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The House of Mercia is a dynasty built on blood, betrayal and the brutal hunger for a crown. The start of a BRAND NEW epic historical adventure series from bestselling author MJ Porter! Must-read for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy
This is Mercia. The year is 757.
A king will fall. A king will rise.
But first, civil war will rage.
King Æthelbald's forty-year vice-like rule over Mercia has been rigid. But he lacks a legitimate heir despite his insatiable bedchamber antics.
Offa must stand hostage to his family’s good behaviour, when his father missteps in removing his mother from Æthelbald’s bed. Shockingly, his younger sister now replaces her.
But the king isn’t finished with his denigration of Offa’s noble House. When his parents are traitorously killed, Offa’s resentment grows, compounded by the ridicule heaped on him by King Æthelbald’s oathsworn warriors.
With the king’s health deteriorating, the matter of the succession becomes paramount. There are plenty who share a claim to the kingship.
Discord threatens to fracture the mighty realm, and those with sword and shield, seax and spear are prepared to risk it all to be the future king of Mercia.
This is Mercia. The year is 757.
A king will fall. A king will rise.
But first, civil war will rage.
King Æthelbald's forty-year vice-like rule over Mercia has been rigid. But he lacks a legitimate heir despite his insatiable bedchamber antics.
Offa must stand hostage to his family’s good behaviour, when his father missteps in removing his mother from Æthelbald’s bed. Shockingly, his younger sister now replaces her.
But the king isn’t finished with his denigration of Offa’s noble House. When his parents are traitorously killed, Offa’s resentment grows, compounded by the ridicule heaped on him by King Æthelbald’s oathsworn warriors.
With the king’s health deteriorating, the matter of the succession becomes paramount. There are plenty who share a claim to the kingship.
Discord threatens to fracture the mighty realm, and those with sword and shield, seax and spear are prepared to risk it all to be the future king of Mercia.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2026
About the author
M.J. Porter
129 books274 followersI'm an author of historical fiction (Early English/Saxon, Vikings and the British Isles as a whole before the Norman Conquest, as well as five 20th-century historical mysteries) and historical romantasy.
I was born in the old Mercian kingdom at some point since 1066. Raised in the shadow of a strange little building, told from a very young age that it housed the bones of long-dead kings of Mercia and that our garden was littered with old pieces of pottery from a long-ago battle, it's little wonder that my curiosity in Early England ran riot. I can only blame my parents!
I like to write. You've been warned!
Not sure where to start your journey through Saxon/Early England? The Dark Ages trilogy will take readers back to the very beginnings of Saxon England before the creation of Mercia and the other kingdoms. The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles featuring our reluctant hero, Icel, will introduce you to the best Saxon kingdom of all, Mercia! Storm of Mercia is the latest release.
Looking for my historical fantasy/romantasy? Dragonbound, the first book in the Ice and Fire series, will be available from September 2026.
Looking for my 20th-century mysteries? The Erdington Mysteries and Cragside, a standalone 1930s murder mystery, are the titles for you.
My first non-fiction book, The Royal Women Who Made England, is now published by Pen and Sword in hardback and ebook.
Happy reading:)
Find me at
www.mjporterauthor.com or at www.mjporterauthor.blog where I blog about books and films and sometimes, writing! I also have an online store for signed paperbacks and a few others goodies at mjporterauthor.co.uk.
https://linktr.ee/MJPorterauthor
https://mjporterauthor.sumupstore.com
You can join my monthly subscriber newsletters and gain access to the restricted page on my blog at the same time.
https://BookHip.com/MGWHLDC (Saxon stories)
https://BookHip.com/THPKCKP (mysteries only)
(I have odd reading tastes - there's no need to notice though!!) I'm also exceedingly anti-social - that you may notice but must accept!
