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Master of War #7
Shadow of the Hawk
Winter, 1364.
The King is dead.
Defeated on the field of Poitiers, Jean Le Bon, King of France, honoured his treaty with England until his death. His son and heir, Charles V, has no intention of doing the same. War is coming and the predators are circling.
Sir Thomas Blackstone, Edward III's Master of War, has been tasked with securing Brittany for England. In the throes of battle, he rescues a young boy, sole witness to the final living breaths of the Queen of Castile. The secret the boy carries is a spark deadly enough to ignite conflict on a new front – a front the English cannot afford to fight on.
So Blackstone is ordered south to Castile, across the mountains to shepherd Don Pedro, King of Castile, to safety. Accompanied only by a small detachment of his men and a band of Moorish cavalrymen loyal to the king, every step takes Blackstone further into uncertain territory, deeper into an unyielding snare.
For the Master of War, the shadow of death is always present.
The King is dead.
Defeated on the field of Poitiers, Jean Le Bon, King of France, honoured his treaty with England until his death. His son and heir, Charles V, has no intention of doing the same. War is coming and the predators are circling.
Sir Thomas Blackstone, Edward III's Master of War, has been tasked with securing Brittany for England. In the throes of battle, he rescues a young boy, sole witness to the final living breaths of the Queen of Castile. The secret the boy carries is a spark deadly enough to ignite conflict on a new front – a front the English cannot afford to fight on.
So Blackstone is ordered south to Castile, across the mountains to shepherd Don Pedro, King of Castile, to safety. Accompanied only by a small detachment of his men and a band of Moorish cavalrymen loyal to the king, every step takes Blackstone further into uncertain territory, deeper into an unyielding snare.
For the Master of War, the shadow of death is always present.
538 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
374 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
David Gilman
48 books418 followersDavid Gilman was raised in Liverpool and educated in Wales. By the time he was 16 he was driving a battered 1946 Ford, ferrying construction workers in the African bush. A variety of jobs followed in different countries: fire and rescue, forestry work, JCB driver, window dresser and professional photographer in an advertising agency. He served in the Parachute Regiment’s Reconnaissance Platoon and then worked in publishing. In 1986 he turned to full-time writing. He has written many radio and television scripts including several years of ‘A Touch of Frost’. In 2007 his ‘Danger Zone’ trilogy for YA was sold in 15 countries. The first in the series – The Devil’s Breath was long listed for the CILIP Carnegie Medal and won the French Prix Polar Jeunesse. He also writes for younger children. MONKEY and ME has been nominated for the Carnegie Medal. ‘MASTER of WAR’ is the first in a series of HF for adults that follows the fortunes of Thomas Blackstone during the 100 Years’ War. The 7th volume - 'SHADOW OF THE HAWK' is published in February 2021.
A new contemporary thriller series - THE ENGLISHMAN - was published in 2020 to critical acclaim. The second book in The Englishman series will be published in early 2022.
A new contemporary thriller series - THE ENGLISHMAN - was published in 2020 to critical acclaim. The second book in The Englishman series will be published in early 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 7, 2021
Outstanding Read!!!!!!
So is this the end of Blackstone's ride?? This series has been one hell of a ride. It has been a pleasure to read. All the ugliness an hate has come down to the last book. In alot of places in the story all I could do was cry for the of characters that fought so hard to live a life. Blackstone an his men fight over powering odes an come out winning the day. But at a great loss.
So if this is the end of Blackstone an his men an he is to be put on the shelf all I can say is..... I WANT MORE, I WANT MORE!!!!!!
Fantastic work!!!!!
So is this the end of Blackstone's ride?? This series has been one hell of a ride. It has been a pleasure to read. All the ugliness an hate has come down to the last book. In alot of places in the story all I could do was cry for the of characters that fought so hard to live a life. Blackstone an his men fight over powering odes an come out winning the day. But at a great loss.
So if this is the end of Blackstone an his men an he is to be put on the shelf all I can say is..... I WANT MORE, I WANT MORE!!!!!!
Fantastic work!!!!!
January 3, 2026
Like every other book on this series, this one also puts you in the edge of your chair with constant turn of events. The range of characters, events and the locations being alive those intent, interesting moments vivid and clear.
The wars and journey that Thomas Blackstone and his band of die hard fighters take you to, are adventures that never let you be bored even for a moment.
The wars and journey that Thomas Blackstone and his band of die hard fighters take you to, are adventures that never let you be bored even for a moment.
February 13, 2021
Another Gilman success!
Another cracking good read and historical ripping yarn from David Gilman. I've really enjoyed the Blackthorne series and this latest book doesn't disappoint. I found once I started reading, the pace of the storyline meant I didn't want to put the book down. This novel contains some excellent villains in the form of De Hayle, the routier, Don Pedro, a despicable king and his evil female sorceress Velasquita. His old companions in arms are all there and contribute their own distinct personalities, such as Sir Gilbert Killbere, Meulon, Will Longdon and Co. I find I've become attached to them now. So I was sad to reach the end of this latest great adventure and only hope Gilman will follow on with another. Highly recommended!
Another cracking good read and historical ripping yarn from David Gilman. I've really enjoyed the Blackthorne series and this latest book doesn't disappoint. I found once I started reading, the pace of the storyline meant I didn't want to put the book down. This novel contains some excellent villains in the form of De Hayle, the routier, Don Pedro, a despicable king and his evil female sorceress Velasquita. His old companions in arms are all there and contribute their own distinct personalities, such as Sir Gilbert Killbere, Meulon, Will Longdon and Co. I find I've become attached to them now. So I was sad to reach the end of this latest great adventure and only hope Gilman will follow on with another. Highly recommended!
June 2, 2021
Shadow of the Hawk is the latest (last) in the Master of War series from David Gilman. I am sorry that I have only learned about these books now rather than at the start because I know that I have missed out on a lot of great reading. I realize I could pick up the first 6 books to read later but if you could see my “to read later” books you would know why I am not. Although I might still do so because this book was that good.
Even though this book covers history I have read about many times before it seems fresh due to Mr. Gilman’s characters and his presentation of the conflict between England, France and Spain. Many of those books have focused on Simon de Montfort and his role going forward in history but here the star of the tale is Sir Thomas Blackstone – the King’s Master of War. He is a very compelling character; upstanding, righteous, but still a man of his time.
I started the book and fell quickly into the story and despite it being set in a hard world, I didn’t want to leave. The story was familiar and not all at the same time. The history of the 100 years war is well known but Mr. Gilman takes his fictional characters into the fray and the lucky reader finds that they are along for one heck of a ride – hopefully on the warhorse of the right warrior so as to survive the battle. And you will feel like you are in the heart of it.
Blackstone and his band of soldiers fight for the king – sometimes with support and other times against overwhelming odds. They are well trained, loyal men and follow their leader where he wouldst go. Along the way they acquire a physician who happens to be Jewish and a young boy who harbours a secret that makes him a very dangerous traveling companion. But once under Blackstone’s wing he will be safe.
If you are looking for adventure and history by all means pick up this book. Be aware that it being a book about war it is not pretty and some passages are hard to read. Nothing gratuitous but war is war. And always be on the lookout for the hawk flying overhead…it might portend something momentous.
Even though this book covers history I have read about many times before it seems fresh due to Mr. Gilman’s characters and his presentation of the conflict between England, France and Spain. Many of those books have focused on Simon de Montfort and his role going forward in history but here the star of the tale is Sir Thomas Blackstone – the King’s Master of War. He is a very compelling character; upstanding, righteous, but still a man of his time.
I started the book and fell quickly into the story and despite it being set in a hard world, I didn’t want to leave. The story was familiar and not all at the same time. The history of the 100 years war is well known but Mr. Gilman takes his fictional characters into the fray and the lucky reader finds that they are along for one heck of a ride – hopefully on the warhorse of the right warrior so as to survive the battle. And you will feel like you are in the heart of it.
Blackstone and his band of soldiers fight for the king – sometimes with support and other times against overwhelming odds. They are well trained, loyal men and follow their leader where he wouldst go. Along the way they acquire a physician who happens to be Jewish and a young boy who harbours a secret that makes him a very dangerous traveling companion. But once under Blackstone’s wing he will be safe.
If you are looking for adventure and history by all means pick up this book. Be aware that it being a book about war it is not pretty and some passages are hard to read. Nothing gratuitous but war is war. And always be on the lookout for the hawk flying overhead…it might portend something momentous.
October 19, 2025
A highly entertaining and well written series that is a treat on audio. The performance of Gildart Jackson narrating takes it from really good to great. Vivid characters and unique storylines make this author an auto buy for me. Some books are simply made for the stage…
October 7, 2021
This just may be the best book in the series so far. And that (bold claim) is saying an awful lot! Bravo, Mr.G!
April 14, 2024
This well written and researched book brings Blackstone into new territory, Spain. There are a lot of intense moments in this book, but the ending is the most memorable of all! The way the author describes King Don Pedro, it makes one wonder who would have followed a hateful man such as this? Leaning about the Moors, their faithfulness, honor, and fighting skills unseen by the Brits before, made me appreciate them!
February 16, 2021
Another Masterpiece
Absolutely first class. Action packed throughout. Could not put this latest book down. Desperately awaiting book 8. Thank you once again.
Absolutely first class. Action packed throughout. Could not put this latest book down. Desperately awaiting book 8. Thank you once again.
March 18, 2021
Blimey
Have read the last six books and this one has it all from start to finish. How the author comes up with basically the same theme and makes it still fresh and a nail-bitingly page turner is a great skill. Plots, intrigue, and favourite characters killed off. Blimey what a great read.
Have read the last six books and this one has it all from start to finish. How the author comes up with basically the same theme and makes it still fresh and a nail-bitingly page turner is a great skill. Plots, intrigue, and favourite characters killed off. Blimey what a great read.
March 4, 2021
What can I say have have followed this series from book 1 when young archers set off to fight in France. Yet another truly excellent book to follow on the adventures of Sir Blackstone and his loyal men yet again they are thrown once more into the turmoil & hardship of battle more loyal friends due at the hands of the French with treachery afoot. Another well written book great characters well done
February 28, 2021
My 💔 is broken on Valentines Day. Wonder why? It is the day I completed Shadow of the Hawk. I should have known better to distance myself to fictional characters, for there is no certainty of their survival. On this entry, Blackstone and his men were given a task of securing the King of Castille safety. A rigorous and dangerous journey. The men brought an age old humor between comrades which constantly brought laughter to one’s self. There is happiness to the sadness. Looking forward to the next volume of the Master of War.
February 6, 2024
I powered through all 7 of these books, which kept me intrigued for a little over a week. They are very complex until you figure out the action really doesn't change too much from book to book. The faces and names vary, as there are new villains within each book, but the action is repetitive and a bit redundant. This is not to say they aren't interesting and fast paced. But there are the same challenges, settings, missions, oaths, contracts, promises and humiliations spread out over the entire (to date) series. Thomas Blackstone comes close to death dozens of times but each time he manages to survive and the baddies suffer loss of limb and ultimately, life. Over and over again.
I thought I had made it to the end of the series only to find there is at least one, possibly two more to get through.
I can't do it.
It seems there are vast swathes of material that are lifted as paragraphs in situ, cut and pasted to describe the armor, the weapons, the archery skills, the famous English Yew bows used by every single archer in these stories. The fighters eat pottage. I know what that is, and I must say it's a bit disgusting. Almost every scene that describes encampment also has it's share of pottage being warmed over the embers of a dying fire. And on that same subject of repetition, I must have seen the same phrases used dozens of times to describe the talismans, the tactics, the will of God and protection of Goddess, page after page, and book after book. After reading the same descriptions so often, I lost a great deal of interest in how they each concluded. You can smell each intrigue a few chapters into each tale. Along with the pottage, they begin to lose their flavor after a while.
The hero/protagonist is Thomas Blackstone, originally an archer who was serving the English King Edward in the leading battle of the series, the famous battle on French soil at Cre`cy in 1350's France. Following that stunning battle, Blackstone is dragged from the field to the young Prince Edward (3) also known as the Black Prince. Blackstone is knighted for his service and for saving the life of the young Prince. That starts their rocky relationship for the next 20+ years. Critically injured, and surviving only by luck and sheer stubborn inner strength, Blackstone eventually recovers only to find he will never again be able to draw his bow and continue the fight as he intended. So he becomes a soldier committed to horse and foot warrior engagements. He fights in every subsequent battle, names of which are recorded in history with terrifying regularity. For purposes of my review I don't think I need to recount each one, only to stress that no matter his injuries, the spirit continues to rally and he survives each and every battle ever mounted. But eventually his luck is challenged and seems to run out. A series of personal misfortunes and tragedies takes a great toll on the young warrior and for a time, he vanishes from sight and falls far from his comrades and their everyday struggles between warring factions and over disputes that kill more than they actually resolve conflicts. Rescued eventually from his self induced stupor and tragic life circumstances, Blackstone returns to the field as the Black Prince's right hand warrior and eventually the King's Master of War. Life surges on for Blackstone and his itinerant troops. He becomes rather a mercenary as well, selling his sword for gold or plunder, buying his freedom one skirmish at a time. Those never end, BTW. One fight is another before one book ends and the next begins.
As the series spins out, Blackstone takes on more tasks involving the politics of the Prince Edward (3), who rather enlists him and his faithful followers to seek ever more determined and diabolical mercenaries and brigands as the nation of France is plunged deeper into chaos and closer to civil war. Kings and princes do not fight as do common men. That point is highlighted repeatedly. Blackstone takes their battles on as his own and overwhelms and overcomes all takers as the stakes grow ever more complex and demand constant armed response to the differences between countries and kings. Almost like the GOP and Democrats, except todays political differences don't use physical swords or daggers, just poisonous editorials and social media as weapons of choice. In our world, there are only corrupt politicians, greed and power. In the world of Thomas Blackstone, there is just vicious fighting and death everywhere.
So, the battles rage and the blood flows rich and rank in the streets, the fields, the mountainous crags and the hidden valleys. The land is unforgiving and yet brutally beautiful, but death lurks at every pass and in every alley.
By book seven, Shadow of the Hawk, I had about my fill of the series. I thought I could move on to another author, another series or another genre. And then I see there is book 8 and possibly book 9.
Sorry, but my interest has declined and I am weary of Thomas Blackstone, no matter who he is fighting for or what demons he may have to face.
I think I did pretty well, for a series that doesn't change very much from book to book. This would have been an insurmountable task to plow through had it been contained in just one or two volumes, but I just can't keep going, 400+ pages at a time, no matter how much I like the characters, the history and the events of the time period.
Maybe I will return to pick up where I left off, but for now I really need a break from the agony of horses dying, the clash of swords and the spilling of blood on battlefields long dead to one world and not developed by our current world, and scarcely remembered by readers today.
This series is absorbing, but because I finally found it a little bit drawn out and over the top for historical dramedy, I am giving it a rest and moving on to something of a more modern age to read. If you like historical reenactment, this series is well worth your time, but be prepared to be overwhelmed at some point in time and possibly, as did I, find yourself needing something a bit more on the current list of books to provide entertainment and history, all at once.
I would note to the author that the series is very well done, but some of the typos and grammatical errors cry out for improved editing and proofreading.
All in all, 4/5.
I thought I had made it to the end of the series only to find there is at least one, possibly two more to get through.
I can't do it.
It seems there are vast swathes of material that are lifted as paragraphs in situ, cut and pasted to describe the armor, the weapons, the archery skills, the famous English Yew bows used by every single archer in these stories. The fighters eat pottage. I know what that is, and I must say it's a bit disgusting. Almost every scene that describes encampment also has it's share of pottage being warmed over the embers of a dying fire. And on that same subject of repetition, I must have seen the same phrases used dozens of times to describe the talismans, the tactics, the will of God and protection of Goddess, page after page, and book after book. After reading the same descriptions so often, I lost a great deal of interest in how they each concluded. You can smell each intrigue a few chapters into each tale. Along with the pottage, they begin to lose their flavor after a while.
The hero/protagonist is Thomas Blackstone, originally an archer who was serving the English King Edward in the leading battle of the series, the famous battle on French soil at Cre`cy in 1350's France. Following that stunning battle, Blackstone is dragged from the field to the young Prince Edward (3) also known as the Black Prince. Blackstone is knighted for his service and for saving the life of the young Prince. That starts their rocky relationship for the next 20+ years. Critically injured, and surviving only by luck and sheer stubborn inner strength, Blackstone eventually recovers only to find he will never again be able to draw his bow and continue the fight as he intended. So he becomes a soldier committed to horse and foot warrior engagements. He fights in every subsequent battle, names of which are recorded in history with terrifying regularity. For purposes of my review I don't think I need to recount each one, only to stress that no matter his injuries, the spirit continues to rally and he survives each and every battle ever mounted. But eventually his luck is challenged and seems to run out. A series of personal misfortunes and tragedies takes a great toll on the young warrior and for a time, he vanishes from sight and falls far from his comrades and their everyday struggles between warring factions and over disputes that kill more than they actually resolve conflicts. Rescued eventually from his self induced stupor and tragic life circumstances, Blackstone returns to the field as the Black Prince's right hand warrior and eventually the King's Master of War. Life surges on for Blackstone and his itinerant troops. He becomes rather a mercenary as well, selling his sword for gold or plunder, buying his freedom one skirmish at a time. Those never end, BTW. One fight is another before one book ends and the next begins.
As the series spins out, Blackstone takes on more tasks involving the politics of the Prince Edward (3), who rather enlists him and his faithful followers to seek ever more determined and diabolical mercenaries and brigands as the nation of France is plunged deeper into chaos and closer to civil war. Kings and princes do not fight as do common men. That point is highlighted repeatedly. Blackstone takes their battles on as his own and overwhelms and overcomes all takers as the stakes grow ever more complex and demand constant armed response to the differences between countries and kings. Almost like the GOP and Democrats, except todays political differences don't use physical swords or daggers, just poisonous editorials and social media as weapons of choice. In our world, there are only corrupt politicians, greed and power. In the world of Thomas Blackstone, there is just vicious fighting and death everywhere.
So, the battles rage and the blood flows rich and rank in the streets, the fields, the mountainous crags and the hidden valleys. The land is unforgiving and yet brutally beautiful, but death lurks at every pass and in every alley.
By book seven, Shadow of the Hawk, I had about my fill of the series. I thought I could move on to another author, another series or another genre. And then I see there is book 8 and possibly book 9.
Sorry, but my interest has declined and I am weary of Thomas Blackstone, no matter who he is fighting for or what demons he may have to face.
I think I did pretty well, for a series that doesn't change very much from book to book. This would have been an insurmountable task to plow through had it been contained in just one or two volumes, but I just can't keep going, 400+ pages at a time, no matter how much I like the characters, the history and the events of the time period.
Maybe I will return to pick up where I left off, but for now I really need a break from the agony of horses dying, the clash of swords and the spilling of blood on battlefields long dead to one world and not developed by our current world, and scarcely remembered by readers today.
This series is absorbing, but because I finally found it a little bit drawn out and over the top for historical dramedy, I am giving it a rest and moving on to something of a more modern age to read. If you like historical reenactment, this series is well worth your time, but be prepared to be overwhelmed at some point in time and possibly, as did I, find yourself needing something a bit more on the current list of books to provide entertainment and history, all at once.
I would note to the author that the series is very well done, but some of the typos and grammatical errors cry out for improved editing and proofreading.
All in all, 4/5.
March 10, 2021
This series always delivers and each time I look at the considerable sized book I can’t wait to get lost in it.
Never a chore and I savour every chapter.
The characters are absorbing and full of humour and banter. The battles savage and brutal. I read on the edge of my seat. On reflection there are no cunning plots or incredible twists. Just great storytelling.
Looking forward to chapter 8.
Thoroughly recommended.
Never a chore and I savour every chapter.
The characters are absorbing and full of humour and banter. The battles savage and brutal. I read on the edge of my seat. On reflection there are no cunning plots or incredible twists. Just great storytelling.
Looking forward to chapter 8.
Thoroughly recommended.
March 7, 2021
Brilliant storyline
Oh how I've missed Thomas Blackstone and men, again you are taken through a story of intrigue and battles, and even a little magic! The story is fast paced with great characters, and is slowly built towards the end. I have caught myself reading it to the wee small hours it was that good, sad in places and funny in others a very good read.
Oh how I've missed Thomas Blackstone and men, again you are taken through a story of intrigue and battles, and even a little magic! The story is fast paced with great characters, and is slowly built towards the end. I have caught myself reading it to the wee small hours it was that good, sad in places and funny in others a very good read.
March 22, 2024
O rei John, da França, morreu. Blackstone não pode se vingar como ele gostaria de una das grandes batalhas do início da Guerra dos 100 anos.
Sobe então ao trono o filho e herdeiro, Charles, o Delfim. Que apesar de ter uma aparências enfraquecida, nunca ter liderado um exército e nem ter aptidão para a batalha, é inteligente e consegue montar boas estratégias para seus planos, sendo um inimigo mais ardiloso para a coroa inglesa enfrentar.
Esses movimentos nos governos da região reacendem animosidades e novos conflitos surgem na intenção de reacomodar/ampliar territórios conquistados.
Vendo o príncipe inglês governar com certa tranquilidade a Aquitânia e fortalecer suas fronteiras através de alianças, o rei Charles resolve investir em uma jogada ousada para causar desconforto aos ingleses.
Sabendo que o rei Don Pedro do reino de Castile e León possui graves acusações contra ele, já foi excomungado pela Igreja e não é unanimidade em seu reino, o rei da França resolve se aliar ao Papa e mandar forças para a Espanha com a desculpa de promover uma cruzada e livrar aquelas terras da presença dos mouros, que assim como os judeus e os muçulmanos, possuem proteção real e são bem-vindos para viver na Espanha. Mas o real objetivo dessa incursão é dar respaldo e força para um meio-irmão do rei Don Pedro, aliado da França, na sua pretensão de obter a coroa e assim colocar um aliado da França nas costas do príncipe inglês na Aquitânia. Aumentando o perigo e a preocupação dele de um possível ataque francês.
A coroa inglesa não tem outra alternativa senão apoiar o rei Don Pedro, o qual consideram o rei legítimo de Castile e León. E a missão é retirá-lo em segurança de suas terras, levá-lo para a Aquitânia para que, com o apoio do exército inglês, consiga invadir seu reino para retomar seu trono. E ninguém mais poderia ser incumbido dessa missão do que Mestre da Guerra inglês, Thomas Blackstone, e seus homens.
Essa é a parte histórica real no qual este livro está baseado. A ficção está em um enredo paralelo, onde a rainha consorte de Castile e Leon, uma jovem que possui parentesco com o trono francês, é assassinada e apenas um jovem servo é testemunha do ocorrido, mas não é claro o quanto ele sabe sobre quem matou e o motivo pois o mesmo é um fugitivo.
Este jovem, através de idas e vindas, vai parar sob a proteção de Blackstone e seus homens, que vão protegê-lo, assim como o seu segredo pois a vida e a morte do jovem é valiosa para mais de uma coroa e o segredo que ele guarda pode ser destruidor para muitos reis.
O livro possui um plot que volta a ficar interessante, diferente dos dois últimos, e além disso Blackstone vai se aventurar por um terreno desconhecido e ainda não explorado na série. O ritmo e a forma como a história vai se desenvolvendo, envolta em mistério, intrigas e traições lembra muito o quarto livro, que mostra uma jornada na nas cidades-estado italianas.
As batalhas monumentais ainda existem e estão no livro, mas dessa vez não é só batalha por páginas e páginas e tem uma história por trás.
De ponto negativo, fica mais uma vez a construção ruim de uma personalidade feminina. Novamente, uma personagem misteriosa, que fica claro que vai se envolver com o protagonista e que possui encantamentos e capacidade de seduzir homens que é tratada como bruxa. Isso tornou essa parte da trama muito previsível.
E, sobre desfechos, os de alguns personagens mais pro final do livro são ruins e tudo acontece muito rápido. Até algumas ações tomadas por Thomas não condizem com toda construção dele na série e são questionáveis, inclusive o final.
A série volta a empolgar um pouco mais e deixa em aberto uma trama familiar para ser explorada posteriormente.
Sobe então ao trono o filho e herdeiro, Charles, o Delfim. Que apesar de ter uma aparências enfraquecida, nunca ter liderado um exército e nem ter aptidão para a batalha, é inteligente e consegue montar boas estratégias para seus planos, sendo um inimigo mais ardiloso para a coroa inglesa enfrentar.
Esses movimentos nos governos da região reacendem animosidades e novos conflitos surgem na intenção de reacomodar/ampliar territórios conquistados.
Vendo o príncipe inglês governar com certa tranquilidade a Aquitânia e fortalecer suas fronteiras através de alianças, o rei Charles resolve investir em uma jogada ousada para causar desconforto aos ingleses.
Sabendo que o rei Don Pedro do reino de Castile e León possui graves acusações contra ele, já foi excomungado pela Igreja e não é unanimidade em seu reino, o rei da França resolve se aliar ao Papa e mandar forças para a Espanha com a desculpa de promover uma cruzada e livrar aquelas terras da presença dos mouros, que assim como os judeus e os muçulmanos, possuem proteção real e são bem-vindos para viver na Espanha. Mas o real objetivo dessa incursão é dar respaldo e força para um meio-irmão do rei Don Pedro, aliado da França, na sua pretensão de obter a coroa e assim colocar um aliado da França nas costas do príncipe inglês na Aquitânia. Aumentando o perigo e a preocupação dele de um possível ataque francês.
A coroa inglesa não tem outra alternativa senão apoiar o rei Don Pedro, o qual consideram o rei legítimo de Castile e León. E a missão é retirá-lo em segurança de suas terras, levá-lo para a Aquitânia para que, com o apoio do exército inglês, consiga invadir seu reino para retomar seu trono. E ninguém mais poderia ser incumbido dessa missão do que Mestre da Guerra inglês, Thomas Blackstone, e seus homens.
Essa é a parte histórica real no qual este livro está baseado. A ficção está em um enredo paralelo, onde a rainha consorte de Castile e Leon, uma jovem que possui parentesco com o trono francês, é assassinada e apenas um jovem servo é testemunha do ocorrido, mas não é claro o quanto ele sabe sobre quem matou e o motivo pois o mesmo é um fugitivo.
Este jovem, através de idas e vindas, vai parar sob a proteção de Blackstone e seus homens, que vão protegê-lo, assim como o seu segredo pois a vida e a morte do jovem é valiosa para mais de uma coroa e o segredo que ele guarda pode ser destruidor para muitos reis.
O livro possui um plot que volta a ficar interessante, diferente dos dois últimos, e além disso Blackstone vai se aventurar por um terreno desconhecido e ainda não explorado na série. O ritmo e a forma como a história vai se desenvolvendo, envolta em mistério, intrigas e traições lembra muito o quarto livro, que mostra uma jornada na nas cidades-estado italianas.
As batalhas monumentais ainda existem e estão no livro, mas dessa vez não é só batalha por páginas e páginas e tem uma história por trás.
De ponto negativo, fica mais uma vez a construção ruim de uma personalidade feminina. Novamente, uma personagem misteriosa, que fica claro que vai se envolver com o protagonista e que possui encantamentos e capacidade de seduzir homens que é tratada como bruxa. Isso tornou essa parte da trama muito previsível.
E, sobre desfechos, os de alguns personagens mais pro final do livro são ruins e tudo acontece muito rápido. Até algumas ações tomadas por Thomas não condizem com toda construção dele na série e são questionáveis, inclusive o final.
A série volta a empolgar um pouco mais e deixa em aberto uma trama familiar para ser explorada posteriormente.
July 10, 2021
The fictional Sir Thomas Blackstone is the early part of The Hundred Years War's Richard Sharpe. There is a rider, The Hundred Years War, and the behaviour of those taking part, was nastier and crueller than the fictional Sharpe's Napoleonic War. Another difference is David Gilman is more prepared to kill off characters you know and like than Bernard Cornwell is: so be prepared for that.
This tale is the 7th book in teh Master of War series and this time deals in part with the war of the Brittany succession and in part with the French involvement in the replacement of King Pedro of Castile by his bastard half brother. I am sure Gilman is setting the scene for his next Master of War book with Blackstone being involved with the Battle of Nájera ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_... ) which, temporarily, put Pedro back on his throne.
Something different in this book, compared to the earlier ones in the series, is the involvement of witchcraft: I am still undecided on whether this enhanced or diminished the story: whatever - this is, in my opinion, a Five Star book.
This tale is the 7th book in teh Master of War series and this time deals in part with the war of the Brittany succession and in part with the French involvement in the replacement of King Pedro of Castile by his bastard half brother. I am sure Gilman is setting the scene for his next Master of War book with Blackstone being involved with the Battle of Nájera ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_... ) which, temporarily, put Pedro back on his throne.
Something different in this book, compared to the earlier ones in the series, is the involvement of witchcraft: I am still undecided on whether this enhanced or diminished the story: whatever - this is, in my opinion, a Five Star book.
April 15, 2021
Great Read - With only a few Exceptions
At times I wondered how Blackstone could be such a thick-skulled character with so many superlative traits. For sure it’s easy to second guess him, even know in advance what’s going to go down in a crisis...and wonder if such a clever fellow can make so many mistakes.
Some of his decisions cost good men and women their lives or health...and it’s hard when a valued captain bites the Big ‘Un.
The pacing and time between his action sequences are well planned to bring you on. My personal preference is for shorter and fewer periods of introspection and rumination, which Mr. Gilman is in tune with - or I’m in tune with.
It’s well worth reading.
At times I wondered how Blackstone could be such a thick-skulled character with so many superlative traits. For sure it’s easy to second guess him, even know in advance what’s going to go down in a crisis...and wonder if such a clever fellow can make so many mistakes.
Some of his decisions cost good men and women their lives or health...and it’s hard when a valued captain bites the Big ‘Un.
The pacing and time between his action sequences are well planned to bring you on. My personal preference is for shorter and fewer periods of introspection and rumination, which Mr. Gilman is in tune with - or I’m in tune with.
It’s well worth reading.
January 19, 2026
Of all the Blackstone books so far, this is possibly my favourite. There is a fine balance between excessive machismo and battles, and political intrigue and deception. I found the Spanish adventures of this book, it's vengeful through line and the numerous sympathetic side characters made the overall story more emotionally compelling than the last book in the series. There are awful villains, burly but likeable leads, and some fantastic battle sequences - particularly the climactic battle at the bridge which was exciting throughout.
It's not complex or groundbreaking fiction but it is so, so readable. I am sad I only have one left in the series!
It's not complex or groundbreaking fiction but it is so, so readable. I am sad I only have one left in the series!
April 2, 2021
Satisfying
I have been an avid reader of the MoW series and jumped with enthusiasm when I saw this new title pop up. So I am surprised as I just finished the last page that this addition did not drive me to the same degree as the previous six. And I can't truly state why. I enjoyed the fraternity between Blackstone and his men, as always. And the geography and historic detail were certainly enjoyable. So maybe it is that the 'bad guy's of the story were not as.compelling?
Still, I recommend the book and the series and will be back for number eight.
I have been an avid reader of the MoW series and jumped with enthusiasm when I saw this new title pop up. So I am surprised as I just finished the last page that this addition did not drive me to the same degree as the previous six. And I can't truly state why. I enjoyed the fraternity between Blackstone and his men, as always. And the geography and historic detail were certainly enjoyable. So maybe it is that the 'bad guy's of the story were not as.compelling?
Still, I recommend the book and the series and will be back for number eight.
April 10, 2021
Over the pass 7 books I’ve come to realize 2 things about this author.
1. His fights scene and battles are amazingly descriptive.
2. He cannot write about women. Same formula used in almost every book. Meet a women, sleep with her, she dies.
This book had some good fights however the ending was really really stupid and may be the most unrealistic part of this series.
There is also no character progression so even if you give a book a miss, bear a couple of secondary characters who has very little to do in the series who dies, you won’t miss anything.
1. His fights scene and battles are amazingly descriptive.
2. He cannot write about women. Same formula used in almost every book. Meet a women, sleep with her, she dies.
This book had some good fights however the ending was really really stupid and may be the most unrealistic part of this series.
There is also no character progression so even if you give a book a miss, bear a couple of secondary characters who has very little to do in the series who dies, you won’t miss anything.
July 31, 2021
Captivating Story and Characters
Haven't read seven books without getting engrossed j
Into the political intrigue around Western Europe during the Hundreds Years War. More importantly the characters become a part of every day for me. I kept thinking the epitaph would be John showing up to tell Henry the bad news... No words, he'd know because of the symbolism of it not being his father at a doorway. Get writing Mr. Gilman, we're waiting!!! Check out The Talon Series if you need another great story, great story and characters.
Haven't read seven books without getting engrossed j
Into the political intrigue around Western Europe during the Hundreds Years War. More importantly the characters become a part of every day for me. I kept thinking the epitaph would be John showing up to tell Henry the bad news... No words, he'd know because of the symbolism of it not being his father at a doorway. Get writing Mr. Gilman, we're waiting!!! Check out The Talon Series if you need another great story, great story and characters.
December 27, 2021
Eine nette Romanserie, gerade jetzt, wo Sharpe zu Ende gegangen ist. Die Missionen werden wie bei Cornwell immer weniger historisch, die Geschichte ist nur noch der Aufhänger. Bei Sharpe führte der Weg nach Waterloo, wo geht er hier hin. Unterhaltsam mit etwas Längen. Vielleicht ist das aber nur subjektiv, da die mysteriösen Sprenkel in diesem Buch mich nicht so überzeugen. Und die Geschichte zeigt, dass sinnlose Unternehmungen unnötige Opfer verlangen. Es geht sicher weiter mit Sir Thomas Blackstone.
August 5, 2022
3.5 rounded up. I like these books despite the gore and despite the unbelievable exploits of Blackhawk and his team. All of them should be dead by now. So if you're going to read these, put your Realism radar on hold and just enjoy a rousing, swashbuckling, slashing good time.
This book feels like the end of the series so I don't know whether the author plans to continue or not.. He certainly left himself open for another book. If the series is done, it was an unsatisfying ending and I will miss Blackhawk.
This book feels like the end of the series so I don't know whether the author plans to continue or not.. He certainly left himself open for another book. If the series is done, it was an unsatisfying ending and I will miss Blackhawk.
February 22, 2021
I know I was told that this could be read as a stand alone but I couldn't do it. I sat down and speed read the first six books in this series and I am HOOKED!! I devoured this one in two days and I could not put it down. This world that the author has created is golden and I need another one now! This was an all absorbing book that will suck you in and make you fall for it hard. The characters were perfect and so was the story. Seriously I have nothing bad to say about this one.
June 7, 2021
Another excellent read in an excellent series.
David Gilman can write. Extremely well. And in his Master of War series he has created one on the best in the historical fiction genre.
His great ability is to make you believe in his characters authenticity and in their surroundings. You smell the filth and stench of unwashed bodies and the chaos of battle.
Shadow of the Hawk is as rewarding an historical novel as I have read in the past year. Read and enjoy.
David Gilman can write. Extremely well. And in his Master of War series he has created one on the best in the historical fiction genre.
His great ability is to make you believe in his characters authenticity and in their surroundings. You smell the filth and stench of unwashed bodies and the chaos of battle.
Shadow of the Hawk is as rewarding an historical novel as I have read in the past year. Read and enjoy.
March 18, 2021
Gilman is quite a storyteller. This series is best started from the beginning. While these are mainly fast-paced, action and battle tales set in the late 1370s there is enough character development, intrigue and story building to hook a reader. Then there is quite a bit of well researched history mixed in with the fictional action. Not unlike Bernard Cornwell, and every bit as well written.
March 31, 2021
Action and Great Story Lines Makes For A Heady Mix
Yet another Master of War novel that has kept my interest from page one to the end and once again shows that superb writing and action continues to put David Gilman at the very top of authors I enjoy. I recommend it to anyone who loves a good read and the historical notes that accompany the book. Thank you once again.
Yet another Master of War novel that has kept my interest from page one to the end and once again shows that superb writing and action continues to put David Gilman at the very top of authors I enjoy. I recommend it to anyone who loves a good read and the historical notes that accompany the book. Thank you once again.
June 26, 2021
Another exciting adventure for Thomas Blackstone. Didn't expect the story to be taken to Spain but its a nice change of pace. Not sure how long the Black Prince has to live (historically speaking). Will be interesting how many books the Prince and Blackstone dynamic goes on for and how the author will continue or end the story. Overall though, book was classic Blackstone.
July 10, 2021
Nothing Maudlin Here
Good story and good storytelling. Characters were believable. Writing was crisp and without wasted word or overweening description. Filigree where needed. Simplicity everywhere else, yet the author still manages to convey a complete movie to the imagination of anyone who has one. Good ending, too.
Good story and good storytelling. Characters were believable. Writing was crisp and without wasted word or overweening description. Filigree where needed. Simplicity everywhere else, yet the author still manages to convey a complete movie to the imagination of anyone who has one. Good ending, too.
September 2, 2021
Disappointed
I read all 7 books in the Master of War series and thought they were all 5 star books except this one. This book did not give me the same satisfaction as the other 6. The story did not quench my thirst and seemed to be predictable and rushed, especially the ending. However, if there is a book 8, I will try it.
I read all 7 books in the Master of War series and thought they were all 5 star books except this one. This book did not give me the same satisfaction as the other 6. The story did not quench my thirst and seemed to be predictable and rushed, especially the ending. However, if there is a book 8, I will try it.
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