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The Wolf of Kings
Oath Bound: A gripping historical adventure set in 1066
First in an action-packed historical series featuring Danish warrior Styrkar, and his journey through the Battle of Hastings and the violence of the Norman Conquest.
The champion of a dead king has nothing left to lose... And nothing more to fear.England, 1066.
Styrkar the Dane stumbles wounded and delirious from the corpse-strewn battlefield of Senlac Hill, the Battle of Hastings still fresh in his mind. He has watched his king butchered at the hands of foreign knights, seen his countrymen defeated in battle, and he will not stop until there is a reckoning.
Styrkar embarks on a bloody quest to avenge his dead master, becoming an outlaw in the wilds and earning a fearsome reputation. When a Breton knight seeks to track down this fugitive and make his own name, he can little envisage the task he has set himself. For Styrkar, the Red Wolf, last surviving housecarl to King Harold Godwinson, will carve the story of his vengeance in Frankish flesh... or die in the attempt.
Praise for Richard
'A perfect example of tight, gritty, character-driven storytelling' Luke Scull, author of The Grim Company (on Herald of the Storm)
The champion of a dead king has nothing left to lose... And nothing more to fear.England, 1066.
Styrkar the Dane stumbles wounded and delirious from the corpse-strewn battlefield of Senlac Hill, the Battle of Hastings still fresh in his mind. He has watched his king butchered at the hands of foreign knights, seen his countrymen defeated in battle, and he will not stop until there is a reckoning.
Styrkar embarks on a bloody quest to avenge his dead master, becoming an outlaw in the wilds and earning a fearsome reputation. When a Breton knight seeks to track down this fugitive and make his own name, he can little envisage the task he has set himself. For Styrkar, the Red Wolf, last surviving housecarl to King Harold Godwinson, will carve the story of his vengeance in Frankish flesh... or die in the attempt.
Praise for Richard
'A perfect example of tight, gritty, character-driven storytelling' Luke Scull, author of The Grim Company (on Herald of the Storm)
Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2021
180 people are currently reading
304 people want to read
About the author
Richard Cullen
6 books39 followersRichard Cullen originally hails from Leeds in the heartland of Yorkshire. He is a writer of historical adventure fiction and fantasy (check out R S Ford on Goodreads here: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...)
You can find out more about what he's up to, and download free stuff, here:
http://wordhog.co.uk
And follow him on Twitter here: @rich4ord
And Instagram here: thewordhog
You can find out more about what he's up to, and download free stuff, here:
http://wordhog.co.uk
And follow him on Twitter here: @rich4ord
And Instagram here: thewordhog
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 21, 2022
Richard Cullen's writing is as sharp as the blade wielded by Styrkar, the series' protagonist, who cuts a bloody swathe through his Norman enemies on his quest for vengeance. The books are fast-paced and packed with breathless action. Styrkar is a great heroic creation, and the Wolf of Kings series places Cullen in the top tier of historical action and adventure authors.
August 31, 2021
Oath Bound by Richard Cullen tells the story of a warrior called Styrkar - his life as a slave, how he became the most loyal follower of King Harold, the defeat of 1066 and his struggle for vengeance afterwards.
It didn't take long for me to become totally immersed in the plot. The story is incredibly well-written and fast-paced. I couldn't put it down as so many things keep happening, and I always wanted to know more. I especially loved Styrkar's character development, how his views and goals change with all the trials and ordeals he's got to survive. His nemesis is such a perfect villain who I came to hate pretty quickly.
It is the first book in a series, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I'd highly recommend it to everyone interested in this time period.
Many thanks to the publisher, Head of Zeus, and the author for this review copy!
********************************************
This was such an amazing read and I can't wait for the next book in the series! 😍 Proper review coming soon after my holiday!
It didn't take long for me to become totally immersed in the plot. The story is incredibly well-written and fast-paced. I couldn't put it down as so many things keep happening, and I always wanted to know more. I especially loved Styrkar's character development, how his views and goals change with all the trials and ordeals he's got to survive. His nemesis is such a perfect villain who I came to hate pretty quickly.
It is the first book in a series, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I'd highly recommend it to everyone interested in this time period.
Many thanks to the publisher, Head of Zeus, and the author for this review copy!
********************************************
This was such an amazing read and I can't wait for the next book in the series! 😍 Proper review coming soon after my holiday!
May 25, 2022
For one Dane a gift to escape slavery will fortify his oath. In the ensuing days ahead all oppressors will discover how strong that is. For the Red Wolf is fast becoming legend. And he is vengeance.
I ripped through this one. Action packed and gripping. Read this!
I ripped through this one. Action packed and gripping. Read this!
July 30, 2022
Oathbound starts with a vivid and well-sketched scene in the immediate aftermath of the battle of Hastings. From there, we're taken back in time to Styrkar's childhood in Denmark and told how he came to England - an important detail as Styrkar is a Dane, housecarl to the half-Danish Harold Godwinson, and he should never have come to England's shores. But it is to Harold Godwinson that Styrkar is oath-bound at the battle of Hastings.
The following tale is well told, as we follow Styrkar in the aftermath of the English defeat at the battle of Hastings. It's not long until he is butting heads with the Franks from Normandy and making himself both a powerful enemy and a less than friendly ally.
I'm intrigued by how this story will develop in book 2. Styrkar is a complex character, thrust into a world where nothing is at it was, and he's not above fighting for what he feels is right, but equally, sometimes he just wants to fight and doesn't consider the consequences. With the build-up for book two an important part of the ending to book 1, it's very clear that our main character (I'm not sure he's a hero) is really going to be placed in a compromising position throughout Shield Breaker.
Oath Bound is a fascinating start to a new series exploring England after the Norman Conquest, pitting Norman/Frank against a Danish/Saxon, essentially two men for whom England isn't their home, and yet who must make their lives there, all the same.
The following tale is well told, as we follow Styrkar in the aftermath of the English defeat at the battle of Hastings. It's not long until he is butting heads with the Franks from Normandy and making himself both a powerful enemy and a less than friendly ally.
I'm intrigued by how this story will develop in book 2. Styrkar is a complex character, thrust into a world where nothing is at it was, and he's not above fighting for what he feels is right, but equally, sometimes he just wants to fight and doesn't consider the consequences. With the build-up for book two an important part of the ending to book 1, it's very clear that our main character (I'm not sure he's a hero) is really going to be placed in a compromising position throughout Shield Breaker.
Oath Bound is a fascinating start to a new series exploring England after the Norman Conquest, pitting Norman/Frank against a Danish/Saxon, essentially two men for whom England isn't their home, and yet who must make their lives there, all the same.
January 25, 2022
‘Carrion crows led a path to the dead.’
England, 1066
Styrkar the Dane has survived the Battle of Hastings. Enslaved, a victim of Norse raids, he had become a loyal follower of King Harold Godwinson (Harold II), and vows to avenge his death. Styrkar becomes an outlaw and earns a fearsome reputation, thus drawing the attention of a particular Breton knight who seeks to make his own name by hunting him down.
‘He was the Red Wolf – neither a man nor a beast.’
In this novel, the first of a series, Mr Cullen portrays the violence of the Norman Conquest of England, the alliances and allegiances that failed the English and enabled the Normans to flourish. The knight seeking to destroy Styrkar will stop at nothing to achieve his objectives: the lives of others are unimportant. And Strykar himself learns that there is more to life than revenge, but can he find peace?
I enjoyed this novel and am looking forward to the next in the series which I understand is due to be released in July. If you enjoy historical fiction set in the eleventh century, I can recommend this novel.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
England, 1066
Styrkar the Dane has survived the Battle of Hastings. Enslaved, a victim of Norse raids, he had become a loyal follower of King Harold Godwinson (Harold II), and vows to avenge his death. Styrkar becomes an outlaw and earns a fearsome reputation, thus drawing the attention of a particular Breton knight who seeks to make his own name by hunting him down.
‘He was the Red Wolf – neither a man nor a beast.’
In this novel, the first of a series, Mr Cullen portrays the violence of the Norman Conquest of England, the alliances and allegiances that failed the English and enabled the Normans to flourish. The knight seeking to destroy Styrkar will stop at nothing to achieve his objectives: the lives of others are unimportant. And Strykar himself learns that there is more to life than revenge, but can he find peace?
I enjoyed this novel and am looking forward to the next in the series which I understand is due to be released in July. If you enjoy historical fiction set in the eleventh century, I can recommend this novel.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
January 31, 2022
The first book in a news series about the Norman Conquest of England. It is a brutal time and the story is told from the two side.
The main character is Styrkar who fought for the English King and wants to avenge him. What I enjoyed most about Styrkar is that the reader see the different sides of him and his struggles and doubts about his journey and the choices he makes.
The book takes place in a very interesting time in history and fans of Bernard Cornwell will enjoy this first book in a series.
The main character is Styrkar who fought for the English King and wants to avenge him. What I enjoyed most about Styrkar is that the reader see the different sides of him and his struggles and doubts about his journey and the choices he makes.
The book takes place in a very interesting time in history and fans of Bernard Cornwell will enjoy this first book in a series.
December 29, 2022
Super read😎
I enjoyed the read,it's well in line with other novels of this type and authors.I have book2 I am looking forward to the continuing read.😎
I enjoyed the read,it's well in line with other novels of this type and authors.I have book2 I am looking forward to the continuing read.😎
July 28, 2022
Styrkar the Dane, known as Red Wolf, was taken from his homeland as a boy to serve as a slave for Norse King Harald Sigurdsson. He never expected that a twist of fate would lead him to becoming the loyal housecarl and champion of the Saxon King Harold Godwinson, but he learned to love the man who gave him his freedom and taught him how to fight.
When 1066 brings a new conqueror to English shores in the form of Duke William from Normandy, and Harold's army is defeated on Senlac Hill at the Battle of Hastings, Styrkar loses everything he holds dear once more. Staggering from the battlefield, his only wish is for revenge against the Normans that have stolen his future, and he embarks on a one man quest to kill as many of these invaders as he can.
Living as an outlaw, the Red Wolf earns a fearsome reputation, until a Breton knight called Ronan takes it upon himself to track Styrkar down to make a name for himself. What does fate hold for Styrkar now?
This is a story set against an extremely turbulent and bloody period of English history, and you can feel the push and pull of all the different influences that shaped the country at this time right from the word go, with enemies both within and without its borders vying for dominance. Cullen takes us through the transition from Saxons under King Harold Godwinson, to the Norman era with William the Conqueror on the throne, mixing in plenty of shenanigans on the part of Norse and Welsh parties too - all driven by one of the strongest motivating factors there is, ambition. I don't think I have read anything that shows so well how much resistance there was to Norman rule in the years following 1066, and I found it particularly interesting to view things through the eyes of the losing Saxon side - after all, history is normally written from the point of view of the victor.
Styrkar, our sort-of-protagonist, is an unusual character to propel a story of this kind. For a start, he is Danish, by way of Norway, which makes him an anachronism as a Saxon champion. He is a tricky man to warm to, but his role as something of an outsider actually allows Cullen to take a good hard look at the way both sides behave in times of war - no one really comes out of this well, which I think makes it quite an accurate portrayal of the shifting nature of allegiances, the every present risk of betrayal, and the self-serving behaviour that characterises the lay of the land when the game of thrones is in play.
Even Styrkar finds himself engaging in less that honourable behaviour in pursuit of his campaign of vengeance, before he comes to realise that perhaps there might be another way to live. I liked how Cullen highlights that for the people at the bottom end of the social scale it matters little who claims the right to be your king, and you can find yourself at the pointy end of a sword (and worse) from forces on both sides of the conflict merely by trying to survive in troubled times. There is something intrinsically timeless about that!
There is plenty of excitement of the clash of iron in these pages, and Cullen writes about the bloody moments of battle with an intensity that takes you right into the action. He holds nothing back about the brutality of the victorious either, eschewing the notion of romantic ideas about chivalry. This all adds to create an authentic feel to the the backdrop against which he weaves Styrkar's fictitious story. This is very much a page-turner of a historical fiction adventure, and the characters certainly hold your interest throughout its 400 pages with ease, as the plot moves back and forth between Styrkar's story and his Norman enemies. I would really like to have seen an appendix from Cullen talking about the historical context of this novel and what drew him to both this period and the character of Styrkar, as this would have rounded off the book nicely, so it is a shame that this is missing - a historical note is often one of my favourite parts of this kind of book. I did also have a slight issue with the use of Normans and Franks as interchangeable terms, speaking as someone from Norman stock, but admit that is unlikely to bother most readers.
I love a meaty historical adventure you can get your teeth into, and Richard Cullen has crafted a very tasty morsel here in Oath Bound. He also contrives an intriguing ending to this story, which creates a very nice little hook into where Styrkar must go in his next Wolf of Kings adventure, Shield Breaker. I look forward to seeing where the story goes next!
When 1066 brings a new conqueror to English shores in the form of Duke William from Normandy, and Harold's army is defeated on Senlac Hill at the Battle of Hastings, Styrkar loses everything he holds dear once more. Staggering from the battlefield, his only wish is for revenge against the Normans that have stolen his future, and he embarks on a one man quest to kill as many of these invaders as he can.
Living as an outlaw, the Red Wolf earns a fearsome reputation, until a Breton knight called Ronan takes it upon himself to track Styrkar down to make a name for himself. What does fate hold for Styrkar now?
This is a story set against an extremely turbulent and bloody period of English history, and you can feel the push and pull of all the different influences that shaped the country at this time right from the word go, with enemies both within and without its borders vying for dominance. Cullen takes us through the transition from Saxons under King Harold Godwinson, to the Norman era with William the Conqueror on the throne, mixing in plenty of shenanigans on the part of Norse and Welsh parties too - all driven by one of the strongest motivating factors there is, ambition. I don't think I have read anything that shows so well how much resistance there was to Norman rule in the years following 1066, and I found it particularly interesting to view things through the eyes of the losing Saxon side - after all, history is normally written from the point of view of the victor.
Styrkar, our sort-of-protagonist, is an unusual character to propel a story of this kind. For a start, he is Danish, by way of Norway, which makes him an anachronism as a Saxon champion. He is a tricky man to warm to, but his role as something of an outsider actually allows Cullen to take a good hard look at the way both sides behave in times of war - no one really comes out of this well, which I think makes it quite an accurate portrayal of the shifting nature of allegiances, the every present risk of betrayal, and the self-serving behaviour that characterises the lay of the land when the game of thrones is in play.
Even Styrkar finds himself engaging in less that honourable behaviour in pursuit of his campaign of vengeance, before he comes to realise that perhaps there might be another way to live. I liked how Cullen highlights that for the people at the bottom end of the social scale it matters little who claims the right to be your king, and you can find yourself at the pointy end of a sword (and worse) from forces on both sides of the conflict merely by trying to survive in troubled times. There is something intrinsically timeless about that!
There is plenty of excitement of the clash of iron in these pages, and Cullen writes about the bloody moments of battle with an intensity that takes you right into the action. He holds nothing back about the brutality of the victorious either, eschewing the notion of romantic ideas about chivalry. This all adds to create an authentic feel to the the backdrop against which he weaves Styrkar's fictitious story. This is very much a page-turner of a historical fiction adventure, and the characters certainly hold your interest throughout its 400 pages with ease, as the plot moves back and forth between Styrkar's story and his Norman enemies. I would really like to have seen an appendix from Cullen talking about the historical context of this novel and what drew him to both this period and the character of Styrkar, as this would have rounded off the book nicely, so it is a shame that this is missing - a historical note is often one of my favourite parts of this kind of book. I did also have a slight issue with the use of Normans and Franks as interchangeable terms, speaking as someone from Norman stock, but admit that is unlikely to bother most readers.
I love a meaty historical adventure you can get your teeth into, and Richard Cullen has crafted a very tasty morsel here in Oath Bound. He also contrives an intriguing ending to this story, which creates a very nice little hook into where Styrkar must go in his next Wolf of Kings adventure, Shield Breaker. I look forward to seeing where the story goes next!
August 20, 2021
Young Styrkar, the victim of Norse raiders, finds himself a slave not once but twice over, his final master being Harold Godwinsson - or King Harold II, the last Anglo-Saxon King of England. Following the defeat of Harold at Senlac, Styrkar vows to avenge the death of Harold on the Normans, becoming a figure of myth and terror - a boogeyman,preying on the unsuspecting and inspiring fear and dread in all. But there is one on his trail, one who seeks to capture, in the name of personal glory.
Styrkar's story is broken into four manageable parts: his life up to the sighting of the Normans; the invasion, battle and defeat of Harold; his vengeance against the Normans, and the cat and mouse battle with his nemesis.
We begin to get a feel for the character of Styrkar as the novel progresses, with the themes of loyalty and revenge ably explored. The author provides an atmospheric realism that will draw the reader into events that left their mark on the English landscape.
For those with an interest in the 11th century, this will make a nice detour and is only the beginning of a new series. Fans of Harrfy, Cornwell, and Hosker.
Looking forward to seeing how the series progresses.
Styrkar's story is broken into four manageable parts: his life up to the sighting of the Normans; the invasion, battle and defeat of Harold; his vengeance against the Normans, and the cat and mouse battle with his nemesis.
We begin to get a feel for the character of Styrkar as the novel progresses, with the themes of loyalty and revenge ably explored. The author provides an atmospheric realism that will draw the reader into events that left their mark on the English landscape.
For those with an interest in the 11th century, this will make a nice detour and is only the beginning of a new series. Fans of Harrfy, Cornwell, and Hosker.
Looking forward to seeing how the series progresses.
July 30, 2022
Oathbreaker is a solid, historical fiction novel that has excellent prose, great action, and an immersive worldbuilding experience. It introduces you to the most time-changing era of British history, the penultimate Battle of Hastings which in itself is a spoiler. But that was the battle that changed the fate of what England would become one day. And instantly, this book is very much like the Last Kingdom series in a way. You embark on Strykar’s journey and witness the destruction of the great Anglo-Saxon Kingdom led by Harold Godwinson.
Also, props to Richard for making Harold Godwinson a true historical figure, a man that was respected and won battles. Harold is often depicted as cowardly or weak, or not thought of much. But he won many important battles, and Hastings was not the best performance, but Harold didn’t die fighting as a coward. He died fighting as a hero. When you watch from Strykar’s point of view, you witness a changing world. A world where the anglo-Saxon influence diminishes and the Norman/Frankish influence begins to take shape.
Great action once again, this is a fantastic novel, and thank you to Ad Astra for allowing me to participate on this blog tour!
Also, props to Richard for making Harold Godwinson a true historical figure, a man that was respected and won battles. Harold is often depicted as cowardly or weak, or not thought of much. But he won many important battles, and Hastings was not the best performance, but Harold didn’t die fighting as a coward. He died fighting as a hero. When you watch from Strykar’s point of view, you witness a changing world. A world where the anglo-Saxon influence diminishes and the Norman/Frankish influence begins to take shape.
Great action once again, this is a fantastic novel, and thank you to Ad Astra for allowing me to participate on this blog tour!
October 17, 2022
A excellent story about Styrkar the Dane was taken from his home and made into a slave by the Norsemen who invaded his village. Then years later he was part of a invading norse army to Britain were after being captured he starts a new life fighting for new country and King. With all the historical events of the time.
October 12, 2022
Historic fiction well written.
Mr Cullen has put together a really good story here. One where the ‘building’ of the characters is as vast as the time of the story.
Enjoyed immensely the way this story grew - from a child enslaved to a ‘infamous’ warrior enslaved - but in a different way.
If you enjoy historic action novels where the good guys are, mostly, pretty good and the bad guys disguise themselves within the story - then do yourself a favour and have a read - it’s a good tale.
Mr Cullen has put together a really good story here. One where the ‘building’ of the characters is as vast as the time of the story.
Enjoyed immensely the way this story grew - from a child enslaved to a ‘infamous’ warrior enslaved - but in a different way.
If you enjoy historic action novels where the good guys are, mostly, pretty good and the bad guys disguise themselves within the story - then do yourself a favour and have a read - it’s a good tale.
December 18, 2022
Action bound historical fiction
One man tries to his find his purpose in life in this tale set in the Anglo-Saxon period in Britain. This man is determined and a fanatic follower until circumstances change with the invasion of the Normans. Now the man has a different purpose.
One man tries to his find his purpose in life in this tale set in the Anglo-Saxon period in Britain. This man is determined and a fanatic follower until circumstances change with the invasion of the Normans. Now the man has a different purpose.
December 27, 2023
Loved it
What a story. It has all the ingredients to get you hooked from the beginning. You cannot put it down. Author won't waste your time with boring descriptions or back stories . You find a cohesive development of the stories and their characters. There is always new people entering the pages. Interesting people that contribute to the overall of a very entertaining book. I was going thru a crisis of not finding a good read, till I found this jewel. Thanks
What a story. It has all the ingredients to get you hooked from the beginning. You cannot put it down. Author won't waste your time with boring descriptions or back stories . You find a cohesive development of the stories and their characters. There is always new people entering the pages. Interesting people that contribute to the overall of a very entertaining book. I was going thru a crisis of not finding a good read, till I found this jewel. Thanks
September 18, 2022
My thanks to Head Of Zeus books and Richard Cullen for providing me with an copy of this book for an honest review.
Oath Bound is a gripping and gritty revenge drama wrapped within the shaggy Norse cloak of historical fiction; a fantastic first foray into what looks to be an exciting new avenue of fiction for myself to explore.
It subverted my expectations for the book by using the surrounding of the famous Battle of Hastings as a frame through which the main revenge narrative could be configured, with a fierce lead character in Strykar the Dane. Once I’d wrapped my head around the fact that it was far more than simply a retelling of the events of the Battle of Hastings, I found myself fully invested in Styrkar’s quest to avenge his fallen king.
One aspect that particularly impressed me was the POV’s, which at a certain point in the novel switched between Styrkar and the main antagonist Ronan. Ronan was just as characterised as Strykar was, and at times, I felt an understanding of the struggles that had formed Ronan into the monster he had become.
The pace is whip fast, the prose highly readable, whilst still providing some beautiful descriptions, and Cullen seems to be rather good at writing motivational battle speeches too from the little snippets contained in this first entry.
Whilst the fast pace kept the plot trundling along in an unputdownable fashion, it did mean that in a book this short there wasn’t a lot of intense characterisation, and it did at times feel a little like mini vignettes from Strykar’s life in the way the book jumped around in time quite a bit. Ultimately it didn’t harm my enjoyment of the novel, as this is one for pure adrenaline entertainment, unlike some of the fantasy chonkers I read, and I think it actually suited this style of book rather well. Where characters’ motivations did start to feel just that little bit generic, it was ok because Richard writes it so well that you still build an affinity to that character.
CONCLUSION: Overall, this was a highly entertaining read for myself, and I can wholeheartedly recommend it to both readers old and new to the realm of historical fiction. If you’re after a slickly written revenge thriller set in the world of medieval Brittania with a highly motivated main character, and a stomach lurching yet oddly sympathetic villain, this will be one for the ages.
Oath Bound is a gripping and gritty revenge drama wrapped within the shaggy Norse cloak of historical fiction; a fantastic first foray into what looks to be an exciting new avenue of fiction for myself to explore.
It subverted my expectations for the book by using the surrounding of the famous Battle of Hastings as a frame through which the main revenge narrative could be configured, with a fierce lead character in Strykar the Dane. Once I’d wrapped my head around the fact that it was far more than simply a retelling of the events of the Battle of Hastings, I found myself fully invested in Styrkar’s quest to avenge his fallen king.
One aspect that particularly impressed me was the POV’s, which at a certain point in the novel switched between Styrkar and the main antagonist Ronan. Ronan was just as characterised as Strykar was, and at times, I felt an understanding of the struggles that had formed Ronan into the monster he had become.
The pace is whip fast, the prose highly readable, whilst still providing some beautiful descriptions, and Cullen seems to be rather good at writing motivational battle speeches too from the little snippets contained in this first entry.
Whilst the fast pace kept the plot trundling along in an unputdownable fashion, it did mean that in a book this short there wasn’t a lot of intense characterisation, and it did at times feel a little like mini vignettes from Strykar’s life in the way the book jumped around in time quite a bit. Ultimately it didn’t harm my enjoyment of the novel, as this is one for pure adrenaline entertainment, unlike some of the fantasy chonkers I read, and I think it actually suited this style of book rather well. Where characters’ motivations did start to feel just that little bit generic, it was ok because Richard writes it so well that you still build an affinity to that character.
CONCLUSION: Overall, this was a highly entertaining read for myself, and I can wholeheartedly recommend it to both readers old and new to the realm of historical fiction. If you’re after a slickly written revenge thriller set in the world of medieval Brittania with a highly motivated main character, and a stomach lurching yet oddly sympathetic villain, this will be one for the ages.
April 26, 2023
4.5 Stars - Oath Bound was and will forever be my first fiction book ready by choice and it has completely opened me up to the medium of fiction. The book is full of action and the chapters are short so there are many places to stop if needed, this is great for quick reading sessions. The characters are all well developed and the story ends at a good set-up for the next.
August 12, 2022
Wow what an amazing, exciting and gripping story! As a child Styrkar the Dane was taken from his home and made into a slave by the Norsemen who invaded his village. Some years later,he ends up on the shores of Britain where he is saved from his Norse captors by the soon to be king Harold Godwinson. Ever loyal to the man who freed him, Stykar ends up going into battle for his king more than once. But soon the Duke of Normandy invades the country and after that battle King Harold is killed. Enraged by the invading Franks and what they’ve done to his king, Styrkar sets off on a journey to enact revenge on all of the invaders. But things get complicated, and while Styrkar is out for revenge for King Harold’s death, someone else is out to take their revenge on him.
I can’t believe how much I have enjoyed this story from the very first pages! The book begins with a brief prologue on Senlac Hill (after the Battle of Hastings) in 1066 before going back in time to when Styrkar is just a boy. I loved this introduction to Styrkar’s life, first as we find out his back story with his mother and where he comes from, and later his life as a slave to the Norsemen before being freed in England to then serve King Harold.
As the story moves on Styrkar ends up close to Harold and his family. He develops a bond with the man who freed him, so when King Harold dies though, Styrkar is so angry he sets out on a quest for vengence, vowing to kill every Frank who has invaded the country. The book is split into four parts, and each part is filled with short chapters which are all so interesting and exciting to read. The book pretty fast paced, with lots happening throughout. Even when there are slower moments such as the time Styrkar spends with Harold’s wife and sons, the action never slows down, with so many things happening and this playing out quite like a movie in my mind.
Although following Styrkar’s story alone was interesting, I did find it even more interesting when we start to see things happening from the point of view of other characters too, especially Ronan. The chapters often alternate between what is happening to Styrkar and Ronan, as well as some other characters. I especially liked finding out more about Gisela whose story gets more interesting the further you read into her tale.
The story is so good throughout. There are lots of tense moments, interesting characters met and lots of great battle scenes too. There is a lot of action happening and I like Styrkar’s character as he grows through the story and realises the consequences of his actions and what really matters and is important to him. The ending has a great build up to it, a brilliant battle and finishes in an interesting way. I like what happens,with the last scene openning up the way forward for the second book in the series, Shield Breaker, which I really want to read now as I want to know what happens to Styrkar and that other character!
The book has the occasional use of the f and s swear words and there is a lot of violence, battles and fighting. Some of it is a bit gory, some deaths, but to me this book isn’t as gory as some books I’ve read, which I like. There is a list of place names at the front of the book, the old names used in the story and what some of these places are called today. There is glossary at the end of the book too, which I wish I’d known about before reading this as it makes it easier to understand what a few key words are in the story without prior knowledge or having to look them up.
Overall this is such an amazing read and a book which I just couldn’t put down! I enjoy a lot of historical fiction from the medieval period but this is definitely up there with some of my favourites! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series Shield Breaker, and can’t recommend this enough if you like exciting medieval historical fiction with lots of battles and a brilliant and exciting story!
-Thanks to Aries for a free copy.
I can’t believe how much I have enjoyed this story from the very first pages! The book begins with a brief prologue on Senlac Hill (after the Battle of Hastings) in 1066 before going back in time to when Styrkar is just a boy. I loved this introduction to Styrkar’s life, first as we find out his back story with his mother and where he comes from, and later his life as a slave to the Norsemen before being freed in England to then serve King Harold.
As the story moves on Styrkar ends up close to Harold and his family. He develops a bond with the man who freed him, so when King Harold dies though, Styrkar is so angry he sets out on a quest for vengence, vowing to kill every Frank who has invaded the country. The book is split into four parts, and each part is filled with short chapters which are all so interesting and exciting to read. The book pretty fast paced, with lots happening throughout. Even when there are slower moments such as the time Styrkar spends with Harold’s wife and sons, the action never slows down, with so many things happening and this playing out quite like a movie in my mind.
Although following Styrkar’s story alone was interesting, I did find it even more interesting when we start to see things happening from the point of view of other characters too, especially Ronan. The chapters often alternate between what is happening to Styrkar and Ronan, as well as some other characters. I especially liked finding out more about Gisela whose story gets more interesting the further you read into her tale.
The story is so good throughout. There are lots of tense moments, interesting characters met and lots of great battle scenes too. There is a lot of action happening and I like Styrkar’s character as he grows through the story and realises the consequences of his actions and what really matters and is important to him. The ending has a great build up to it, a brilliant battle and finishes in an interesting way. I like what happens,with the last scene openning up the way forward for the second book in the series, Shield Breaker, which I really want to read now as I want to know what happens to Styrkar and that other character!
The book has the occasional use of the f and s swear words and there is a lot of violence, battles and fighting. Some of it is a bit gory, some deaths, but to me this book isn’t as gory as some books I’ve read, which I like. There is a list of place names at the front of the book, the old names used in the story and what some of these places are called today. There is glossary at the end of the book too, which I wish I’d known about before reading this as it makes it easier to understand what a few key words are in the story without prior knowledge or having to look them up.
Overall this is such an amazing read and a book which I just couldn’t put down! I enjoy a lot of historical fiction from the medieval period but this is definitely up there with some of my favourites! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series Shield Breaker, and can’t recommend this enough if you like exciting medieval historical fiction with lots of battles and a brilliant and exciting story!
-Thanks to Aries for a free copy.
February 21, 2022
𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝗚𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗭𝗲𝘂𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄.
⚔️Oath Bound - 1st in The Wolf of Kings series - set on the backdrop of the Norman Conquest of Britain, tells the revenge story of a Danish warrior Styrkar who after the defeat of 1066 refused to bend his kneels before invading king & became a fugitive outlaw, seeking vengeance for the death of his master.
‘𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙙 𝙒𝙤𝙡𝙛 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙖𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙘𝙮. 𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙥𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙.’
England, 1066 AD. After the Battle of Hastings, Styrkar, a Danish warrior finds himself the last surviving warrior of King Harold Godwinson who had freed him from slavery, showed him compassion & admitted him into as his housecarl. But when he failed to protect him on the battlefield, Styrkar embarks on a bloody quest to avenge his death, becoming an outlaw in the wilds, murdering the invaders and the traitors alike, and earning a fearsome reputation of the Red Wolf. Meanwhile, Ronan, a Breton knight who had followed the Normandy invader in search of glory and power is tracking Styrkar, and he will go to any extent to make his own name in this new land by hunting him down. But the champion of the dead king has nothing left to lose, and nothing more to fear, he will not stop until there is a reckoning.
‘𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮. 𝙄𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚. 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙖��𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙙. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝘼𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚… 𝙄 𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬.’
⚔️Richard Cullen is the pen name of R. S. Ford and this is his first historical fiction. Since I have not read his other works, I had initially kept my expectation level down, but as I read, I find myself immersed in the story. The plot is incredibly well-written and fast-paced; the Use of multiple POVs gives you the outlook of two sides of the conquest; action scenes are gruesome and so many things keep happening, that it was hard to put down.
⚔️All the characters are immaculately crafted, even the minor characters' inner conflicts are explored. Styrkar's character development from being a slave to a housecarl and finally an outlawed fugitive was fabulous; His inner struggle between vengeance and redemption reminds me of Beobarnd's character from The Bernicia Chronicles. His nemesis Ronan is the perfect villain whom you're bound to hate. His lover Gisela although introduced late in the book still makes a great impression. I would’ve liked to read more of her POVs.
⚔️Lastly the climax of the story, I feel was disquiet and harrowing, but it was also the most fitting ending. Without giving any spoiler I would only say that it's not the end but only the beginning of Styrkar's greater journey. If you read the book you'll understand what I'm talking about.
Overall, Oath Bound was a wonderful read and I'm looking forward to read the next book. Fans of Bernard Cornwall and Matthew Harffy would surely enjoy this book. I find the book underrated on Goodreads and Amazon, but trust me if you're into historical fiction, then do read it, you won't regret it.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨(𝟒.𝟓/𝟓)
⚔️Oath Bound - 1st in The Wolf of Kings series - set on the backdrop of the Norman Conquest of Britain, tells the revenge story of a Danish warrior Styrkar who after the defeat of 1066 refused to bend his kneels before invading king & became a fugitive outlaw, seeking vengeance for the death of his master.
‘𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙙 𝙒𝙤𝙡𝙛 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙖𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙘𝙮. 𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙥𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙.’
England, 1066 AD. After the Battle of Hastings, Styrkar, a Danish warrior finds himself the last surviving warrior of King Harold Godwinson who had freed him from slavery, showed him compassion & admitted him into as his housecarl. But when he failed to protect him on the battlefield, Styrkar embarks on a bloody quest to avenge his death, becoming an outlaw in the wilds, murdering the invaders and the traitors alike, and earning a fearsome reputation of the Red Wolf. Meanwhile, Ronan, a Breton knight who had followed the Normandy invader in search of glory and power is tracking Styrkar, and he will go to any extent to make his own name in this new land by hunting him down. But the champion of the dead king has nothing left to lose, and nothing more to fear, he will not stop until there is a reckoning.
‘𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮. 𝙄𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚. 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙖��𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙙. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝘼𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚… 𝙄 𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬.’
⚔️Richard Cullen is the pen name of R. S. Ford and this is his first historical fiction. Since I have not read his other works, I had initially kept my expectation level down, but as I read, I find myself immersed in the story. The plot is incredibly well-written and fast-paced; the Use of multiple POVs gives you the outlook of two sides of the conquest; action scenes are gruesome and so many things keep happening, that it was hard to put down.
⚔️All the characters are immaculately crafted, even the minor characters' inner conflicts are explored. Styrkar's character development from being a slave to a housecarl and finally an outlawed fugitive was fabulous; His inner struggle between vengeance and redemption reminds me of Beobarnd's character from The Bernicia Chronicles. His nemesis Ronan is the perfect villain whom you're bound to hate. His lover Gisela although introduced late in the book still makes a great impression. I would’ve liked to read more of her POVs.
⚔️Lastly the climax of the story, I feel was disquiet and harrowing, but it was also the most fitting ending. Without giving any spoiler I would only say that it's not the end but only the beginning of Styrkar's greater journey. If you read the book you'll understand what I'm talking about.
Overall, Oath Bound was a wonderful read and I'm looking forward to read the next book. Fans of Bernard Cornwall and Matthew Harffy would surely enjoy this book. I find the book underrated on Goodreads and Amazon, but trust me if you're into historical fiction, then do read it, you won't regret it.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨(𝟒.𝟓/𝟓)
November 17, 2023
I got this as a free audio book and since I enjoy history decided to make this my next "listen." What a rousing, exciting and enthralling tale of adventure set in medieval England in 1066 just after the Battle of Hastings. And, it was made ever so much more in the "telling" by the talented narrator whose deep voice made all the characters - Frankish, Danish, Viking, Saxon - come alive. We meet Styrkar the Dane as he rises from the battlefield of Senlac Hill having been felled, or so it would seem. He is there having served Harold Godwinson who has now been defeated by the men of William the Conqueror. Styrkar is out for revenge against the man whom he served and who gave him a recognition none other in his life had. In setting out to avenge Harold, a man he considers the rightful king, he acquires a fearsome reputation as the Red Wolf. His journey results in Styrkar aligning himself with some unlikeable sorts, being betrayed and battered and then harried by a Frank, Rowan, who disdains all Saxons but none more so Styrkar. In his journey of vengeance Styrkar soon comes to realize that this is an unworthy and maybe unrealistic desire, especially as it continues his fealty to lords and kings, never making a man in his own true right. This is the first book in a three-part series, so naturally it ends with one needing to know what will happen to Styrkar in the next book, Shield Breaker (and I will certainly have to find out alas!)
