What do you think?
Rate this book
Nottingham #2
Lionhearts
History and myth collide in Nathan Makaryk's Lionhearts, a riveting story of vengeance, redemption and war, perfect for fans of Game of Thrones.
All will be well when King Richard returns . . . but King Richard has been captured.
To raise the money for his ransom, every lord in England is raising taxes, the French are eyeing the empty throne, and the man they called, “Robin Hood,” the man the Sherriff claims is dead, is everywhere and nowhere at once.
He’s with a band of outlaws in Sherwood Forest, raiding guard outposts. He’s with Nottingham’s largest gang, committing crimes to protest the taxes. He’s in the lowest slums of the city, conducting a reign of terror against the city's most vulnerable. A hero to some, a monster to others, and an idea that can't simply be killed.
But who's really under the hood?
At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
All will be well when King Richard returns . . . but King Richard has been captured.
To raise the money for his ransom, every lord in England is raising taxes, the French are eyeing the empty throne, and the man they called, “Robin Hood,” the man the Sherriff claims is dead, is everywhere and nowhere at once.
He’s with a band of outlaws in Sherwood Forest, raiding guard outposts. He’s with Nottingham’s largest gang, committing crimes to protest the taxes. He’s in the lowest slums of the city, conducting a reign of terror against the city's most vulnerable. A hero to some, a monster to others, and an idea that can't simply be killed.
But who's really under the hood?
At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
547 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2020
About the author
Nathan Makaryk
3 books122 followersNathan is a writer, playwright, actor, director, and comedian. He is a co-owner of the Maverick Theater in Fullerton, CA, where he premiered his original play "The Legend of Robin Hood" in April 2012. This work was later developed into his debut historical epic NOTTINGHAM, published by Tor/Forge Books in August 2019.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 27, 2020
I think some books should come with explanations of what is in them.
1. Foul language should be a warning. Is it for a younger crowd? As an old, cranky person I just find it offensive and really lazy on the author's part. It's so much easier to write Fxxx you than to express those feelings in another manner. Really in the Sherwood Forest in the 1500's?
2. That it is really a fantasy novel. I never would have picked it up. Definitely not my genre.
3. That is aspired to be a Game of Thrones book. Again, had I known I wouldn't have picked it up.
This was not a meeting of marriage and mind and I literally could not finish it. I am embarrassed to say that as I like to finish what I start and I can count only a handful of books I could not finish. This unfortunately is one of them.
1. Foul language should be a warning. Is it for a younger crowd? As an old, cranky person I just find it offensive and really lazy on the author's part. It's so much easier to write Fxxx you than to express those feelings in another manner. Really in the Sherwood Forest in the 1500's?
2. That it is really a fantasy novel. I never would have picked it up. Definitely not my genre.
3. That is aspired to be a Game of Thrones book. Again, had I known I wouldn't have picked it up.
This was not a meeting of marriage and mind and I literally could not finish it. I am embarrassed to say that as I like to finish what I start and I can count only a handful of books I could not finish. This unfortunately is one of them.
September 18, 2020
This saga is more than a retelling, it's a complete reimagining of the Robin Hood legend. Makaryk's level of deconstruction is masterful, his prose is gorgeous, and his humor is next-level. This is not a story for the faint of heart, and I'm f*ing here for it.
September 28, 2021
I just finished this sequel to Nottingham.
I didn't feel it was quite as good as Nottingham. Again some of the history is suspect - esp the personality of John. In this novel John has a much more prominent role that the preceding novel.
As a word of warning - the language is a bit rough. The author must have been in the Military - the F word is used often and as a noun, verb, adverb and adjective. Also it is very violent. However most of the sexual scenes take place off stage.
I rated this a weak 4 stars.
I didn't feel it was quite as good as Nottingham. Again some of the history is suspect - esp the personality of John. In this novel John has a much more prominent role that the preceding novel.
As a word of warning - the language is a bit rough. The author must have been in the Military - the F word is used often and as a noun, verb, adverb and adjective. Also it is very violent. However most of the sexual scenes take place off stage.
I rated this a weak 4 stars.
August 27, 2020
Set in 12th century England, Lionhearts pretends to be a "Game of Thrones-ish" story picking up where the legend of Robin Hood leaves off. You know. Marion. King Richard. Will Scarlet. John Little. Severed hands and ears left and right. Red Lions. Street urchins. Characters who couldn't find their way out of an intelligible plot with a road map.
It's really just one giant wallow in the pig trough. Oh, look. A potty-mouthed band of "merry men" wandering around Nottingham doing their best impression of talking garbage.
Adding injury to insult is the fact that this vulgar, profane slog moves with the alacrity of a three-toed sloth. The author's habit of flinging modern day playground vernacular into 12th century mouths also strains credulity.
A stinker. Don't waste your time.
It's really just one giant wallow in the pig trough. Oh, look. A potty-mouthed band of "merry men" wandering around Nottingham doing their best impression of talking garbage.
Adding injury to insult is the fact that this vulgar, profane slog moves with the alacrity of a three-toed sloth. The author's habit of flinging modern day playground vernacular into 12th century mouths also strains credulity.
A stinker. Don't waste your time.
September 11, 2020
5 STARS!!!!!
This was my most anticipated read of the year!
Thank you NetGalley, for letting me out of NetGalley jail for not reviewing books (I couldn't download) and allowing me this advanced reader copy. Thank you Forge Books and Tor/McMillan Publishing for trusting me to read and review! Finally, thank you Nathan Makaryk for writing this book and bringing a favorite childhood character back to life!
The continuation of Nottingham may be compared to Game of Thrones (without the Dragons) or Outlander (without the time travel). This is a new and imagined version of Robin Hood and Maid Marion's men. However, this is not a child's adaptation!
King Richard is being held for ransom in Austria. The Chancellor is taxing England into devastation. Maid Marion is trying to save her people from starvation and dying. Robin Hood is dead, or is he? There is anarchy and misplaced power...grudges, revenge and betrayal. Who will help? Who will revolt? Who to trust?
This book is lengthy but lacks no suspense. It's page turning tension, full of emotion and energy! Just you think you know what's around the next corner...SURPRISE! This author completely does a 180!
I couldn't recommend a more heart pounding, gut wrenching story to keep the reader enthralled! This will be one to be reread over time. These books have a permanent place on my book shelf!
Also posted to Instagram @lisalovesliterature
This was my most anticipated read of the year!
Thank you NetGalley, for letting me out of NetGalley jail for not reviewing books (I couldn't download) and allowing me this advanced reader copy. Thank you Forge Books and Tor/McMillan Publishing for trusting me to read and review! Finally, thank you Nathan Makaryk for writing this book and bringing a favorite childhood character back to life!
The continuation of Nottingham may be compared to Game of Thrones (without the Dragons) or Outlander (without the time travel). This is a new and imagined version of Robin Hood and Maid Marion's men. However, this is not a child's adaptation!
King Richard is being held for ransom in Austria. The Chancellor is taxing England into devastation. Maid Marion is trying to save her people from starvation and dying. Robin Hood is dead, or is he? There is anarchy and misplaced power...grudges, revenge and betrayal. Who will help? Who will revolt? Who to trust?
This book is lengthy but lacks no suspense. It's page turning tension, full of emotion and energy! Just you think you know what's around the next corner...SURPRISE! This author completely does a 180!
I couldn't recommend a more heart pounding, gut wrenching story to keep the reader enthralled! This will be one to be reread over time. These books have a permanent place on my book shelf!
Also posted to Instagram @lisalovesliterature
October 19, 2020
I enjoyed this sequel.
Yes, there are f-bombs but the author weaves an intriguing and complex political tale.
Awaiting #3!
Yes, there are f-bombs but the author weaves an intriguing and complex political tale.
Awaiting #3!
October 25, 2020
There are many authors who write fantasy novels based on the same time period.
Nathan Makaryk is not in the same room with those other authors.
Lionhearts begins with the death of Robin Hood and the capture of Richard the Lionheart.
The premises for the novel sounds great another fantasy novel about the mid 13th century and the mythical legends.
Lionhearts falls flat with it's tiring repulsive language and a half attempt at humor that is resign to the playground. There are words that the author uses that is considered blasphemous.
A total lack of world building as well as total disregard of time and place leads the reader to think that the author has not done any research on his part. In the bare minimum tell the reader what the characters are wearing and what kind of weapons they have but the author will not do so as he relies to much on cursing as a crutch to support his own admission in not giving the reader a chance to become fully engaged in the story.
One has to take a bath after reading this book in order to get the filth off.
Thanks to NetGalley and Tor/ McMillan publishing for this advance copy.
Nathan Makaryk is not in the same room with those other authors.
Lionhearts begins with the death of Robin Hood and the capture of Richard the Lionheart.
The premises for the novel sounds great another fantasy novel about the mid 13th century and the mythical legends.
Lionhearts falls flat with it's tiring repulsive language and a half attempt at humor that is resign to the playground. There are words that the author uses that is considered blasphemous.
A total lack of world building as well as total disregard of time and place leads the reader to think that the author has not done any research on his part. In the bare minimum tell the reader what the characters are wearing and what kind of weapons they have but the author will not do so as he relies to much on cursing as a crutch to support his own admission in not giving the reader a chance to become fully engaged in the story.
One has to take a bath after reading this book in order to get the filth off.
Thanks to NetGalley and Tor/ McMillan publishing for this advance copy.
July 31, 2020
"This is a tale of increasingly foolish acts."
Marion, who doesn't always have a handle on her own life, certainly has one on the story itself when she says this - but this isn't only a tale of increasingly foolish acts, but brave ones, bloody ones, violent ones . . . and sadness coupled with dark sarcasm throughout.
I thought the twist and cliffhanger at the end of book one was a shocker, but damn, honestly, when do we get book three? nothing like leading us into a nice little epilogue package and then - well, that would be telling.
Marion, who doesn't always have a handle on her own life, certainly has one on the story itself when she says this - but this isn't only a tale of increasingly foolish acts, but brave ones, bloody ones, violent ones . . . and sadness coupled with dark sarcasm throughout.
I thought the twist and cliffhanger at the end of book one was a shocker, but damn, honestly, when do we get book three? nothing like leading us into a nice little epilogue package and then - well, that would be telling.
September 17, 2020
I was given a free copy of Lionhearts by Nathan Makaryk (Author), MacMillan-Tor/Forge (Publisher), and Netgalley.
Lionhearts is the first novel that I have read by Mr. Makaryk. I would characterize this novel as historical fiction.
This novel is a sequel to Nottingham which I did not read. In the beginning of Lionhearts, there is a brief synopsis of what happened in the previous novel, and I found it to be helpful.
This review will not contain any spoilers.
Lionhearts is about the characters that are known due to their connections to Robin Hood. I enjoy novels and books about Robin Hood and his merry band. Lionhearts is a novel about Robin Hood’s merry band.
Another aspect of Lionhearts that caught my fancy is the novel has a criminal element to the story along with showing how tough lift could be in Sherwood Forest and Nottingham while King Richard was being held for ransom by Austria.
Mr. Makaryk depicts the daily life of people who live hand-to-mouth while searching for food, people who are looking for fresh starts in a part of England that is rough, tough, and difficult. In the beginning of the novel, I was very intrigued by how each of the characters are doing in Sherwood Forest and Nottingham and Mr. Makaryk’s world-building. Sherwood Forest and Nottingham both come to life with dirt, grime, and grit.
The problem that I had with Lionhearts are the characters. Characters like Marian, Will Scarlett, Arthur, and others in the Merry Band that I have enjoyed reading in other Robin Hood-inspired novels and books is not the case with this novel. The characters are flat. The characters are not interesting, not engaging, and not hopeful nor optimistic. I did not get attached to any of the characters.
Another problem I had is while reading this novel, the story moved at a crawl or got bogged down too long in a chapter. There is a chapter where a character talks to a room full of people who are on staff for several nobles about what they could do if they do not pay the ransom for King Richard. The next chapter is about how another character is reacting to what the character, from the previous chapter, discussed.
It is understood that Robin Hood and his Merry Band have been around for centuries, and there have been countless versions of his story. The stories about Robin Hood and his Merry Band that I gravitated toward are stories that are swashbuckling, optimistic, exciting while Robin appears to be an anti-hero by stealing from the rich to give to the poor. Lionheart does not feature any character that is swashbuckling, optimistic, or exciting. The characters are bitter, almost cynical, filled with despair, distraught, and lacking hope.
As I continued to read the novel, I found Mr. Makaryk’s depiction of Nottingham, Sherwood Forest, and the surrounding environs to be bleak, depressing, dire, and the like.
I stopped reading Lionhearts at forty-one percent.
The book is technically well-written and does not have any obvious spelling or grammatical errors.
I will rate Lionhearts 2 stars.
I would like to thank Mr. Makaryk, MacMillan-Tor/Forge, and Netgalley for the free ARC.
Lionhearts is the first novel that I have read by Mr. Makaryk. I would characterize this novel as historical fiction.
This novel is a sequel to Nottingham which I did not read. In the beginning of Lionhearts, there is a brief synopsis of what happened in the previous novel, and I found it to be helpful.
This review will not contain any spoilers.
Lionhearts is about the characters that are known due to their connections to Robin Hood. I enjoy novels and books about Robin Hood and his merry band. Lionhearts is a novel about Robin Hood’s merry band.
Another aspect of Lionhearts that caught my fancy is the novel has a criminal element to the story along with showing how tough lift could be in Sherwood Forest and Nottingham while King Richard was being held for ransom by Austria.
Mr. Makaryk depicts the daily life of people who live hand-to-mouth while searching for food, people who are looking for fresh starts in a part of England that is rough, tough, and difficult. In the beginning of the novel, I was very intrigued by how each of the characters are doing in Sherwood Forest and Nottingham and Mr. Makaryk’s world-building. Sherwood Forest and Nottingham both come to life with dirt, grime, and grit.
The problem that I had with Lionhearts are the characters. Characters like Marian, Will Scarlett, Arthur, and others in the Merry Band that I have enjoyed reading in other Robin Hood-inspired novels and books is not the case with this novel. The characters are flat. The characters are not interesting, not engaging, and not hopeful nor optimistic. I did not get attached to any of the characters.
Another problem I had is while reading this novel, the story moved at a crawl or got bogged down too long in a chapter. There is a chapter where a character talks to a room full of people who are on staff for several nobles about what they could do if they do not pay the ransom for King Richard. The next chapter is about how another character is reacting to what the character, from the previous chapter, discussed.
It is understood that Robin Hood and his Merry Band have been around for centuries, and there have been countless versions of his story. The stories about Robin Hood and his Merry Band that I gravitated toward are stories that are swashbuckling, optimistic, exciting while Robin appears to be an anti-hero by stealing from the rich to give to the poor. Lionheart does not feature any character that is swashbuckling, optimistic, or exciting. The characters are bitter, almost cynical, filled with despair, distraught, and lacking hope.
As I continued to read the novel, I found Mr. Makaryk’s depiction of Nottingham, Sherwood Forest, and the surrounding environs to be bleak, depressing, dire, and the like.
I stopped reading Lionhearts at forty-one percent.
The book is technically well-written and does not have any obvious spelling or grammatical errors.
I will rate Lionhearts 2 stars.
I would like to thank Mr. Makaryk, MacMillan-Tor/Forge, and Netgalley for the free ARC.
December 20, 2022
That feeling when you just know that you’re going to dislike a book because its predecessor broke your heart, but you force yourself to read it anyway because you feel that you have to… well, this is what happened with this book.
I absolutely loved reading the first book, Nottingham. Absolutely adored it, told everyone about it. I even continued after my favourite was killed off. But then I got to the end, and Robin died. Yes - in a book about Robin Hood, Robin Hood died.
I was totally devastated. In fact, throughout the second book, I still hoped it had been a mistake and that he would make a miraculous comeback. But no.
So, I read Lionhearts because I wanted to see what happened. I was actually enjoying it at first, and then I got halfway through and thought, I really hate these characters. Each chapter is told from a different characters point of view, and man, they were annoying. Even Prince John, who was pretty amusing in Nottingham, became ridiculous in the sequel, and as for Marion. Well, enough said, or not said, as the case may be. The story was needlessly draaaaaaggggged out for so long. Much too long, really. Much, much too long.
I’ve seen reviews where people liken these books to Game of Thrones, and even call them fantasy novels. I haven’t read Game of Thrones but these books aren’t fantasy novels. They are medieval novels, and extremely bloodthirsty, but there is absolutely no reason for this book in particular to be as long as it is. I was bored by the halfway point, and I skim read the last four chapters. I just didn’t care what was going to happen. And the ending…. I can’t even go there.
Really wanted to like it, but really, really didn’t. A solid one star.
I absolutely loved reading the first book, Nottingham. Absolutely adored it, told everyone about it. I even continued after my favourite was killed off. But then I got to the end, and Robin died. Yes - in a book about Robin Hood, Robin Hood died.
I was totally devastated. In fact, throughout the second book, I still hoped it had been a mistake and that he would make a miraculous comeback. But no.
So, I read Lionhearts because I wanted to see what happened. I was actually enjoying it at first, and then I got halfway through and thought, I really hate these characters. Each chapter is told from a different characters point of view, and man, they were annoying. Even Prince John, who was pretty amusing in Nottingham, became ridiculous in the sequel, and as for Marion. Well, enough said, or not said, as the case may be. The story was needlessly draaaaaaggggged out for so long. Much too long, really. Much, much too long.
I’ve seen reviews where people liken these books to Game of Thrones, and even call them fantasy novels. I haven’t read Game of Thrones but these books aren’t fantasy novels. They are medieval novels, and extremely bloodthirsty, but there is absolutely no reason for this book in particular to be as long as it is. I was bored by the halfway point, and I skim read the last four chapters. I just didn’t care what was going to happen. And the ending…. I can’t even go there.
Really wanted to like it, but really, really didn’t. A solid one star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2020
Nathan Makaryk has slaughtered this book. It's language is unbelievable. Every other word is f***.
That alone is not my cup of tea. I thought this book would be a look at King Richard's exile in Austria. Instead, what I got was just ridiculous.
I think he tried to write a book along the lines of Games of Thrones or Hunger Games. He failed miserably. This story picked up after the death of Robin Hood. You know it, with King Richard, Maid Madeline and Little John.
There is no concept or flow to this book. It seems it's just a lot of mismash to me. Of course, I only read 1/3 of the book, it's all I could handle. I think I need to go take a bath, just to get the filth off of me.
This is just my opinion and everyone reads the same book differently. I would not waste my time or money on it, if I were you.
Thanks to Netgalley for the Kindle version of the book for my honest opinion and thoughts.
That alone is not my cup of tea. I thought this book would be a look at King Richard's exile in Austria. Instead, what I got was just ridiculous.
I think he tried to write a book along the lines of Games of Thrones or Hunger Games. He failed miserably. This story picked up after the death of Robin Hood. You know it, with King Richard, Maid Madeline and Little John.
There is no concept or flow to this book. It seems it's just a lot of mismash to me. Of course, I only read 1/3 of the book, it's all I could handle. I think I need to go take a bath, just to get the filth off of me.
This is just my opinion and everyone reads the same book differently. I would not waste my time or money on it, if I were you.
Thanks to Netgalley for the Kindle version of the book for my honest opinion and thoughts.
April 30, 2022
Disappointed. Had I known beforehand this was a deconstruction of the Robin Hood legend and lack historical accuracy, I would not have read it. Depressing and boring.
February 8, 2023
Such a huge disappointment of a sequel. I gave the first book a high rating making this so aggravating. Besides desperately needing an editor, it needed to be less ridiculous.
September 11, 2020
5 STARS!!!!!
This was my most anticipated read of the year!
Thank you NetGalley, for letting me out of NetGalley jail for not reviewing books (I couldn't download) and allowing me this advanced reader copy. Thank you Forge Books and Tor/McMillan Publishing for trusting me to read and review! Finally, thank you Nathan Makaryk for writing this book and bringing a favorite childhood character back to life!
The continuation of Nottingham may be compared to Game of Thrones (without the Dragons) or Outlander (without the time travel). This is a new and imagined version of Robin Hood and Maid Marion's men. However, this is not a child's adaptation!
King Richard is being held for ransom in Austria. The Chancellor is taxing England into devastation. Maid Marion is trying to save her people from starvation and dying. Robin Hood is dead, or is he? There is anarchy and misplaced power...grudges, revenge and betrayal. Who will help? Who will revolt? Who to trust?
This book is lengthy but lacks no suspense. It's page turning tension, full of emotion and energy! Just you think you know what's around the next corner...SURPRISE! This author completely does a 180!
I couldn't recommend a more heart pounding, gut wrenching story to keep the reader enthralled! This will be one to be reread over time. These books have a permanent place on my book shelf!
This was my most anticipated read of the year!
Thank you NetGalley, for letting me out of NetGalley jail for not reviewing books (I couldn't download) and allowing me this advanced reader copy. Thank you Forge Books and Tor/McMillan Publishing for trusting me to read and review! Finally, thank you Nathan Makaryk for writing this book and bringing a favorite childhood character back to life!
The continuation of Nottingham may be compared to Game of Thrones (without the Dragons) or Outlander (without the time travel). This is a new and imagined version of Robin Hood and Maid Marion's men. However, this is not a child's adaptation!
King Richard is being held for ransom in Austria. The Chancellor is taxing England into devastation. Maid Marion is trying to save her people from starvation and dying. Robin Hood is dead, or is he? There is anarchy and misplaced power...grudges, revenge and betrayal. Who will help? Who will revolt? Who to trust?
This book is lengthy but lacks no suspense. It's page turning tension, full of emotion and energy! Just you think you know what's around the next corner...SURPRISE! This author completely does a 180!
I couldn't recommend a more heart pounding, gut wrenching story to keep the reader enthralled! This will be one to be reread over time. These books have a permanent place on my book shelf!
Did Not Finish
August 29, 2020DNF at 37%.
This book is hilarious, but it's also disgusting.
This book is hilarious, but it's also disgusting.
July 10, 2025
What a drawn-out and uninteresting book. Reading this felt like a chore I had to complete before reading proper books again. It was about 4 times longer than it needed to be to convey the story it messily contained.
September 2, 2020
Want to see more...
Bookstagram
Website
Thank you Penguin for this book in exchange for an honest review
To say that I was excited to read this book would be an understatement. I absolutely loveeee Robin Hood and Nottingham (the first book) was absolutely wonderful!
Lionhearts, didn’t hit the mark for me or rather, it wasn’t as enjoyable as Nottingham was. Whilst the characters were still are entertaining and delightful as they were in the first one, they got caught up on a book that really lacked a plot.
Through the lack of a real plot, you get heavily involved with the characters again, you follow their stories, side with the good against the evil. I adore them, I love the brilliant Robin Hood vibes with the creative retelling but the plot wasn’t there.
Bookstagram
Website
Thank you Penguin for this book in exchange for an honest review
To say that I was excited to read this book would be an understatement. I absolutely loveeee Robin Hood and Nottingham (the first book) was absolutely wonderful!
Lionhearts, didn’t hit the mark for me or rather, it wasn’t as enjoyable as Nottingham was. Whilst the characters were still are entertaining and delightful as they were in the first one, they got caught up on a book that really lacked a plot.
Through the lack of a real plot, you get heavily involved with the characters again, you follow their stories, side with the good against the evil. I adore them, I love the brilliant Robin Hood vibes with the creative retelling but the plot wasn’t there.
September 21, 2020
I received an ARC of this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series and was very excited to read this one. It followed along with the story of the first book, allowing the reader to see what many of the characters were doing as a result of the tumultuous actions in the first installment. Some of the characters are unlikeable; some of them do things that you want to yell at them about; some of them make decisions based on what they think is best when you wish they would do something completely different.
I would only recommend reading this book if you have read the first one. And I would re-read the first one right before reading this one. Without a clear memory of the characters, their motivations, and their past actions, the reader will miss out of subtleties that will really add to the enjoyment and understanding of what is happening.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series and was very excited to read this one. It followed along with the story of the first book, allowing the reader to see what many of the characters were doing as a result of the tumultuous actions in the first installment. Some of the characters are unlikeable; some of them do things that you want to yell at them about; some of them make decisions based on what they think is best when you wish they would do something completely different.
I would only recommend reading this book if you have read the first one. And I would re-read the first one right before reading this one. Without a clear memory of the characters, their motivations, and their past actions, the reader will miss out of subtleties that will really add to the enjoyment and understanding of what is happening.
May 15, 2025
*Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an early copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Well. This was my other most anticipated book of the year, (The Mirror & the Light being the other one). So much for it being worth the wait.
This book fails on three fronts: the plot, the women, and the men.
The plot is needlessly detailed and drawn out. The book’s timeline could’ve started later without losing much. Instead I chewed on this tough jerky for a month. This cumbersome journey is further shipwrecked by an intolerable cast.
See the rest of the review here:
https://damselinthelibrary.wixsite.co...
Well. This was my other most anticipated book of the year, (The Mirror & the Light being the other one). So much for it being worth the wait.
This book fails on three fronts: the plot, the women, and the men.
The plot is needlessly detailed and drawn out. The book’s timeline could’ve started later without losing much. Instead I chewed on this tough jerky for a month. This cumbersome journey is further shipwrecked by an intolerable cast.
See the rest of the review here:
https://damselinthelibrary.wixsite.co...
April 30, 2021
Content Warning: Pretty much everything but the kitchen sink. Profanity (so much profanity), violence, murder, rape (mention of and offscreen), necrophilia (mention of), theft. Aside from bestialities, this book has it all.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the author for providing Lionhearts for review!
The story of Robin Hood and his band of outlaws is one that has become so ingrained that one often forgets that at least some of it is based on truth. King Richard really was captured and held for ransom and in order to pay his ransom every English lord raised taxes much to the people’s dismay. And while bandits and outlaws likely did roam Sherwood Forest at the time, that is where truth and fiction diverge.
First of all, I did not realize Lionhearts was a sequel. Because it was not described as such on Netgalley’s website, I went in thinking it was either a standalone book or the first book in a possible series. That it is the second book and the book Nottingham comes before it could possibly make a difference when reading.
Secondly, this book is violent and some parts are not for the squeamish. A trigger or content warning of some kind would have been welcome. While I am not the most squeamish of readers, there were a few scenes that even I found difficult to stomach. Readers who are familiar with the content of Game of Thrones will have an idea of the kind of sometimes over the top violence that Lionhearts contains.
In many ways it is obvious that Makaryk was influenced by the wildly popular Game of Thrones series when writing Lionhearts. Each chapter is dedicated solely to an individual character and their actions at a specific time and place. At the beginning of each chapter we are given the name of who we are following and exactly where they are. We then follow them as they negotiate the countless plots and subplots as well as the very real danger that surrounds each person.
To sum things up, Lionhearts is not for everyone. The story is dark and violent, the characters are often cruel. At over 500 pages it can be a bit much for even the most stalwart of readers. Readers who are looking for a retelling of the Robin Hood myth should be careful because this is not an easy read.
September 27, 2020
I love historical fiction and was immediately drawn to Lionhearts when it was available to review, but it is hard to figure out where to start. The setting is the 13th century (you have to keep this in mind) after Robin Hood dies and King Richard is captured. The characters are all there - Marion, Richard, Will, Little John, and the other Merry Men as are Nottingham and the Sherwood Forest. So far, so good.
The book is billed as one for fans of the Game of Thrones series. The author even tries to imitate the organization, with chapters named by characters and locations. This is not even original and doesn’t make me enjoy it any better because I am supposed to be reading something like the great fantasy literature.
The problem is the author’s use of profanity. It seemed that every other word was a four-letter word, which: (1) gets old after a while; and (2) we don’t even know if people spoke this way in the 13th century. I wonder if the author did any research to find out if the profound use of profanity was 13th-century vernacular.
I couldn’t take it after a while. My experience of the book was that the profanity overshadowed the plot, character development, pace, and thematic conclusion. Yet, I congratulate anyone who could write a 546 page book, so I rate the book one star.
I would like to thank the author, Tor/Forge MacMillan, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
The book is billed as one for fans of the Game of Thrones series. The author even tries to imitate the organization, with chapters named by characters and locations. This is not even original and doesn’t make me enjoy it any better because I am supposed to be reading something like the great fantasy literature.
The problem is the author’s use of profanity. It seemed that every other word was a four-letter word, which: (1) gets old after a while; and (2) we don’t even know if people spoke this way in the 13th century. I wonder if the author did any research to find out if the profound use of profanity was 13th-century vernacular.
I couldn’t take it after a while. My experience of the book was that the profanity overshadowed the plot, character development, pace, and thematic conclusion. Yet, I congratulate anyone who could write a 546 page book, so I rate the book one star.
I would like to thank the author, Tor/Forge MacMillan, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
November 10, 2020
It’s no exaggeration to say that Makaryk puts words together in more beautiful and clever ways than anyone I’ve seen. I liked his first book, Nottingham, a lot, but I loved Lionhearts more. His writing is one of those rare styles that no matter whose POV I’m reading from, now matter how “boring” of a scene it is, I don’t want to skim a thing, because the writing itself is just a blast to read, no matter what. There was one incredible scene where I gasped aloud because it was so unexpected and so COOL, and another scene where I was laughing so hard I had to go find someone to share it with. The plot was top-notch and I enjoyed almost all the characters—my favorites were the core group of Will Scarlet, Arthur, and Arable. There is, as others have said, lots of cursing, though it fits the tone of the book perfectly to my ear, and I didn’t feel it overwhelmed or detracted from the storyline at all. It’s also dark, as I pointed out with the last one, but never as much as Game of Thrones. I also felt these characters were easier to connect to, and of course, the clever writing is impossible to look away from. I’ll buy Makaryk’s next book in a heartbeat, based on his writing style alone. Recommended for Robin Hood or GOT fans, or anyone who likes dark historical medieval fiction.
November 12, 2020
Well, what can I say? I had been looking forward to reading Lionheart as I enjoy reading historical books. I enjoy immersing myself fully in another time period resplendent in the common vernacular, the customs, attitudes, etc. of the times. This book does not really do that. I see that many have compared it to Game of Thrones (or as a wanna-be). It did seem to me better suited as a "HBO vehicle". While I am sure such profanity may have used in the time period, I really dont see the need to wallow in it. I am sure that some women may have wished for more, may have blamed misogyny, they would have done so with that word. I was unable to lose myself in the book because the world the author created didn't exist in that way. Friar Tuck would not have had a bible, let alone had it in the woods for example. There are many people who will enjoy this book as written but it is not for me. Too many inconsistencies with the time period. It has modern attitudes and behaviors and that is what ruined the reading experience for me. I look for an escape from the modern world when I read and found I was still there!
September 23, 2023
As with the first book, "Nottingham," I found the foul language to be out of place, and overboard. This author is very good, and is more than capable of writing without all that. I would have loved it if he'd invented swear words and his own colorful phrases to fit the period better. He's very clever at turning phrases, and I know it would have been great. I would have easily given it (and Nottingham) 5 stars had he done so.
I thought it was an unpredictable, inventive story. It was a fresh, new story with the familiarity of an old one. The many characters were complex and well fleshed out. The author's ability to pull me into the scenes whether I liked it or not was possibly the best part. I could see it with my eyes. I love when that happens. That's what I hope for when I read. The plot twists and turns kept me in the fire all the way through. His ability to shine a light on human strength and frailty, and our ability to be both hero and villain was the real take-away of both books for me. This is one of my favorite books. I'm sure I will read and enjoy the series again. I highly recommend it, TO ADULTS, despite the serious over use of very foul language.
I thought it was an unpredictable, inventive story. It was a fresh, new story with the familiarity of an old one. The many characters were complex and well fleshed out. The author's ability to pull me into the scenes whether I liked it or not was possibly the best part. I could see it with my eyes. I love when that happens. That's what I hope for when I read. The plot twists and turns kept me in the fire all the way through. His ability to shine a light on human strength and frailty, and our ability to be both hero and villain was the real take-away of both books for me. This is one of my favorite books. I'm sure I will read and enjoy the series again. I highly recommend it, TO ADULTS, despite the serious over use of very foul language.
November 9, 2020
There have been many retellings of the Robin Hood legend. This one is very different from the others I've experienced. It continues the story that began with "Nottingham" and follows the difficulties in England following the imprisonment of Richard the Lionheart and the death of Robin of Locksley. The story uses familiar characters - Lady Marian, John Little, Friar Tuck, etc - and introduces a host of new characters. It is quite violent and bloody which, I'm sure, is true to the time period. For the people of England, rich or poor, life is hard. There are people of all types who are willing to fight (literally or figuratively) for what is right and good. This was an interesting story, not at all what I expected.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forge-McMillan books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forge-McMillan books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2021
Actual rating: 3.5 stars. A solid follow up to the first book and I applaud the author for managing to overcome the obstacle of at the end of the previous entry. I did have a few issues though, which is why it didn't rate as high. There is a train wreck aspect here like I described in my review for the first book, but it comes late in the book, which makes the first part feel very slow. It didn't help that this sequel was 550 pages. I know it's not much more that the 500 pages that Nottingham is, but because the first part feels slow, it took me a while to make it through. Also, I'm not sure how I feel about the ending. Whereas everything that happened at the end of the last book felt natural, this cliffhanger seems almost soap operish. I guess I'll hold judgement until the next book (if there is a next book).
February 23, 2021
2.5 stars
I loved the first book in the series and I had such high expectations for this one. I was unfortunately disappointed. I felt that this book had such drastic changes in the personalities of the characters that weren't explained clearly. I also felt that the plot steered off course from the first one to the point where it felt like more of a companion novel than a sequel. I wasn't expecting the huge increase in the use of profanity. I'm not a huge fan of an overload of cursing but as that is more of a personal preference, it didn't really impact my rating
I did enjoy the political intrigue in the book and the world building was really good.
Thank you netgalley for providing me with an arc of this book! All thoughts are my own and my review is honest and unbiased.
I loved the first book in the series and I had such high expectations for this one. I was unfortunately disappointed. I felt that this book had such drastic changes in the personalities of the characters that weren't explained clearly. I also felt that the plot steered off course from the first one to the point where it felt like more of a companion novel than a sequel. I wasn't expecting the huge increase in the use of profanity. I'm not a huge fan of an overload of cursing but as that is more of a personal preference, it didn't really impact my rating
I did enjoy the political intrigue in the book and the world building was really good.
Thank you netgalley for providing me with an arc of this book! All thoughts are my own and my review is honest and unbiased.
September 14, 2021
Retelling of the story of Robin Hood, beginning with the first book, Nottingham.
Both have way to much profanity in them, here's hoping the author might cut back just a bit on that in the next one? (fingers crossed?)
Otherwise, this retelling of Robin Hood and his merry gang (no tights) is so fun of believable characters, both good and bad and it's told in such a way that it's hard to stay mad at any one person, as they all have their failings.
What I wasn't expecting were the parts that made me laugh out loud! Oh, Lord Robert, I love you - please don't change.
Very excited to tell by the ending that there is more to come! Hopefully with less profanity!
Both have way to much profanity in them, here's hoping the author might cut back just a bit on that in the next one? (fingers crossed?)
Otherwise, this retelling of Robin Hood and his merry gang (no tights) is so fun of believable characters, both good and bad and it's told in such a way that it's hard to stay mad at any one person, as they all have their failings.
What I wasn't expecting were the parts that made me laugh out loud! Oh, Lord Robert, I love you - please don't change.
Very excited to tell by the ending that there is more to come! Hopefully with less profanity!
March 20, 2024
This is the second book in the Nottingham series, and there had better be a third book!! This continuation of the re-imagining of the Robin Hood myth is better than the first book, which by the way, was amazing! The writing is sharper, the human and humane aspects of the characters are more focused and the action is stunning. The sociological points interwoven into the narrative are wonderfully and subtly done. Pay particular attention to the writing in Chapter 61-it is the most brilliant, haunting and harrowingly beautiful depiction of what it's like to be in the midst of a war from the viewpoints of the people in the field. AMAZING!!!
June 5, 2024
Many lionhearts fight with fierce pride, paradoxical emotions, and cunning (sometimes clumsy) strength of body or mind. Many, I'm happy to say, are women. This is a brutal, matter-of-fact sequel about realistic, multidimensional, complicated humans avenging political treachery and trying to survive in the midst of gang warfare and epic battles. In "Nottingham," King Richard used body doubles on the battlefield, and now in "Lionhearts," it's no surprise that many Robin Hoods live on.
These two novels vividly changed how I imagine the Robin Hood legends. I'm using way too many adjectives to describe how excellent "Nottingham" and "Lionhearts" are. Just read them.
These two novels vividly changed how I imagine the Robin Hood legends. I'm using way too many adjectives to describe how excellent "Nottingham" and "Lionhearts" are. Just read them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews