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The Bernicia Chronicles #3
Blood and Blade
635AD. Anglo-Saxon Britain. A gripping, action-packed historical thriller and third instalment in The Bernicia Chronicles. Perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell.
Oswald is now King of Northumbria. However, his plans for further alliances and conquests are quickly thrown into disarray when his wedding to a princess of Wessex is interrupted by news of a Pictish uprising.
Rushing north, Oswald leaves Beobrand to escort the young queen to her new home. Their path is fraught with danger and uncertainty, Beobrand must try to unravel secrets and lies if they are to survive.
Meanwhile, old enemies are closing in, seeking brutal revenge. Beobrand will give his blood and blade in service to his king, but will that be enough to avert disaster and save his kith and kin from the evil forces that surround them?
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2016
731 people are currently reading
526 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Harffy
35 books746 followersMatthew Harffy is the author of the action-packed series of historical novels, the Bernicia Chronicles.
Matthew’s 2020 novel, Wolf of Wessex, was his first departure from the seventh century. Taking place a couple of centuries later in the early years of the Viking Age, it tells the tale of ageing warrior, Dunston, as he tries to find a man’s vicious murderers, keep the victim’s orphaned daughter alive and uncover the dark secret that threatens to plunge the kingdom into war. The book was very well received, with The Times calling it “a treat of a book”.
His A Time for Swords series is set at the dawn of the Viking Age. It follows the adventures of monk-turned-warrior, Hunlaf, who witnesses the first attack on the monastery of Lindisfarne and feels compelled to pick up a blade and organise the defence against the Norse raiders.
Before becoming a full-time author, Matthew worked in the IT industry, where he spent most of his days writing and editing, just not the words that most interested him! Prior to that, he worked in Spain as an English teacher and translator.
Matthew lives in Wiltshire, England, with his wife and their two daughters.
Matthew’s 2020 novel, Wolf of Wessex, was his first departure from the seventh century. Taking place a couple of centuries later in the early years of the Viking Age, it tells the tale of ageing warrior, Dunston, as he tries to find a man’s vicious murderers, keep the victim’s orphaned daughter alive and uncover the dark secret that threatens to plunge the kingdom into war. The book was very well received, with The Times calling it “a treat of a book”.
His A Time for Swords series is set at the dawn of the Viking Age. It follows the adventures of monk-turned-warrior, Hunlaf, who witnesses the first attack on the monastery of Lindisfarne and feels compelled to pick up a blade and organise the defence against the Norse raiders.
Before becoming a full-time author, Matthew worked in the IT industry, where he spent most of his days writing and editing, just not the words that most interested him! Prior to that, he worked in Spain as an English teacher and translator.
Matthew lives in Wiltshire, England, with his wife and their two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
April 17, 2021
This very captivating historical adventure is the 3rd episode of the "Bernicia Chronicles" from the formidable author, Matthew Harffy.
Story-telling is of a top-notch quality, the hostile atmosphere and pictured landscapes of 7th Century Albion come really lifelike off the pages, and all characters, whether real historical or great fictional, come all vividly to life within this tale of shedding blood, clashing blade, domestic love and brutal death.
Right inside the book you'll find a well-drawn map of Albion in AD 634/635, with Northumbria divided in Bernicia and Deira, and surrounded by Mercia, Gwynedd, Dal Riata, Hibernia and several other kingdoms, while there's also a very informative Place Names list.
At the back of the book the historical details concerning this great adventure are superbly documented and explained by the author.
Before I come to my review, I want to say that the lay-out and the quality of the stories within these books are quite similar to the Uthred series by Bernard Cornwell.
This book starts off in the year AD 634 and heading fast towards AD 635, and we find our main protagonist, Beobrand of Ubbanford, at first at home and besieged by Picts, and all that in an attempt by Torran mac Nathair to get his revenge for the deaths of his brothers.
When summoned by King Oswald to accompany him to Wessex to witness the marriage between him and Princess Cyneburg, daughter of King Cynegils of Wessex, Beobrand and his men, Acennan and Garr f.e., are taken and confronted with a web of intrigue and double-dealing from their Lord and King.
When Cyneburg gets abducted and brought to Mercia by Princeling Eowa, son of Pybba and brother of King Penda, Beobrand's friend Athelstan gets killed, and so Beobrand, his men, and Wulfgar of Wessex, brother of Cyneburg will set off in pursuit of Cyneburg, and only after beating Eowa in battle the truth will come out about their flight, and the resulting problems will get even worse when they have to bring Eowa to King Oswald and Cyneburg to Eoferwic.
What is to follow is an intriguing and marvellous historical adventure where the cunning and cruel King Oswald will come to the surface in his dealings with the likes of King Cynegils of Wessex, Princeling Eowa of Mercia, just before at the decisive battle at Din Eydin (Edinburgh), and even also with the lucky Beobrand of Ubbanford, while the Princeling Oswiu will show his true nature with his sadistic and devious acts, and doing all that in their determined bid to become the sole King of a united Albion.
Very much recommended, for this is an excellent continuation of this great series, look forward to read the next one, but to come back to this I want to call it: "A Most Impressive Blood & Blade Act"!
Story-telling is of a top-notch quality, the hostile atmosphere and pictured landscapes of 7th Century Albion come really lifelike off the pages, and all characters, whether real historical or great fictional, come all vividly to life within this tale of shedding blood, clashing blade, domestic love and brutal death.
Right inside the book you'll find a well-drawn map of Albion in AD 634/635, with Northumbria divided in Bernicia and Deira, and surrounded by Mercia, Gwynedd, Dal Riata, Hibernia and several other kingdoms, while there's also a very informative Place Names list.
At the back of the book the historical details concerning this great adventure are superbly documented and explained by the author.
Before I come to my review, I want to say that the lay-out and the quality of the stories within these books are quite similar to the Uthred series by Bernard Cornwell.
This book starts off in the year AD 634 and heading fast towards AD 635, and we find our main protagonist, Beobrand of Ubbanford, at first at home and besieged by Picts, and all that in an attempt by Torran mac Nathair to get his revenge for the deaths of his brothers.
When summoned by King Oswald to accompany him to Wessex to witness the marriage between him and Princess Cyneburg, daughter of King Cynegils of Wessex, Beobrand and his men, Acennan and Garr f.e., are taken and confronted with a web of intrigue and double-dealing from their Lord and King.
When Cyneburg gets abducted and brought to Mercia by Princeling Eowa, son of Pybba and brother of King Penda, Beobrand's friend Athelstan gets killed, and so Beobrand, his men, and Wulfgar of Wessex, brother of Cyneburg will set off in pursuit of Cyneburg, and only after beating Eowa in battle the truth will come out about their flight, and the resulting problems will get even worse when they have to bring Eowa to King Oswald and Cyneburg to Eoferwic.
What is to follow is an intriguing and marvellous historical adventure where the cunning and cruel King Oswald will come to the surface in his dealings with the likes of King Cynegils of Wessex, Princeling Eowa of Mercia, just before at the decisive battle at Din Eydin (Edinburgh), and even also with the lucky Beobrand of Ubbanford, while the Princeling Oswiu will show his true nature with his sadistic and devious acts, and doing all that in their determined bid to become the sole King of a united Albion.
Very much recommended, for this is an excellent continuation of this great series, look forward to read the next one, but to come back to this I want to call it: "A Most Impressive Blood & Blade Act"!
Read
June 28, 2022I am back to following Beobrand in this third instalment of The Bernicia Chronicles! It has been a while, but it is great to dive into another Matthew Harffy work, as he is fast becoming one of my favourite historical fiction writers.
It was great to be back following Beobrand once again in this third instalment of The Bernicia Chronicles. In Blood and Blade, which is a great title, we have a number of new threads introduced, but also a continuation of a number of the conflict and plots from the first two in the series. Matthew Harffy hits a great balance between these in my opinion, as he also does with the character growth, particularly Beobrand. Our central protagonist is asserting himself as a more authoritative figure, but in a believable way where he makes many a mistake.
Another entertaining instalment in this historical series that I am looking forward to continuing!
Full Review to Come
It was great to be back following Beobrand once again in this third instalment of The Bernicia Chronicles. In Blood and Blade, which is a great title, we have a number of new threads introduced, but also a continuation of a number of the conflict and plots from the first two in the series. Matthew Harffy hits a great balance between these in my opinion, as he also does with the character growth, particularly Beobrand. Our central protagonist is asserting himself as a more authoritative figure, but in a believable way where he makes many a mistake.
Another entertaining instalment in this historical series that I am looking forward to continuing!
Full Review to Come
December 2, 2016
The Bernicia Chronicles continue with Matthew Harffy’s third book Blood and Blade. It’s always fun to get back into the lives of familiar characters, that whole get to know them period is over and we can get straight to the meat and potatoes of the story. That being said, Blood and Blade is part of a series, it really should be read in order, as each new book builds off of the previous.
Despite his flaws, and he has many, Beobrand is a likeable character. Harffy has created an intricately balanced character. Beobrand knows the right thing to do, he wants to do it, but sometimes his anger and thoughts of vengeance take over and, well, all of that good and noble stuff goes down the drain. It makes him real. I much prefer this kind of protagonist than some perfect hero who always does the right thing without emotion.
So, here we are now at book three; what can I say without giving key events away from this story or the previous two? Well, first of all, I’ve read the three books, Harffy has kept me coming back for more. He has created an exciting world where the difference between good and evil is based simply on perspective. It is a world of violence and inequality and one that is driven by revenge. Really it’s not all that different from our own world.
If you’ve been reading along with The Bernicia Chronicles, you definitely want to read Blood and Blade to see how Beobrand copes with his loss. If you haven’t read book one, The Serpent Sword, hang on tight, you’re in for a wild ride.
Despite his flaws, and he has many, Beobrand is a likeable character. Harffy has created an intricately balanced character. Beobrand knows the right thing to do, he wants to do it, but sometimes his anger and thoughts of vengeance take over and, well, all of that good and noble stuff goes down the drain. It makes him real. I much prefer this kind of protagonist than some perfect hero who always does the right thing without emotion.
So, here we are now at book three; what can I say without giving key events away from this story or the previous two? Well, first of all, I’ve read the three books, Harffy has kept me coming back for more. He has created an exciting world where the difference between good and evil is based simply on perspective. It is a world of violence and inequality and one that is driven by revenge. Really it’s not all that different from our own world.
If you’ve been reading along with The Bernicia Chronicles, you definitely want to read Blood and Blade to see how Beobrand copes with his loss. If you haven’t read book one, The Serpent Sword, hang on tight, you’re in for a wild ride.
December 1, 2016
I had the opportunity to read an advance copy of Matthew's new Bernicia Chronicles novel a few weeks back, which pleased me immensely, as his work had been on my radar for some time and I'd been meaning to find time to fit in his first book.
I'll say at the outset that Dark Age, Anglo-Saxon Britain is not my era of choice and an author has to work hard to draw and keep my attention. I have discarded a dozen Dark Age novels unfinished. Kudos to Harffy then that I stayed riveted to Blood and Blade right to the end, especially given that this is the third book in his series and I had been dropped in the deep end, unfamiliar with the characters and the ongoing story arc.
One of the strengths of the novel is the characters. The lead, a little like Cornwell's Uhtred, is a little straightforward for my taste, but that works well in the book, as he becomes the linchpin around which the fascinating cast of supporting characters work, and some of those secondary cast really did intrigue and delight me.
The tale ranges across the length of England, from Northumberland down to Essex and Wessex, then back up to the north and beyond into the wilds of southern Scotland where it reaches a breakneck, action-packed conclusion, resolving a long-term thread that has clearly been developing in earlier books.
The pace is good, the characterisation excellent, the writing absorbing. All in all a very good read.
I'll say at the outset that Dark Age, Anglo-Saxon Britain is not my era of choice and an author has to work hard to draw and keep my attention. I have discarded a dozen Dark Age novels unfinished. Kudos to Harffy then that I stayed riveted to Blood and Blade right to the end, especially given that this is the third book in his series and I had been dropped in the deep end, unfamiliar with the characters and the ongoing story arc.
One of the strengths of the novel is the characters. The lead, a little like Cornwell's Uhtred, is a little straightforward for my taste, but that works well in the book, as he becomes the linchpin around which the fascinating cast of supporting characters work, and some of those secondary cast really did intrigue and delight me.
The tale ranges across the length of England, from Northumberland down to Essex and Wessex, then back up to the north and beyond into the wilds of southern Scotland where it reaches a breakneck, action-packed conclusion, resolving a long-term thread that has clearly been developing in earlier books.
The pace is good, the characterisation excellent, the writing absorbing. All in all a very good read.
April 12, 2020
This series makes for a great read. The fate of Beobrand and those who follow and support him will find him traveling north and south and spending unpleasant time on waterways at times going from one battle to another in the service of his lord and King Oswald. He never has a long enough respite to heal from various battle injuries.
In addition to what his king demands of him the witch still lives and weaves her plans of retribution but does not succeed in her continual plans to bring about his death.
Bloody conflict abounds. Oswald is baptized in Christ and married.
Kindle Unlimited
In addition to what his king demands of him the witch still lives and weaves her plans of retribution but does not succeed in her continual plans to bring about his death.
Bloody conflict abounds. Oswald is baptized in Christ and married.
Kindle Unlimited
November 15, 2016
This is book three in The Bernicia Chronicles and the story of a 7th century warrior, Beobrand. When I read book 2, I said at the end of my review that I was eagerly anticipating the 3rd. The author did not disappoint me. Skillfully intertwining fact with some robust and entertaining fiction, Mr. Harffy takes the reader on an interesting ride through Northumbria, Wessex, Mercia and the land of The Picts. This was a violent and confusing period where warriors still fought for their lords and still sought vengeance for any slights or misdeeds; where the old gods were beginning to lose their sway over the populace as kings converted to Christ and looked for alliances with other Christ minded rulers. Beobrand is now a renowned warrior in the service of King Oswald and the lord of his own land and gesithas (his personal retinue of warriors), but he still has many enemies seeking to do him harm. And so, we have a page turning affair redolent in the violence of the age but one also of plot shifts, surprises and new forays into love; reluctant, unexpected, dangerous and forbidden love. Give yourself a treat, dear reader, if you haven't started this series, then you owe it to yourself to do so. The Dark Age of Albion awaits you. 5 stars
January 3, 2018
Richly evocative of an age that can appear more legend than history, this novel has Saxon warriors marching across its pages to combat Picts, Mercians, old enemies and new, while the women face battles of their own. Vigorous, well-researched historical fiction.
February 25, 2023
i do love being back with Beobrand and his warriors. again Matthew Harffy manages to capture the time and people with so much heart and soul.
November 7, 2016
I read and write historical fiction and spend much of my time inhabiting long ago times, some of them fascinating, many of them downright dangerous. In the whole parade of best and worst of times few come more horrible than the England of 635.
Life was, in the main, nasty, brutish and short and Beobrand is a character who fits the times yet transcends them.
Blood and Blade is the third book in Matthew Harffy’s superlative Bernicia Chronicles. His hero, Beobrand, is a heroic warrior who is the plaything of gods, kings, women and bitter enemies. The fates delight in throwing relentless challenge, danger and grim luck at him. He is bruised, beaten and maimed yet he refuses to admit defeat.
Harffy is one of the finest historical novelists around. He creates thrilling stories, full of twists, with memorable characters gripped by traumatic events. His is especially skilful at immersing the reader in what it must have been like to live in these ancient times. He does this not only in the physical descriptions of landscape, warfare, wounds and death. He also takes us into the minds of our ancestors, showing that some things like love and hate are eternal, while others, like a man’s relationship with his lord and the spiritual aspects of life, are more changeable.
Matthew Harffy shines a bright light on these distant days. Treat yourself to this book and the others in the series. You will not be disappointed.
April 21, 2018
The saga of Breobrand continues with this third book of The Bernicia Chronicles. Beobrand's wife, Sunneva, has died and he believes he truly is cursed. His life is one of turmoil and warfare as King Oswald's realm is constantly threatened by rival kingdoms, forcing Breobrand to take up his sword and shield and trek to enemy lands. He longs for peace and time to raise his infant son, Octa, but his wyrd doesn't allow it.
For those who relish battle scenes described in gruesome realism, this is the series for you. But there is much more to these stories than war and death. These characters have deep feelings for their families and friends, they love and hate and feel pain much as the people of modern times. I am thoroughly enjoying this series and have already begun Book 4. Good stuff.
For those who relish battle scenes described in gruesome realism, this is the series for you. But there is much more to these stories than war and death. These characters have deep feelings for their families and friends, they love and hate and feel pain much as the people of modern times. I am thoroughly enjoying this series and have already begun Book 4. Good stuff.
February 24, 2023
another good story of Beobrand’s exploits
Beobrand is making a name for himself, and getting known for his good luck. He obviously has tremendous skills, but King Oswald seems to believe his Wyrd is connected to luck. Nelda is still out there. Whenever she is around, I get goosebumps. She really is a cunning woman and someone to be reckoned with. Who knows what she is out to with the two royals.
Beo is surrounded by good men. But he still yearns for vengeance. He is not satisfied to just remain home, although he sometimes thinks it. He is made for the battle. In fact all the battles are spectacular and epic in scope. All your senses come into play: sight of huge armies and horses; hear the cries and shouts of warriors; feel the cold in the air and the blood rush of battle; taste the grimy sweat and mud; and smell the aftermath of men’s death.
The ending did feel a little sudden. But it ended at an important part of Beo’s life.
More riches, more lands, more warriors.
Beobrand is making a name for himself, and getting known for his good luck. He obviously has tremendous skills, but King Oswald seems to believe his Wyrd is connected to luck. Nelda is still out there. Whenever she is around, I get goosebumps. She really is a cunning woman and someone to be reckoned with. Who knows what she is out to with the two royals.
Beo is surrounded by good men. But he still yearns for vengeance. He is not satisfied to just remain home, although he sometimes thinks it. He is made for the battle. In fact all the battles are spectacular and epic in scope. All your senses come into play: sight of huge armies and horses; hear the cries and shouts of warriors; feel the cold in the air and the blood rush of battle; taste the grimy sweat and mud; and smell the aftermath of men’s death.
The ending did feel a little sudden. But it ended at an important part of Beo’s life.
More riches, more lands, more warriors.
August 14, 2019
Well, well, well. Guess who is buying the three remaining novels to this amazing series?
August 30, 2023
Love this series, you have passion , precision you have fighting, you have battle all set in historical setting with great characters! If you love Cornwell.. then Harffy is the right choice!!!
December 4, 2018
A thrilling story set in 7th century England, where rival Anglo-Saxon kingdoms fight for dominance, alliances must be forged and war is always inevitable. This is every bit as good as Bernard Cornwells more celebrated Last Kingdom series, I actually prefer Matthews novels as they are set in a period of Anglo-Saxon England which most fascinate me, especially the Pagan King of Mercia, Penda, who is starting to become more of a growing presence in this series. Watch out Oswald.
January 1, 2017
Great read!
Blood and Blade is third book in Bernicia series and it's a great read. I have not read the other two but Harffy does a good job of introducing new readers to the series and taking them along on a well-written adventure with vivid characters and chilling action. Well done!
Blood and Blade is third book in Bernicia series and it's a great read. I have not read the other two but Harffy does a good job of introducing new readers to the series and taking them along on a well-written adventure with vivid characters and chilling action. Well done!
November 11, 2016
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley and Aria.
This third novel in the Bernicia Chronicles starts off with an encounter between Beobrand and his arch enemy, Torran. Not only does this initial chapter set the tone for the historical time in which this story is set (635 A.D., Albion) but it also brings the reader immediately into the life and death struggles between the Saxons and the Picts. Beobrand is still recovering from an arrow wound in his leg received from Torran in their last meeting plus another healing wound which makes it impossible for him to hold his shield. This is fighting hand-to-hand in the Dark Ages.
New readers to the series are artfully drawn into the storyline by writing which includes good information regarding place names and their modern equivalent as well as a map. Author Matthew Harffy was excellent with his portrayal of Beobrand and his struggles with both physical and mental problems. He is trying to reconcile his mourning with his physical attraction to a thrall within his household. I liked the way Harffy didn't make this a main theme which took away focus from the warrior life of Beobrand, but did allow the reader to see how other concerns and distractions filled out his personality. This is definitely not a one dimensional character. Another element in the plot which I found enjoyable was the returning character of Nelda and the mystical aura her malevolence embodied whether she was present at that point in the story or only spoken of and remembered. That touch of magic added so much to the atmosphere and, for me, added to the growing importance of those who believed in the Christ and the monks who practiced those teachings which are so different from the old beliefs.
Beobrand and his men are summoned to attend King Oswald and find that they are going on a trip as escort for Oswald and his brother Oswiu. Oswald has decided to marry the daughter of Cynegils so a trip all the way to Wessex is to be undertaken.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. I began the series here and had no difficulties in understand what had come before in the first two novels even though I had to refer to the place names listing quite often at first. The introduction of the Christian faith and the development of medical advances used by monks is presented in a low key manner and yet it is obvious these things are going to play a great part in the series as it progresses. This is one readers will want to follow because of the historical realism and the character development of not just Beobrand, but all those who contribute to the story and help it move forward.
This third novel in the Bernicia Chronicles starts off with an encounter between Beobrand and his arch enemy, Torran. Not only does this initial chapter set the tone for the historical time in which this story is set (635 A.D., Albion) but it also brings the reader immediately into the life and death struggles between the Saxons and the Picts. Beobrand is still recovering from an arrow wound in his leg received from Torran in their last meeting plus another healing wound which makes it impossible for him to hold his shield. This is fighting hand-to-hand in the Dark Ages.
New readers to the series are artfully drawn into the storyline by writing which includes good information regarding place names and their modern equivalent as well as a map. Author Matthew Harffy was excellent with his portrayal of Beobrand and his struggles with both physical and mental problems. He is trying to reconcile his mourning with his physical attraction to a thrall within his household. I liked the way Harffy didn't make this a main theme which took away focus from the warrior life of Beobrand, but did allow the reader to see how other concerns and distractions filled out his personality. This is definitely not a one dimensional character. Another element in the plot which I found enjoyable was the returning character of Nelda and the mystical aura her malevolence embodied whether she was present at that point in the story or only spoken of and remembered. That touch of magic added so much to the atmosphere and, for me, added to the growing importance of those who believed in the Christ and the monks who practiced those teachings which are so different from the old beliefs.
Beobrand and his men are summoned to attend King Oswald and find that they are going on a trip as escort for Oswald and his brother Oswiu. Oswald has decided to marry the daughter of Cynegils so a trip all the way to Wessex is to be undertaken.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. I began the series here and had no difficulties in understand what had come before in the first two novels even though I had to refer to the place names listing quite often at first. The introduction of the Christian faith and the development of medical advances used by monks is presented in a low key manner and yet it is obvious these things are going to play a great part in the series as it progresses. This is one readers will want to follow because of the historical realism and the character development of not just Beobrand, but all those who contribute to the story and help it move forward.
February 1, 2022
Taking off right where The Cross and the Curse ended, Blood and Blade sees Beobrand head south to Wessex with his king and getting wrapped up in all kinds of mischief along the way.
I enjoyed the traveling storyline as it moves through different parts of England. I might have enjoyed it too much because I found myself inspired to play Total War Thrones of Britannia when I should have been reading. I see this as a testament to how well Matthew Harffy can bring the world of Anglo-Saxon England to life, which is one of the great features of his writing, and one of the things I love most about reading historical fiction: being swept away to a new time and place.
It was great seeing Beobrand mature, as his character develops through his various adventures. Beobrand’s interactions in the king’s court created interesting new personality clashes, particularly around King Oswald’s brother and Eowa, a pince of Mercia, and I’m very curious to see how these new plotlines will be weaved into the next book.
As interesting as the traveling sections are, the last couple of chapters throw things into overdrive with both Beobrand and his enemies showing some exceptional cunning. I read them in a rush.
I’m looking forward to seeing where all this leads in the next book!
I enjoyed the traveling storyline as it moves through different parts of England. I might have enjoyed it too much because I found myself inspired to play Total War Thrones of Britannia when I should have been reading. I see this as a testament to how well Matthew Harffy can bring the world of Anglo-Saxon England to life, which is one of the great features of his writing, and one of the things I love most about reading historical fiction: being swept away to a new time and place.
It was great seeing Beobrand mature, as his character develops through his various adventures. Beobrand’s interactions in the king’s court created interesting new personality clashes, particularly around King Oswald’s brother and Eowa, a pince of Mercia, and I’m very curious to see how these new plotlines will be weaved into the next book.
As interesting as the traveling sections are, the last couple of chapters throw things into overdrive with both Beobrand and his enemies showing some exceptional cunning. I read them in a rush.
I’m looking forward to seeing where all this leads in the next book!
November 12, 2020
I arrived at this one rather late - two volumes too late, and as such did not really connect with the characters which is a shame as this period in English history usually sparks my interest
The novel is set in the time of the turmoil in the Kingdom of Northumbria in the AD7th century - a similar period covered by Edoardo Albert in his trilogy (which I read a roughly the same time - and have the opportunity to read again).
I gave this two (and a half) stars as the writing and plot kept me captivated, and I guess had I read the books in sequence, a higher star rating would have ensued. That doesn't mean that I wont return to these in sequential order (so a second review could be in the future).
The novel is set in the time of the turmoil in the Kingdom of Northumbria in the AD7th century - a similar period covered by Edoardo Albert in his trilogy (which I read a roughly the same time - and have the opportunity to read again).
I gave this two (and a half) stars as the writing and plot kept me captivated, and I guess had I read the books in sequence, a higher star rating would have ensued. That doesn't mean that I wont return to these in sequential order (so a second review could be in the future).
January 4, 2017
Review
In previous reviews i have stated that The Bernicia Chronicles was the gritty reality that Bernard Cornwell wished his Uthred series was. Matthew Harffy with impeccable research into the period, but also into insight into human nature weaves a tale of a troubled man, facing his past, and building a future.
Rest of the review
https://parmenionbooks.wordpress.com/...
In previous reviews i have stated that The Bernicia Chronicles was the gritty reality that Bernard Cornwell wished his Uthred series was. Matthew Harffy with impeccable research into the period, but also into insight into human nature weaves a tale of a troubled man, facing his past, and building a future.
Rest of the review
https://parmenionbooks.wordpress.com/...
February 5, 2017
I am so, so pleased that Matthew has trusted me with early copies of his (three) books (so far) to review. And I am especially pleased to report back from the centre of the Blood and Blade shield-wall, that the third book is his best (so far). That it is was well worth my time and will be well worth your time and money. Money and time, as you'd have to buy it first…OK, you get the picture.
The book, from the first page, the first paragraph even, had me gripped, positively transported back the 1400-odd years, in a thoroughly wonderful explosion of quality writing and gripping story telling. I thought there was a magical, nostalgic feel to the book, to the writing, that made it extraordinarily readable. What I got was not just an affinity, but a total understanding and love for the period that made the story feel effortless, just as if you or I were describing what happened during our day today, for instance. His words paint a much clearer picture of the characters and the period and therefore their motives, than previously. It’s easy to read, easy to place what is happening and who is doing it, without having it cut out of cardboard, as the Danes say. The reader being treated like an adult, I like that in an author.
Blood and Blade is the logical progression from the first two books, and it is much, much more. It is the natural combination of all Matthew has gone through and learnt writing the first two. I’m not saying culmination, as it looks as though, this learning curve continued, he will only get better and better. Blood and Blade is the distillation of all that is good with the first two and, I think, Matthew has really found his stride with this one. It must have been such a good feeling while writing the book - like the first was "I want to write HF." Number two "I think I can write HF." This is both "I can write HF," but also "Hey! I can write!" I think Matthew must have felt it underway. There is an incredible feeling of 'rightness' about the book and a wonderful anticipation that it's only going to get better with subsequent books. Personally, I think it must have been a brave move for a new writer to choose the period after the Romans, but before the Vikings, in which to set their novels. Especially given that Vikings are dish of the day right now and there are several very good authors 'owning' that field at the moment. And Robert Low. The temptation, I'm thinking, must have been to think "Vikings sell!" and dive in. When really, (yet) another Viking book would be filling what we professionals call 'a much-needed gap in the market.' You know it. Choosing this period though, could still have been something of a minefield: Invaders that are called something similar to 'Saxons,’ who later, when we think 'Robin Hood,' are actually 'us.' Are us now, as we're Anglo Saxons, aren't we? So how come we're the foreigners, and we’re calling those who are already here, the 'foreigners'? 'And, why can't they spell 'Odin' right? Why are all their gods not quite Vikings gods?!' Unfortunately, as they say on imbeciles' Facebook status updates, '97% of people won't...' think about where the ideas came from and how they branched off and how they subsequently came together again. They'll just think 'this ain't the bloody Vikings! What's going on?!' However, if you're looking for somewhere to really flex your writing wings, as Matthew is proving beyond doubt, the 6/700s is surely the place to be. Because it's not the Romans, it's not the Vikings and it's not 100% sure what exactly happened in that period. New ideas are evolving all the time, new finds coming to light, and the archaeology is re-writing the history all the time. A very rich period in which to flourish. Clearly a wise decision then, and as Matthew is well on the way to owning this period, and a very lucky decision for us, the discerning Historical Fiction reader.
