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Sons Of The Wolf #2
The Wolf Banner
WAR AND BLOODFEUD
1056...England lurches towards war as the rebellious Lord Alfgar plots against the indolent King Edward. Sussex thegn, Wulfhere, must defy both his lord, Harold Godwinson, and his bitter enemy, Helghi, to protect his beloved daughter.
As the shadow of war stretches across the land, a more personal battle rages at home, and when it follows him into battle, he knows he must keep his wits about him more than ever, and COURAGE AND FEAR MUST BECOME HIS ARMOUR…
1056...England lurches towards war as the rebellious Lord Alfgar plots against the indolent King Edward. Sussex thegn, Wulfhere, must defy both his lord, Harold Godwinson, and his bitter enemy, Helghi, to protect his beloved daughter.
As the shadow of war stretches across the land, a more personal battle rages at home, and when it follows him into battle, he knows he must keep his wits about him more than ever, and COURAGE AND FEAR MUST BECOME HIS ARMOUR…
556 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2016
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August 20, 2016"1056...England lurches towards war as the rebellious Lord Alfgar plots against the indolent, King Edward. Sussex thegn, Wulfhere of Horstede, must defy both his lord, Harold Godwinson, the Earl of Wessex, and his bitter enemy, Helghi of Gorde, to protect his beloved daughter. "
I was offered an ARC of this fine book by the author and have been reading it avidly. It was complex, involved and needed careful reading - and so very enjoyable. Paula Lofting is a fine historian and the events are true to what we know of them. With little to go on from either version of the Anglo Saxon Chronicle or Annales Cambriae , the author needed to tell the events of 1058 and Alfgar and did so in fine fashion.
My own favorite family, which was Harold Godwinson's provided my most enjoyable parts of the novel. Wulfhere's family is not going to win any awards for cohesiveness, nor is Alfgar's except for his mother, Godgifu ( Lady Godiva).
The book is put together in an unique way with alternating vignettes, consisting of 2-3 chapters, woven together to depict one time period. This "Crisis of 1058" started with Alfgar being expelled as Earl of Mercia, and King Edward's court and the Godwinsons' efforts to keep him away from Mercia and East Anglia. The vignettes or threads of stories involve the main characters just discussed: Wulfhere,Burghred, Alfgar and Harold ( and the King)
Alfgar married his daughter "Aldith" to Gruffudd, King of Wales and became estranged from his son Burghred. Both father and son would be dead in a few short years although not in one of the hair raising battle scenes which are vividly described. Aldith, we know marries Harold who ascends to Edward's throne, some of that for another outing we may hope?
Recommended to all who like this period of history and this group of characters. One of my very favorite era's and very well executed
I was offered an ARC of this fine book by the author and have been reading it avidly. It was complex, involved and needed careful reading - and so very enjoyable. Paula Lofting is a fine historian and the events are true to what we know of them. With little to go on from either version of the Anglo Saxon Chronicle or Annales Cambriae , the author needed to tell the events of 1058 and Alfgar and did so in fine fashion.
My own favorite family, which was Harold Godwinson's provided my most enjoyable parts of the novel. Wulfhere's family is not going to win any awards for cohesiveness, nor is Alfgar's except for his mother, Godgifu ( Lady Godiva).
The book is put together in an unique way with alternating vignettes, consisting of 2-3 chapters, woven together to depict one time period. This "Crisis of 1058" started with Alfgar being expelled as Earl of Mercia, and King Edward's court and the Godwinsons' efforts to keep him away from Mercia and East Anglia. The vignettes or threads of stories involve the main characters just discussed: Wulfhere,Burghred, Alfgar and Harold ( and the King)
Alfgar married his daughter "Aldith" to Gruffudd, King of Wales and became estranged from his son Burghred. Both father and son would be dead in a few short years although not in one of the hair raising battle scenes which are vividly described. Aldith, we know marries Harold who ascends to Edward's throne, some of that for another outing we may hope?
Recommended to all who like this period of history and this group of characters. One of my very favorite era's and very well executed
August 2, 2016
In THE WOLF BANNER author Paula Lofting brings us a story of turmoil: we see families carrying on a decades-long feud; we see marriages stretched to the breaking point, children fighting their parents, earls in exile fighting to come back, Viking invasions, and senseless battles. Welcome to the eleventh century, where loyalties are uncertain and nothing can be relied upon except the steel in one’s heart and the strength of one’s arms. This is a sequel to Paula’s debut novel SONS OF THE WOLF, and continues the story of Harold Godwineson’s thegn Wulfhere of Horstede, a strong warrior who hates battle and loves his family, though he seems to have trouble controlling them. But this novel contains much more. We are placed in the year 1058, when Earl Aelfgar of Mercia has once again rebelled against King Edward and has allied with his Welsh neighbor Gruffydd ap Llewelyn in an attempt to force himself back into power. In the first book we already saw how devastating Aelfgar’s partnership could be, when in 1055 he and the Welsh burnt Hereford to the ground. This time, they have enlisted the help of the Vikings under Magnus Haraldsson, and the ensuing battles occupy much of the action.
I was surprised to see the introduction of Burghred, eldest son of Aelfgar who I never even knew existed. Burghred’s factual history is relatively undocumented, which gave Paula the opportunity to bring him to life, and this turbulent eldest son goes on to wreak havoc with his father’s invasion. It seems that Burghred felt that he deserved Mercia for himself if he could stop Aelfgar’s advance. Is it treachery to turn against one’s father if that father is a traitor? Once again, loyalties are tested and usually found wanting.
Any reader who enjoys battle scenes will be more than satisfied with the details provided by a reenactor who knows her weapons and tactics. Our Wulfhere, after delivering a rousing speech, goes on to prove, once again, that he is the best. But what does he gain for his courage and prowess? Apparently, nothing. For in this world, there is very little fairness meted out by the Lords, and there is no reason to expect that evil deeds will ever be punished, except by the sword.
I was happy to receive an ARC from the author for my honest review.
I was surprised to see the introduction of Burghred, eldest son of Aelfgar who I never even knew existed. Burghred’s factual history is relatively undocumented, which gave Paula the opportunity to bring him to life, and this turbulent eldest son goes on to wreak havoc with his father’s invasion. It seems that Burghred felt that he deserved Mercia for himself if he could stop Aelfgar’s advance. Is it treachery to turn against one’s father if that father is a traitor? Once again, loyalties are tested and usually found wanting.
Any reader who enjoys battle scenes will be more than satisfied with the details provided by a reenactor who knows her weapons and tactics. Our Wulfhere, after delivering a rousing speech, goes on to prove, once again, that he is the best. But what does he gain for his courage and prowess? Apparently, nothing. For in this world, there is very little fairness meted out by the Lords, and there is no reason to expect that evil deeds will ever be punished, except by the sword.
I was happy to receive an ARC from the author for my honest review.
March 16, 2017
The Wolf Banner is the second book in the Sons of the Wolf series. Here Ms. Lofting picks up the story of Wulfhere of Horstede, one of the king’s Thegns. The story now picks up 10 years before the Norman conquest, and while we follow Wulfhere’s journey; not only his military life but the trial of a husband and father, a man, and a friend, torn between what he knows to be right and what his heart tell him. Yet woven into all of this we can’t help but start to see the actual, and often ruthless decisions some families were forced to make for King and country, at the expense of those they hold dearest.
Ms. Lofting has brilliantly created characters that come off the page as living breathing figures. When Wulfhere is forced to make choices that will alter the fates of his children one cannot help but feel his pain.
You meet the real Lady Godiva, not simply a beautiful woman to be objectified, but a Lady of strength and power, that has the guile to hold her families’ legacy together.
The political intrigue of Edward the Confessor’s court is laid bare. The rivalries between the Godwinson’s, the animosity between Earls, the betrayals between fathers and son, and the price one paid for treachery abound in this second story.
By the end of this story, over the course of three years, Wulfhere of Horstede, is a broken man that must still find a way to go on. The years have harshly changed his family, yet with hopefulness and his grown children ….. he will go on.
Ms. Lofting has brilliantly created characters that come off the page as living breathing figures. When Wulfhere is forced to make choices that will alter the fates of his children one cannot help but feel his pain.
You meet the real Lady Godiva, not simply a beautiful woman to be objectified, but a Lady of strength and power, that has the guile to hold her families’ legacy together.
The political intrigue of Edward the Confessor’s court is laid bare. The rivalries between the Godwinson’s, the animosity between Earls, the betrayals between fathers and son, and the price one paid for treachery abound in this second story.
By the end of this story, over the course of three years, Wulfhere of Horstede, is a broken man that must still find a way to go on. The years have harshly changed his family, yet with hopefulness and his grown children ….. he will go on.
July 27, 2016
The Wolf Banner is the follow up book to Sons of the Wolf which I loved! This has to be one my my most anticipated releases of 2016 and I didn’t let me down.
First off I must says it’s taken a while for the author to get this book ready to be published but I can say honestly that all the time and heard work she has put into it has paid off.
The book follows on nicely from where Sons left off, as as you’d expect it’s full to the brim of action and develops the characters even further. I really enjoyed Burghred in this story.. The author explains little is known about him so she was able to give life to him with her words and besides Wulfhere he was the most interesting character for me
Another character I believe came into his own in this tale was Aemund, a very funny cheeky chap indeed.
The twins are back also in this tale and they play a pivotal role..They have matured a little and are ready to stand in the shieldwall with their father.
The family feud that existed in Sons of the Wolf is even more heated if that’s possible and Edgar and Freyda are in the thick of it….will it ever end? I guess I’d like to see things resolved but at the same time I like the possibilities this feud can bring to the story.
The best scene which I won’t ruin for you involves Gunnhild.. who you may remember from the first book. She not likeable at all and there’s a funny little event that plays out that had me laughing for ages.
For those who are fans of a good battle won’t be disappointed either as Wulfhere gets to show he may be getting old but he can still fight tooth and nail.
Although the book focuses on the life of Wulfhere the underlying tale of Harold Godwinson plays out beautifully. Anyone who enjoys this period in time should find this book the perfect accompaniment to go with other tales of Harold.. This book brings fresh life to the period for me and makes me want to reread books I thought I’d probably not look at again.
I can’t fault this book, not one bit. I loved it from start to finished and it ticked every box for me.
Paula really knows her history and how to hook the reader in and i can’t wait for book three Wolf’s Bane! I’ve been left me on tenterhooks as to what will happen next (FYI I’ve never used tenterhooks in a sentence before :) )
First off I must says it’s taken a while for the author to get this book ready to be published but I can say honestly that all the time and heard work she has put into it has paid off.
The book follows on nicely from where Sons left off, as as you’d expect it’s full to the brim of action and develops the characters even further. I really enjoyed Burghred in this story.. The author explains little is known about him so she was able to give life to him with her words and besides Wulfhere he was the most interesting character for me
Another character I believe came into his own in this tale was Aemund, a very funny cheeky chap indeed.
The twins are back also in this tale and they play a pivotal role..They have matured a little and are ready to stand in the shieldwall with their father.
The family feud that existed in Sons of the Wolf is even more heated if that’s possible and Edgar and Freyda are in the thick of it….will it ever end? I guess I’d like to see things resolved but at the same time I like the possibilities this feud can bring to the story.
The best scene which I won’t ruin for you involves Gunnhild.. who you may remember from the first book. She not likeable at all and there’s a funny little event that plays out that had me laughing for ages.
For those who are fans of a good battle won’t be disappointed either as Wulfhere gets to show he may be getting old but he can still fight tooth and nail.
Although the book focuses on the life of Wulfhere the underlying tale of Harold Godwinson plays out beautifully. Anyone who enjoys this period in time should find this book the perfect accompaniment to go with other tales of Harold.. This book brings fresh life to the period for me and makes me want to reread books I thought I’d probably not look at again.
I can’t fault this book, not one bit. I loved it from start to finished and it ticked every box for me.
Paula really knows her history and how to hook the reader in and i can’t wait for book three Wolf’s Bane! I’ve been left me on tenterhooks as to what will happen next (FYI I’ve never used tenterhooks in a sentence before :) )
February 22, 2017
Mature and Accomplished
I rarely find a book ticks all the boxes. Especially in an era that usually I dont enjoy. However, this novel demonstrates what an author who knows the era and has the skill to weave historical detail with plot and subplot can do. The novel shows us of a time where honour, politics and religion tore people from their homes and flung them onto the field of battle. It deals with smaller conflicts between families of power and the grander quarrels as king and chieftain manoeuvre to gain maximum power. I dont do spoilers. In summary however, this is a mature and accomplished piece of literature and one the finest works if historical fiction that have read in quite some time.
Robert Southworth (Author of the Spartacus Chronicles)
I rarely find a book ticks all the boxes. Especially in an era that usually I dont enjoy. However, this novel demonstrates what an author who knows the era and has the skill to weave historical detail with plot and subplot can do. The novel shows us of a time where honour, politics and religion tore people from their homes and flung them onto the field of battle. It deals with smaller conflicts between families of power and the grander quarrels as king and chieftain manoeuvre to gain maximum power. I dont do spoilers. In summary however, this is a mature and accomplished piece of literature and one the finest works if historical fiction that have read in quite some time.
Robert Southworth (Author of the Spartacus Chronicles)
June 24, 2017
Best battle description ever! A great followup to the first book. This book expands the cast to include real and fictional characters and does it so well you have to remind yourself which ones actually existed. It fills in gaps of little known history intelligently - I love the author comments at the end explaing her method. This book continues the story of Wulhere's family as they go to war and focuses more on the intrigue and deception of the times. The battle scenes make you forget to breathe. Can't wait for #3.
July 17, 2017
I loved this second installment of the Sons of the Wolf series by Paula Lofting. It was engaging and exciting, with political intrigue and battle scenes, yet it also felt very relatable, with everyday details and complex emotional development. Can't wait to read the third one that is in the works now.
August 20, 2016
Were to start? Well, I will start by saying that reviewing a book written from the heart, is not a task, but a joy, and something to look forward to. Paula Lofting writes from the heart, and her books show the evidence of this. Her knowledge of the era in which she writes, demonstrates this, together with a sympathetic understanding of the lives lived then, and those of her characters populating her books, and this is an absolute gift for a reader.
I was most fortunate to receive an ARC (advance reading copy) of The Wolf Banner to review, and it has been an undertaking which I have devoured, greedily.
Most people have heard of The Battle of Hastings, I should imagine. But how many know of what went before?
Paula Lofting’s, The Wolf Banner, takes us there, and carries on from where Sons of the Wolf finished, and takes us further into the lives of Wulfhere and his family.
The characters are laid bare before us, as we learn about them as they weave through the plot of the book. We learn of their foibles, their loves, their anxieties, their strengths, and their weaknesses. We learn what drives them to do what they do; and see the world of 1056 unfold through their eyes, just ten short years before the famous, or infamous, Battle of Hastings.
Lofting has an uncanny insight into their world, as she is a re-enactor in this period with the re-enactment group, Regia Anglorum. With this insight, Lofting describes her characters in such detail, that we at once become invested in their lives. We feel their insecurities, we feel their anxieties, as though they were our own. When there is a conflict within, and between families, we automatically choose a side, such is the writing. We find ourselves urging one to win over the other.
This brings me to the battle scenes. Battles which have an authenticity, to the point where, as though standing on the edge of the battlefield, we duck; shy away; hide, and even look through our fingers to see who has won. The descriptions of the fighting invoke the smell of fear, the smell of the blood. The clash of weapons ring loudly in your ears as you imagine the battle raging on before you. Let me quote from one scene:
The field was heaving with warriors, engaged in fierce battle. The air around them was made thicker with cries of fallen men, and the roars of those administering the killer blows. Steel could be heard clashing on wood and leather. Armour made ripping sounds as spear tips penetrated, stabbing their way through flesh and muscle. These sounds and the sensation of slipping and sliding over bloodied grass, made unrecognisable by human gore and innards, were all that Wulfhere could hear and feel in his heightened state.
Lofting has the ability to engender the tension of battle, and what I would call, the ‘wild eye’ of battle. This, for me, is as though that person fighting, is fighting in the eye of the storm; all around him running in slow motion. And it is only when that fight is won, does the rest of the battle come, noisily, back into focus again. I was left breathless from these battles, and some of them I had to read more than once; not because I didn’t quite get it the first time, but to admire the ‘dance of battle’ as Lofting puts it. It is almost balletic, movements executed with finesse, swirling, and cleaving with the assuredness and skill of a seasoned warrior.
The Wolf Banner is a feat of skillful writing, which will not only immerse you, the reader, into the world ten years before The Battle of Hastings, but will immerse you into the lives of those encumbered with that ordeal. The reader will also be drawn into the families, along with their own trials, and wish, with the knowledge of history, that it would be possible to warn them of what is to come.
I will finish by saying that Paula Lofting’s books will not disappoint, but I feel that so tempting are they, that they will give you, the reader, an eagerness to read more about the rich history that led to that most famous of battles, and in by so doing, find, as I have, a need to find out more.
I was most fortunate to receive an ARC (advance reading copy) of The Wolf Banner to review, and it has been an undertaking which I have devoured, greedily.
Most people have heard of The Battle of Hastings, I should imagine. But how many know of what went before?
Paula Lofting’s, The Wolf Banner, takes us there, and carries on from where Sons of the Wolf finished, and takes us further into the lives of Wulfhere and his family.
The characters are laid bare before us, as we learn about them as they weave through the plot of the book. We learn of their foibles, their loves, their anxieties, their strengths, and their weaknesses. We learn what drives them to do what they do; and see the world of 1056 unfold through their eyes, just ten short years before the famous, or infamous, Battle of Hastings.
Lofting has an uncanny insight into their world, as she is a re-enactor in this period with the re-enactment group, Regia Anglorum. With this insight, Lofting describes her characters in such detail, that we at once become invested in their lives. We feel their insecurities, we feel their anxieties, as though they were our own. When there is a conflict within, and between families, we automatically choose a side, such is the writing. We find ourselves urging one to win over the other.
This brings me to the battle scenes. Battles which have an authenticity, to the point where, as though standing on the edge of the battlefield, we duck; shy away; hide, and even look through our fingers to see who has won. The descriptions of the fighting invoke the smell of fear, the smell of the blood. The clash of weapons ring loudly in your ears as you imagine the battle raging on before you. Let me quote from one scene:
The field was heaving with warriors, engaged in fierce battle. The air around them was made thicker with cries of fallen men, and the roars of those administering the killer blows. Steel could be heard clashing on wood and leather. Armour made ripping sounds as spear tips penetrated, stabbing their way through flesh and muscle. These sounds and the sensation of slipping and sliding over bloodied grass, made unrecognisable by human gore and innards, were all that Wulfhere could hear and feel in his heightened state.
Lofting has the ability to engender the tension of battle, and what I would call, the ‘wild eye’ of battle. This, for me, is as though that person fighting, is fighting in the eye of the storm; all around him running in slow motion. And it is only when that fight is won, does the rest of the battle come, noisily, back into focus again. I was left breathless from these battles, and some of them I had to read more than once; not because I didn’t quite get it the first time, but to admire the ‘dance of battle’ as Lofting puts it. It is almost balletic, movements executed with finesse, swirling, and cleaving with the assuredness and skill of a seasoned warrior.
The Wolf Banner is a feat of skillful writing, which will not only immerse you, the reader, into the world ten years before The Battle of Hastings, but will immerse you into the lives of those encumbered with that ordeal. The reader will also be drawn into the families, along with their own trials, and wish, with the knowledge of history, that it would be possible to warn them of what is to come.
I will finish by saying that Paula Lofting’s books will not disappoint, but I feel that so tempting are they, that they will give you, the reader, an eagerness to read more about the rich history that led to that most famous of battles, and in by so doing, find, as I have, a need to find out more.
April 6, 2017
The opening pages of The Wolf Banner (Sons of the Wolf Book 2) are poignant and heartbreaking, yet leave the reader feeling they are in safe hands for a book that will stir the soul.
The characters and story line, familiar to readers from the first book, are reintroduced seamlessly with the ease of a consummate story teller, enabling both new readers and those who read part one, to enjoy the book with equal pleasure. The characters throughout feel like real people, friends (or enemies) to us, people who live and breathe, laugh and love and cry enabling the reader to develop genuine emotion for them.
The author, Paula Lofting, tackles emotions in a way that shows a true knowledge of human nature and a deep understanding of what makes up the human condition and how people act and interact with situations and each other.
The storyline interweaves fact and fictional events and people without detracting either from the story or the genuine (known) history. The story is strong, well paced, cohesive and compelling and very well researched. Ms Lofting shows a thorough knowledge and understanding of that era and has an almost uncanny way of bringing us straight to the heart of the story. Where facts are scarce or non existent, Ms Lofting has put forth a credible and well thought out scenario.
Daily life and battle scenes are depicted well and when reading about a fight, the readers feels to be part of the action, smelling the blood, hearing the punches. Likewise the escription of one of the characters very inebriated, whilst being very funny, is actually painfully true to life and how a drunk person would react.
As I did with regard to Sons of the Wolf, I again applaud Ms Lofting for her depictions of fear and what we would today recognise as PTSD. This excerpt is one perfect example of the knowledge and description of fear, "Wulfhere continued, his voice croaking with emotion. “Do you know what it is to have your blood run cold, every inch of your skin oozing with the sweat of terror? That is fear.” His hand clawed his abdomen. “It tears at your belly with monstrous talons, paralyses your every muscle and sinew; seizes your mind in a vice-like grip. That is fear. Fear! It makes your heart pump; fills your veins with the strength to survive, and when it does, you will use every means known to you, to fight, kill – stay alive. Courage without fear makes you stupid – and stupid men will die. Fear is your friend. Fear, will keep you alive... So be brave when you dance with Déaþscufa, and let your courage and fear be your armour!” The twins, as if downcast at having their spirits crushed, both murmured sullenly in acknowledgement, and those young men who had looked on, absorbed by Wulfhere’s sermon, nodded and spoke words of accord."
Clothes and accoutrements are described in minute, but not tedious, detail, adding greatly to the mental picture imparted to the reader. An occasional welcome comedic element is introduced, and I hope I am not giving away any spoilers by saying that I laughed aloud at the passages describing a fight with a broom between Aemund and Gunnhild Another passage which raised a wry smile from me and was exceptionally well written, is something we never think of – the boredom of the king! forced to listen to things that are tedious to him when he would rather be hunting.
The description of sudden loss and bereavement is painfully real and I was very damp eyed whilst reading one chapter (to be honest, I am not sure I have really recovered yet!)
It is with sorrow that we see the homestead Wolfhere and his family breaking apart and we grieve for them all, but the ending brings us a glimmer of hope that maybe there are brighter times for the Thegn on the horizon. I hope so!
A truly great look at England at that time. A wonderful book. It is so powerful. So terrible. So brilliantly and painfully real.
The characters and story line, familiar to readers from the first book, are reintroduced seamlessly with the ease of a consummate story teller, enabling both new readers and those who read part one, to enjoy the book with equal pleasure. The characters throughout feel like real people, friends (or enemies) to us, people who live and breathe, laugh and love and cry enabling the reader to develop genuine emotion for them.
The author, Paula Lofting, tackles emotions in a way that shows a true knowledge of human nature and a deep understanding of what makes up the human condition and how people act and interact with situations and each other.
The storyline interweaves fact and fictional events and people without detracting either from the story or the genuine (known) history. The story is strong, well paced, cohesive and compelling and very well researched. Ms Lofting shows a thorough knowledge and understanding of that era and has an almost uncanny way of bringing us straight to the heart of the story. Where facts are scarce or non existent, Ms Lofting has put forth a credible and well thought out scenario.
Daily life and battle scenes are depicted well and when reading about a fight, the readers feels to be part of the action, smelling the blood, hearing the punches. Likewise the escription of one of the characters very inebriated, whilst being very funny, is actually painfully true to life and how a drunk person would react.
As I did with regard to Sons of the Wolf, I again applaud Ms Lofting for her depictions of fear and what we would today recognise as PTSD. This excerpt is one perfect example of the knowledge and description of fear, "Wulfhere continued, his voice croaking with emotion. “Do you know what it is to have your blood run cold, every inch of your skin oozing with the sweat of terror? That is fear.” His hand clawed his abdomen. “It tears at your belly with monstrous talons, paralyses your every muscle and sinew; seizes your mind in a vice-like grip. That is fear. Fear! It makes your heart pump; fills your veins with the strength to survive, and when it does, you will use every means known to you, to fight, kill – stay alive. Courage without fear makes you stupid – and stupid men will die. Fear is your friend. Fear, will keep you alive... So be brave when you dance with Déaþscufa, and let your courage and fear be your armour!” The twins, as if downcast at having their spirits crushed, both murmured sullenly in acknowledgement, and those young men who had looked on, absorbed by Wulfhere’s sermon, nodded and spoke words of accord."
Clothes and accoutrements are described in minute, but not tedious, detail, adding greatly to the mental picture imparted to the reader. An occasional welcome comedic element is introduced, and I hope I am not giving away any spoilers by saying that I laughed aloud at the passages describing a fight with a broom between Aemund and Gunnhild Another passage which raised a wry smile from me and was exceptionally well written, is something we never think of – the boredom of the king! forced to listen to things that are tedious to him when he would rather be hunting.
The description of sudden loss and bereavement is painfully real and I was very damp eyed whilst reading one chapter (to be honest, I am not sure I have really recovered yet!)
It is with sorrow that we see the homestead Wolfhere and his family breaking apart and we grieve for them all, but the ending brings us a glimmer of hope that maybe there are brighter times for the Thegn on the horizon. I hope so!
A truly great look at England at that time. A wonderful book. It is so powerful. So terrible. So brilliantly and painfully real.
October 8, 2018
I enjoy reading historical fiction for the same reason I enjoy watching Time Team, not just to immerse myself in the historical era, but to get close to the people and Ms Lofting describes her characters and their relationships with skill and an artful touch. Details of clothing and daily tasks help paint a picture of life from 1056AD in Horstede.
Where the first book in the series, Sons of the Wolf, is mainly about Wulfhere, a real thegn from the Doomsday book, The Wolf’s Banner begins and ends with Wulfhere and his family, but chronicles the trials, victories and setbacks of Burghred, son of Afgar, who goes against his father in support of his king. He wishes to uphold his grandfather’s name, rather than gain back his Mercian kingdom at the expense of the English throne.
There’s battles and blood feuds, family disputes and coming of age trials, set against the political maelstrom, ten years before the Norman Conquest. Even though these are violent times, the author doesn’t shirk from describing the outright fear and seeming futility of hacking your opponents to death in a shield wall as they breathe their last breath in your face, before another victim treads over his kinsman to receive the same brutal punishment.
I loved reading of Wulfhere’s children growing up, and the inevitability of the destruction of his relationship with his wife, Ealdgytha made me sad. Burghred’s ambitions and clever use of tactics to end a siege and the coming of age of Winflaed were two highlights of the book for me, and I felt for both of them, living their lives as pawns at a time of chaos and political uproar.
Three tumultuous years take their toll on Wulfhere, but he lives to fight another battle, and there’s hope at end of the book, that he will be restored.
Where the first book in the series, Sons of the Wolf, is mainly about Wulfhere, a real thegn from the Doomsday book, The Wolf’s Banner begins and ends with Wulfhere and his family, but chronicles the trials, victories and setbacks of Burghred, son of Afgar, who goes against his father in support of his king. He wishes to uphold his grandfather’s name, rather than gain back his Mercian kingdom at the expense of the English throne.
There’s battles and blood feuds, family disputes and coming of age trials, set against the political maelstrom, ten years before the Norman Conquest. Even though these are violent times, the author doesn’t shirk from describing the outright fear and seeming futility of hacking your opponents to death in a shield wall as they breathe their last breath in your face, before another victim treads over his kinsman to receive the same brutal punishment.
I loved reading of Wulfhere’s children growing up, and the inevitability of the destruction of his relationship with his wife, Ealdgytha made me sad. Burghred’s ambitions and clever use of tactics to end a siege and the coming of age of Winflaed were two highlights of the book for me, and I felt for both of them, living their lives as pawns at a time of chaos and political uproar.
Three tumultuous years take their toll on Wulfhere, but he lives to fight another battle, and there’s hope at end of the book, that he will be restored.
July 30, 2016
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of The Wolf Banner by author Paula Lofting. The Wolf Banner is the second book in the series following the terrific debut novel, Sons of the Wolf. The Wolf Banner continues the trials, triumphs, and tribulations of Wulfhere and his family along with his home village, Horstede.
Chronicling the turbulent years of 1056-1058 in pre-Conquest England, The Wolf Banner deftly draws the reader into the politics of the time and the Anglo-Saxon way of life during King Edward the Confessor's reign.
Lofting brilliantly weaves the many characters into the plot with skill, describes the battle scenes with authenticity, and writes a believable story of the happenings of 1058. The author has gone from strength to strength with this second book. A real page turner that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in pre-Conquest England, King Harold II, or the Anglo-Saxon era.
I am eagerly awaiting book three and the continuing adventures of Wulfhere and his family.
Chronicling the turbulent years of 1056-1058 in pre-Conquest England, The Wolf Banner deftly draws the reader into the politics of the time and the Anglo-Saxon way of life during King Edward the Confessor's reign.
Lofting brilliantly weaves the many characters into the plot with skill, describes the battle scenes with authenticity, and writes a believable story of the happenings of 1058. The author has gone from strength to strength with this second book. A real page turner that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in pre-Conquest England, King Harold II, or the Anglo-Saxon era.
I am eagerly awaiting book three and the continuing adventures of Wulfhere and his family.
October 7, 2021
Being a man is not just about fighting wars and battles. It takes courage to right the wrongs one has made.
It also takes wisdom to understand that some things are not so easily forgiven. Wulfhere seemingly has it all. He has a loyal wife who loves him and a beautiful family, but this was not enough for him. He needed more. Over and over again he has committed the same sin, never quite ready to leave his mistress's bed, but the time has come when he must face up to the facts that his indiscretions and disloyalty have consequences. But has he left it too late to ask for forgiveness?
Drowning in a sea of Godwinsons, Alfgar, Earl of Mercia, is running out of options. But when the moment he has feared transpires, when King Edward informs him that he is about to lose his lands, he knows exactly what to do. But will the men of Mercia stand with him, and if they do, will he be victorious?
Having read Sons of the Wolf, it was with an eager anticipation that I began to read The Wolf Banner: Sons of the Wolf Book 2. I expected big things from this novel because Paula Lofting is an accomplished bard who is not only gifted at writing believable and gritty battle scenes, but also has an empathetic understanding of human nature. Lofting’s compelling narrative made this novel utterly enthralling from start to finish.
Lofting has once again presented her readers with a book that has not only been meticulously researched but one that is filled with action and adventure. There is no let-up in this novel, no time to catch one’s breath as the events unfold, hurtling towards a future that will change the course of English history forever.
The historical detailing of this story is staggering. The hours and hours that Lofting has dedicated to research shines through in her elegant and authoritative penmanship. The historical backdrop of this story is magnificent. There was no doubt in my mind while I read this book as to which century I was in.
Conflict is a central theme that runs throughout this book. At court, tensions are rising for there are those who have taken exception to the Godwinsons' good fortune and royal favour. Men such as Alfgar, who is out of favour, is not about to sit ideally by and let the puppet-king, Edward, take Mercia from him. He is confident in his position of power, trusting of his allies Gruffydd ap Llewelyn and Magnus Haraldsson, and assured of his son’s loyalty, but this is an era of cloaks and daggers and no one, not even those closest to you, can be trusted. The humiliation, the threat of obscurity, is a driving force that leads Alfgar down a very dangerous road. The King is weak, but the Godwinsons are not. Which leads us on to The Battle of Hereford. Lofting is incredibly gifted when it comes to writing believable and realistic battle scenes. The Battle of Hereford was depicted in all of its horrors.
There are some very fascinating characters in this book, each with a wonderful story and insight into the events of the months leading up to the end of Edward’s reign. The character that intrigued me the most was Ealdgytha, Wulfhere’s wife. Ealdgytha comes across as a cold-hearted, stern and, at times, exceedingly cruel woman, but that is not the kind of person she is, or perhaps it would be better to use the word was. Ealdgytha is a woman who has lost so very much and she has been emotionally abused and betrayed most terribly by her husband. I could not help but weep when she discovers the identity of a baby that her husband “found” in the stable, and how, after bestowing a mother’s love on the child, she is forced to give her back. It is of little wonder as to why she finds herself in such a fragile mental state. Ealdgytha's story is one of a woman who keeps giving her husband numerous second chances, but who finally realises that he will never change. Saying that, however, sometimes Ealdgytha was hard to like as she is quite domineering of her children and exceptionally blunt, and she is happy to use physical punishments if her anger is raised beyond endurance, but she does love them and her helplessness at not being able to predict or stop events from occurring was heart-rendering.
Wulfhere is a man who has made mistake after mistake and yet he is seemingly trapped in this never-ending circle of self-destruction. He is the cause of so much suffering in his household because of the things has done outside of it, and yet, at times he acts as if he is the wronged party. He seemingly lives in fear of his wife’s wrath, but he is arrogant and ignorant enough to continue to lie to her. As a man, Wulfhere is likeable enough but, in this novel, I did find it difficult not to judge him because his affair and actions affects everyone around him.
I adored the depiction of Harold Godwinson. I thought Lofting had really captured the essence of the man. Harold is a man of integrity and honour, but he is also a husband (by hand-fast) and a father. Lofting has presented her readers with a very loyal, very clever man who is, despite his determination to keep his position, as well as gain from it, exceedingly likeable.
The Wolf Banner: Sons of the Wolf Book 2 by Paula Lofting is a historical fiction triumph. However, to get the most out of this novel, you really need to read Book 1 for the character list is vast and it would be very easy to become confused as to who everyone is and what role they have to play in this story.
The Wolf Banner would certainly appeal to readers who enjoy battle heavy historical fiction and emotionally gripping family sagas.
I Highly Recommend.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
April 23, 2018
A vibrant reenactment of Anglo-Saxon times
In this second installment of the Sons of the Wolf series, the Wulfhere saga continues with a bang and with as much gore as one might expect of an Anglo-Saxon world. Like its prequel, The Wolf Banner is imbued with all the requisite historical detail that easily draws the reader into the era. The scope of the story now broadens to extend to Welsh and Scandinavian interests, which makes for an interesting mix. The pace of the story is fast and unrelenting, with all manner of conflict devised to keep you on the edge of your seat. Lofting has a knack of merging fact and fiction with such skill, a reader won't even notice it's fiction until all is clarified in the after-note.
Among the medley of characters, three major ones dominate. Although Wulfhere, thegn of Horstede, is more or less still the hero, I found myself drawn more and more to a relative newcomer by the name of Burghred, son of the ruthless Alfgar, Earl of Mercia, who in this volume shares centre stage with the Horstede clan and even manages to appropriate it for a good part of the novel. A trap, a spy, a betrayer of fathers—or is he? I like to think not, for he is after all acting at the behest of Harold Godwinson, Earl of Wessex, on behalf of the English monarch.
Burghred is the character with whom I most identified in the entire novel. Pity that his role didn't end all that well, and that he faded into the background as soon as he performed his office to the King. I certainly hope Lofting will bring him back to us in her sequel, as there's substance in his characterisation that I found very gripping. He's one of those characters who 'seems' to behave badly while actually behaving more honourably than most; a pawn in the hands of self-seeking players, used and discarded, who basically ends up with egg on his face.
In her historical note, Lofting tells us that Burghred is a real character, which was an interesting anecdote as I was in two minds throughout her narrative as to whether his role was fact or fiction, so well does the author blend the two together as to be unable to distinguish one from the other.
Another dominant character is Helghi, of course, the fiend from the neighbouring house of Gorde, who returns with a vengeance. He is the dark, heavy cloud that lurks threateningly in the background. You never know what evil mischief he'll be up to next, but you know it's just around the corner. Having now read this second sequel, I have a question burning in my mind that I hope the author will answer in her next installment: Did Helghi commit the murder? (I won't say who, as I wouldn't like to impinge on a reader's enjoyment by adding a spoiler.) The author leaves us with an open-ended question, but I strongly suspect he did. Now I'm all agog to find that out in the next sequel. Helghi's comeuppance is long overdue, methinks!
Then there is Wulfhere, around whom the plot revolves. We get to see a darker side to him in this sequel. In battle, there's no doubt that his valour shines, but in his private life, he remains an unrepentant adulterer, an insensitive husband, and often even a weak father. To my mind, Wulfhere has little regard for the feelings of others. He is plagued by guilt, but for some reason it doesn't stop him from falling foul to his many weaknesses. I see this as a major flaw in his character. It's not until the end of the novel that it finally dawns on him that it's his own selfishness and his double standards that have created the havoc, not just in everybody's lives but even in his own. I can't say I was sorry to see him getting his just desserts in the end. Naturally, one hopes that in the next sequel, Wulfhere will have learnt his lesson and be a better man for it. The novel does end with that possibility.
In a lesser role in this volume are young Tovi and Ealdgytha, son and wife of Wulfhere. Tovi is disappointingly banished to school in Waltham and the reader gets to know little of him. I would have liked to see a turn in his fortunes in this sequel, as he was quite my favourite character in the first novel. Alas, it wasn't to be! As for the long-suffering Ealdgytha, she spends a good deal of this novel in a deep state of depression on account of the tragedy of loss and the consequences of an unfaithful spouse. There is a lesson to be learnt from this by-play between spouses which is all summed up in a single thought by Ealdgytha toward the end: "… a heart can only be fixed so many times. Hers had been broken a hundred times over, and now, there was nothing left to break." Excellent food for thought.
On a lighter note, a comical scene in the earlier part of the novel must bear a mention as it had me laughing and re-reading and laughing anew. It's an episode between Gunnhild, Wulfhere's manly sister-in-law, who is something of a bully and not a very likeable character, and Aemund, son of Leofnoth and Freyda's new husband. A hint: it occurs in the yard and involves a broom and pigswill! I still laugh when I think about it. It's the stuff of classical comedy acts of the 'Laurel and Hardy' ilk, but oh, so well written you'd never want it to end. I guarantee it'll have you in stitches.
All told, The Wolf Banner is a moving portrayal of turbulent times with very real interpersonal episodes that a lover of historical fiction will enjoy reading over and over. Lofting explores the human condition through her characters in a vibrant and realistic way that keeps a reader absorbed from beginning to end. I am now much looking forward to the next installment, Wolf's Bane. May I dare hope that both Tovi and Burghred will come up trumps at last!
In this second installment of the Sons of the Wolf series, the Wulfhere saga continues with a bang and with as much gore as one might expect of an Anglo-Saxon world. Like its prequel, The Wolf Banner is imbued with all the requisite historical detail that easily draws the reader into the era. The scope of the story now broadens to extend to Welsh and Scandinavian interests, which makes for an interesting mix. The pace of the story is fast and unrelenting, with all manner of conflict devised to keep you on the edge of your seat. Lofting has a knack of merging fact and fiction with such skill, a reader won't even notice it's fiction until all is clarified in the after-note.
Among the medley of characters, three major ones dominate. Although Wulfhere, thegn of Horstede, is more or less still the hero, I found myself drawn more and more to a relative newcomer by the name of Burghred, son of the ruthless Alfgar, Earl of Mercia, who in this volume shares centre stage with the Horstede clan and even manages to appropriate it for a good part of the novel. A trap, a spy, a betrayer of fathers—or is he? I like to think not, for he is after all acting at the behest of Harold Godwinson, Earl of Wessex, on behalf of the English monarch.
Burghred is the character with whom I most identified in the entire novel. Pity that his role didn't end all that well, and that he faded into the background as soon as he performed his office to the King. I certainly hope Lofting will bring him back to us in her sequel, as there's substance in his characterisation that I found very gripping. He's one of those characters who 'seems' to behave badly while actually behaving more honourably than most; a pawn in the hands of self-seeking players, used and discarded, who basically ends up with egg on his face.
In her historical note, Lofting tells us that Burghred is a real character, which was an interesting anecdote as I was in two minds throughout her narrative as to whether his role was fact or fiction, so well does the author blend the two together as to be unable to distinguish one from the other.
Another dominant character is Helghi, of course, the fiend from the neighbouring house of Gorde, who returns with a vengeance. He is the dark, heavy cloud that lurks threateningly in the background. You never know what evil mischief he'll be up to next, but you know it's just around the corner. Having now read this second sequel, I have a question burning in my mind that I hope the author will answer in her next installment: Did Helghi commit the murder? (I won't say who, as I wouldn't like to impinge on a reader's enjoyment by adding a spoiler.) The author leaves us with an open-ended question, but I strongly suspect he did. Now I'm all agog to find that out in the next sequel. Helghi's comeuppance is long overdue, methinks!
Then there is Wulfhere, around whom the plot revolves. We get to see a darker side to him in this sequel. In battle, there's no doubt that his valour shines, but in his private life, he remains an unrepentant adulterer, an insensitive husband, and often even a weak father. To my mind, Wulfhere has little regard for the feelings of others. He is plagued by guilt, but for some reason it doesn't stop him from falling foul to his many weaknesses. I see this as a major flaw in his character. It's not until the end of the novel that it finally dawns on him that it's his own selfishness and his double standards that have created the havoc, not just in everybody's lives but even in his own. I can't say I was sorry to see him getting his just desserts in the end. Naturally, one hopes that in the next sequel, Wulfhere will have learnt his lesson and be a better man for it. The novel does end with that possibility.
In a lesser role in this volume are young Tovi and Ealdgytha, son and wife of Wulfhere. Tovi is disappointingly banished to school in Waltham and the reader gets to know little of him. I would have liked to see a turn in his fortunes in this sequel, as he was quite my favourite character in the first novel. Alas, it wasn't to be! As for the long-suffering Ealdgytha, she spends a good deal of this novel in a deep state of depression on account of the tragedy of loss and the consequences of an unfaithful spouse. There is a lesson to be learnt from this by-play between spouses which is all summed up in a single thought by Ealdgytha toward the end: "… a heart can only be fixed so many times. Hers had been broken a hundred times over, and now, there was nothing left to break." Excellent food for thought.
On a lighter note, a comical scene in the earlier part of the novel must bear a mention as it had me laughing and re-reading and laughing anew. It's an episode between Gunnhild, Wulfhere's manly sister-in-law, who is something of a bully and not a very likeable character, and Aemund, son of Leofnoth and Freyda's new husband. A hint: it occurs in the yard and involves a broom and pigswill! I still laugh when I think about it. It's the stuff of classical comedy acts of the 'Laurel and Hardy' ilk, but oh, so well written you'd never want it to end. I guarantee it'll have you in stitches.
All told, The Wolf Banner is a moving portrayal of turbulent times with very real interpersonal episodes that a lover of historical fiction will enjoy reading over and over. Lofting explores the human condition through her characters in a vibrant and realistic way that keeps a reader absorbed from beginning to end. I am now much looking forward to the next installment, Wolf's Bane. May I dare hope that both Tovi and Burghred will come up trumps at last!
June 27, 2018
The Wolf Banner by Paula Lofting has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
Pauline Barclay
Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
www.chillwithabook.com
Pauline Barclay
Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
December 11, 2020
An ill wind blows over England as noble families are drawn into battle and their loyalties are tested in the political machinations of Anglo-Saxon rulers. The Wolf Banner (Sons of the Wolf Series, Book Two) by Paula Lofting is an epic saga in pre-Norman 11th Century England where Lord Alfgar plots a war against King Edward for political gain. The epic saga continues the tale of the Sussex thegn, Wulhere, who faces strife within his family and conflict with his bitter enemy, Helghi. There is sufficient background to read the second book as a standalone but reading the first book in the series would be advantageous to help avoid confusion with the myriad of characters and their storylines.
The epic continues in 1056 when Wulhere defies his lord, Harold Godwinson, by breaking a marital agreement for his daughter to wed the son of his bitter enemy, Helghi. Wulhere’s relationship with his wife is strained due to his infidelity with a mistress who gives birth to their child. As he struggles to balance internal conflict within his family, an ill wind blows over England as Lord Alfgar allies with the Norsemen and Gruffudd to war against King Edward for political advantage. Harold manipulates Alfgar’s son, Burghred, to betray his father a second time. Loyalties are tested and betrayals revealed in a chest game for political power.
Author Paula Lofting weaves heartfelt personal tales into the broad political landscape of historical figures who drive events leading up to the Battle of Hastings. The story is told from various points of view to give a broader historical context, but the frequent changes in perspective sometimes makes it difficult to transition from one storyline to another. The narrative works best when it focuses on Wulhere’s struggles with his family and adversary, Helghi. Lofting masterfully captures Wulhere’s raw emotions of love, betrayal, and loss in his life journey as a noble warrior and family man. There are some poignant moments when his children’s lives are caught up in the political whirlwind of those in power. Burghred is also another engaging character with whom I could empathize with his conflicting loyalties to King Edward and his father, Alfgar. However, there a few scenes that did not add significantly to the plot which, in my opinion, could have been deleted to make the narrative leaner.
The battle scenes are riveting and some of the best I’ve read. This is where the different perspectives of the various characters work best to capture the logistics of the battlefield and the unfolding tragedy. The everyday life in medieval England is brought to life with impeccable detail based on the author’s extensive research. The glossary of places and language used in the book were extra bonuses. It would have been helpful to have a list of characters highlighting their historical significance and their relationships with other characters. There were a few grammatical errors, but these didn’t detract from the story.
The Wolf Banner is a multi-layered, epic saga set toward the end of Anglo-Saxon rule in medieval England with memorable characters, realistic depiction of middle ages lifestyle, political intrigue, and gripping battle scenes. Recommended.
The epic continues in 1056 when Wulhere defies his lord, Harold Godwinson, by breaking a marital agreement for his daughter to wed the son of his bitter enemy, Helghi. Wulhere’s relationship with his wife is strained due to his infidelity with a mistress who gives birth to their child. As he struggles to balance internal conflict within his family, an ill wind blows over England as Lord Alfgar allies with the Norsemen and Gruffudd to war against King Edward for political advantage. Harold manipulates Alfgar’s son, Burghred, to betray his father a second time. Loyalties are tested and betrayals revealed in a chest game for political power.
Author Paula Lofting weaves heartfelt personal tales into the broad political landscape of historical figures who drive events leading up to the Battle of Hastings. The story is told from various points of view to give a broader historical context, but the frequent changes in perspective sometimes makes it difficult to transition from one storyline to another. The narrative works best when it focuses on Wulhere’s struggles with his family and adversary, Helghi. Lofting masterfully captures Wulhere’s raw emotions of love, betrayal, and loss in his life journey as a noble warrior and family man. There are some poignant moments when his children’s lives are caught up in the political whirlwind of those in power. Burghred is also another engaging character with whom I could empathize with his conflicting loyalties to King Edward and his father, Alfgar. However, there a few scenes that did not add significantly to the plot which, in my opinion, could have been deleted to make the narrative leaner.
The battle scenes are riveting and some of the best I’ve read. This is where the different perspectives of the various characters work best to capture the logistics of the battlefield and the unfolding tragedy. The everyday life in medieval England is brought to life with impeccable detail based on the author’s extensive research. The glossary of places and language used in the book were extra bonuses. It would have been helpful to have a list of characters highlighting their historical significance and their relationships with other characters. There were a few grammatical errors, but these didn’t detract from the story.
The Wolf Banner is a multi-layered, epic saga set toward the end of Anglo-Saxon rule in medieval England with memorable characters, realistic depiction of middle ages lifestyle, political intrigue, and gripping battle scenes. Recommended.
