Woden's Storm

The First Kingdom #2

by Donovan Cook

💥 The next BRAND NEW epic historical adventure from bestseller Donovan Cook 🛡️ Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy. ⚔️ A storm is coming.
A storm that will banish the old and deliver the new.

450AD, Britain

Octa has the spear of Woden, but the redemption he sought is out of his grasp. With his banishment and the death of his father, he can no longer return to his Saxon homelands. His only salvation is to join forces with Hengist and Horsa, and their Jutish army that beaches itself on Brittania’s shores on King Vortigern's invitation. But can he trust their motivation or are there greater plans afoot?

When Prince Vortimer, the son of High King Vortigern suspects treachery and encouraged by some well-placed words of a stranger, he rebels against his father and gathers his army to attack the unwelcome visitors.

However, the Gods have their own plans and his fate is not his own to control. War is coming to Britannia and as Octa struggles to understand his role, he knows he has one question to answer. Will he run or will he stand and fight?

The continuation of the epic adventure of turmoil, coming of age and survival set against a time when Britannia was on its knees and fighting for its very existence.

Praise for Donovan

'Woden’s Spear is yet another shield crunching epic from Donovan Cook. Any reader who loves battle, Saxons, warriors and adventures won’t be disappointed! A spell binding tale of early Britain certain to keep pages turning and readers entertained.' - Peter Gibbons

'Cook gives you thunderous action in a tightly woven plot. An epic adventure from a crumbling empire to a mysterious mist strewn land. Not one to be missed for fans of Cornwell and Kristian.' - Adam Lofthouse

'Donovan Cook’s Charlemagne’s Cross series has everything I look for in a tale of the Dark Ages. Adventure and gritty action set against the backdrop of clashing religions and the collision of kingdoms. Great stuff!' - Matthew Harffy

'A fabulous Norse tale of family secrets, betrayal and conflict right up until the very last page - I loved it!'- MJ Porter

'An action-packed scintillating thriller. Pacy, raw, violent fayre, with a cast of characters you'll swiftly loathe or admire - you'll think you're in the shield wall' - Ross Greenwood

Genres: Historical Fiction

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 22, 2025

Reviews

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Woden’s Storm is the second book in the first kingdoms series by Donovan Cook, Octa is now with Hengist and horsa, he’s not only fighting with the juwts but living on an island of Ingles and like him fellow Saxton’s. They were supposed to be defending Britannia. after sending Octa with a message for the king of Britannia he soon comes to the island and greeted like an honored guest completely unlike they greeted Octa. Neither side trust the other and soon one side will be proven right. Octa gets even more intimate with the gods but this time this god is not on Octa’s side Bridget and her brother are still alive and have now fled Britannia and their living with the old warriors within the walls and learn more about the cult and what they were protecting. The prince believes he has Walden’s spear and believes he cannot fail because of it. it ended on a cliffhanger so we don’t know if the prince will be proven right or once again learn when you play stupid games you win stupid prizes I cannot wait for the third book although I did almost give up on the series due to the blasphemy in the book but as I realized it was fiction and not to mention so so good I decided to finish it. There are lots of things I didn’t put in my review like Bridget who is still begging to speak to the wise one, meeting her protector, Octa almost losing Hengist’s Son to Britannia‘s Warriors and so so much more. This is a great book not only does it have action but it’s intellectually written and I cannot wait to see the conclusion. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #DonovanCook,#WodenStorm,

[David Baird · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woden’s Storm by Donovan Cook is book 2 in The First Kingdom series.. The first book really set the scene for a new and fresh series and I couldn’t wait to see what happened next.

Octa is burdened with the spear of Woden, and the weight of shame he’s brought upon his family.

He thought finding the spear who bring him redemption.. would set things right for his family.. but nothing is ever easy is it… the pain he feels around his family follows him like a shadow and is pivotal in his decision making.

In the last book we saw Octa bring shame upon himself and his family be fleeing during battle so I think it even shocks himself when Octa aligns himself with Hengist and Horsa and their Jutish army.

Hengist and Horsa are a fascinating pair who can’t be trusted.. you never quite know their true motivation.. even when things come to fruition you never know if that’s really it… or is their going to be some sort of twist.

Can Octa trust them? Does he have a choice?

This Jute army isnt exactly welcome Brittania.. there’s a power struggle.. they can’t remain unchecked allowed to do as they please can they?

I really loved the plot and the betrayal.. the deceptions at play.. who is really guiding Prince Vortimer to war and why?

I think the most fascinating part of this series is the supernatural edge.. the gods are real not just someone to be prayed too.. but the gods are tricky..and have their own internal battles to face..are their motivations going to end up align with Octa’s goal of redemption or will this add more fire to the flames already taking hold in the world?

I think the best way to describe Woden’s Storm is “Strengthening”. The author already laid the starting foundations but continues to weave a wonderful and exciting world.. there’s detail to allow you to imagine the land, the people and where they live but ultimately that plot shines through and Cook builds on the foundations set.

We see characters develop and have a chance to glimpse the the plot develop from different perspectives.. we see that supernatural end continue and how finding the spear will leave a trail of destruction no matter what..

Woden’s Storm has the excitement I need for the genre but for me the plot is just fun.. fresh.. fascinating…I guess it’s because you never really know what will happen next and the author has created such a standout story that really allows their imagination to shine.

Pace for me is always important and Woden’s Storm does exactly what I need, it’s paced well but balanced between perfectly, no forced development the flow just felt natural and effortless which is a credit to the author given the multifaceted world they’ve created.

Ticks all the boxes and some!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fans of action-packed historical novels will struggle to put down the latest Donovan Cook yarn, Woden’s Storm.

Octa might finally have the spear of Woden in his possession, but the redemption he sought is still far from his reach. Banished from his Saxon homelands and with his father having died, Octa is desperate and he sees no other option but to join forces with Hengist and Horsa and their Jutish army that beaches itself on the shores of Britannia at King Vortigen’s invitation. But has Octa made the biggest mistake of his life by trusting Hengist and Horsa? Or will they help him in his quest for atonement?

Prince Vortigen suspects treachery and chicanery and, encouraged by a well-placed stranger, rebels against his father and gathers his army to attack the island’s visitors. However, the Gods are watching and they have plans of their own and as war brews, Octa finds himself struggling with the role he has to play in the proceedings. Will he stand and fight for what he believes? Or will he run like the wind?

Donovan Cook’s Woden Storm is an epic historical novel that is gutsy, gripping and impossible to forget. Brilliantly researched and wonderfully evocative, this brilliantly written tale of war, ambition, power and vengeance will transfix the reader and keep them engaged and entertained until the last page.

Readers who cannot get enough of Conn Iggulden and Simon Scarrow will not want to miss Donovan Cook’s Woden’s Storm.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[M.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Woden's Storm is the second book in The First Kingdom series by Donovan Cook. We're once more in a recreated Britain of the middle fifth century, where everyone's actions are guided by their Gods. And there are a lot of Gods who want to have a say in what's happening, and not all of them, on the 'same side' as it were, hope to achieve the same ends. Octa, Vortimor, and the rest of the characters are constantly being tested by their deities, told half the story and left to work the rest out for themselves. Will they interpret their meetings with the Gods correctly, or will they make everything more chaotic by muddying these messages with their own intentions?

I do enjoy the element of the Gods walking amongst the characters and interfering in what's happening. I mean, I doubt it would be peaceful without them, but with them, it certainly isn't:) It adds a new dimension to this period and perhaps helps to account for some of the more eccentric decisions the characters make as they all endeavour to accomplish their goals. There is still much to play for and the series will continue.

An entertaining and intriguing series with a whole host of 'named' characters, people who love the era will recognise.

[Ann-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

AD450. Following Octa’s adventures in the north of Britannia he’s now got Woden’s spear but has been warned by Friga not to give the spear back to Woden. What Octa really wants to do is take the spear back to his homeland and avenge the death of his father. But he knows that he needs an army to do that and who would follow a coward like him? So he turns to Hengist and Horsa. Sent by the brothers to King Vortigern to ask for more supplies he and his companions are attacked on their return journey by Prince Vortimer’s men……

I really enjoyed catching up with Octa and his adventures – if you haven’t read Woden’s Spear then I recommend you read that first. Octa is definitely growing as a warrior and a leader in this book. An engrossing read with plenty of action and I really love the idea that the Gods are walking among the people, influencing them and using them to fight their own wars! I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing, atmospheric, with plenty of action that’s detailed but not graphic: this historical thriller grips with precision and restraint. The storytelling is grounded in tension, tight plotted and fast pace.
The barbaric setting is immersive: fractured loyalties, looming gods, and landscapes shaped by conflict. Dialogue is sharp, emotions simmer, and the stakes rise without melodrama.
Characters are fierce and flawed: their choices matter, their struggles resonate. Cook balances myth and realism with care, never losing sight of the human cost.
The action is swift and purposeful: battles are cleanly written, strategy matters, and the consequences linger. There’s no excess, just clarity and impact.
If you enjoy historical fiction that respects its setting, challenges its heroes, and delivers suspense with subtlety, Woden’s Storm is a strong, satisfying read.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

[Storied Conversation · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping mix of myth, history, and adventure, Woden’s Storm brings early Britain vividly to life. The clash of gods, faiths, and warring kingdoms creates constant tension, while Octa—flawed, reluctant, and utterly human—anchors the story in emotional realism. The alternating perspectives, especially those of the gods themselves, add a fascinating dimension. Beautifully written and full of atmosphere, this is an excellent read for fans of myth-tinged historical fiction.


Thank you Bolwood Books, NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Cody Marie Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Cook's take on mixing fiction with Historical facts and assumptions, since some we will never know 100%. The characters are well written and engaging. The plot thickens throughout the book with angst, drama, dead men walking, and hatred between Jutes, Saxons and Britons. So, if you like historical fiction with soundly developed plots, I recommend Woden's Storm, but maybe start the series from the beginning with Woden's Spear.

This is my honest review after reading an ARC from Netgalley and Boldwood Books.

[Christine Harman · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Wodens Storm we follow Octa with the spear of Woden as he tries to prevent a war. A fast paced historical adventure which takes us in to the heart of the Ancient Britons and the Jutes and Saxons. Evocatively written it is easy to picture the action as it takes place. Although it is fiction, it is obviously based on facts from the time and is a good indication of how life was at the time. I would recommend this book to all who enjoy a good saga. I'm have enjoyed it immensely. With thanks to the author, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.

[John Mccormick · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thanks to the Author publisher's and NetGalley for providing me with a Kindle version of this book to read and honestly review.
This is the second book in this excellent series, and Octa's trials and tribulations continue, but so do his successes. Well written and researched atmospheric and descriptive with a real feel for time and place. Superb characters and plenty of action make for an engrossing read, even the ancient God's play a part. I eagerly await the next book.
Completely recommended.

[Julie Friar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in DD450, Britannia and Octa has Woden’s spear with warnings not to return it to him. He cannot return home and joins the Jutes. Can he find a future with them? Prince Vortimer wants them gone and builds an army to attack. Will the gods allow this?

Very well written and well paced novel. It is a time of turmoil where many are forgetting the old gods. Octa will have to deal with the gods, his mother and the Jutes. Lots of fighting will be had.

[Brendan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

Seemed a little slow to begin with and took me some time to remember all the characters but finished strong. The scenes with the Gods kinda adds a bit of fantasy that I don't think fits into the book and can be a little hard to follow as there are some that are the same but have different names etc but it is also probably fitting with the time.

[Linda Susan Garman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woden

Great read this story is well written and worth the time and effort to read. While it is historical fiction it paints an exciting and excellent picture of 6th century Britain.

[Sumit · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒂𝒓. 𝑰 𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉. 𝑾𝒐𝒅𝒆𝒏 𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒆 𝒎𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒂 𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕. 𝑩𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈, 𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑭𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒅. 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒍𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒗𝒆.

🌪️Woden’s Storm—the second installment in The First Kingdom series—continues the journey of Octa, the Saxon warrior who carries the lost spear of Woden. Yet the redemption he longs for remains out of reach, as returning home is no longer an option. Instead, he aligns himself with Hengist and Horsa and their Jutish army, invited to Britannia by King Vortigern to defend against his enemies. But peace is short-lived—Vortigern’s son, Prince Vortimer, rises in rebellion, gathering forces to drive out the unwelcome newcomers.



As war brews among men, the gods themselves begin to stir, weaving their own designs of death and chaos, forcing Octa to confront a truth he cannot escape: his fate may not be his own. Now, he must choose—run, or stand and fight.

‘𝘼 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙢 𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝘼 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙝 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙬.’

🌪️After laying a strong foundation in the first book, Donovan Cook builds on it with an engaging and richly layered continuation. The story is filled with epic adventure, turmoil, and a subtle coming-of-age arc, all set against a crumbling Britannia struggling for survival.

🌪️The narrative remains consistently compelling, with well-balanced pacing that keeps the story moving without feeling rushed. The battle sequences are vividly described, drawing you into the chaos of the battlefield.

🌪️What truly elevates the story, however, is the presence of the gods—not distant or symbolic, but real, cunning, and entangled in their own conflicts. Their influence adds an intriguing layer that deepens the overall narrative.

🌪️The characters are seamlessly written and evolve naturally over the course of the story. Octa, Vortimer, Brigid, and Badulf all undergo meaningful development, while the shifting dynamics between them—and the unseen games of the gods—add depth and tension throughout.

🌪️Without giving away spoilers, the ending delivers a nerve-wracking cliffhanger—one I genuinely didn’t see coming—and it left me eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Overall, Woden’s Storm is a fast-paced and immersive blend of history and myth. It’s a perfect pick for fans of M.J. Porter, Peter Gibbons, J.C. Duncan, or anyone fascinated by Saxon history and early Britannia. Highly recommended.

𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨(4.5/5)

[Lorraine Dias · Rating 3 out of 5]

Woden’s Storm, the second book in the First Kingdom series, is a fascinating mix of history and fantasy. Set just after the Romans leave Britannia, it captures a world full of upheaval, where tribes face waves of migration and invasion.

There’s no shortage of action, but what really stands out are the different character perspectives. Seeing events unfold through their eyes makes the story feel layered and real, showing just how complicated life, loyalty, and belief could be in a land caught between old gods and new powers.

Thank you to Donovan Cook, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC.