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Sons of Britain #1
Marked by Fire
An older cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
When two warriors collide in secret, no legend is set in stone.
Eighteen-year-old Arthur burns for two things: a warrior's ink, and Bedwyr, his older brother's shieldmate.
Though the warlord's son is beyond his reach, a Saxon incursion finally brings Arthur's chance at the tattoo that will brand him a fighter.
But when he abandons his training in the heat of battle, his reckless ambition costs Bedwyr his sword hand.
+
Once, Bedwyr trusted in two things: he was a warrior, and the presumed heir of Uthyr.
Now, reeling from injury and sent away by his father, he's lost everything. The last person he wants to see is the cub who ignited his disastrous instinct to protect.
Especially when he arrives with Bedwyr's armor and a dangerously hopeful scheme to restore him to his rightful place.
+
MARKED BY FIRE is the 1st novel of the SONS OF BRITAIN series.
Tropes: forced proximity - hurt/comfort - older brother's best friend - virgin hero
CW: violence, graphic injury/treatment, death (battle context)
2nd Edition Note: This title was originally published in 2016 as a novella. The author has significantly expanded the story for republication.
SONS OF BRITAIN series
They're a long way from legendary. Amid the volatility of 6th-century Britain, Arthur and Bedwyr are just two young men, born to fight and bound to their warlord by blood and oath. But when fierce hearts collide, loyalties can shift, creating bonds far stronger—and ideas far riskier—than their world may be ready for.
When two warriors collide in secret, no legend is set in stone.
Eighteen-year-old Arthur burns for two things: a warrior's ink, and Bedwyr, his older brother's shieldmate.
Though the warlord's son is beyond his reach, a Saxon incursion finally brings Arthur's chance at the tattoo that will brand him a fighter.
But when he abandons his training in the heat of battle, his reckless ambition costs Bedwyr his sword hand.
+
Once, Bedwyr trusted in two things: he was a warrior, and the presumed heir of Uthyr.
Now, reeling from injury and sent away by his father, he's lost everything. The last person he wants to see is the cub who ignited his disastrous instinct to protect.
Especially when he arrives with Bedwyr's armor and a dangerously hopeful scheme to restore him to his rightful place.
+
MARKED BY FIRE is the 1st novel of the SONS OF BRITAIN series.
Tropes: forced proximity - hurt/comfort - older brother's best friend - virgin hero
CW: violence, graphic injury/treatment, death (battle context)
2nd Edition Note: This title was originally published in 2016 as a novella. The author has significantly expanded the story for republication.
SONS OF BRITAIN series
They're a long way from legendary. Amid the volatility of 6th-century Britain, Arthur and Bedwyr are just two young men, born to fight and bound to their warlord by blood and oath. But when fierce hearts collide, loyalties can shift, creating bonds far stronger—and ideas far riskier—than their world may be ready for.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2016
About the author
Mia West
49 books190 followersEpic romance, two heroes at a time! My story universe features warriors and blacksmiths, rescue swimmers and hockey players, treasure hunters and time travelers, and quite a few shifters. My favorite kind of hero: a grumpy f*cker who’ll do anything for the man he loves.
Read my entire universe free on AO3!
Novel-length ebooks are free on wide vendors.
Happy reading :)
~ Mia
Read my entire universe free on AO3!
Novel-length ebooks are free on wide vendors.
Happy reading :)
~ Mia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
December 9, 2017
This is an engrossing version of Arthur and Bedwyr, written in a naturalistic historical way without strong magic/mysticism. Both men seem very real, and the setting, context and events feel very plausible. The two men begin with a friend/hero-crush relationship. Bedwyr is the shield-mate of Arthur's older brother. But in a horribly misguided and plausible overconfident teen moment, Arthur's first big mistake costs Bedwyr his sword hand. That shifts everything, and puts the two young men together in a very different relationship, with a lot of anger, guilt, pain and yet hope in it. Arthur is determined to help Bedwyr recover and regain his skill with his other hand. In the process, Arthur begins to find a more mature version of himself.
The romance moves very slowly. There are conflicts that are not easy to resolve, and I really liked that these two men can't live forever in the bubble of Bedwyr's recovery. I appreciated how realistically young these two seem, here at the beginning of their journey. They had flaws, real fears, and the endpoint is not guaranteed. This is a shorter book, and the ending is not a cliff-hanger, but clearly waits for further developments. I moved directly on to book 2.
The romance moves very slowly. There are conflicts that are not easy to resolve, and I really liked that these two men can't live forever in the bubble of Bedwyr's recovery. I appreciated how realistically young these two seem, here at the beginning of their journey. They had flaws, real fears, and the endpoint is not guaranteed. This is a shorter book, and the ending is not a cliff-hanger, but clearly waits for further developments. I moved directly on to book 2.
June 4, 2022
Arthur and Bedwyr were lovely! 😍 I needed a new series to fall in love with, and this just might be it.
January 5, 2024
4.5/5
i'm not really sure what i expected, but this story took me by surprise! it was really well-written with an interesting and likable cast of characters. i also loved the battle scenes—the way they were described made me feel the adrenaline the MCs did as though i was right there with them.
something else i appreciated was that bedwyr's feelings of anger towards arthur (whose negligence basically caused him to lose his sword hand in battle) weren't skimmed over; they were portrayed realistically. it took him time to adjust to his new situation and let go of the resentment associated with it, and understandably so. i also loved how arthur acknowledged his anger and respected the boundaries he initially set, waiting outside for bedwyr's permission to be let into the hut.
i also loved that they had to become tentative friends first. seeing them slowly make progress and grow close to one another was so satisfying to read, and i'm glad west handled the gradual growth of their relationship with care and didn't feel the need to rush things.
one thing i could've done without was arthur constantly being referred to as "cub" (especially during sex scenes: i.e., “The cub’s sac was rosy and not quite drawn tight yet so that he could see the shapes inside.") ...but that's a personal niggle. the MCs' chest hair was also mentioned a lot, which i guess is a plus if you're into that? me personally, not so much. but aside from those tiny details, i really enjoyed how the moments of intimacy between them were written. especially the last one; it was nice to see arthur be so attentive of bedwyr's needs and preferences.
this also ended on a very interesting cliffhanger, so i'll be immediately diving into the next book in the series.
i'm not really sure what i expected, but this story took me by surprise! it was really well-written with an interesting and likable cast of characters. i also loved the battle scenes—the way they were described made me feel the adrenaline the MCs did as though i was right there with them.
something else i appreciated was that bedwyr's feelings of anger towards arthur (whose negligence basically caused him to lose his sword hand in battle) weren't skimmed over; they were portrayed realistically. it took him time to adjust to his new situation and let go of the resentment associated with it, and understandably so. i also loved how arthur acknowledged his anger and respected the boundaries he initially set, waiting outside for bedwyr's permission to be let into the hut.
i also loved that they had to become tentative friends first. seeing them slowly make progress and grow close to one another was so satisfying to read, and i'm glad west handled the gradual growth of their relationship with care and didn't feel the need to rush things.
one thing i could've done without was arthur constantly being referred to as "cub" (especially during sex scenes: i.e., “The cub’s sac was rosy and not quite drawn tight yet so that he could see the shapes inside.") ...but that's a personal niggle. the MCs' chest hair was also mentioned a lot, which i guess is a plus if you're into that? me personally, not so much. but aside from those tiny details, i really enjoyed how the moments of intimacy between them were written. especially the last one; it was nice to see arthur be so attentive of bedwyr's needs and preferences.
this also ended on a very interesting cliffhanger, so i'll be immediately diving into the next book in the series.
June 3, 2022
Romance is everywhere in this Arthurian Retelling! ❤️
Time traveling seems possible with this amazing series (and its prequel series Into the Fire) that tells the tale of every Arthurian mythical character in a totally original and revisited way. While reading it I always feel I’m there with the heroes, all dirty and ferocious, brandishing my sword to protect my loved ones 😆.
I very much appreciate how this amazing author mixed real history knowledge with fantasy details to bring Arthur and his Knights to life.
The whole cast is unforgettable, but the setting is also so well achieve that it seems like another main character on its own. The world building is great, the post Roman Empire/pre Christian European world presence is strong and rich and as important as any love story that could had me momentarily enthralled. The couples are many and amazing! (MM, FF and MF)
The time span that the entire series has (prequel included) gives the chance to enjoy each character from youth to adulthood, also allowing the story to focus on different romantic, friendship and political dynamics worth of decades in the making (Uthyr, I’m waiting for you and your book). More than 50 years transpire through the books, so you get to enjoy not only the lovely cast of 20something yo heroes and heroines, as it is the classic thing for romance stories, but also enjoy them in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s!
The series prequel, about Arthur’s grandfathers, starts with them at the prime of their youth and ends with them being a happy old couple. Then, there is the story of Arthur parents generation. So, if you would like to read stories about young characters as well as mature ones that keep being important and crucial when they no longer have rosy cheeks, this is the one 🤣.
The magical aspect of the story inserts itself by the very beginning but in a very slightly way, so by the time it becomes a fantasy genre story (by book 5), it doesn’t surprise, because the hints were there all along.
I love this world, some books more than others; but the series as a whole is unique and special to me.
The first books are more erotic in content than the next ones, the plot goes slower in these ones in order to focus on the main couples development.
I’ll recommend to start with Wolf’s and Marcus’ story, Into the Fire, some of its volumes where so heartwarming I still think of them in my moments of day dreaming ☺️.
Time traveling seems possible with this amazing series (and its prequel series Into the Fire) that tells the tale of every Arthurian mythical character in a totally original and revisited way. While reading it I always feel I’m there with the heroes, all dirty and ferocious, brandishing my sword to protect my loved ones 😆.
I very much appreciate how this amazing author mixed real history knowledge with fantasy details to bring Arthur and his Knights to life.
The whole cast is unforgettable, but the setting is also so well achieve that it seems like another main character on its own. The world building is great, the post Roman Empire/pre Christian European world presence is strong and rich and as important as any love story that could had me momentarily enthralled. The couples are many and amazing! (MM, FF and MF)
The time span that the entire series has (prequel included) gives the chance to enjoy each character from youth to adulthood, also allowing the story to focus on different romantic, friendship and political dynamics worth of decades in the making (Uthyr, I’m waiting for you and your book). More than 50 years transpire through the books, so you get to enjoy not only the lovely cast of 20something yo heroes and heroines, as it is the classic thing for romance stories, but also enjoy them in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s!
The series prequel, about Arthur’s grandfathers, starts with them at the prime of their youth and ends with them being a happy old couple. Then, there is the story of Arthur parents generation. So, if you would like to read stories about young characters as well as mature ones that keep being important and crucial when they no longer have rosy cheeks, this is the one 🤣.
The magical aspect of the story inserts itself by the very beginning but in a very slightly way, so by the time it becomes a fantasy genre story (by book 5), it doesn’t surprise, because the hints were there all along.
I love this world, some books more than others; but the series as a whole is unique and special to me.
The first books are more erotic in content than the next ones, the plot goes slower in these ones in order to focus on the main couples development.
I’ll recommend to start with Wolf’s and Marcus’ story, Into the Fire, some of its volumes where so heartwarming I still think of them in my moments of day dreaming ☺️.
Want to Read
November 15, 2016Kindle Freebie 11/15/16
November 3, 2017
“You’re stubborn, cub. And gods help me, I like you that way.”
I can’t say that the entire story of this book is bad. In fact, I really enjoyed the moments where the main characters were alone. Arthur and Bedwyr might have lived in the same tribe, but it wasn’t until Bedwyr’s exile that they truly got to know each other.
Bedwyr might have hated Arthur because he costed him his sword hand, but that made the story even more interesting for me. I loved reading about how these two started connecting with each other. Arthur helped Bedwyr heal not only from his injuries, but also from his insecurities and fears that were caused by his father. Their daily routine of sword practicing, fishing and bantering became even better after they found a way to express their feelings for each other.
-“I wanted something like it myself.”
-“You wanted a wife?”
-“Not a wife.”
-“Me neither.”
I really appreciated the fact that they communicated first before they started having sex.
What I didn’t like in this book was the drama with other people and the cheating. This book started with Arthur seeing Bedwyr having sex with another woman and Bedwyr lusting after Arthur’s father. To make things worse, even after Arthur and Bedwyr were together, after a fight Bedwyr cheated on Arthur by kissing his father. All of these things completely ruined the book for me and stopped me from getting really invested in the couple. Had those type of scenes not existed, i would have given this book a much higher rating.
I voluntarily reviewed the free copy that I received.
July 2, 2021
this easily could have been 4 stars had it been longer.
im not exactly sure what arthurian tale this is retelling, but i enjoyed it. i like the setting and the idea of the story. i just wish there was more. maybe some time could have been spent in the beginning showing the boys growing up - that may have provided some foundation for arthurs feelings, as well as established some world-building.
but overall, a quick, entertaining novella. i would be willing to continue the series at some point.
↠ 3.5 stars
im not exactly sure what arthurian tale this is retelling, but i enjoyed it. i like the setting and the idea of the story. i just wish there was more. maybe some time could have been spent in the beginning showing the boys growing up - that may have provided some foundation for arthurs feelings, as well as established some world-building.
but overall, a quick, entertaining novella. i would be willing to continue the series at some point.
↠ 3.5 stars
Want to Read
January 3, 2023💝FREE on Amazon today (9/17/18)!💝
July 7, 2021
I'm an impatient reader. It's particularly a problem with any historical romance. But this one, with its unusual setting and perfect, world-specific similes, won me over and kept me interested. Great characters, great plot, and I'm about to buy book 2. I'm impressed.
March 19, 2021
Gay medieval warriors? Have you met me? YES PLEASE!!! Short but very mutual pining. Plus sparing. Nothing better to get over a bit of a reading slump.
June 26, 2019
I don't know why I keep being surprised by how much I like Mia West's books...and this is no exception - and I didn't even read the precis! I've been sitting on it a while, as a freebie from Amazon a long time ago, and it fit the BINGO challenge category, so I went in almost completely blind.
I really liked this re-telling of the Arthurian legend; it was smart and innovative - and had me engaged the whole time. Right from the start I could tell it was going to be interesting as few of the family connections are familiar so I couldn't try to make the characters fit some preconceived mold made of all the other stories I've loved or loathed.
I loved the relationship development. These guys had to become friends - if tenuous ones - before they could become more, and the re-training & isolation scenario was the perfect set up for that. And I loved that Bed wanted someone to be soft with him, to treat him gently, not just assume that because he's a big tough warrior that he wants to be man-handled roughly & quickly.
And that ending! I sort of expected it given that this IS Arthur's tale, but it was still a punch in the gut. I want to read the next ones soonish, but I also know this series fits a very limited category for challenges and kind of want to hold out. Ah hell, I'll probably read #2 next month and then just do a re-read if the category ever pops up again...it's that good.
I really liked this re-telling of the Arthurian legend; it was smart and innovative - and had me engaged the whole time. Right from the start I could tell it was going to be interesting as few of the family connections are familiar so I couldn't try to make the characters fit some preconceived mold made of all the other stories I've loved or loathed.
I loved the relationship development. These guys had to become friends - if tenuous ones - before they could become more, and the re-training & isolation scenario was the perfect set up for that. And I loved that Bed wanted someone to be soft with him, to treat him gently, not just assume that because he's a big tough warrior that he wants to be man-handled roughly & quickly.
And that ending! I sort of expected it given that this IS Arthur's tale, but it was still a punch in the gut. I want to read the next ones soonish, but I also know this series fits a very limited category for challenges and kind of want to hold out. Ah hell, I'll probably read #2 next month and then just do a re-read if the category ever pops up again...it's that good.
November 24, 2021
Young and stupid sums these characters up very well.
I had trouble staying involved in the story while reading, and ended up very confused about the extended family members and who belonged to who. It felt like there were a lot of side characters, but maybe it was the same ones over and over again? This one might be on me and my attention span.
The sex scenes felt a little like a task list than organic decisions. Calling Arthur “cub” the whole way was a little….meh to me. Early on, sure. But mid sex scene? Out of place. I also thought part of the idea was that Arthur is growing into adultishness, but calling him cub counteracts that.
I think I was expecting a more magical Arthurian tale, but this is more like an old old historical?
I did like how they had a slow build friendship up at the hut, before anything further happened. The learning trust was very nicely done.
I did not like that Bedwyn kissed Arthurs father. What the fuck man.
Overall, I couldn’t connect with the characters or their emotions, and skimmed a lot of the book. I’d file it under “has potential” but I won’t read on in this series.
I had trouble staying involved in the story while reading, and ended up very confused about the extended family members and who belonged to who. It felt like there were a lot of side characters, but maybe it was the same ones over and over again? This one might be on me and my attention span.
The sex scenes felt a little like a task list than organic decisions. Calling Arthur “cub” the whole way was a little….meh to me. Early on, sure. But mid sex scene? Out of place. I also thought part of the idea was that Arthur is growing into adultishness, but calling him cub counteracts that.
I think I was expecting a more magical Arthurian tale, but this is more like an old old historical?
I did like how they had a slow build friendship up at the hut, before anything further happened. The learning trust was very nicely done.
I did not like that Bedwyn kissed Arthurs father. What the fuck man.
Overall, I couldn’t connect with the characters or their emotions, and skimmed a lot of the book. I’d file it under “has potential” but I won’t read on in this series.
September 4, 2021
2.5 stars
Ok, note to self: This is my new era of trying to be more honest about 2-star books!!!
I tend to round up anything that's 2.5 stars, has nothing objectively wrong with it and was obviously good enough that I got invested in at least one aspect enough to finish it (when we all know I will DNF in a heartbeat!!!), but it really makes those 3-star ratings worthless. I rate a lot of good books 3 stars because they didn't contend with my favorites for whatever reason (sometimes small, sometimes very personal), so I've decided I have to be more honest about 2 stars = It's ok if I want 3 stars = I liked it to actually mean anything...
Technically 2.5 stars is exactly average, and that's what this was. There isn't really anything wrong with it; it just didn't have the depth or momentum I need to really hook me. I tried the sample for Book 2 but didn't get very far.
Ok, note to self: This is my new era of trying to be more honest about 2-star books!!!
I tend to round up anything that's 2.5 stars, has nothing objectively wrong with it and was obviously good enough that I got invested in at least one aspect enough to finish it (when we all know I will DNF in a heartbeat!!!), but it really makes those 3-star ratings worthless. I rate a lot of good books 3 stars because they didn't contend with my favorites for whatever reason (sometimes small, sometimes very personal), so I've decided I have to be more honest about 2 stars = It's ok if I want 3 stars = I liked it to actually mean anything...
Technically 2.5 stars is exactly average, and that's what this was. There isn't really anything wrong with it; it just didn't have the depth or momentum I need to really hook me. I tried the sample for Book 2 but didn't get very far.
February 26, 2018
A stunning take on the Arthurian legend.
The groundwork was laid in the first series of the saga, Into the Fire, where we’re introduced to the generation before Arthur and I highly recommend starting there.
It’s erotic, brutal, poetic and quite gorgeous. However, this isn’t the Arthur that’s associated with knights and chivalry. There’s no magic or Ladies of the lake, but rather a folk tale of survival, honor and hopeful love.
5 stars and highly recommended!
The groundwork was laid in the first series of the saga, Into the Fire, where we’re introduced to the generation before Arthur and I highly recommend starting there.
It’s erotic, brutal, poetic and quite gorgeous. However, this isn’t the Arthur that’s associated with knights and chivalry. There’s no magic or Ladies of the lake, but rather a folk tale of survival, honor and hopeful love.
5 stars and highly recommended!
September 15, 2021
B-/3.5 stars
Read for the September prompt "Unusual" in the 2021 TBR Challenge
I really had to wrack my brains to recall if I already had a book that would fit this month’s prompt of “unusual”, and I was coming up with a big blank – until I found Mia West’s Marked by Fire, book one in her Sons of Britain series, and decided that an m/m romance set in sixth century Wales definitely fit the bill!
Ms. West has mined Arthurian legends and given them a new slant, so that while the characters are mostly familiar, they don’t always fit the roles we may be used to seeing them in - for instance, Arthur isn’t the son of Uther Pendragon (or Uthyr, the Pen y Ddraig) and Bedwyr, who is often related to the sidelines in the myths, has a central role – and given there are so many legends and so many variations on them, I had no problem with that. This is certainly not the Camelot of chivalric legend and the Lady of the Lake; no, this is the Dark Ages, mere decades since the Romans departed Britain, and life is tough and brutal. The author does an excellent job capturing the feel of the period – it’s dark and gritty and very real – and of setting up the network of relationships that will populate her version of the story.
Eighteen-year-old Arthur ap Matthias is restless, hotheaded and eager to prove himself in battle and impress not only his leader, Uthyr, but also Uthyr’s son Bedwyr, who Arthur has watched and longed for from afar for years. His chance comes when a small band of Saxons is spotted advancing into Cymru, but he fails to heed instructions and his recklessness has dire consequences – and in trying to defend him Bedwyr loses a hand. His survival is in doubt, but Matthias – who is the village healer – is able to save him. (The author doesn’t sugarcoat the treatment he undergoes, so there are some scenes that might not be for the squeamish!). Arthur is distraught and desperate to beg Bedwyr’s forgiveness, but Bedwyr point blank refuses to see him. Of course he’s furious with Arthur for costing him his sword hand, but he’s fearful, too – what use is a warrior who cannot fight? Bedwyr’s worst fears come true when his father banishes him to a small shepherd’s hut outside the village.
Uthyr summons Arthur and makes it clear he expects Arthur to pay a price for causing Bedwyr’s injury. Arthur at first thinks Uthyr is going to take his own right hand, and is shocked when Uthyr tells him to take his and Bedwyr’s armour to the hut and that he’s going to retrain Bedwyr to fight with his left hand – and that he must not, under any circumstances, tell Bedwyr that Uthyr sent him. Relieved and pleased to have a chance to make amends, but worried Bedwyr will refuse to see him, Arthur nonetheless sets out for the hut, determined to do whatever it takes.
Bedwyr has pretty much given up and succumbed to self-pity when Arthur turns up, and he wants nothing to do with him. But Arthur is stubborn and determined, and – begrudgingly – Bedwyr starts to acknowledge him and then to take an interest in what he’s come there to do. A tentative friendship forms, and as the days pass, Bedwyr begins to pull himself out of his funk and to become the man – and warrior – he has always been meant to be, while Arthur’s remorse and desire to do right by Bedwyr engenders a new maturity and self-control. And as Bedwyr comes to know Arthur as a man and not just as his best friend’s foolhardy younger brother, he takes his first step towards accepting the truth of his desires. (Although the fact he has a bit of a crush on Matthias at the beginning of the book made his growing interest in Arthur a bit… ick? I had to blank that out!)
Marked by Fire is a well-paced and enjoyable story with a strong setting and engaging, flawed characters who are both trying to learn from their mistakes and have undergone considerable growth by the end. The romance between Arthur and Bedwyr is a slow-burn, and I enjoyed their progress from awkwardness to dawning friendship, playfulness and trust as their attraction to one another strengthens. They have strong chemistry and the love scenes are nicely steamy, but I’d like there to have been a little more depth to their relationship overall. That said, their story continues in book two (Bound by Blood); this one ends on an HFN (with a final scene that is a bit of a cliffhanger) so there is clearly more to come and I’m intrigued enough to want to know what happens next, so I’ll be reading that at some point.
Read for the September prompt "Unusual" in the 2021 TBR Challenge
I really had to wrack my brains to recall if I already had a book that would fit this month’s prompt of “unusual”, and I was coming up with a big blank – until I found Mia West’s Marked by Fire, book one in her Sons of Britain series, and decided that an m/m romance set in sixth century Wales definitely fit the bill!
Ms. West has mined Arthurian legends and given them a new slant, so that while the characters are mostly familiar, they don’t always fit the roles we may be used to seeing them in - for instance, Arthur isn’t the son of Uther Pendragon (or Uthyr, the Pen y Ddraig) and Bedwyr, who is often related to the sidelines in the myths, has a central role – and given there are so many legends and so many variations on them, I had no problem with that. This is certainly not the Camelot of chivalric legend and the Lady of the Lake; no, this is the Dark Ages, mere decades since the Romans departed Britain, and life is tough and brutal. The author does an excellent job capturing the feel of the period – it’s dark and gritty and very real – and of setting up the network of relationships that will populate her version of the story.
Eighteen-year-old Arthur ap Matthias is restless, hotheaded and eager to prove himself in battle and impress not only his leader, Uthyr, but also Uthyr’s son Bedwyr, who Arthur has watched and longed for from afar for years. His chance comes when a small band of Saxons is spotted advancing into Cymru, but he fails to heed instructions and his recklessness has dire consequences – and in trying to defend him Bedwyr loses a hand. His survival is in doubt, but Matthias – who is the village healer – is able to save him. (The author doesn’t sugarcoat the treatment he undergoes, so there are some scenes that might not be for the squeamish!). Arthur is distraught and desperate to beg Bedwyr’s forgiveness, but Bedwyr point blank refuses to see him. Of course he’s furious with Arthur for costing him his sword hand, but he’s fearful, too – what use is a warrior who cannot fight? Bedwyr’s worst fears come true when his father banishes him to a small shepherd’s hut outside the village.
Uthyr summons Arthur and makes it clear he expects Arthur to pay a price for causing Bedwyr’s injury. Arthur at first thinks Uthyr is going to take his own right hand, and is shocked when Uthyr tells him to take his and Bedwyr’s armour to the hut and that he’s going to retrain Bedwyr to fight with his left hand – and that he must not, under any circumstances, tell Bedwyr that Uthyr sent him. Relieved and pleased to have a chance to make amends, but worried Bedwyr will refuse to see him, Arthur nonetheless sets out for the hut, determined to do whatever it takes.
Bedwyr has pretty much given up and succumbed to self-pity when Arthur turns up, and he wants nothing to do with him. But Arthur is stubborn and determined, and – begrudgingly – Bedwyr starts to acknowledge him and then to take an interest in what he’s come there to do. A tentative friendship forms, and as the days pass, Bedwyr begins to pull himself out of his funk and to become the man – and warrior – he has always been meant to be, while Arthur’s remorse and desire to do right by Bedwyr engenders a new maturity and self-control. And as Bedwyr comes to know Arthur as a man and not just as his best friend’s foolhardy younger brother, he takes his first step towards accepting the truth of his desires. (Although the fact he has a bit of a crush on Matthias at the beginning of the book made his growing interest in Arthur a bit… ick? I had to blank that out!)
Marked by Fire is a well-paced and enjoyable story with a strong setting and engaging, flawed characters who are both trying to learn from their mistakes and have undergone considerable growth by the end. The romance between Arthur and Bedwyr is a slow-burn, and I enjoyed their progress from awkwardness to dawning friendship, playfulness and trust as their attraction to one another strengthens. They have strong chemistry and the love scenes are nicely steamy, but I’d like there to have been a little more depth to their relationship overall. That said, their story continues in book two (Bound by Blood); this one ends on an HFN (with a final scene that is a bit of a cliffhanger) so there is clearly more to come and I’m intrigued enough to want to know what happens next, so I’ll be reading that at some point.
May 31, 2021
What can I say? I have a weakness for strong men with soft hearts. Brothers in arms. noble warriors.
This was pretty short and pretty smutty, but I also think there was a nice bit of development, despite how short it is. I think since watching Merlin on BBC that I'm developing a new passion for arthurian tales, but I have a lot to learn. I know this story is a bit of a stretch with the way it played out, but I can also tell the author did research before taking her liberties. I will say I'm a novice so I can't really determine who'd be happy with those liberties, considering I spent half the time wondering if Bedwyr was a real character and realizing he was Sir Bedivere, duhhh
But despite it being short and fast, I'm excited this is a series. I didn't know I needed this kind of thing.
This was pretty short and pretty smutty, but I also think there was a nice bit of development, despite how short it is. I think since watching Merlin on BBC that I'm developing a new passion for arthurian tales, but I have a lot to learn. I know this story is a bit of a stretch with the way it played out, but I can also tell the author did research before taking her liberties. I will say I'm a novice so I can't really determine who'd be happy with those liberties, considering I spent half the time wondering if Bedwyr was a real character and realizing he was Sir Bedivere, duhhh
But despite it being short and fast, I'm excited this is a series. I didn't know I needed this kind of thing.
February 18, 2021
I enjoyed this a good deal more than I expected to - it’s an intriguing start to a queer retelling of the Arthur legends, with an explosive premise and an angsty romance that ticked a lot of boxes for me. The writing is a little uneven. It’s elegant and meaty by turns, and then occasionally a little awkward (especially, unfortunately, during the sex scenes). But the world building intrigued me, and I very much appreciated the heritage of queerness that underpins the character’s experiences. Although they live in a heteronormative society, where homophobia is a factor in their self-perceptions, they also have older gay/queer role models they can look to.
CWs: violence and death during battle scenes; limb loss; parental rejection; implied homophobia
CWs: violence and death during battle scenes; limb loss; parental rejection; implied homophobia
October 12, 2016
Mia West is so good at giving us short stories that are literally PACKED with greatness!
This is not long, but every word is important. Right from the start we understand how important being a warrior and being with Bewyr are to Arthur. Soon after both are taken from him – seemingly – and his struggle to right his wrongs.
What happens next is a funny, sexy, touching story of both recovery and connection between the two. I loved watching Bedwyr heal and the fact that Arthur never backed down (even at the end!). I also loved the role the women played in this “world” – Arthur’s mother is the blacksmith!
Though I didn’t always understand the world building – was being in a gay relationship shunned? – what does Bewyr’s father really think of Arthur? What’s going to happen to these guys now? – I’m betting as the series progresses these questions will be answered.
It’s a little bit dark, but very hopeful. The smexy times are good, but not the central importance to the story.
Highly recommended to fans of the author, historical/fantasy, dark but sweet romances.
4.5 of 5 stars
This is not long, but every word is important. Right from the start we understand how important being a warrior and being with Bewyr are to Arthur. Soon after both are taken from him – seemingly – and his struggle to right his wrongs.
What happens next is a funny, sexy, touching story of both recovery and connection between the two. I loved watching Bedwyr heal and the fact that Arthur never backed down (even at the end!). I also loved the role the women played in this “world” – Arthur’s mother is the blacksmith!
Though I didn’t always understand the world building – was being in a gay relationship shunned? – what does Bewyr’s father really think of Arthur? What’s going to happen to these guys now? – I’m betting as the series progresses these questions will be answered.
It’s a little bit dark, but very hopeful. The smexy times are good, but not the central importance to the story.
Highly recommended to fans of the author, historical/fantasy, dark but sweet romances.
4.5 of 5 stars
April 29, 2020
New author to me. An historical series about Arthur [Emrys] and Bedwyr [Bedivere], with the author's take on the characters, set in Wales [Cymru] obviously 😉 in the 6th century. You will notice that I haven't put it on my Urban Fantasy/Magic bookshelf...that's cos there's NO magic. All the usual characters appear...Uthyr, Cai, and eventually other warriors whom we all know from the Knights of the Round Table...but not necessarily in the roles they had then. Yes, there was sex and it was obvious that Arthur had had a lengthy crush on Bedwyr, his older brother Cai's shield-mate BUT it was also obvious that Bedwyr had noticed Arthur too.
One of these stories Driven by Duty features Bedwyr's younger sister Gwen, and her relationship with Elain. Not normally a reader of anything F/F, but will read this one as it continues the overall Arc of Arthur and Bedwyr.
Good start to the series, 4 stars from me, and I have downloaded all of the other stories in the series, as well as Arthur's grandfathers [Marcus and Wolf] story Into the Fire, which is available as a complete series from Amazon.
One of these stories Driven by Duty features Bedwyr's younger sister Gwen, and her relationship with Elain. Not normally a reader of anything F/F, but will read this one as it continues the overall Arc of Arthur and Bedwyr.
Good start to the series, 4 stars from me, and I have downloaded all of the other stories in the series, as well as Arthur's grandfathers [Marcus and Wolf] story Into the Fire, which is available as a complete series from Amazon.
April 13, 2024
What a different way to tell Arthur story!!
I was pulled in by the time period but stayed for a wonderful, wholesome story. This had me cheering on and crying with the good times. It was an amazing read
I was pulled in by the time period but stayed for a wonderful, wholesome story. This had me cheering on and crying with the good times. It was an amazing read
Did Not Finish
October 18, 2021Dnf.
December 23, 2021
Marked by Fire (Sons of Britain, #1) by Mia West
Set in Cymry (Wales) in 515 AD the book narrates the tale of Arthur and Bedwyr. As the Saxons attack the Welsh tribe, Arthur goes on his first fight ever, but an error of his causes Bedwyr to lose his fighting hand to a Saxon.
Uthyr, Bedwyr's father and clan leader, vanishes Bedwyr and sends Arthur to help train Bedwyr to fight again with his left hand.
Unbeknown to Bedwyr, Arthur has sexual desires for Bedwyr which are fulfilled as Arthur nurses Bedwyr back to health and to a full recovery, in which they both excel as the Saxon's attack again.
The book is more of a novella, under 200 pages in my Kindle. It reads easily and fast - under two hours. Narrated from a very dismal third-person point of view, the book was boring - almost no plot - and with characters that I never cared for. The sex scenes are boring. I will not be reading any more books in the series and I don't recommend the book.
Set in Cymry (Wales) in 515 AD the book narrates the tale of Arthur and Bedwyr. As the Saxons attack the Welsh tribe, Arthur goes on his first fight ever, but an error of his causes Bedwyr to lose his fighting hand to a Saxon.
Uthyr, Bedwyr's father and clan leader, vanishes Bedwyr and sends Arthur to help train Bedwyr to fight again with his left hand.
Unbeknown to Bedwyr, Arthur has sexual desires for Bedwyr which are fulfilled as Arthur nurses Bedwyr back to health and to a full recovery, in which they both excel as the Saxon's attack again.
The book is more of a novella, under 200 pages in my Kindle. It reads easily and fast - under two hours. Narrated from a very dismal third-person point of view, the book was boring - almost no plot - and with characters that I never cared for. The sex scenes are boring. I will not be reading any more books in the series and I don't recommend the book.
problematic-and-or-ai
November 12, 2025🚩 AI cover
quote from the author's website:
bffr🫠🙃🤡
#genAIisnotethical supporthumancreatives #supportrealartists
ss taken on Nov 12, 2025:
quote from the author's website:
"I do, however, use AI tools to create my covers.
In 2024, I started using generative AI to create images for my book covers. I found myself needing to re-cover the Sons of Britain series, and since I give away my ebooks, I decided to use currently free AI tools for image generation. For all of my series, I used Microsoft Designer’s Image Creator to generate images, then Canva to add the title text. I don’t use artist names in my prompts, but general descriptive words and phrases (eg: brushstroke style, stern expression, feather texture)."
bffr🫠🙃🤡
#genAIisnotethical supporthumancreatives #supportrealartists
ss taken on Nov 12, 2025:
February 3, 2023
Set in 5th century England this is about a young warrior called Arthur who wants to prove himself. In an early battle his poor decision making leads to Bedwyr (the leader’s son) losing his lower arm. When Bedwyr is banished from the village (now he’s no use), Arthur is tasked with following him, as his punishment. He’s sworn to secrecy, not able to tell Bedwyr he’s been sent by his father. Arthur helps Bedwyr heal but will it be enough for Bedwyr to return to the village and fight like the leader he was born to be.
This book was sitting on my kindle shelf for ages, and I’d put off reading it as if just didn’t sound like something I’d read. But having picked it up I couldn’t put it down. Arthur always looked up to Bedwyr and his commitment to his healing shine through in the book. Bedwyr was overwhelmed with the expectations of his father, and these being removed makes his life, easier in one sense, albeit he has to learn to function (in the 5th century) without his sword hand. This instalment is really about the growth and recognition of a relationship between the two, and highlighting the possibilities for Arthur in the village in the future.
Important point - it ends on a cliff hanger …
This book was sitting on my kindle shelf for ages, and I’d put off reading it as if just didn’t sound like something I’d read. But having picked it up I couldn’t put it down. Arthur always looked up to Bedwyr and his commitment to his healing shine through in the book. Bedwyr was overwhelmed with the expectations of his father, and these being removed makes his life, easier in one sense, albeit he has to learn to function (in the 5th century) without his sword hand. This instalment is really about the growth and recognition of a relationship between the two, and highlighting the possibilities for Arthur in the village in the future.
Important point - it ends on a cliff hanger …
February 22, 2021
My friend Flo put this on my radar as an Arthurian retelling. I believe the series will be Arthurian in nature but this particular book is more of a prequel to the legend in question. That’s not a critique! This story gives great angst. Watching Arthur and Bedwyr’s relationship was quite compelling, starting with Arthur’s long-standing crush on the other one, the agony when Bedwyr loses his arm during battle in the process of defending Arthur (who wasn’t doing as told!), and then Arthur being ordered to teach Bed to fight with his other hand or else Arthur would be banished. Bed, understandably, wants nothing to do with the ginger who cost him his arm but Arthur’s persistence won him over. And it won me over too, even if I did want to shake Arthur at times. He just doesn’t think! There’s some interesting world-building around queer relationships, including Arthur’s grandfathers who were accepted by the community, along with another older MM couple. Despite this, the community might not be as accepting of our couple here and I’m interested to see how this will all be handled in book two, along with another of Arthur’s rash decisions.
Character notes: Arthur is a white gay 18 year old ginger soldier. Bedwyr is a 22 year old white gay soldier. This is set in 515 CE Cymre/Wales.
CW: war/battle scenes, limb loss , ableism, internalized ableism, paternal rejection, Bedwyr’s mother died giving birth to his sister, implied homophobia, reference to past homophobic slurs (secondary characters)
Character notes: Arthur is a white gay 18 year old ginger soldier. Bedwyr is a 22 year old white gay soldier. This is set in 515 CE Cymre/Wales.
CW: war/battle scenes, limb loss , ableism, internalized ableism, paternal rejection, Bedwyr’s mother died giving birth to his sister, implied homophobia, reference to past homophobic slurs (secondary characters)
August 28, 2021
I’ll admit it… I’m a little disappointed, mainly in myself. I took the bite and snagged this because it was free on kindle, but I didn’t pay close enough attention to the series like I normally do. These days I really don’t enjoy continuing, same couple, storylines… and if I do attempt to read one, I always look at blurbs and reviews for the next few books to make sure it’s dynamic I can handle. I unfortunately this one ended on HFN and the book seems rather drama and anxiety filled… and damn it I want all my drama and love in one book, and any book after just for bond and character building…
Anyways that’s just my opinion, I don’t know why relationship drama leaves such a bad taste in my mouth, especially after one book, but it just does. (I let none of this affect my review)
The book itself was wonderful in many ways. We have an young man who’s spent 8 years pining for a man he could never have. A world crushing (at least for Bed it was) tragedy that brings them together. And a friendship and bond that forms and brings the two, together in ways neither of them had hoped possible.
Anyways that’s just my opinion, I don’t know why relationship drama leaves such a bad taste in my mouth, especially after one book, but it just does. (I let none of this affect my review)
The book itself was wonderful in many ways. We have an young man who’s spent 8 years pining for a man he could never have. A world crushing (at least for Bed it was) tragedy that brings them together. And a friendship and bond that forms and brings the two, together in ways neither of them had hoped possible.
April 7, 2021
I loved this book. This is exactly why I support self-pub/indie-pub authors: you find gems like this.
So this is a m/m romance. True to it's nature, I would say the love story is the main plot of the book. And boy, is it a story. Heartfelt and honest. The characters are so real, and not just the main characters but everyone in the story. I felt like I could reach out and touch them. Like these were real lives I was watching unfold. Really amazing writing.
The setting and premise are great too. I really only have a basic understanding of the Arthurian legends so I couldn't tell you if this book holds true, but I loved it. Historical fiction is one of my favorites. This did not disappoint.
I highly recommend this book. Please pick it up for yourself and it give it a try. It's wonderful.
So this is a m/m romance. True to it's nature, I would say the love story is the main plot of the book. And boy, is it a story. Heartfelt and honest. The characters are so real, and not just the main characters but everyone in the story. I felt like I could reach out and touch them. Like these were real lives I was watching unfold. Really amazing writing.
The setting and premise are great too. I really only have a basic understanding of the Arthurian legends so I couldn't tell you if this book holds true, but I loved it. Historical fiction is one of my favorites. This did not disappoint.
I highly recommend this book. Please pick it up for yourself and it give it a try. It's wonderful.
November 11, 2021
I liked reading about Bed and Arthur, their connection was strong and you could feel the pull between them as Bed recovered.
I love a supporting family, having their backs in small ways. And I loved the side characters as much as our main couple.
Though I would like to continue and see how things would turn out for them, I'm not invested enough to read about them as side characters so I will imagine their HEA with this book.
I love a supporting family, having their backs in small ways. And I loved the side characters as much as our main couple.
Though I would like to continue and see how things would turn out for them, I'm not invested enough to read about them as side characters so I will imagine their HEA with this book.
March 25, 2017
I really liked this reimagining of the Arthurian legend. Loved the authenticity of the names of the characters and the depicted world. What I do not love is the price for the books. Would love to finish this trilogy but don't want to pay $2.99 for around 100 pages. Would also love to read the grandfathers stories as well...but again, too high a price for the potential reading pleasure.
October 7, 2017
4.5 Stars, great beginning to the series. I loved Arthur and Bedwyr as well as Bedwyr's sister Gwen. I had a good feel for the setting and the characters. Definitely looking forward to the rest of the series.
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