The character of Beobrand, the ‘main’ character, has matured just nicely. He’s more flesh and blood, more rounded and well on the way to becoming a really solid stand-out hero for the period. Matthew does need to get Beobrand away from his depressed hyena act though. And the standard Hist Fic, 'nothing says Hist Fic more than…' touchstone, of ‘battle calm,’ ‘embracing his anger/rage’ all that nonsense, which has only ever appeared in other Hist Fic novels, all of them - so it must be right! And the bad weather, but that’s a rant for another time… However! This time around, Beobrand aside I’ve particularly enjoyed Matthew’s handling of the development of his ‘minor’ characters, some we knew before, some we meet for the first time. Minor characters can be tricky buggers, when you’ve got an obvious main character you really want to work on and who needs to always be the source of both problems and solutions. They are either foils, back-up, or the guy in the red shirt beamed down with the main characters in Star Trek. You’ve got to have them, but they can’t be too interesting, or they begin to make us think the main man really isn’t up to it. And giving Picts an arse-kicking always goes down well with me, no matter which period a book is set.
A series that is both passionate for the period and the characters and magnetically interesting because of it, full of vivid, clear, exciting writing and, above all, storytelling. I don't know what he's done since starting writing these books, but I do hope he keeps on doing it. Surely, a one word acknowledgement of his talent on the cover can be prised out of Bernard Cornwell sometime soon. And it won't be "Who?"
All my reviews: Speesh Reads
Speesh Reads is also a Facebook Page
The book, from the first page, the first paragraph even, had me gripped, positively transported back the 1400-odd years, in a thoroughly wonderful explosion of quality writing and gripping story telling. I thought there was a magical, nostalgic feel to the book, to the writing, that made it extraordinarily readable. What I got was not just an affinity, but a total understanding and love for the period that made the story feel effortless, just as if you or I were describing what happened during our day today, for instance. His words paint a much clearer picture of the characters and the period and therefore their motives, than previously. It’s easy to read, easy to place what is happening and who is doing it, without having it cut out of cardboard, as the Danes say. The reader being treated like an adult, I like that in an author.
Blood and Blade is the logical progression from the first two books, and it is much, much more. It is the natural combination of all Matthew has gone through and learnt writing the first two. I’m not saying culmination, as it looks as though, this learning curve continued, he will only get better and better. Blood and Blade is the distillation of all that is good with the first two and, I think, Matthew has really found his stride with this one. It must have been such a good feeling while writing the book - like the first was "I want to write HF." Number two "I think I can write HF." This is both "I can write HF," but also "Hey! I can write!" I think Matthew must have felt it underway. There is an incredible feeling of 'rightness' about the book and a wonderful anticipation that it's only going to get better with subsequent books. Personally, I think it must have been a brave move for a new writer to choose the period after the Romans, but before the Vikings, in which to set their novels. Especially given that Vikings are dish of the day right now and there are several very good authors 'owning' that field at the moment. And Robert Low. The temptation, I'm thinking, must have been to think "Vikings sell!" and dive in. When really, (yet) another Viking book would be filling what we professionals call 'a much-needed gap in the market.' You know it. Choosing this period though, could still have been something of a minefield: Invaders that are called something similar to 'Saxons,’ who later, when we think 'Robin Hood,' are actually 'us.' Are us now, as we're Anglo Saxons, aren't we? So how come we're the foreigners, and we’re calling those who are already here, the 'foreigners'? 'And, why can't they spell 'Odin' right? Why are all their gods not quite Vikings gods?!' Unfortunately, as they say on imbeciles' Facebook status updates, '97% of people won't...' think about where the ideas came from and how they branched off and how they subsequently came together again. They'll just think 'this ain't the bloody Vikings! What's going on?!' However, if you're looking for somewhere to really flex your writing wings, as Matthew is proving beyond doubt, the 6/700s is surely the place to be. Because it's not the Romans, it's not the Vikings and it's not 100% sure what exactly happened in that period. New ideas are evolving all the time, new finds coming to light, and the archaeology is re-writing the history all the time. A very rich period in which to flourish. Clearly a wise decision then, and as Matthew is well on the way to owning this period, and a very lucky decision for us, the discerning Historical Fiction reader.
The character of Beobrand, the ‘main’ character, has matured just nicely. He’s more flesh and blood, more rounded and well on the way to becoming a really solid stand-out hero for the period. Matthew does need to get Beobrand away from his depressed hyena act though. And the standard Hist Fic, 'nothing says Hist Fic more than…' touchstone, of ‘battle calm,’ ‘embracing his anger/rage’ all that nonsense, which has only ever appeared in other Hist Fic novels, all of them - so it must be right! And the bad weather, but that’s a rant for another time… However! This time around, Beobrand aside I’ve particularly enjoyed Matthew’s handling of the development of his ‘minor’ characters, some we knew before, some we meet for the first time. Minor characters can be tricky buggers, when you’ve got an obvious main character you really want to work on and who needs to always be the source of both problems and solutions. They are either foils, back-up, or the guy in the red shirt beamed down with the main characters in Star Trek. You’ve got to have them, but they can’t be too interesting, or they begin to make us think the main man really isn’t up to it. And giving Picts an arse-kicking always goes down well with me, no matter which period a book is set.
A series that is both passionate for the period and the characters and magnetically interesting because of it, full of vivid, clear, exciting writing and, above all, storytelling. I don't know what he's done since starting writing these books, but I do hope he keeps on doing it. Surely, a one word acknowledgement of his talent on the cover can be prised out of Bernard Cornwell sometime soon. And it won't be "Who?"
All my reviews: Speesh Reads
Speesh Reads is also a Facebook Page
February 27, 2019
This book is bloody brilliant. Best one of the series to far, Harffy is so good and making the story feel real and that you are there and involved in the battles. Anyone who enjoys historical fiction needs this series on their reading list!
February 27, 2019
Just excellent full of action and adventure with a truly likeable character
February 26, 2019
Fantastic from start to finish. This series is just getting better and better
March 11, 2017
Character building
Once again the characters are brought to life, their thoughts and actions, emotions appear very real. Will wait impatiently for the next journey. Hope that the young Mercian Prince recovers and meets up with our hero.
Once again the characters are brought to life, their thoughts and actions, emotions appear very real. Will wait impatiently for the next journey. Hope that the young Mercian Prince recovers and meets up with our hero.
October 14, 2018
So riveting that I cannot stop.
March 20, 2020
The author's strength lies in his talent to tell a great tale. He has created great characters that are 3 dimensional, well developed as one would expect in a third book and empathic. Harffy has the talent to weave an excellent story mixed with the factual events that happened during the years the book his set. Beobrand is a character that one can easily warm to, tormented by his past, he evokes all the qualities in a hero, including the fact that he is flawed, does make mistakes and regrets the things he has to do in the name of honour and justice. The characters that surround him are also likeable, well developed individually, including the villains! One thing I really appreciated that there are NO SHIELD MAIDENS! yay! Not that I dislike the odd creation of a shield maiden or two, I am just fed up with the idea that has developed over the recent years that shield maidens were a thing, attending warrior 'schools' and even instructing men how to fight. The female characters are pretty true to the time in Harffy's Bernicia stories. they're not weak or subservient, but they are well embedded in their places in society.
Harffy's ability to use entertaining dialogue that animates the narrative is also one of his strengths as an author. In places however I felt the writing could have been better edited with occasional repetitiveness and too much explaining of characters inner thoughts and motives which the author is capable of showing through the action of his characters. Nonetheless it makes for a great read and
I am looking forward to the next instalment which is coming soon! Book 4 Killer of Kings!
Harffy's ability to use entertaining dialogue that animates the narrative is also one of his strengths as an author. In places however I felt the writing could have been better edited with occasional repetitiveness and too much explaining of characters inner thoughts and motives which the author is capable of showing through the action of his characters. Nonetheless it makes for a great read and
I am looking forward to the next instalment which is coming soon! Book 4 Killer of Kings!
January 27, 2017
I received a free copy from Netgalley of this novel.
Blood and Blade by Matthew Harffy is the third book in his Bernicia Chronicles following the exploits of his, quite frankly, bad-tempered warrior, Beobrand. He's no hero - he's too self-involved, grumpy and lacks any likeable characteristics, even though the author is at pains to explain this away due to the tragedies that have befallen him in Book 2.
However, these do not excuse the foul natured monster that Beobrand has become, and I did struggle to understand why any man, or woman, would want to spend any time with him, or rely on him in his guise as a warrior or a lover. He is, quite simply, lacking in any likable qualities, without even the spark of any humour to soften his harshness, no matter how often Athelstan tries to recount his exploits in the mead hall and make them appear heroic, it simply does not work for me.
The constant shifts in point of view in chapters is annoying, but this is something that I personally don't understand or like in any novel so it's not a particular complaint about this author. I'm always left feeling that if the chapter needs a shift in POV then it's either not a chapter and needs splitting, or the author needs to approach this part of the novel in a different way - give the voice of the story to a different member of the cast.
The storyline of Blood and Blade is somewhat simplistic, and you do reach a certain part of the novel and know exactly what has to happen before it reaches its end. Nothing unexpected happens to bring the novel to its conclusion. This is somewhat of a shame. I would have liked even the idea of a different ending.
The author is at pains to show society, as he perceives it, at this time, and the insistence on the small details is repetitive, as is the constant recounting of Beobrand's aches and pains, recovering wounds and new ones that he receives.
I would reiterate, Beobrand is no hero, but neither is he an anti-hero. He's been thrust into a time in history that is very exciting, and yet it seems that with his constant moaning and complaining, that he has no appreciation of this and is never likely to. For a young man, he often appears to be about 100 years old.
On a final note. I still do not like the way the author treats women of this period. They are either witches, bed companions, or someone else's bed companions, and they are presented as petty and mean to each other. This might be a novel about a (very) grumpy warrior, but Anglo-Saxon women were, and should be, given the place in society that they earned and deserved. Much of this is, obviously, to do with the author's interpretation of this time period, and I suppose, it is worth remembering that it is a work of fiction, and not fact. Still, this is also a shame and I hope, something, that is corrected in later books to allow the author to reach a wider fan base.
Overall, the novel was enjoyable to read.
Blood and Blade by Matthew Harffy is the third book in his Bernicia Chronicles following the exploits of his, quite frankly, bad-tempered warrior, Beobrand. He's no hero - he's too self-involved, grumpy and lacks any likeable characteristics, even though the author is at pains to explain this away due to the tragedies that have befallen him in Book 2.
However, these do not excuse the foul natured monster that Beobrand has become, and I did struggle to understand why any man, or woman, would want to spend any time with him, or rely on him in his guise as a warrior or a lover. He is, quite simply, lacking in any likable qualities, without even the spark of any humour to soften his harshness, no matter how often Athelstan tries to recount his exploits in the mead hall and make them appear heroic, it simply does not work for me.
The constant shifts in point of view in chapters is annoying, but this is something that I personally don't understand or like in any novel so it's not a particular complaint about this author. I'm always left feeling that if the chapter needs a shift in POV then it's either not a chapter and needs splitting, or the author needs to approach this part of the novel in a different way - give the voice of the story to a different member of the cast.
The storyline of Blood and Blade is somewhat simplistic, and you do reach a certain part of the novel and know exactly what has to happen before it reaches its end. Nothing unexpected happens to bring the novel to its conclusion. This is somewhat of a shame. I would have liked even the idea of a different ending.
The author is at pains to show society, as he perceives it, at this time, and the insistence on the small details is repetitive, as is the constant recounting of Beobrand's aches and pains, recovering wounds and new ones that he receives.
I would reiterate, Beobrand is no hero, but neither is he an anti-hero. He's been thrust into a time in history that is very exciting, and yet it seems that with his constant moaning and complaining, that he has no appreciation of this and is never likely to. For a young man, he often appears to be about 100 years old.
On a final note. I still do not like the way the author treats women of this period. They are either witches, bed companions, or someone else's bed companions, and they are presented as petty and mean to each other. This might be a novel about a (very) grumpy warrior, but Anglo-Saxon women were, and should be, given the place in society that they earned and deserved. Much of this is, obviously, to do with the author's interpretation of this time period, and I suppose, it is worth remembering that it is a work of fiction, and not fact. Still, this is also a shame and I hope, something, that is corrected in later books to allow the author to reach a wider fan base.
Overall, the novel was enjoyable to read.
November 15, 2016
Let’s travel to England, shall we? But let’s not go to modern England. Oh, no. No, no, no… nothing that simple. Let’s visit an older England, one existing before the coming of the kings and queens you learned about in school, an England before it was England. Let’s visit the island when it was a cocktail of Angles, Saxons, Jutes, and other Germanic tribes living alongside the native Britons. Let’s go to 7th Century Bernicia.
Never heard of it? I hadn’t either before beginning Matthew Harffy’s wonderful Bernicia Chronicles. Bernicia was a kingdom in the modern English counties of Northumberland and Durham, and the Scottish counties of Berwickshire and East Lothian, stretching from the Forth to the Tees. In the early 7th century, it merged with its southern neighbor, Deira, to form the kingdom of Northumbria. At the time of the book, the region was constantly at war between everyone and anyone, all vying for power and the right to rule.
I reviewed the first two books, The Serpent Sword and The Cross and the Curse, here, so I won’t spend time repeating the things I already covered. I am a fan of the world Harffy created in the opening two books, and Blood and Blade is no exception. But what keeps me coming back each time is Beobrand, the hero of these tales.
The plot is pretty straightforward, and there is action and tension enough to make the story clip along at a fair pace. What I loved most however, was the continuing internal struggle that Beobrand wrestles with. There are many factors that drive him: a self-prescribed vengeance for his long-ago-murdered brother, his duty as the king’s thegn – both to the king directly and to his people, the often overwhelming responsibilities of leadership, and an ongoing battle within himself for identity. All of these voices swirl and compete for supremacy in his head as the story marches on, but it’s that last one, his search for identity, which is the real appeal for me. I adore characters with depth and nuance, but also those with a dark complexity that makes it difficult for them to even understand themselves, much less me, the reader.
Readers who love masculine books with battle scenes and lots of action and adventure will not be disappointed. But I submit to the rest of you that if one reads beyond the pace and story, taking a slower, deeper look, there is a feast to be found in young Beobrand. He is a hero, sometimes willing and other times not. But beyond that, under that heroic outer layer, we discover that he is human, and in that humanity there is much to which we can relate.
Never heard of it? I hadn’t either before beginning Matthew Harffy’s wonderful Bernicia Chronicles. Bernicia was a kingdom in the modern English counties of Northumberland and Durham, and the Scottish counties of Berwickshire and East Lothian, stretching from the Forth to the Tees. In the early 7th century, it merged with its southern neighbor, Deira, to form the kingdom of Northumbria. At the time of the book, the region was constantly at war between everyone and anyone, all vying for power and the right to rule.
I reviewed the first two books, The Serpent Sword and The Cross and the Curse, here, so I won’t spend time repeating the things I already covered. I am a fan of the world Harffy created in the opening two books, and Blood and Blade is no exception. But what keeps me coming back each time is Beobrand, the hero of these tales.
The plot is pretty straightforward, and there is action and tension enough to make the story clip along at a fair pace. What I loved most however, was the continuing internal struggle that Beobrand wrestles with. There are many factors that drive him: a self-prescribed vengeance for his long-ago-murdered brother, his duty as the king’s thegn – both to the king directly and to his people, the often overwhelming responsibilities of leadership, and an ongoing battle within himself for identity. All of these voices swirl and compete for supremacy in his head as the story marches on, but it’s that last one, his search for identity, which is the real appeal for me. I adore characters with depth and nuance, but also those with a dark complexity that makes it difficult for them to even understand themselves, much less me, the reader.
Readers who love masculine books with battle scenes and lots of action and adventure will not be disappointed. But I submit to the rest of you that if one reads beyond the pace and story, taking a slower, deeper look, there is a feast to be found in young Beobrand. He is a hero, sometimes willing and other times not. But beyond that, under that heroic outer layer, we discover that he is human, and in that humanity there is much to which we can relate.
March 19, 2019
It's getting better by the book. Already ordered Killer of Kings ⚔🛡
January 1, 2017
In Blood and Blade, Matthew Harffy's recreation of the violent and crucial decades of 7th-century Britain reaches a new depth and resonance. His hero, Beobrand, is a man whose soul has been as much branded by the events of the previous two books as his body has been battered by them - and how good it is to have an action hero not shake off wounds as lightly as a shower of rain. In this book, Beobrand has to travel the path his wyrd has placed him on, between competing kingdoms and the collision of religions. Harffy handles the many action scenes with his customary skill and realism - this is not a book for the faint hearted - but it is in the portrayal of the relationship between Beobrand and a lowly thrall that the author reveals a deepening appreciation of the human condition and how, even in the midst of the most violent of times, people will strive for love and human contact.
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