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Alvar the Kingmaker
10 th -Century England is rocked by scandal when the young king is caught in bed with his wife - and her mother.
Nobleman Alvar knows that securing the throne for the young and worthy prince Edgar will brand him an oath-breaker. As a fighting man, he is indispensable to the new sovereign, but his success and power gain him deadly, murderous Abbot Dunstan, banished, recalled, and in no mood to forgive; Bishop Oswald, the ambitious foreigner who will let nothing stand in his way. They must not discover Alvar's secret love for the wife of his deputy, whilst Alvar must keep her safe, and serve and protect the queen, who is in love with him and who harbours a dark secret of her own...
Civil war erupts, and Alvar once again finds himself the only man capable of setting a new king upon the throne of England, an act which comes at great personal cost. His career began with a dishonourable deed to help a good king; now he must be loyal to a new king, Æthelred, whom he knows will be weak, and whose supporters have been accused of regicide. Can he bring about peace, reconcile with his enemies, and find personal happiness, whilst all the time doing his duty to his loved ones?
Nobleman Alvar knows that securing the throne for the young and worthy prince Edgar will brand him an oath-breaker. As a fighting man, he is indispensable to the new sovereign, but his success and power gain him deadly, murderous Abbot Dunstan, banished, recalled, and in no mood to forgive; Bishop Oswald, the ambitious foreigner who will let nothing stand in his way. They must not discover Alvar's secret love for the wife of his deputy, whilst Alvar must keep her safe, and serve and protect the queen, who is in love with him and who harbours a dark secret of her own...
Civil war erupts, and Alvar once again finds himself the only man capable of setting a new king upon the throne of England, an act which comes at great personal cost. His career began with a dishonourable deed to help a good king; now he must be loyal to a new king, Æthelred, whom he knows will be weak, and whose supporters have been accused of regicide. Can he bring about peace, reconcile with his enemies, and find personal happiness, whilst all the time doing his duty to his loved ones?
424 pages, Paperback
Published February 12, 2020
82 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 7, 2016
I’ve been looking forward to reading this book ever since I finished To Be a Queen. While the books are standalone tales I very much recommend reading them both. Annie has a way of writing her female characters which makes these novels stand out for me.
For the main this book follows Alvar as he tries to guide the king as best he can with numerous things getting in his way… mainly the church.
It’s another beautiful piece of work from the author who manages to make the pages cover alive with her descriptions of the surroundings and her way of describing death manages to humble the reader.
One of the things I liked the most about this book is once again Annie has managed to write a love story amongst all this war/hatred and backstabbing. It takes a while for Alvar to get to grips with the political game he’s forced into.
As mentioned I loved the female characters in this book, two stood out Kata & Alfreda.(although there were more). I won’t spoil the story but the author manages to show real strength within these two for different reasons and for me these two made the book what it is.
As far as historical accuracy goes Annie Whitehead takes a great approach, sticks to the facts when possible and uses her imagination where needed. The author handily gives the characters nicknames since most of the real names would be unpronounceable to most of us. I felt this gave the book a better flow as I would have been stuck every time a name popped up. All of these name changes along with any other liberties the author has taken are explained at the end of the book..this shows just how good of an author Annie is, The perfect mix of fact and fiction to showcase her talent.
This book is full to the brim of love & deceit.. it keeps you hooked wondering what else can happen.. Then when events play out your left with a lump in your throat. Real emotion from words set on paper is a wonderful thing.
I only wish we knew more about what happened to Alvar..
For the main this book follows Alvar as he tries to guide the king as best he can with numerous things getting in his way… mainly the church.
It’s another beautiful piece of work from the author who manages to make the pages cover alive with her descriptions of the surroundings and her way of describing death manages to humble the reader.
One of the things I liked the most about this book is once again Annie has managed to write a love story amongst all this war/hatred and backstabbing. It takes a while for Alvar to get to grips with the political game he’s forced into.
As mentioned I loved the female characters in this book, two stood out Kata & Alfreda.(although there were more). I won’t spoil the story but the author manages to show real strength within these two for different reasons and for me these two made the book what it is.
As far as historical accuracy goes Annie Whitehead takes a great approach, sticks to the facts when possible and uses her imagination where needed. The author handily gives the characters nicknames since most of the real names would be unpronounceable to most of us. I felt this gave the book a better flow as I would have been stuck every time a name popped up. All of these name changes along with any other liberties the author has taken are explained at the end of the book..this shows just how good of an author Annie is, The perfect mix of fact and fiction to showcase her talent.
This book is full to the brim of love & deceit.. it keeps you hooked wondering what else can happen.. Then when events play out your left with a lump in your throat. Real emotion from words set on paper is a wonderful thing.
I only wish we knew more about what happened to Alvar..
July 1, 2018
Alvar the Kingmaker is a beautifully written novel that transcends the genre of historical fiction and brings us into a world of passion, love, war and politics with charismatic and accessible characters most today would recognize as contemporaries. Such is the depth and brilliance of Ms Whitehead’s research and subject knowledge, that her creativity and imagination weaves an intriguing and emotional story from a solid foundation of fact. The result is a fascinating novel, with a heart-wrenching love story, compelling political machinations and a story of brotherhood and war that tugs at the heartstrings. The narrative and scene-setting is so realistic that one is transported into a world that is so often hidden from us, and the result is an unforgettable perspective on the Dark Ages.
I thoroughly enjoyed my travels through Anglo Saxon England with Ms Whitehead as an expert guide, and I have to admit I devoured Alvar the Kingmaker in several sittings, such was the enchantment of the world she has created. (I also found myself crying in public, since I read some on a plane. The person sitting next to me asked for the name of the book, since they saw how moved I was by reading it!) I have already downloaded To Be a Queen, and frankly have already told my family not expect to see much of me in the coming days. Five Stars.
I thoroughly enjoyed my travels through Anglo Saxon England with Ms Whitehead as an expert guide, and I have to admit I devoured Alvar the Kingmaker in several sittings, such was the enchantment of the world she has created. (I also found myself crying in public, since I read some on a plane. The person sitting next to me asked for the name of the book, since they saw how moved I was by reading it!) I have already downloaded To Be a Queen, and frankly have already told my family not expect to see much of me in the coming days. Five Stars.
July 23, 2018
Iako je ova knjiga visoko ocenjena i dobila neke nagrade meni licno nesto nije 'legla' kako bi trebalo. Nekako sam propustila tu konekciju koja je navedena u opisu (kraljica i Alvar). Ali mi se dopalo kako je opisala Alvara, njegov zivot ( njegovu ljubav prema tudjoj zeni i odricanja koje podneo da bi se postigao cilj) i povezanost sa dogadjajima kao i sam dogadjaj( ne cesto spomenut u knjigama sa detaljima) . Autorka se drzala istorijskih dogadjaja. Ali opet preporucujem toplo knjigu.
June 20, 2020
This book was SO. GOOD.
It's taken me a very long time to read for health-related reasons, but once I could read again it was a delight. Whitehead's genius starts with the title already – same as with 'To Be a Queen', 'Alvar the Kingmaker' suggests that there's quite a story coming. It doesn't disappoint. And, yet again, Whitehead takes dusted history books, pulls out entries on some old git, then turns him into a full-bloodied person who makes me shout at my e-reader. This is not something I normally do, but the author has a true gift to create people rather than characters. (I cried a bit towards the end as well and I'm not ashamed to say that.)
Something that amazed me was that it took me about half the book to decide whether I actually liked Alvar and wanted him to succeed, or not quite. He's definitely not a one-dimensional good or bad character, yet towards the end I sometimes stopped breathing, because I HAD to find out what will happen between him and NO SPOILERS, and also between him and NO SPOILERS.
The only minor complaint I had was what I call the 'as you know' device, where two or more characters have conversations detailing what happened to them between chapters. This didn't ruin my enjoyment – it's just that this book is honestly brilliant, and those parts were 'only' very good. OK, I have one more minor complaint. The last chapter shouldn't have been there at all, because NO SPOILERS.
It's taken me a very long time to read for health-related reasons, but once I could read again it was a delight. Whitehead's genius starts with the title already – same as with 'To Be a Queen', 'Alvar the Kingmaker' suggests that there's quite a story coming. It doesn't disappoint. And, yet again, Whitehead takes dusted history books, pulls out entries on some old git, then turns him into a full-bloodied person who makes me shout at my e-reader. This is not something I normally do, but the author has a true gift to create people rather than characters. (I cried a bit towards the end as well and I'm not ashamed to say that.)
Something that amazed me was that it took me about half the book to decide whether I actually liked Alvar and wanted him to succeed, or not quite. He's definitely not a one-dimensional good or bad character, yet towards the end I sometimes stopped breathing, because I HAD to find out what will happen between him and NO SPOILERS, and also between him and NO SPOILERS.
The only minor complaint I had was what I call the 'as you know' device, where two or more characters have conversations detailing what happened to them between chapters. This didn't ruin my enjoyment – it's just that this book is honestly brilliant, and those parts were 'only' very good. OK, I have one more minor complaint. The last chapter shouldn't have been there at all, because NO SPOILERS.
September 8, 2020
I don't know a lot about this era of history but the author obviously does. She takes you right into the lives and feelings of the people involved and tells a tale that is easy to read, charming, interesting and makes you really care about the characters. She is a skilled writer who very obviously knows her history but helps the reader along in some significant ways. There is an addendum that explains characters who have been renamed, called by their nicknames or had their spellings simplified. Believe me, you need it. The Anglo-Saxons were not very imaginative at Christenings and without this careful renaming it would have been very hard to follow. The story certainly pulled me right in. I would recommend to anyone interested in history. A thoroughly enjoyable book.
November 6, 2019
My 2nd book by Annie Whitehead was a great read, as was the first, "To Be A Queen". I got a little bit confused, more than once by events that were occurring without any warning, or without a date as a clue.
I was familiar with Aethelread, son of Edgar from the history, but the writing style sometimes gave me pause. Some parts were very clear and others made me search in the preceding text for what I missed.
I am very happy I have come upon these books and I have "Cometh the Hour" on my kindle now. I am excited to read about Penda, plan to read the character lists and read the author's notes BEFORE I jump in.
I was familiar with Aethelread, son of Edgar from the history, but the writing style sometimes gave me pause. Some parts were very clear and others made me search in the preceding text for what I missed.
I am very happy I have come upon these books and I have "Cometh the Hour" on my kindle now. I am excited to read about Penda, plan to read the character lists and read the author's notes BEFORE I jump in.
April 1, 2020
Historical fiction – At Its Best
Broad brush sweeps – a tapestry of long-forgotten times. AW’s message is that only humanity counts. The central figure attracts love and hate in equal measures through his humanity and sanity. Alvar the Kingmaker is a vivid and insightful read. A panorama of ancient times in the slowly uniting kingdom of England. Anglo Saxon heroes and power greedy clerics vie for the control of the land and the king. Strong female characters live and love without asking if they’ll win or lose. Political manoeuvring, greed, envy, and tragedies are part and parcel of the web on AW’s narrative loom. Highly recommended
Broad brush sweeps – a tapestry of long-forgotten times. AW’s message is that only humanity counts. The central figure attracts love and hate in equal measures through his humanity and sanity. Alvar the Kingmaker is a vivid and insightful read. A panorama of ancient times in the slowly uniting kingdom of England. Anglo Saxon heroes and power greedy clerics vie for the control of the land and the king. Strong female characters live and love without asking if they’ll win or lose. Political manoeuvring, greed, envy, and tragedies are part and parcel of the web on AW’s narrative loom. Highly recommended
May 19, 2018
This second outing by this very fine author has been for me once again an amazing learning historical journey.
Just like last time the historical details and names concerning this story, which you can find at the end of the book, have been thoroughly researched and explained by the author, and these available known historical details are superbly implemented within this great tale about Alvar.
At the beginning of the book you'll notice a wonderful glossary, which is followed by a great list of characters, real and fictional, and ends with a really fine introduction concerning this book.
Story-telling is of a wonderful quality, for the author has the ability to bring all her characters vividly to life within this beautiful historical story, with the main part being reserved of course for Alvar the Kingmaker, the Earl of Mercia, and not to forget his great love Kata, but last but not least one of my other favourite character is, and that also thanks to Conn Iggulden's book, Dunstan the Abbot of Glastonbury and later Archbishop of Canterbury.
The book is divided into three parts, it starts in AD 956 and it will end in AD 983, and it tells us the remarkable life story about the Earl of Mercia, Alvar, and his incredible achievements as warrior, politician, and Kingmaker.
Like I said before the book is about Alvar, the Earl of Mercia, a man with a clear outspoken mind but also a man of glorious deeds on the battlefield, a man who has now entered the world of intrigue and politics with Kings and clerics, and in this intriguing world Alvar has to find a way to stay clear of his enemies, and at the same time keep his real friends and allies close at heart if he wants to survive this everchanging world of Kings.
What will follow is a fascinating gripping story, in which Alvar will have to tread carefully and with courage in his quest to follow the rightful King, and at the same time try to survive the threats on his life, and finally by choosing and making the right decisions, for King and Country, when he has to make them in the end.
Very much recommended, for this is a most wonderful historical journey, and that's why I call this: "A True Kinglike Story"!
Just like last time the historical details and names concerning this story, which you can find at the end of the book, have been thoroughly researched and explained by the author, and these available known historical details are superbly implemented within this great tale about Alvar.
At the beginning of the book you'll notice a wonderful glossary, which is followed by a great list of characters, real and fictional, and ends with a really fine introduction concerning this book.
Story-telling is of a wonderful quality, for the author has the ability to bring all her characters vividly to life within this beautiful historical story, with the main part being reserved of course for Alvar the Kingmaker, the Earl of Mercia, and not to forget his great love Kata, but last but not least one of my other favourite character is, and that also thanks to Conn Iggulden's book, Dunstan the Abbot of Glastonbury and later Archbishop of Canterbury.
The book is divided into three parts, it starts in AD 956 and it will end in AD 983, and it tells us the remarkable life story about the Earl of Mercia, Alvar, and his incredible achievements as warrior, politician, and Kingmaker.
Like I said before the book is about Alvar, the Earl of Mercia, a man with a clear outspoken mind but also a man of glorious deeds on the battlefield, a man who has now entered the world of intrigue and politics with Kings and clerics, and in this intriguing world Alvar has to find a way to stay clear of his enemies, and at the same time keep his real friends and allies close at heart if he wants to survive this everchanging world of Kings.
What will follow is a fascinating gripping story, in which Alvar will have to tread carefully and with courage in his quest to follow the rightful King, and at the same time try to survive the threats on his life, and finally by choosing and making the right decisions, for King and Country, when he has to make them in the end.
Very much recommended, for this is a most wonderful historical journey, and that's why I call this: "A True Kinglike Story"!
January 3, 2019
I’ve read several of Phillipa Gregory’s novels about the lives and deaths of kings,queens,loves,hates,betrayals,treachery,and of course, politics and pyth greed.However,what is most rewarding and quite satisfying for me,as an avid bookworm (historical fiction being at the top of my list) is not limited to the depth of knowledge and research about this time period 10th century),but rather the ingenious crafting of Whitehead’s weaving of factual events with her own ‘theory.’ I find her insights quite plausible. Additionally,her characters,dialogue,and accuracy of period ‘norms’ form a beautiful tapestry! I especially like the presence of strong women and their effect upon their loves/counterparts!Another great read. It’s one of those books that remains long after you close that final page!
February 6, 2017
Brilliant and balanced
Unfortunately I was unable to review To be a Queen which I read during a serious illness. Her books erudite, well researched and anyone with a great passion for early British history will be losing a great contribution. Thank you Me Whitehead, for taking me away to a time that enthralled me! Please history fans read her work!
Unfortunately I was unable to review To be a Queen which I read during a serious illness. Her books erudite, well researched and anyone with a great passion for early British history will be losing a great contribution. Thank you Me Whitehead, for taking me away to a time that enthralled me! Please history fans read her work!
January 1, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyable - and highly informative: Ms Whitehead knows her stuff! A must-read for anyone interested in the early Anglo-Saxon period
Helen Hollick
A Discovered Diamond
Discovering Diamonds Review Blog
Helen Hollick
A Discovered Diamond
Discovering Diamonds Review Blog
October 8, 2025
10th-century England was a kingdom teetering between religion and depravity, strength and disaster. But Ms Whitehead penmanship brought us a historical tale that captivates readers from the first pages and never lets go.
Set in a vividly rendered Anglo-Saxon era, this historical tale begins with a terrible scandal. It's the spark that ignites a thrilling story of betrayal, ambition, and hazardous loyalty. At its core is Alvar, a warrior driven by duty but caught between devotion and justice, love and honor. Alongside him are interesting characters: a queen plagued by secrets, Alfreda enduring a harsh marriage, and the imposing Abbot Dunstan, whose confrontation with the king reveals the delicate balance between Church and Crown. The novel shines in its detailed depiction of 10th-century England, from drunken coronation feasts to the little, illuminating elements of daily life. Its language portrays both the grandeur and grit of a frontier realm, while also delving into eternal issues of power, conscience, and sacrifice. Abbot Dunstan stood out for me, proud, pious, and self-righteous, yet both repellent and pitiable. His shaken certainty amid a corrupt court and his fierce clashes with the young king over scandal, land, and burial rights reveal the shifting power between Church and Crown, where politics, faith, and personal vendetta collide.
More than a tale of kings and battles, this is a profoundly human exploration of loyalty, sin, and survival. Bold, dramatic, and beautifully detailed, it's a must-read for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Carol McGrath, a novel that leaves a lasting impression.
Set in a vividly rendered Anglo-Saxon era, this historical tale begins with a terrible scandal. It's the spark that ignites a thrilling story of betrayal, ambition, and hazardous loyalty. At its core is Alvar, a warrior driven by duty but caught between devotion and justice, love and honor. Alongside him are interesting characters: a queen plagued by secrets, Alfreda enduring a harsh marriage, and the imposing Abbot Dunstan, whose confrontation with the king reveals the delicate balance between Church and Crown. The novel shines in its detailed depiction of 10th-century England, from drunken coronation feasts to the little, illuminating elements of daily life. Its language portrays both the grandeur and grit of a frontier realm, while also delving into eternal issues of power, conscience, and sacrifice. Abbot Dunstan stood out for me, proud, pious, and self-righteous, yet both repellent and pitiable. His shaken certainty amid a corrupt court and his fierce clashes with the young king over scandal, land, and burial rights reveal the shifting power between Church and Crown, where politics, faith, and personal vendetta collide.
More than a tale of kings and battles, this is a profoundly human exploration of loyalty, sin, and survival. Bold, dramatic, and beautifully detailed, it's a must-read for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Carol McGrath, a novel that leaves a lasting impression.
August 16, 2020
Alvar--Mercian lord, supporter of King Edgar, flirter extraordinaire when it comes to women. A man who often has a smile or smirk on his face and a ready witticism. It's truly hard NOT to love Alvar the Kingmaker. Whitehead weaves a tale through the mists of British history that brings ancient Saxons back to life and even embraces the challenges of their names, making sense of them for the reader.
Her supporting cast is just as fascinating. Helmstan, loyal friend to Alvar who is always ready to support him and would lay his life down for his lord. Alfreda, Queen of the English and a woman who begins as a battered wife, yet flowers and becomes a powerful force in politics of the day. Kata, the Danish wife of Helmstan who must sort out her convoluted feelings for Alvar. Dunstan, the Archbishop who longs for England's Church to be unified through the Benedictine order--even at the cost of the people.
It is difficult in the murky history of Saxon England to sift through fact from fiction, yet Whitehead has doggedly pursued this period and done just that. With gentleness and a heart for deep character development, Alvar the Kingmaker is a meaty read that explores human nature and how one man learns to earn the respect and heart of a nation. British history at its finest.
Her supporting cast is just as fascinating. Helmstan, loyal friend to Alvar who is always ready to support him and would lay his life down for his lord. Alfreda, Queen of the English and a woman who begins as a battered wife, yet flowers and becomes a powerful force in politics of the day. Kata, the Danish wife of Helmstan who must sort out her convoluted feelings for Alvar. Dunstan, the Archbishop who longs for England's Church to be unified through the Benedictine order--even at the cost of the people.
It is difficult in the murky history of Saxon England to sift through fact from fiction, yet Whitehead has doggedly pursued this period and done just that. With gentleness and a heart for deep character development, Alvar the Kingmaker is a meaty read that explores human nature and how one man learns to earn the respect and heart of a nation. British history at its finest.
March 13, 2021
I wasn't overwhelmed by this book unfortunately, not underwhelmed, but maybe just whelmed. I've been reading a lot of books set in the Anglo Saxon era lately and I'm maybe just oversaturated, but I found the storytelling very flat. While the history aspect was brilliantly researched, I didn't find any of the characters very engaging. Even the hero and *heroine* didn't really seem to have any feelings or emotions, and I just didn't feel that they had very much depth. The churchmen were far better written beside being antagonistic.
Another pet peeve is the *modernisation* of names, although this was nowhere near as egregious as it was in another author I have read recently - I dislike the dumbing down, and feel that it doesn't speak much to the intelligence of the reader.
As I said though, it was very well researched, and stuck closely to what is known about the historical facts, and while being a little dry, I nevertheless did enjoy it and will probably read more by this author.
(Also, nice to see Aelfthryth portrayed as other than a complete soul-sucking murderous bitch for once!)
Another pet peeve is the *modernisation* of names, although this was nowhere near as egregious as it was in another author I have read recently - I dislike the dumbing down, and feel that it doesn't speak much to the intelligence of the reader.
As I said though, it was very well researched, and stuck closely to what is known about the historical facts, and while being a little dry, I nevertheless did enjoy it and will probably read more by this author.
(Also, nice to see Aelfthryth portrayed as other than a complete soul-sucking murderous bitch for once!)
August 23, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if Game of Thrones took a quiet stroll through 10th-century England, Annie Whitehead has the answer, and honestly, I’m obsessed.
Alvar the Kingmaker is the perfect mix of scandal, loyalty, betrayal, and love, all wrapped in beautifully researched history. Annie doesn’t just write characters; she summons them. Alvar, the nobleman constantly juggling loyalty, love, and war, is one of the most complex, brilliantly written protagonists I’ve read in a while. And let’s just say… when royalty gets tangled up in affairs and secrets, things get spicy.
The writing is sharp, the pacing is smooth, and the emotional depth is incredible. Annie makes history feel alive, dangerous, and personal, like you’re right there watching the drama unfold while secretly sipping mead in the corner.
Highly recommend this to anyone who loves well-written historical fiction, strong character arcs, and a plot that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. Annie, you’ve officially earned yourself a new fan, and I’m not letting go either!
Alvar the Kingmaker is the perfect mix of scandal, loyalty, betrayal, and love, all wrapped in beautifully researched history. Annie doesn’t just write characters; she summons them. Alvar, the nobleman constantly juggling loyalty, love, and war, is one of the most complex, brilliantly written protagonists I’ve read in a while. And let’s just say… when royalty gets tangled up in affairs and secrets, things get spicy.
The writing is sharp, the pacing is smooth, and the emotional depth is incredible. Annie makes history feel alive, dangerous, and personal, like you’re right there watching the drama unfold while secretly sipping mead in the corner.
Highly recommend this to anyone who loves well-written historical fiction, strong character arcs, and a plot that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. Annie, you’ve officially earned yourself a new fan, and I’m not letting go either!
March 20, 2020
Immersing the reader in its 10th C Anglo-Saxon world, Alvar the Kingmaker tells the story of Ælfhere and his influence on the turbulent, divisive politics of the late 900's in England. Abandoning his family's loyalty to King Eadwig in favour of his brother Edgar, Alvar must battle both internal factions, enemies outside England's borders, and the power of the church to support first Edgar, and then his second wife Ælfthryth to eventually bring their son to the throne. The political story is interwoven with a personal story, another battle between love and honour. The details of 10th C life are shown by a writer who is a historian of the times, and this scholarship shines through.
September 17, 2017
My first of Annie whitehead's. It will not be the last. The detail into t h e time is so informative I feel as if stood watch for my beloved or savoring the smell of bread baking. Wonderful I am housebound for a few weeks 's Whitehead helped me pass the time with pleasure
March 24, 2024
It's Game of Thrones 10th century style. Alvar is made a lord of all Mercia by the king he helped put on the throne. But there remain challenges ahead. Wonderful telling of this piece of English history.
May 13, 2019
Great Read
Just finished it, I purchased the kindle version ages ago and just got the chance to read it, wonderful read, once started couldnt put it down, highly recommend it
Just finished it, I purchased the kindle version ages ago and just got the chance to read it, wonderful read, once started couldnt put it down, highly recommend it
October 19, 2020
I purchased this book several months ago, but held off readinguntil I needed a book I knew I would enjoy. How right I was.
Having already read Annie Whitehead's other novels, I knew the quality of writing I would be getting, but I think in terms of character, Alvar might be my favorite yet.
The author's ability to shed light on a period of history not often shown, much less shown to be as interesting as it was, is as exceptional as her ability to manage an enormous cast of highly individual characters.
And the slow burn romance in this one can't be beat. I'll just leave that there.
Having already read Annie Whitehead's other novels, I knew the quality of writing I would be getting, but I think in terms of character, Alvar might be my favorite yet.
The author's ability to shed light on a period of history not often shown, much less shown to be as interesting as it was, is as exceptional as her ability to manage an enormous cast of highly individual characters.
And the slow burn romance in this one can't be beat. I'll just leave that there.
June 16, 2018
An enjoyable book bringing to life a part of Anglo-Saxon history that is often overlooked, the mid-900s. The author, Whitehead, does a good job of creating believable characters. She brings to life motivations behind the "anti Monastic movement". She also explores how so much of the power structure was really about personal loyalties.
I have quibbles. There seems to be an awful lot of silk being worn at a time when academic papers talk about how rare silk was. And in one scene the main character pay with sceattas. A term not used until the 19th century to describe coins that went out of style in the 600s.
Those aside Whitehead has done a good job. If you are interested in this time period I can recommend this book.
I have quibbles. There seems to be an awful lot of silk being worn at a time when academic papers talk about how rare silk was. And in one scene the main character pay with sceattas. A term not used until the 19th century to describe coins that went out of style in the 600s.
Those aside Whitehead has done a good job. If you are interested in this time period I can recommend this book.
June 14, 2016
I loved this book and fell in love with the main character in the process of reading it. Alvar was a warrior who grew into the role of statesman. He was a leading earl and advisor to the king in the time of King Edgar and was a supporter of King Ethelred in the early years of his reign.
I have always had an intense interest in English history particularly from the Anglo-Saxon era up to the end of the Wars of the Roses. Annie has made the history of Anglo-Saxon England come to life for me - first with To Be a Queen and now, even more vividly, with the tale of Alvar.
I made the last few pages last for a day or so because I really did not want this story to end.
I have always had an intense interest in English history particularly from the Anglo-Saxon era up to the end of the Wars of the Roses. Annie has made the history of Anglo-Saxon England come to life for me - first with To Be a Queen and now, even more vividly, with the tale of Alvar.
I made the last few pages last for a day or so because I really did not want this story to end.
February 27, 2016
Another fabulous read from Annie Whitehead!
This author has the knack of whisking the reader away to more than a thousand years ago and making it seem so real. The historical detail in this book is second to none and makes it so easy to picture in one's mind.
The story is intriguing, exciting and above all based on truth. And as with the author's first book, To Be A Queen, I now feel as if I know far more about this period in our history.
Fantastic - you won't be disappointed.
And definitely one I will read again!!
This author has the knack of whisking the reader away to more than a thousand years ago and making it seem so real. The historical detail in this book is second to none and makes it so easy to picture in one's mind.
The story is intriguing, exciting and above all based on truth. And as with the author's first book, To Be A Queen, I now feel as if I know far more about this period in our history.
Fantastic - you won't be disappointed.
And definitely one I will read again!!
September 26, 2016
We are proud to announce that ALVAR THE KINGMAKER BY ANNIE WHITEHEAD is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
March 3, 2017
Alvar The Kingmaker has been awarded with a Chill with a Book Readers' Award
April 21, 2017
Riveting story
I admit I was slow to get involved with this book, but it was worth it to keep reading! I did not know the life of this man, but have grown to admire him as I kept reading. It is a rare man who lives a life of loyalty and chooses to do 'what is right', not expedient.
The love story was well told and rewarding . I grew to admire her also. A woman who can make peace with her surroundings and herself is almost as rare as the loyal man. This books story will stay with me, and I am glad to have read it.
If you enjoy historical fiction, especially early English, than this is the book for you. If you enjoy reading about characters who grow and change this is the book for you also. As a historical novel and a character study this book is satisfying and rewarding.
I admit I was slow to get involved with this book, but it was worth it to keep reading! I did not know the life of this man, but have grown to admire him as I kept reading. It is a rare man who lives a life of loyalty and chooses to do 'what is right', not expedient.
The love story was well told and rewarding . I grew to admire her also. A woman who can make peace with her surroundings and herself is almost as rare as the loyal man. This books story will stay with me, and I am glad to have read it.
If you enjoy historical fiction, especially early English, than this is the book for you. If you enjoy reading about characters who grow and change this is the book for you also. As a historical novel and a character study this book is satisfying and rewarding.
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