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Pendragon
Pre-Order the thrilling next instalment in Peter Gibbons, The Chronicles of Arthur series To save his people, a warrior must become more than a king…
Dark Age Britain crumbles.
Cruel kings of Britain sit alone atop their hilltop fortresses as brutal Saxon invaders push ever forwards, greedy for plunder and weakened kingdoms to conquer.
Blood feuds, jealousy, and pride keeps these Kingdoms isolated. Only the Pendragon, Uther, the high king of kings, has the power to unite the armies of Britain against their common enemy. But Uther Pendragon refuses to march to war as the Saxon hordes under the bloodthirsty leadership of Lord Octha grow ever stronger, quashing all that stands in his way.
Arthur leads a solitary warband, searching wild and lawless badlands bringing the fight to the savage Saxon warlords. As war brews, Merlin stirs up legends of Arthur, Excalibur, and the old gods, kindling a spark of hope in men’s hearts to unite and fight back.
As Saxon armies mass for war and destruction, Arthur must embrace the legend.
Can he bring the Pendragon to war, and march with the force of Britain to crush the Saxon invaders?
It will take all of Merlin’s power, Arthur’s iron will, and the strength of Excalibur to win this epic battle for the future of Britain.
The continuation of the compelling, fast-paced series from bestselling writer Peter Gibbons. Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell.
Praise for Peter
'Bristling with intense action, this is the grounded and brutal retelling of Arthurian myth set in the grim landscape of Dark Age Britain.' - Richard Cullen
'A power house of a novel told with the pace of a charging war horse. Well rounded characters brought to vivid life in Britain's Dark Age. Not a book to be missed.' - Adam Lofthouse
'Riveting, page-turning action that shows Arthur growing from a frightened youngster into a confident warlord. A fresh new take on an old legend that readers will find hard to put down.' - Steven A McKay
'Epic, brutal action' - Matthew Harffy
'A gripping tale in which our distant British history is brought to life. A must-read for any Arthurian fan.' - Reader Review
'First class. I could not put this book down. Absolutely riveting. Action packed throughout. I eagerly await the next book in the series.' - Reader Review
'This was full of battles, violence, politics and is a fresh new take on Arthurian legend. It’s the first in a series that’s left me hungering for more' - Reader Review
'Bloody and brutal, 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
Dark Age Britain crumbles.
Cruel kings of Britain sit alone atop their hilltop fortresses as brutal Saxon invaders push ever forwards, greedy for plunder and weakened kingdoms to conquer.
Blood feuds, jealousy, and pride keeps these Kingdoms isolated. Only the Pendragon, Uther, the high king of kings, has the power to unite the armies of Britain against their common enemy. But Uther Pendragon refuses to march to war as the Saxon hordes under the bloodthirsty leadership of Lord Octha grow ever stronger, quashing all that stands in his way.
Arthur leads a solitary warband, searching wild and lawless badlands bringing the fight to the savage Saxon warlords. As war brews, Merlin stirs up legends of Arthur, Excalibur, and the old gods, kindling a spark of hope in men’s hearts to unite and fight back.
As Saxon armies mass for war and destruction, Arthur must embrace the legend.
Can he bring the Pendragon to war, and march with the force of Britain to crush the Saxon invaders?
It will take all of Merlin’s power, Arthur’s iron will, and the strength of Excalibur to win this epic battle for the future of Britain.
The continuation of the compelling, fast-paced series from bestselling writer Peter Gibbons. Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell.
Praise for Peter
'Bristling with intense action, this is the grounded and brutal retelling of Arthurian myth set in the grim landscape of Dark Age Britain.' - Richard Cullen
'A power house of a novel told with the pace of a charging war horse. Well rounded characters brought to vivid life in Britain's Dark Age. Not a book to be missed.' - Adam Lofthouse
'Riveting, page-turning action that shows Arthur growing from a frightened youngster into a confident warlord. A fresh new take on an old legend that readers will find hard to put down.' - Steven A McKay
'Epic, brutal action' - Matthew Harffy
'A gripping tale in which our distant British history is brought to life. A must-read for any Arthurian fan.' - Reader Review
'First class. I could not put this book down. Absolutely riveting. Action packed throughout. I eagerly await the next book in the series.' - Reader Review
'This was full of battles, violence, politics and is a fresh new take on Arthurian legend. It’s the first in a series that’s left me hungering for more' - Reader Review
'Bloody and brutal, 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
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 17, 2024
395 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Peter Gibbons
28 books261 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
July 24, 2025
4.25 stars
September 16, 2025
Another unbelievable read for me from Peter Gibbons. Arthur and his band of black-cloaked warriors has conquered again. It wasn’t an easy road for them to get there, but they gave the readers one heck of a story of how they rose above it all. I was totally thrilled to read the many action and fight scenes. They where detailed so well.
These scenes made my reading time go so fast. Then the story of Arthur had to travel across the number of noble lands to gather men to fight for Britons greater cause was compelling. The distrust and loyalty was astonishing.
Again, I loved it. Between all the political power struggle issues and loyalty to adversaries or foes it was the story of Balin and Balan was the most compelling of them all. You will get read a story that seems as similar to Kane and Abel. The anticipation between the characters own stories that had me on the edge to waiting for Balin and Balan story to be addressed. Talk about a sub-plot that was astonishing and passionate.
All the emotions that one could think of is what Balin experienced. It was Arthur his friend as well as fearless leader was the one to help Balin stay grounded and conquer what Balin’s personal mission for. The same could be said for Arthur. His leadership is one that had you a bit worried about the outcome of him and or how Briton would survive against the Saxons. The mythical tales and the factual history stories worked hand in hand with such a raw, emotional and challenging story.
I appreciate the writer for creating a story that is most fascinating and endearing. The characters made the story seem so real through the actions of raw emotions and dialogue. Merlin and his new friend Nimu are no other characters that you have read. Their strange methods at war play will keep you intrigued and surprised. If you like a brilliantly written story I would say read this book.
I give this two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
These scenes made my reading time go so fast. Then the story of Arthur had to travel across the number of noble lands to gather men to fight for Britons greater cause was compelling. The distrust and loyalty was astonishing.
Again, I loved it. Between all the political power struggle issues and loyalty to adversaries or foes it was the story of Balin and Balan was the most compelling of them all. You will get read a story that seems as similar to Kane and Abel. The anticipation between the characters own stories that had me on the edge to waiting for Balin and Balan story to be addressed. Talk about a sub-plot that was astonishing and passionate.
All the emotions that one could think of is what Balin experienced. It was Arthur his friend as well as fearless leader was the one to help Balin stay grounded and conquer what Balin’s personal mission for. The same could be said for Arthur. His leadership is one that had you a bit worried about the outcome of him and or how Briton would survive against the Saxons. The mythical tales and the factual history stories worked hand in hand with such a raw, emotional and challenging story.
I appreciate the writer for creating a story that is most fascinating and endearing. The characters made the story seem so real through the actions of raw emotions and dialogue. Merlin and his new friend Nimu are no other characters that you have read. Their strange methods at war play will keep you intrigued and surprised. If you like a brilliantly written story I would say read this book.
I give this two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
June 19, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC.
Peter Gibbons’ Pendragon delivers a gritty, immersive retelling of the Arthurian legend, blending myth and history into a fast-paced adventure that stands out in a crowded genre. Set in a fractured, war-torn Dark Age Britain, the novel focuses on Arthur’s struggle to unite the kingdoms against the relentless Saxon threat, with Merlin’s cunning manipulation and Uther’s reluctance adding layers of political intrigue.
Gibbons excels at making familiar characters like Arthur and Merlin feel both fresh and authentic, skillfully weaving their legendary traits with new, nuanced interpretations.
Fans of Bernard Cornwell and historical fantasy will find much to enjoy here.
Peter Gibbons’ Pendragon delivers a gritty, immersive retelling of the Arthurian legend, blending myth and history into a fast-paced adventure that stands out in a crowded genre. Set in a fractured, war-torn Dark Age Britain, the novel focuses on Arthur’s struggle to unite the kingdoms against the relentless Saxon threat, with Merlin’s cunning manipulation and Uther’s reluctance adding layers of political intrigue.
Gibbons excels at making familiar characters like Arthur and Merlin feel both fresh and authentic, skillfully weaving their legendary traits with new, nuanced interpretations.
Fans of Bernard Cornwell and historical fantasy will find much to enjoy here.
December 1, 2024
Pendragon is the second book in the The Chronicles of Arthur series by Peter Gibbons I stumbled happily upon the author about 2 years ago with the release of his Saxon Warrior series and I’ve been hooked on the authors works ever since.
The first book in the series nicely laid the foundations. Leaving the reader with almost a sense of dread in the pit of your stomach as you know things were starting to heat up.
I was keen to see how the author would build on the story and how he would find time to develop the characters in such a plot driven tale.
Saxon invaders are pushing through Britian laying waste to everything Arthur holds dear. Uther Pendragon has the might to bring down upon the invaders but sits by as war wages on.
Merlin...ah Merlin.. he’s a clever one and Gibbons expertly shows how he is able to manipulate not only the people around him but also Arthur. Merlin knows what he wants to happen and weaves the tales around Excalibur to excite Arthur, breathing hope into a world where it’s almost been lost.
Merlin is great manipulator, that’s his real power, and as the story unfolds you can see just how much the people of Britain need him. Don’t get me wrong Arthur is brilliant but without Merlin would the fight have been taken to the Saxons....They need each other and their skills complement each other.
In what I’ve come to expect and love from the author the story is fast paced but Gibbons effortlessly seems to be able to add the character development I need to truthly become invested in a series along with adding beautiful details throughout allowing you to envisage the time, location, the people. I really don’t understand how the author manages to weave such a well-rounded tale bringing all the different needs together, adding in his magic sparkle into such a heaving plot driven tale it’s a real talent to actually make the characters themselves come alive.. especially the likes of Arthur, Merlin and Uther.. I think most people will know of these characters, myths.. legends.. there’s a wealth of tales that have been told so credit to the author to not only make a story that feels fresh and new but at the same time comfortable.. it’s like Gibbons has masterfully brought together all the little traits and details of these characters throughout the years and has skilfully added his own impressions to make these individuals really come to life.
I’m not going to spoil the action aspects of the story but for fans of the genre it’s got everything you need... battle with plenty of blood to be spilt.. it’s a boiling pot of tension and exhaustion.
The plot is fascinating and captivating but balanced perfectly with the character ark, things naturally progress rather than being forced along, neither overshadows rather so they support each other.
Overall what always impresses me with Peter Gibbons is within a well-established genre he keeps offering something new that demands your every ounce of being from the first page.
The first book in the series nicely laid the foundations. Leaving the reader with almost a sense of dread in the pit of your stomach as you know things were starting to heat up.
I was keen to see how the author would build on the story and how he would find time to develop the characters in such a plot driven tale.
Saxon invaders are pushing through Britian laying waste to everything Arthur holds dear. Uther Pendragon has the might to bring down upon the invaders but sits by as war wages on.
Merlin...ah Merlin.. he’s a clever one and Gibbons expertly shows how he is able to manipulate not only the people around him but also Arthur. Merlin knows what he wants to happen and weaves the tales around Excalibur to excite Arthur, breathing hope into a world where it’s almost been lost.
Merlin is great manipulator, that’s his real power, and as the story unfolds you can see just how much the people of Britain need him. Don’t get me wrong Arthur is brilliant but without Merlin would the fight have been taken to the Saxons....They need each other and their skills complement each other.
