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Heir to the Crown #7
Defender of the Crown
The enemy of my enemy is still my enemy!
As peace settles across the land, two great kingdoms prepare for a royal wedding. With all eyes focused on the celebrations, the unexpected arrival of a Norland delegation throws everything into chaos.
For generations, they have laid claim to the throne of Merceria, yet now they want to negotiate?
With her own nobles council in constant conflict, Queen Anna is forced to question the motive of this visit. Is it a trap, or a genuine desire to end hostilities?
Against the wisdom of her advisors, she travels north, determined to forge a new future for her people.
Will her unwavering desire for peace lead to the destruction of all she holds dear?
Journey with Anna and discover the true motives of the Norlanders in Defender of the Crown, book seven of Paul J Bennett's Heir to the Crown series. If you like hidden agendas, desperate battles, and determined mages, then this is the book for you!
Settle in for a wild ride with Defender of the Crown, and give peace a chance!
New to the series? Meet Gerald Matheson, the steadfast warrior in Servant of the Crown, Heir to the Crown: Book One, available in eBook, Audiobook, and Paperback.
Other books in this series:
Servant of the Crown
Mercerian Tales: Stories of the Past
Heart of the Crown
Shadow of the Crown
Mercerian Tales: The Call of Magic
Fate of the Crown
Burden of the Crown
Mercerian Tales: The Making of a Man
Defender of the Crown
Other Series by Paul J Bennett:
The Frozen Flame
The Chronicles of Cyric
Power Ascending
As peace settles across the land, two great kingdoms prepare for a royal wedding. With all eyes focused on the celebrations, the unexpected arrival of a Norland delegation throws everything into chaos.
For generations, they have laid claim to the throne of Merceria, yet now they want to negotiate?
With her own nobles council in constant conflict, Queen Anna is forced to question the motive of this visit. Is it a trap, or a genuine desire to end hostilities?
Against the wisdom of her advisors, she travels north, determined to forge a new future for her people.
Will her unwavering desire for peace lead to the destruction of all she holds dear?
Journey with Anna and discover the true motives of the Norlanders in Defender of the Crown, book seven of Paul J Bennett's Heir to the Crown series. If you like hidden agendas, desperate battles, and determined mages, then this is the book for you!
Settle in for a wild ride with Defender of the Crown, and give peace a chance!
New to the series? Meet Gerald Matheson, the steadfast warrior in Servant of the Crown, Heir to the Crown: Book One, available in eBook, Audiobook, and Paperback.
Other books in this series:
Servant of the Crown
Mercerian Tales: Stories of the Past
Heart of the Crown
Shadow of the Crown
Mercerian Tales: The Call of Magic
Fate of the Crown
Burden of the Crown
Mercerian Tales: The Making of a Man
Defender of the Crown
Other Series by Paul J Bennett:
The Frozen Flame
The Chronicles of Cyric
Power Ascending
- GenresFantasy
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 30, 2020
187 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
About the author
Paul J. Bennett
48 books524 followersPaul J Bennett (b. 1961) emigrated from England to Canada in 1967. His father served in the British Royal Navy, and his mother worked for the BBC in London. As a young man, Paul followed in his father’s footsteps, joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 1983. He is married to Carol Bennett and has three daughters who are all creative in their own right.
Paul’s interest in writing started in his teen years when he discovered the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons (D & D). What attracted him to this new hobby was the creativity it required; the need to create realms, worlds and adventures that pulled the gamers into his stories.
In his 30’s, Paul started to dabble in designing his own roleplaying system, using the Peninsular War in Portugal as his backdrop. His regular gaming group were willing victims, er, participants in helping to playtest this new system. A few years later, he added additional settings to his game, including Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, World War II, and the all-important Fantasy Realm where his stories take place.
The beginnings of his first book ‘Servant to the Crown’ originated over five years ago when he began a new fantasy campaign. For the world that the Kingdom of Merceria is in, he ran his adventures like a TV show, with seasons that each had twelve episodes, and an overarching plot. When the campaign ended, he knew all the characters, what they had to accomplish, what needed to happen to move the plot along, and it was this that inspired to sit down to write his first novel.
Paul now has four series based in his fantasy world of Eiddenwerthe and is looking forward to sharing many more books with his readers over the coming years.
Paul’s interest in writing started in his teen years when he discovered the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons (D & D). What attracted him to this new hobby was the creativity it required; the need to create realms, worlds and adventures that pulled the gamers into his stories.
In his 30’s, Paul started to dabble in designing his own roleplaying system, using the Peninsular War in Portugal as his backdrop. His regular gaming group were willing victims, er, participants in helping to playtest this new system. A few years later, he added additional settings to his game, including Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, World War II, and the all-important Fantasy Realm where his stories take place.
The beginnings of his first book ‘Servant to the Crown’ originated over five years ago when he began a new fantasy campaign. For the world that the Kingdom of Merceria is in, he ran his adventures like a TV show, with seasons that each had twelve episodes, and an overarching plot. When the campaign ended, he knew all the characters, what they had to accomplish, what needed to happen to move the plot along, and it was this that inspired to sit down to write his first novel.
Paul now has four series based in his fantasy world of Eiddenwerthe and is looking forward to sharing many more books with his readers over the coming years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 27, 2025
Great Story
Defender of the Crown continues a great storyline. It's hard to put down. Unlike some, this series keeps getting better and doesn't slow down.
Defender of the Crown continues a great storyline. It's hard to put down. Unlike some, this series keeps getting better and doesn't slow down.
May 10, 2020
If you have been reading the series so far then you already know about the planned wedding between Queen Anna and Prince Alric. If not, this is a perfectly good stand alone story too. The book starts out with this important event happening. At the same time, there is a plot hatching to murder the Queen by a lord who wants desperately to be king. While this is being plotted, and while the Queen is occupied with the wedding event, an emissary arrives in the realm with a message he needs to deliver to the Queen herself. The emissary is from Norland and that realm has been at war with the Queen's realm for centuries. King Halfan of Norland is very ill and wants to procure a peace to enable him to leave a healthy country for his successor. To that end, he is inviting the Queen to attend at his residence to discuss the issues. The stage has thus been set for battle. The battle scenes in this story are fantastic, using lots of magic and very descriptive language. The descriptions are so good that the reader can close his eyes and see it taking place. Well written and fast paced, it is a great read. Makes you want to get the next book soon.
April 3, 2020
The enemy of my enemy is still my enemy!
As peace settles across the land, two great kingdoms prepare for a royal wedding. With all eyes focused on the celebrations, the unexpected arrival of a Norland delegation throws everything into chaos.
For generations, they have laid claim to the throne of Merceria, yet now they want to negotiate?
With her own nobles council in constant conflict, Queen Anna is forced to question the motive of this visit. Is it a trap, or a genuine desire to end hostilities?
Against the wisdom of her advisors, she travels north, determined to forge a new future for her people.
Will her unwavering desire for peace lead to the destruction of all she holds dear?
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
As peace settles across the land, two great kingdoms prepare for a royal wedding. With all eyes focused on the celebrations, the unexpected arrival of a Norland delegation throws everything into chaos.
For generations, they have laid claim to the throne of Merceria, yet now they want to negotiate?
With her own nobles council in constant conflict, Queen Anna is forced to question the motive of this visit. Is it a trap, or a genuine desire to end hostilities?
Against the wisdom of her advisors, she travels north, determined to forge a new future for her people.
Will her unwavering desire for peace lead to the destruction of all she holds dear?
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
April 10, 2020
It is difficult in a series like this one, to maintain an interesting plot in every single book, while continuing the construction of a credible world ensuring that the basic elements stayed the same while adding more and more layers, adventures and characters to add complexity and help the original story to expand and grow, but definitely Mr Bennett made it. Each new installment of the series is as good or better than the previous one and the plot is more interesting if possible. As the series continues I am amazed how the characters evolved growing in many aspects, reaching some of their goals, making difficult decisions or simply being themselves. All the angst situations, mysteries, intrigue, misunderstandings and danger, kept me at the edge of my seat the whole time. I strongly recommend not only to read the series in order but to re-read the last 2 book to fully enjoyed this one. A complex story so amazing that it is a must read if you are as fan of Fantasy books as me. Loved it!
March 30, 2020
Another artful stroke of storytelling that leaves you wanting more! As the tale continues, the queen is on the throne, a royal wedding planned…then, an unbelievable opportunity arises that could change Merceria forever. But is it real? And what about those in the shadows that are eager for the fall of Anna’s reign? Can magic make them safe, or will it cause unimagined suffering? An exceptional tale of intrigue, deceit, conflict, but also an uneasy, yet enduring hope that could lead to… Read Defender of the Crown and find out!
April 4, 2025
Anna has pulled Mercuria together under her leadership, but misogynistic nobles don't give up. She now faces danger from at least three fronts.
How will she achieve peace? In this case war comes to her. This story is filled with battle scenes and heroics. If you like your heroes to be strong, in the enemies face and willing to fight despite all odd, you will find this right down your alley.
If you like to see diplomacy work and bring in the allies and friends, then there is plenty for you too. Never too far away is magic, and lots of it.
Read this one and certainly enjoy!
How will she achieve peace? In this case war comes to her. This story is filled with battle scenes and heroics. If you like your heroes to be strong, in the enemies face and willing to fight despite all odd, you will find this right down your alley.
If you like to see diplomacy work and bring in the allies and friends, then there is plenty for you too. Never too far away is magic, and lots of it.
Read this one and certainly enjoy!
April 3, 2020
This is the seventh book in the Heir to the Crown series. It starts with the wedding of Queen Anna of Merceria and Prince Alric of Weldwyn. After the wedding an envoy from King Halfan of Norland asking Queen Anna to come to his capital to discuss peace. This is a well paced book and a joy to read. I highly recommend it and it can be read out of sequence as a standalone novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it…
April 15, 2020
War all Over
Mr. Bennett has done it yet again a masterful book full of twist and turns. A complete use of all the characters that he has developed in the previous books. I wish I had a life mage to ease my old age woes like Gerald. Anna will have to be careful of evil villains in the next book. I was surprised to see the resurgence of a long time enemy. Good luck to the good guys.
Mr. Bennett has done it yet again a masterful book full of twist and turns. A complete use of all the characters that he has developed in the previous books. I wish I had a life mage to ease my old age woes like Gerald. Anna will have to be careful of evil villains in the next book. I was surprised to see the resurgence of a long time enemy. Good luck to the good guys.
April 15, 2020
As I read the series I have found the storyline becoming stronger and look forward to the next book. I find the characters uncomplicated but realistic in a naive way which is perfect for the style of writing. The storylines are well thought out and again straightforward without complicated language or verbose. Once again Gerald and the Queen rise to the occasion with stirring battles and an ongoing plot which gets better and better.
April 15, 2020
This series, Heir to the Crown, and this book, Defender of the Crown, has such interesting characters and the world building is excellent. The story keeps your attention from start to finish, with an ending that comfortably finishes the story, but, does not keep you hanging til the next book. I recommend this series and this book to everyone that likes a good tale.
Sincerely,
Deborah, an avid reader
Sincerely,
Deborah, an avid reader
April 24, 2020
Excellent fantasy read
I recommend starting with the first book in the series as it gives important background information. This installment is as wonderful as all the others. An exciting read that will keep you reading late into the night. The battle scenes are perfection and every bit as good as Salvatore. The excitement and adventure is present from start to finish. Never a dull moment. I highly recommend this book and the entire series to any fantasy and adventure lover.
I recommend starting with the first book in the series as it gives important background information. This installment is as wonderful as all the others. An exciting read that will keep you reading late into the night. The battle scenes are perfection and every bit as good as Salvatore. The excitement and adventure is present from start to finish. Never a dull moment. I highly recommend this book and the entire series to any fantasy and adventure lover.
June 2, 2021
Anna and her trusted advisors once again find themselves in dire straights.
A diplomatic mission gone terribly wrong. Betrayal of the Crown's soldiers en masse. A concerted effort by allies to quell an invasion.
But will it all come to nought when the dark elf necromancer unleashes her spirit army? What a cliff hanger of an ending. Happy reading. Annemarie
I received a copy of Defender of the Crown free from the author and have chosen to leave a review.
A diplomatic mission gone terribly wrong. Betrayal of the Crown's soldiers en masse. A concerted effort by allies to quell an invasion.
But will it all come to nought when the dark elf necromancer unleashes her spirit army? What a cliff hanger of an ending. Happy reading. Annemarie
I received a copy of Defender of the Crown free from the author and have chosen to leave a review.
April 12, 2020
What a fabulous story.
Calling it a story seems wrong, what else can you call a tale that moves you forward with such amazing action. The characters have only grown the more these books evolve. They prove themselves worthy of ballad sung by minstrels of old, telling their stories with great gusto. You read, become invested in your favourite characters and wait breathless with they do battle or escape from peril. I cannot say enough about how great these books are and how enthralled I am by them. Mr Bennett is a master storyteller par excellence. I for one am looking foreword to his next adventure. Highly recommended
Calling it a story seems wrong, what else can you call a tale that moves you forward with such amazing action. The characters have only grown the more these books evolve. They prove themselves worthy of ballad sung by minstrels of old, telling their stories with great gusto. You read, become invested in your favourite characters and wait breathless with they do battle or escape from peril. I cannot say enough about how great these books are and how enthralled I am by them. Mr Bennett is a master storyteller par excellence. I for one am looking foreword to his next adventure. Highly recommended
April 12, 2020
This series by Paul Bennett is a joy to read. Consistantly entertaining and well formed, the characters become family and friends. the settings are so well written its like visiting familiar places. I am thoroughly enjoying the journey and eagerly anticipating the next stop. If you like unlikely heroes, unusual magic, elves, Orcs, Dwarves and lots of action, This series is definately for you.
April 12, 2020
Another great addition to the Heir to the Crown saga. Was glad to see the other races integrated in tighter to the storyline in a more permanent way and the plotline is advancing in an interesting way, ( especially knowing it is on a tangent with another series) and not just babbling filler as often happens with some authors. Keep up the good work!
May 1, 2020
Queen Anna wants peace. some members of the Council of Nobles wants her Crown. And, the trouble starts. Once again Paul Bennett mixes magic, action, great characters, and a wonderful storyline to produce another must-read book. The only problem I see is that now I have a long wait for the next
chapter in this great sword a sorcery series.
chapter in this great sword a sorcery series.
December 23, 2020
Emissaries, Enemies and Engagements, this book has it all. New alliances, new adventures and new intrigue awaits you in this the 7th book in the Heir to the Crown series. Lucky for me I have come late to the series and don't have long to wait for the next book. I have romped through three books in three days and are loving every minute of it.
July 12, 2022
WOW. So many plots
Paul’s writing is amazing. At one point I count 6 plots happening simultaneously. And unlike other writers his don’t all converge to resolve into one. It’s more like layers of an onion. Connected but separate. At times the intensity of anticipation, fear, excitement, makes my heart race. Though this is fantasy it reads like reality.
Paul’s writing is amazing. At one point I count 6 plots happening simultaneously. And unlike other writers his don’t all converge to resolve into one. It’s more like layers of an onion. Connected but separate. At times the intensity of anticipation, fear, excitement, makes my heart race. Though this is fantasy it reads like reality.
November 12, 2021
Book 7 in The Crown series is another win to add to Bennett's writing column. He continues to bring hope to this world he created with good characters and energetic fire.
A fast paced great evening reading.
A fast paced great evening reading.
April 4, 2025
Every Page is Pure Gold... but then I have come to expect just that from this Author. Our cast of regulars are under attach from every angle, and on every front... will they survive? read the book and find out
April 2, 2020
Paul has done it again with this amazing book. Queen Anna and the rest of the gang are back to seek peace and equality for the Merecinians.
All the allies are back, the Orcs, Elves, Dwarves and Kurathians.
This book is non stop action and will have you holding your breathe.
Great job Paul. I highly recommend this book and series and can’t wait for the next book!
All the allies are back, the Orcs, Elves, Dwarves and Kurathians.
This book is non stop action and will have you holding your breathe.
Great job Paul. I highly recommend this book and series and can’t wait for the next book!
April 2, 2020
The action continues in this fast paced new addition to the series. More charachters are developing and as is growing typical, another cliff hanger keeps you intrigued for the next installment.
April 3, 2020
DEFENDER is wonderful,massively world-built,and character driven!! In short,one of the best fantasy works I have ever read!
Read
April 4, 2020Lots of challenges for the Queen of Merceria. Decisions to be made, leaders to empower, alliances to be formed. A real page turner from beginning to end. An adventure you won’t want to miss!
April 13, 2020
Great story constant action. I loved this whole series! Paul Bennett has become one of my favorite authors,
May 17, 2020
Excellent Series!
Thoroughly enjoyed the process of reading books 1 through 7. Looking forward to more stories written by Paul J Bennett.
Thoroughly enjoyed the process of reading books 1 through 7. Looking forward to more stories written by Paul J Bennett.
June 5, 2020
Another excellent addition to the Servant of the Crown series by Paul J. Bennett. Readers of Tolkein will enjoy this series!
June 23, 2020
Great pace! All of your favourite, lesser characters are busy and given a chapter or two. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
July 17, 2020
I have enjoyed all the books in this series.
December 30, 2021
I just love the characters and storyline of this book. It has plenty of action and adventure to keep me going to the next book. Love it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews