Penda

by peter goodsir

In 410 AD the Roman legions marched away from Britain to bolster the numbers of the continental armies who were embroiled in a struggle that threatened the future of the empire. The fertile island was left to the protection of small militias comprised of veterans and farmers led by local chiefs. With the help of Anglo-Saxon mercenaries, invasion by the Picts was averted – but at a cost.A century later, Angles, Saxons and Jutes struck out from the lands gifted to them in the east, in an attempt to conquer more territory. They were defeated in several battles by the legendary war-leader, ARTHUR, which brought a temporary halt to the westward advance.A century later still, the Angles, Saxons and Jutes possessed the heart of the island, with the British kingdoms confined to the west and north. The Pope sent envoys to convert these new pagan princes of the island to Christian ways. The new kingdoms were locked in a power struggle, making and breaking alliances with British princes as well as other Anglo-Saxon rulers. At this time, a British princess gives birth to a boy child. The son of a chief of the Mercians (border dwellers); he is given the name Penda.From an early age, Penda is thrown into a world of magic, intrigue and ancient feuds. He soon learns that his life’s path has been planned since his birth and that he has a major destiny to fulfil.

473 pages, Paperback

First published January 7, 2014

Reviews

[Ruby Schwartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really good read! Best novel I have read for a very long time! Thoroughly entertaining! well rounded characters and a great storyline! Can't wait for the next title from this writer.

[Darryl Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read this and the two sequels in their entirety. I am very fussy about what i will read, i am quite a fan of David Gemmell. this starts a little woodenly but stick with it and you will be rewarded. i actually read the whole lot of my monitor, which i never usually do. highly recommend. I am waiting and hoping there will be more. I still have questions about the dark people, i can't find any other information or legends about them.. Very mysterious. Must Read!

[Alfred Bond · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this novel! - I've read it twice now and I am finding new levels each time. it would make a great movie!

[Julie Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was recommended to me by a friend. It wasn't my usual choice of reading and I wasn't sure at first so it took me some time to get around to reading it. I started it on a dismal, dull Saturday and found by the end of the weekend that I had devoured a good chunk of it! My affection for the characters quickly grew and I was keen to know how the story would unfold. It's graphic in places and was sufficiently descriptive to fuel my imagination. This book intrigued me and I have since looked for further reading of this period, I am fortunate to have been able to visit Sutton Hoo in East Anglia, Raedwald's lands, and have become quite interested in life and times in the 7th century. I think this book brings history to life. Read it, you'll be pleased that you have.

[dylan barter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read

I've always been interested in Penda .King of Mercia ,high king of the English and the last Pendragon of Britain . Fabulous read I couldn't put it down.