how both sides handled it.
November 12, 2024
Great read
July 12, 2024
This is not a light, novelized version of Shakespeare's Henry V. It's a deep dive into the politics that led to the famous Agincourt battle and beyond. The author presents both sides, the English and the French, with the political disputes within the French aristocracy being mind-blowing. The descriptions of medieval battles were horrific, from the brutal hand-to-hand fighting to the living conditions the armies had to endure. I'm a fan of Henry V and learned a lot of new information, thanks to the author's diligent research. This isn't light reading but it's a fascinating new look at the famous battle immortalized by Shakespeare.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews