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The Forest Lord #4
Blood of the Wolf
ROBIN HOOD RETURNS!
And this time the legendary wolf’s head is working for the sheriff...
After winning his freedom in Rise of the Wolf, Robin – with his faithful lieutenant John Little at his side – now spends his days travelling around northern England dispensing King Edward II’s justice.
When a new band of outlaws appears in Barnsdale, Sheriff Henry de Faucumberg sends Robin and John to deal with them. Before the lawmen can track them down though, Will Scaflock is attacked and another of their old companions murdered in his own home by the outlaws whose leader seems to have only one thing on his mind:
Bloody vengeance!
Will Robin’s reunited gang be enough to defeat this savage new threat that seeks to wipe them out one by one? Or will another old foe provide the final twist that sees England’s greatest longbowman dead and buried?
This stunning conclusion to the bestselling Forest Lord series will delight and entertain readers looking for action packed historical fiction in the mould of Scarrow, Kane and Cornwell!
And this time the legendary wolf’s head is working for the sheriff...
After winning his freedom in Rise of the Wolf, Robin – with his faithful lieutenant John Little at his side – now spends his days travelling around northern England dispensing King Edward II’s justice.
When a new band of outlaws appears in Barnsdale, Sheriff Henry de Faucumberg sends Robin and John to deal with them. Before the lawmen can track them down though, Will Scaflock is attacked and another of their old companions murdered in his own home by the outlaws whose leader seems to have only one thing on his mind:
Bloody vengeance!
Will Robin’s reunited gang be enough to defeat this savage new threat that seeks to wipe them out one by one? Or will another old foe provide the final twist that sees England’s greatest longbowman dead and buried?
This stunning conclusion to the bestselling Forest Lord series will delight and entertain readers looking for action packed historical fiction in the mould of Scarrow, Kane and Cornwell!
385 pages, Paperback
Published October 14, 2016
187 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
About the author
Steven A. McKay
54 books447 followersI was born in 1977, near Glasgow in Scotland and live in Old Kilpatrick with my wife and two young children. After obtaining my Bachelor of Arts degree I decided to follow my life-long ambition and write a novel. The Forest Lord series now has four novels, and various short spin-off tales.
My new book "The Heathen Horde" is the first in a brand series following Alfred the Great. It comes out on October 26 2023 so please check it out and pre-order if you can!
I play guitar and write all my books while listening to extreme metal.
In 2022 I started a podcast with fellow historical author Matthew Harffy. You can subscribe to Rock, Paper, Swords! on all the usual podcast outlets and also find the audio on Youtube every fortnight.
My new book "The Heathen Horde" is the first in a brand series following Alfred the Great. It comes out on October 26 2023 so please check it out and pre-order if you can!
I play guitar and write all my books while listening to extreme metal.
In 2022 I started a podcast with fellow historical author Matthew Harffy. You can subscribe to Rock, Paper, Swords! on all the usual podcast outlets and also find the audio on Youtube every fortnight.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
June 6, 2017
Warning dark and mature content. I have said it since the first book Steven A. Mckay manages to capture the brutality of the time period perfectly. This was a harsh and unforgiving time, people were harder and only brutality was just a way of life. Here only the strong survived, and survival was a day to day thing. The speech and language reflects this, this might be off putting to some but I understand why it had to be like this, it is perfectly suited to the characters. He also manages to capture superstitious culture and how people used this to their advantage.
The other thing that prompted the warning t the top. Though in the other book, Robin were the outlaws/wolf heads, they were essentially the "good guys", and they robed people who could afford it or deserved it, usually with brutal efficiency, however the out laws here do not have Robins moral code. Multiple rapes, of both children and even the elderly, as well as murders of both. Some of these to simply send a message. So be warned.
This story starts with Robin on the side of the law, and not as any Robin Hood fan will have seen him acting in the, when an old member of his gang call him o this he decides on a slight sideways career change. Just in time too as a new outlaw threat has emerged, evil for the sake of evil. With a connection to Robins past. There are many twists and turns in the story. Old enemies become close friends, new enemies are made old grudges surface. Many of the loose ends from earlier book are tied up, however enough is left for certain character to get their own novella. This is a good and ending to great series. If I had one complaint, of the series it is that fact that, the Robin Hood I grew up with was an archer and even though his prowess with a long bow are mentioned, in the whole series he hardly fires a single arrow. Aside from that a great book. It does fill in the blanks of what happened earlier in the series but I would recommend reading the whole series.
The other thing that prompted the warning t the top. Though in the other book, Robin were the outlaws/wolf heads, they were essentially the "good guys", and they robed people who could afford it or deserved it, usually with brutal efficiency, however the out laws here do not have Robins moral code. Multiple rapes, of both children and even the elderly, as well as murders of both. Some of these to simply send a message. So be warned.
This story starts with Robin on the side of the law, and not as any Robin Hood fan will have seen him acting in the, when an old member of his gang call him o this he decides on a slight sideways career change. Just in time too as a new outlaw threat has emerged, evil for the sake of evil. With a connection to Robins past. There are many twists and turns in the story. Old enemies become close friends, new enemies are made old grudges surface. Many of the loose ends from earlier book are tied up, however enough is left for certain character to get their own novella. This is a good and ending to great series. If I had one complaint, of the series it is that fact that, the Robin Hood I grew up with was an archer and even though his prowess with a long bow are mentioned, in the whole series he hardly fires a single arrow. Aside from that a great book. It does fill in the blanks of what happened earlier in the series but I would recommend reading the whole series.
June 30, 2020
This very impressive book is the 4th and final episode of the wonderful "Forest Lord" series, from the remarkable author, Steven A. McKay.
Historical details concerning this fascinating tale can be found at the end of the book, where they are very well documented and explained by the author.
Story-telling has again been of a superb quality, all characters, whether real historical or mythical fictional, come vividly to life within this marvellous historical tale.
The story begins in May, AD 1326, during the final months of the reign of King Edward II, with Robin Hood, and his great little friend, Little John, now both acting as lawmen for the Sheriff of Nottingham and Yorkshire, Sir Hugh de Faucumberg.
All the other former Outlaws, who are now pardoned, are all working for themselves or have been living in great poverty, when all of a sudden a new antagonist will come into the picture, and on his mind there's only murder and mayhem.
This new antagonist goes by the name of, Philip Groves, and he's the older brother of the former outlaw and turn traitor, Matt Groves, and this Philip Groves with his giant friend, Eoin, will try to raise an army of outlaws to bring murder and mayhem into Yorkshire, and thereby especially targeting Robin Hood for his personal revenge.
What is to follow is an action-packed and fast-paced legendary historical tale, where Robin Hood and Little John are united again with their former outlaws, Will Scaflock, Friar Tuck, Stephen the Hospitaller Sergeant-at-arms, James, Peter and Piers, and together they will embark on a perilous journey in an attempt to stop the threat of this insane murderer, Philip Groves, and so to bring finally peace to their lives and towards a definite surprising and fascinating twist.
Very much recommended, this is a great series, executed and brought to us by the author in his own legendary way, and finally what this splendid episode is concerned I like to call it: "A Fantastic "Forest Lord" Conclusion"!
Historical details concerning this fascinating tale can be found at the end of the book, where they are very well documented and explained by the author.
Story-telling has again been of a superb quality, all characters, whether real historical or mythical fictional, come vividly to life within this marvellous historical tale.
The story begins in May, AD 1326, during the final months of the reign of King Edward II, with Robin Hood, and his great little friend, Little John, now both acting as lawmen for the Sheriff of Nottingham and Yorkshire, Sir Hugh de Faucumberg.
All the other former Outlaws, who are now pardoned, are all working for themselves or have been living in great poverty, when all of a sudden a new antagonist will come into the picture, and on his mind there's only murder and mayhem.
This new antagonist goes by the name of, Philip Groves, and he's the older brother of the former outlaw and turn traitor, Matt Groves, and this Philip Groves with his giant friend, Eoin, will try to raise an army of outlaws to bring murder and mayhem into Yorkshire, and thereby especially targeting Robin Hood for his personal revenge.
What is to follow is an action-packed and fast-paced legendary historical tale, where Robin Hood and Little John are united again with their former outlaws, Will Scaflock, Friar Tuck, Stephen the Hospitaller Sergeant-at-arms, James, Peter and Piers, and together they will embark on a perilous journey in an attempt to stop the threat of this insane murderer, Philip Groves, and so to bring finally peace to their lives and towards a definite surprising and fascinating twist.
Very much recommended, this is a great series, executed and brought to us by the author in his own legendary way, and finally what this splendid episode is concerned I like to call it: "A Fantastic "Forest Lord" Conclusion"!
October 14, 2016
Blood Of The Wolf is the fourth and final novel in Steven A. McKay's Robin Hood series and it delivers to the same standard his readers have come to expect from his previous outings.
I won't spoil the previous books in this review, but part of the appeal of this series is derived from some of the surprising choices McKay has made which set his Robin Hood story apart from most of the others in print. He has set his story down in the historically sound setting of 14th century Yorkshire instead of the more traditional 12th century Nottinghamshire locale. He has purged the tale of its later legendary associations with nobility and given us a very working class Robin Hood with whom most modern readers can more easily identify.
In fact, it may be easier to identify with Robin in this volume than in any of the preceding entries in the series. As the story opens, Robin finds life on the right side of the law even harder than the rough life of an outlaw, and while outwardly he appears to be a success in his new career, he finds himself drifting away from his friends and struggling to keep his family whole in uncertain times. In case he's not challenged enough by his new place in society as a lawman, Robin also has the malice of old and new enemies to contend with. As usual with a Steven McKay story, the conflict plays out with high tension, suspense and plenty of action.
While a number of scenes display McKay's skill at pulse-pounding action scenes, one event stands out as extraordinary. Blood Of The Wolf unfolds what may be the single most intense, fast-paced, violent and chilling siege sequences I have ever read about. The stakes are high for participants on both sides of the conflict and McKay winds up the tension until the reader is ready to snap, and when he eases off and gives the reader some relief, it's only briefly before he bends back his bow and shoots again.
Steven McKay has a talent for writing "real" characters that modern readers can recognize. There is intelligence and aspiration and real motivation here, but we have salty common speech here as well. Readers of Scarrow and Cornwell should have no trouble relating to McKay's characters or appreciating his skill in unfolding action.
McKay has delivered a version of the Robin Hood legend that pays homage to the tradition but still charts new territory and the conclusion of the series continues that trend. The final novel in this series brings everything to a proper close and while the reader may be left wanting more for all the best reasons, it isn't because the author hasn't done enough.
I may be sorry to see this series draw to a close, but I'll be aboard for whatever McKay tries next.
I won't spoil the previous books in this review, but part of the appeal of this series is derived from some of the surprising choices McKay has made which set his Robin Hood story apart from most of the others in print. He has set his story down in the historically sound setting of 14th century Yorkshire instead of the more traditional 12th century Nottinghamshire locale. He has purged the tale of its later legendary associations with nobility and given us a very working class Robin Hood with whom most modern readers can more easily identify.
In fact, it may be easier to identify with Robin in this volume than in any of the preceding entries in the series. As the story opens, Robin finds life on the right side of the law even harder than the rough life of an outlaw, and while outwardly he appears to be a success in his new career, he finds himself drifting away from his friends and struggling to keep his family whole in uncertain times. In case he's not challenged enough by his new place in society as a lawman, Robin also has the malice of old and new enemies to contend with. As usual with a Steven McKay story, the conflict plays out with high tension, suspense and plenty of action.
While a number of scenes display McKay's skill at pulse-pounding action scenes, one event stands out as extraordinary. Blood Of The Wolf unfolds what may be the single most intense, fast-paced, violent and chilling siege sequences I have ever read about. The stakes are high for participants on both sides of the conflict and McKay winds up the tension until the reader is ready to snap, and when he eases off and gives the reader some relief, it's only briefly before he bends back his bow and shoots again.
Steven McKay has a talent for writing "real" characters that modern readers can recognize. There is intelligence and aspiration and real motivation here, but we have salty common speech here as well. Readers of Scarrow and Cornwell should have no trouble relating to McKay's characters or appreciating his skill in unfolding action.
McKay has delivered a version of the Robin Hood legend that pays homage to the tradition but still charts new territory and the conclusion of the series continues that trend. The final novel in this series brings everything to a proper close and while the reader may be left wanting more for all the best reasons, it isn't because the author hasn't done enough.
I may be sorry to see this series draw to a close, but I'll be aboard for whatever McKay tries next.
October 30, 2016
Robin has been pardoned, he is no longer an outlaw; indeed he is even working for the law now. He is reunited with his wife and son. Life is good, Robin should be a happy man. But alas, conflicted feelings about his job and how harmful the enforcement of the law can be and increasing tension at home rears over his job as well. The finale of this engrossing set of tales brings together Robin and what's left of his old gang to pursue and destroy an enemy who is out for revenge against them. Plus there is another old score waiting to be settled by a most loathsome churchman. Taut, tense and full of action and surprises, Mr. McKay gives the reader an entertaining and fitting end to his Robin Hood series. My only, well, make that two complaints, is that the tension in some spots is such that I had to put the book down and take a breath or two (not that this is a bad thing)..and two - that the series is done. I commend the author on how he brings it to a close...that's all I will say about that...you need to read it to find out. :-) 5 stars and the highly sought after Hoover Book Reviews - "You Gotta Read This Series" award.
April 9, 2017
A rip roaring read from a master storyteller at the top of his game and a wonderfully fitting end to a great series..... as explained in the other books this is the story of Robin Hood told with a few differences, set in the 14th century rather than the 12th and with Robin a decidedly working class lad rather than disenfranchised upper class. This book finds Robin and John Little working on the right side of the law.....With Robin maybe a little too comfortable with the trappings of his new life if not with the lack of adventure or risk. But all is not well in the great woods of the north as they are plagued by a new band of outlaws led by a true psychopath with a grudge against Robin.....These are definitely not your 'rob from the rich give to the poor' types. Tasked by his new and unexpected friend Sir Henry De Faucumberg the sheriff of Nottingham Robin and his band must hunt down these outlaws and thus begins a game of cat and well cat......across Nottingham and Yorkshire. It was interesting to see Robin, Little John, Will and others, true hard men used to a hard life clash with a deranged, dangerously charismatic leader who just doesn't care who he hurts.......
There are pulse pounding chases and bone crunching action scenes that leave you breathless, including one hell of a finish! All in all a wonderful story that truly evokes the spirit of Sherwood Forest and the men of Lincoln Green.
There are pulse pounding chases and bone crunching action scenes that leave you breathless, including one hell of a finish! All in all a wonderful story that truly evokes the spirit of Sherwood Forest and the men of Lincoln Green.
November 10, 2018
An emotional farewell to Robin and his band of Wolf's Heads. But Blood of the Wolf is anything but a long, sad farewell. It is, along with the previous Forest Lord books, a joyous celebration of the Robin Hood myth, and, it's much more up-beat than Angus Donald's peerless and incredibly moving The Death of Robin Hood. The tears in my eyes this time, at the end of Blood of the Wolf, were those of happiness.
Yes, Blood of the Wolf is as rip-snorting, barn-storming, rambunctious a tale of daring-do - along with what my old Grandmother used to call "dirty dickery" as you're ever likely to enjoy. A fully fitting way to see the series finish...or...
For a start, it is a triumphant celebration of all that has made Steven's Robin Hood series so fresh and unmissable. In contrast to Angus' Outlaw Chronicles, Steven's books have actually had Robin Hood in the centre. Everything revolves around Robin, he is the fulcrum and the undisputed leader of the stories. Remember, in Angus' novels, the main character was actually Alan Dale. It's his remembrances we follow, and Robin may be the one who leads Alan where he goes, but Robin Hood is more of a background character. Steven's hero is indisputably Robin Hood, but then, a character as strong as Steven's Robin can only that way thanks to his supporting actors characters. Here, I feel, the supporting characters of Little John, Friar Tuck and, my especial favourite from the start, Will Scaflock, really shine through the forest... Not only do they get the page-time they deserve, but they also get a chance to show their mettle, their pathos, and share in the tragedy and help determine the outcome of the story. To also come full circle, there returns a character, or at least a close relative, that we first encountered earlier in the series, a thoroughly nasty piece of work whose sole purpose is to wipe out the whole of the Outlaw band. Consider: the former Wolf's Heads, who are first and foremost former Wolf's Heads, now finding themselves on the side of law and justice and the English way, are being pursued by a ruthless band of outlaws... An ironic masterstroke.
It really has been an absolute privilege to first discover, then enjoy Steven A. McKay's Forest Lord series. He is undoubtedly worthy to be mentioned alongside Angus Donald when thinking of the Robin Hood legend. To have reached the end is...well, is this the end? I know what I think - and hope - you'll have to read Blood of the Wolf and make your own mind up...
Blog: Speesh Reads
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Yes, Blood of the Wolf is as rip-snorting, barn-storming, rambunctious a tale of daring-do - along with what my old Grandmother used to call "dirty dickery" as you're ever likely to enjoy. A fully fitting way to see the series finish...or...
For a start, it is a triumphant celebration of all that has made Steven's Robin Hood series so fresh and unmissable. In contrast to Angus' Outlaw Chronicles, Steven's books have actually had Robin Hood in the centre. Everything revolves around Robin, he is the fulcrum and the undisputed leader of the stories. Remember, in Angus' novels, the main character was actually Alan Dale. It's his remembrances we follow, and Robin may be the one who leads Alan where he goes, but Robin Hood is more of a background character. Steven's hero is indisputably Robin Hood, but then, a character as strong as Steven's Robin can only that way thanks to his supporting actors characters. Here, I feel, the supporting characters of Little John, Friar Tuck and, my especial favourite from the start, Will Scaflock, really shine through the forest... Not only do they get the page-time they deserve, but they also get a chance to show their mettle, their pathos, and share in the tragedy and help determine the outcome of the story. To also come full circle, there returns a character, or at least a close relative, that we first encountered earlier in the series, a thoroughly nasty piece of work whose sole purpose is to wipe out the whole of the Outlaw band. Consider: the former Wolf's Heads, who are first and foremost former Wolf's Heads, now finding themselves on the side of law and justice and the English way, are being pursued by a ruthless band of outlaws... An ironic masterstroke.
It really has been an absolute privilege to first discover, then enjoy Steven A. McKay's Forest Lord series. He is undoubtedly worthy to be mentioned alongside Angus Donald when thinking of the Robin Hood legend. To have reached the end is...well, is this the end? I know what I think - and hope - you'll have to read Blood of the Wolf and make your own mind up...
Blog: Speesh Reads
Facebook: Speesh Reads
Pinterest: Speesh Reads
May 13, 2019
Exceptional ending to a remarkable series.
October 14, 2016
Robin is back! And this is the best yet. Dark, gritty and downright engrossing.
After the last book I had no idea what would be coming next but not in a million years did I imagine him working for the sheriff, and that he has grown to like/respect the man.. neither did I expect to feel the same way!
Characters are turned on their head at the beginning of the tale, Robin isn’t the man he was..he’s changed and we gradually learn why..Robin can’t help everyone and some people will always take advantage. It was an interesting twist to Robin to see him grow and understand this after his time as a wolf’s head.
Quickly this new Robin makes a few enemies and old faces come back to haunt him. I won’t give the game away but these new outlaws have a brutal and familiar leader..and I hated him so so much…McKay’s storytelling is very emotive..it was so easy to form my opinions of the characters.. so much so I could have been right next to Robin in the action I was that taken in by the tale
Robin has to bring his old gang back together one last time to stop these outlaws but a lot has changed over the years. They are older..some settled. Will they all make it out alive? Well let’s just say it’s not McKay’s style to have everyone survive is it..but even I was shocked at the brutality of this tale.. it’s the darkest of the series so far and brought something extra to the tale. With the other books in the series I always felt Robin would win.. this one I just wasn’t sure he had it in him..this feeling kept me reading until the early hours as I had to find out if he could make it out of this one.
Growth is the word I’d pick to describe this book, I honestly feel not only did Robin grow but so has the author.. this is his best yet and this plot left it wide open for the author to really use his imagination.. and boy has he!
This is the dark and gritty Robin I’ve been waiting for all my life since I heard about him as a little boy. It’s the perfect mix of the hero we all know about with added darkness and determination to really make the tale believable
I’m never one to give away an ending but this one was done to perfection..leaving the reader to contemplate events and really look back at the journey our hero has taken
McKay has delivered when I thought the series had come to a natural end and has given us his best tale yet.
My favourite little scene in book was when Robin had been playing with his son and Little John visits. While the men talk Arthur goes quiet and the author hints it’s when kids go quiet you have to be worried not when they are making noise.. as a dad of two I really understand this ha.
McKay’s true talent lies in the development, he makes everything come alive and as a reader you can really get to grips with the tale.. become a part of it.. lose yourself in the moment.
Top notch!
After the last book I had no idea what would be coming next but not in a million years did I imagine him working for the sheriff, and that he has grown to like/respect the man.. neither did I expect to feel the same way!
Characters are turned on their head at the beginning of the tale, Robin isn’t the man he was..he’s changed and we gradually learn why..Robin can’t help everyone and some people will always take advantage. It was an interesting twist to Robin to see him grow and understand this after his time as a wolf’s head.
Quickly this new Robin makes a few enemies and old faces come back to haunt him. I won’t give the game away but these new outlaws have a brutal and familiar leader..and I hated him so so much…McKay’s storytelling is very emotive..it was so easy to form my opinions of the characters.. so much so I could have been right next to Robin in the action I was that taken in by the tale
Robin has to bring his old gang back together one last time to stop these outlaws but a lot has changed over the years. They are older..some settled. Will they all make it out alive? Well let’s just say it’s not McKay’s style to have everyone survive is it..but even I was shocked at the brutality of this tale.. it’s the darkest of the series so far and brought something extra to the tale. With the other books in the series I always felt Robin would win.. this one I just wasn’t sure he had it in him..this feeling kept me reading until the early hours as I had to find out if he could make it out of this one.
Growth is the word I’d pick to describe this book, I honestly feel not only did Robin grow but so has the author.. this is his best yet and this plot left it wide open for the author to really use his imagination.. and boy has he!
This is the dark and gritty Robin I’ve been waiting for all my life since I heard about him as a little boy. It’s the perfect mix of the hero we all know about with added darkness and determination to really make the tale believable
I’m never one to give away an ending but this one was done to perfection..leaving the reader to contemplate events and really look back at the journey our hero has taken
McKay has delivered when I thought the series had come to a natural end and has given us his best tale yet.
My favourite little scene in book was when Robin had been playing with his son and Little John visits. While the men talk Arthur goes quiet and the author hints it’s when kids go quiet you have to be worried not when they are making noise.. as a dad of two I really understand this ha.
McKay’s true talent lies in the development, he makes everything come alive and as a reader you can really get to grips with the tale.. become a part of it.. lose yourself in the moment.
Top notch!
October 28, 2016
Blood of the wolf.
This is the fourth and the last one in Steven A. MC Kay’s Robin Hood Forest Lord Series. Once again the author delivers! And he does it in style with a stunning finale to the series that nicely wraps it up. I have always loved Stevens back to basics Robin Hood approach, based on the early Robin Hood balads. He is the yeoman, the country bumpkin, turned outlaw, the guy you would have a beer with at your local pub, but don’t want to face in a brawl. At the end of the third novel, Rise of the Wolf, Robin and his gang finally achieved the goal they all had been striving so hard for. Having their ban of outlawry lifted and finally getting the chance to go back to their normal lives.
Robin and Little John are now enlisted as bailiffs of the sheriff of Nottingham, and instead of outlaws they suddenly find themselves lawmen and law enforcers; a nice reversal of roles by the author, which he plays out nicely. Suddenly they are faced with moral dilemma’s about justice which they didn’t have to face before when they were outlaws. His new role also puts pressure on his relationship, and as cherry on the pie in the plot, there is also a new band of vicious and murderous wolfs heads on the loose wreaking havoc in Nottinghamshire, lead by a man with a score to settle with Robin and all of his old outlaw friends, and when these new wolfheads on the block also happen to be backed by a powerful ally who also has a score to settle with Robin, there is no choice left but to call all of the remaining old wolf heads of the old gang back together to face and root out the evil.
So basically there we have the lines the plot will run along. And the author Steven A. Mc. Kay obliges and blends and spins all ofthe lines together nicely into a great and compelling Robin Hood adventure story in his typical no- nonsense back to basics writing style. I started it and couldn’t put it down until it was finished. I think that Number four, Blood of the Wolf, is a very worthwhile addition to the Forest Lord Series, and it cements Steven A Mc Kays Robin Hood even firmer onto the firmament of that great Robin Hood tradition that already goes on for some 700 years . In that ever expanding pond of stories about one of the worlds most popular heroes, Stevens Robin most certainly has earned his place.
This is the fourth and the last one in Steven A. MC Kay’s Robin Hood Forest Lord Series. Once again the author delivers! And he does it in style with a stunning finale to the series that nicely wraps it up. I have always loved Stevens back to basics Robin Hood approach, based on the early Robin Hood balads. He is the yeoman, the country bumpkin, turned outlaw, the guy you would have a beer with at your local pub, but don’t want to face in a brawl. At the end of the third novel, Rise of the Wolf, Robin and his gang finally achieved the goal they all had been striving so hard for. Having their ban of outlawry lifted and finally getting the chance to go back to their normal lives.
Robin and Little John are now enlisted as bailiffs of the sheriff of Nottingham, and instead of outlaws they suddenly find themselves lawmen and law enforcers; a nice reversal of roles by the author, which he plays out nicely. Suddenly they are faced with moral dilemma’s about justice which they didn’t have to face before when they were outlaws. His new role also puts pressure on his relationship, and as cherry on the pie in the plot, there is also a new band of vicious and murderous wolfs heads on the loose wreaking havoc in Nottinghamshire, lead by a man with a score to settle with Robin and all of his old outlaw friends, and when these new wolfheads on the block also happen to be backed by a powerful ally who also has a score to settle with Robin, there is no choice left but to call all of the remaining old wolf heads of the old gang back together to face and root out the evil.
So basically there we have the lines the plot will run along. And the author Steven A. Mc. Kay obliges and blends and spins all ofthe lines together nicely into a great and compelling Robin Hood adventure story in his typical no- nonsense back to basics writing style. I started it and couldn’t put it down until it was finished. I think that Number four, Blood of the Wolf, is a very worthwhile addition to the Forest Lord Series, and it cements Steven A Mc Kays Robin Hood even firmer onto the firmament of that great Robin Hood tradition that already goes on for some 700 years . In that ever expanding pond of stories about one of the worlds most popular heroes, Stevens Robin most certainly has earned his place.
December 25, 2024
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MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.75/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
And it all comes to an end, McKay’s story-telling has been exceptional throughout the entire series and continues to grow in the final installment of The Forest Lord series. With Rise of the Wolf being the end of Robin and his men being outlaws, Blood of the Wolf shows Robin on the other end of the stick as one of the sheriff’s bailiffs and having to deal with a viciously troublesome gang of outlaws killing and raping anyone that they can. This story is great in that it shows Robin facing someone much worse than who he was as an outlaw and seeing what it’s like to have to apprehend someone like that while obeying the law, as well as minor things like collecting taxes and having to evict people.
This is the most tragic novel of this series, and McKay punched me right in the feels, it’s the perfect way to end this series. While this is tragic, it’s also probably the darkest of the quadrilogy as well. The other books in the series either mention or allude to rape happening, but McKay takes it a bit further, though not describing in detail, rape is presently occurring, and it’s happening to not just women, but to anyone that ends up in the way of the new outlaw gang. The best part of this though, is showing the troubles at home for Robin and Matilda, showing an even more human side of the story that things aren’t as well as he and Matilda had hoped it would be with the both of them being able to be together all the time.
“Let’s just get drunk tonight, lads, and forget how shit the world is. It’s been an honour to fight alongside you all.”
McKay’s story telling is one of his best attributes, but I love that he makes time to get to know the characters in some form, mainly when they are sitting around and revealing what brought them to where they are. Throughout the series, I got to learn more and more of each one of the main characters, but there was still more to do. I loved that McKay gave more information about the sherif and his life leading up to the moment he ran into Robin Hood. Not only that, but the seeds from the previous novel were dropped for the new antagonistic of this story, but this antagonist, Philip, is far worse than any Robin has faced before.
I love that this story while tragic and dark, ended with an epilogue that put me in such a good mood that put me right back into my feels once again, if you can make me cry or even tear up, you did your job… and I definitely shed a tear or two. Once again, the Nick Ellsworth narration is just so good, his voice work, the way it feels like he’s just as much into the story as I was made it even better. Every story needs a narrator like him, someone that draws out the emotions of the story and characters, rather than just reading the words. The story was good, but his narration made it top notch.
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MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.75/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
And it all comes to an end, McKay’s story-telling has been exceptional throughout the entire series and continues to grow in the final installment of The Forest Lord series. With Rise of the Wolf being the end of Robin and his men being outlaws, Blood of the Wolf shows Robin on the other end of the stick as one of the sheriff’s bailiffs and having to deal with a viciously troublesome gang of outlaws killing and raping anyone that they can. This story is great in that it shows Robin facing someone much worse than who he was as an outlaw and seeing what it’s like to have to apprehend someone like that while obeying the law, as well as minor things like collecting taxes and having to evict people.
This is the most tragic novel of this series, and McKay punched me right in the feels, it’s the perfect way to end this series. While this is tragic, it’s also probably the darkest of the quadrilogy as well. The other books in the series either mention or allude to rape happening, but McKay takes it a bit further, though not describing in detail, rape is presently occurring, and it’s happening to not just women, but to anyone that ends up in the way of the new outlaw gang. The best part of this though, is showing the troubles at home for Robin and Matilda, showing an even more human side of the story that things aren’t as well as he and Matilda had hoped it would be with the both of them being able to be together all the time.
“Let’s just get drunk tonight, lads, and forget how shit the world is. It’s been an honour to fight alongside you all.”
McKay’s story telling is one of his best attributes, but I love that he makes time to get to know the characters in some form, mainly when they are sitting around and revealing what brought them to where they are. Throughout the series, I got to learn more and more of each one of the main characters, but there was still more to do. I loved that McKay gave more information about the sherif and his life leading up to the moment he ran into Robin Hood. Not only that, but the seeds from the previous novel were dropped for the new antagonistic of this story, but this antagonist, Philip, is far worse than any Robin has faced before.
I love that this story while tragic and dark, ended with an epilogue that put me in such a good mood that put me right back into my feels once again, if you can make me cry or even tear up, you did your job… and I definitely shed a tear or two. Once again, the Nick Ellsworth narration is just so good, his voice work, the way it feels like he’s just as much into the story as I was made it even better. Every story needs a narrator like him, someone that draws out the emotions of the story and characters, rather than just reading the words. The story was good, but his narration made it top notch.
May 26, 2017
Other than some proof-reading errors - most of them being words repeated as "the the" - this was a suiting finale to Steven McKay's Robin Hood saga. Actually, it isn't, there is a novella due out sometime in 2017 which will put it all to rest, but for all practical purposes, this is the end of an enjoyable series.
Robin Hood - now a good buddy of the Sheriff is once again declared to be an outlaw and sets about clearing his name while trying to bring the real outlaws to justice. It all culminates in a rather bloody, graphically written showdown at Kirklees priory -if you're squeamish, you won't enjoy the rape scenes where the nuns at Kirklees are at the outlaw's mercy until Robin and his men move in to dispatch them to outlaw hell since it's unlikely there's such a thing as outlaw heaven. In the end, we are treated to the death of Robin Hood with the remainder wrapping it all up telling what his men were going to be doing with the rest of their life.
Then comes the Epilogue. Robin's wife Matilda and son Arthur are seen riding off, presumably to begin a new life in Scotland - which would be a great place to do just that - and through the eyes of Will Scafflock (Scarlet), we see a shadowy figure jump onto the Scotland-bound cart. Is it Robin? Did he not die after all? Did he fake his death? Did he enjoy all the eulogies telling what a wonderful person he was? The reader is left to wonder and draw their own conclusion. Obviously, most would like to think he and his family made it to Scotland where he lived to be a ripe old age as a member of the landed gentry. It's up to you, the reader, to decide what happened.
For the series as a whole - 4 1/2 stars - that includes the novellas, short stories and assorted electronic-only stories which will, hopefully, one day be gathered together in a single volume so those of us who like real books will be able to read them all. With sales declining something like 22% in the last year for electronic books and readership on the rise for real books, catering to the electronic-only crowd in the future might not be such a great idea. The series is a good start for a writer on the rise and I'm looking forward to the author's next effort which is all about druids - interesting choice of topics.
Robin Hood - now a good buddy of the Sheriff is once again declared to be an outlaw and sets about clearing his name while trying to bring the real outlaws to justice. It all culminates in a rather bloody, graphically written showdown at Kirklees priory -if you're squeamish, you won't enjoy the rape scenes where the nuns at Kirklees are at the outlaw's mercy until Robin and his men move in to dispatch them to outlaw hell since it's unlikely there's such a thing as outlaw heaven. In the end, we are treated to the death of Robin Hood with the remainder wrapping it all up telling what his men were going to be doing with the rest of their life.
Then comes the Epilogue. Robin's wife Matilda and son Arthur are seen riding off, presumably to begin a new life in Scotland - which would be a great place to do just that - and through the eyes of Will Scafflock (Scarlet), we see a shadowy figure jump onto the Scotland-bound cart. Is it Robin? Did he not die after all? Did he fake his death? Did he enjoy all the eulogies telling what a wonderful person he was? The reader is left to wonder and draw their own conclusion. Obviously, most would like to think he and his family made it to Scotland where he lived to be a ripe old age as a member of the landed gentry. It's up to you, the reader, to decide what happened.
For the series as a whole - 4 1/2 stars - that includes the novellas, short stories and assorted electronic-only stories which will, hopefully, one day be gathered together in a single volume so those of us who like real books will be able to read them all. With sales declining something like 22% in the last year for electronic books and readership on the rise for real books, catering to the electronic-only crowd in the future might not be such a great idea. The series is a good start for a writer on the rise and I'm looking forward to the author's next effort which is all about druids - interesting choice of topics.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2017
This is the fourth and final installment in the Forest Lord series by the indie author Steven A. McKay.
I have been waiting long to get my hands on this final chapter of Robin Hood's adventure.
I have never enjoyed a Robin Hood tale (or even movie or TV adaptation) as much as I enjoyed Steven's version.
He has not tied himself to following the existing story lines and adaptation but let his imagination take different turns and twists with his own version even though he kept the bulk of the story true to the historic time lines.
In this series you will get to know each and every one of his gang intimately and enough focus has been equally given to each of the characters so you can fall in love with them equally, even his greatest foes The Sheriff De Fauconberg and the wolf's head hunter sent by the king, Gisbourne.
The series connected with me and all readers as the author depicted the legend that is Robin as a human of flesh and bones with realness and decisions that can sometimes be bad or cunning.
You can relate to all characters
I have been a huge fan of Steven's series and spin-off short novellas. I have been stalking him and bombarding him with queries as to when he will finish the next story. He will now get a break from me for a while:)
I am truly sad it has come to an end although the author promised he will write a short novella or two before he moves on to entirely different series.
It has been so successful that he is now able to work less and dedicate more time to writing.
I thoroughly recommend this series as you will get to know Robin and his friends like you have never known them before.
April 4, 2024
4.5
This was a rousing and fun series about Robin Hood. I liked the twists on some of the characters too. However I would’ve been just as happy to see it end after book 3.
Now that Robin is pardoned, he is working as bailiff for the sheriff. Who knew he’d become who he fought all those years! So he makes some questionable choices until he is sent to check out an evil village where they worship Satan. Here we meet the hideous and cruel Philip Groves, our main villain. And yes, if you remember he is the brother to that betrayer, Matt.
Philip is putting together his own group of Wolf’s Head outlaws, and they are mean, cruel, and sadistic to any and all travelers they meet.
As Robin slowly gathers his previous merry men to combat this clan of outlaws, he realizes how he misses the olden days. Will Scarlett is still a favorite. He brings the righteous anger and violence needed.
As fate would have it, a situation involving the arrogant Prior Monte Martini, flips things on its head, and now Robin and his men are outlaws again. How this happens is very clever.
I really love the camaraderie amongst the men and how they work together. I was anxious at certain points to see how the characters would fare. My only criticism is that Matilda reacts as a modern woman again. I just don’t think that’s realistic for these times. But it’s not that big a deal.
Overall I was totally invested in Robin Hood and his men. I wanted severe justice done against the villains. And I enjoyed how everything was resolved.
If you’re looking for a fun and rousing adventure with books that are on the shorter side, you should give this a go!
This was a rousing and fun series about Robin Hood. I liked the twists on some of the characters too. However I would’ve been just as happy to see it end after book 3.
Now that Robin is pardoned, he is working as bailiff for the sheriff. Who knew he’d become who he fought all those years! So he makes some questionable choices until he is sent to check out an evil village where they worship Satan. Here we meet the hideous and cruel Philip Groves, our main villain. And yes, if you remember he is the brother to that betrayer, Matt.
Philip is putting together his own group of Wolf’s Head outlaws, and they are mean, cruel, and sadistic to any and all travelers they meet.
As Robin slowly gathers his previous merry men to combat this clan of outlaws, he realizes how he misses the olden days. Will Scarlett is still a favorite. He brings the righteous anger and violence needed.
As fate would have it, a situation involving the arrogant Prior Monte Martini, flips things on its head, and now Robin and his men are outlaws again. How this happens is very clever.
I really love the camaraderie amongst the men and how they work together. I was anxious at certain points to see how the characters would fare. My only criticism is that Matilda reacts as a modern woman again. I just don’t think that’s realistic for these times. But it’s not that big a deal.
Overall I was totally invested in Robin Hood and his men. I wanted severe justice done against the villains. And I enjoyed how everything was resolved.
If you’re looking for a fun and rousing adventure with books that are on the shorter side, you should give this a go!
September 5, 2020
Phew; at last I have finished the four book “Forest Lord” series.
“Blood of the Wolf” has Robin Hood and Little John as poachers turned gamekeepers working as Bailiffs for the Sheriff of York and Nottingham, with a nod to both the impending invasion of Isabella, the She Wolf of France, and her lover, Mortimer, that will take the throne of England from Edward II and to the Robin Hood ballad that deals with his death at Kirklees. The concept is good and gives scope to the conflict of mind and morals such actions invoke.
I still find the author’s lack of knowledge of using a longbow (in this case the war bow) makes me cringe. He has archers holding and pointing and looking along an arrow when the draw weight prevents this and the archer has to lean into the bow, using his back muscles as much as his shoulder and arms muscles (I know as I shoot a traditional longbow and, when younger, a war bow). Methinks he has been watching too many Hollywood films.
I didn’t get too much pleasure from this, the final book: the number of times the “f” word appears has increased exponentially with each book and, again, there is a lot of back story to characters that needed not to be included (see my comments on others in the series). It took me a week to read and I confess to speed reading at times. Apparently Steven A. McKay has undertaken writing books on Will Scarlet, but I will be giving them a miss.
“Blood of the Wolf” has Robin Hood and Little John as poachers turned gamekeepers working as Bailiffs for the Sheriff of York and Nottingham, with a nod to both the impending invasion of Isabella, the She Wolf of France, and her lover, Mortimer, that will take the throne of England from Edward II and to the Robin Hood ballad that deals with his death at Kirklees. The concept is good and gives scope to the conflict of mind and morals such actions invoke.
I still find the author’s lack of knowledge of using a longbow (in this case the war bow) makes me cringe. He has archers holding and pointing and looking along an arrow when the draw weight prevents this and the archer has to lean into the bow, using his back muscles as much as his shoulder and arms muscles (I know as I shoot a traditional longbow and, when younger, a war bow). Methinks he has been watching too many Hollywood films.
I didn’t get too much pleasure from this, the final book: the number of times the “f” word appears has increased exponentially with each book and, again, there is a lot of back story to characters that needed not to be included (see my comments on others in the series). It took me a week to read and I confess to speed reading at times. Apparently Steven A. McKay has undertaken writing books on Will Scarlet, but I will be giving them a miss.
October 13, 2017
I may be a little harsh in giving this 3 stars and not 3.5.
When i finished the previous book, i thought that was the end. To my mind it was all done and dusted - but the 4th book was announced. Therefore i started this with a little apprehension.
This books sees a lot happening - Robin is a bailiff that appears to be a little corrupt (basically, taking bribes etc). However, this is not the case - he has just become disillusioned. No worries, he is sent off to hunt another outlaw in the area.
Philip Stokes is the brother of the vile Matt Stokes (not sure if the spelling of the surname is correct - as i listened to this series). He is a right bastard and kills and rapes his way through the book. While it was a little graphic in some places - it was the aftermath that was described, leaving everything else to our imaginations. This was a dark person indeed.
The plot seemed a little forced in some areas, and dragged a little in others and the ending was fairly predictable (there were authours notes - and i would have liked to see this alternative ending).
All in i enjoyed the story and look forward to his next series.
The quality of the audiobook was a little low. Narrator was good, but the gaps were a little too long and you could sometimes hear background noise in the silence (was that a page turning, narrator swallowing some water etc).
When i finished the previous book, i thought that was the end. To my mind it was all done and dusted - but the 4th book was announced. Therefore i started this with a little apprehension.
This books sees a lot happening - Robin is a bailiff that appears to be a little corrupt (basically, taking bribes etc). However, this is not the case - he has just become disillusioned. No worries, he is sent off to hunt another outlaw in the area.
Philip Stokes is the brother of the vile Matt Stokes (not sure if the spelling of the surname is correct - as i listened to this series). He is a right bastard and kills and rapes his way through the book. While it was a little graphic in some places - it was the aftermath that was described, leaving everything else to our imaginations. This was a dark person indeed.
The plot seemed a little forced in some areas, and dragged a little in others and the ending was fairly predictable (there were authours notes - and i would have liked to see this alternative ending).
All in i enjoyed the story and look forward to his next series.
The quality of the audiobook was a little low. Narrator was good, but the gaps were a little too long and you could sometimes hear background noise in the silence (was that a page turning, narrator swallowing some water etc).
August 13, 2019
What can I say, except amazing! I am so pleased I bought all four books as one collection, it would have been unbearable to have to wait more than a few seconds between books. Having grown up with various tales of Robin Hood, via books and TV series' these books took me back to my childhood, but with a twist. Steven has made a famous folklore character come alive, along with his band of "merry men" and given them all lives away from the "greenwood". Each book gives us more insight into the famous characters we all know and love and keeps us gripped from start to finish, with fights, murders, friendships made and broken, love storys and everything inbetween. The whole story kept me enthralled from start to finish and the ending left me thinking and wanting more!
December 29, 2017
Another good story in the series.
He’s not a professional writer and it shows in a good way.
He tells a good story and it’s well written but some of the polish that you get with hundreds of by-the-numbers thrillers isn’t there. And often all the better for it. The writing is interesting and feels raw. Like an early album before a band sold out and just wrote the hits. I enjoyed it. Good luck on your next series Stephen.
He’s not a professional writer and it shows in a good way.
He tells a good story and it’s well written but some of the polish that you get with hundreds of by-the-numbers thrillers isn’t there. And often all the better for it. The writing is interesting and feels raw. Like an early album before a band sold out and just wrote the hits. I enjoyed it. Good luck on your next series Stephen.
August 31, 2017
Another good read, though not as full of action as some of the earlier ones in the series...
A good read and, to be honest, I did keep reading even when I should have been going to sleep. That said the action want as full ad some of the earlier books in the series and at times I read on to get back to a meatier bit of the story.
A good read and, to be honest, I did keep reading even when I should have been going to sleep. That said the action want as full ad some of the earlier books in the series and at times I read on to get back to a meatier bit of the story.
January 20, 2018
The final book in what has been a gritty, realistic feeling thriller of a series that tells an alternative version of the Robin Hood tales.
It's a really good read (as have been the previous three) and you'll find it hard to put down from start to finish. I'm going to miss this series but am really looking forward to where Steven will take us with his forthcoming Druid series.
It's a really good read (as have been the previous three) and you'll find it hard to put down from start to finish. I'm going to miss this series but am really looking forward to where Steven will take us with his forthcoming Druid series.
March 31, 2020
The author wraps his excellent Robin Hood series in this fourth and final book with a new enemy for Robin to vanquish. This reader would have preferred a little less emphasis on violent rape and more character development, but that's merely personal taste. As always, an exciting adventure, very well told.
October 28, 2017
Loved the series
I enjoyed another take on the Robin Hood saga. Earthy, exciting and fun getting to know these familiar characters more. Not terribly in depth or emotionally involving but fun nonetheless.
I enjoyed another take on the Robin Hood saga. Earthy, exciting and fun getting to know these familiar characters more. Not terribly in depth or emotionally involving but fun nonetheless.
April 13, 2019
Great series!
I read all four books straight through. Couldn't put them down! McKay did an excellent job of making his characters intriguing and wove them into an excellent storyline. I highly recommend these books to everyone who enjoys historically based fiction.
I read all four books straight through. Couldn't put them down! McKay did an excellent job of making his characters intriguing and wove them into an excellent storyline. I highly recommend these books to everyone who enjoys historically based fiction.
December 20, 2019
Wish it didn't end
This book and series is captivating. It takes you back to Nottingham and you feel as if you are in Robin Hood's gang. The characters and the story pull you in and you can't put it down.
This book and series is captivating. It takes you back to Nottingham and you feel as if you are in Robin Hood's gang. The characters and the story pull you in and you can't put it down.
September 26, 2021
Superb story
I thought to just try one book, but the author wove a good storyline through them all. This final book has been a great read and I have found it hard to put down. I would thoroughly recommend this series, as the stories are great and the characters are believable.
I thought to just try one book, but the author wove a good storyline through them all. This final book has been a great read and I have found it hard to put down. I would thoroughly recommend this series, as the stories are great and the characters are believable.
March 21, 2017
I wish I had more stars to award this one. The final book in the Forest Lord series is the best yet. I have enjoyed them all and was so sad as the pages dwindled down to finish this.
The best, most gritty and believable retelling of Robin Hood's stories I've read yet. The plotting is tight, tension building to the brilliant climax.
The best, most gritty and believable retelling of Robin Hood's stories I've read yet. The plotting is tight, tension building to the brilliant climax.
May 15, 2017
A fantastic final installment in an entertaining series. I will go search out the novellas next. Hated for it to end but I enjoyed the story a lot.
May 18, 2017
Well, what can I say? A great end to the series. I loved the writing style and this book had the same good pace as the previous books. Great work.
July 25, 2018
Good read
Glad for the ending. Did not really happen but still enjoyed reading the book. Just got what a person needs at end ofday.
Glad for the ending. Did not really happen but still enjoyed reading the book. Just got what a person needs at end ofday.
October 10, 2018
Last one in the Hood
Enjoyed this book though not as good as first three.
Enjoyed seeing Robin within the law and how difficult that was.
Shame this is the end.
Enjoyed this book though not as good as first three.
Enjoyed seeing Robin within the law and how difficult that was.
Shame this is the end.
November 29, 2018
Last in the series? Good storytelling. Would like more from this author.
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