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Pendragon's Banner #2
Pendragon's Banner
The second in the "Pendragon's Banner" trilogy, a retelling of the story of King Arthur. The newly-crowned king of Britain stands with Gwenhwyfar, his queen, at his side. There are hard times ahead for both of them, not least because Arthur has failed to deal decisively with certain old enemies.
558 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 1996
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August 30, 2016
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Hollick’s Pendragon series set out to tell a more realistic story of the Arthurian Legend and she certainly accomplished that. The downside to reading King Arthur books is that most of time, you already know what’s coming but with this series, you’re never quite sure. Hollick took full advantage of letting loose her creativity.
At the same time, there are many of the more classic elements that we all know of the legend, just not always exactly how we know them. The thing about folklore is, of course, that it’s told orally for generations, even centuries, before it’s written down so in theory, if Arthur were a real historical figure or based on one, you would actually have to assume that the legend we know today was warped and evolved over time. Hollick seems to have set out writing with this in mind, building a story where nearly all the classic elements are there but many of them are not exactly how we know them, crafting a believable idea of how this element was warped into that or that character got confused with this.
And yet the story doesn’t feel contrived or reverse engineered. The characters are fleshed out and the story is unpredictable. I can’t wait to read the final book and see where Hollick takes it next.
Hollick’s Pendragon series set out to tell a more realistic story of the Arthurian Legend and she certainly accomplished that. The downside to reading King Arthur books is that most of time, you already know what’s coming but with this series, you’re never quite sure. Hollick took full advantage of letting loose her creativity.
At the same time, there are many of the more classic elements that we all know of the legend, just not always exactly how we know them. The thing about folklore is, of course, that it’s told orally for generations, even centuries, before it’s written down so in theory, if Arthur were a real historical figure or based on one, you would actually have to assume that the legend we know today was warped and evolved over time. Hollick seems to have set out writing with this in mind, building a story where nearly all the classic elements are there but many of them are not exactly how we know them, crafting a believable idea of how this element was warped into that or that character got confused with this.
And yet the story doesn’t feel contrived or reverse engineered. The characters are fleshed out and the story is unpredictable. I can’t wait to read the final book and see where Hollick takes it next.
September 28, 2010
Pendragon's Banner is book two in this King Arthur trilogy. As often happens with the middle book in a trilogy, I just don't love it as much as the first. I guess it's because things happen, but not as many thing happen as in the first book. The characters just aren't as fresh and you know that the story hasn't reached fruition yet. That's not to say that nothing happens - there is a lot of tragedy at this point in King Arthur's reign as Arthur works tirelessly to consolidate his power and to rout out his enemies.
The problem I had is that while I enjoyed the novel, I just didn't tear through it as quickly as I normally do. I think this is because I really don't like Arthur all that much. He's selfish and ruthless and he's a pretty terrible husband. I realize that Hollick is trying to show what Arthur may have been like, given his historical role and the context of his reign. But I wish Arthur would have been more likeable.
Notwithstanding my mixed feelings, I do intend to finish this trilogy. I think the idea of how Arthur forged his empire is fascinating. I also really like to consider what the Dark Ages may have been like. I hope, though, that the third installment is a bit more "magical" for me than this middle installment.
The problem I had is that while I enjoyed the novel, I just didn't tear through it as quickly as I normally do. I think this is because I really don't like Arthur all that much. He's selfish and ruthless and he's a pretty terrible husband. I realize that Hollick is trying to show what Arthur may have been like, given his historical role and the context of his reign. But I wish Arthur would have been more likeable.
Notwithstanding my mixed feelings, I do intend to finish this trilogy. I think the idea of how Arthur forged his empire is fascinating. I also really like to consider what the Dark Ages may have been like. I hope, though, that the third installment is a bit more "magical" for me than this middle installment.
January 7, 2015
Pendragon’s Banner is the second book in an Arthurian trilogy by Helen Hollick. The first book, The Kingmaking, shows how Arthur as a young teenager grows and comes to power as the High King of Britain. The second book shows how Arthur handles the position once he is there, as he must manage the affairs of the entire realm and play the dangerous game of politics to hold onto his throne.
Arthur is rivaled on many sides by his enemies: his ex-wife, Winifred; his father’s mistress, Morgause; Lot (Morgause’s husband) and the Picti in the north; and his uncle Ambrosius.
Winifred believes her son Cerdic to be the rightful heir to Britain and will do anything in her power to bring down Arthur and his wife Gwenhwyfar and their three sons. Morgause despises Arthur and wants vengeance and uses her husband Lot to carry out her bidding. And Ambrosius, while not exactly an enemy of Arthur, still clings to the old Roman ways and makes life difficult for Arthur politically.
Hollick’s series attempts to portray the real life Arthur, not the man of legends. Arthur is, like any other warrior, hardened from war and skilled in battle, but this novel shows a more sensitive side of Arthur than did The Kingmaking. There are times when it seems Arthur wants to give up on being king, and his life as ruler makes things difficult on his marriage. Gwenhwyfar, who is more of a warrior herself in the first novel, seems only to want peace for her family and for Arthur to stay at home with them. They have three children, and Gwenhwyfar seems content to stay at home and raise her family. The constant traveling of Arthur and the threat on her sons’ lives by Winifred drives a perpetual wedge between her and her husband.
I enjoyed how Hollick rounds out her characters even more in this novel. Where I liked Gwenhwyfar more in the first novel, there were aspects about her in this one I did not care for. And vice versa with Arthur. I actually felt more attached to him in Pendragon’s Banner because I felt Hollick showed a more human side of him. Also — for some reason – there were times in The Kingmaking I felt sorry for Winifred. Not so in this novel. Creating these reversals and fluctuations of feelings toward the characters is — in my mind — what makes the sign of a good author. I also was glad Hollick brought back Morgause and gave her a more prominent role. Morgause’s character generates important conflict in the story.
Overall — even with the stronger development of the characters — I enjoyed the story of The Kingmaking more. There were times in Pendragon’s Banner where the plot lumbered along a bit, and some of the scenes felt contrived to me, like they were put there for sole purpose of generating some sort of conflict or action but did not truly enhance the characters of plot in any meaningful way. Regardless, Hollick is a talented writer, and her trilogy is worth the read. She has a strong grasp on early medieval Britain and the man who was Arthur.
Arthur is rivaled on many sides by his enemies: his ex-wife, Winifred; his father’s mistress, Morgause; Lot (Morgause’s husband) and the Picti in the north; and his uncle Ambrosius.
Winifred believes her son Cerdic to be the rightful heir to Britain and will do anything in her power to bring down Arthur and his wife Gwenhwyfar and their three sons. Morgause despises Arthur and wants vengeance and uses her husband Lot to carry out her bidding. And Ambrosius, while not exactly an enemy of Arthur, still clings to the old Roman ways and makes life difficult for Arthur politically.
Hollick’s series attempts to portray the real life Arthur, not the man of legends. Arthur is, like any other warrior, hardened from war and skilled in battle, but this novel shows a more sensitive side of Arthur than did The Kingmaking. There are times when it seems Arthur wants to give up on being king, and his life as ruler makes things difficult on his marriage. Gwenhwyfar, who is more of a warrior herself in the first novel, seems only to want peace for her family and for Arthur to stay at home with them. They have three children, and Gwenhwyfar seems content to stay at home and raise her family. The constant traveling of Arthur and the threat on her sons’ lives by Winifred drives a perpetual wedge between her and her husband.
I enjoyed how Hollick rounds out her characters even more in this novel. Where I liked Gwenhwyfar more in the first novel, there were aspects about her in this one I did not care for. And vice versa with Arthur. I actually felt more attached to him in Pendragon’s Banner because I felt Hollick showed a more human side of him. Also — for some reason – there were times in The Kingmaking I felt sorry for Winifred. Not so in this novel. Creating these reversals and fluctuations of feelings toward the characters is — in my mind — what makes the sign of a good author. I also was glad Hollick brought back Morgause and gave her a more prominent role. Morgause’s character generates important conflict in the story.
Overall — even with the stronger development of the characters — I enjoyed the story of The Kingmaking more. There were times in Pendragon’s Banner where the plot lumbered along a bit, and some of the scenes felt contrived to me, like they were put there for sole purpose of generating some sort of conflict or action but did not truly enhance the characters of plot in any meaningful way. Regardless, Hollick is a talented writer, and her trilogy is worth the read. She has a strong grasp on early medieval Britain and the man who was Arthur.
September 26, 2012
Arthur is now king of Britain but discovers it’s far from secure. Now he has to find the way to keep it and to get the loyalty of his people. Arthur tries seek peace and tries to make offers on agreeable terms, but his men and his wife doesn’t always understand his reasons and this causes fractions on his marriage on the way.
It’s been too long since I read the first book and I had no idea how the last book ended. But I do remember thinking the first half of the book was ok but really liked the second half. I think this one was better and it was gripping from the start.
I haven’t read much about Arthur but I like how the people are described here. There’s no magic or fantasy elements and it feels real. I love the relationship between Arthur and Gwenhwyfar; it wasn’t an easy marriage and it sure had its rocky patches but I love it’s not all happily ever after – stuff. Arthur can be an asshole, numerous times, and he sure loves women but it sounds more realistic than that they both were faithful. Doesn’t stop me wanting to smack him so many times but believable.
I really enjoyed this and I’m looking forward reading the last book of the trilogy.
It’s been too long since I read the first book and I had no idea how the last book ended. But I do remember thinking the first half of the book was ok but really liked the second half. I think this one was better and it was gripping from the start.
I haven’t read much about Arthur but I like how the people are described here. There’s no magic or fantasy elements and it feels real. I love the relationship between Arthur and Gwenhwyfar; it wasn’t an easy marriage and it sure had its rocky patches but I love it’s not all happily ever after – stuff. Arthur can be an asshole, numerous times, and he sure loves women but it sounds more realistic than that they both were faithful. Doesn’t stop me wanting to smack him so many times but believable.
I really enjoyed this and I’m looking forward reading the last book of the trilogy.
August 29, 2024
I had to DRAG myself through this book. The first bit was fine. But it just went on repeat and never ended.
It would have been more enjoyable to just sit and read through without interruption. But I can't as a mom.
There were so many. Freaking. Names. They were similar and hard to keep track of.
Child loss. Adultery. War. Sleeping in mud.
On repeat for 400+ pages. 💀
Next time I encounter a book like this, I'm quitting and still counting it as a read.
It would have been more enjoyable to just sit and read through without interruption. But I can't as a mom.
There were so many. Freaking. Names. They were similar and hard to keep track of.
Child loss. Adultery. War. Sleeping in mud.
On repeat for 400+ pages. 💀
Next time I encounter a book like this, I'm quitting and still counting it as a read.
January 10, 2025
Nowhere near as good the first book. Arthur has become p--sy-whipped by pretty much every woman but his wife! (and has sex with them, as well) As well as a hothead who constantly loses his temper and shows poor judgement. Yet somehow he manages to win in the end anyhow. Not sure whether I want to read the 3rd in the trilogy or not. And if I read one more time that Gwenhwyfar has "gold-copper hair" and "green eyes with flecks of gold" I think I might vomit!
September 20, 2010
This book deals with Arthur trying to build his kingdom as he and Gwen raise their family with the constant threat of enemies and the lingering shadow of Morgause and Winifried. Their relationship is strained with the death of their children and the constant military campaigns that are waged yet somehow they always find their way back to each other.
As stated before, one of the things I love about this book is that it stays away from the bastardisation of the legends that the French did to it in the middle-ages and keeps it very much a Dark Ages book, set in the Dark Ages but even with that, I do sometimes feel that it would have benefited from staying even closer to the original legends. In the original fables the significance of Gwenhywfar was that she was almost considered the goddess of Britain and she would choose who would become king - this was why men competed for her, and why her marriage to Arthur was so significant - their love was symbolic. This Arthur put his kingship above Gwenhwyfar and although he loves her, he refuses to stay loyal to her. Perhaps it's maybe modern ideals influencing this but I find it hard to reconcile that a man would whore about the way this Arthur does if he loves his wife the way that he says he does. In one scene in this book we have him sleeping with his wife, waiting until she's asleep and then leaving to go and meet a whore. Admittedly he is going for information, but he still sleeps with her. In the morning when Gwenhywfar confronts him, he proudly admits that not only did he sleep with her, but that he also enjoyed it.
I just have a love/hate relationship with this Arthur. He is a cruel, vicious, manipulative, lying, manwhore who on every level should be abhorrent, yet for whatever reason, I still like him and it frustrates me that I do. I have no interest in reading about him whoring around and trying to justify it while hearing him tell Gwen that if she ever cheats on him that he'll kill her on the spot, yet that's what we get and although it makes me want to scream, I have no idea why I still can't hate him. It's one of these weird mysteries, and I give credit to Hollick for it.
Watching them lose five children is hard and after the initial deep heartbreak it's actually hard to see how they begin to just accept it happen. Gwen's words at the end about how she's almost happy, because no she doesn't have to worry about anything happening to them now is sad, but true as Arthur's son Cerdic is lurking along with a new son he bore with Morgaine, his half sister (although in fairness to his manwhoring ways he didn't know she was his sister at the time thankfully! Although if he sleeps with her in the next book...*shudder*) who Gwenhwyfar knows nothing of. The book left with their eldest son murdered, Gwen having killed Morgause and the country at peace but as the next book deals with the resolution of the legend I can kinda guess how it all goes down.
Now excuse me, I have to go and see if setting the over/under at 6 about the number of times King Arthur cheats on Gwenhywfar in the next Pendragon book was optimistic or not. ;)
I wrote that before I started reading it and I gotta say, I was closer than I hoped I'd be. I counted 3 that we knew of with the insinuation about more. ;)
As stated before, one of the things I love about this book is that it stays away from the bastardisation of the legends that the French did to it in the middle-ages and keeps it very much a Dark Ages book, set in the Dark Ages but even with that, I do sometimes feel that it would have benefited from staying even closer to the original legends. In the original fables the significance of Gwenhywfar was that she was almost considered the goddess of Britain and she would choose who would become king - this was why men competed for her, and why her marriage to Arthur was so significant - their love was symbolic. This Arthur put his kingship above Gwenhwyfar and although he loves her, he refuses to stay loyal to her. Perhaps it's maybe modern ideals influencing this but I find it hard to reconcile that a man would whore about the way this Arthur does if he loves his wife the way that he says he does. In one scene in this book we have him sleeping with his wife, waiting until she's asleep and then leaving to go and meet a whore. Admittedly he is going for information, but he still sleeps with her. In the morning when Gwenhywfar confronts him, he proudly admits that not only did he sleep with her, but that he also enjoyed it.
I just have a love/hate relationship with this Arthur. He is a cruel, vicious, manipulative, lying, manwhore who on every level should be abhorrent, yet for whatever reason, I still like him and it frustrates me that I do. I have no interest in reading about him whoring around and trying to justify it while hearing him tell Gwen that if she ever cheats on him that he'll kill her on the spot, yet that's what we get and although it makes me want to scream, I have no idea why I still can't hate him. It's one of these weird mysteries, and I give credit to Hollick for it.
Watching them lose five children is hard and after the initial deep heartbreak it's actually hard to see how they begin to just accept it happen. Gwen's words at the end about how she's almost happy, because no she doesn't have to worry about anything happening to them now is sad, but true as Arthur's son Cerdic is lurking along with a new son he bore with Morgaine, his half sister (although in fairness to his manwhoring ways he didn't know she was his sister at the time thankfully! Although if he sleeps with her in the next book...*shudder*) who Gwenhwyfar knows nothing of. The book left with their eldest son murdered, Gwen having killed Morgause and the country at peace but as the next book deals with the resolution of the legend I can kinda guess how it all goes down.
Now excuse me, I have to go and see if setting the over/under at 6 about the number of times King Arthur cheats on Gwenhywfar in the next Pendragon book was optimistic or not. ;)
I wrote that before I started reading it and I gotta say, I was closer than I hoped I'd be. I counted 3 that we knew of with the insinuation about more. ;)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2015
I really enjoyed this second installment in the Pendragon trilogy, although admittedly not quite as much as I did the first. Character development was crucial in the first novel and I was blown away by the author's skill in creating Arthur and Gwenhwyfar. This novel has the two firmly placed as individuals within the context of the time period and we follow the timeline of Arthur's various battles and struggles. This is not to say that this storyline wasn't an enjoyable read, it was, but the awe I felt at the way in which Arthur and Gwenhwyfar were portrayed in the first novel wasn't nearly as heightened with this one. I'm still just as firmly set in my thinking as I was before I started reading (in summary Arthur's a brute, with Gwenhwyfar being the true hero of the tale!)
It's very hard for me to review this novel without spoilers, but in short the tragedy which befalls the pair really pulled on my heartstrings and again made me place myself firmly in Gwenhwyfar's camp. I find myself rooting for Arthur merely because she does.
I look forward to the final installment now that certain key players have been removed from the tale, plus new ones added to the mix. I'm excited to see how these new faces interplay with Arthur, Gwenhwyfar and their followers.
It's very hard for me to review this novel without spoilers, but in short the tragedy which befalls the pair really pulled on my heartstrings and again made me place myself firmly in Gwenhwyfar's camp. I find myself rooting for Arthur merely because she does.
I look forward to the final installment now that certain key players have been removed from the tale, plus new ones added to the mix. I'm excited to see how these new faces interplay with Arthur, Gwenhwyfar and their followers.
October 4, 2017
It’s hard to review the second book in a trilogy when all you want to say is more of the same! I loved Pendragon’s Banner, and as with the first book was swept along by the story telling and characters. This Arthur is no parfit gentil knight; he’s a man of war and as such he is perfectly capable of committing atrocities and hiding behind the time-honoured excuse that war makes them necessary. He is often brutal in his personal relations too. I don’t like or admire him, but the author has done a brilliant job of making me want to understand him. Whatever else Arthur is, he is not one-dimensional: there’s love and loss too, and his relationship with Gwenhyfar is complex – especially as she is no mere shadow. The versatile writing reflects these paradoxes in the skilful handling of scenes ranging from the horror of battle to the beauty of the landscape.
After a bit of an enforced wait, I’m about to start the third book in this series and can’t wait to get back to it!
After a bit of an enforced wait, I’m about to start the third book in this series and can’t wait to get back to it!
September 15, 2014
This second book follows on from "The Kingmaking" It does not disappoint! Another brilliant and down to earth novel which had me once more completely immersed in the continuing story. The characters are very realistic. Arthur, now in his early twenties, fights to hold onto his Kingship. His strength of character is tried and tested and in his personal life, the tensions between the main characters are complex. His two enemies, his bitter ex wife Winifred and Morgause who is "Queen of the North" are his biggest threats. and Gwenhwyfar his greatest love. Vivid and realistic writing from Helen Hollick once more.
October 25, 2009
King Arthur has married his second wife, Gwenhwyfar. His first wife was determined to overthrow her husband and place her son in his seat of power. One minor problem is that Arthur has impregnated several other women. Will he be able to weed out the traitors and make it to the top at all costs?
King Arthur has always interested me. I love sword fights and battles with courageous men. This is an action-packed book that includes blood, guts, gore and tons of lies, lust and greed. This is a book that has a little bit of everything and the writing is superb.
King Arthur has always interested me. I love sword fights and battles with courageous men. This is an action-packed book that includes blood, guts, gore and tons of lies, lust and greed. This is a book that has a little bit of everything and the writing is superb.
December 28, 2017
In this second book of the Pendragon's Banner trilogy, Arthur Pendragon comes of age on the field of battle and in the often even deadlier circle of leadership that was Dark Ages Britain. This series presents the reader with a much grittier and humanized version of King Arthur than the traditional legends ever did. He has all the weaknesses and foibles of most mortals. In some places, I felt he was too cold and cruel but maybe that is what makes him the leader he needs to be. This was a cruel era and no doubt required a cruel leader.
At first I was somewhat put off by the attention the author paid to love triangles and other romantic conflicts but as I got deeper into the story I could see where those subplots add a richer substance to the overall story. Some of the women in this saga are every bit as cruel as some of the men, but all have a steely toughness about them that I admire.
All in all, the Pendragon's Banner series is worth the time to read. These are not short books (Book two is almost 600 pages and Book 3 is over 800), but they are compelling enough to hold the reader's interest.
At first I was somewhat put off by the attention the author paid to love triangles and other romantic conflicts but as I got deeper into the story I could see where those subplots add a richer substance to the overall story. Some of the women in this saga are every bit as cruel as some of the men, but all have a steely toughness about them that I admire.
All in all, the Pendragon's Banner series is worth the time to read. These are not short books (Book two is almost 600 pages and Book 3 is over 800), but they are compelling enough to hold the reader's interest.
March 15, 2022
Good story, really fleshed out, realistic characters but the battle depictions are really weak or non-existent especially when compared to other authors in the historical fiction genre. We are told again and again what a great warrior Arthur is yet the battle scenes are grossed over and weak, no tactics, no blood, deaths are not explained etc.
April 3, 2020
There's maybe something about the second volumes of trilogies, but this part of the Pendragon's Banner series has never grabbed me quite as much as the first and last. But that could because I've recently re-read it, knowing what comes next?
January 11, 2022
Lots of adventure but also realistic. I love Gwenhyfar and Arthur's characterisation. Love that the story is told in the style of what the historical Arthur could have been, especially without stupid Lancelot!
October 26, 2017
Read this, enjoyed it, and then found out it was the second part of a series.
November 28, 2018
Pentagon's Banner Review!!!!!
This is the second book in the series! I enjoyed it as much as the first book. It is a Arthurian telling!!
This is the second book in the series! I enjoyed it as much as the first book. It is a Arthurian telling!!
July 30, 2019
I enjoyed this second entry. I appreciate this historical fiction of King Arthur.
However, it did get repetitive at times with several of the plot points.
Still, I will be reading the third one.
However, it did get repetitive at times with several of the plot points.
Still, I will be reading the third one.
February 5, 2020
Some disjointedness. Lots of rousing mayhem. A view of Arthur with solid research to support this story.
October 31, 2022
Excellent storytelling and well-researched.
November 4, 2023
An engaging continuation of the story of King Arthur. In my opinion he should have executed Morgause! The deaths of his and Gwenhwyfar’s sons is heartbraeaking!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2024
This book is easily 100 pages too long and this edition is badly edited. The story is fine but repetitive.
January 1, 2025
An intriguing read set in Arthurian times
October 17, 2025
Probably a 3.5. I feel like the story could be shorter, some parts were a drudgery.
November 5, 2009
In Pendragon’s Banner, by Helen Hollick, the tale of Arthur, the grand King and warrior, holds no place for Lancelot-types and ladies in distress. In this meaty epic, you’ll find a hero in the midst of endless battles, strong-willed women, questionable loyalty, heart-wrenching deaths, and true love.
Arthur possessed not only those majestic qualities loved in a king that’s hero; he was also capable of extreme emotions and actions that could destroy, refute (as in the case of his first son by Winifred…I had a very hard time understanding this…) and could also literally ‘dispose of’ mercilessly as a means to an end. Those passages led to very intense reading- where I just could not put the book down.
I appreciated the author’s realistic in –the- times approach to this King Arthur who also proved to be endearing and vulnerable when it came to true love. I admired Arthur for the ruler and lover he was (though some of his swaying motives lost him some points…but those were different times…). Hollick brought her characters to life –drawing me to strong emotions, precisely, I imagine, as intended. Her portrayal led me to despise and wish cruelty on the venomous Morgause; understand the validity of Winifred’s motives, while disliking her altogether; and then, there was Gwenhwyfar…
For me, she was the real heroine of this novel. I must admit that although I passionately read through the battle scenes, scheming plots, horrifying situations and the saddest of deaths-It was Gwen who kept me hooked to the storyline. What a heroine! In Pendragon’s Banner, Gwenhwyfar is strong, loyal, incredibly skilled mentally and physically (she could whip a sword as well as any Artoriani!) Her devotion, as well as her determination proved unshakeable in the worst of fates. Her fiery temper was no less passionate in the face of love for her husband and children. In all her intensity, Gwenhwyfar was also capable of great compassion, kindness and giving towards others in their time of need. Based upon Hollick’s fantastic character portrayal of Gwen in this rich novel, I have a renewed love and admiration for Arthur’s glorious Queen.
Pendragon’s Banner is a rich and gripping tale, but not without its light and often comical moments which the author interjects throughout the novel. Actions, motions and scenes are regularly described, with visual editorial type moments for vivid effect. It also helps alleviate the heavier scene being dealt with. For those who enjoy this type of thing, here’s an example:
Bottom of pg. 351, ‘Arthur slid his thumb through his sword belt, and rocked forward onto the balls of his feet and back to his heels.’
And, here’s another:
pg.312, ‘Arthur’s expression was his familiar, implacable, grim squint of right eye half shut, left eyebrow raised.’
Pendragon’s Banner, although quite chunky, is a relatively smooth read (difficult names and words have a pronunciation guide at the front). In addition, all chapters are only 3 to 4 pages long, easily readying you towards the next transition of events.
Arthurian fans will enjoy this tale portraying Arthur and his Lady in a different, yet more convincing light than ever read before.
Arthur possessed not only those majestic qualities loved in a king that’s hero; he was also capable of extreme emotions and actions that could destroy, refute (as in the case of his first son by Winifred…I had a very hard time understanding this…) and could also literally ‘dispose of’ mercilessly as a means to an end. Those passages led to very intense reading- where I just could not put the book down.
I appreciated the author’s realistic in –the- times approach to this King Arthur who also proved to be endearing and vulnerable when it came to true love. I admired Arthur for the ruler and lover he was (though some of his swaying motives lost him some points…but those were different times…). Hollick brought her characters to life –drawing me to strong emotions, precisely, I imagine, as intended. Her portrayal led me to despise and wish cruelty on the venomous Morgause; understand the validity of Winifred’s motives, while disliking her altogether; and then, there was Gwenhwyfar…
For me, she was the real heroine of this novel. I must admit that although I passionately read through the battle scenes, scheming plots, horrifying situations and the saddest of deaths-It was Gwen who kept me hooked to the storyline. What a heroine! In Pendragon’s Banner, Gwenhwyfar is strong, loyal, incredibly skilled mentally and physically (she could whip a sword as well as any Artoriani!) Her devotion, as well as her determination proved unshakeable in the worst of fates. Her fiery temper was no less passionate in the face of love for her husband and children. In all her intensity, Gwenhwyfar was also capable of great compassion, kindness and giving towards others in their time of need. Based upon Hollick’s fantastic character portrayal of Gwen in this rich novel, I have a renewed love and admiration for Arthur’s glorious Queen.
Pendragon’s Banner is a rich and gripping tale, but not without its light and often comical moments which the author interjects throughout the novel. Actions, motions and scenes are regularly described, with visual editorial type moments for vivid effect. It also helps alleviate the heavier scene being dealt with. For those who enjoy this type of thing, here’s an example:
Bottom of pg. 351, ‘Arthur slid his thumb through his sword belt, and rocked forward onto the balls of his feet and back to his heels.’
And, here’s another:
pg.312, ‘Arthur’s expression was his familiar, implacable, grim squint of right eye half shut, left eyebrow raised.’
Pendragon’s Banner, although quite chunky, is a relatively smooth read (difficult names and words have a pronunciation guide at the front). In addition, all chapters are only 3 to 4 pages long, easily readying you towards the next transition of events.
Arthurian fans will enjoy this tale portraying Arthur and his Lady in a different, yet more convincing light than ever read before.
January 30, 2010
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Though it got off to a rocky start, the second book in the Pendragon Trilogy did not disappoint! I was extremely impressed to discover that The Kingmaking was Helen Hollick's first novel. The writing, storyline and characters were superb. I loved it. So when this one started off a little awkwardly, I was upset. The narrative was clunky, the dialogue a little stilted - it just seemed to be missing that magic that captivated me in the first book. Fortunately, that feeling only lasted about thirty pages and then the author hit her stride and the book took off from there.
Arthur and Gwenhwyfar, who overcame so much to be together, are having a difficult time of it. They've spent three years leading his army all over the country, squashing small rebellions, forging alliances and reminding the people of Britain that Arthur is their supreme king. But Gwen longs for a home of her own, a safe haven in which to raise her family, and a husband who is as devoted to them as he is to ruling the country. Gwen's unhappiness and Arthur's unwillingness to compromise cause a rift to grow between them and a terrible tragedy ultimately separates them.
Both of these characters undergo growth and transformation, but particularly Arthur, and I came to care about him so much more through the course of this book. Arthur is a man who can put his emotions aside when it comes to making ruthless decisions about war and leading a kingdom, but at his heart he is very much still like that lost little boy he was when we first met him. That theme comes to the forefront of this story as he is forced to face Morgause, his father's mistress who abused Arthur as a boy, and who, in her new position of power, is determined to make him suffer as a man. And Arthur still has his evil ex-wife, Winifred to deal with as well, along with several plotting warlords who refuse to accept him as their rightful king. Now more than ever, he needs the one person he has always loved and trusted. But can they overcome their differences, the hurt they've caused each other, the fears and misgivings, to love again and unite in the face of their enemies?
This book zips along at a breakneck pace; there are some gripping battle scenes, tender love scenes, death, sadness, tears and laughter all culminating in a very satisfying ending that had me turning the last page and sighing, "Wow! What a book!"
Though it got off to a rocky start, the second book in the Pendragon Trilogy did not disappoint! I was extremely impressed to discover that The Kingmaking was Helen Hollick's first novel. The writing, storyline and characters were superb. I loved it. So when this one started off a little awkwardly, I was upset. The narrative was clunky, the dialogue a little stilted - it just seemed to be missing that magic that captivated me in the first book. Fortunately, that feeling only lasted about thirty pages and then the author hit her stride and the book took off from there.
Arthur and Gwenhwyfar, who overcame so much to be together, are having a difficult time of it. They've spent three years leading his army all over the country, squashing small rebellions, forging alliances and reminding the people of Britain that Arthur is their supreme king. But Gwen longs for a home of her own, a safe haven in which to raise her family, and a husband who is as devoted to them as he is to ruling the country. Gwen's unhappiness and Arthur's unwillingness to compromise cause a rift to grow between them and a terrible tragedy ultimately separates them.
Both of these characters undergo growth and transformation, but particularly Arthur, and I came to care about him so much more through the course of this book. Arthur is a man who can put his emotions aside when it comes to making ruthless decisions about war and leading a kingdom, but at his heart he is very much still like that lost little boy he was when we first met him. That theme comes to the forefront of this story as he is forced to face Morgause, his father's mistress who abused Arthur as a boy, and who, in her new position of power, is determined to make him suffer as a man. And Arthur still has his evil ex-wife, Winifred to deal with as well, along with several plotting warlords who refuse to accept him as their rightful king. Now more than ever, he needs the one person he has always loved and trusted. But can they overcome their differences, the hurt they've caused each other, the fears and misgivings, to love again and unite in the face of their enemies?
This book zips along at a breakneck pace; there are some gripping battle scenes, tender love scenes, death, sadness, tears and laughter all culminating in a very satisfying ending that had me turning the last page and sighing, "Wow! What a book!"
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January 17, 2016The series is called the Pendragon’s Banner and in it, Helen gives a more realistic presentation of the legend of Arthur. There are three books in the series that takes us from Arthur’s early childhood to his death. I have now finished reading all three books and can honestly say that I am just as impressed with the ending as I was with the beginning of it! In the series, Helen presents her version of many of the different stories connected with the legend. The only parts she omitted in her version were Lancelot and Merlin. She omitted these characters for a good reason! Helen chose to focus on the fragments of history and legend that made a more historical connection to events during that time period. Rather than present the mythology and symbolism of Merlin and magic or Lancelot and knights on white horses, she instead had us follow Arthur on a journey to Gaul, to parts of ancient France where the Romans were fighting a losing battle against the Franks at the time.
There in a place called Avignon, he faced betrayal and failure, along with inner demons to haunt him and cause him to not want to return to his home in Britain. While Helen insists that she is no historian, I was thoroughly impressed with her attention to historical details and those tiny fragments of documented evidence. As the series went on, I found myself immersed in those small details and spent considerable time switching from the story google those little references. Now, for some that might not be considered a plus to the story telling, but for me, it was an awesome adventure into both the story and the actual historical theories about that time period!
When I chose her series, it was for the references to actual history and she did not let me down. Her way of weaving much of that history together made a great deal of sense to me. I especially like the turn she took in weaving Cerdic the Saxon into the story. That was the part I was most interested in from the beginning anyway! Historically, Cerdic’s genealogy and lineage were sketchy and there are theories that he may have been connected to the Romano Britons in some way… Helen went with that theory and it worked!
There in a place called Avignon, he faced betrayal and failure, along with inner demons to haunt him and cause him to not want to return to his home in Britain. While Helen insists that she is no historian, I was thoroughly impressed with her attention to historical details and those tiny fragments of documented evidence. As the series went on, I found myself immersed in those small details and spent considerable time switching from the story google those little references. Now, for some that might not be considered a plus to the story telling, but for me, it was an awesome adventure into both the story and the actual historical theories about that time period!
When I chose her series, it was for the references to actual history and she did not let me down. Her way of weaving much of that history together made a great deal of sense to me. I especially like the turn she took in weaving Cerdic the Saxon into the story. That was the part I was most interested in from the beginning anyway! Historically, Cerdic’s genealogy and lineage were sketchy and there are theories that he may have been connected to the Romano Britons in some way… Helen went with that theory and it worked!
August 11, 2014
I rated this book 4/5 stars due to the fact that Gwen's passivity was completely unfathomable to me.
For a woman who was quick to anger, why was she so passive about Arthur and the many women he bedded? Only once does she let Arthur know that she knows what he was doing in the middle of the night when he left their bed to go and lay in another. One would think, what with Gwen being the Queen and all, that she would have a just as intricate spy network as her husband. It is apparent that the other women in the story, Morgeuse and Winifred, both maintain their own networks seeing as how both know exactly what is going on behind Arthur's closed doors.
As far as i could tell, the book made no mention of Gwen ever hearing about Arthur's involvement with the teen who plunged to her death and thus far, she knows nothing of Arthur bedding the teenage Lady of the Lake. (Yet Morgeuse and Winifred knew of both.) I hate to think that a part of Gwen's character falls under 'ignorance is bliss' because it seems far too naive for a woman of Gwen's age and struggles.
All of that aside, I cried when Amr died. My mothering mind was already screaming at Arthur to pay more attention to all of the boys and I hated to see my fears come to the page. Subsequently, I found myself steeling against the loss of the other boys throughout the story, much like that of Gwen and Arthur. They both adopt a 'what's done is done' mentality, and i felt that so too does the reader. This is not to say that I was 'okay' with Gwen allowing her eldest boy to ride out to battle. I honestly thought that Arthur would be angry with Gwen, berate her for allowing the boy outside of the gates and to ride to war, especially since the Pendragon future was resting on such young shoulders. However, this was not the case and I was glad that Arthur maintained his temper for once and healed through the loss alongside his wife.
For a woman who was quick to anger, why was she so passive about Arthur and the many women he bedded? Only once does she let Arthur know that she knows what he was doing in the middle of the night when he left their bed to go and lay in another. One would think, what with Gwen being the Queen and all, that she would have a just as intricate spy network as her husband. It is apparent that the other women in the story, Morgeuse and Winifred, both maintain their own networks seeing as how both know exactly what is going on behind Arthur's closed doors.
As far as i could tell, the book made no mention of Gwen ever hearing about Arthur's involvement with the teen who plunged to her death and thus far, she knows nothing of Arthur bedding the teenage Lady of the Lake. (Yet Morgeuse and Winifred knew of both.) I hate to think that a part of Gwen's character falls under 'ignorance is bliss' because it seems far too naive for a woman of Gwen's age and struggles.
All of that aside, I cried when Amr died. My mothering mind was already screaming at Arthur to pay more attention to all of the boys and I hated to see my fears come to the page. Subsequently, I found myself steeling against the loss of the other boys throughout the story, much like that of Gwen and Arthur. They both adopt a 'what's done is done' mentality, and i felt that so too does the reader. This is not to say that I was 'okay' with Gwen allowing her eldest boy to ride out to battle. I honestly thought that Arthur would be angry with Gwen, berate her for allowing the boy outside of the gates and to ride to war, especially since the Pendragon future was resting on such young shoulders. However, this was not the case and I was glad that Arthur maintained his temper for once and healed through the loss alongside his wife.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2009
Once again, Helen Hollick gives us a wonderful addition to King Arthur's story. Arthur started in The Kingmaking as a teenager - not even knowing that he was the heir to the throne. In Pendragon's Banner, he is not only King, but husband and father - and battling to do justice to all those roles.
Arthur has married Gwenhwyfar and with their children they have traveled, eventually settling at Caer Cadan. The traveling and Arthur's "wandering" have taken a toll on his and Gwenhwyfar's marriage. Add to the fact that Gwenhwyfar was also very intelligent and was somewhat a warrior herself - coming from a long line of warriors - there was bound to be conflict between the two. Even though they were estranged, they manage to come back together. Arthur is also battling his first wife, Winifred, and Morgause who has cursed his children if Arthur should ever come after her.
This book covers about 6 years but it does not lack for political struggles, battles, infidelity, romance. What you will not find though is Merlin or Excalibur or the Knights of the Round Table. This is historical fiction without all the fantasy - a King Arthur we can believe might really have lived.
I enjoyed this second installment of Pendragon's Banner as much as I did the first - but I found it hard to try to sum up. Most of this information is new to me, as I was never a big fan of the King Arthur stories. I am, however, a big fan of Helen Hollick's books and am looking forward to the re-release of the third book in this series next year.
Arthur has married Gwenhwyfar and with their children they have traveled, eventually settling at Caer Cadan. The traveling and Arthur's "wandering" have taken a toll on his and Gwenhwyfar's marriage. Add to the fact that Gwenhwyfar was also very intelligent and was somewhat a warrior herself - coming from a long line of warriors - there was bound to be conflict between the two. Even though they were estranged, they manage to come back together. Arthur is also battling his first wife, Winifred, and Morgause who has cursed his children if Arthur should ever come after her.
This book covers about 6 years but it does not lack for political struggles, battles, infidelity, romance. What you will not find though is Merlin or Excalibur or the Knights of the Round Table. This is historical fiction without all the fantasy - a King Arthur we can believe might really have lived.
I enjoyed this second installment of Pendragon's Banner as much as I did the first - but I found it hard to try to sum up. Most of this information is new to me, as I was never a big fan of the King Arthur stories. I am, however, a big fan of Helen Hollick's books and am looking forward to the re-release of the third book in this series next year.
October 29, 2009
I thoroughly enjoyed Helen Hollick's retelling of this early part of King Arthur's life. Unlike the medieval Arthur who seemed focused on the crusades and the older King who would hold festivals and jousts, the Arthur that we meet in Pendragon's Banner is a young king occupied with winning battles - much of the book is devoted to wresting control of his territory and keeping the land from invaders. Hollick's Arthur is deep into the work of creating his kingdom. He does not yet have his own castle, his Camelot and his round table is just a glimmer of a thought. He must still go through a great deal before establishing himself as the King Arthur of legend, but we can see from the man that he is in Pendragon's Banner the king that he will become.
It is easy to care for Arthur, his loyal and skilled Artoriani and his loyal wife Gwenhywyfar. When they face the cunning and treachery of Arthur's longtime enemy Morgause, it make for a gripping tale and a satisfying read.
Hollick weaves in bits of the Arthurian legend, details of the man that hint at his life and legend as king. Plus, Hollick's fight scenes are gripping and well done - and as enjoyable as those found in a good Bernard Cornwell tale.
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (September 2009), 496 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
It is easy to care for Arthur, his loyal and skilled Artoriani and his loyal wife Gwenhywyfar. When they face the cunning and treachery of Arthur's longtime enemy Morgause, it make for a gripping tale and a satisfying read.
Hollick weaves in bits of the Arthurian legend, details of the man that hint at his life and legend as king. Plus, Hollick's fight scenes are gripping and well done - and as enjoyable as those found in a good Bernard Cornwell tale.
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (September 2009), 496 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
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