In what I’ve come to expect and love from the author the story is fast paced but Gibbons effortlessly seems to be able to add the character development I need to truthly become invested in a series along with adding beautiful details throughout allowing you to envisage the time, location, the people. I really don’t understand how the author manages to weave such a well-rounded tale bringing all the different needs together, adding in his magic sparkle into such a heaving plot driven tale it’s a real talent to actually make the characters themselves come alive.. especially the likes of Arthur, Merlin and Uther.. I think most people will know of these characters, myths.. legends.. there’s a wealth of tales that have been told so credit to the author to not only make a story that feels fresh and new but at the same time comfortable.. it’s like Gibbons has masterfully brought together all the little traits and details of these characters throughout the years and has skilfully added his own impressions to make these individuals really come to life.
I’m not going to spoil the action aspects of the story but for fans of the genre it’s got everything you need... battle with plenty of blood to be spilt.. it’s a boiling pot of tension and exhaustion.
The plot is fascinating and captivating but balanced perfectly with the character ark, things naturally progress rather than being forced along, neither overshadows rather so they support each other.
Overall what always impresses me with Peter Gibbons is within a well-established genre he keeps offering something new that demands your every ounce of being from the first page.
November 20, 2024
This retelling of King Arthur is far more realistic than the mythical versions we’re used to. In this story, Arthur feels less like a larger-than-life legend and more like a real, flawed man. It’s a refreshing take that brings humanity to a figure often shrouded in myth and grandeur.
Peter Gibbons masterfully weaves myth and fiction with historical elements, crafting a story that’s gripping and immersive. The battles are brutally realistic, with vivid descriptions that make you feel like you’re standing in the middle of the action—like something out of a Hollywood epic or a historical documentary.
What I loved most was how Arthur isn’t the young boy who pulls a sword from the stone and magically becomes a beacon of hope and heroism. Instead, we see the political maneuvering behind his rise, especially Merlin’s manipulation to rally the people around him. Merlin, as a character, is fascinating—at times likable, at other times deeply unsettling, which makes him all the more compelling.
Even though I hadn’t read the first book in this series, this one stands perfectly on its own. If you’re a fan of historical adventures, you won’t want to miss it. It’s a captivating read that had me hooked from start to finish.
____________
Thanks to Boldwood Books, NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing me with an ARC of the book. All onions expressed are my own.
Peter Gibbons masterfully weaves myth and fiction with historical elements, crafting a story that’s gripping and immersive. The battles are brutally realistic, with vivid descriptions that make you feel like you’re standing in the middle of the action—like something out of a Hollywood epic or a historical documentary.
What I loved most was how Arthur isn’t the young boy who pulls a sword from the stone and magically becomes a beacon of hope and heroism. Instead, we see the political maneuvering behind his rise, especially Merlin’s manipulation to rally the people around him. Merlin, as a character, is fascinating—at times likable, at other times deeply unsettling, which makes him all the more compelling.
Even though I hadn’t read the first book in this series, this one stands perfectly on its own. If you’re a fan of historical adventures, you won’t want to miss it. It’s a captivating read that had me hooked from start to finish.
____________
Thanks to Boldwood Books, NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing me with an ARC of the book. All onions expressed are my own.
November 19, 2024
The second book in Peter Gibbons, The Arthurian Chronicles, Pendragon, was no less fascinating than the first!
This is historical fiction that kept me turning the pages. A retelling of King Arthur but with more reality than you would expect. Arthur is so vivid and definitely human in these books. Peter Gibbons has yet again created a story that entwines fact, fiction, and fables together in such a way that I couldn't tell where the facts ended and the fiction began.
The battles are depicted in all the brutality you would expect from this era. The action makes it a gripping read. I am getting used to this with Peter Gibbons writing. I always wonder if I will enjoy his newest book as much as his previous work. I don't even understand why I think like this! He always has the best 'recipe' to tick every box.