I was born in the old Mercian kingdom at some point since 1066. Raised in the shadow of a strange little building, told from a very young age that it housed the bones of long-dead kings of Mercia and that our garden was littered with old pieces of pottery from a long-ago battle, it's little wonder that my curiosity in Early England ran riot. I can only blame my parents!
I like to write. You've been warned!
Not sure where to start your journey through Saxon/Early England? The Dark Ages trilogy will take readers back to the very beginnings of Saxon England before the creation of Mercia and the other kingdoms. The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles featuring our reluctant hero, Icel, will introduce you to the best Saxon kingdom of all, Mercia! Storm of Mercia is the latest release.
Looking for my historical fantasy/romantasy? Dragonbound, the first book in the Ice and Fire series, will be available from September 2026.
Looking for my 20th-century mysteries? The Erdington Mysteries and Cragside, a standalone 1930s murder mystery, are the titles for you.
My first non-fiction book, The Royal Women Who Made England, is now published by Pen and Sword in hardback and ebook.
Happy reading:)
Find me at
www.mjporterauthor.com or at www.mjporterauthor.blog where I blog about books and films and sometimes, writing! I also have an online store for signed paperbacks and a few others goodies at mjporterauthor.co.uk.
https://linktr.ee/MJPorterauthor
https://mjporterauthor.sumupstore.com
You can join my monthly subscriber newsletters and gain access to the restricted page on my blog at the same time.
https://BookHip.com/MGWHLDC (Saxon stories)
https://BookHip.com/THPKCKP (mysteries only)
(I have odd reading tastes - there's no need to notice though!!) I'm also exceedingly anti-social - that you may notice but must accept!
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am completely biased about this book because MJ included my beloved dog as a character. Buxton became Buxwolf, and honestly, I don't think I'll ever stop smiling about it!
MJ Porter is one of my all time favourite historical fiction authors and, without a doubt, the author I've read the most. I know exactly what I'm getting when I pick up one of MJ's books: political intrigue, power struggles between lords, priests, kings and queens, and brutal, bloody battles. 757 absolutely delivered on all of that.
I genuinely think this is MJ's best writing to date. The prose felt more polished than ever, the storytelling flowed effortlessly, and I found myself flying through the pages.
As the first book in a new series, it naturally spends time introducing the characters, establishing the political landscape, and laying the foundations for what's to come. That slower build never felt like a chore because there was always enough intrigue to keep me hooked. And, of course, there were still the shield wall battles that I absolutely love.
This feels like the start of something really special.
MJ Porter is one of my all time favourite historical fiction authors and, without a doubt, the author I've read the most. I know exactly what I'm getting when I pick up one of MJ's books: political intrigue, power struggles between lords, priests, kings and queens, and brutal, bloody battles. 757 absolutely delivered on all of that.
I genuinely think this is MJ's best writing to date. The prose felt more polished than ever, the storytelling flowed effortlessly, and I found myself flying through the pages.
As the first book in a new series, it naturally spends time introducing the characters, establishing the political landscape, and laying the foundations for what's to come. That slower build never felt like a chore because there was always enough intrigue to keep me hooked. And, of course, there were still the shield wall battles that I absolutely love.
This feels like the start of something really special.
September 24, 2026
757; the house of Mercia number one by MJ Porter, when the book begins Offa of the house of Eanwulf, along with his mother and father are all gathered to have an audience with King EAthelbald. Offa and his family are there to beg the kings forgiveness for taking his mom out of the King’s bed before the king was done with her. The king has no legitimate airs and takes whoever he has a fancy to to try and create one and at that moment it was his poor mother this is the beginning of the story of Offa, he’s to remain at the house of Mercia or wherever the king wants him to pay penance for his mother’s early flight from his bed. This is just the beginning of the mean and unjust horrible tragic things that happens because soon after he is in prison at the castle he learns of his mother and father‘s death and although they fain ignorance to the culprit Offa thinks he knows who did it and the more he sees them the more certain he feels certain of the perpetrator. He does make a few friends and even acquires a pet hound but theirs more injustice to come his sister has been living in a convent soon he learned his sister has been brought from the Nunnery to be the next victim of the king and it tears him up that there is nothing he can do about it. This is just the beginning of a much sadder story I have read mini series by MJ Porter in between the first and second book is always the bittersweet portion because you know greatness is coming and now all you have to do is wait in as Tom Petty says “the waiting is the hardest part.” so needless to say I cannot wait for the next book in the house of Mercia series and although this one wasn’t as exciting as most of her books you should still read it because if history shows us anything with MJ Porter this is just the beginning. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,
July 26, 2026
Offa is a young lord of a family , that the king wants to keep close and watch carefully. King Æthelbald is very old now and still controls Mercia and its lords. Offa is suffering and is treated badly by everyone. But then it gets worse when his sister is kidnapped by the king’s men and she comes to court. The king is a lecherous old man and now Offa’s sister suffers too. Most of the book shows how terrible Offa’s life has become.
“Now clear all the stalls. The hay in that wheelbarrow. The shit in that bucket. The piss will need to be brushed away with water, and that besom.”
Signature horses of Porter’s stories appear here also. Engel is the king’s violent horse that only the slave, Eoppa, can control. Then there’s Buxton, a runt of the litter dog companion to Offa, that saves his sanity. Offa’s horse, Shadow, is kept away from him.
The healer gives him a small ray of hope: “Do not blame yourself, young Offa. These things happen for a reason.”
However we have to wait a while to see if events turn in his favor.
There are so many foul tempered people, that I wondered if there were any good people in this world. So much happens and the battle scene at the end sets things up for the next book. By the end here, you are invested in Offa and his friends. So, yes, Offa does have friends finally.
“Now clear all the stalls. The hay in that wheelbarrow. The shit in that bucket. The piss will need to be brushed away with water, and that besom.”
Signature horses of Porter’s stories appear here also. Engel is the king’s violent horse that only the slave, Eoppa, can control. Then there’s Buxton, a runt of the litter dog companion to Offa, that saves his sanity. Offa’s horse, Shadow, is kept away from him.
The healer gives him a small ray of hope: “Do not blame yourself, young Offa. These things happen for a reason.”
However we have to wait a while to see if events turn in his favor.
There are so many foul tempered people, that I wondered if there were any good people in this world. So much happens and the battle scene at the end sets things up for the next book. By the end here, you are invested in Offa and his friends. So, yes, Offa does have friends finally.
August 9, 2026
757 is my third series by M. J. Porter, and with this book he has moved from being a newly discovered author I enjoy to an author I now consider a trusted source of consistently engaging historical fiction. Porter has clearly found his wheelhouse in the early medieval period, particularly England between roughly 600 and 1100 AD. It is an incredibly fascinating period, with numerous kingdoms and rulers competing for territory and influence, creating an almost constant cycle of alliances, betrayals, and warfare.
What I enjoy most about historical fiction set during this period is how much remains unknown. We often know the major figures and have a general idea of when events occurred, but the historical record rarely tells us exactly why things happened. That gives an author room to take what is known and build a believable story around the gaps. Porter excels at this. He takes the limited historical information available and creates characters who feel fully realized while still fitting within the history we know.
In 757, that character work is particularly impressive. Offa is one of the better-known kings of Mercia, remembered in part for the great earthwork that still bears his name, but there is relatively little surviving information about the young man before he became king. Porter uses that historical gap to place us alongside a young Offa who has been taken as a political hostage and suddenly finds himself caught in the middle of a rapidly changing England. The result is a character I am already deeply invested in and eager to follow.
This is where historical fiction is at its best for me. We know the people existed and we know some of the events that shaped their lives, but the unknown leaves room for imagination. Perhaps Porter has given us something close to what really happened, or perhaps history unfolded very differently. We simply don’t know, and that possibility makes the journey all the more enjoyable.
757 is a fast-paced historical adventure with strong characters, fascinating history, and plenty of room for the series to grow. I am completely invested in this new series and excited to see where Offa’s story goes next. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in early medieval England or anyone simply looking for an engaging historical adventure.
The book is suitable for adults and older teens, although it contains violence and some sensitive situations that may be difficult for some readers.
I was given an advance copy of the book from the publisher and NetGalley.com for a honest review.
What I enjoy most about historical fiction set during this period is how much remains unknown. We often know the major figures and have a general idea of when events occurred, but the historical record rarely tells us exactly why things happened. That gives an author room to take what is known and build a believable story around the gaps. Porter excels at this. He takes the limited historical information available and creates characters who feel fully realized while still fitting within the history we know.
In 757, that character work is particularly impressive. Offa is one of the better-known kings of Mercia, remembered in part for the great earthwork that still bears his name, but there is relatively little surviving information about the young man before he became king. Porter uses that historical gap to place us alongside a young Offa who has been taken as a political hostage and suddenly finds himself caught in the middle of a rapidly changing England. The result is a character I am already deeply invested in and eager to follow.
This is where historical fiction is at its best for me. We know the people existed and we know some of the events that shaped their lives, but the unknown leaves room for imagination. Perhaps Porter has given us something close to what really happened, or perhaps history unfolded very differently. We simply don’t know, and that possibility makes the journey all the more enjoyable.
757 is a fast-paced historical adventure with strong characters, fascinating history, and plenty of room for the series to grow. I am completely invested in this new series and excited to see where Offa’s story goes next. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in early medieval England or anyone simply looking for an engaging historical adventure.
The book is suitable for adults and older teens, although it contains violence and some sensitive situations that may be difficult for some readers.
I was given an advance copy of the book from the publisher and NetGalley.com for a honest review.
September 6, 2026
Long live the King
This was an absolutely enthralling story. Rich characters brought to life in a truly violent time in history. I cannot wait for the next book release in this series. Bravo, MJ Porter!
This was an absolutely enthralling story. Rich characters brought to life in a truly violent time in history. I cannot wait for the next book release in this series. Bravo, MJ Porter!
July 26, 2026
The first in a new historical adventure from MJ Porter. The year is 757 and Offa and his family have been bought before the king. Thereafter Offa's life changes dramatically. As we have come to expect from MJ Porter this is a well written fictionalisation of the events in the year 757. Hard hitting but with some tenderness where you least expect it. The words conjure up the time and place amazingly well and u look forward to the next installment. With thanks to the author, Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
𝘙𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 Netgalley
‘𝙄’𝙢 𝙖 𝙣𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚-𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙣. 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙣. 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧’𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚. 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙙𝙤𝙢. 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙝-𝙨𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖 𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙗𝙚 𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙝-𝙨𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙀𝙖𝙣𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙃𝙬𝙞𝙘𝙘𝙚. 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙢𝙚. 𝙄’𝙢 𝙖 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩. 𝙄𝙛 𝙄 𝙡𝙚𝙛𝙩, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙩. 𝙄’𝙙 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙞𝙩.’
👑The book—the first installment in the House of Merica series—set in 757 AD, chronicles one of the most turbulent periods in Mercian history, following the final days of King Æthelbald and the rise of Offa, the man who would become one of Mercia's greatest rulers.
Born into a noble family, Offa is taken hostage by King Æthelbald to atone for his parents' perceived crimes. His suffering only deepens when his parents are treacherously murdered, and his sister is forced into the king's bedchamber. Consumed by grief and resentment, Offa patiently waits for the opportunity to avenge his family. As Æthelbald's health declines and the absence of a legitimate heir throws the kingdom into turmoil, Mercia edges toward civil war—offering Offa the chance he has long awaited.
𝙄 𝙫𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙠 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚. 𝘼𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙜 Æ𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙙. 𝘼𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙩, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙙 Æ∂𝙚𝙡𝙢𝙤𝙙. 𝙄 𝙫𝙤𝙬 𝙞𝙩, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙄’𝙢 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩, 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧.
👑One of the novel's greatest strengths is how M.J. Porter brings an obscure period of history vividly to life. With very little surviving historical documentation from this era, much of the narrative is built on informed imagination, yet it never feels implausible. The detailed map of England and the author's historical note further enrich the reading experience.
👑Although the opening chapters take their time introducing the large cast, the story never loses momentum. The constant political intrigue, shifting alliances, and power struggles between kings, nobles, and churchmen kept me thoroughly engaged. The brutal shield-wall battle near the end is spectacularly written and serves as a thrilling climax.
👑Porter also excels at crafting memorable characters. Æthelbald is portrayed as a ruthless, lecherous tyrant, while Offa emerges as a reluctant yet deeply compelling hero whose transformation feels both believable and rewarding. Supporting characters such as Æthelmod, the king's bastard son, Beorcol, the loyal commander, and Heardberht, the king's brother, all add depth and complexity to the story. I also appreciated the comprehensive character list, which made it much easier to keep track of the many historical figures.
Overall, 757 is an outstanding start to a new series. Rich in political intrigue, compelling characters, and brutal action, it left me eager to continue Offa's journey. A must-read for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Matthew Harffy, and anyone who enjoys immersive Anglo-Saxon historical fiction.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
‘𝙄’𝙢 𝙖 𝙣𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚-𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙣. 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙣. 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧’𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚. 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙙𝙤𝙢. 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙝-𝙨𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖 𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙗𝙚 𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙝-𝙨𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙀𝙖𝙣𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙃𝙬𝙞𝙘𝙘𝙚. 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙢𝙚. 𝙄’𝙢 𝙖 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩. 𝙄𝙛 𝙄 𝙡𝙚𝙛𝙩, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙩. 𝙄’𝙙 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙞𝙩.’
👑The book—the first installment in the House of Merica series—set in 757 AD, chronicles one of the most turbulent periods in Mercian history, following the final days of King Æthelbald and the rise of Offa, the man who would become one of Mercia's greatest rulers.
Born into a noble family, Offa is taken hostage by King Æthelbald to atone for his parents' perceived crimes. His suffering only deepens when his parents are treacherously murdered, and his sister is forced into the king's bedchamber. Consumed by grief and resentment, Offa patiently waits for the opportunity to avenge his family. As Æthelbald's health declines and the absence of a legitimate heir throws the kingdom into turmoil, Mercia edges toward civil war—offering Offa the chance he has long awaited.
𝙄 𝙫𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙠 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚. 𝘼𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙜 Æ𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙙. 𝘼𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙝𝙩, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙙 Æ∂𝙚𝙡𝙢𝙤𝙙. 𝙄 𝙫𝙤𝙬 𝙞𝙩, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙄’𝙢 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩, 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧.
👑One of the novel's greatest strengths is how M.J. Porter brings an obscure period of history vividly to life. With very little surviving historical documentation from this era, much of the narrative is built on informed imagination, yet it never feels implausible. The detailed map of England and the author's historical note further enrich the reading experience.
👑Although the opening chapters take their time introducing the large cast, the story never loses momentum. The constant political intrigue, shifting alliances, and power struggles between kings, nobles, and churchmen kept me thoroughly engaged. The brutal shield-wall battle near the end is spectacularly written and serves as a thrilling climax.
👑Porter also excels at crafting memorable characters. Æthelbald is portrayed as a ruthless, lecherous tyrant, while Offa emerges as a reluctant yet deeply compelling hero whose transformation feels both believable and rewarding. Supporting characters such as Æthelmod, the king's bastard son, Beorcol, the loyal commander, and Heardberht, the king's brother, all add depth and complexity to the story. I also appreciated the comprehensive character list, which made it much easier to keep track of the many historical figures.
Overall, 757 is an outstanding start to a new series. Rich in political intrigue, compelling characters, and brutal action, it left me eager to continue Offa's journey. A must-read for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Matthew Harffy, and anyone who enjoys immersive Anglo-Saxon historical fiction.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
MJ Porter tackles a notoriously difficult era in 757 AD. Writing about eighth century Mercia is no easy task given the sparse historical record of the period. Porter does a respectful job of breathing life into a period where real life documentation is minimal and should be commended for this.
However, because these records are so few and far between, the narrative relies heavily on speculation. The result is a largely fictionalised representation of Æthelbald and Offa – two of the best-known kings in Mercian history. Arguably, Offa would have been remembered a lot more if Alfred the Great had not gained such notoriety.
The book’s main drawback is its pacing. It feels slightly repetitive in places and the constant use of the same themes make it feel like the author is using them as unnecessary padding to stretch the page count.
The climax of the book is where this novel really shines. The battle scenes give some much-needed action and I was rooting for Offa the whole time. As a dog person, Offa’s bond with his dog, Buxwolf (even though the author admits this is fictional), was endearing and emotional in places. It provides an early insight into what kind of king Offa may become in the author’s opinion. The final battle confirms what little we do know about Offa – that he was a very politically shrewd and a capable leader in war.
Despite the flaws mentioned above, the book is a very readable take on the civil war of 757 AD. It serves its purpose in setting up the start of a new trilogy set in Mercian England and I will most likely pick up the next book to see where the story goes.
MJ Porter tackles a notoriously difficult era in 757 AD. Writing about eighth century Mercia is no easy task given the sparse historical record of the period. Porter does a respectful job of breathing life into a period where real life documentation is minimal and should be commended for this.
However, because these records are so few and far between, the narrative relies heavily on speculation. The result is a largely fictionalised representation of Æthelbald and Offa – two of the best-known kings in Mercian history. Arguably, Offa would have been remembered a lot more if Alfred the Great had not gained such notoriety.
The book’s main drawback is its pacing. It feels slightly repetitive in places and the constant use of the same themes make it feel like the author is using them as unnecessary padding to stretch the page count.
The climax of the book is where this novel really shines. The battle scenes give some much-needed action and I was rooting for Offa the whole time. As a dog person, Offa’s bond with his dog, Buxwolf (even though the author admits this is fictional), was endearing and emotional in places. It provides an early insight into what kind of king Offa may become in the author’s opinion. The final battle confirms what little we do know about Offa – that he was a very politically shrewd and a capable leader in war.
Despite the flaws mentioned above, the book is a very readable take on the civil war of 757 AD. It serves its purpose in setting up the start of a new trilogy set in Mercian England and I will most likely pick up the next book to see where the story goes.
July 28, 2026
Great historical fiction! Set in Mercia a long time ago it’s the coming of age (and into power) of Offa, a young aristocratic of age 17. Offa comes to King Æthelbald's court with his parents at the King’s summoning. The visit is a disaster, as Offa’s parents are murdered on their way home, Offa is put in chains and worked like a slave, and his young sister takes his mother’s place in the insatiable King’s bed. Æthelbald's reign has been long and contentious, and he has no legitimate heir, in spite of all the women he has forced into his bed. 757 is Offa’s story of survival and resistance amid the politics and violence of the year 757 (hence the title).
MJ Porter’s storytelling is well done, and her description of the trials and tribulations of Offa and others is compelling. It’s the first in a new series, and I am looking forward to the next books. It is sometimes hard to get through the descriptions of abuse of Offa (and others) but I like the ending. Keeping the various kings, princes and other characters names straight can also be a challenge, I recommend writing them down! A very interesting and enjoyable book overall.
MJ Porter’s storytelling is well done, and her description of the trials and tribulations of Offa and others is compelling. It’s the first in a new series, and I am looking forward to the next books. It is sometimes hard to get through the descriptions of abuse of Offa (and others) but I like the ending. Keeping the various kings, princes and other characters names straight can also be a challenge, I recommend writing them down! A very interesting and enjoyable book overall.
July 22, 2026
757: Offa is being held as a hostage by King Æthelbald as surety for his parents’ future behaviour. Treated badly by all, except for the slaves, he is put to work cleaning out the stables and sleeps, when he is allowed to sleep, with the hounds. When the news reaches him that his parents have been murdered by the Welsh, he becomes determined that he will learn all that he can from his virtual imprisonment so that one day he can exact his revenge providing, that is, that he can stay alive!
A thoroughly absorbing read, Offa is not a King that I know very much about so I found this a fascinating take as to how events in 757 may have come about. I’m looking forward to reading more about Offa in future books.
Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
A thoroughly absorbing read, Offa is not a King that I know very much about so I found this a fascinating take as to how events in 757 may have come about. I’m looking forward to reading more about Offa in future books.
Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
September 26, 2026
Bloody brilliant. Literally bloody as well.
My knowledge of this period of history is not particularly strong, and I have enjoyed starting to learn about it through this gripping, human and at times bloodthirsty novel.
There were moments that made me gag, moments that me laugh and I really got caught up in the personal arc of Offa.
Again, an excellent authors note outlining what history tells us, and where the author has weaved her magic to propel the story. Also a massive fun of Buxwolf, and suggested we name our new dog that. Apparently it’s not befitting for a Jack Russel, so Pumpkin it is.
Loved this, annoyingly paced so it was easy to tell myself “just one more chapter” then end up reading three. Very excited for 758.
My knowledge of this period of history is not particularly strong, and I have enjoyed starting to learn about it through this gripping, human and at times bloodthirsty novel.
There were moments that made me gag, moments that me laugh and I really got caught up in the personal arc of Offa.
Again, an excellent authors note outlining what history tells us, and where the author has weaved her magic to propel the story. Also a massive fun of Buxwolf, and suggested we name our new dog that. Apparently it’s not befitting for a Jack Russel, so Pumpkin it is.
Loved this, annoyingly paced so it was easy to tell myself “just one more chapter” then end up reading three. Very excited for 758.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It is 757 and King AEthelbald has ruled for 40 years. He is a cruel leader and abuses women in his bedchamber. Offa’s mother was rescued from the King and now revenge will be taken. Offa will be forced to join the king’s oath sworn, his sister taken to the bedchamber and his parents killed. What can Offa do to save himself and his sister?
Very well written novel set in the Dark Ages. Very good characters, some good and some bad. Well paced with plenty of action. The future of the Relm is in danger as time comes for a new king to rule. Very enjoyable.
Very well written novel set in the Dark Ages. Very good characters, some good and some bad. Well paced with plenty of action. The future of the Relm is in danger as time comes for a new king to rule. Very enjoyable.
August 28, 2026
Absolutely a page turner
I have read all of the authors work, and I find each one so well put together, the characters, the historical facts and fiction. Every book pulls you into the era. Each new series is just as great as the last, keep on writing, MJ Porter I am looking forward to the next books and series. Brilliant work and thank you for giving avid readers the joy and excitement, you never fail to give us.
I have read all of the authors work, and I find each one so well put together, the characters, the historical facts and fiction. Every book pulls you into the era. Each new series is just as great as the last, keep on writing, MJ Porter I am looking forward to the next books and series. Brilliant work and thank you for giving avid readers the joy and excitement, you never fail to give us.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this novel on a historical point of view, particularly because I knew next to nothing about Offa. I was not so sure though about the characters who were either too good or too bad people. I sometimes felt the novel to be repetitive and a bit slow pace. Overall an entertaining story.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
October 25, 2026
Brought this book on a whim after a recommendation on social media (dam it for knowing all). Never read this author before. Superb, and Pre-ordered the next one. As a complete aside, I walked Offa’s Dyke end to end the summer I completed my GCSEs.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An immersive dive into Eighth Century Britain. Violent yet personal. Emotive of the times
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