Read
April 20, 2022Oath Bound is the fantastic first installment in a new series. The writing and pacing quickly pull you into the story, and keep you immersed throughout - although my one complaint for the entire book was that there were places where it felt as though the progression was a little too rushed, making some bits feel a little choppy. Not enough to pull me out of the flow of the story, but noticeable. However, the plot was well-written and gripping, and the characterization was spot on, especially with Styrkar - and even with the action and blood, time was taken to explore the character's doubts and struggles, and the development felt believable and natural in the situations. This care with the characters' internal conflicts, as well as the external conflict is evident throughout and from the main characters down to the minor ones, and made for incredibly compulsive reading. The ending struck a great note in terms of atmosphere and emotion, with enough to leave you wanting more and I will eagerly be awaiting the next book in this series.
July 17, 2024
A good bit of action!
Oath Bound is an action packed historical fiction book that keeps you fairly pulled in to the end.
I enjoyed the action in the story and the ending was quite gripping as it set itself up nicely for book 2, leading on a cliff hanger that you just know will be packed full of action too.
I did however find the story a bit difficult to get into, and the characters were a little bit monotonous, with the story taking a long time to get anywhere interesting until the latter half of the book.
Overall, it's not a bad read but not one that will stick in my memory too strongly.
Oath Bound is an action packed historical fiction book that keeps you fairly pulled in to the end.
I enjoyed the action in the story and the ending was quite gripping as it set itself up nicely for book 2, leading on a cliff hanger that you just know will be packed full of action too.
I did however find the story a bit difficult to get into, and the characters were a little bit monotonous, with the story taking a long time to get anywhere interesting until the latter half of the book.
Overall, it's not a bad read but not one that will stick in my memory too strongly.
February 21, 2023
A lot of action
Non-stop action from beginning to end. I wasn’t sure at first whether I’d like Styrkar, his lust for revenge and death seems to take over his entire character. But gradually he starts to show a more honourable side to his nature and when he meets Gisela a much gentler man starts to emerge. I quite liked the fact that the end of the book wasn’t the end of Styrkar’s story and I look forward to reading the next book.
Non-stop action from beginning to end. I wasn’t sure at first whether I’d like Styrkar, his lust for revenge and death seems to take over his entire character. But gradually he starts to show a more honourable side to his nature and when he meets Gisela a much gentler man starts to emerge. I quite liked the fact that the end of the book wasn’t the end of Styrkar’s story and I look forward to reading the next book.
September 30, 2025
This is a quality story my first read of this Author's work but it will certainly not be the last, I will be starting book two of this series soon. Well written totally engaging from first to last page with a real feel of time and place with superb characters throughout and more than enough action for any reader, and quite gruesome at times.
Completely and utterly recommended.
Completely and utterly recommended.
October 9, 2022
Interesting reading,
The author did a good job bringing the history of England's beginning to light. Didn't use descriptive sex scenes to muddy the reasons that the various principles motives.
The author did a good job bringing the history of England's beginning to light. Didn't use descriptive sex scenes to muddy the reasons that the various principles motives.
October 10, 2022
Kind of a Fun Read
Although I generally am not interested in reading about midevil era, I decided to give it a try. Overall, the story was enjoyable with its hardcore killings and destroying homes, etc.; I especially detest the lack of an ending!
Although I generally am not interested in reading about midevil era, I decided to give it a try. Overall, the story was enjoyable with its hardcore killings and destroying homes, etc.; I especially detest the lack of an ending!
July 7, 2023
Very enjoyable read
Plenty of books from this period in our history and in my opinion this will not disappoint. Well known characters plus a few unknown to me . Thoroughly enjoyed the book and going to start the next in the series .
Plenty of books from this period in our history and in my opinion this will not disappoint. Well known characters plus a few unknown to me . Thoroughly enjoyed the book and going to start the next in the series .
April 30, 2024
Good historical fiction
Liked the story of the red wolf and how it follows his journey. The ups and downs and how he sees things differently. A good book in all respects well written. Well done Richard thank you.
Liked the story of the red wolf and how it follows his journey. The ups and downs and how he sees things differently. A good book in all respects well written. Well done Richard thank you.
March 20, 2023
Good 1st instalment
Enjoyable read .
Worth the time & although no Bernard Cornwell yet … interesting to see how the tale will unfold !
Ta .
Enjoyable read .
Worth the time & although no Bernard Cornwell yet … interesting to see how the tale will unfold !
Ta .
July 27, 2023
Enjoyable historical story
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews