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Master of War #5

Scourge of Wolves

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PRE-ORDER THE NEW MASTER OF WAR NOVEL BY DAVID GILMAN, TO KILL A KING – COMING IN FEBRUARY 2024'Heart-pounding action' The Times Winter, 1361. After two decades of conflict, Edward III has finally agreed a treaty with the captive French King, John II. In return for his freedom, John has ceded vast tracts of territory to the English. But for five long years mercenary bands and belligerent lords have fought over the carcass of his kingdom. They will not give up their hard-won spoils to honour a defeated king's promises. If the English want their prize, they'll have to fight for it... Thomas Blackstone will have to fight for it. As he battles to enforce Edward's claim, Thomas Blackstone will see his name blackened, his men slaughtered, his family hunted. He will be betrayed and, once again, he'll face the might of the French army on the field. But this time there will be no English army at his back. He'll face the French alone.

514 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 14, 2017

673 people are currently reading
386 people want to read

About the author

David Gilman

48 books413 followers
David Gilman was raised in Liverpool and educated in Wales. By the time he was 16 he was driving a battered 1946 Ford, ferrying construction workers in the African bush. A variety of jobs followed in different countries: fire and rescue, forestry work, JCB driver, window dresser and professional photographer in an advertising agency. He served in the Parachute Regiment’s Reconnaissance Platoon and then worked in publishing. In 1986 he turned to full-time writing. He has written many radio and television scripts including several years of ‘A Touch of Frost’. In 2007 his ‘Danger Zone’ trilogy for YA was sold in 15 countries. The first in the series – The Devil’s Breath was long listed for the CILIP Carnegie Medal and won the French Prix Polar Jeunesse. He also writes for younger children. MONKEY and ME has been nominated for the Carnegie Medal. ‘MASTER of WAR’ is the first in a series of HF for adults that follows the fortunes of Thomas Blackstone during the 100 Years’ War. The 7th volume - 'SHADOW OF THE HAWK' is published in February 2021.
A new contemporary thriller series - THE ENGLISHMAN - was published in 2020 to critical acclaim. The second book in The Englishman series will be published in early 2022.

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5 stars
1,102 (65%)
4 stars
483 (28%)
3 stars
82 (4%)
2 stars
8 (<1%)
1 star
8 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for Kate.
1,632 reviews395 followers
January 31, 2018
It's 1362 and the Hundred Years War isn't getting easier for Sir Thomas Blackstone as he tries to protect Edward III's interests in a temporarily defeated France. Mercenaries and rogue nobles terrorise the countryside, using small towns as their forts and centres for cruelty. Violent, gory and action-packed throughout, Sir Thomas and his men fight from one crisis to the next. Don't expect to find any peace within these pages, the emphasis is firmly on military action. As you'd expect from this series, Scourge of Wolves is well-written and it's good to meet old favourites again, although whether all of them will survive the course is very uncertain. Full review to follow on For Winter Nights shortly.
Profile Image for Brian Kitchen.
Author 5 books90 followers
April 18, 2018
I have read all of David Gilman's excellent 'Master of War' and this the latest did not disappoint. In 'Scourge of Wolves', Thomas Blackstone faces his hardest challenges yet. His name is blackened, his men slaughtered and his son, Henry is hunted by assassins. He faces betrayal and has to face the might of the French without the backing of the English army. I won't give the plot away, but it is a book you can't put done once you've started to read it. Whether there will be another in the series, I don't know, but I sincerely hope that there is and look forward to reading it.
Profile Image for Rose.
376 reviews5 followers
October 24, 2018
Scourge of Wolves is an excellent installment of Master of War Series! There’s not much to say of Thomas Blackstone, I was left in wonderment! I haven’t done a novel in one sitting for quite some time. Love it!
Profile Image for C.W..
158 reviews7 followers
April 2, 2022
Since I first came across this series a couple years ago, it has quickly become a personal favorite.

Thomas Blackstone, his “bastard horse” along with a variety of more memorable characters will keep you engrossed for endless hours of entertainment.

Over the years, Blackstone has become a trusted hand and knight to the King of England. However, the shattered French government and it’s depleted men of war have nothing but contempt for the renown English knight. Though he is revered by many, he is despised by his enemies. The French who will stop at nothing in pursuing Blackstone’s demise.

Blackstone is well known for his prowess in battle while often going above and beyond for his king. In this installment, he’s been tasked with securing the recently acquired towns in France for the King of England. This task often puts Blackstone and his men in danger. Whether it’s the townspeople refusing to submit, the French army or countless bands of displaced soldiers, this task requires strength and persistence. While Blackstone takes matters into his own hands, has he gone too far this time?
Profile Image for Barefoot Gypsy Jimerson.
713 reviews56 followers
April 10, 2021
The Wolf Rides again!!!!!

Once again David Gilman delivers a outstanding read. A heart pounding journey through France with Blackstone an his men. He has to fight battles non of his choosing. Till a man's betrayal he will seek revenge to kill him, an another fight to save his son. While the Prince of France what's nothing more then Thomas's head.
Profile Image for Geoff Boxell.
Author 9 books11 followers
April 21, 2020
Firstly I must say that I re-enact a 14thC English archer, though one of a different temperament to Sir Thomas Blackstone. Because of this I have read all of the previous books in the Master of War series and even corresponded with the author, David Gilman.
Talk to those who have been to war and they will tell you that it is 90% boredom, 9% excitement and 1% sheer terror, or something like that. This book reverses the ratio and it is 90% excitement and sheer terror, mostly for those who oppose Sir Thomas. I am getting too old for combat and now only do one on one demo fights against a friend with whom I have clashed sword, buckler and dagger with for years. But, I have been in the press of battle and Gilman writes it as it is: there is no such thing as chivalry when it comes to battle. Trip, kick, pommel, throw, choke, gang up two or three to one - it is all part of the game.
In this episode of Master of War Blackstone and his men are trying to enforce the truce that King Edward III has accepted from King Jean of France and to take the allegiance of towns that France has signed over to English rule.
France is in chaos with English and French armies on the move trying to suppress the routiers and bands of discharged soldiers who owe loyalty to no-one and who are bleeding the country dry. The problem for Blackstone is that, not only do the French king and his son want him dead for personal reasons, he is oft taken for being a routier himself.
Right: what did I especially like? Well, apart from the realism, the fact that there is mention of Sir John Chandos being given Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte. Why? Well my ancestor, Sir Alan de Buxhall KG held it under Sir John and, then later, held it in his own right. You can learn more of my Sir Alan in my novel: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Daring-De...
What didn't I like? The fact that, somehow, the news of a new Master of War book had come out and yet, somehow, I didn't know about it. Fortunately my best re-enactor mate, the one I still sword fight with, saw it and gave me a copy.
Can the series be improved? Not really, though it would be nice to know what language the characters are using. Given that Blackstone has English, Norman, Gascon and German men in his following and a couple of Italian priests involved at times it could get complex I guess so I will let that matter be.
66 reviews
March 5, 2024
A guerra teve um "fim". O rei John, da França, foi liberado e voltou pra França e um acordo foi assinado com seu primo, o rei Edward, da Inglaterra. Nesse acordo, além do pagamento do resgate (feito com o dote pago pelas víboras de Milão), algumas cidades são cedidas como território para a coroa inglesa. E uma jornada é feita por homens sob a ordem do rei Edward para que essas cidades respeitassem o acordo e jurassem lealdade ao rei inglês.
Um dos homens encarregados dessa tarefa, é claro, é Thomas Blackstone. Algumas cidades, já não tendo muito com o que contar, pois a guerra trouxe muita destruição e miséria, passam facilmente para o lado inglês. Mas algumas demonstram resistência e aí Blackstone e seus homens precisam usar da força para tomar o controle da cidade e forçar com que aceitem o tratado entre as coroas.
Precisando de mais homens para está tarefa, alguns novos soldados são cedidos à Blackstone por um dos homens do rei. Mas um deles acaba traindo Blackstone e seus homens. Ele agora precisa lidar com servir ao rei ao qual ele jurou lealdade e resolver esses problemas internos em suas fileiras. E dessa vez sem poder contar com o exército inglês como auxílio.
E não tem muito mais o que sobre o plot desta obra. É bem simples assim e serve apenas de ponte para a continuação da série.
Para quem gosta de batalhas, traições e estratégias, o livro é um prato cheio pois está repleto disso do início até o final. Mas basicamente só tem isso no livro. Não tem surgimento de nenhuma trama nova (com exceção do final, que deixa brecha para ser explorada em outros volumes) e tudo o que acontece é mais do mesmo que já foi visto em livros anteriores da série. Pra mim, este é o mais fraco da série até o momento.
O único ponto positivo é o desenvolvimento de Henry Blackstone, que não aparece tanto na história, mas é nítido que ele caminha para ser um personagem que pode vir a continuar o legado do pai ou seguir por um outro caminho e ser outro personagem tão marcante quanto Thomas ou Sir Gilbert Kilbere.
Se o livro anterior era um passo atrás para reorganizar a série, este claramente parece ser um livro de transição para algo diferente do que visto até aqui, apesar de algumas pontas ainda estarem soltas esperando um desfecho e isso sempre rendeu plots para livros na série.
724 reviews
August 22, 2018
David Gilman is a master writer of medieval warfare. His series of novels involving Thomas Blackstone bring alive the world of the Hundred Years War in brutal detail and this latest novel in the series is another dramatic slice of the life of Thomas Blackstone.
Set against the background of the 1350 treaty between France and England, the novel explores the difficult task of enforcing the treaty on the ground in the devastated kingdom of France. Blackstone has been charged with enforcing French towns to acknowledge their loyalty to Edward III as they have been ceded to England in the treaty. This difficult task is made more difficult as routiers roam the countryside looking for plunder and the civil war over Brittany continues in the background. Blackstone and his son Henry are also personally threatened as the Dauphin tries to get rid of the knight who seems to present a personal challenge to France and the French monarchy.
Gilman describes the reality of medieval warfare in brutal detail and his description of fighting brings the reader right into the action as men desperately struggle to stay alive. He also emphasises time and again how important he English archer was to the success of English armies in France.
Blackstone seems under threat at the end of the novel but at the last minute he is reprieved and in a personal meeting with the King is promoted.
I look forward to the next adventure in the series with Blackstone as the Master of War under the Prince of Wales in his new role as Prince of Aquitaine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Martin.
76 reviews
June 24, 2019
.Master of Storytelling!

David Gilman back too his best in this fifth instalment in The Master of War , and the adventures of Thomas Blackstone.

I have to admit that after thoroughly enjoying the first three books in the series, I was little disappointed with the fourth, Bikers Blood and so was a little apprehensive as to where this book would go, but those doubts were quickly allayed as Scourge of Wolves brought us back to the five star ratings.

As always, superb narrative, good action and excellent characters, but the best thing and most pleasing aspect of the book was it's direction. Definitive in what it wanted to achieve from start to finish, lots of action packed inside and just an enjoyable read.

What's next Mr Gilman?
Profile Image for Ron Riley.
102 reviews4 followers
June 4, 2024
Remarkable Series

I can not say enough about the Master of War Series, this novel and especially the author, David Gilman.
I have read many of he top historical fiction works and believe this series is as good or better than most.
The storylines, character development and vivid, descriptive imagery of that medieval period is amazing.
Thomas Blackstone and his men are loyal to the core and characters to share empathy. Antagonists are vile and credible.
The greatest difference in thus series is having the chance to travel through time experiencing Blackstones' life chronologically.
So often in historical series' the story covers generations and in tis case it covers a lifetime.
I can not recommend a novel and series more highly than Master of War.
Profile Image for Viva.
1,358 reviews4 followers
October 6, 2024
Possible spoilers ahead: After a long hiatus from this series I found this book. I really enjoyed the series and some of things I enjoyed were still the same. The writing was easy to read and follow, the action was satisfying. However, there were a few things I didn't enjoy. The fighting and circumstances were a bit repetitive, Blackstone was still being chased around and a bounty around his head. I also didn't enjoy the change of POV when it changed over to his son. It wasn't really a good reason not to like the book because obviously this is what the book is about: Blackstone being chased around France and fighting and killing the French (amongst others). I decided to dnf the book at 80% because I wasn't enjoying it anymore.
686 reviews8 followers
May 26, 2021
The books are interesting as a history lesson as well as good old fashioned action/adventure books. yes, Thomas Blackstone is like Captain America and is clearly immortal, but he never seems to be any closer to finding happiness and enjoying a peaceful life. This book was less of a history lesson as there was no decisive battle, but there were still plenty of skirmishes and drama to read about and keep the interest in the book. Not a brilliant book, but I ahve read a lot worse. I will get around to the next in the series, but not rush to do this.
Profile Image for Ruth.
4,712 reviews
May 31, 2018
c2018 (14) FWFTB: 1361, Edward III, mercenary, claim, French. Awfully stirring! I love the character of Thomas Blackstone and his merry band of men. Gilbert provides just the right light touch at difficult times. Of course, one of my favourite characters had to perish but no pathos allowed. A very clever plot lightly dancing between the political and the physical. Having now sheathed my own weapon of choice, I can wholeheartedly recommend to my cohorts in the normal crew.
10 reviews
November 28, 2018
From one soldier to another

Only a soldier would write such detail .
The life of soldiers has no meaning or understanding to the public.
This is my one and only review so far and I've read hundreds of books in my time serving 15 years in the Light Infantry.
I'm 60 now and I read a book a week now
This is an outstanding series and would love it to continue
If anyone reads this you will come to the same conclusion.
David Gilman is a gifted writer .


Profile Image for Matthew McGoldrick .
46 reviews1 follower
July 4, 2024
In isolation I'd probably rate this book a 3 - there's not a lot of depth to it really, and the continued adventures and skirmishes of Thomas Blackstone and his men can sometimes feel a bit predictable and repetitive. That said, it's extremely readable and I always enjoy continuing the tales of these characters. Given the ending, and the consistency of their quality, I'm already looking forward to reading the next one soon!
Profile Image for Mark Romero.
125 reviews2 followers
August 22, 2018
Yah great book. Little sad because I've come to the end of my binge. Great action, great story. Really curious to see where the author takes it from here because of how the novel ended up. I'm not quite familiar what happens during this part of the Hundred Years War but Thomas has no shortage of enemies. (I think a crusade happens at some point)

685 reviews7 followers
March 2, 2019
Eine tolle Romanreihe, die nur zu empfehlen ist. Ein Stern Abzug bei diesem letzten Teil, da Gilman es hier nicht so gut schafft, die vergangenen Ereignisse so geschickt einzubinden wie in den anderen Teilen. Auch die Geschehnisse sind nicht ganz so zwingend wie in den vorangegangenen Romanen. Trotzdem ein würdiger Abschluss.
858 reviews3 followers
August 5, 2022
This is an enjoyable series and I think what fascinates me the most is blackstones strategies strategies to overcome overcome overwhelming odds.

In this book, Blackstone's son Henry is being pursued from his "safe" place in Italy. That provides some mystery (will he survive?) And additional excitement.

As always, a good read.
Profile Image for JournalsTLY.
468 reviews3 followers
Read
October 14, 2022
Thomas Blackstone.
Fast moving story of bravery, cunning battle planning and betrayals . Touching episode of an encounter with a leprosy afflicted knight weaved into the adrenaline of fighting and tactics.
The nobility and valour of a knight resurrected as true courage to go on living even though the once shining armour is of no use ; the courage must come from within.
147 reviews
February 17, 2024
Always a good read any book of David Gilman and this was my first story encountering Sir Thomas Blackstone.
Of course he had to win every battle, he is our hero after all but the historical detail relating to that period, the Hundred Years War ,sparked my interest
Following research lm glad l wasn't alive then.
This was an enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Steve Minnick.
136 reviews2 followers
October 20, 2024
Rousing Action!!! Wonderful Characters!!!

This is a Great story written by a Great Storyteller!!!!

I am really looking forward to reading the next installment in this series!!

David Gilman has again written a colorful historical story filled with Devotion, Love, and lots of Action!!

Come ride with Sir Thomas Blackstone!!!! You won't be disappointed!
6 reviews
July 3, 2025
Following on from the earlier Master of War books Scourge of Wolves does not disappoint with Thomas Blackstone and his companions for years battling through a chaotic France.
A fascinating insight into the troubles brought about by a peace treaty and thousands of men who knew nothing but war.
Full of pitched battles, honour v despicable, mindless brutality and treachery.
54 reviews1 follower
April 26, 2018
Richer and richer

This series is maturing like a good wine, starting out young and fresh and then continuing to improve. Gripping, dramatic, colourful characters, well-woven plots and subplots. Great stuff. Looking forward to the next book...
Profile Image for Zeth Sampson.
18 reviews1 follower
December 13, 2018
Outstanding, just read them all. When you're looking for another series to read thinking that you'll never find another as good as the last, bam, along comes another. Up there with Cornwell, Scarrow and Kane et al.
Profile Image for A.T..
125 reviews
May 9, 2019
Love this series can't wait for next book. I like the suspense, especially the end, thinking there would be an arrest of Blackstone by king Edward only to receive a promotion and royal title of Master of War
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
5 reviews
July 2, 2019
Outstanding series.

Truly enjoy reading Mr. Gilman’s series of historically-based books. Reads with ease and captivates one’s full attention. Recommend his books to anyone who enjoys such action-packed historical fiction. Surprising events unfold with each page turn.
115 reviews3 followers
April 18, 2020
Brilliant.

What an awesome series. Once I started book 1 I knew I wasn't going to be able to put them down. I was right. If you love your historical fiction, you'll love these books.
Profile Image for Kevin Gardner.
267 reviews5 followers
December 23, 2020
Master of War is a superb series of books set during the 100 years war with France, David Gilmans has quickly Risen to one of my top five historical fiction authors, his books are a action packed additions to the genre, highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews

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