Pendragon swept me back in time so easily that I was unwilling to return to 2024 until I read every last word. I find I always learn something when I read historical fiction, and this makes me feel a little more educated with every book that I glean new facts from. Pendragon fulfilled that for me, too.
Such a rich and vivid instalment in this series. I am looking forward to his next book! Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the gifted ebook to write my honest review.
This is historical fiction that kept me turning the pages. A retelling of King Arthur but with more reality than you would expect. Arthur is so vivid and definitely human in these books. Peter Gibbons has yet again created a story that entwines fact, fiction, and fables together in such a way that I couldn't tell where the facts ended and the fiction began.
The battles are depicted in all the brutality you would expect from this era. The action makes it a gripping read. I am getting used to this with Peter Gibbons writing. I always wonder if I will enjoy his newest book as much as his previous work. I don't even understand why I think like this! He always has the best 'recipe' to tick every box.
Pendragon swept me back in time so easily that I was unwilling to return to 2024 until I read every last word. I find I always learn something when I read historical fiction, and this makes me feel a little more educated with every book that I glean new facts from. Pendragon fulfilled that for me, too.
Such a rich and vivid instalment in this series. I am looking forward to his next book! Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the gifted ebook to write my honest review.
January 12, 2025
In the second book in Peter Gibbons’ The Chronicles of Arthur series, readers explore the collapse of Dark Age Britain and the constant wars among Britain’s kings and against the Saxon invaders. With the only Pendragon, High King Uther, able to unite the armies and refusing to do so, the Saxon lords under Octha continue to advance and destroy the British kingdoms. With Arthur leading a single war band and bringing the fight to the Saxon warlords, readers join his camp as Merlin brings stories of Arthur, Excalibur, the old gods, and hope to those they meet along the way. With increasingly high stakes and wars on all fronts, readers will love the portrait of what Arthurian England might have been like that Gibbons brings to life in this fascinating and gritty historical fiction novel. The characters are the star of the novel, and readers will really appreciate and enjoy these interpretations of figures from Arthurian legend for their emotional complexity, relationships with other characters, and complex understandings of the politics and world they live in. Well-written and a fantastic sequel to continue the series, readers will love this gritty, detailed, and complex new historical fiction title about the mythical King Arthur.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
April 5, 2025
OK, I admit it - I'm a junkie for books about certain characters, Julius Caesar, Robin Hood and King Arthur among a couple of others. I'll read anything about them. Some are good, some aren't. This is one of the good ones.
This is Peter Gibbons second in a series of books about the possibly mythical King since we don't really know if he existed or not. If he did, he lived an exciting life. If he didn't, but was based upon a real character, that person lived an exciting life. If he's 100% fiction, you get what you expect, a character who lived a very exciting life.
Picking up where its predecessor, Excalibur, left off, we're treated to almost non-stop action as Arthur goes up against the dreaded Saxon hordes. In some books, Pendragon is Arthur's last name; however, Gibbons chooses to make the Pendragon a title - the king of all the country and only Uther, the Pendragon has the power to unite all the kingdoms, something he won't do. This obviously is the major story line of the book.
Add to all this, a love affair with Guinevere and you have a fun, fast-paced, bloody, battle-filled read guaranteed to keep you entertained and hoping its not a long wait for the third installment!
If historical novels of this period are your thing, pick up Excalibur and Pendragon - you won't be sorry!
This is Peter Gibbons second in a series of books about the possibly mythical King since we don't really know if he existed or not. If he did, he lived an exciting life. If he didn't, but was based upon a real character, that person lived an exciting life. If he's 100% fiction, you get what you expect, a character who lived a very exciting life.
Picking up where its predecessor, Excalibur, left off, we're treated to almost non-stop action as Arthur goes up against the dreaded Saxon hordes. In some books, Pendragon is Arthur's last name; however, Gibbons chooses to make the Pendragon a title - the king of all the country and only Uther, the Pendragon has the power to unite all the kingdoms, something he won't do. This obviously is the major story line of the book.
Add to all this, a love affair with Guinevere and you have a fun, fast-paced, bloody, battle-filled read guaranteed to keep you entertained and hoping its not a long wait for the third installment!
If historical novels of this period are your thing, pick up Excalibur and Pendragon - you won't be sorry!
March 6, 2025
Different Twist on the Legend
This was another retelling of the Arthurian Legend.
II rated Excalibur 5 Stars and had high expectations for this second novel, but it failed to build a more complete and vivid story.
Candidly, I was bored.
The characters never were fully developed.
The author made Arthur weak, indecisive and simply, a flawed figure forced to do something he didn't choose.
The relationship itch Gueniviere was never development there was a complete lack of the depth and comradery that traditionally had been written about Lancelot and his closest warriors.
Arthur searched for his sister for the greater part of both novels and when found, she was gone in just a few pages with a very abrupt ending.
See what you think.
I gave the book 4 Stars because I appreciate the effort in writing these books, but I won't be reading the next novel.
This was another retelling of the Arthurian Legend.
II rated Excalibur 5 Stars and had high expectations for this second novel, but it failed to build a more complete and vivid story.
Candidly, I was bored.
The characters never were fully developed.
The author made Arthur weak, indecisive and simply, a flawed figure forced to do something he didn't choose.
The relationship itch Gueniviere was never development there was a complete lack of the depth and comradery that traditionally had been written about Lancelot and his closest warriors.
Arthur searched for his sister for the greater part of both novels and when found, she was gone in just a few pages with a very abrupt ending.
See what you think.
I gave the book 4 Stars because I appreciate the effort in writing these books, but I won't be reading the next novel.
November 16, 2024
I appreciate how this story mixes myth, fantasy, and historical fiction keeping the barbaric parts and the darkness which plays an important part in the Arthurian cycle.
Arthur is not the knight in shining armour, the symbol of all that was great and good in being a knight. Merlin is great manipulator and able to make people hope in a sort of messianic king and a better future.
The Arthur/Merlin relationship made me think of Dune and how the Kwisatz Aderach is a mix of things and there's a specific goal.
This is a fast paced and action-packed novels, a page turner that keeps you reading till you turn the last page.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Arthur is not the knight in shining armour, the symbol of all that was great and good in being a knight. Merlin is great manipulator and able to make people hope in a sort of messianic king and a better future.
The Arthur/Merlin relationship made me think of Dune and how the Kwisatz Aderach is a mix of things and there's a specific goal.
This is a fast paced and action-packed novels, a page turner that keeps you reading till you turn the last page.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for this ARC, all opinions are mine
November 4, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this second book in the series! I had a little trouble with the first book holding my attention, but "Pendragon" moves at a decent clip with action deserving of a warlord. It's interesting to see how the author brings in the different aspects of Arthur and his cohorts and if you know the stories of King Arthur and Camelot you get a thrill at piecing things together while these new writings unfold. It's also fun to figure out where all the ancient names relate to, especially if you're a diehard Celt/Briton/Pict & Viking like me. I highly recommend this read for all King Arthur and Historical enthusiasts!
December 2, 2024
Spoiler Alert: Unlike the myths and usual fantasy stories on the morally and ethically upright King Arthur, I find this story is more interesting. It reveals the darker side of Arthur with what he did to Princess Morgan and also challenging to combat and killing an older man ( Uthet ) who could have been his father. It also shows that he does not object to manipulation by Merlin, lying about Excalibur, as long as it furthers his own aims. One downside to the book is the map is not detailed enough, and readers like me, not familiar with older English names and towns, cannot picture where the specific towns and battles occurred.
November 18, 2024
This is the second book in the series and it helps to have read the first, Excalibur. It's a retelling of Arthur and Merlin and keeps to the fables whilst detailing the great battles. Some of the myths are explained as hype to get the people behind the people's champion. Arthur's treatment of Morgan made me loose my sympathy for Arthur and I would have hoped in the modern day there would have been a way to re-tell that part of the story. I mean, if there is a way around excaliber coming from a stone, surely there is a way to tell the women's stories so they are not just pawns.
October 20, 2024
The second instalment in the series follows Arthur across Britain in search of his destiny. The book is one of Britain trying to fight back against the Saxon hoards from across the sea, with Arthur right in the thick of it. Bravery, betrayal, magic, brotherhood abut above all, love. In true Gibbons fashion, heavy on the battle depictions with no filter on the details! Fantastic!
A great read from start to finish and I can’t wait for the next one.
A great read from start to finish and I can’t wait for the next one.
January 31, 2025
Hmmm ... I'm not too sure what to make of this one.
The second in a series of books about (King) Arthur, this to me felt very much like the author was aiming for a Bernard CornwellBernard Cornwell style of story.
Which, in itself, is no bad thing.
However, I did find this a bit slower than the previous entry in the series (Excalibur), perhaps because I wasn't in the right head-space whilst reading this?
I'm not sure, but there you have it.
I'll still probably read more of the series, although I'm not convinced I'll be hunting them out.
The second in a series of books about (King) Arthur, this to me felt very much like the author was aiming for a Bernard CornwellBernard Cornwell style of story.
Which, in itself, is no bad thing.
However, I did find this a bit slower than the previous entry in the series (Excalibur), perhaps because I wasn't in the right head-space whilst reading this?
I'm not sure, but there you have it.
I'll still probably read more of the series, although I'm not convinced I'll be hunting them out.
July 26, 2025
Solid book #2 in Peter Gibbons rendition of the mythical King Author. We see Author rise to the status of the Pendragon, continue to feel Merlin's near magic, and meet Sir Lancelot for the first time. I like how the author doesn't shy away from the truths of this time period. Blood and more blood. No remorse. Little regard for those conquered. The storytelling also translates well to the audible format. I will read (or listen) on when the next book is released.
November 29, 2024
Pendragon
I am in my 70's, and ever since I was a child have enjoyed stories about Arthur of Britain. I began with Excalibur and then moved on to Pendragon. Both were excellent and kept me turning pages. The legend of Arthur is fascinating. I plan on reading future installments in this series. Thank you, Mr. Gibbons.
I am in my 70's, and ever since I was a child have enjoyed stories about Arthur of Britain. I began with Excalibur and then moved on to Pendragon. Both were excellent and kept me turning pages. The legend of Arthur is fascinating. I plan on reading future installments in this series. Thank you, Mr. Gibbons.
December 24, 2024
Gritty page turner
Engrossing story line encompassing the familiar characters of the Arthurian legend combined with historical and geographic realness to make a believable story that will have you longing for more. Great battle scenes amid the drama of human emotions and complex struggles for love and honor.
Engrossing story line encompassing the familiar characters of the Arthurian legend combined with historical and geographic realness to make a believable story that will have you longing for more. Great battle scenes amid the drama of human emotions and complex struggles for love and honor.
December 28, 2024
ymlain Gyumri
Nice read about history from a Welsh perspective and to understand the before the Anglo Saxon turned it into a Kingdom of their own and to understand we were a stand alone nation and NOT a principality for a king to govern before he ascended to the Throne of Britain .
Nice read about history from a Welsh perspective and to understand the before the Anglo Saxon turned it into a Kingdom of their own and to understand we were a stand alone nation and NOT a principality for a king to govern before he ascended to the Throne of Britain .
December 30, 2024
This well written book is filled with non stop action and gore. Arthur is earning his place, and once becoming Pendragon, the legend continues to grow! I find it refreshing that Mr. Gibbons deviates slightly from the Arthurian stories that are out there. He sticks to the main points, but throws in some different twists! I look forward to the next in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2025
I enjoyed the first book in the series, and while this one was good, it didn't quite match up to Excalibur. On the plus side this series of Arthur is more grounded in realism and a world away from the idealised version most people know. Did someone called Arthur become the leader of the British tribes and delay the Saxon invasion is still up for debate but it is fun to speculate.
July 3, 2025
YOU ARE THERE AT ARTHUR’S SHOULDER
What Great Writing!!!!
You are in the halls of power dealing with recalcitrant Kings sitting on Arthur’s shoulders! You are there beside Arthur during the myriad battles with the Saxons!
Peter Gibbons is a masterful writer who has that unique ability to keep you involved and enthralled!
What Great Writing!!!!
You are in the halls of power dealing with recalcitrant Kings sitting on Arthur’s shoulders! You are there beside Arthur during the myriad battles with the Saxons!
Peter Gibbons is a masterful writer who has that unique ability to keep you involved and enthralled!
August 11, 2025
Intriguing Arthurian fiction
If you like the Arthurian legends, then you will enjoy this thrilling addition to the library of medieval warfare and historical fiction. Arthur finally becomes Pendragon and leads the Britons against the Saxons. However, he also loses part of himself.
If you like the Arthurian legends, then you will enjoy this thrilling addition to the library of medieval warfare and historical fiction. Arthur finally becomes Pendragon and leads the Britons against the Saxons. However, he also loses part of himself.
November 11, 2024
"Pendragon" by Peter Gibbons: Gibbons shows well the duplicitous and contentious nature of the kings of the British Celts, puts a spin on Arthur's love life and Lancelot. Arthur is a poor tactician and leader, who is a legend only due to Merlin's skills as a bard.
November 30, 2024
Cracking read.
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗 moons.
Totally absorbing from start to finish; a heady mix of mythology and mayhem buoys the reader through a compelling take as Arthur rises from spearman to…..
well, you’re just gonna have to read the book.
Now the wait for part 3….
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗 moons.
Totally absorbing from start to finish; a heady mix of mythology and mayhem buoys the reader through a compelling take as Arthur rises from spearman to…..
well, you’re just gonna have to read the book.
Now the wait for part 3….
December 20, 2024
Absolutely loved this book from start to finish, Peter never lets you down with all the action packed violence and story telling, the only issue I had with this book was that it ended so looking forward to the next saga. For me Peter Gibbons is the best medieval author out there at the moment.
January 19, 2025
WOW
The battle scenes will leave you breathless. Arthur comes face to face with the reality of what it means to be the last hope of Britain and the loneliness and sacrifices it requires.
Excellent story.
The battle scenes will leave you breathless. Arthur comes face to face with the reality of what it means to be the last hope of Britain and the loneliness and sacrifices it requires.
Excellent story.
February 3, 2025
Great read
Another really enjoyable read from Peter Gibbons. If you like your historical fiction with battles and well known characters then you should enjoy this book after you read book 1
Another really enjoyable read from Peter Gibbons. If you like your historical fiction with battles and well known characters then you should enjoy this book after you read book 1
March 2, 2025
History Rewritten
This is an interesting take on the myth of Arthur. In many ways it is more realistic of the time in history. I. Thoroughly enjoyed the story and look forward to the next installment.
This is an interesting take on the myth of Arthur. In many ways it is more realistic of the time in history. I. Thoroughly enjoyed the story and look forward to the next installment.
August 14, 2025
Superb Interpretation of the Arthurian Legends
I’ve been a fan of Arthurian stories for well over 60 years. I’m also a (much more recent) fan of Peter Gibbons. So I was bound to give it a try. So glad I did. It’s simply brilliant!
I’ve been a fan of Arthurian stories for well over 60 years. I’m also a (much more recent) fan of Peter Gibbons. So I was bound to give it a try. So glad I did. It’s simply brilliant!
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