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Legends of Dark Age Wales: Cold My Heart / The Last Pendragon
Myth and legend come to life in Dark Age Wales ... Cold My Heart: Love. Magic. Faith. By the autumn of 537 AD, all who are loyal to King Arthur have retreated to a small parcel of land in north Wales. They are surrounded on all sides, heavily outnumbered, and facing near certain defeat. But Myrddin and Nell, two of the king's companions, have a secret that neither has ever been able to each has seen that on a cold and snowy day in December, Saxon soldiers sent by Modred will ambush and kill King Arthur. And together, they must decide what they are willing to do, and to sacrifice, to avert that fate.Cold My Heart in this volume includes three novels published separately Cold My Heart, The Oaken Door, and Of Men and Dragons.The Last Pendragon: Rhiann knows that demons walk the night. She has been taught to fear them. But from the moment Cade is dragged before her father's throne, beaten and having lost all of his men to her father's treachery, he stirs something inside her that she has never felt before. When Cade is revealed to be not only Arthur's heir but touched by the sidhe, Rhiann must choose between the life she left behind and the one before her--and how much she is willing to risk to follow her heart.The Last Pendragon in this volume consists of three novels published separately The Last Pendragon, The Pendragon's Blade, and Song of the Pendragon.Cold My Heart and The Last Pendragon are the first books in two different series set in Dark Age Wales!
672 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2019
1580 people are currently reading
1155 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Woodbury
162 books749 followersWith over a million books sold to date, Sarah Woodbury is the author of more than forty novels, all set in medieval Wales. Although an anthropologist by training, and then a full-time homeschooling mom for twenty years, she began writing fiction when the stories in her head overflowed and demanded that she let them out. While her ancestry is Welsh, she only visited Wales for the first time at university. She has been in love with the country, language, and people ever since. She even convinced her husband to give all four of their children Welsh names.
Sarah is a member of the Historical Authors Fiction Cooperative (HFAC), the Historical Novel Society, and Novelists, Inc. (NINC).
She makes her home in Oregon.
Sarah is a member of the Historical Authors Fiction Cooperative (HFAC), the Historical Novel Society, and Novelists, Inc. (NINC).
She makes her home in Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
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June 9, 2019🎁 FREE on iBooks today (6/9/2019)! 🎁
April 13, 2021
This title contains titles from two series: the first three of the "Lion of Wales" series of 5; and the first three of "The Last Pendragon Saga" series of eight. Opening chapters of the fourth books for each are also included.
"Lion of Wales" beginning with "Cold My Heart", continued with "The Oaken Door" and "Of Men and Dragons " covers the final months of 537AD in northwest Wales and the anticipated demise of Arthur ap Uther. Told through the voices of Myrddin, a knight, and Nell, a former nun, the action is detailed and rapid, evoking that dark period of history. Because I had visited the cathedral towns of Brecon, Bangor and St Asaph's and explored the beauty of Wales, my mind melded with the narrative.
The second series begins with "The Last Pendragon ", continuing with "The Pendragon's Blade" and "Song of the Pendragon ". Alternating points of view narrates the ascension of Cadwaladr from Rhiannon, an illegitimate princess and Cade, the High King and last Pendragon. The action occurs about 100 years after the first series. As in "Lion", the plot involves palace intrigue, but adds magic, demons, old gods and the Christ. Both have great battle and fight scenes, as well as slow-burn romance.
Woodbury has built her historic fiction around Cymry and her taken on the Arthurian legends, as well as his successor High King. In the first, the focus at a slight lower ranking colors the world as more day-to-day and behind the scenes. In the second, the major figures of Welsh nobility are more forefront. Including elements of fantasy in the latter taps the imagination.
All in all, a good read, inventive and entertaining.
"Lion of Wales" beginning with "Cold My Heart", continued with "The Oaken Door" and "Of Men and Dragons " covers the final months of 537AD in northwest Wales and the anticipated demise of Arthur ap Uther. Told through the voices of Myrddin, a knight, and Nell, a former nun, the action is detailed and rapid, evoking that dark period of history. Because I had visited the cathedral towns of Brecon, Bangor and St Asaph's and explored the beauty of Wales, my mind melded with the narrative.
The second series begins with "The Last Pendragon ", continuing with "The Pendragon's Blade" and "Song of the Pendragon ". Alternating points of view narrates the ascension of Cadwaladr from Rhiannon, an illegitimate princess and Cade, the High King and last Pendragon. The action occurs about 100 years after the first series. As in "Lion", the plot involves palace intrigue, but adds magic, demons, old gods and the Christ. Both have great battle and fight scenes, as well as slow-burn romance.
Woodbury has built her historic fiction around Cymry and her taken on the Arthurian legends, as well as his successor High King. In the first, the focus at a slight lower ranking colors the world as more day-to-day and behind the scenes. In the second, the major figures of Welsh nobility are more forefront. Including elements of fantasy in the latter taps the imagination.
All in all, a good read, inventive and entertaining.
October 3, 2021
These are two intriguing fantasy tales with roots firmly embedded in historical figures. In the same way Stephen Lawhead rejiggered the Robin Hood mythos by placing it in Wales, so Sarah Woodbury’s “Lion of Wales” books take new angle on the King Arthur legend with the Welsh setting of these tales. In this former series, her storytelling method combines flash-forward, prescient dreams with medieval knighthood and chivalry.
The books in the latter “Last Pendragon” series take on more of a fantasy vibe, with pagan gods, demons, sidhe and the like interwoven with Christian imagery. Hers is an interesting take, with the Christian faith playing a bigger part in “Lion of Wales”, while also being a significant player in “Last Pendragon”. In their final conception, neither series is primarily about the interaction of Christianity and the pagan religions prevalent among the Britons during this time period, but the interplay is nonetheless fascinating.
Normally, a reading which takes me this long to read was either 1) exceedingly long and/or 2) tedious and difficult to muddle through. Neither was the case for these books. I found it engaging and easy-to-read; on my digital Apple Books reader; I just got sidetracked and didn’t get back to it for quite a while.
If one is a sucker for historical fiction (as am I), medieval tales and the like with just a taste of romantic intrigue mixed in, one will enjoy these tales.
The books in the latter “Last Pendragon” series take on more of a fantasy vibe, with pagan gods, demons, sidhe and the like interwoven with Christian imagery. Hers is an interesting take, with the Christian faith playing a bigger part in “Lion of Wales”, while also being a significant player in “Last Pendragon”. In their final conception, neither series is primarily about the interaction of Christianity and the pagan religions prevalent among the Britons during this time period, but the interplay is nonetheless fascinating.
Normally, a reading which takes me this long to read was either 1) exceedingly long and/or 2) tedious and difficult to muddle through. Neither was the case for these books. I found it engaging and easy-to-read; on my digital Apple Books reader; I just got sidetracked and didn’t get back to it for quite a while.
If one is a sucker for historical fiction (as am I), medieval tales and the like with just a taste of romantic intrigue mixed in, one will enjoy these tales.
October 12, 2019
A bit short to be called a book
The book is well written, but it's so short. I got this in a 2 book set thinking they were part 1 & 2 of a single set of books but it was part 1 of 2 different series. The first one was a little shorter than I'd expected, but the 2nd one is more short story than a book. I have noted several novellas in the lists of her series, & have to wonder...if a book is maybe 6 or 7 relatively short chapters, how short is a novella? The length of the essay I once submitted as an entry to the national merit scholarship contest? Yet the prices run to those quoted for much longer books, many about the same subject that I have in my library at home, & which I had considered adding to my ebook collection.
The books did intrigue me, but the shorter length & comparatively high price are a bit offputting. I will have to consider carefully before I commit to buying more.
The book is well written, but it's so short. I got this in a 2 book set thinking they were part 1 & 2 of a single set of books but it was part 1 of 2 different series. The first one was a little shorter than I'd expected, but the 2nd one is more short story than a book. I have noted several novellas in the lists of her series, & have to wonder...if a book is maybe 6 or 7 relatively short chapters, how short is a novella? The length of the essay I once submitted as an entry to the national merit scholarship contest? Yet the prices run to those quoted for much longer books, many about the same subject that I have in my library at home, & which I had considered adding to my ebook collection.
The books did intrigue me, but the shorter length & comparatively high price are a bit offputting. I will have to consider carefully before I commit to buying more.
January 7, 2021
A good story
A nice unmatched double book companion that,in my opinion,should have been published in the opposite order in the volume. My only real complaint is that neither book strikes me as a finished work which makes them episodes rather than books. I have complained about this problem that many authors seem to have these days and I wish someone would listen and publish a complete work occasionally.
A nice unmatched double book companion that,in my opinion,should have been published in the opposite order in the volume. My only real complaint is that neither book strikes me as a finished work which makes them episodes rather than books. I have complained about this problem that many authors seem to have these days and I wish someone would listen and publish a complete work occasionally.
June 23, 2021
Acknowledge the Real High King !!
Most settlements in Briton and Wales formed pacts of loyalty for protection. Various kings ruled over a number of settlements, as humanly natural, each king desired to rule over the other kings. The reign follows blood lines. A well written account of the rise of the Real High King!!
Most settlements in Briton and Wales formed pacts of loyalty for protection. Various kings ruled over a number of settlements, as humanly natural, each king desired to rule over the other kings. The reign follows blood lines. A well written account of the rise of the Real High King!!
March 23, 2023
A really interesting approach to the Arthurian legend. Set in Wales, where the Britons left by the Romans seek to defend their land against Saxon incursion. The first books involve Arthur himself, as he seeks to become the High King of Wales and the second group about his descendent, denied the throne by treachery and having to defeat not only Saxons but his treacherous uncle who is supported by demons. An enjoyable and worthwhile read.
September 3, 2019
Had it not been for the second of the two tales in this book I'd have given it a 2-star review. The first tale was slow and kind of boring, but I pressed on. The second tale was much more interesting and had better pacing. I do recommend the book as the stories are part of a longer set of series. They weren't my cup of tea, but they may be yours. Check them out.
July 30, 2020
If you like legends then these are perfect
Sarah writes these as if she were there and tells a wonderfully rich and inspiring tale. King Authur fans will love these. Look forward to reading the rest of the series from these 2 books.
Sarah writes these as if she were there and tells a wonderfully rich and inspiring tale. King Authur fans will love these. Look forward to reading the rest of the series from these 2 books.
April 1, 2021
The Dark Ages in Wales come to life
Both of these books each to start a series were terrific, fast moving, well written and very difficult to put down. Definitely ordering the next books.
Both of these books each to start a series were terrific, fast moving, well written and very difficult to put down. Definitely ordering the next books.
April 5, 2021
Arthurian Myth and Magic
The beginning of two exceptional Arthurian tales set in the dark ages of Wales. Both series are full of myth and magic. Great characters and lots of action make for stories you don't want to put down.
The beginning of two exceptional Arthurian tales set in the dark ages of Wales. Both series are full of myth and magic. Great characters and lots of action make for stories you don't want to put down.
April 9, 2021
Enjoyable
A fictionalized historical look at the Dark Ages in Wales with interpretive explanations at the end. As tales pass through time, truth and fiction can become blurred especially when the accounting is mostly verbal. Interesting reading.
A fictionalized historical look at the Dark Ages in Wales with interpretive explanations at the end. As tales pass through time, truth and fiction can become blurred especially when the accounting is mostly verbal. Interesting reading.
September 22, 2023
Beginning books of two different stories, one of King Arthur and Merlin, one of The Last Pendragon. Both are excellent series for anyone a fan of the Arthur legends. Great reads, but a warning, you will want to read on in both series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2024
This is a two-book collection and I really enjoyed the first book, but then things turned darker and entered into the pagan myths and the demonic and though I finished it I will not read any more of the series.
October 22, 2019
Surprisingly well written take on established legends. No spoilers just a variation on well known characters.
March 21, 2020
Great reading
This series is great especially if you're really into mid evil and historic time. The characters seem so vivid. I hope that you enjoy
This series is great especially if you're really into mid evil and historic time. The characters seem so vivid. I hope that you enjoy
March 24, 2020
Fantastic book it has action, drama and of course love. Great read.
August 13, 2020
Legends of Wales
Very interesting journey of the history of Wales. The Author describes the characters vibrantly. Very good flow in the story.
Very interesting journey of the history of Wales. The Author describes the characters vibrantly. Very good flow in the story.
August 30, 2020
Good story line but each book is like a chapter, either it needs to be all in one book or each book needs to be more.
April 13, 2021
Gripping Yarns.
Great plots were not the only plus in these works. Authenticity in names, customs, beliefs and lifestyles put Woodbury's books on the top shelf.
Great plots were not the only plus in these works. Authenticity in names, customs, beliefs and lifestyles put Woodbury's books on the top shelf.
April 21, 2021
Very interesting book
Wales history is somewhat clearer after reading these books. I enjoyed Ms. Woodbury's interpretation of events as they may have happened. Thank you.
Wales history is somewhat clearer after reading these books. I enjoyed Ms. Woodbury's interpretation of events as they may have happened. Thank you.
January 13, 2022
this is not really about king Arthur, just a boring love story and not really in line with other Arthur tales. I didn't bother with the Pendragon story because it might be more of the same.
Read
June 9, 2022DNF. Just another Arthurian wannabe.
March 15, 2023
Lion of Wales series, books 1-3
Great read, love the characters. Will be acquiring the last two books of the series to see how the story develops and ends.
Pendragon series, books 1-3
Also a strong read, but another 5 books left in this series. May pursue reading, depending on how the last two books of the other series end up turning out.
Great read, love the characters. Will be acquiring the last two books of the series to see how the story develops and ends.
Pendragon series, books 1-3
Also a strong read, but another 5 books left in this series. May pursue reading, depending on how the last two books of the other series end up turning out.
April 23, 2024
Fantasy historical fiction is not my usual reading matter, but I truly enjoyed this series.
August 18, 2025
My review is on Facebook. The author has written a collection of serial books. The action takes place in the fifth century Wales where the Saxons have come to war. The two main characters are seerers who have the dreams: Keep Arthur alive until a date certain. The war passages are cruel.
Thank you, Ms. Woodbury, for a good read.
Thank you, Ms. Woodbury, for a good read.
February 26, 2023
Sarah Woodbury writes well, engaging the reader with provocative prose, history, action, and story.
However...This volume of "books" turned out to be a smorgasbord-taster's pick, perhaps as an introduction to her works. I was disappointed that these were only snippets of stories, not actual or entire books, not short stories or novellas. Just chunks leaving the reader in the air falling off the proverbial cliff. I'd give a better rating if it had been advertised as an advertisement for her works, or they were A collection of short stories.
I like her work, but now burned wondering if the other books are like these.
However...This volume of "books" turned out to be a smorgasbord-taster's pick, perhaps as an introduction to her works. I was disappointed that these were only snippets of stories, not actual or entire books, not short stories or novellas. Just chunks leaving the reader in the air falling off the proverbial cliff. I'd give a better rating if it had been advertised as an advertisement for her works, or they were A collection of short stories.
I like her work, but now burned wondering if the other books are like these.
June 28, 2022
To me, one of the coolest things about indie fantasy is that authors have the freedom to experiment with form in a way trad publishing doesn't allow for. That's what Woodbury does in her "Legends of Dark Age Wales" series, which is basically made up of a series of dozens of novellas, grouped loosely into books that follow individual characters in a larger, interrelated mythology. It's a cool form that gets readers closer to the style of her source texts, like the Maboginian or the Morte d'Arthur, than modern novel forms do.
Though Woodbury's retellings are nicely done and her research is rigorous, I particularly enjoyed her original characters, especially Nell. She has a talent for introducing likeable and very human figures into these epic stories, which makes them feel fresh in an unexpected way.
Though Woodbury's retellings are nicely done and her research is rigorous, I particularly enjoyed her original characters, especially Nell. She has a talent for introducing likeable and very human figures into these epic stories, which makes them feel fresh in an unexpected way.
May 8, 2021
Well written novels. I feel they could be collaborated into larger books, (more pages). I would say the books are more novella. I ended up reading all the 1st series 1-5, but due to the expense of books of only 200+ pages I didn’t feel it worth to buy the entire 2nd series. Still gave them 5 stars
July 1, 2021
Another couple of great chapters to add to the Arthurian legend. Both stories were very well written and very interesting. Full of intrigue and dark deeds, with a large dollop of the supernatural. Any fan of the legend won't fail to love these stories. Recommended reading.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews