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The Forest Lord #2
The Wolf and the Raven
In the aftermath of a violent rebellion Robin Hood and his men must fight for survival with an enemy deadlier than any they've faced before...
1322. England is in disarray and Sir Guy of Gisbourne, the king's own bounty hunter, stalks the greenwood, bringing bloody justice to the outlaws and rebels who hide there.
When things begin to go horribly wrong self-pity, grief and despair threaten to overwhelm the young wolf's head who will need the support of his friends and family now more than ever. But Robin's friends have troubles of their own and, this time, not all of them will escape with their lives...
Violence, betrayal, brutality and death come to vivid life in The Wolf and the Raven, the brilliant sequel to Amazon's “War” chart number 1, Wolf's Head.
Praise for Wolf's Head
“McKay's gift as a storyteller pulls the reader into a world of violence, passion, injustice and revenge and leaves us wanting more!” Glyn Iliffe, author, The Adventures of Odysseus series
“Reading this book, I felt as if I was transported back to medieval times...the good, the bad and the ugly. This is a thrilling read that kept me captivated from start to finish.” Bibliophile Book Reviews
“...the story is exciting and invites the reader to sit back and enjoy the journey through the forests and villages of northern England.” Hoover Book Reviews
“Wolf's Head took my breath away.” Indian Book Reviews
1322. England is in disarray and Sir Guy of Gisbourne, the king's own bounty hunter, stalks the greenwood, bringing bloody justice to the outlaws and rebels who hide there.
When things begin to go horribly wrong self-pity, grief and despair threaten to overwhelm the young wolf's head who will need the support of his friends and family now more than ever. But Robin's friends have troubles of their own and, this time, not all of them will escape with their lives...
Violence, betrayal, brutality and death come to vivid life in The Wolf and the Raven, the brilliant sequel to Amazon's “War” chart number 1, Wolf's Head.
Praise for Wolf's Head
“McKay's gift as a storyteller pulls the reader into a world of violence, passion, injustice and revenge and leaves us wanting more!” Glyn Iliffe, author, The Adventures of Odysseus series
“Reading this book, I felt as if I was transported back to medieval times...the good, the bad and the ugly. This is a thrilling read that kept me captivated from start to finish.” Bibliophile Book Reviews
“...the story is exciting and invites the reader to sit back and enjoy the journey through the forests and villages of northern England.” Hoover Book Reviews
“Wolf's Head took my breath away.” Indian Book Reviews
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2014
261 people are currently reading
1460 people want to read
About the author
Steven A. McKay
52 books446 followersI was born in 1977, near Glasgow in Scotland and live in Old Kilpatrick with my wife and two young children. After obtaining my Bachelor of Arts degree I decided to follow my life-long ambition and write a novel. The Forest Lord series now has four novels, and various short spin-off tales.
My new book "The Heathen Horde" is the first in a brand series following Alfred the Great. It comes out on October 26 2023 so please check it out and pre-order if you can!
I play guitar and write all my books while listening to extreme metal.
In 2022 I started a podcast with fellow historical author Matthew Harffy. You can subscribe to Rock, Paper, Swords! on all the usual podcast outlets and also find the audio on Youtube every fortnight.
My new book "The Heathen Horde" is the first in a brand series following Alfred the Great. It comes out on October 26 2023 so please check it out and pre-order if you can!
I play guitar and write all my books while listening to extreme metal.
In 2022 I started a podcast with fellow historical author Matthew Harffy. You can subscribe to Rock, Paper, Swords! on all the usual podcast outlets and also find the audio on Youtube every fortnight.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
February 4, 2015
Much improved. Much, much improved.
Last year I received this book, and the one before it, for review. I only read one or two Indie books a year now and it was only because this author has really established himself a reputation for professionalism, that I decided to accept the books for review.
The first book I was lukewarm on. It was okay. A lot better than I had thought it would be, but it had its problems, as do most debut books.
In my review of Wolf's Head, I think I mentioned that the bones were there and experience as a writer would probably see the second book (and those that follow it) showing an improved maturity to Steven's writing.
This year I have tackled this second book by Steven A. McKay and I am happy to say that my prediction was right.
The author has cast off the confines of his first story restraints and written a very decent book.
The characters read with more maturity, the writing is getting stronger, the adventure is abundant.
I've said this before, and what the heck, I'll say it again...First books can be a real skeleton in the closet with authors if they span too long a breadth of time. They start them in highschool, University or early in their working lives, then come back to them later on, as a different person wanting to 'finally finish that novel they once wrote'.
They are not the same person as they were when they started the book, and, nine times out of ten, I feel this in debuts. And I felt that in the first book by Steven A. McKay. But those traces are long gone now. Unlike the first book, this book doesn't feel like it is written by two or three different people.
One of Steven's strengths in this book is always keeping that wheel turning. There is no down time for his characters where you find yourselves wanting something to happen. As soon as his characters do something, have adventure, get themselves in strife, they are back on their feet getting stuck into it again.
I like an author who can do this without making the book read in a restless manner.
Flaws. Well, there are a couple, but they are not something that should put you off trying this book. I feel that while the author is really showing maturity now and writing with more skill, it is inconsistent. From time to time some parts do make me cringe a little.
I do not think they will affect your enjoyment of this book, it is just the growing pains of an author who is honing his craft.
(3.5 stars. Since this is Goodreads and we don't get half stars. 4 stars)
Last year I received this book, and the one before it, for review. I only read one or two Indie books a year now and it was only because this author has really established himself a reputation for professionalism, that I decided to accept the books for review.
The first book I was lukewarm on. It was okay. A lot better than I had thought it would be, but it had its problems, as do most debut books.
In my review of Wolf's Head, I think I mentioned that the bones were there and experience as a writer would probably see the second book (and those that follow it) showing an improved maturity to Steven's writing.
This year I have tackled this second book by Steven A. McKay and I am happy to say that my prediction was right.
The author has cast off the confines of his first story restraints and written a very decent book.
The characters read with more maturity, the writing is getting stronger, the adventure is abundant.
I've said this before, and what the heck, I'll say it again...First books can be a real skeleton in the closet with authors if they span too long a breadth of time. They start them in highschool, University or early in their working lives, then come back to them later on, as a different person wanting to 'finally finish that novel they once wrote'.
They are not the same person as they were when they started the book, and, nine times out of ten, I feel this in debuts. And I felt that in the first book by Steven A. McKay. But those traces are long gone now. Unlike the first book, this book doesn't feel like it is written by two or three different people.
One of Steven's strengths in this book is always keeping that wheel turning. There is no down time for his characters where you find yourselves wanting something to happen. As soon as his characters do something, have adventure, get themselves in strife, they are back on their feet getting stuck into it again.
I like an author who can do this without making the book read in a restless manner.
Flaws. Well, there are a couple, but they are not something that should put you off trying this book. I feel that while the author is really showing maturity now and writing with more skill, it is inconsistent. From time to time some parts do make me cringe a little.
I do not think they will affect your enjoyment of this book, it is just the growing pains of an author who is honing his craft.
(3.5 stars. Since this is Goodreads and we don't get half stars. 4 stars)
May 28, 2020
This excellent sequel is the 2nd volume of "The Forest Lord" series, featuring Robin Hood, from the great author, Steven A. McKay.
Historical details concerning this book can be found at the end of the book within the Author's Note, where they are very well documented and explained by the author.
Once more is the story-telling from this author of a superb quality, the historical atmosphere and times come beautifully off the pages, and all characters, real historical or great fictional, come vividly to life within this medieval tale.
The story starts off when Civil War erupts at the battle of Boroughbridge, Yorkshire, on the 16th March, AD 1322, when King Edward II's forces, led by Sir Andrew Harclay, will achieve a massive victory over the forces led by the Earl, Thomas of Lancaster, who's a cousin of the King, but who will be executed for his rebellion, along with a lot of other nobels.
Robin Hood and his men are also at this Battle, where they are routed, and they are forced to flee from the battlefield into the forest to save themselves from the forces of King Edward II, and especially from the Royal bounty-hunter, Sir Guy of Gisbourne, nicknamed the Raven.
With England in turmoil, King Edward II and the Despensers are dealing with rebellious Barons and Earls in their own murderous way, and in this environment Robin Hood must try to stay alert if he wants to remain free from the clutches of Sir Guy of Gisbourne and from treachery by someone within his own faction.
What is to follow is a fantastic read with lifelike and believable exciting historical events, where life and death, loyalty and betrayal, and heroism and murder go hand in hand, and where our main protagonist, Robin Hood, and his band of Outlaws must fight their way through a lot of obstacles and desperate situations, in their efforts to remain free and to live for another day.
Highly recommended, for this is for certain another fabulous and exciting book, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Marvellous Robin Hood Continuation"!
Historical details concerning this book can be found at the end of the book within the Author's Note, where they are very well documented and explained by the author.
Once more is the story-telling from this author of a superb quality, the historical atmosphere and times come beautifully off the pages, and all characters, real historical or great fictional, come vividly to life within this medieval tale.
The story starts off when Civil War erupts at the battle of Boroughbridge, Yorkshire, on the 16th March, AD 1322, when King Edward II's forces, led by Sir Andrew Harclay, will achieve a massive victory over the forces led by the Earl, Thomas of Lancaster, who's a cousin of the King, but who will be executed for his rebellion, along with a lot of other nobels.
Robin Hood and his men are also at this Battle, where they are routed, and they are forced to flee from the battlefield into the forest to save themselves from the forces of King Edward II, and especially from the Royal bounty-hunter, Sir Guy of Gisbourne, nicknamed the Raven.
With England in turmoil, King Edward II and the Despensers are dealing with rebellious Barons and Earls in their own murderous way, and in this environment Robin Hood must try to stay alert if he wants to remain free from the clutches of Sir Guy of Gisbourne and from treachery by someone within his own faction.
What is to follow is a fantastic read with lifelike and believable exciting historical events, where life and death, loyalty and betrayal, and heroism and murder go hand in hand, and where our main protagonist, Robin Hood, and his band of Outlaws must fight their way through a lot of obstacles and desperate situations, in their efforts to remain free and to live for another day.
Highly recommended, for this is for certain another fabulous and exciting book, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Marvellous Robin Hood Continuation"!
February 26, 2015
A ripping yarn better than the first one, looking forward to the next.
March 30, 2014
The Lancastrian revolt is over. Those who opposed the King are now outlaws and are being pursued with a vengeance. This is especially true for Robin and his men as they are once more wolf’s heads high on the list of the King’s main huntsman, Sir Guy Gisbourne; The Raven. In this, the second volume in Steven McKay’s series on the famed outlaw, the author has crafted a tale of intrigue, bravery and betrayal. He has also continued the development of his characters, the old and the new. In particular his portrayals of Little John and Will Scarlet have gone up a notch as they help Robin overcome some very nasty treatment at the hands of Sir Guy; one of the new characters who the author has imbued with a streak of super-villain like viciousness.
The action is exciting, well thought out and is interspersed with many touching scenes…e.g. Sir Richard at Lee and his captor, a relative nobody from the village. The detailed descriptions of the forest scenes lend a nice touch to this exciting sequel. I heartily recommend this series and look forward to the third book. My rating for this is 4.7.
June 24, 2015
Okay so here goes.. book number two.. high hopes after the first instalment. The pressure was on to deliver!! And boy did this book do that!
So from the synopsis you can gather the revolt didn’t go well. We are thrust straight into the action with Robin and the other rebels fighting against the king’s men. When Robin sees the war is over he orders his men back to the forest.
We see Robin beaten, men killed, imprisonments, executions the works. There is a lot of meat on the bone sin this book and it makes it a very good read indeed.
Personally I feel this book is much darker than the first and even though I gave the first book 5* the author raised the standard!
Now I guess you want to know a little about the story.. well honestly if I told you anything I think it would spoil it. There’s so much happens that I want to tell you but you need to read it for yourself.
By far the best thing about the book is the development. The author has clearly developed the characters since the first book. Yes some characters only play small parts in this book but you can’t have everything.
Another thing I really liked about this tale was that things don’t always go Robin’s way. He’s beaten and broken, physically and mentally and there are a few moments you feel Robin may just give up.
I author had me wondering if even Robin would survive to make it to book number 3!
In this book we see the addition of Sir Guy of Gisborne.. turns out he’s more of an evil b*****d than I thought he would be! Wow. Ruthless doesn’t cut it.
We also see a very interesting tale with Sir Richard the Templar knight develop with the action moving from one point of view to another.
I think Steven took some risks with this book, certain characters meet their end and I honestly thought no way would he kill those characters off…. But he did.. and it works. It more development of Robin could happen as you can see him struggling with the events that unfold and you see another side to the man.
As a fan of audio books I also listened to this book while reading along. I guess this would be my only comment for the author. I didn’t much like the narrators voice. He didn’t emphasize words enough or put emotion into his voice. Overall I thought he was just too quiet for my liking but saying that, it’s just my opinion. It wouldn’t put me off audio at all… I just wanted more from the narrator.
Overall this book is top notch. The whole setup of the book is well planned to keep the reader engaged and it surpasses all expectations after the first book and I’m looking forward to seeing the direction Steven’s work will take after book 3 is released.
July 28, 2014
Not trying to be funny or anything but do the early chapters of this book seem to suffer from, to use the technical term, the ‘wibbly-wobbly’? Maybe it’s just me and, given the ballads of RH pay no attention to the concept of ‘time and space’, this quibble can be passed over. Tighter proofing might be in order: eg. when “brown eyes sparkling” becomes “green eyes shining” on the very next page. Then again that might be due to a trick of the (fire)light.
Minor nitpicking aside McKay has once again delivered a cracking good read. There is nice character development and attention to historical detail. There are a few elements of the story I disagreed with –– but again, minor quibbles.
Overall McKay is doing a brilliant job of breathing new life into the myth. I think it wonderful that the trilogy is to be expanded to tetralogy.
Minor nitpicking aside McKay has once again delivered a cracking good read. There is nice character development and attention to historical detail. There are a few elements of the story I disagreed with –– but again, minor quibbles.
Overall McKay is doing a brilliant job of breathing new life into the myth. I think it wonderful that the trilogy is to be expanded to tetralogy.
March 1, 2016
Second in the series and not only as good as the first but better.
With the Rebellion crushed and Robin's (and gang) chance at a pardon along with it, it's back to the Greenwood for our hero, but this time with an implacable bad guy on the trail of the outlaws!
With great action sequences, leading to real tests for our hero's this is a much leaner and harder book.....but as always with the denizens of the Greenwood there is a chance at some humour (with a most unusual prison break and a unique way of keeping guards busy!) The best thing about these books is however that Robin feels like a real person, not just some cut and paste hero. Looking forward to book three!
With the Rebellion crushed and Robin's (and gang) chance at a pardon along with it, it's back to the Greenwood for our hero, but this time with an implacable bad guy on the trail of the outlaws!
With great action sequences, leading to real tests for our hero's this is a much leaner and harder book.....but as always with the denizens of the Greenwood there is a chance at some humour (with a most unusual prison break and a unique way of keeping guards busy!) The best thing about these books is however that Robin feels like a real person, not just some cut and paste hero. Looking forward to book three!
June 5, 2014
Steven A. McKay who is fast becoming Scotland's answer to Bernard Cornwell first came to my attention with his version of the Robin Hood legend in his excellent and hugely entertaining book Wolf's Head: The Forest Lord, which put a wonderfully refreshing spin on the classic tale by relocating the outlaw from Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire to Barnsdale Forest in Yorkshire and has breathed new life into an old story.
The first book ended with Robin and his band of outlaws being offered the chance to earn a pardon for their crimes which would allow them to reclaim their former lives, a prospect they are all keen to grasp with both hands. The attractions of sleeping rough week after week far from home and loved ones had paled, and with Robin's young wife Matilda (not Maid Marion) heavily pregnant with their first child he is desperate to cast off his mantle of outlaw and return home to create the family life he craves. This book, The Wolf and The Raven, continues that story.
From the very first line the reader is plunged headlong into the carnage and chaos of medieval warfare as Robert and his men (lovers of the legend can rest assured that they will find all the regular characters here: Little John, Will Scarlet, Friar Tuck, Much the Millar's son et al.) find themselves fighting for their lives in the service of Thomas Plantagenet, Earl of Lancaster at the battle of Boroughbridge on the 16th of March 1322. The battle, part of a rebellion of various Marcher Lords led by Lancaster against King Edward II, ends in disaster for the rebels and Robin and his band are forced to flee for their lives once more. Back in the forests they are forced to face the realisation that their hoped for pardons are gone like chaff on the wind while Edward II takes his bloody revenge on those who dared challenge him.
That revenge is not only focused on those who were in command but extends to take in the poor serfs and tenants who were forced to take part in war through circumstance and fealty to various landowners. To find and crush these broken men Edward calls on the services of a man who will become Robin's nemesis. His name: Sir Guy of Gisbourne.
The Gisbourne of this book quickly becomes one of the great villains of fiction: a man of twisted desires and dreams who has suffered heartbreak and betrayal himself through the actions of his adulterous wife. Her betrayal coupled with his childhood fascination with the tales of King Arthur have convinced him he is almost the reincarnation of Lancelot and while he is a brutal, ruthless killer you can't help but feel that there is a weird sort of chivalry at the dark heart of everything Gisbourne does. Women are to be protected (despite his wife's adultery) while the enemies of the king can be killed without thought or mercy!
As though the worry of being pursued by this sinister figure, quickly nicknamed The Raven by intimidated commoners for his black clothing and armour, wasn't enough of a problem, Robin and his men also have to deal with other bands of broken men who haunt the forest and create fresh worries for them by preying on the villagers which they depend upon for support and supplies. Indeed Robin has to spend as much time fighting these bands as he does the king's men! Blood is spilled on all sides and not everyone will emerge unscathed from the carnage which ensues. Add to this the constant risk of betrayal and you have a tense atmosphere which pervades the whole book.
One aspect of this book which I particularly enjoyed is that the author allows the scope to spread beyond the narrow confines of the outlaw camp to take in aspects of the lives of both the common folk in the villages and also those who live in castles. Indeed, a large part of the book is taken up with the story of Robin's friend and ally Sir Richard-at-Lees who, along with his loyal sergeant Stephen, become larger characters who bring fresh breadth to the tale. Sir Richard, besieged by Royalist forces, sends Stephen to the head of his Hospitaller order at Clerkenwell for assistance but any notion of loyalty between these knights of the Black Cross is in vain. Foul murder is ordered and carried out only for the killer to be betrayed by the very man who gave the order. Everyone, it becomes clear, is looking after number one and the lives of friends and brothers in arms can be thrown away to protect dark secrets. I have a feeling these dark secrets may play a further role in future books. I hope so as I do want to see the Grand Prior of Clerkenwell on the end of something sharp!
While The Wolf and The Raven can be at times a dark and violent read with language which some may find a little strong, it is not without humour, such as the barber/surgeon in the village of Penyston who may have just invented Buckfast (a drink much beloved by modern day serfs and villiens in today's broken Britain) and Friar Tuck's unusual suggestion on the best way to distract guards on a city gate! The humour is welcome as Robin faces his darkest fears and feels crushed by self doubt after an awful experience at the hands of Gisbourne while prisoner in Nottingham Castle. This is as close as our hero will ever come to absolute despair and self pity, which threatens to drag the entire band of outlaws down into his malaise with him. It is only tough love from old friends which forces Robin to face the future and regain his old heart and courage. He will need both before the end.
The climatic scene of this book is almost Arthurian itself as Robin faces Gisbourne, a self-created modern Black Knight in single combat on a bridge. Blood will be shed and the result is not what most will hope for but does leave things wide open for the story to continue in book three.
This is a recommended read for all those who enjoy a grown-up tale of adventure and daring-do with an unflinching approach to medieval life and death.
Personally I cannot wait to discover what delights Steven A. McKay will deliver next time.
The first book ended with Robin and his band of outlaws being offered the chance to earn a pardon for their crimes which would allow them to reclaim their former lives, a prospect they are all keen to grasp with both hands. The attractions of sleeping rough week after week far from home and loved ones had paled, and with Robin's young wife Matilda (not Maid Marion) heavily pregnant with their first child he is desperate to cast off his mantle of outlaw and return home to create the family life he craves. This book, The Wolf and The Raven, continues that story.
From the very first line the reader is plunged headlong into the carnage and chaos of medieval warfare as Robert and his men (lovers of the legend can rest assured that they will find all the regular characters here: Little John, Will Scarlet, Friar Tuck, Much the Millar's son et al.) find themselves fighting for their lives in the service of Thomas Plantagenet, Earl of Lancaster at the battle of Boroughbridge on the 16th of March 1322. The battle, part of a rebellion of various Marcher Lords led by Lancaster against King Edward II, ends in disaster for the rebels and Robin and his band are forced to flee for their lives once more. Back in the forests they are forced to face the realisation that their hoped for pardons are gone like chaff on the wind while Edward II takes his bloody revenge on those who dared challenge him.
That revenge is not only focused on those who were in command but extends to take in the poor serfs and tenants who were forced to take part in war through circumstance and fealty to various landowners. To find and crush these broken men Edward calls on the services of a man who will become Robin's nemesis. His name: Sir Guy of Gisbourne.
The Gisbourne of this book quickly becomes one of the great villains of fiction: a man of twisted desires and dreams who has suffered heartbreak and betrayal himself through the actions of his adulterous wife. Her betrayal coupled with his childhood fascination with the tales of King Arthur have convinced him he is almost the reincarnation of Lancelot and while he is a brutal, ruthless killer you can't help but feel that there is a weird sort of chivalry at the dark heart of everything Gisbourne does. Women are to be protected (despite his wife's adultery) while the enemies of the king can be killed without thought or mercy!
As though the worry of being pursued by this sinister figure, quickly nicknamed The Raven by intimidated commoners for his black clothing and armour, wasn't enough of a problem, Robin and his men also have to deal with other bands of broken men who haunt the forest and create fresh worries for them by preying on the villagers which they depend upon for support and supplies. Indeed Robin has to spend as much time fighting these bands as he does the king's men! Blood is spilled on all sides and not everyone will emerge unscathed from the carnage which ensues. Add to this the constant risk of betrayal and you have a tense atmosphere which pervades the whole book.
One aspect of this book which I particularly enjoyed is that the author allows the scope to spread beyond the narrow confines of the outlaw camp to take in aspects of the lives of both the common folk in the villages and also those who live in castles. Indeed, a large part of the book is taken up with the story of Robin's friend and ally Sir Richard-at-Lees who, along with his loyal sergeant Stephen, become larger characters who bring fresh breadth to the tale. Sir Richard, besieged by Royalist forces, sends Stephen to the head of his Hospitaller order at Clerkenwell for assistance but any notion of loyalty between these knights of the Black Cross is in vain. Foul murder is ordered and carried out only for the killer to be betrayed by the very man who gave the order. Everyone, it becomes clear, is looking after number one and the lives of friends and brothers in arms can be thrown away to protect dark secrets. I have a feeling these dark secrets may play a further role in future books. I hope so as I do want to see the Grand Prior of Clerkenwell on the end of something sharp!
While The Wolf and The Raven can be at times a dark and violent read with language which some may find a little strong, it is not without humour, such as the barber/surgeon in the village of Penyston who may have just invented Buckfast (a drink much beloved by modern day serfs and villiens in today's broken Britain) and Friar Tuck's unusual suggestion on the best way to distract guards on a city gate! The humour is welcome as Robin faces his darkest fears and feels crushed by self doubt after an awful experience at the hands of Gisbourne while prisoner in Nottingham Castle. This is as close as our hero will ever come to absolute despair and self pity, which threatens to drag the entire band of outlaws down into his malaise with him. It is only tough love from old friends which forces Robin to face the future and regain his old heart and courage. He will need both before the end.
The climatic scene of this book is almost Arthurian itself as Robin faces Gisbourne, a self-created modern Black Knight in single combat on a bridge. Blood will be shed and the result is not what most will hope for but does leave things wide open for the story to continue in book three.
This is a recommended read for all those who enjoy a grown-up tale of adventure and daring-do with an unflinching approach to medieval life and death.
Personally I cannot wait to discover what delights Steven A. McKay will deliver next time.
January 5, 2015
After reading the first book, I was extremely excited when the second one hit the shelves. The audiobook was excellent and the narrator superb...but I found myself screaming "Aaaarrrggg!!!" in my mind throughout this second story.
It must be true what the author says in the end that the characters dictated the storyline for the most part. As what you would expect to happen usually does. Also, characters that another author would have built the reader up to love, would always be saved in the end. Not here. Beloved characters die miserable deaths and the "baddies" seem to win ALL the way through the story.
But, like all good stories, I couldn't put it down. reading in the evening turned into audiobook listening during the day! :-) I'll keep reading the series though, hoping that this was merely Steven's version of "The Empire Strikes Back" and that the Jedi's really do win in the end.
I can hope.
It must be true what the author says in the end that the characters dictated the storyline for the most part. As what you would expect to happen usually does. Also, characters that another author would have built the reader up to love, would always be saved in the end. Not here. Beloved characters die miserable deaths and the "baddies" seem to win ALL the way through the story.
But, like all good stories, I couldn't put it down. reading in the evening turned into audiobook listening during the day! :-) I'll keep reading the series though, hoping that this was merely Steven's version of "The Empire Strikes Back" and that the Jedi's really do win in the end.
I can hope.
September 21, 2016
What a great second book and I can't wait to read book three, a few things that I did not expect either but if book three is as exciting as this one then book four will be just as amazing. I love history and this includes some of the historical figures of the time, while to me this is a fictional book and it does not bother me if there was accuracy to the books, with these books you need the figures of the time to make it work. Keep it up Steven, sorry it took so long to read, I will try not to do it with the next two.
October 1, 2014
We are proud to announce that THE WOLF AND THE RAVEN(The Forest Lord) by Steven A. McKay is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
November 4, 2024
An excellent sequel to Wolf's Head. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next instalment.
April 24, 2014
With his second volume in his Robin Hood series, The Wolf And The Raven, Steven McKay continues to re-imagine the legend of England's most famous outlaw.
Here is an outlaw leader with intelligence and courage and great war-skill, but also the uncertainty and self-doubt that plagues any conscientious leader, particularly a young one who finds himself in a position of unexpected authority among outcasts. Robin is not the only well-developed character: his outlaws are presented as men with individual motivations for their actions as well. Little John, Friar Tuck and Will Scarlet each show character development and growth consistent with their experiences from the first novel. Sir Richard-At-Lea's development progresses logically from the first novel as well.
As in the first book, the outlaws are pitted against a dangerous adversary. This time that opponent is the legendary Guy of Gisbourne. McKay makes a wise choice in setting aside the modern conception of Gisbourne popularized in novels, movies and television versions; in The Wolf And The Raven, Guy is restored to the stature he enjoyed in the original ballad in which he appears. Instead of using the character as a somewhat bumbling or inept subordinate of the sheriff, McKay's Sir Guy is the king's own bounty hunter and a man endowed with almost supernatural martial skill and cunning, while at the same time marked by flaws which make him unpredictable and interesting. In this way, McKay has made his Gisbourne a dangerous and worthy adversary for Robin Hood.
A collection of non-traditional characters, like Stephen (Sir Richard's sergeant-at-arms), Edmond (a tanner), and Matt Groves (an outlaw in Robin's band), are developed in surprising and interesting ways.
Overall, very much enjoyed the novel and very impressed with the continuation of the series. If pressed, I have a few minor quibbles though these should not be taken too much to heart or dismissive of the work overall. I am no archery expert, but it seems to me that the command for archers to discharge their arrows should be "loose!" rather than "fire!", so it struck me as a slightly distracting anachronism. It is slightly distracting how often noses are broken in McKay's writing; I challenge him to write his next novel without reference to broken olfactory organs! (LOL) Gisbourne's motivation for becoming a stern and cruel bounty hunter was not entirely convincing; the transgression against him did not justify the extremity of his transformation--for me. I would have liked to have seen more of Matilda, but as McKay mentions in his Afterword, there were good reasons why her contribution to the story was reduced in this volume. All in all, my quibbles are pretty slight.
The writing is once more fast-paced and economical. The story is violent with a touch of believable and appropriate (not excessive) medieval earthiness and crudity. Consideration is given to the era, and both the day-to-day period detail and English political situation are done justice. A number of little things came across in the text which surprised me about the times, but after a quick fact-check I was more impressed with McKay's period research. Well done indeed.
I would recommend the novel for Robin Hood enthusiasts and readers of historical fiction and adventure. I look forward to the next installment as well as future non-RH endeavours.
Here is an outlaw leader with intelligence and courage and great war-skill, but also the uncertainty and self-doubt that plagues any conscientious leader, particularly a young one who finds himself in a position of unexpected authority among outcasts. Robin is not the only well-developed character: his outlaws are presented as men with individual motivations for their actions as well. Little John, Friar Tuck and Will Scarlet each show character development and growth consistent with their experiences from the first novel. Sir Richard-At-Lea's development progresses logically from the first novel as well.
As in the first book, the outlaws are pitted against a dangerous adversary. This time that opponent is the legendary Guy of Gisbourne. McKay makes a wise choice in setting aside the modern conception of Gisbourne popularized in novels, movies and television versions; in The Wolf And The Raven, Guy is restored to the stature he enjoyed in the original ballad in which he appears. Instead of using the character as a somewhat bumbling or inept subordinate of the sheriff, McKay's Sir Guy is the king's own bounty hunter and a man endowed with almost supernatural martial skill and cunning, while at the same time marked by flaws which make him unpredictable and interesting. In this way, McKay has made his Gisbourne a dangerous and worthy adversary for Robin Hood.
A collection of non-traditional characters, like Stephen (Sir Richard's sergeant-at-arms), Edmond (a tanner), and Matt Groves (an outlaw in Robin's band), are developed in surprising and interesting ways.
Overall, very much enjoyed the novel and very impressed with the continuation of the series. If pressed, I have a few minor quibbles though these should not be taken too much to heart or dismissive of the work overall. I am no archery expert, but it seems to me that the command for archers to discharge their arrows should be "loose!" rather than "fire!", so it struck me as a slightly distracting anachronism. It is slightly distracting how often noses are broken in McKay's writing; I challenge him to write his next novel without reference to broken olfactory organs! (LOL) Gisbourne's motivation for becoming a stern and cruel bounty hunter was not entirely convincing; the transgression against him did not justify the extremity of his transformation--for me. I would have liked to have seen more of Matilda, but as McKay mentions in his Afterword, there were good reasons why her contribution to the story was reduced in this volume. All in all, my quibbles are pretty slight.
The writing is once more fast-paced and economical. The story is violent with a touch of believable and appropriate (not excessive) medieval earthiness and crudity. Consideration is given to the era, and both the day-to-day period detail and English political situation are done justice. A number of little things came across in the text which surprised me about the times, but after a quick fact-check I was more impressed with McKay's period research. Well done indeed.
I would recommend the novel for Robin Hood enthusiasts and readers of historical fiction and adventure. I look forward to the next installment as well as future non-RH endeavours.
December 3, 2016
First of all, this book, as the one before, screams quality, from the first moment you pick it up. Available as a self published paperback, it is one of the best looking, best feeling books you’ll ever own. It's got a good weight to it as well. And then what’s inside will have you leaning back in your chair with a ‘yes’ playing on your lips. That sort of thing.
This is what I’m getting from Steven’s writing of the book(s) so far.
The character of Robin, is very much front and centre in The Forest Lord books, as opposed to Angus Donald’s ‘Outlaw Chronicles’ series - which are, of course, actually about Alan Dale. Steven’s Robin is not as primal a figure as I found Angus’ Robin in the first book, Outlaw. Angus’ Robin at that stage, perhaps comparable to the stage we’re at with Steven’s Robin here, was a man of the forest, a man of the old heathen ways, a Green Man. He was the result of hundreds of years of folk law and tradition, and as primeval as can be. Steven McKay’s Robin is a much more normal (for the time), Robin. A young man coming to terms with who he is, what he is, who and what he must be to survive and ensure the survival of his friends and families. He’s getting closer to finding himself in this book, as the perfectly understandable ‘rabbit in the headlights’ Robin of the first book, settles down and the magnitude of the task ahead becomes more and more obvious. It’s the story of a boy, filling out, growing into the role history has given him, slowly finding the strength and leadership needed to be the bearer of the hopes of the people around him.
The Forest Lord series, features the usual supporting cast, those who are normally the supporting cast, those you ‘know’ were Robin’s band. What is done with the characters, is interesting too. Here, I felt, they were given equal billing to Robin. They are all equally as interesting, each with their own background and reasons for being who and where they are. There are no clichés here, which it would have surely been very easy to fall into, resulting in a live action Disney feel. None of that. Steven's Guy of Gisbourne is an excellent creation. He is truly nasty, thoroughly without scruples and absolutely perfectly written. Dark and deadly, more so than I've seen before and all the more interesting for that.
Speaking of writing, it’s an easy writing style to get into and very, very hard to come away from. Once we’re deep in Sherwood forest, we’re deep in ‘can’t put it down’ territory. It’s not a ‘no frills’ style, it’s an addictively objective style, that lets the story and the aims come forward, the characters shine through. One of the aims is clearly to entertain, that it does in abundance. There’s just the right amount of everything. Tension, action, pathos, excitement. The plot all holds together, there are no plot twists based on coincidences, the book delivers on all fronts, with style and content.
If you were perhaps thinking Robin Hood had been done to death, had gone everywhere it was possible to go, think again. Steven McKay's Robin is full of vigour, youthful energy and promise for the future.
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This is what I’m getting from Steven’s writing of the book(s) so far.
The character of Robin, is very much front and centre in The Forest Lord books, as opposed to Angus Donald’s ‘Outlaw Chronicles’ series - which are, of course, actually about Alan Dale. Steven’s Robin is not as primal a figure as I found Angus’ Robin in the first book, Outlaw. Angus’ Robin at that stage, perhaps comparable to the stage we’re at with Steven’s Robin here, was a man of the forest, a man of the old heathen ways, a Green Man. He was the result of hundreds of years of folk law and tradition, and as primeval as can be. Steven McKay’s Robin is a much more normal (for the time), Robin. A young man coming to terms with who he is, what he is, who and what he must be to survive and ensure the survival of his friends and families. He’s getting closer to finding himself in this book, as the perfectly understandable ‘rabbit in the headlights’ Robin of the first book, settles down and the magnitude of the task ahead becomes more and more obvious. It’s the story of a boy, filling out, growing into the role history has given him, slowly finding the strength and leadership needed to be the bearer of the hopes of the people around him.
The Forest Lord series, features the usual supporting cast, those who are normally the supporting cast, those you ‘know’ were Robin’s band. What is done with the characters, is interesting too. Here, I felt, they were given equal billing to Robin. They are all equally as interesting, each with their own background and reasons for being who and where they are. There are no clichés here, which it would have surely been very easy to fall into, resulting in a live action Disney feel. None of that. Steven's Guy of Gisbourne is an excellent creation. He is truly nasty, thoroughly without scruples and absolutely perfectly written. Dark and deadly, more so than I've seen before and all the more interesting for that.
Speaking of writing, it’s an easy writing style to get into and very, very hard to come away from. Once we’re deep in Sherwood forest, we’re deep in ‘can’t put it down’ territory. It’s not a ‘no frills’ style, it’s an addictively objective style, that lets the story and the aims come forward, the characters shine through. One of the aims is clearly to entertain, that it does in abundance. There’s just the right amount of everything. Tension, action, pathos, excitement. The plot all holds together, there are no plot twists based on coincidences, the book delivers on all fronts, with style and content.
If you were perhaps thinking Robin Hood had been done to death, had gone everywhere it was possible to go, think again. Steven McKay's Robin is full of vigour, youthful energy and promise for the future.
All my reviews : Speesh Reads
Speesh Reads' Facebook Page
April 8, 2014
http://parmenionbooks.wordpress.com/2...
Review
I’m always intrigued by a series starring Robin Hood, there haven’t been too many worth while series in recent years, but then along came Angus Donald with his brilliant series with the style godfather meets robin hood, i was hooked again. Out of the blue another new name appeared, admittedly self published but for me that’s never an impediment, in fact with some of the latest awesome writers, SJA Turney, Gorden Doherty and now Steven A McKay can really write, easily as well as those historical fiction authors being represented and published by the big mainstream publishing houses.
Steven was kind enough to ask me to beta read this book, which for a frustrated writer like myself is a wonderful insight into the writing process. It also meant much less of a wait between books. Book one saw the building of a new world, a different Robin Hood, a Robin Hood those in Nottinghamshire (where i live) would point and shout thief! As he moves Robin Hood away from the boundaries of his fabled home, north into Yorkshire. He manages to pull this off with some considerable style and makes it believable, which is key to this type of book.
Book two The Wolf and the Raven takes Robin Hoods band of men to the next stage, they are still on the wrong side of the law, but now worse they are on the wrong side of a rebellion, and there is a new name hunting Robin and his men. Guy of Gisbourne, and Guy is not the blonde clumsy wally from the TV series of the 80′s this Guy is a black clad killing machine with a devious scheming mind.
I’m not going to say that this is the complete novel, but it is a great fun read, Its well researched, well thought out and has a really fun interesting plot that carry’s you from first page to last with a fairly rapid pace its well worth paltry £2.26 that is the cover price.
So if you’re looking for something to whisk you back to medieval times for a journey around the woodlands dodging soldiers, living off the land, robbing the rich to live and giving back what you can, some classic Robin Hood mixed with some realistic wolf’s head exploits, then this is a series you need to read.
I feel there is a lot more to come from this series and this writer.
recommended
(Parm)
Review
I’m always intrigued by a series starring Robin Hood, there haven’t been too many worth while series in recent years, but then along came Angus Donald with his brilliant series with the style godfather meets robin hood, i was hooked again. Out of the blue another new name appeared, admittedly self published but for me that’s never an impediment, in fact with some of the latest awesome writers, SJA Turney, Gorden Doherty and now Steven A McKay can really write, easily as well as those historical fiction authors being represented and published by the big mainstream publishing houses.
Steven was kind enough to ask me to beta read this book, which for a frustrated writer like myself is a wonderful insight into the writing process. It also meant much less of a wait between books. Book one saw the building of a new world, a different Robin Hood, a Robin Hood those in Nottinghamshire (where i live) would point and shout thief! As he moves Robin Hood away from the boundaries of his fabled home, north into Yorkshire. He manages to pull this off with some considerable style and makes it believable, which is key to this type of book.
Book two The Wolf and the Raven takes Robin Hoods band of men to the next stage, they are still on the wrong side of the law, but now worse they are on the wrong side of a rebellion, and there is a new name hunting Robin and his men. Guy of Gisbourne, and Guy is not the blonde clumsy wally from the TV series of the 80′s this Guy is a black clad killing machine with a devious scheming mind.
I’m not going to say that this is the complete novel, but it is a great fun read, Its well researched, well thought out and has a really fun interesting plot that carry’s you from first page to last with a fairly rapid pace its well worth paltry £2.26 that is the cover price.
So if you’re looking for something to whisk you back to medieval times for a journey around the woodlands dodging soldiers, living off the land, robbing the rich to live and giving back what you can, some classic Robin Hood mixed with some realistic wolf’s head exploits, then this is a series you need to read.
I feel there is a lot more to come from this series and this writer.
recommended
(Parm)
April 16, 2014
A spectacular, sweeping sequel that takes your breath away!
Anxiously awaiting the next instalment within the phenomenal ‘The Forest Lord’ series, I dived in with tense trepidation as to whether the follow-up to such a noteworthy first novel could be matched. Dramatic and wonderfully wrought with fervent intensity, book 2: the wolf and the raven doesn’t disappoint! McKay’s compelling writing lures you into a magnificently splendid historical backdrop, of authenticity and exquisite detail captured deftly on the page. His refreshingly contemporary version of Robin Hood transports you into the heart of Medieval England. I was once again blown away by an absorbing, addictive story full of fantastic depth and realistic elements.
Robin Hood {& his men) are fugitives with a price on their heads, being hunted down by Guy of Gisbourne. Set in the terrifyingly turbulent time of 1322, the fast-pace and dynamic plot thickens as Robin finds himself in even more danger. Undeniably well written and engrossing, I was sucked into this riveting read unable to tear my eyes away from the pages. In a darkly magnetic world of passion, heated rivalry and revenge and uncertainty is a iconic hero painted in a new light. The unjustifiable brutality in such harsh times was captured acutely through the narrative, which contains such substance and in-depth characterization as to bring the past boldly to life.
Once more I am extremely impressed by this author whose brilliant book has surpassed and exceeded all expectations, by keeping me firmly fixed to the pages with interest. I would highly recommend this sensational series to all who seek an illuminating and profoundly evocative insight into medieval England, including a fresh ‘take’ on the tales of Robin Hood.
4.5 Stars
*I would like to thank the author for providing me with an e-copy of his book to read and review. *
Anxiously awaiting the next instalment within the phenomenal ‘The Forest Lord’ series, I dived in with tense trepidation as to whether the follow-up to such a noteworthy first novel could be matched. Dramatic and wonderfully wrought with fervent intensity, book 2: the wolf and the raven doesn’t disappoint! McKay’s compelling writing lures you into a magnificently splendid historical backdrop, of authenticity and exquisite detail captured deftly on the page. His refreshingly contemporary version of Robin Hood transports you into the heart of Medieval England. I was once again blown away by an absorbing, addictive story full of fantastic depth and realistic elements.
Robin Hood {& his men) are fugitives with a price on their heads, being hunted down by Guy of Gisbourne. Set in the terrifyingly turbulent time of 1322, the fast-pace and dynamic plot thickens as Robin finds himself in even more danger. Undeniably well written and engrossing, I was sucked into this riveting read unable to tear my eyes away from the pages. In a darkly magnetic world of passion, heated rivalry and revenge and uncertainty is a iconic hero painted in a new light. The unjustifiable brutality in such harsh times was captured acutely through the narrative, which contains such substance and in-depth characterization as to bring the past boldly to life.
Once more I am extremely impressed by this author whose brilliant book has surpassed and exceeded all expectations, by keeping me firmly fixed to the pages with interest. I would highly recommend this sensational series to all who seek an illuminating and profoundly evocative insight into medieval England, including a fresh ‘take’ on the tales of Robin Hood.
4.5 Stars
*I would like to thank the author for providing me with an e-copy of his book to read and review. *
July 30, 2014
Wow!! The last paragraph was unexpected and caught me off guard, but it made everything all the more thrilling ! Watch out , Robin! This is very adventurous book as there is so much going on, but I do not want to tell anything as it will take away from the excitement of this book, but some of the outlaws do not make it through these adventures alive which is sad because they have literally become my friends. I read right through this book as it was very difficult to put down. This series is great! I am very much looking forward to book #3. One thing that has me confused is the portrayal of Edward II as a strong king. From my reading, Edward II was a weak king who paid more attention to his 'favorites' than he did to anyone else. I have visited Berkeley Castle ( pronounced Barkley) where King Edward II was murdered by some of his noble subjects. It is a terrible story so I will not mention the facts here of what was done to him. You can check it out on the Internet. Once again, congratulations, Mr. McKay. Another job very well done!!
May 25, 2014
Ok, "The Wolf's Head" was a cracking 1st novel & now we have the sequel "The Wolf And The Raven".
The sequel carries on where the 1st one ended and there is no let up on the pace of the book. I would say Steven McKay has stepped up a level & has really become a quality authour up there with Cornwell & Kane etc.
The characters are fantastic, Robin Hood & the lads are all together again fighting for their lives & freedom against a deadly foe in
Sir Guy of Gisbourne,
I really enjoyed the little side story of Sir Richard-at-Lee & his sergeant called Stephen.
Here's hoping for round 3 in the future!
The sequel carries on where the 1st one ended and there is no let up on the pace of the book. I would say Steven McKay has stepped up a level & has really become a quality authour up there with Cornwell & Kane etc.
The characters are fantastic, Robin Hood & the lads are all together again fighting for their lives & freedom against a deadly foe in
Sir Guy of Gisbourne,
I really enjoyed the little side story of Sir Richard-at-Lee & his sergeant called Stephen.
Here's hoping for round 3 in the future!
March 29, 2015
This is the second book in a retelling of Robin Hood. This time, the reader can concentrate on the adventure and not have to worry about some of the names 'not' matching up.
There were elements in this book that had me gripped - even though you knew they were going to make it (after all, it is about Robin Hood).
There was a paragraph or two at the end of the book that makes me think there will be a revenge theme going on in the next book.
This authour has a short novella, which i will not be purchasing and reading.
There were elements in this book that had me gripped - even though you knew they were going to make it (after all, it is about Robin Hood).
There was a paragraph or two at the end of the book that makes me think there will be a revenge theme going on in the next book.
This authour has a short novella, which i will not be purchasing and reading.
March 30, 2014
I absolutely loved The Wolf and the Raven. Robin and his men are outlaws/wolfsheads and the king has assigned Sir Guy of Gisbourne to pursue and kill them. With this writer's skill you are transported to 1322 England and it is exciting. This book moves at a breakneck pace and is difficult to put down. I read it in three days. Parts of it will make you laugh and some will make you cry. The book is EXCELLENT and I am looking forward to the next one in the series.
July 1, 2014
Lots of swashing and buckling in this new take on Robin Hood and his Merry Men. It gives new insights into the lives and motives of the main men--Robin, Little John, Will Scarlet, Friar Tuck, et al, while not following the original story too closely. Not a problem once I got my mind into an alternate kind of universe. I enjoyed this book very much and look forward to reading McKay's other Robin stories.
March 19, 2015
The second book in this series definitely kept me totally interested. I am a fan of all books about Robin Hood and this one is a favourite. I love to hear about Robin Hood, his men and of course Sir Guy of Gisbourne.
I look forward to the next in the series and hope that Robin is able to find Matt Groves, and deal with him.
I look forward to the next in the series and hope that Robin is able to find Matt Groves, and deal with him.
August 9, 2015
Fantastic. Great sequel to an amazing first book. The story has kept me enthralled all the way and im looking forward to reading the latest instalment.
I have been a big Robin Hood fan since i was a kid and love this version of the tale.
A must read
Rod
I have been a big Robin Hood fan since i was a kid and love this version of the tale.
A must read
Rod
July 28, 2014
This novel of Robin Hood is a fast paced adventure full of revenge & hatred, there is plenty of action & humour with the merry men & of course the horrendous Sir Guy of Gisbourne who we all love to hate. This is good escapism with lots of gory bits to boot.WON THIS ON GOODREADS GIVE-AWAY.
January 16, 2015
FANTASTIC
After only reading a chapter of a wolfs head I was confident enough to order this book and I was not disappointed gripping story told with a fresh passion that will impress any reader this is a must for any book fan
After only reading a chapter of a wolfs head I was confident enough to order this book and I was not disappointed gripping story told with a fresh passion that will impress any reader this is a must for any book fan
June 5, 2014
Was a delightful and well written rendition of The Robin Hood tail.
February 22, 2015
Nick Ellsworth does justice to Steven McKay's story with a crisp, professional narration. I read the paperback earlier, but I enjoyed the audio experience equally. Highly recommended.
September 5, 2016
Great book in the continuing story of Robin Hood. Situations, character importance and locations have changed from the usual generic ones but these seem to work better
December 13, 2024
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MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.75/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
Ahh Mr. McKay, what a gripping sequel this was, The Wolf and the Raven exceeded my expectations with its brutality, shocking deaths and lighthearted banter that had me rolling at one point. This is exactly the sequel that this story needed, I was engaged from the crucial opening to the somewhat cliffhanging, climactic finale.
Though this story is almost as old as time, McKay does such a great job of making it his own with his incredible knack for story telling and a very easy to read prose. As much as I loved the first book, I have to say, this is even better, the pace of the story just makes it fly by, the action felt more intense, plus a duel of fates type of scene that was just incredible. I loved that there is a bit of a recognition within the story itself; of the parallels between Arthur & Lancelot and Robin & Guy, I think that made it even better of a read to see it pointed out.
“Listen to me. Every one of us here has a sad tale to tell. We all wish our life had turned out differently. But we’re here and we live this life as best we can.”
One of the things I said in my review of Wolf’s Head, was that I loved how McKay gave the other characters in Robin’s story, more of a backstory to understand them better and love them more. Little John was one that didn’t really get that and I had hoped he would get it in book two. So I was happy to see that he got to tell his own tragic backstory that led him to the group of outlaws. I love seeing these characters get the work they deserve other than always being minor characters with little to no depth, in the story of Robin Hood.
The narration by Nick Ellsworth makes the third-person omniscient narrative, worth listening to, he just does such a great job of helping set the tone of the story and does a phenomenal job of bringing each one of the characters to life. I didn’t want this to end, but I knew it had to, so that I could get to the next book in the series for McKay to exceed my expectations once again.
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————————————————————————————————
MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.75/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
Ahh Mr. McKay, what a gripping sequel this was, The Wolf and the Raven exceeded my expectations with its brutality, shocking deaths and lighthearted banter that had me rolling at one point. This is exactly the sequel that this story needed, I was engaged from the crucial opening to the somewhat cliffhanging, climactic finale.
Though this story is almost as old as time, McKay does such a great job of making it his own with his incredible knack for story telling and a very easy to read prose. As much as I loved the first book, I have to say, this is even better, the pace of the story just makes it fly by, the action felt more intense, plus a duel of fates type of scene that was just incredible. I loved that there is a bit of a recognition within the story itself; of the parallels between Arthur & Lancelot and Robin & Guy, I think that made it even better of a read to see it pointed out.
“Listen to me. Every one of us here has a sad tale to tell. We all wish our life had turned out differently. But we’re here and we live this life as best we can.”
One of the things I said in my review of Wolf’s Head, was that I loved how McKay gave the other characters in Robin’s story, more of a backstory to understand them better and love them more. Little John was one that didn’t really get that and I had hoped he would get it in book two. So I was happy to see that he got to tell his own tragic backstory that led him to the group of outlaws. I love seeing these characters get the work they deserve other than always being minor characters with little to no depth, in the story of Robin Hood.
The narration by Nick Ellsworth makes the third-person omniscient narrative, worth listening to, he just does such a great job of helping set the tone of the story and does a phenomenal job of bringing each one of the characters to life. I didn’t want this to end, but I knew it had to, so that I could get to the next book in the series for McKay to exceed my expectations once again.
September 6, 2021
It’s taken me far too long to get back to this series, and for that I can only apologise to the author, as I really enjoyed the first book in the series, Wolf’s Head. In this second book, Robin Hood and his band of outlaws are being hunted down mercilessly by Sir Guy of Gisbourne, a hired assassin hellbent on capturing Robin Hood and killing his band of merry outlaws.
The plot moves at an excellent pace, keeping you engaged from the first page right up to the last. The characterisation is once again exceptional, and this includes Sir Guy of Gisbourne, who is fleshed out and has his own motivation and little tics that make him who he is.
A brilliant read, and a wonderful sequel to the original.
The plot moves at an excellent pace, keeping you engaged from the first page right up to the last. The characterisation is once again exceptional, and this includes Sir Guy of Gisbourne, who is fleshed out and has his own motivation and little tics that make him who he is.
A brilliant read, and a wonderful sequel to the original.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews