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The Vintener Trilogy #1
FIELDS OF GLORY
The year is 1346 and King Edward III is restless. Despite earlier victories his army has still not achieved a major breakthrough and the French crown remains intact. Determined to bring France under English rule and the French army to its knees he has regrouped and planned a new route of attack.
And on the beaches of Normandy his men now mass, ready to march through France to victory. But the French are nowhere to be seen. Edward knows that the worst thing he could do would be to take the battle to the French, where they will have the advantage and so he sets up camp near a small hill at Crecy and waits.
The Battle of Crecy will be a decisive turning point in the Hundred Years' Wars. This is the story of that battle and the men who won it.
And on the beaches of Normandy his men now mass, ready to march through France to victory. But the French are nowhere to be seen. Edward knows that the worst thing he could do would be to take the battle to the French, where they will have the advantage and so he sets up camp near a small hill at Crecy and waits.
The Battle of Crecy will be a decisive turning point in the Hundred Years' Wars. This is the story of that battle and the men who won it.
461 pages, Paperback
First published June 5, 2014
265 people are currently reading
672 people want to read
About the author
Michael Jecks
113 books617 followersMichael Jecks is a best-selling writer of historical novels. The son of an Actuary, and the youngest of four brothers, he worked in the computer industry before becoming a novelist full time in 1994
He is the author of the internationally popular Templar series, perhaps the longest crime series written by a living author. Unusually, the series looks again at actual events and murders committed about the early fourteenth century, a fabulous time of treachery, civil war, deceit and corruption. Famine, war and disease led to widespread despair, and yet the people showed themselves to be resilient. The series is available as ebooks and all paper formats from Harper Collins, Headline and Simon and Schuster. More recently he has completed his Vintener Trilogy, three stories in his Bloody Mary series, and a new Crusades story set in 1096, Pilgrim's War, following some of the people in the first Crusade on their long pilgrimage to Jerusalem. He has also written a highly acclaimed modern spy thriller, Act of Vengeance.
His books have won him international acclaim and in 2007 his Death Ship of Dartmouth was shortlisted for the Harrogate prize for the best crime novel of the year.
A member of the Society of Authors and Royal Literary Society, Jecks was the Chairman of the Crime Writers' Association in 2004-2005. In 2005 he became a member of the Detection Club.
From 1998 he organised the CWA Debut Dagger competition for two years, helping unpublished authors to win their first contracts He judged the CWA/Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for three years.
Michael Jecks is a popular speaker at literary festivals and historical meetings. He is a popular after-dinner and motivational speaker and has spoken at events from Colombia to Italy, Portugal to Alaska.
His own highlights are: being the Grand Marshal of the first parade at the New Orleans 2014 Mardi Gras, designing the Michael Jecks fountain pen for Conway Stewart, and being the International Guest of Honour at the Crime Writers of Canada Bloody Words convention.
Michael lives, walks, writes and paints in North Dartmoor.
He is the author of the internationally popular Templar series, perhaps the longest crime series written by a living author. Unusually, the series looks again at actual events and murders committed about the early fourteenth century, a fabulous time of treachery, civil war, deceit and corruption. Famine, war and disease led to widespread despair, and yet the people showed themselves to be resilient. The series is available as ebooks and all paper formats from Harper Collins, Headline and Simon and Schuster. More recently he has completed his Vintener Trilogy, three stories in his Bloody Mary series, and a new Crusades story set in 1096, Pilgrim's War, following some of the people in the first Crusade on their long pilgrimage to Jerusalem. He has also written a highly acclaimed modern spy thriller, Act of Vengeance.
His books have won him international acclaim and in 2007 his Death Ship of Dartmouth was shortlisted for the Harrogate prize for the best crime novel of the year.
A member of the Society of Authors and Royal Literary Society, Jecks was the Chairman of the Crime Writers' Association in 2004-2005. In 2005 he became a member of the Detection Club.
From 1998 he organised the CWA Debut Dagger competition for two years, helping unpublished authors to win their first contracts He judged the CWA/Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for three years.
Michael Jecks is a popular speaker at literary festivals and historical meetings. He is a popular after-dinner and motivational speaker and has spoken at events from Colombia to Italy, Portugal to Alaska.
His own highlights are: being the Grand Marshal of the first parade at the New Orleans 2014 Mardi Gras, designing the Michael Jecks fountain pen for Conway Stewart, and being the International Guest of Honour at the Crime Writers of Canada Bloody Words convention.
Michael lives, walks, writes and paints in North Dartmoor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 15, 2015
In the opening novel of a purposed trilogy on the Hundred Years War, Mr. Jecks has done an excellent job of making the common soldiers/archers in Edward IIIs army come alive. The author follows a unit of 20 archers, called a vintaine, from their landing near Cherbourg through to the Battle of Crecy in 1346. While following them the reader gets to know what must have been the types of men who made up Edward’s army.
The main character, Berenger Flipper, is the leader of the vintaine. He is very well drawn and complex. While patriotic, he is doing his duty, but at times is a loss of how or what he should do or even why he is doing it. He and his men are in the service Sir John de Sully, an actual historical person, and Flipper shares some experiences in France with Sir John from twenty years before.
In addition to the archers, another story Mr. Jecks choses to write about is that of a master gunner. The gunner is not really accepted by the army as a whole, who view him as in league with the Devil because of the smell and noise of gunpowder. He camps near Bergenger vintaine and becomes attached to them. With this storyline, the author explores the affect gunpowder had and would have on warfare.
Mr. Jecks follows the army through the siege of Caen, the hot march almost to the gates of Paris and then the crossing of the Seine and Somme Rivers to the field near Crecy that becomes the site of the famous battle. As usual, Mr. Jecks writes very good battle sequences, and in this volume, he also writes well of the march that led up to them. I felt I got to know the men of the vintaine and their motives. They are all over the map; they include revenge, adventure, escaping the dull life of the farmstead or the law. I thought this was well drawn. The effect war has on the men who fight it, is also well done. The horror that was medieval warfare is well illustrated. From the results of a siege to the aftermath of a pitched battle the results are not for the faint of heart. The members of the vintaine loot and kill their way across France and in the case of Caen enrich themselves as well.
Mr. Jecks, who normally writes historical mysteries, has done an excellent job of exploring and explaining the men who fought Edward’s wars. I would give this 4.25 stars rounded to 4 for Good Reads.
The main character, Berenger Flipper, is the leader of the vintaine. He is very well drawn and complex. While patriotic, he is doing his duty, but at times is a loss of how or what he should do or even why he is doing it. He and his men are in the service Sir John de Sully, an actual historical person, and Flipper shares some experiences in France with Sir John from twenty years before.
In addition to the archers, another story Mr. Jecks choses to write about is that of a master gunner. The gunner is not really accepted by the army as a whole, who view him as in league with the Devil because of the smell and noise of gunpowder. He camps near Bergenger vintaine and becomes attached to them. With this storyline, the author explores the affect gunpowder had and would have on warfare.
Mr. Jecks follows the army through the siege of Caen, the hot march almost to the gates of Paris and then the crossing of the Seine and Somme Rivers to the field near Crecy that becomes the site of the famous battle. As usual, Mr. Jecks writes very good battle sequences, and in this volume, he also writes well of the march that led up to them. I felt I got to know the men of the vintaine and their motives. They are all over the map; they include revenge, adventure, escaping the dull life of the farmstead or the law. I thought this was well drawn. The effect war has on the men who fight it, is also well done. The horror that was medieval warfare is well illustrated. From the results of a siege to the aftermath of a pitched battle the results are not for the faint of heart. The members of the vintaine loot and kill their way across France and in the case of Caen enrich themselves as well.
Mr. Jecks, who normally writes historical mysteries, has done an excellent job of exploring and explaining the men who fought Edward’s wars. I would give this 4.25 stars rounded to 4 for Good Reads.
January 8, 2016
Battles and intrigue, and the build up to the Battle of Crécy. An action-packed tale of soldiers on campaign in France.
---------------
I bought this after I won a copy of the sequel, Blood on the Sand. I always like to read a series in order.
This is the first novel I have read by Michael Jecks. He is well known for his medieval whodunits, but Fields of Glory is a more straightforward tale of the English campaign and the build up to the Battle of Crécy.
There is some intrigue in the earlier parts of the story, with questions being asked of the mysterious background of one young character, Ed. There are also suspicions of witchcraft when things begin to go wrong for the soldiers after they are joined by a puzzling young French woman.
It is the characters and their stories, their interactions and motives and the day-to-day running of the camp where Jecks' writing shines best. The first third of the novel is rich in the detail of new characters being introduced, leaving the reader expectant to discover what exactly is going on and what will happen next. There is a lot of action in this early part of the book, but not on a grand scale, more on a personal level - the girl being attacked on the road, young Ed getting into a scrape with some Welsh archers. This is the best part of the book, with great pacing and strong characterisation.
[Spoiler in the next paragraph, if you know nothing about the Battle of Crécy!]
As the inevitable battle approaches, I found the tension lessened. We know from the history books that Crécy is coming and we know the English will win the day (pretty sure that can't be classed as a spoiler, but you never know!), so when the individual characters' stories are less prominent in the plot, becoming secondary to the fate of the King's host, I became less interested in the outcome of the story.
[End of spoilers, if they really are spoilers!]
Despite the slight lessening of jeopardy and tension towards the end, it was a very enjoyable read and I also learnt something about the politics and circumstances surrounding The Battle of Crécy that I hadn't known beforehand. The characters were well-crafted and interesting and I want to know what will happen to all of them in the next book. The most important question, having finished the book is: do I want to read the sequel Blood on the Sand? Undoubtedly!
---------------
I bought this after I won a copy of the sequel, Blood on the Sand. I always like to read a series in order.
This is the first novel I have read by Michael Jecks. He is well known for his medieval whodunits, but Fields of Glory is a more straightforward tale of the English campaign and the build up to the Battle of Crécy.
There is some intrigue in the earlier parts of the story, with questions being asked of the mysterious background of one young character, Ed. There are also suspicions of witchcraft when things begin to go wrong for the soldiers after they are joined by a puzzling young French woman.
It is the characters and their stories, their interactions and motives and the day-to-day running of the camp where Jecks' writing shines best. The first third of the novel is rich in the detail of new characters being introduced, leaving the reader expectant to discover what exactly is going on and what will happen next. There is a lot of action in this early part of the book, but not on a grand scale, more on a personal level - the girl being attacked on the road, young Ed getting into a scrape with some Welsh archers. This is the best part of the book, with great pacing and strong characterisation.
[Spoiler in the next paragraph, if you know nothing about the Battle of Crécy!]
As the inevitable battle approaches, I found the tension lessened. We know from the history books that Crécy is coming and we know the English will win the day (pretty sure that can't be classed as a spoiler, but you never know!), so when the individual characters' stories are less prominent in the plot, becoming secondary to the fate of the King's host, I became less interested in the outcome of the story.
[End of spoilers, if they really are spoilers!]
Despite the slight lessening of jeopardy and tension towards the end, it was a very enjoyable read and I also learnt something about the politics and circumstances surrounding The Battle of Crécy that I hadn't known beforehand. The characters were well-crafted and interesting and I want to know what will happen to all of them in the next book. The most important question, having finished the book is: do I want to read the sequel Blood on the Sand? Undoubtedly!
May 24, 2017
The year is 1346 and King Edward III is restless. Despite earlier victories his army has still not achieved a major breakthrough and the French crown remains intact. Determined to bring France under English rule and the French army to its knees he has regrouped and planned a new route of attack. On the beaches of Normandy his men now mass, ready to march through France to victory and the Battle of Crecy.
Fields of Glory is the start of a series of books beginning with the lead up to The Battle of Crecy in 1346. At the start of the book we are introduced to various characters; first we have the Knight Banneret Sir John de Sully from Devon, under Sir John we have Grandarse the Centener and leader of a hundred men. The main focus of the story however is on Berenger Fripper who under Grandarse leads a group of 20 men called a vintaine.
Jecks has already written 32 medieval mysteries in the Templar series and the meticulous research on the period really shines through with this book. The story is really about the social history of the period and the effects of war and the atrocities that follow.
We see first-hand the effects on the individual characters within the vintaine, whilst on campaign across France. Jecks manages to show us just how awful war really is – following a cause that many really didn’t understand. We are shown in vivid detail the horrors of war, the pillage and slaughter of Caen and its aftermath.
We also experience the beliefs and superstitions of the time as well; especially how some of the characters react to Beatrice who they believe is a witch and the cause of recent unfavourable bad luck. Young Ed ‘The Donkey,’ an orphan who witnesses his family being slaughtered only to witness even more atrocities whilst in France, has to come to terms with what he’s witnessed whilst in combat.
Mostly the book shows us the camaraderie that must have existed between a group of ordinary men whilst on a war campaign. The story goes though the various movements of the English forces as they march across the French countryside from Normandy to Caen and beyond, ending with the Battle of Crecy.
The end of the book gives us a vividly detailed description of the Battle of Crecy and the Welsh and English bowmen who fought there with such devastating effect. A highly recommended book in a new trilogy.
Fields of Glory is the start of a series of books beginning with the lead up to The Battle of Crecy in 1346. At the start of the book we are introduced to various characters; first we have the Knight Banneret Sir John de Sully from Devon, under Sir John we have Grandarse the Centener and leader of a hundred men. The main focus of the story however is on Berenger Fripper who under Grandarse leads a group of 20 men called a vintaine.
Jecks has already written 32 medieval mysteries in the Templar series and the meticulous research on the period really shines through with this book. The story is really about the social history of the period and the effects of war and the atrocities that follow.
We see first-hand the effects on the individual characters within the vintaine, whilst on campaign across France. Jecks manages to show us just how awful war really is – following a cause that many really didn’t understand. We are shown in vivid detail the horrors of war, the pillage and slaughter of Caen and its aftermath.
We also experience the beliefs and superstitions of the time as well; especially how some of the characters react to Beatrice who they believe is a witch and the cause of recent unfavourable bad luck. Young Ed ‘The Donkey,’ an orphan who witnesses his family being slaughtered only to witness even more atrocities whilst in France, has to come to terms with what he’s witnessed whilst in combat.
Mostly the book shows us the camaraderie that must have existed between a group of ordinary men whilst on a war campaign. The story goes though the various movements of the English forces as they march across the French countryside from Normandy to Caen and beyond, ending with the Battle of Crecy.
The end of the book gives us a vividly detailed description of the Battle of Crecy and the Welsh and English bowmen who fought there with such devastating effect. A highly recommended book in a new trilogy.
June 26, 2014
This is the first in a trilogy that involves segments of the 100 Years War. It tells of the campaign by the English King to invade Normandy and beyond as well as claim the throne of France. It culminates in the Battle of Crécy 26 August 1346. The historical research is quite good and the plausible story of people fighting or caught up in events is masterfully done (rather expected with Jecks' writing history). I am not going to give anything away. Jecks does not hold back on the horrors of medieval warfare (war in any era is a horror) so the faint hearted needs be aware of that before cracking the cover. As usual, some things happen, or don't happen, that one may be totally surprised by and which richly spice the work. I had difficulty in putting the book down to take a break. The publishers story outline should be adequate to get one's interest but again, I am not going to give any part of the story itself away so that no one is disappointed in their reading. I just hope that I don't have to wait a year for title number two. By the way, I even survived without my favorite characters from Jecks' Templar series finding new ones of interest. Please, do take time for this title in whatever format you chose. I don't believe you will be sorry if you like exceptional historical fiction. Then, tell a friend!
May 1, 2025
Fields of Glory by Michael Jecks is a novel about the Hundred Years’ War in all its bloody glory. Featuring an ensemble cast of characters, every person has their own story to tell, hidden behind the veneer of bloody war, and the demands of an intolerant king, who appears to preach reconciliation with the French but finds every excuse to change his mind.
I can’t say any of this ragtag collection of men is particularly endearing. Sir John cares more for his horse than his men, while King Edward and the Prince of Wales are just as thoughtless regarding the lives they’re destroying. This makes it a very realistic portrayal, if not for the faint-hearted. Indeed, if seeking some semblance of empathy between the characters, we must look to the men of the Vintaine, and not those who command them.
A blood-drenched traipse through France will bring our characters the opportunity to earn battle booty, if only they can live through it. Fields of Glory is a must-read for fans of the genre and those interested in the Hundred Years’ War.
I can’t say any of this ragtag collection of men is particularly endearing. Sir John cares more for his horse than his men, while King Edward and the Prince of Wales are just as thoughtless regarding the lives they’re destroying. This makes it a very realistic portrayal, if not for the faint-hearted. Indeed, if seeking some semblance of empathy between the characters, we must look to the men of the Vintaine, and not those who command them.
A blood-drenched traipse through France will bring our characters the opportunity to earn battle booty, if only they can live through it. Fields of Glory is a must-read for fans of the genre and those interested in the Hundred Years’ War.
August 7, 2014
This is a new historical fiction series by Michael Jecks, the first of a trilogy about the Hundred Years War. The entry into France and the progress through the French countryside by Edward III and his army is seen primarily from the standpoint of a group of archers in the army. As is usual in Jecks' novels the characters are realistic and complex people, almost every one with his or her own good qualities and shortcomings. The novel does not romanticize warfare or the lot of the common people, either the soldiers of both armies or the French peasants. It ends with the battle at Crecy and leaves enough loose ends regarding some of the major characters to leave me looking forward to the second book in the series, hoping I meet some of them again in that story.
July 28, 2017
This is the first in an amazing new trilogy by Michael Jecks - he also wrote the fantastic series about an ex-Knight Templar. This trilogy covers King Edward III's campaigns to claim the French throne (to which he had a good claim in fact, but as an English King no practical chance of getting).
Jecks' books are always good - he manages to combine the real humanity of his characters, without making them 21st century people in funny clothes. This is a great example of that, with a good plot, interesting characters, and an impressive but not ostentatious historical accuracy.
Jecks' books are always good - he manages to combine the real humanity of his characters, without making them 21st century people in funny clothes. This is a great example of that, with a good plot, interesting characters, and an impressive but not ostentatious historical accuracy.
December 8, 2014
Previous reviewers here have done a good job of dishing out well-deserved praise for this volume. Michael Jecks has not slacked off in his meticulous work. I can add only that this story validates my long-held personal belief that I don't know how anyone survived a medieval battle (least of all any of the losing side); for example, 150,000 arrows from 10,000 English archers -- all in one minute! -- and maybe only 50,000 when they got tired later (correct me if my memory is wrong here; around pp 430-450). As usual, Michael gives us superb characterization and plot. Even though this is a historical novel, it is vividly realistic, conveying the camaraderie of the vintaine, the personal stores of some individuals, the boredom of marching, the privation of the troops when things aren't going so well, the horrible fate of the peasants and the utter terror afforded by melees. Fans of historical novels will certainly not be disappointed. Take that as typical British understatement -- even though I am a Yank!
January 3, 2016
This was a great read. I kneow a bit about the campaign leading to the Battle of Crecy but this brought those events to life through the lives of a close group of archers, forming a Vintaine (20 at full strength). A shocking a brutal campaign. Nothing very romantic about close combat in the 1300s. The story felt authentic and, I believe, is well researched - though always with a novelists eye.
This was an easy to read, fast moving page-turner (even though we knew who won!).
I don't usually read historical novels but, having been impressed by Michael at our Devon Book Club event in Crediton in November last year, I was pleased to read this one. I look forward to reading more by Michael in the future.
This was an easy to read, fast moving page-turner (even though we knew who won!).
I don't usually read historical novels but, having been impressed by Michael at our Devon Book Club event in Crediton in November last year, I was pleased to read this one. I look forward to reading more by Michael in the future.
February 23, 2016
Didn't really engage me. Too many sub-plots only fleetingly (and inconsistently, IMO) skated over and never properly developed. Characters not developed enough to arouse any empathy or sympathy.
And my biggest bug-bear - reference to the Prince of Wales as "Your Majesty", when (a) only the monarch would ever be referred to as that; and (b) English kings were never 'majestic' before Henry VIII. Sloppy.
However, it was readable and had some good battle descriptions.
And my biggest bug-bear - reference to the Prince of Wales as "Your Majesty", when (a) only the monarch would ever be referred to as that; and (b) English kings were never 'majestic' before Henry VIII. Sloppy.
However, it was readable and had some good battle descriptions.
July 9, 2016
This was a great book. If I could have I would have finished it in one sitting - work got in the way of that plan. I enjoyed the story and the writing style very much. Looking forward to the next in the series. The research was well done and the story follows a reasonable line of battle. I would highly recommend it to anyone! And I have been recommending it to friends and family.
December 3, 2014
This book is a very good account of the battles at the beginning of the 100 years war through the eyes of one of the archers in the English army. It is easy reading that keeps you engrossed.
dnf
February 17, 2016Nope. Not my thing, Super bored already. Usually I like to give a book at least 50 pages to make me interested in something but not this time.
Shame sounded interesting.
Shame sounded interesting.
paused-abandoned
January 24, 2017Surprisingly shallow characters. It seems to lack everything I liked about the Knights Templar series...a great disappointment.
October 11, 2021
Prolific easy to read writer.Did enjoy this one .
September 10, 2025
Let me begin by saying I've been reading Michael Jecks’ books since the 1990s. I've read nearly everything he's written. We even connected online. This is the first in his Vintener series. The fourth just got published.
The main character is Sir John de Sully, a real minor nobleman who fought with The Black Prince, Prince Edward of Woodstock. Sir John fought at Crécy at age 63. He fought well into his 80s, on horseback and in full armor. He was again with The Black Prince at the Battle of Nájera at age 86. He died at 106, unheard of in the 14th century. He was the only minor nobleman to be included in the Knights of the Garter, and his flag still flies with honor at Westminster Cathedral. So I dedicate this review in honor of Sir John de Sully.
The great English fleet beached at Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue on July 12, 1346. King Edward III was going to press his claim to the French throne by force of arms. His claim was legitimate, but the French nobles were having none of it. Among his army was Sir John de Sully, leading his 100 men-at-arms. Though 63 years old Sir John was still a deadly fighter. The beach head was hard won, but the English held their ground and disembarked a sizable army.
Beatrice Pouillet was a poor servant girl recently dismissed from the household for which she worked. Her father had been hanged as a traitor. Now, she took care of a sick old woman. One day, her charge died, and the Parish priest tried to rape her. She fought him off and accidently killed him. She had nowhere to go and was desperate.
Ed, an orphan boy, was found by Berenger Fripper, leader of 20 men, of Sir John's 100. Fripper looked out for the boy and made use of him to fetch and carry. He had seen his first battle and was unmoved by the blood and gore. Berenger was disturbed by Ed's lack of empathy and obvious excitement at the blood. Fripper decided to keep a close eye on him. The group gave him the nickname of Donkey because of what he did for them.
Beatrice falls in with the vinataine, and though French, convinces them of her hatred of her own people. She latches on to Ed because he is also an outsider and poses no threat to her.
After months of chasing the French army, not being able to cross the Seine because the French destroyed the bridges, and running short of food because they destroyed the crops, villages and cities in their path, the English army finally engaged them in battle. And it was a fierce and bloody one, with the English heavily outnumbered.
I'll stop here, reminding you that this was part of The Hundred Years War between the two countries.
The battle scenes in this book are amazing. Michael Jecks has been writing medieval battle scenes for decades with great expertise. You feel like you are there with the knights and men-at-arms. I found myself holding my breath even though I knew full well that Sir John would survive to fight on and die in bed.
I highly recommend this if you like Medieval history, action, well-formed characters, and great plots. The next in the series is Blood On The Sand.
The main character is Sir John de Sully, a real minor nobleman who fought with The Black Prince, Prince Edward of Woodstock. Sir John fought at Crécy at age 63. He fought well into his 80s, on horseback and in full armor. He was again with The Black Prince at the Battle of Nájera at age 86. He died at 106, unheard of in the 14th century. He was the only minor nobleman to be included in the Knights of the Garter, and his flag still flies with honor at Westminster Cathedral. So I dedicate this review in honor of Sir John de Sully.
The great English fleet beached at Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue on July 12, 1346. King Edward III was going to press his claim to the French throne by force of arms. His claim was legitimate, but the French nobles were having none of it. Among his army was Sir John de Sully, leading his 100 men-at-arms. Though 63 years old Sir John was still a deadly fighter. The beach head was hard won, but the English held their ground and disembarked a sizable army.
Beatrice Pouillet was a poor servant girl recently dismissed from the household for which she worked. Her father had been hanged as a traitor. Now, she took care of a sick old woman. One day, her charge died, and the Parish priest tried to rape her. She fought him off and accidently killed him. She had nowhere to go and was desperate.
Ed, an orphan boy, was found by Berenger Fripper, leader of 20 men, of Sir John's 100. Fripper looked out for the boy and made use of him to fetch and carry. He had seen his first battle and was unmoved by the blood and gore. Berenger was disturbed by Ed's lack of empathy and obvious excitement at the blood. Fripper decided to keep a close eye on him. The group gave him the nickname of Donkey because of what he did for them.
Beatrice falls in with the vinataine, and though French, convinces them of her hatred of her own people. She latches on to Ed because he is also an outsider and poses no threat to her.
After months of chasing the French army, not being able to cross the Seine because the French destroyed the bridges, and running short of food because they destroyed the crops, villages and cities in their path, the English army finally engaged them in battle. And it was a fierce and bloody one, with the English heavily outnumbered.
I'll stop here, reminding you that this was part of The Hundred Years War between the two countries.
The battle scenes in this book are amazing. Michael Jecks has been writing medieval battle scenes for decades with great expertise. You feel like you are there with the knights and men-at-arms. I found myself holding my breath even though I knew full well that Sir John would survive to fight on and die in bed.
I highly recommend this if you like Medieval history, action, well-formed characters, and great plots. The next in the series is Blood On The Sand.
April 27, 2025
Review
This was my first foray into the works of Michael Jecks and being billed as being perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Conn Iggulden expectations were high.
Fields of Glory follows the English army from the beaches of Normandy, through destruction and mayhem to Paris, before retreat and the inevitable battle with the French army.
History is a massive submit and I’ll be the first to admit I’m no expert but what I’d like to think I am an expert in, is spotting authors who have a talent for storytelling, and in particular historial fiction.
The author manages to impart his knowledge of the period but expertly weaves this with character arcs. History is never boring but you need to get your hooks into the reader to keep them invested.
I think what made this story stand out was that each of the characters have their own motivations and part to play in the story but they are treated as cattle essentially.. it’s brutal and honest..these men will need to earn any glory and its the relationships, and sometimes the disconnection between the men and those who command them which really felt real to me.
Being new to the author I felt at home pretty quickly, the style very much hit the mark as as Bernard Cornwell fan but if you are new to the genre do give the book the time it deserves. The style and pace are perfect but this is not a light read.. you will really get engrossed as there’s so many minute details added which I just loved.
Michael Jecks commands the reader..and pushes your thoughts exactly the way the men must have felt at the time..you start to detest Sir John, King Edward and the Prince of Wales as they care little for the lives that will be lost. These moments are vivid but certainly disconnected as we see things through the eyes of the men fighting at the front.
There are moments of brutality that will stay with you, the Kings justice..it’s emotionally jarring and thought provoking. I felt the focus of the book allowed the reader to see the brutality from both sides, not only the violence carried out on the French but also the effect this had on the men themselves.. you can see the humanity and light within their eyes die as the “justice” continues.
Awfully good read and a cracking start for a series. Jecks managed to surpass any expectations I may have had with the sheer detail, and what felt like a brutality honest portrayal seen from those men’s eyes.
5* from me.. and great to see Boldwood getting involved. As a publisher they are killing it with the historical fiction genre and never fail to introduce me to top notch authors.
This was my first foray into the works of Michael Jecks and being billed as being perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Conn Iggulden expectations were high.
Fields of Glory follows the English army from the beaches of Normandy, through destruction and mayhem to Paris, before retreat and the inevitable battle with the French army.
History is a massive submit and I’ll be the first to admit I’m no expert but what I’d like to think I am an expert in, is spotting authors who have a talent for storytelling, and in particular historial fiction.
The author manages to impart his knowledge of the period but expertly weaves this with character arcs. History is never boring but you need to get your hooks into the reader to keep them invested.
I think what made this story stand out was that each of the characters have their own motivations and part to play in the story but they are treated as cattle essentially.. it’s brutal and honest..these men will need to earn any glory and its the relationships, and sometimes the disconnection between the men and those who command them which really felt real to me.
Being new to the author I felt at home pretty quickly, the style very much hit the mark as as Bernard Cornwell fan but if you are new to the genre do give the book the time it deserves. The style and pace are perfect but this is not a light read.. you will really get engrossed as there’s so many minute details added which I just loved.
Michael Jecks commands the reader..and pushes your thoughts exactly the way the men must have felt at the time..you start to detest Sir John, King Edward and the Prince of Wales as they care little for the lives that will be lost. These moments are vivid but certainly disconnected as we see things through the eyes of the men fighting at the front.
There are moments of brutality that will stay with you, the Kings justice..it’s emotionally jarring and thought provoking. I felt the focus of the book allowed the reader to see the brutality from both sides, not only the violence carried out on the French but also the effect this had on the men themselves.. you can see the humanity and light within their eyes die as the “justice” continues.
Awfully good read and a cracking start for a series. Jecks managed to surpass any expectations I may have had with the sheer detail, and what felt like a brutality honest portrayal seen from those men’s eyes.
5* from me.. and great to see Boldwood getting involved. As a publisher they are killing it with the historical fiction genre and never fail to introduce me to top notch authors.
August 22, 2017
MICHAEL JECKS has written many medieval mysteries featuring a defrocked Templar set in the early 14th Century. I have read about a dozen of those mysteries, the last one about five years ago. So many books, so little time! A few years ago, Mr. Jecks branched out to write novels about other historical events but in the same general time period - the 14th Century. I have just finished one of those books - FIELDS OF GLORY. If you are a student of this period or just want to know a little more about it, READ THIS BOOK!
The time is 1346. Edward III sits on the throne of England and he claims he is the rightful King of France as well. He launches what became known as The 100 Years War. Included in that series of battles between the French and the English are the Battle of Crecy, the Battle of Poitiers and the Battle of Agincourt, three great English victories in medieval warfare. You probably remember hearing the term "the 100 Years War" but not much else about this lengthy struggle. Mr. Jecks wraps up the package in a very readable way so that the causes become clear.
FIELDS OF GLORY describes the events leading up to the Battle of Crecy in 1346. The main hero is Fripper, an archer leading a troop of 20 archers in Edward's army. Other important people are a cannoneer; a young, orphaned French woman (whose martyred father was a gunpowder maker); a young, orphaned boy (called The Donkey, for the services he offers the archers - fetching and resupplying); a knight in charge of Fripper's band (a real person who died at the age of 106!); Edward III and his son Edward the Black Prince. The Battle of Crecy is notable for at least three reasons.
The French outnumbered the English by at least three or four to one. But the English leaders chose the location at which they wanted to fight and that suited its army’s abilities and manpower. Second, the British had thousands of long-bow archers. That weapon had a greater range than the French crossbow and the arrows could penetrate armor at a couple of hundred yards. And third, the English had cannon. Crude yes, but devastating when fired at close range.
Mr. Jecks' descriptions of camp life and military action are superb. In my mind's eye, I could see and feel the hardships and the blood lust of the characters. Thankfully there are additional titles in this series.
GO! BUY! READ!
The time is 1346. Edward III sits on the throne of England and he claims he is the rightful King of France as well. He launches what became known as The 100 Years War. Included in that series of battles between the French and the English are the Battle of Crecy, the Battle of Poitiers and the Battle of Agincourt, three great English victories in medieval warfare. You probably remember hearing the term "the 100 Years War" but not much else about this lengthy struggle. Mr. Jecks wraps up the package in a very readable way so that the causes become clear.
FIELDS OF GLORY describes the events leading up to the Battle of Crecy in 1346. The main hero is Fripper, an archer leading a troop of 20 archers in Edward's army. Other important people are a cannoneer; a young, orphaned French woman (whose martyred father was a gunpowder maker); a young, orphaned boy (called The Donkey, for the services he offers the archers - fetching and resupplying); a knight in charge of Fripper's band (a real person who died at the age of 106!); Edward III and his son Edward the Black Prince. The Battle of Crecy is notable for at least three reasons.
The French outnumbered the English by at least three or four to one. But the English leaders chose the location at which they wanted to fight and that suited its army’s abilities and manpower. Second, the British had thousands of long-bow archers. That weapon had a greater range than the French crossbow and the arrows could penetrate armor at a couple of hundred yards. And third, the English had cannon. Crude yes, but devastating when fired at close range.
Mr. Jecks' descriptions of camp life and military action are superb. In my mind's eye, I could see and feel the hardships and the blood lust of the characters. Thankfully there are additional titles in this series.
GO! BUY! READ!
January 3, 2020
After 32 successful books in his Medieval West Country Mystery series, author Michael Jecks’ latest historial fiction thriller switches period and location.
In “Fields of Glory,” Jecks crosses the Channel and plunges head first into the Hundred Years’ War.
The year is 1346 and King Edward III is restless. Despite his efforts, earlier victories, and his own hopes and dreams for a gleaming legacy, his English army has still not achieved a major breakthrough and the French crown remains intact. Determined to bring France under English rule and the French army to its knees, Edward has regrouped and with plans for a new route of attack.
On the beaches of Normandy his men now mass, ready to march through France to victory. Alas, the French are nowhere to be seen! Edward knows that the worst thing he could do would be to take the battle to the French, where they will have the advantage. (“Merde!” he exclaims. What is a roi garçon to do!) He sets up a camp near a small hill at Crecy and waits.
Students of history already know the outcome of that battle, of course, as the Battle of Crecy will be a decisive turning point in the War.
Jecks, now, has brought us another story of that battle and the men who won it. As with his other novels, he is a master at creating suspense while at the same time staying within the boundaries of history. Adding the fictional account, through the eyes of his characters (and certainly that of Edward III) is a delightful touch—even in the bloody business of that war.
As he did with No. 32 of his previous series ("Templar’s Acre"), Jeck’s writing is meticulous in detail, but not to the point that it bogs down. Medieval history students will find this account more than just “interesting.”
In “Fields of Glory,” Jecks crosses the Channel and plunges head first into the Hundred Years’ War.
The year is 1346 and King Edward III is restless. Despite his efforts, earlier victories, and his own hopes and dreams for a gleaming legacy, his English army has still not achieved a major breakthrough and the French crown remains intact. Determined to bring France under English rule and the French army to its knees, Edward has regrouped and with plans for a new route of attack.
On the beaches of Normandy his men now mass, ready to march through France to victory. Alas, the French are nowhere to be seen! Edward knows that the worst thing he could do would be to take the battle to the French, where they will have the advantage. (“Merde!” he exclaims. What is a roi garçon to do!) He sets up a camp near a small hill at Crecy and waits.
Students of history already know the outcome of that battle, of course, as the Battle of Crecy will be a decisive turning point in the War.
Jecks, now, has brought us another story of that battle and the men who won it. As with his other novels, he is a master at creating suspense while at the same time staying within the boundaries of history. Adding the fictional account, through the eyes of his characters (and certainly that of Edward III) is a delightful touch—even in the bloody business of that war.
As he did with No. 32 of his previous series ("Templar’s Acre"), Jeck’s writing is meticulous in detail, but not to the point that it bogs down. Medieval history students will find this account more than just “interesting.”
April 11, 2018
Fields of Glory - the battle against continuity
I am not sure if what I have written would be seen as spoilers - nevertheless, reader beware!
I finished this novel today. Though not a terribly heavy read, I had some major issues with this book. First off, there are a lot of characters, who all have names, last names and nicknames, but who don't really differentiate themselves. It took me a long time to figure out who was speaking to whom and what their traits were... not inducive to an immersing read.
The second, and most glaring problem, I had, is the continuity of the story. It sometimes feels as if the author wrote a scene, paused for a few weeks, and then continued writing without checking his previous work. An example is when the English have established a bridgehead and a thousand french horsemen and 2000 foot soldiers attack 40 archers, backed up by 2 dozen english knights. The next paragraph we read of the combat itself and then we are told that the french are nearly all dead. Now, this really disrupts the novel's flow for me and is basically just bad editing or writing. Also, it gives a good example of the rather unrealistic approach of the book. A second example is when a sudden rainshower dampens the crossbows of the enemy, but the english gunpowder is perfectly fine.
Lastly, again about the characters; they just don't do it for me. I could not really care about anyone in the company except maybe Clip, the comic relief doomsayer.
So all in all not a book I would recommend. It has a few funny moments and at times I enjoyed it for 40 pages at a time, but then there would be some cringeworthy mistake and I'd be out of it again.
I am not sure if what I have written would be seen as spoilers - nevertheless, reader beware!
I finished this novel today. Though not a terribly heavy read, I had some major issues with this book. First off, there are a lot of characters, who all have names, last names and nicknames, but who don't really differentiate themselves. It took me a long time to figure out who was speaking to whom and what their traits were... not inducive to an immersing read.
The second, and most glaring problem, I had, is the continuity of the story. It sometimes feels as if the author wrote a scene, paused for a few weeks, and then continued writing without checking his previous work. An example is when the English have established a bridgehead and a thousand french horsemen and 2000 foot soldiers attack 40 archers, backed up by 2 dozen english knights. The next paragraph we read of the combat itself and then we are told that the french are nearly all dead. Now, this really disrupts the novel's flow for me and is basically just bad editing or writing. Also, it gives a good example of the rather unrealistic approach of the book. A second example is when a sudden rainshower dampens the crossbows of the enemy, but the english gunpowder is perfectly fine.
Lastly, again about the characters; they just don't do it for me. I could not really care about anyone in the company except maybe Clip, the comic relief doomsayer.
So all in all not a book I would recommend. It has a few funny moments and at times I enjoyed it for 40 pages at a time, but then there would be some cringeworthy mistake and I'd be out of it again.
May 1, 2025
Historical fiction readers looking for a book that will keep them up all night need look no further than Fields of Glory by Michael Jecks.
1346, France, and an ambitious king is desperate for more power and glory. King Edward III wants to bring France under his own rule and he will stop at nothing until he attains what he believes is rightfully his. He’s had many stumbling blocks thus far in his quest for France, but despite of his disappointments, he simply will not be deterred. He has finally devised a new plan of attack and one which will leave the French army with no choice but to surrender: a battle.
Berenger Fripper is a Vintener of a motley crew of sixteen who comprise the Vintaine of Sir John de Sully. He had stormed the beaches of Normandy intent on glory and to bring victory to their king, but the French are nowhere to be seen. Still, Berenger is determined to lead his men to war and to the Battle of Crécy, which will change the lives of his men forever and be a catalyst for the Hundred Years’ War…
Readers who enjoy vivid, well-researched and atmospheric historical novels written with wit, intelligence and flair will be completely gripped by Fields of Glory. Michael Jecks is a wonderful storyteller who has penned a pacy, authentic and brilliantly told historical yarn that will keep readers entertained and engrossed until the last page.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
1346, France, and an ambitious king is desperate for more power and glory. King Edward III wants to bring France under his own rule and he will stop at nothing until he attains what he believes is rightfully his. He’s had many stumbling blocks thus far in his quest for France, but despite of his disappointments, he simply will not be deterred. He has finally devised a new plan of attack and one which will leave the French army with no choice but to surrender: a battle.
Berenger Fripper is a Vintener of a motley crew of sixteen who comprise the Vintaine of Sir John de Sully. He had stormed the beaches of Normandy intent on glory and to bring victory to their king, but the French are nowhere to be seen. Still, Berenger is determined to lead his men to war and to the Battle of Crécy, which will change the lives of his men forever and be a catalyst for the Hundred Years’ War…
Readers who enjoy vivid, well-researched and atmospheric historical novels written with wit, intelligence and flair will be completely gripped by Fields of Glory. Michael Jecks is a wonderful storyteller who has penned a pacy, authentic and brilliantly told historical yarn that will keep readers entertained and engrossed until the last page.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 26, 2021
Disappointingly vague. Historical patronising
Historical novels tend to let the reader experience an important event, person or period of time by giving them a window through which they can observe the trials and tribulations of a fictional hero, villain or typical character of that period. We eat their food, fight their enemies and morn their fallen comrades. We feel the pain when disease and hunger plague them, we experience the terror, revulsion and joy of battle. We see the reality of the times! All neatly packaged in a gripping adventure that as we turn the last page leaves us feeling as if we have achieved or at the worst, lost something, as if we have return home from our own adventure.
But alas, not in this story. I am home but I still wander looking for our hero. The Vintener, Frip or Berenger, The Maid, Ed or the Religious devil with the Cannons? I plod along beside the Somme waiting for dysentery to strike. I am at a lose to what happened to those giant shields the crossbowmen use. I stand staring down the hill waiting for the horses to become mired in the mud, for the Knights and men at arms to slip and slide as they doggedly try to reach us and for the archers to surge down the hill in desperation as the last of the arrows fall from the sky.
Historical novels tend to let the reader experience an important event, person or period of time by giving them a window through which they can observe the trials and tribulations of a fictional hero, villain or typical character of that period. We eat their food, fight their enemies and morn their fallen comrades. We feel the pain when disease and hunger plague them, we experience the terror, revulsion and joy of battle. We see the reality of the times! All neatly packaged in a gripping adventure that as we turn the last page leaves us feeling as if we have achieved or at the worst, lost something, as if we have return home from our own adventure.
But alas, not in this story. I am home but I still wander looking for our hero. The Vintener, Frip or Berenger, The Maid, Ed or the Religious devil with the Cannons? I plod along beside the Somme waiting for dysentery to strike. I am at a lose to what happened to those giant shields the crossbowmen use. I stand staring down the hill waiting for the horses to become mired in the mud, for the Knights and men at arms to slip and slide as they doggedly try to reach us and for the archers to surge down the hill in desperation as the last of the arrows fall from the sky.
February 21, 2022
Fields of Glory brings the both the brutality and humanity of war to life. This story was gripping from the start, following a group of archers sent by King Edward to the Battle of Crecy, as well as delving into the lives of the French citizens who they invade.
I loved that the divide between who's ally and enemy is not always clear, and often not who you'd think.
The portrayal of women through the eyes of the men is often uncomfortable to read, though of the time. However, I loved Beatrice, who holds her own. She is a formidable ally and a foe to fear.
This is an enjoyable, though often grisly and harrowing journey through into the hearts & minds of fighters, peasants, and leaders. The soldiers and knights are tough, yet not without compassion. The scars they carry are not always from battles fought, and not all are so hungry to go home. The reality of the Hundred Years War is brought to life, with the sound and smell of gonne smoke, blood and horses seeping from the page.
I loved that the divide between who's ally and enemy is not always clear, and often not who you'd think.
The portrayal of women through the eyes of the men is often uncomfortable to read, though of the time. However, I loved Beatrice, who holds her own. She is a formidable ally and a foe to fear.
This is an enjoyable, though often grisly and harrowing journey through into the hearts & minds of fighters, peasants, and leaders. The soldiers and knights are tough, yet not without compassion. The scars they carry are not always from battles fought, and not all are so hungry to go home. The reality of the Hundred Years War is brought to life, with the sound and smell of gonne smoke, blood and horses seeping from the page.
April 25, 2025
I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
This is the first in a new series by this author. I've read some other books by this author before, and I didn't think this was like any of the others I've read, but it was an interesting and complex historical novel that I could sink my bookish teeth into.
If you're looking for something action-packed to read, this could be it. I found the battle scenes intense and nail-biting, if a little gory at times. There was some banter between the characters at times, which I appreciated. I wonder if this is the type of book that most would prefer to read a little at a time, rather than in one sitting. If you are a historical reader though, particularly of the medieval period, this is a wholesome read.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This is the first in a new series by this author. I've read some other books by this author before, and I didn't think this was like any of the others I've read, but it was an interesting and complex historical novel that I could sink my bookish teeth into.
If you're looking for something action-packed to read, this could be it. I found the battle scenes intense and nail-biting, if a little gory at times. There was some banter between the characters at times, which I appreciated. I wonder if this is the type of book that most would prefer to read a little at a time, rather than in one sitting. If you are a historical reader though, particularly of the medieval period, this is a wholesome read.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
April 27, 2025
4.5 STARS!
This is a gritty, atmospheric look at the soldiers who fought during the Hundred Years’ War—and it’s absolutely gripping. Through the story of Berenger Fripper and his vintaine, Jecks captures the physical and emotional toll of war in a way that feels both authentic and immersive.
From the brutal siege of Caen to the famous Battle of Crécy, the novel brings medieval warfare to life in rich, often harrowing detail. The characters feel real and grounded, each shaped by complex, very human motives. I appreciated the inclusion of the master gunner and the early evolution of warfare, which added another fascinating layer to the story. Dark, intense, and deeply compelling—this is historical fiction at its finest.
Thank you Boldwood Books, NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions are my own.
This is a gritty, atmospheric look at the soldiers who fought during the Hundred Years’ War—and it’s absolutely gripping. Through the story of Berenger Fripper and his vintaine, Jecks captures the physical and emotional toll of war in a way that feels both authentic and immersive.
From the brutal siege of Caen to the famous Battle of Crécy, the novel brings medieval warfare to life in rich, often harrowing detail. The characters feel real and grounded, each shaped by complex, very human motives. I appreciated the inclusion of the master gunner and the early evolution of warfare, which added another fascinating layer to the story. Dark, intense, and deeply compelling—this is historical fiction at its finest.
Thank you Boldwood Books, NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions are my own.
September 2, 2017
Don't know how to rate this, it's a well written book, must be because I finished it, but I actually started it by mistake, assuming that Jecks had only written Medieval murder type stories. This is about the English fighting in France and while it appears well researched, and is made interesting by the characterisation, the description of people being killed in various ways during battles got a bit too much for me. So it's 4 stars for writing & research, but 3 for my personal enjoyment, I've realised I've another in this series, it's going to the bottom of my to read pile, but not actually being sent to charity shop!
January 11, 2018
I found this one to be an interesting read. I liked the use of era-appropriate terms and spellings for things like the cannon, which is just starting to be adopted by the English despite the fact many ordinary soldiers consider it to be some sort of witchcraft. The main ensemble each have a particular characteristic that helps you remember who is who and I liked the fact that we get to know the individual psychology of the characters - they all have their own attitudes to the reality of war.
I didn't know it was part of a series until it said so here on GR, so now I can look for the next one.
I didn't know it was part of a series until it said so here on GR, so now I can look for the next one.
April 13, 2025
Wow! This was an in depth look at what war was like in Medieval Europe. I enjoyed reading this version of what led up to and the Battle of Crécy. I have a vested interest with King Edward and William de Bohun being grandfathers. For some reason the human destruction didn't bother me, but if you are an animal lover, beware, there are some scenes that will have you cringing. Overall it is a fantastic Medieval story based in history with brilliant characters and well worth the read!
This is my honest opinion after reading an ARC from Netgalley.
This is my honest opinion after reading an ARC from Netgalley.
January 14, 2022
Good
When I previewed this book, it compared it to Bernard Cornwell. That wasn't quit right, it was good, but nowhere as good as Bernard Cornwell. I did like the description of the main characters and the description of the battles. I found it discerning that there were parts of the story where it was writing about something and then in the next sentence something else completely different.
When I previewed this book, it compared it to Bernard Cornwell. That wasn't quit right, it was good, but nowhere as good as Bernard Cornwell. I did like the description of the main characters and the description of the battles. I found it discerning that there were parts of the story where it was writing about something and then in the next sentence something else completely different.
February 6, 2022
Disjointed
An interesting take on a famous (infamous?) English chevauchee into France and its historic battle at Crecy but spoiled by a writing style that flits between characters and situations like a butterfly. A good portrayal of a fighting team and its mixed set of characters, although sometimes descending into a degree of blood and gore that seems a touch gratuitous. I looked forward to this tale but it fell short of the mark.
An interesting take on a famous (infamous?) English chevauchee into France and its historic battle at Crecy but spoiled by a writing style that flits between characters and situations like a butterfly. A good portrayal of a fighting team and its mixed set of characters, although sometimes descending into a degree of blood and gore that seems a touch gratuitous. I looked forward to this tale but it fell short of the mark.
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