March 11, 2021
Here I am again ready to review "The Wolf Banner," the second book in the "Sons of the Wolf" series. Lofting did not disappoint and proved her writing skills yet again. I opened her second book (and let me say after finishing the first I immediately rushed to order the second!) and found myself pulled in the 11th century with no other choice but to fight alongside her characters and witness their personal stories as they unraveled in these historically beautiful (yet ruthless) times of Anglo-Saxon England where honor, duty, power, and survival fought like rabid dogs. In this second book, we meet again our beloved protagonists Wulfhere, Thegn of Horstede, and his lively family as they face the issues brought on by their family feud with Helghi Of Gorde, and the turmoil created by the belligerent Aelfgar, Earl Of Mercia, and his two allies the welsh king Gruffydd ap Llewelyn and the Norwegian leader Magnus Haraldsson, son of Harald Hardrada. We also meet Aelfgar's son, Burghred Of Mercia, yet another man struggling with the expectations, needs, and wants of the time that always seems to come at a great cost. We also have the pleasure to spend some time with the brilliant Harold Godwinson as he also struggles between family and politics under the rule of King Edward. The eleventh century is an unfair and difficult world for all heroes and villains alike, and Lofting has a way to present characters in such a way that even a villain is worthy of the reader's compassion or understanding. The battles! We must talk of the battles! If like me you also enjoy reading well-written, emotional, in-depth (super juicy) battle scenes you are in for a double-chocolate cake! Lofting writes what she knows extremely well, her world is authentic and so are her battles! The fighting techniques used in both of her books are well researched (the author is a re-enactor!) and it all just feels right and realistic. I could hear the squishing of blood and mud under my boots, I could smell the putrid air, I could feel the sweat trickle down my cheeks. Astounding! Lofting's writing is sincere, and she doesn't recur to needless embellishments, she writes in the voice of a medieval village's scop and you just want to sit and listen. I also appreciate the length of her books! Some reviewers lamented her books were too long because of too much info-dumping. I find myself in disagreement with these readers as I am perfectly happy with their length. It takes skill as a writer to squish together a story and history without giving too much information and too little story. As a history lover, I feel as though the information is never enough, hence I am perfectly happy when a historical fiction writer willingly gives a load of juicy information pertinent to the historical period in question, and all while keeping you latched on to the story, like a suckling lamb to his mother. I am so glad I found her world, and her characters, and now I find myself missing them and wanting for more. Luckily Lofting is writing "Wolf's Bane," the third book in the series, and I know I will be pre-ordering it whenever it will be available. I can't wait! Dear Paula Lofting, I don't mean to rush you but... please hurry!!! 4.5 STARS
November 9, 2024
'The Wolf Banner' follows on from 'Sons of the Wolf,' spinning the happenings of 1058 into a compelling saga of betrayal.
Wulfhere and his family still take center stage in the narrative, as his blood feud with Helghi escalates to new heights. His children find themselves further enmeshed in the disintegration of his marriage and his failings as a father, slowly coming to realize that Wulfhere is not just the courageous hero the scops sing about, but a deeply flawed man. Wulfhere's pain and the struggles faced by Ealdgytha, Tovi, Winflaed, and the twins kept me rapt, turning the pages to discover what was going to happen next.
Additionally, Burghred, son of Alfgar, steps up to take a more prominent role in the narrative. Reading the author's notes at the end of the book was fascinating, as the plot of Burghred's intrigue and double betrayal, causing Alfgar to be outlawed once again from the king's court before rejoining it, is largely of the author's invention. The sources of the time give very little, aside from mentioning that the story is 'too tedious to tell.' Lofting took the precious little given to her by the historical record and told a story anything but tedious! Burghred's danger and daring escape from Wales, the involvement of the Norse in Alfgar's plotting, Burghred's desperate attempt to rally the men of Mercia, and the fictional siege of Scrobbesbyrig all combine to form a thrilling, plausible account of what could have transpired in 1058.
I find myself thoroughly immersed in Lofting's vivid portrait of Saxon England, and I very much look forward to seeing where she takes us next in the series' third installment!
Wulfhere and his family still take center stage in the narrative, as his blood feud with Helghi escalates to new heights. His children find themselves further enmeshed in the disintegration of his marriage and his failings as a father, slowly coming to realize that Wulfhere is not just the courageous hero the scops sing about, but a deeply flawed man. Wulfhere's pain and the struggles faced by Ealdgytha, Tovi, Winflaed, and the twins kept me rapt, turning the pages to discover what was going to happen next.
Additionally, Burghred, son of Alfgar, steps up to take a more prominent role in the narrative. Reading the author's notes at the end of the book was fascinating, as the plot of Burghred's intrigue and double betrayal, causing Alfgar to be outlawed once again from the king's court before rejoining it, is largely of the author's invention. The sources of the time give very little, aside from mentioning that the story is 'too tedious to tell.' Lofting took the precious little given to her by the historical record and told a story anything but tedious! Burghred's danger and daring escape from Wales, the involvement of the Norse in Alfgar's plotting, Burghred's desperate attempt to rally the men of Mercia, and the fictional siege of Scrobbesbyrig all combine to form a thrilling, plausible account of what could have transpired in 1058.
I find myself thoroughly immersed in Lofting's vivid portrait of Saxon England, and I very much look forward to seeing where she takes us next in the series' third installment!
December 16, 2020
As you would expect from a book that is set just before The Battle of Hastings, everyone is wondering who the next King of England will be. The king favours the Godwins, but they are not the only family who can lay claim to the throne. The political climate was masterfully portrayed and really set the scene for this story.
Although there are many characters in this book, the author does favour Wulfhere. Wulfhere really struggles throughout this novel, although some of his difficulties on the domestic front are due to his affair. His treatment of his wife was deplorable, but she was also no innocent participant in this dysfunctional family. Despite Wulfhere’s terrible betrayal I found it very difficult to sympathies with Ealdgytha for she was just so bitter, and although I could understand her depression there was no excuse for the way she treated her children. Her attitude, particularly towards her daughter in her hour of need, was deplorable.
This is an enjoyable story, but with hindsight, I do wish I had started with book one because I felt I had missed crucial parts of the story. Regardless of this, this is a novel that I would certainly recommend.
*I received a copy of this book from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
August 8, 2019
The history seems accurate (not a time frame I know much about) and she is a competent writer. The plot was compelling: family problems and bad neighbors and kept my interest. The battle scenes were gory as expected.
However, way too much exposition--more telling than showing. But I'm not sure how else an author could explicate these complicated political moves. It is a hard time to get our minds around, as few of these characters and events are really well known, except for those that figure prominently in the Conquest, like Harold Godwinson or Gruffayd of Wales.
And what I considered language anachronisms ("fight one's corner") and characters who would fit comfortably in our century were off putting. Most of the main characters seemed too modern in their thoughts and actions.
However, as a peek into that turbulent time through one man's family, the book is worth a read, even if the prose doesn't sing or the characters remain long in our memories.
However, way too much exposition--more telling than showing. But I'm not sure how else an author could explicate these complicated political moves. It is a hard time to get our minds around, as few of these characters and events are really well known, except for those that figure prominently in the Conquest, like Harold Godwinson or Gruffayd of Wales.
And what I considered language anachronisms ("fight one's corner") and characters who would fit comfortably in our century were off putting. Most of the main characters seemed too modern in their thoughts and actions.
However, as a peek into that turbulent time through one man's family, the book is worth a read, even if the prose doesn't sing or the characters remain long in our memories.
July 7, 2017
I didn't read the first book in this series, but I'm definitely going to go back and pick it up! This book can certainly stand alone, but I'm definitely interested in reading the first one. This is a page turner! Also can't wait to read the third in the series.
February 10, 2018
Great story
I started with the first book in this series a Christmas gift and became so invested in the story I moved right to book two. I can't wait for the next book to see what happens next.
I started with the first book in this series a Christmas gift and became so invested in the story I moved right to book two. I can't wait for the next book to see what happens next.
May 16, 2018
History, heartbreak, battle, intrigue...
What an exciting adventure Paula has taken me on!Loved it!! The battle scenes were enthralling, the family scenes heartbreaking. Very well written.
What an exciting adventure Paula has taken me on!Loved it!! The battle scenes were enthralling, the family scenes heartbreaking. Very well written.
January 19, 2018
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"One thing Ms Lofting does very well is create believable detail of time, place and action"
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"One thing Ms Lofting does very well is create believable detail of time, place and action"
March 13, 2018
Fast paced book with lots of twists and turns. I liked the characters and the battle scenes.
April 18, 2018
We are proud to announce that THE WOLF BANNER (Sons of The Wolf #2) by Paula Lofting is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!
May 4, 2018
Excellent read
Enjoyed both book 1 and book 2 , looking forward to book 3 . Love this part of history before the Normans come . Well researched, and written .
Enjoyed both book 1 and book 2 , looking forward to book 3 . Love this part of history before the Normans come . Well researched, and written .
October 13, 2016
The Wolf Banner is the second book by author Paula Lofting. wolfbannerSet in a period I knew little about before diving in –the decade or two leading up to the Battle of Hastings in 1066, or the Norman Conquest — this book along with its forerunner, Sons of the Wolf, tells the stories of several families of Englalond (England) embroiled in the age-old struggle for land, power, and family honor leading up to the end of English rule and the coming of the Normans.
Sons of the Wolf focuses primarily on the family of a thegn (a retainer of the king ranking below an ealdorman, what would eventually come to be known as an earl) of Edward. Wulfhere, the thegn, as he struggles to balance family life with the duties he owes the king, risking much and making many mistakes along the way. These mistakes impact not only the economic future of his family, but also its relational well-being. His children are growing, and as they do, each makes his or her own choices which bring a parallel future ramification. These choices build the plot, propelling the story alongside the historical events.
The Wolf Banner picks up where Sons left off. The storylines of Wulfhere, his wife, and their children is continued, but we also meet new characters whose stories move the action to other parts of England and Wales, revealing the complexities of the politics of this era through the shifting of power and control, and the subterfuge and greed that creates it.
Lofting’s first book was good, but like most second novels, The Wolf Banner shows a maturing of the author’s writing. The plot is more complex, the pace is faster, the characters deeper and more nuanced. Among these characters, there are the basest of military men, politicians with single-focus, fathers who use their children solely to meet their selfish ends, laid-back fathers who shrug their shoulders and trust their children to wyrd, flawed people, guilt-ridden people, boys who want to be men yet don’t know how, fickle and flighty women, emotionally strong women who carry those around them, mothers who fail their children, mothers who do what they can for their children with little success and few resources… all in all we see a vast canvas of personalities and maturities, some who gain ground and others who lose it. I often say that a strongly developed character can carry any book. Had there been little to no plot in this book (and there was), I still would have enjoyed it for the sake of the individuals filling the pages alone.
The pace of the book is good. The first 40% or so continues in a similar cadence to the first book. Around this point the reader is left with some closure regarding many of the earlier events, and this was satisfactory. But then… look out. The pace picks up, and the book turns into a page-turner with non-stop action and adventure. Lofting’s battle scenes are magnificent, leaving little to the imagination. Readers who are a bit squeamish may want to skim through these as the battle gore is somewhat graphic at times. Yet even in the violence we find an illustration, and Thegn Wulfhere capitalizes on this as he implores a group of young men on the eve of battle not rest on false bravado or to glory in the upcoming death-giving and gore. He relates the terror of battle in full color so they proceed with eyes wide open, harnessing their energy to survive rather than dissipate their energy through ignorant bravery as untried young men are wont to do.
Lovers of historical fiction who enjoy thoroughly drawn characters along with their action and adventure will not be disappointed by this book. I enjoyed the story, but even more so did I enjoy exploring the thoughts and motivations of the characters behind it. Even though I know the history and what awaits these characters in their literary futures, I eagerly await the next book, The Wolf’s Bane, coming in 2017.
Sons of the Wolf focuses primarily on the family of a thegn (a retainer of the king ranking below an ealdorman, what would eventually come to be known as an earl) of Edward. Wulfhere, the thegn, as he struggles to balance family life with the duties he owes the king, risking much and making many mistakes along the way. These mistakes impact not only the economic future of his family, but also its relational well-being. His children are growing, and as they do, each makes his or her own choices which bring a parallel future ramification. These choices build the plot, propelling the story alongside the historical events.
The Wolf Banner picks up where Sons left off. The storylines of Wulfhere, his wife, and their children is continued, but we also meet new characters whose stories move the action to other parts of England and Wales, revealing the complexities of the politics of this era through the shifting of power and control, and the subterfuge and greed that creates it.
Lofting’s first book was good, but like most second novels, The Wolf Banner shows a maturing of the author’s writing. The plot is more complex, the pace is faster, the characters deeper and more nuanced. Among these characters, there are the basest of military men, politicians with single-focus, fathers who use their children solely to meet their selfish ends, laid-back fathers who shrug their shoulders and trust their children to wyrd, flawed people, guilt-ridden people, boys who want to be men yet don’t know how, fickle and flighty women, emotionally strong women who carry those around them, mothers who fail their children, mothers who do what they can for their children with little success and few resources… all in all we see a vast canvas of personalities and maturities, some who gain ground and others who lose it. I often say that a strongly developed character can carry any book. Had there been little to no plot in this book (and there was), I still would have enjoyed it for the sake of the individuals filling the pages alone.
The pace of the book is good. The first 40% or so continues in a similar cadence to the first book. Around this point the reader is left with some closure regarding many of the earlier events, and this was satisfactory. But then… look out. The pace picks up, and the book turns into a page-turner with non-stop action and adventure. Lofting’s battle scenes are magnificent, leaving little to the imagination. Readers who are a bit squeamish may want to skim through these as the battle gore is somewhat graphic at times. Yet even in the violence we find an illustration, and Thegn Wulfhere capitalizes on this as he implores a group of young men on the eve of battle not rest on false bravado or to glory in the upcoming death-giving and gore. He relates the terror of battle in full color so they proceed with eyes wide open, harnessing their energy to survive rather than dissipate their energy through ignorant bravery as untried young men are wont to do.
Lovers of historical fiction who enjoy thoroughly drawn characters along with their action and adventure will not be disappointed by this book. I enjoyed the story, but even more so did I enjoy exploring the thoughts and motivations of the characters behind it. Even though I know the history and what awaits these characters in their literary futures, I eagerly await the next book, The Wolf’s Bane, coming in 2017.
December 8, 2016
Starting this book was like meeting old friends again; so happy was I to be back at Horstede with Wolfhere and his family. However, life back in the time just a few years before the Battle of Hastings was just as hard and unfair as life seems to some today, although I’d like to see today’s people coping with the kind of life as it was then. It was a hard life, everyone had their daily toil, even children, and girls as young as ten were given in marriage, often to men much older than themselves and were often bargaining tools or used to set up alliances.
Above the hardship of the life, there was still time for tricks, fun and laughter, for love and friendship.
The author’s skills at writing battle scenes is to be admired; I’m sure I couldn’t do it, which means I’m not likely to include a battle scene in any of my books! Obviously, much research into this time period has been undertaken and so the narration is strong and authentic and makes the reader believe, sometimes in things that possibly never took place at all.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book; the characters maintained their personas as portrayed in the first book and there is no part where there is not some action to keep the reader consistently engaged. I look forward to the third book!
Above the hardship of the life, there was still time for tricks, fun and laughter, for love and friendship.
The author’s skills at writing battle scenes is to be admired; I’m sure I couldn’t do it, which means I’m not likely to include a battle scene in any of my books! Obviously, much research into this time period has been undertaken and so the narration is strong and authentic and makes the reader believe, sometimes in things that possibly never took place at all.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book; the characters maintained their personas as portrayed in the first book and there is no part where there is not some action to keep the reader consistently engaged. I look forward to the third book!
November 24, 2020
It seems that just about everyone wanted to rule England...the French, the Godwins, Edward and his heirs, the Danes. It also seems that anything that could go wrong for Wulfhere does go wrong. In the sequel to Sons of the Wolf, the author pulls out all the stops and delivers a scintillating run up to the cataclysmic events coming in 1066. Wulfhere is a prime example of the range of emotions the author uses to bring the reader into the mindsets of the main and bit players in this chaotic, uncertain time. A champion fighter, respected thegn and loyal servant to the King, Wulfhere endures much turmoil and suffering and has to dig deep to survive everything thrown at him. The author also gives the reader a penetrating glimpse of the dance between the parties vying for power; be it the throne of England or the Earldom of Mercia. Duplicity, underhanded dealings, and the pragmatic approach to the politics of the day are dealt with in an informative and entertaining fashion. A page turning delight awaits, dear reader. 5 stars
March 4, 2021
Great follow up to book 1 great read well written great characters book flows Well from book 1 to book 2 well done loving the book glad I found this author wonderful writer & great period of our history. The year is 1056 and The king & Earls continue to turn England into Turmoil & open rebellion. Paula has managed to write a great story on the run up to the dramatic events before 1066 within the book we have Wulfhere a great fighter and allied to Earl Harold Godwinson (as we know the future king) Wulfhere story of love betrayal & blood fued are still very active within the tale of this book which is woven in to make an excellent read. This book has it all political intrigue, power struggle , action , love, anguish, death all feed through the book, well done. A truly gritty, historical read leaving you wanting more. A great sequel.
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