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The Griffin Legends #1
Godfrey's Crusade
A crusade is called to aid the Kingdom of Azgald in the distant Nordslands, and the young idealistic knight, Godfrey, does not hesitate to volunteer. Yet Godfrey soon learns that the greatest threat to the expedition’s success is not the savage clans under High Warlord Alvir and the Great Witch of the North, Nera, or the orcs and cyclopes that fight beside the clans but the rivalries between the crusaders themselves. Can Godfrey interpret the vision granted to him by the gods and unite the crusaders with his holy blade? Will his love, Madeline, be able to keep her magical powers hidden from suspicious priests and opportunistic lords? Will they be able to stop Nera and Alvir from unleashing an ancient evil upon Azgald or will Godfrey and his friends all meet a bitter end in the frigid Nordslands?
- GenresFantasyEpic Fantasy
414 pages, Paperback
Published July 28, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 8, 2023
4.5/5 Review to come!
April 13, 2026
Re-READ
This is my second read this book!
these characters are memorable ……because I’m only at the third chapter in visions of upcoming scenes are coming to my mind from two years ago when I first read this!
And that happens in a reread you know you got a good book in your hands
This is my second read this book!
these characters are memorable ……because I’m only at the third chapter in visions of upcoming scenes are coming to my mind from two years ago when I first read this!
And that happens in a reread you know you got a good book in your hands
June 21, 2024
I have been eyeing Godfrey’s Crusade for what feels like years now and I wish I had read it sooner! That said, I’m almost glad I didn’t because I got the chance to listen to Dylan Wheeler’s absolutely phenomenal narration and as they say, good things come to those who wait?
I have been looking for clean, fast paced fantasy, and Mark Howard delivered. The book covers a lot of ground from Godfrey as a child (briefly) to his time as a squire, and then as a knight on crusade. Despite its fast pace we get a good idea of setting and atmosphere in each scene.
The book contains everything from vampires to cyclopes, which created a bit of a mixed bag lore wise but kept the pace moving and never boring. I felt like I was back in the Skyrim game with some of the scenes and battles playing out like quests. The conflict at heart is deep though and I’m curious to see what happens in the next book! Will Godfrey regain his birthright? Who will aid him?
I also like Godfrey’s religious motivation. He is an honorable person at heart and creates a lot of conflict by doing what’s right instead of what’s popular. His acolyte friend is hilarious and I hope he will feature in future books too. There isn’t a ton of time spent on characters but the types are all there, from knights to sorceresses to warrior priests, and I do enjoy their dialogue and personalities.
Godfrey and co remind me a lot of Jeff Wheeler’s characters except Howard is not preachy😂 Fans of one may enjoy the other though if they like fast paced, very readable fantasy that tends to err on the cleaner side. (Meaning language, lack of spice, character motivations). My only qualm overall was that even when characters got into danger it seemed to resolve pretty quickly, like when Godfrey went from lost for dead to getting a Griffin at the end of one chapter to the next. although the story itself was enough to keep me reading.
Then I should talk about the audiobook! Dylan Wheeler did a very wide range of voices and accents but I could always clearly understand him. He never fell flat and I could always tell which character was speaking. I’m 100% going to be searching for more books that he narrates!
Thanks again so much to Mark Howard for the Spotify code to listen to Godfrey’s Crusade!
I have been looking for clean, fast paced fantasy, and Mark Howard delivered. The book covers a lot of ground from Godfrey as a child (briefly) to his time as a squire, and then as a knight on crusade. Despite its fast pace we get a good idea of setting and atmosphere in each scene.
The book contains everything from vampires to cyclopes, which created a bit of a mixed bag lore wise but kept the pace moving and never boring. I felt like I was back in the Skyrim game with some of the scenes and battles playing out like quests. The conflict at heart is deep though and I’m curious to see what happens in the next book! Will Godfrey regain his birthright? Who will aid him?
I also like Godfrey’s religious motivation. He is an honorable person at heart and creates a lot of conflict by doing what’s right instead of what’s popular. His acolyte friend is hilarious and I hope he will feature in future books too. There isn’t a ton of time spent on characters but the types are all there, from knights to sorceresses to warrior priests, and I do enjoy their dialogue and personalities.
Godfrey and co remind me a lot of Jeff Wheeler’s characters except Howard is not preachy😂 Fans of one may enjoy the other though if they like fast paced, very readable fantasy that tends to err on the cleaner side. (Meaning language, lack of spice, character motivations). My only qualm overall was that even when characters got into danger it seemed to resolve pretty quickly, like when Godfrey went from lost for dead to getting a Griffin at the end of one chapter to the next. although the story itself was enough to keep me reading.
Then I should talk about the audiobook! Dylan Wheeler did a very wide range of voices and accents but I could always clearly understand him. He never fell flat and I could always tell which character was speaking. I’m 100% going to be searching for more books that he narrates!
Thanks again so much to Mark Howard for the Spotify code to listen to Godfrey’s Crusade!
July 21, 2022
Lot of fun!
In the cold Norslands the call to aid the Kingdom is given. A young crusading knight soon finds rivalries within his own. Without a united front it will be a monumental task to defeat the enemy. Shades of Mallory. Action packed YA fun. Just what I needed.
In the cold Norslands the call to aid the Kingdom is given. A young crusading knight soon finds rivalries within his own. Without a united front it will be a monumental task to defeat the enemy. Shades of Mallory. Action packed YA fun. Just what I needed.
December 29, 2022
Full review text: https://jamreads.com/reviews/godfreys...
Godfrey's Crusade is the first book and the introduction to the Griffin Legends series, written by Mark Howard, a low fantasy proposal with epic touches, a mix between an inspiration on Crusader Europe and classic fantasy elements.
In this book, we are going to be following the adventures of Godfrey, a young and idealist noble, son of the Bastogne's Duke; and we will get to also observe his first adventure before getting ordered a knight. And shortly, while Godfrey's still high with his success, a crusade gets declared. The Nordslands have been invaded by savage clans, with High Warlord Alvir and The Great Witch of the North Nera leading them; and it's time to unite all the different armies and orders under the banner of faith in order to liberate them.
Godfrey impulsively joins the crusade, seeing it as the right way to behave, taking the crusader's vows. With relative success in the recruitment, several armies join faith's cause, and travel to the North. Soon, he will start realizing that the Northmen are not the only danger around him, as in the North armies there are also creatures like orcs enrolled; and let's say that each one of the leaders has different interests, that may not be aligned with the crusade's noble intentions.
Characters are quite interesting in this novel, despite the epic scope of it. While the main character, Godfrey, starts being a really naive young man, he fastly realizes that not everybody has the same noble intentions regarding the crusade. As somebody who mainly has grown up listening to knight's chansons, he lacks real-world knowledge, and at the start, he thinks all the people share his noble intentions. He also gets to experiment his first love, and in general, he conducts his life following the knight's values. Despite starting to get aware that not everybody is as noble as him, Godfrey doesn't renounce living by these values and honouring the vows he took, even when the tragedy hits him.
The rest of characters get less spotlight, but it is worth talking a little about Madeline, a strong young woman, the romantic interest of Godfrey, but also a remarkable character, as she's a sorceress in a world where magic gets persecuted. She has grown to hide her powers, but she will need to use them in these special situations. Antagonists also deserve a mention, especially those that are part of the Crusade army; with Tancred being kinda the most important, as he's the father of Madeline, and a contradicting character, as it is divided between being a parent, and trying the best for his possessions.
Worldbuilding in this book is also one of its strongest aspects, drawing many aspects of Medieval France and feudalism, with an identical structure of a king over all the nobles, vassals of the king. Religion is a power on its own, having the power to call to a Crusade, when they feel land is in threat; and as we can see in Godfrey, people tend to really have religious convictions. We get to see a big part of this world, especially due to the travels done in the Crusade. To these elements that are taken from real history, fantasy ones get added, such as orcs and elves, without twisting them much, being close to the classic tropes.
The pace is good, despite I feel it could have started faster, as the introduction to the world and Godfrey takes around 25% of the whole novel (but it includes some action scenes, like the fight with the vampire, so even in this part, we have some spice). It reaches its top once the battles start happening, making great use of the description to make these action scenes work perfectly, a sort of ordered chaos.
Godfrey's Crusade is a strong debut, and perfect for those that prefer a low fantasy novel, which sometimes can feel like historical fiction, but with most of the elements of the classic fantasy. I personally enjoyed reading it, it felt really short, and honestly, can't wait to see more adventures of our young crusader.
Godfrey's Crusade is the first book and the introduction to the Griffin Legends series, written by Mark Howard, a low fantasy proposal with epic touches, a mix between an inspiration on Crusader Europe and classic fantasy elements.
In this book, we are going to be following the adventures of Godfrey, a young and idealist noble, son of the Bastogne's Duke; and we will get to also observe his first adventure before getting ordered a knight. And shortly, while Godfrey's still high with his success, a crusade gets declared. The Nordslands have been invaded by savage clans, with High Warlord Alvir and The Great Witch of the North Nera leading them; and it's time to unite all the different armies and orders under the banner of faith in order to liberate them.
Godfrey impulsively joins the crusade, seeing it as the right way to behave, taking the crusader's vows. With relative success in the recruitment, several armies join faith's cause, and travel to the North. Soon, he will start realizing that the Northmen are not the only danger around him, as in the North armies there are also creatures like orcs enrolled; and let's say that each one of the leaders has different interests, that may not be aligned with the crusade's noble intentions.
Characters are quite interesting in this novel, despite the epic scope of it. While the main character, Godfrey, starts being a really naive young man, he fastly realizes that not everybody has the same noble intentions regarding the crusade. As somebody who mainly has grown up listening to knight's chansons, he lacks real-world knowledge, and at the start, he thinks all the people share his noble intentions. He also gets to experiment his first love, and in general, he conducts his life following the knight's values. Despite starting to get aware that not everybody is as noble as him, Godfrey doesn't renounce living by these values and honouring the vows he took, even when the tragedy hits him.
The rest of characters get less spotlight, but it is worth talking a little about Madeline, a strong young woman, the romantic interest of Godfrey, but also a remarkable character, as she's a sorceress in a world where magic gets persecuted. She has grown to hide her powers, but she will need to use them in these special situations. Antagonists also deserve a mention, especially those that are part of the Crusade army; with Tancred being kinda the most important, as he's the father of Madeline, and a contradicting character, as it is divided between being a parent, and trying the best for his possessions.
Worldbuilding in this book is also one of its strongest aspects, drawing many aspects of Medieval France and feudalism, with an identical structure of a king over all the nobles, vassals of the king. Religion is a power on its own, having the power to call to a Crusade, when they feel land is in threat; and as we can see in Godfrey, people tend to really have religious convictions. We get to see a big part of this world, especially due to the travels done in the Crusade. To these elements that are taken from real history, fantasy ones get added, such as orcs and elves, without twisting them much, being close to the classic tropes.
The pace is good, despite I feel it could have started faster, as the introduction to the world and Godfrey takes around 25% of the whole novel (but it includes some action scenes, like the fight with the vampire, so even in this part, we have some spice). It reaches its top once the battles start happening, making great use of the description to make these action scenes work perfectly, a sort of ordered chaos.
Godfrey's Crusade is a strong debut, and perfect for those that prefer a low fantasy novel, which sometimes can feel like historical fiction, but with most of the elements of the classic fantasy. I personally enjoyed reading it, it felt really short, and honestly, can't wait to see more adventures of our young crusader.
October 31, 2023
And Done! Classical fantasy adventure with Knights, witches, tribes, Gods, and war. I’ll have a review up in a few days but this was a fun read.
October 28, 2025
Far more medieval-fantasy than The Lord of the Rings (despite the author’s misleading comparisons), Mark Howard’s "Godfrey’s Crusade" blends familiar medieval tropes with just enough fantastical flair to keep things exciting; and while the world around him often outshines its hero, Godfrey’s journey ultimately builds to a satisfying crescendo.
October 3, 2022
First off all I’m not a good reviewer. Second my first language is German. I’ll try😂
I love fantasy and medieval stories. Usually I like fantasy a bit darker. For some reason I pictured Godfrey as a blond young Siegfried. Probably didn’t help. It was an easy read and I enjoyed the story. I really hope that the second book has a bit more tension to it. All in all it’s an easy read and I’m looking forward to the second one! It’s a solid debut and I’m excited to be part of the Author’s journey!!!
Thank you again for the free copy
I love fantasy and medieval stories. Usually I like fantasy a bit darker. For some reason I pictured Godfrey as a blond young Siegfried. Probably didn’t help. It was an easy read and I enjoyed the story. I really hope that the second book has a bit more tension to it. All in all it’s an easy read and I’m looking forward to the second one! It’s a solid debut and I’m excited to be part of the Author’s journey!!!
Thank you again for the free copy
October 19, 2025
DNF 67%. Quietly dull.
I don't know why the author chose a classic fantasy setting. No plot point would have been different if it had happened on vanilla Earth. Added to this was a bland protagonist with barely any agency. I stopped reading when my last hope of something emotionally-noteworthy happening died.
I don't know why the author chose a classic fantasy setting. No plot point would have been different if it had happened on vanilla Earth. Added to this was a bland protagonist with barely any agency. I stopped reading when my last hope of something emotionally-noteworthy happening died.
March 27, 2024
High fantasy is always good. Godfrey is ready to take part in the crusade. But has he been able to fulfill the calling of gods?
His visions helps in the holy war. But has it been right?
He learns that great threat by savage clans and a witch. Orcs and cyclops fight beside the clans but they are rivals.
Now by his vision did he make them alleys to fight together.
His lover Madeline has magical power. But there are priests behind her they are suspicious. How she able to survive?
This fantasy story blends fiction with some real history and it's a treat to read.
His visions helps in the holy war. But has it been right?
He learns that great threat by savage clans and a witch. Orcs and cyclops fight beside the clans but they are rivals.
Now by his vision did he make them alleys to fight together.
His lover Madeline has magical power. But there are priests behind her they are suspicious. How she able to survive?
This fantasy story blends fiction with some real history and it's a treat to read.
July 20, 2023
Okay, as a story. It has some good ideas and characters.
The novel as a whole would benefit with further editing and a rewrite to strengthen the characters and plot.
The novel as a whole would benefit with further editing and a rewrite to strengthen the characters and plot.
April 12, 2026
Reviewed an ARC from Netgalley
The basic plot is pretty good, but the prose leaves room for improvement. Especially in the beginning of the book, I noticed several sentences that seemed overloaded, in one case created a mismatch between a verb (drawing) and then nouns (maces). Additionally, conjunctions are overused. Not only is "but" specifically overused, but complex sentences are overused, and sometimes misused (but is used even in cases where there is no contradiction). Additionally, past perfect is overused, especially as part of digressions. An example of both these tendencies combined is "The path was well used, but its paving stones had been broken up through centuries of neglect." Most of the sentences aren't this nonsensical though.
Like most modern writing, it struggles to convey emotion. At times the narrative is too internal and neglects physical description in favour of internal thoughts. This is especially a problem when important things are happening. such as a battle. The opening scene is a battle, but the parts of it are summarized, as opposed to focusing on specific details that give the right impression. The first scene also doesn't make sense, as the commander of the rear guard views it as his duty to NOT warn the main army of the presence of the enemy. When describing the physical world, mistakes are made, such as describing the inside of a castle, without any indication of a light source and describing a entrance way as an alcove. In general, there is a lack of subtext which makes this read like a children's book.
The plot is about a young knight, Godfrey, who feels called to crusade against the forces of darkness, in a world populated by orcs and other monsters. Religion plays an important role. Godfrey serves the celestial gods, whereas the main villains serve the dark gods. There is a clear difference between the gods, as the dark gods are indifferent to morality and offer power in exchange for human sacrifice. However, the role of antagonist often falls to the other crusaders, who often wish to enrich themselves as much as to defeat the common foe. The scenario of a idealistic young knight joining a crusade, but having to deal with unreliable allies is a great set up. However, it fails to live up to its potential, due to the lack of subtext. Supposed allies make not pretense of civility and show open hostility to people they just met. Also, the protagonist only really resolves the problem through military might.
The most interesting scenes are those written about the evil warlord and his wife. They are classic mustache twirling villains, but we learn that mainly through their actions and not through exposition or dialogue. The depiction of religion is also, well done. Godfrey sincerely wants to follow the will of his gods, but still struggles to know what that is. He also doesn't forget about them when it is plot irrelevant.
The basic plot is pretty good, but the prose leaves room for improvement. Especially in the beginning of the book, I noticed several sentences that seemed overloaded, in one case created a mismatch between a verb (drawing) and then nouns (maces). Additionally, conjunctions are overused. Not only is "but" specifically overused, but complex sentences are overused, and sometimes misused (but is used even in cases where there is no contradiction). Additionally, past perfect is overused, especially as part of digressions. An example of both these tendencies combined is "The path was well used, but its paving stones had been broken up through centuries of neglect." Most of the sentences aren't this nonsensical though.
Like most modern writing, it struggles to convey emotion. At times the narrative is too internal and neglects physical description in favour of internal thoughts. This is especially a problem when important things are happening. such as a battle. The opening scene is a battle, but the parts of it are summarized, as opposed to focusing on specific details that give the right impression. The first scene also doesn't make sense, as the commander of the rear guard views it as his duty to NOT warn the main army of the presence of the enemy. When describing the physical world, mistakes are made, such as describing the inside of a castle, without any indication of a light source and describing a entrance way as an alcove. In general, there is a lack of subtext which makes this read like a children's book.
The plot is about a young knight, Godfrey, who feels called to crusade against the forces of darkness, in a world populated by orcs and other monsters. Religion plays an important role. Godfrey serves the celestial gods, whereas the main villains serve the dark gods. There is a clear difference between the gods, as the dark gods are indifferent to morality and offer power in exchange for human sacrifice. However, the role of antagonist often falls to the other crusaders, who often wish to enrich themselves as much as to defeat the common foe. The scenario of a idealistic young knight joining a crusade, but having to deal with unreliable allies is a great set up. However, it fails to live up to its potential, due to the lack of subtext. Supposed allies make not pretense of civility and show open hostility to people they just met. Also, the protagonist only really resolves the problem through military might.
The most interesting scenes are those written about the evil warlord and his wife. They are classic mustache twirling villains, but we learn that mainly through their actions and not through exposition or dialogue. The depiction of religion is also, well done. Godfrey sincerely wants to follow the will of his gods, but still struggles to know what that is. He also doesn't forget about them when it is plot irrelevant.
September 25, 2023
Somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars– a strong start to a new fantasy series, but also a solid debut signaling more good things to come from Mark Howard as an author.
(Thanks to both the author, and to Booktasters for providing me with a free copy of this book).
Godfrey’s Crusade does feel a little bit formulaic to me. The novel follows a lot of the tropes and cliché’s prominent in many works of fantasy– though that isn’t necessarily a bad thing if the formula is proven to be successful. Godfrey, the young, unproven knight, must overcome great challenges and adversity in his journey to establish himself as a respected knight. He must navigate the internal politics and clash of egos which naturally occurs when knights from many different kingdoms and duchies go on crusade in search of fame and riches. Meanwhile, a powerful enemy force with a dangerous ace up their sleeve seeks to threaten the kingdom of Azgald in the mysterious frontier of the Nordslands. Throw in a romantic subplot on the side and you’ve got yourself the formula that many fantasy novels already adhere to.
The identity of Godfrey’s Crusade is heavily interwoven with the idea of faith as a key driving force, and a chief reason for Godfrey’s success on the Hero’s Journey is his belief in his chosen deity, Loxias. This, to me, felt like the strongest aspect of the story as a whole. For a main character to remain entirely virtuous, and *good* throughout their journey is a difficult thing to execute in a way that doesn’t make the character feel one-note, but I feel that Godfrey’s Crusade nails that aspect down rather well, Godfrey feels relatable, rather than unbelievable, and his talent for empathy is greatly realized on the page.
Godfrey as a character goes through a lot of development. From an anxious, soon-to-be-knighted page to a leader of both his own army and a respected figure in the crusade as a whole, the novel does a great job of molding the character of Godfrey through the conflict he faces and the experience he gains throughout his journey.
The novel does fall a bit flat in it’s pacing though, in my opinion. Conflict is very often resolved rather quickly, and though some chapters end with cliffhangers, the result is very often instantly revealed on the next page, which, when I was reading it, took some of the stakes out of the story. I would’ve personally preferred to have been left guessing on many events a bit more– especially since the use of multiple perspectives was introduced early in the novel. It should be mentioned, however, that Godfrey’s Crusade does try to cover a lot of ground very quickly, and that could be why some key moments aren’t necessarily given the time and care that they might otherwise be entitled to.
All in all, I definitely recommend this book– and series as a whole– for anyone interested in the more militaristic side of fantasy.
(Thanks to both the author, and to Booktasters for providing me with a free copy of this book).
Godfrey’s Crusade does feel a little bit formulaic to me. The novel follows a lot of the tropes and cliché’s prominent in many works of fantasy– though that isn’t necessarily a bad thing if the formula is proven to be successful. Godfrey, the young, unproven knight, must overcome great challenges and adversity in his journey to establish himself as a respected knight. He must navigate the internal politics and clash of egos which naturally occurs when knights from many different kingdoms and duchies go on crusade in search of fame and riches. Meanwhile, a powerful enemy force with a dangerous ace up their sleeve seeks to threaten the kingdom of Azgald in the mysterious frontier of the Nordslands. Throw in a romantic subplot on the side and you’ve got yourself the formula that many fantasy novels already adhere to.
The identity of Godfrey’s Crusade is heavily interwoven with the idea of faith as a key driving force, and a chief reason for Godfrey’s success on the Hero’s Journey is his belief in his chosen deity, Loxias. This, to me, felt like the strongest aspect of the story as a whole. For a main character to remain entirely virtuous, and *good* throughout their journey is a difficult thing to execute in a way that doesn’t make the character feel one-note, but I feel that Godfrey’s Crusade nails that aspect down rather well, Godfrey feels relatable, rather than unbelievable, and his talent for empathy is greatly realized on the page.
Godfrey as a character goes through a lot of development. From an anxious, soon-to-be-knighted page to a leader of both his own army and a respected figure in the crusade as a whole, the novel does a great job of molding the character of Godfrey through the conflict he faces and the experience he gains throughout his journey.
The novel does fall a bit flat in it’s pacing though, in my opinion. Conflict is very often resolved rather quickly, and though some chapters end with cliffhangers, the result is very often instantly revealed on the next page, which, when I was reading it, took some of the stakes out of the story. I would’ve personally preferred to have been left guessing on many events a bit more– especially since the use of multiple perspectives was introduced early in the novel. It should be mentioned, however, that Godfrey’s Crusade does try to cover a lot of ground very quickly, and that could be why some key moments aren’t necessarily given the time and care that they might otherwise be entitled to.
All in all, I definitely recommend this book– and series as a whole– for anyone interested in the more militaristic side of fantasy.
May 24, 2025
Mark Howard's Godfrey's Crusade is everything that my fantasy-loving heart could ever crave. There are knights in shining armor, spectacular battles, a noble hero who is clueless of his true opponents, and magic that is mesmerizing and terrifying. Fantasy, adventure, mystery, and that delicious Arthurian story vibe are all perfectly combined in this novel.
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Godfrey is precisely the type of protagonist I love. He is not some untouchable, flawless hero, despite his youth, idealistic prospects, and "I must follow my destiny" mentality. No, he struggles, he has doubts, and he is confronted with the brutal truth that politics and war are just as frightening as magic and monsters. He enters this crusade believing he is fighting for justice, but as he develops, he comes to understand that the battlefield is rife with secrets, treachery, and individuals who hold radically divergent views on what is "right." Our next main character is Madeline, an intriguing love interest, a strong lady who has to hide her strength, and a sorceress in a society that fears magic. There's tension between her and Godfrey, and she's out here holding her own while carrying secrets that might literally change everything.
.
This novel does something I adore: it features knights, chivalry, and sword fighting while remaining mysterious and outrageous. The combination of high fantasy and this serious, even frightening mystery running through it is like a chef's kiss. It has the feel of an old legend coming to life, like something from Arthurian myths, but with orcs, cyclopes, and vampires tossed in for good measure. I just couldn't get enough of the battles, the strategy and the political intrigues.
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The writing is fast paced and completely immersing. The universe feels real, as if I could walk into it and find myself stuck between a crusade and an old prophecy. The action scenes are so spectacular that I felt like I was in the thick of the battle, hearing the clang of swords and the war cries of knights. And the way it balanced all of that with Godfrey's extremely personal path of maturation was pristine.
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I NEED the next book immediately. This is the kind of fantasy that devours you and holds on to you. You should read Godfrey's Crusade if you appreciate fantasy that truly feels epic, adventure, knights, magic, strategy, and secret plans that come to light during a holy war, this was a masterpiece!
.
Godfrey is precisely the type of protagonist I love. He is not some untouchable, flawless hero, despite his youth, idealistic prospects, and "I must follow my destiny" mentality. No, he struggles, he has doubts, and he is confronted with the brutal truth that politics and war are just as frightening as magic and monsters. He enters this crusade believing he is fighting for justice, but as he develops, he comes to understand that the battlefield is rife with secrets, treachery, and individuals who hold radically divergent views on what is "right." Our next main character is Madeline, an intriguing love interest, a strong lady who has to hide her strength, and a sorceress in a society that fears magic. There's tension between her and Godfrey, and she's out here holding her own while carrying secrets that might literally change everything.
.
This novel does something I adore: it features knights, chivalry, and sword fighting while remaining mysterious and outrageous. The combination of high fantasy and this serious, even frightening mystery running through it is like a chef's kiss. It has the feel of an old legend coming to life, like something from Arthurian myths, but with orcs, cyclopes, and vampires tossed in for good measure. I just couldn't get enough of the battles, the strategy and the political intrigues.
.
The writing is fast paced and completely immersing. The universe feels real, as if I could walk into it and find myself stuck between a crusade and an old prophecy. The action scenes are so spectacular that I felt like I was in the thick of the battle, hearing the clang of swords and the war cries of knights. And the way it balanced all of that with Godfrey's extremely personal path of maturation was pristine.
.
I NEED the next book immediately. This is the kind of fantasy that devours you and holds on to you. You should read Godfrey's Crusade if you appreciate fantasy that truly feels epic, adventure, knights, magic, strategy, and secret plans that come to light during a holy war, this was a masterpiece!
April 15, 2025
Godfrey's Crusade is a military fantasy that storms with the noise of a sovereign calling, a call to battle to be sure, but also to make decisions shaped by fate that have far implications that go beyond the willpower of any one knight! Determined to defend the Kingdom of Azgald, Godfrey, a youthful and hopeful chivalric knight, braves the raging storm of the Nordslands. The expedition's struggles—not only with cyclopes, orcs, and barbaric clans, but also with the ruthless rivalries that develop among the crusaders themselves—are what give it its strength even though it appears destined for glory. The nuanced conflict between the weight of individual ambition and the obligation to a greater purpose is captured in Howard's literary technique!
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The stakes change from battle to something further arcane and visceral as the crusaders advance into the hostile northern territories. High Warlord Alvir and Nera, the Great Witch of the North, signify impending, apocalyptic dangers. However, the real struggle might not be between clash of steel, it might be between political disagreements that could destroy the crusade before the final nail is delivered. Godfrey's journey involves honor and a blade, and figuring out the perplexing vision that the gods have given him. His romance with Madeline, which reflects the conflict between duty and love, gives the plot an intriguing layer that keeps you on the edge of your seat!
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Each chapter of Godfrey's Crusade is fascinating, leading us farther into its universe as you observe the fragile stability of a sacred quest that verges on catastrophe, both the harshness of the characters and the icy chill of the Nordslands are captured in the story's ruthless yet majestic structure, the characters are vessels of fate, each powered by forces bigger than themselves but nevertheless battling against their own weaknesses. Godfrey is an unstoppable hero because of his firm sacrifice, but the harsh winds of fate and the opposing alliances also influence his destiny!
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The great design of the novel, its detailed magic, betrayal, and fate lives and gasps with a powerful sense of utmost urgency, The crusader competition, the threat of ancient evils, and Godfrey's spiritual, often esoteric struggles are some mind-blowing plot points that had me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. Godfrey's Crusade's last details are astonishing and will numb your hands and feet, every chapter of Howard's work reveals further dimensions of amazing detail and unexpected mystery making this book a ten stars read!
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The stakes change from battle to something further arcane and visceral as the crusaders advance into the hostile northern territories. High Warlord Alvir and Nera, the Great Witch of the North, signify impending, apocalyptic dangers. However, the real struggle might not be between clash of steel, it might be between political disagreements that could destroy the crusade before the final nail is delivered. Godfrey's journey involves honor and a blade, and figuring out the perplexing vision that the gods have given him. His romance with Madeline, which reflects the conflict between duty and love, gives the plot an intriguing layer that keeps you on the edge of your seat!
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Each chapter of Godfrey's Crusade is fascinating, leading us farther into its universe as you observe the fragile stability of a sacred quest that verges on catastrophe, both the harshness of the characters and the icy chill of the Nordslands are captured in the story's ruthless yet majestic structure, the characters are vessels of fate, each powered by forces bigger than themselves but nevertheless battling against their own weaknesses. Godfrey is an unstoppable hero because of his firm sacrifice, but the harsh winds of fate and the opposing alliances also influence his destiny!
.
The great design of the novel, its detailed magic, betrayal, and fate lives and gasps with a powerful sense of utmost urgency, The crusader competition, the threat of ancient evils, and Godfrey's spiritual, often esoteric struggles are some mind-blowing plot points that had me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. Godfrey's Crusade's last details are astonishing and will numb your hands and feet, every chapter of Howard's work reveals further dimensions of amazing detail and unexpected mystery making this book a ten stars read!
May 24, 2025
This book was a fast paced, world building SPECTACULAR!! What a great first book of what will no doubt be an amazing series!
When I first started Godfrey's Crusade, I anticipated a classic knightly tale, complete with swords, banners, and lofty ideals contrasted against the brutalities of battle. Indeed, it features all of that. However, Mark Howard carefully offers layers of difficulty, intrigue, and quiet, boiling clashes that transform the story into more than just a tale of chivalry. It is an investigating of what happens when faith meets the battlefield, when pragmatism tests loyalty, and when a man's convictions are his greatest asset and his greatest weakness.
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Godfrey, a young nobleman with an almost unnerving sense of purpose, is the protagonist of the book. He is driven to pick up the sword for a crusade against the barbaric clans of the Nordslands by a vision that he believes was inspired by God. However, he is surprised by how difficult the battlefield is. He falls into the political structure of war, and orcs and cyclopes. His beloved, Madeline, has magic, a talent that makes the same faith Godfrey defends suspicious and afraid, and the worst of all, perhaps far more dangerous than any rival are the crusaders themselves.
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Howard's power to delicately reimagine traditional fantasy elements—knights, witches, warlords, and epic battles—in this book is one of its finest qualities. The confrontations are intellectual wars. Godfrey is a hero considering the results of his actions and wondering if his visions are heavenly guidance or something much more terrible. Howard constructs a world rich in religion, history, and feudal politics that seems to have been lived in. The story takes force from the crusade's structure, the conflict between several factions, and its realism of how war is fought.
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The novel Godfrey's Crusade is a success of fantasy with epic elements, evoking the essence of chivalry without ever downplaying its flaws. This is a must-read for anyone who like On Wings Of Blood or the political intrigue of Game of Thrones. And since the Griffin Legends series is just getting started, I'm confident that the best is still to come.
When I first started Godfrey's Crusade, I anticipated a classic knightly tale, complete with swords, banners, and lofty ideals contrasted against the brutalities of battle. Indeed, it features all of that. However, Mark Howard carefully offers layers of difficulty, intrigue, and quiet, boiling clashes that transform the story into more than just a tale of chivalry. It is an investigating of what happens when faith meets the battlefield, when pragmatism tests loyalty, and when a man's convictions are his greatest asset and his greatest weakness.
.
Godfrey, a young nobleman with an almost unnerving sense of purpose, is the protagonist of the book. He is driven to pick up the sword for a crusade against the barbaric clans of the Nordslands by a vision that he believes was inspired by God. However, he is surprised by how difficult the battlefield is. He falls into the political structure of war, and orcs and cyclopes. His beloved, Madeline, has magic, a talent that makes the same faith Godfrey defends suspicious and afraid, and the worst of all, perhaps far more dangerous than any rival are the crusaders themselves.
.
Howard's power to delicately reimagine traditional fantasy elements—knights, witches, warlords, and epic battles—in this book is one of its finest qualities. The confrontations are intellectual wars. Godfrey is a hero considering the results of his actions and wondering if his visions are heavenly guidance or something much more terrible. Howard constructs a world rich in religion, history, and feudal politics that seems to have been lived in. The story takes force from the crusade's structure, the conflict between several factions, and its realism of how war is fought.
.
The novel Godfrey's Crusade is a success of fantasy with epic elements, evoking the essence of chivalry without ever downplaying its flaws. This is a must-read for anyone who like On Wings Of Blood or the political intrigue of Game of Thrones. And since the Griffin Legends series is just getting started, I'm confident that the best is still to come.
May 24, 2025
Mark Howard has written an epic story in Godfrey's Crusade that matches the finest elements of Arthurian legend with military fantasy, taking us to a realm where magic, honor, and fate all develop altogether. A young, idealistic knight named Godfrey offers to go on a crusade to the far-off Nordslands, where the Kingdom of Azgald is under grave danger from barbaric clans, hideous monsters, and an army of old magic.
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Powerful and sweeping, Howard's world-building sends you to a place as cold and icy as the emotions of some of its characters. You can tell the stakes are much higher than any knight's call to arms the instant Godfrey enters the fray—it's a fight for unity, survival, and eventually the crusade's very spirit.
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Godfrey's Crusade is unique in that it carefully develops political intrigue with fierce military strategy to craft a story focusing on challenges both inside and outside the mission that threaten its very structure in alongside actual battles. The real threat develops as Godfrey faces the formidable figure of Warlord Alvir and the sorcerous abilities of Nera, the Great Witch—not from their adversaries on the battlefield, but from the rifts that develop among the crusaders themselves. These conflicts are cleverly built together by Howard, who uses the character tension to create layers of sophistication that kept me intrigued.
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Godfrey's Crusade is an intriguing exploration of what it means to be a leader, a knight, and a human being caught up in a storm of history. Mark Howard's grasp of pacing, world-building, and character development is original and very unique that shattered my ground. The plot is beautifully crafted, with each twist building on the previous one. This is a story that entertains and raises difficult questions about the nature of responsibility, the cost of ambition, and the value of love in a world on the threshold of catastrophe.
.
Powerful and sweeping, Howard's world-building sends you to a place as cold and icy as the emotions of some of its characters. You can tell the stakes are much higher than any knight's call to arms the instant Godfrey enters the fray—it's a fight for unity, survival, and eventually the crusade's very spirit.
.
Godfrey's Crusade is unique in that it carefully develops political intrigue with fierce military strategy to craft a story focusing on challenges both inside and outside the mission that threaten its very structure in alongside actual battles. The real threat develops as Godfrey faces the formidable figure of Warlord Alvir and the sorcerous abilities of Nera, the Great Witch—not from their adversaries on the battlefield, but from the rifts that develop among the crusaders themselves. These conflicts are cleverly built together by Howard, who uses the character tension to create layers of sophistication that kept me intrigued.
.
Godfrey's Crusade is an intriguing exploration of what it means to be a leader, a knight, and a human being caught up in a storm of history. Mark Howard's grasp of pacing, world-building, and character development is original and very unique that shattered my ground. The plot is beautifully crafted, with each twist building on the previous one. This is a story that entertains and raises difficult questions about the nature of responsibility, the cost of ambition, and the value of love in a world on the threshold of catastrophe.
May 24, 2025
I absolutely couldn't put this book down! Godfrey's Crusade left me truly speechless because it's about fighting an opponent on the outside, the book is also about overcoming the internal conflicts that are raging inside. The action sequences are powerful, the stakes are high, and Azgald's fate depends on decisions made in the midst of rivalry, dedication, and chance in alongside Godfrey's sacred blade. Mark Howard delivers a memorable experience with his fierce pacing and vivid details.
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Every turn of events is weighed down by the possibilities, and as Godfrey goes through his last trial, you will feel as if you are also on the brink of a disastrous choice. A masterpiece of Arthurian and military fantasy, Godfrey's Crusade is one that must be read, enjoyed, and experienced.
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Nothing in this life is ever exactly simple as it appears. Godfrey, with his unfailing commitment, is a knight imprisoned by the laws of his order and a man anguished by the actual cost of his religion. The characters are stunning in their complexity.
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Every conflict shows new dimensions of humanity, strength, and fragility, regardless matter whether it is performed with a sword or the spirit. As Godfrey progresses deeper into the Nordslands, the ancient evil that awaits him—led by the vicious Warlord Alvir and the Great Witch Nera—becomes a terrifying apocalyptic force that seems capable of wiping out all.
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Actual rating: 6 i-need-the-next-book-now ⭐️'s . I think this might be my favorite book of the year—actually, it probably is! From the outstanding plot to the gut-punching battles, everything about it was perfect. The ending left many details not unfolded and I have many questions, I really can't wait for the second installment because this blew my mind and the ending left me with mouth open, it has been a long time since I read a magnificent book like this one!
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Every turn of events is weighed down by the possibilities, and as Godfrey goes through his last trial, you will feel as if you are also on the brink of a disastrous choice. A masterpiece of Arthurian and military fantasy, Godfrey's Crusade is one that must be read, enjoyed, and experienced.
.
Nothing in this life is ever exactly simple as it appears. Godfrey, with his unfailing commitment, is a knight imprisoned by the laws of his order and a man anguished by the actual cost of his religion. The characters are stunning in their complexity.
.
Every conflict shows new dimensions of humanity, strength, and fragility, regardless matter whether it is performed with a sword or the spirit. As Godfrey progresses deeper into the Nordslands, the ancient evil that awaits him—led by the vicious Warlord Alvir and the Great Witch Nera—becomes a terrifying apocalyptic force that seems capable of wiping out all.
.
Actual rating: 6 i-need-the-next-book-now ⭐️'s . I think this might be my favorite book of the year—actually, it probably is! From the outstanding plot to the gut-punching battles, everything about it was perfect. The ending left many details not unfolded and I have many questions, I really can't wait for the second installment because this blew my mind and the ending left me with mouth open, it has been a long time since I read a magnificent book like this one!
December 12, 2023
Godfrey's Crusade is a rousing, fictional tale of a plucky, wise and nimble squire turned knight. Godfrey's training as a squire for a knight named Fallard comes to a close when he avenges the reported death of a woman by fighting his way through skeleton guards, a wight (spirit or ghost) and finally beheading a vampire. Shortly after being knighted, Godfrey learns of Alvir, a genuine baddy, who is uniting the 5 Nordsland clans and proceeding toward capturing Azgald. Godfrey elects to become one of the leaders of a crusade to go there to stop Alvir. The other leaders of this crusade have opposing goals, and Godfrey must fight to bring them together, defeat the evil Alvir and his equally nasty wife Nera, and win the love of Madeline, daughter of one of the duplicitous crusaders, Tancred.
This tale is chock full of bad guys - orcs, the undead, cyclopes, vampires, wights, wargs, and the most evil of them all, a dragon named Vozzab. Armed with a magic sword named Uriel and perched upon his noble steed Baruch, Godfrey challenges all. He is nearly killed by berserkers, only to be healed by erstwhile sorceress Madeline; he is betrayed by fellow crusader Conrad when they had the chance to defeat Alvir; then again he is nearly destroyed, this time by Nera. In the end he fights Vozzab astride a griffin provided by an elf.
This tale has historic feel. The maps provided of Lortharain and Nordslands resemble France and Great Britain. Godfrey fights the united clans, as did King Edward of England. The story is full of Middle Ages words, such as spangenhelm, tabard, hauberk, coif and palisade. All that, plus the noble, altruistic Godfrey wins out in the end. It's a fun tale which will keep you engaged, and it appears to be #1 in a series. Give it a look.
This tale is chock full of bad guys - orcs, the undead, cyclopes, vampires, wights, wargs, and the most evil of them all, a dragon named Vozzab. Armed with a magic sword named Uriel and perched upon his noble steed Baruch, Godfrey challenges all. He is nearly killed by berserkers, only to be healed by erstwhile sorceress Madeline; he is betrayed by fellow crusader Conrad when they had the chance to defeat Alvir; then again he is nearly destroyed, this time by Nera. In the end he fights Vozzab astride a griffin provided by an elf.
This tale has historic feel. The maps provided of Lortharain and Nordslands resemble France and Great Britain. Godfrey fights the united clans, as did King Edward of England. The story is full of Middle Ages words, such as spangenhelm, tabard, hauberk, coif and palisade. All that, plus the noble, altruistic Godfrey wins out in the end. It's a fun tale which will keep you engaged, and it appears to be #1 in a series. Give it a look.
August 30, 2021
A fun and easy to read low fantasy book, and one of the only books I have genuinely enjoyed in years. Though I have not finished it yet, I am enjoying the main character a lot.
Godfrey is honestly a fun character who I desperately love cheering for. He clings to the idea of being this stalwart and religious warrior, and really tries his best to hold to these standards. But he gets injured, he acts like a child, and I think the thing I like the most, is he is scared, he knows that every time he acts he could die. He understands that every order he does he can get some one killed. But he does it because in his eyes its the right thing.
The world is well thought out, clean, and nothing to extreme or out there in ideas.
Characters are as you would expect, Bickering nobles (On a Crusade!? Never?) Norse esq leader who shows talent for cunning and yet skill at leading his men, also so far hasn't done anything cartoonish in his evil. Quick to react religious hierarchy? You bet! That prick noble that is unbearable and just a bully, who may still redeem himself, maybe. But also screw that guy.
Combat so far has been good old medieval enthusiast happily showing off his great understanding of knight tactics and styles.
Now, the important thing is, the easiness of which this book reads, the writing style is very simple, clean, and easy to understand. Simple easy to remember names with variety enough that you don’t have to go look back to see if these two guys are the same person.
I honestly really loved this book and the author is a really great guy. Would totally watch a movie about this.
April 20, 2026
Full disclosure: I was asked to review by the author. That said, I still would have given 5 stars all the same. 4.5 to be more precise. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
My thoughts
1. It is much more immersive than most fantasy I’ve read (I’m looking at you, Brando Sando). My critique of (I think) every author I’ve read (except Tolkien and Pratchett) is that the immersion—what I look forward to most with fantasy— is lacking. The details Howard put into everyday experience (e.g., clo thing, armor, buildings, weather) is really great.
2. I absolutely LOVE that I can imagine this in a very specific historical period (12-13th century) and that the mindsets feel true to that period. It feels exactly like the kind of story that would inspire chivalry during the 13th century. The values do not seem to be “modern forced on medieval” like everything else coming out nowadays. When I want to get immersed, I want to understand not only what the place looked or felt like. I want to look at the world through their eyes, which obviously involves a very religious worldview and values that emphasize virtue ethics over consequentialism (pretty much only after 19th century—Bentham and Mill). Another author who does this well imo is Bernard Cornwell.
3. I like that Howard sticks to classic medieval fantasy aesthetic and doesn’t try to be on some borderline sci-fi world in the name of “creativity”. I love that there’s necromancy, vampires, dragons, and who knows what else! I absolutely love when stories include these elements, and your world feels all the more big and exciting for it.
4. Howard absolutely delivers on the ending. 4/5 for most of the story but 5/5 for that ending.
My thoughts
1. It is much more immersive than most fantasy I’ve read (I’m looking at you, Brando Sando). My critique of (I think) every author I’ve read (except Tolkien and Pratchett) is that the immersion—what I look forward to most with fantasy— is lacking. The details Howard put into everyday experience (e.g., clo thing, armor, buildings, weather) is really great.
2. I absolutely LOVE that I can imagine this in a very specific historical period (12-13th century) and that the mindsets feel true to that period. It feels exactly like the kind of story that would inspire chivalry during the 13th century. The values do not seem to be “modern forced on medieval” like everything else coming out nowadays. When I want to get immersed, I want to understand not only what the place looked or felt like. I want to look at the world through their eyes, which obviously involves a very religious worldview and values that emphasize virtue ethics over consequentialism (pretty much only after 19th century—Bentham and Mill). Another author who does this well imo is Bernard Cornwell.
3. I like that Howard sticks to classic medieval fantasy aesthetic and doesn’t try to be on some borderline sci-fi world in the name of “creativity”. I love that there’s necromancy, vampires, dragons, and who knows what else! I absolutely love when stories include these elements, and your world feels all the more big and exciting for it.
4. Howard absolutely delivers on the ending. 4/5 for most of the story but 5/5 for that ending.
May 24, 2025
The young knight Godfrey volunteers for a crusade to the frozen, unforgiving Nordslands, where the Kingdom of Azgald calls for support in the face of impending destruction. Mark Howard's Godfrey's Crusade is a story of uncompromising chivalric honor and the burdens of destiny that will grip your soul from the very first page.
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His hopefulness is untouched, but the weight of this mission becomes more substantial than he could ever imagine—not from the orcs or cyclopes he must face, but from the devastating human rivalries that start to break the crusade's unity.
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Like an unstoppable hurricane, the plot develops, with each wave bringing with it a more exciting reveal or betrayal. Godfrey becomes caught in a trap of political intrigue, forbidden love, and occult energies that have the potential to either save or destroy the Nordslands as the crusade advances farther into their interior. His beloved, Madeline, keeps her magical abilities hidden from the church and the cunning lords in their immediate vicinity, and her secrets threaten to destroy their entire world.
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As Mark Howard explores how far a man will go when forced to choose between loyalty and treason, love and honor, the struggle between Godfrey's love for Madeline and his allegiance to his duty burns like an old magic, dragging us farther into the plot. This was an epic read that I truly suggest it to fantasy readers, I can't say it is a romantasy because romance is only a subplot but the fantasy and military elements are really professional and unique that I enjoyed the entertainment so much!
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His hopefulness is untouched, but the weight of this mission becomes more substantial than he could ever imagine—not from the orcs or cyclopes he must face, but from the devastating human rivalries that start to break the crusade's unity.
.
Like an unstoppable hurricane, the plot develops, with each wave bringing with it a more exciting reveal or betrayal. Godfrey becomes caught in a trap of political intrigue, forbidden love, and occult energies that have the potential to either save or destroy the Nordslands as the crusade advances farther into their interior. His beloved, Madeline, keeps her magical abilities hidden from the church and the cunning lords in their immediate vicinity, and her secrets threaten to destroy their entire world.
.
As Mark Howard explores how far a man will go when forced to choose between loyalty and treason, love and honor, the struggle between Godfrey's love for Madeline and his allegiance to his duty burns like an old magic, dragging us farther into the plot. This was an epic read that I truly suggest it to fantasy readers, I can't say it is a romantasy because romance is only a subplot but the fantasy and military elements are really professional and unique that I enjoyed the entertainment so much!
December 31, 2023
In a world where chivalry isn't dead and knights still battle monsters, a newly minted knight is inspired to take up a crusade. His cause is just and his family supportive, but as with all adventures, danger abounds. As he navigates the ins and outs of his first crusade, Godfrey soon learns it is not just the monsters he can see that he must worry about, but the political ones that are not so evident.
An action packed story filled with with monsters and magic complete with a young hero and a not so distressed damsel, Godfrey's Crusade makes for a delightful read on a rainy afternoon, ideal for young adults and fantasy fans alike. Combined with a healthy dose of historical realism that keeps the reader grounded, I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading the next installment in the series.
An action packed story filled with with monsters and magic complete with a young hero and a not so distressed damsel, Godfrey's Crusade makes for a delightful read on a rainy afternoon, ideal for young adults and fantasy fans alike. Combined with a healthy dose of historical realism that keeps the reader grounded, I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading the next installment in the series.
April 28, 2025
If you're looking for a straightforward fantasy novel then this is it. There were so many elements and characters to this book that I didn't expect but I was pleasantly pleased.
I love that the author gave me the full picture of Godfrey. You get to see where he came from and what he went through to get to where he is. That is one element that I truly appreciated. Godfrey Is an honest and sincere man. He's always going to do the right thing. Henceforth why he joined the crusade. I like that through all of this, Godfrey discovers a lot about himself and the world around him.
The book will seem a little slow in the beginning but it's just because the author is laying the history of Godfrey down. I personally appreciated that aspect so I didn't mind the slower pace.
I love that the author gave me the full picture of Godfrey. You get to see where he came from and what he went through to get to where he is. That is one element that I truly appreciated. Godfrey Is an honest and sincere man. He's always going to do the right thing. Henceforth why he joined the crusade. I like that through all of this, Godfrey discovers a lot about himself and the world around him.
The book will seem a little slow in the beginning but it's just because the author is laying the history of Godfrey down. I personally appreciated that aspect so I didn't mind the slower pace.
August 25, 2024
This was the team pick for the Keymark readathon and though I tried to go in with an open mind it wasn’t one I personally would have picked up.
It’s a good read but the story was told with little in the way of dialogue. Little things seemed to take me out of the story like not calling the king “your grace” which I know in fantasy could be anything but… Godfrey’s decision making also annoyed me. Yes he had high morals but he decided to leave a fortress due to morals and not let his men rest/heal the day after a battle???
Many of the characters were good. I especially liked the Ranger, Varin. I liked the use of using birds as omens like the ancient Greeks did.
It’s a good read but the story was told with little in the way of dialogue. Little things seemed to take me out of the story like not calling the king “your grace” which I know in fantasy could be anything but… Godfrey’s decision making also annoyed me. Yes he had high morals but he decided to leave a fortress due to morals and not let his men rest/heal the day after a battle???
Many of the characters were good. I especially liked the Ranger, Varin. I liked the use of using birds as omens like the ancient Greeks did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2026
Review: This was YA trashy in all the right places to lend brevity to the story line. If the author had made a deeper dive into fraught and tense instances, this novel would have blown your doors off. Because of this, the magic lacked depth as did the creatures that inhabit the land. The courtly intrigue and backstabbing also lacked complicated intent.
This novel excels in the varied amount of characters that are built well. From bit players to MCs, this story line rocked. I really enjoyed the varied species / monsters although the setting was stark and miserable.
On to the next!
4.6/5
This novel excels in the varied amount of characters that are built well. From bit players to MCs, this story line rocked. I really enjoyed the varied species / monsters although the setting was stark and miserable.
On to the next!
4.6/5
November 15, 2021
Average. But good debut.
I am giving this book a rating of 4 because it is, in my opinion, average.
I prefer fantasy with complex characters and well thought out worlds. Godfrey's Crusade falls short of both. I will note that it reads like YA, which is not my preferred genre.
I will give praise that it is consistent, the pacing is great and the story is easy to follow. My favorite character is Madeline. Love her.
I hope Mark continues the journey and hones his craft. All things considered, he has written a solid debut book
I am giving this book a rating of 4 because it is, in my opinion, average.
I prefer fantasy with complex characters and well thought out worlds. Godfrey's Crusade falls short of both. I will note that it reads like YA, which is not my preferred genre.
I will give praise that it is consistent, the pacing is great and the story is easy to follow. My favorite character is Madeline. Love her.
I hope Mark continues the journey and hones his craft. All things considered, he has written a solid debut book
August 21, 2023
This was a fun and entertaining fantasy novel. When it comes to the fantasy genre, I think it's important that the author creates an escape for the reader, and in this case, I felt the author achieved that without anything being too complicated. I felt there were some quite humorous moments in the story too.
This reminded me of the type of book that I might have chosen when I was younger, so I wonder if teens and young adults would enjoy this series.
This reminded me of the type of book that I might have chosen when I was younger, so I wonder if teens and young adults would enjoy this series.
August 28, 2024
How amazing to have found my third five star read for 2024 in the same month as the other two.
If the title reads “Crusade,” I’m in. At first I thought I would be in for a Cornwell or Follett tale, but was I mistaken in the best ways. This tickles the D&D itch if you’re wanting something a little more serious than Nicholas Eames (but why would you?), very meaty but able to be savored or sped through. Check this out at your earliest convenience, and catch me on book 2.
If the title reads “Crusade,” I’m in. At first I thought I would be in for a Cornwell or Follett tale, but was I mistaken in the best ways. This tickles the D&D itch if you’re wanting something a little more serious than Nicholas Eames (but why would you?), very meaty but able to be savored or sped through. Check this out at your earliest convenience, and catch me on book 2.
April 22, 2022
I received this book free from the author after I’d read a advert for it online.
The first thing that grabbed me was the beautiful cover.
I enjoyed every page of it the main character was very likeable and very accessible.
I will definitely read any more books in the series as soon as they are released.
The first thing that grabbed me was the beautiful cover.
I enjoyed every page of it the main character was very likeable and very accessible.
I will definitely read any more books in the series as soon as they are released.
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