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The Wolf of Kings
Shield Breaker
Styrkar the warrior sails to dangerous lands in this thrilling new historical adventure from Richard Cullen. The sequel to Oath Bound , longlisted for the Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize 2022.
England, 1068: a land gripped in the iron fist of Frankish invaders. But the Conqueror does not sit easily on his fledgling throne. Rebellion is rife, and the flames of uprising have been ignited in every corner of the kingdom.
Thrown back into this crucible is Styrkar the Dane, former housecarl of the slain King Harold. Forced to travel to Ireland by his deadliest enemy, he must risk the fates of his brothers-in-arms in order to protect the one thing he loves.
So begins a journey that will take Styrkar to the royal court of Dublin, and the frigid climes of the north of England, for loyalty, love and vengeance. He will be tested, beaten and broken, but can any man keep the Red Wolf chained for long?
Reviews for Richard
'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. Styrkar is a great heroic creation, and the Wolf of Kings series places Cullen in the top tier of historical action and adventure authors' Matthew Harffy
'Fast-paced and enthralling, the tale of Styrkar the Dane, the Red Wolf, [is] a brutal yet compelling tale, and one that gripped me from the first page to the last' Paul Fraser Collard
'A perfect example of tight, gritty, character-driven storytelling' Luke Scull, on Herald of the Storm
England, 1068: a land gripped in the iron fist of Frankish invaders. But the Conqueror does not sit easily on his fledgling throne. Rebellion is rife, and the flames of uprising have been ignited in every corner of the kingdom.
Thrown back into this crucible is Styrkar the Dane, former housecarl of the slain King Harold. Forced to travel to Ireland by his deadliest enemy, he must risk the fates of his brothers-in-arms in order to protect the one thing he loves.
So begins a journey that will take Styrkar to the royal court of Dublin, and the frigid climes of the north of England, for loyalty, love and vengeance. He will be tested, beaten and broken, but can any man keep the Red Wolf chained for long?
Reviews for Richard
'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. Styrkar is a great heroic creation, and the Wolf of Kings series places Cullen in the top tier of historical action and adventure authors' Matthew Harffy
'Fast-paced and enthralling, the tale of Styrkar the Dane, the Red Wolf, [is] a brutal yet compelling tale, and one that gripped me from the first page to the last' Paul Fraser Collard
'A perfect example of tight, gritty, character-driven storytelling' Luke Scull, on Herald of the Storm
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2022
81 people are currently reading
92 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 - 22 of 22 reviews
September 24, 2023
Bloody Mayhem!
This was the continuing tale of a Danish warrior, Styrkar - the Red Wolf, who fought for King Harold at Hastings against the Norman army of William the Conqueror. During my school days I was taught that the Saxon defeat at Hastings was the end of the matter and that the Norman conquest was all but secured. It would appear that that was not the case and that bloody rebellion erupted throughout England for many years after. The final end was never in doubt however. This story centred upon one man's vicious fight, against all the odds, to remove the hated Frankish overlords. Styrkar was not a likeable hero, he was a vicious, murdering thug who killed everyone in his path, be they (former) friend or foe. This is not a story for the faint hearted, no good guys, only people doing what was necessary to survive in a world of blood and death. No happy endings but a thrilling story nonetheless.
This was the continuing tale of a Danish warrior, Styrkar - the Red Wolf, who fought for King Harold at Hastings against the Norman army of William the Conqueror. During my school days I was taught that the Saxon defeat at Hastings was the end of the matter and that the Norman conquest was all but secured. It would appear that that was not the case and that bloody rebellion erupted throughout England for many years after. The final end was never in doubt however. This story centred upon one man's vicious fight, against all the odds, to remove the hated Frankish overlords. Styrkar was not a likeable hero, he was a vicious, murdering thug who killed everyone in his path, be they (former) friend or foe. This is not a story for the faint hearted, no good guys, only people doing what was necessary to survive in a world of blood and death. No happy endings but a thrilling story nonetheless.
February 10, 2023
Richard Cullen does it again with this fantastic sequel to Oath Bound! These books work well as standalones too though, so don’t feel like you have to read the previous entry to enjoy Shield Breaker.
Fantastic Characters
Stykar is a stand out for me. He’s complex, with an inner conflict that is engaging and motivations that are one hundred percent understandable. His story is bloody and exciting as always, so I had a lot of fun following him!
There are other well crafted characters too, with interesting relationships and arcs. Edgar, for example, has an interesting plot!
Best Fight Scenes in Fiction
If you want to sink your teeth into some gritty, vivid battle scenes, read this book! Stykar’s axe is bloody and unforgiving.
There isn’t glorification of this violence though. Instead the scenes of battle are loud, claustrophobic, terrifying. The atmosphere in these scenes is masterfully done; I felt on edge throughout.
Final Thoughts
If you like historical fiction, just read this book. Don’t hesitate - just pick it up! I’d also recommend this to fantasy readers because these books are epic, brutal, and will not let you go.
Blog | Patreon | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Fantastic Characters
Stykar is a stand out for me. He’s complex, with an inner conflict that is engaging and motivations that are one hundred percent understandable. His story is bloody and exciting as always, so I had a lot of fun following him!
There are other well crafted characters too, with interesting relationships and arcs. Edgar, for example, has an interesting plot!
Best Fight Scenes in Fiction
If you want to sink your teeth into some gritty, vivid battle scenes, read this book! Stykar’s axe is bloody and unforgiving.
There isn’t glorification of this violence though. Instead the scenes of battle are loud, claustrophobic, terrifying. The atmosphere in these scenes is masterfully done; I felt on edge throughout.
Final Thoughts
If you like historical fiction, just read this book. Don’t hesitate - just pick it up! I’d also recommend this to fantasy readers because these books are epic, brutal, and will not let you go.
Blog | Patreon | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
April 17, 2023
‘𝙄 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝙥𝙪𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜. 𝙉𝙤𝙬 𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙖𝙡𝙡.’
⚔️The book - 2nd in The Wolf of Kings series - set on the backdrop of the Norman Conquest of Britain, tells the story of a Danish warrior Styrkar, once housecarl of King Harold now a fugitive outlaw, the Red Wolf.
‘𝘿𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚? 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙙 𝙒𝙤𝙡𝙛. 𝙎𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙙 𝘽𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙧. 𝘽𝙖𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙁𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙤𝙤𝙢.’
England.1068 AD William, the Conqueror sits on England's throne, but the kingdom is rife with rebellion and the flames of the uprising are burning in every corner. Amidst this chaos, to save his love Styrkar the Dane is compelled to travel to Ireland to his long lost friends, the Haroldson brothers, only to stab them in the back, while Ronan, the Breton knight who had sent Styrkar, is roaming the land stamping the fire of rebellions against the Conqueror had hostage Styrkar's love, Gisela.
⚔️Richard's writing is as sharp as the blade wielded by Styrkar. He had plotted an absolutely compelling tale, filled with adventure, betrayals, actions, and redemption that gripped me from the first page to the last. The multiple narratives were enthralling, the spacing was fast and the fighting scenes are topnotch.
⚔️But the strong point of this book is its characters, perfectly crafted and meticulously developed. Styrkar's guilt of betraying the sons of his former master; Ronan's transformation from being a sadist to an empath, and Gisela's struggle to trust her captor for her and her unborn child's survival are what make me rooted in them.
⚔️The ending was quite unexpected and heart-wrenching. I admit I didn't see it coming, but it also set the stage for the next book, another nerve-wrenching adventure of Stryker for which I'm eagerly excited.
Overall, Shield Breaker was a wonderful read. If you're into historical fiction and character-driven stories then this book is for you. Fans of Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy surely gonna love it. Highly recommended.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)
⚔️The book - 2nd in The Wolf of Kings series - set on the backdrop of the Norman Conquest of Britain, tells the story of a Danish warrior Styrkar, once housecarl of King Harold now a fugitive outlaw, the Red Wolf.
‘𝘿𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚? 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙙 𝙒𝙤𝙡𝙛. 𝙎𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙙 𝘽𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙧. 𝘽𝙖𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙁𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙤𝙤𝙢.’
England.1068 AD William, the Conqueror sits on England's throne, but the kingdom is rife with rebellion and the flames of the uprising are burning in every corner. Amidst this chaos, to save his love Styrkar the Dane is compelled to travel to Ireland to his long lost friends, the Haroldson brothers, only to stab them in the back, while Ronan, the Breton knight who had sent Styrkar, is roaming the land stamping the fire of rebellions against the Conqueror had hostage Styrkar's love, Gisela.
⚔️Richard's writing is as sharp as the blade wielded by Styrkar. He had plotted an absolutely compelling tale, filled with adventure, betrayals, actions, and redemption that gripped me from the first page to the last. The multiple narratives were enthralling, the spacing was fast and the fighting scenes are topnotch.
⚔️But the strong point of this book is its characters, perfectly crafted and meticulously developed. Styrkar's guilt of betraying the sons of his former master; Ronan's transformation from being a sadist to an empath, and Gisela's struggle to trust her captor for her and her unborn child's survival are what make me rooted in them.
⚔️The ending was quite unexpected and heart-wrenching. I admit I didn't see it coming, but it also set the stage for the next book, another nerve-wrenching adventure of Stryker for which I'm eagerly excited.
Overall, Shield Breaker was a wonderful read. If you're into historical fiction and character-driven stories then this book is for you. Fans of Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy surely gonna love it. Highly recommended.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)
October 11, 2022
awesome
Such a great series. This is historical fiction at its finest. Absolutely gripping and action packed. Ford/Cullen has now crafted three of my personal favourite series. The other two fantasy…Steelhaven (can’t say enough about it!) and Engines of Empire.
Such a great series. This is historical fiction at its finest. Absolutely gripping and action packed. Ford/Cullen has now crafted three of my personal favourite series. The other two fantasy…Steelhaven (can’t say enough about it!) and Engines of Empire.
July 29, 2022
Shield Breaker reunites us with our protagonist Styrkar, but it should be noted that even though we pick up with this familiar character, it is not entirely necessary to have read Oath Bound first. Both books work well as a stand-alone, although you absolutely should pick up both of them, and there is definitely a benefit to following Styrkar from the first book.
One of the most impressive aspects of this series, is how it takes a well-known period of English History but looks at it through a different lens, not just in the sense of how well it balances history and story. Instead, here we have the aftermath of William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, and rather than the almost ‘legendary’ status that conquest has taken in media at times, and even in the history we learn in school, Shield Breaker peeks beneath the hood. It looks at the reality of life in the wake of a conquest, across the strata of society, from those who saw the Normans as little more than invaders, to the ordinary people just trying to continue their life as peacefully as possible, to those in between, and Cullen does an excellent job of highlighting that variety of viewpoints and experiences. The history aspect is well-written and researched, and provides a rich, multi-faceted backdrop, to what is an incredibly personal and human story playing out against conflict, resistance and brutality of the time, and creating a fantastically immersive experience.
The human aspect is incredibly well done, and the characterisation which was one of the strongest elements of Oath Bound, feels even more developed here. Cullen has a fantastic grasp of how the characters wrestle with their situations and doubts, and the development continues to feel believable and organic, both on a personal level and for the relationships between the characters.
Styrkar is our primary gateway into the human aspect of this story, and he makes for a fascinating protagonist (especially if you are coming to this one having read Oath Bound), as on the one hand he is the ‘Red Wolf’, an almost legendary warrior in his own right, but also a man caught up in the situation around him, and one who must balance loyalty and duty, along a knife edge, as everything he holds dear is on the line here. He is an incredibly dynamic and realistic character, and Cullen allows us to play through his emotions and the sides of himself that the situation demands. Ronan is another great character, and it feels almost as though he has the most potential of the characters, as it is not entirely clear where his arc will end. The two of them make for interesting mirrors of one another, with Gisela acting as the lynch-pin between them, and it felt as though she came far more into her own in this book, and it was interesting seeing her experiences against the women alongside her. .
Cullen’s writing also really shines in the action scenes in this book. Again, we see that balance of historical knowledge and research, and a fantastic instinct for creating a gripping story. There is an almost cinematic feel to the battle scenes, and Cullen manages to capture both the motion and emotions of those scenes, making them incredibly compelling without becoming too bogged down in the details. This paired with the characterisation really conjures up a feeling of danger for the characters, as well as an investment in the outcome of what they are facing.
Shield Breaker is another excellent addition to this series, and Cullen once again nails that balance of history and story, and the few issues that I’d had with the first book have disappeared here. The flow of the story was much smoother this time, and I was thoroughly engrossed from start to finish. Compelling characters, fantastic action, and a gripping look at history in a way that we rarely get to see, make this book one I have to recommend to anyone looking for a new historical fiction series to dive into.
One of the most impressive aspects of this series, is how it takes a well-known period of English History but looks at it through a different lens, not just in the sense of how well it balances history and story. Instead, here we have the aftermath of William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, and rather than the almost ‘legendary’ status that conquest has taken in media at times, and even in the history we learn in school, Shield Breaker peeks beneath the hood. It looks at the reality of life in the wake of a conquest, across the strata of society, from those who saw the Normans as little more than invaders, to the ordinary people just trying to continue their life as peacefully as possible, to those in between, and Cullen does an excellent job of highlighting that variety of viewpoints and experiences. The history aspect is well-written and researched, and provides a rich, multi-faceted backdrop, to what is an incredibly personal and human story playing out against conflict, resistance and brutality of the time, and creating a fantastically immersive experience.
The human aspect is incredibly well done, and the characterisation which was one of the strongest elements of Oath Bound, feels even more developed here. Cullen has a fantastic grasp of how the characters wrestle with their situations and doubts, and the development continues to feel believable and organic, both on a personal level and for the relationships between the characters.
Styrkar is our primary gateway into the human aspect of this story, and he makes for a fascinating protagonist (especially if you are coming to this one having read Oath Bound), as on the one hand he is the ‘Red Wolf’, an almost legendary warrior in his own right, but also a man caught up in the situation around him, and one who must balance loyalty and duty, along a knife edge, as everything he holds dear is on the line here. He is an incredibly dynamic and realistic character, and Cullen allows us to play through his emotions and the sides of himself that the situation demands. Ronan is another great character, and it feels almost as though he has the most potential of the characters, as it is not entirely clear where his arc will end. The two of them make for interesting mirrors of one another, with Gisela acting as the lynch-pin between them, and it felt as though she came far more into her own in this book, and it was interesting seeing her experiences against the women alongside her. .
Cullen’s writing also really shines in the action scenes in this book. Again, we see that balance of historical knowledge and research, and a fantastic instinct for creating a gripping story. There is an almost cinematic feel to the battle scenes, and Cullen manages to capture both the motion and emotions of those scenes, making them incredibly compelling without becoming too bogged down in the details. This paired with the characterisation really conjures up a feeling of danger for the characters, as well as an investment in the outcome of what they are facing.
Shield Breaker is another excellent addition to this series, and Cullen once again nails that balance of history and story, and the few issues that I’d had with the first book have disappeared here. The flow of the story was much smoother this time, and I was thoroughly engrossed from start to finish. Compelling characters, fantastic action, and a gripping look at history in a way that we rarely get to see, make this book one I have to recommend to anyone looking for a new historical fiction series to dive into.
July 13, 2022
Shield Breaker is a novel of epic historical conflicts and provides a backdrop to an area of English History that isn’t normally shown in the popular media. The legend of William the Conqueror and his army defeating Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 is etched in English History as a mythical and historical context. What Richard has done here is to show the reality of William’s conquests in England, and how the Normans were seen as the invaders by the elites. But to the ordinary Saxon peasant? As long as he or she managed to live their life peacefully, they didn’t care too much. But that’s not a snapshot of every single viewpoint of every Saxon. Some resisted and fought the Normans to the bitter end, perhaps fleeing to Wales or Scotland. Others went to the Byzantine Empire to serve in the Varangian Guard where they would fight against Robert, the Norman Duke of Sicily, and exact revenge.
I would say that this is a backdrop to how the Kingdom of England that we know today was formed. William was a legendary King, but he was brutal and his army massacred many thousands of innocent souls, but of course, this was the Medieval period, or perhaps the beginning. Moving aside the history for a moment, we witness the Red Wolf, once a great warrior in Harold’s army now fighting for his chance to be reunited with his unborn child and lover, Gisela. And then in comes Ronan, and what starts is an epic journey of a roller-coaster of emotions; love, tragedy, hate, war, and ruin. Without spoiling too much, we get to witness just how weak the Saxon resistance became once the Normans, or the Franks in a way, began their consolidation of rule in England.
It’s an excellent story written with great prose, great action battle scenes, and completely well done. I felt completely immersed in the time period, and not a lot in my opinion is known about it. I feel if a TV show adaptation was made out of this, it would do supremely well. 10/10 and well done to Head of Zeus for publishing a great book!
I would say that this is a backdrop to how the Kingdom of England that we know today was formed. William was a legendary King, but he was brutal and his army massacred many thousands of innocent souls, but of course, this was the Medieval period, or perhaps the beginning. Moving aside the history for a moment, we witness the Red Wolf, once a great warrior in Harold’s army now fighting for his chance to be reunited with his unborn child and lover, Gisela. And then in comes Ronan, and what starts is an epic journey of a roller-coaster of emotions; love, tragedy, hate, war, and ruin. Without spoiling too much, we get to witness just how weak the Saxon resistance became once the Normans, or the Franks in a way, began their consolidation of rule in England.
It’s an excellent story written with great prose, great action battle scenes, and completely well done. I felt completely immersed in the time period, and not a lot in my opinion is known about it. I feel if a TV show adaptation was made out of this, it would do supremely well. 10/10 and well done to Head of Zeus for publishing a great book!
July 29, 2022
Shieldbreaker is the sequel to Oath Bound, I was a little worried I may miss out by not reading the first one prior to this but I can honestly say this is brilliant on its own although after reading this I'll certainly be going back to the first one.
Shieldbreaker starts in Ireland with Styrkar feeling mixed emotions about betraying the boys he has come to think of as his brothers but has no alternative, the love of his life, Gisela, is being held prisoner.
Over in England, William the Conqueror and his men are busy putting down rebellions. This includes Ronan, the man who holds Gisela hostage. Gisela is a determined woman who through her will and actions improves her own conditions but is it enough?
Styrkar is a brilliant character and the book is full of battles, betrayal and loyalty.
The battle scenes are fantastic, you can almost hear the clash of Styrkar's axe as the he let's the Red Wolf out to fight.
I also really liked the development in the relationship between Ronan and Gisela, I wasn't expecting it to develop in the way it did.
Edgar was a favourite of mine too, particularly in his actions towards Styrkar.
If you are looking for something that keeps you turning the pages, has incredible battle scenes and descriptives and will leave you waiting for more when you finish then this is for you.
Shieldbreaker starts in Ireland with Styrkar feeling mixed emotions about betraying the boys he has come to think of as his brothers but has no alternative, the love of his life, Gisela, is being held prisoner.
Over in England, William the Conqueror and his men are busy putting down rebellions. This includes Ronan, the man who holds Gisela hostage. Gisela is a determined woman who through her will and actions improves her own conditions but is it enough?
Styrkar is a brilliant character and the book is full of battles, betrayal and loyalty.
The battle scenes are fantastic, you can almost hear the clash of Styrkar's axe as the he let's the Red Wolf out to fight.
I also really liked the development in the relationship between Ronan and Gisela, I wasn't expecting it to develop in the way it did.
Edgar was a favourite of mine too, particularly in his actions towards Styrkar.
If you are looking for something that keeps you turning the pages, has incredible battle scenes and descriptives and will leave you waiting for more when you finish then this is for you.
December 27, 2023
Great book
I'm so happy I found this author. This is my kind of book. Every page is meaningful, the story is fluid, the characters are likable, even the evil ones, the author makes you see thru their eyes, you know it's wrong but you can understand. I hated Ronan and wanted so bad to be punished, but I sympathized with him sometimes. The main character is such a beast, but a lovable beast, I think Jason Momoa could be the perfect actor if you make a movie. There are no page fillers like other books. It's not rushed, it's just a perfect entertainment. Book one is the same. I will give this book a whole five stars. Loved it.
I'm so happy I found this author. This is my kind of book. Every page is meaningful, the story is fluid, the characters are likable, even the evil ones, the author makes you see thru their eyes, you know it's wrong but you can understand. I hated Ronan and wanted so bad to be punished, but I sympathized with him sometimes. The main character is such a beast, but a lovable beast, I think Jason Momoa could be the perfect actor if you make a movie. There are no page fillers like other books. It's not rushed, it's just a perfect entertainment. Book one is the same. I will give this book a whole five stars. Loved it.
October 23, 2022
Another excellent book Shield Breaker is a novel of epic historical conflicts and provides a backdrop to an area of English History that isn’t normally shown in the popular media. Definitely a page Turner from the start to the last page one of the best fiction history series i have read. Looking forward to more books by this author.
February 28, 2023
A very good read.😎
Hard times in those days.This storyline has been written well,I have read the first novel in this series and found this second book every bit as good, rough and tuff,hardy characters plenty of action,the weather not good either.😎😎
Hard times in those days.This storyline has been written well,I have read the first novel in this series and found this second book every bit as good, rough and tuff,hardy characters plenty of action,the weather not good either.😎😎
May 8, 2023
Another masterpiece
These are books you can't put down. Can't wait for the next one. There's a great mixture of emotions and warfare.
These are books you can't put down. Can't wait for the next one. There's a great mixture of emotions and warfare.
April 10, 2023
Fantastic!
I also read the first book of this series and both are brilliant. Great story-telling, realistic battle scenes and non-stop action make both these books a fantastic and satisfying read. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to be released!
I also read the first book of this series and both are brilliant. Great story-telling, realistic battle scenes and non-stop action make both these books a fantastic and satisfying read. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to be released!
August 4, 2022
The second book in The Wolf of King’s series and this time our hero; Styrkar is back for another blood-thirsty and exciting adventure. If you haven’t read the first in this thrilling series, then do go and grab a copy of Oath Bound, you don’t need to read these books in order as they are pretty much stand-alone, but I definetly recommend them you meet Styrkar from the beginning.
This time Styrkar is leaving Yorkshire and crosses the water to Ireland, he is once again thrown head first into a war, not of his making, but being the ‘Red Wolf’ the legendary warrior he takes everything in his stride, but this time is different as he has something to lose if all goes badly, his love and unborn babe and he will do anything within (and beyond) his ability to keep them safe, his driving force is them.
As with the previous book in the series; Sheild Breaker impressively entwines history with a gripping and engaging story, the characters once again hold all of your attention you can’t but like Styrkar he is a dynamic, loyal and highly interesting man, one I can’t wait to get to know more of as this series progresses and his love; Gisela is a wonderful calmness to his storm, and she is such an integral part of the story.
The fight scenes are brilliant they are brutal, grizzly, bloody-thirsty, you the writing is so descriptive and compelling that you feel the thundering of the horse’s hooves, the clanging and crashing of steel on steel. You get a real sense of the horror, the fear and the violence that the characters feel as they face their enemy, the blood and anger rushing through their veins as they braise themselves for battle.
I thoroughly enjoyed the previous book in the series; Oath Bound, it was completely different to what I usually picked up but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it and was looking forward to reading the next in the series and this was well worth the wait, In fact, I think I prefer this one to Oath Bound and I am really looking forward to reading more from this series and this author.
This time Styrkar is leaving Yorkshire and crosses the water to Ireland, he is once again thrown head first into a war, not of his making, but being the ‘Red Wolf’ the legendary warrior he takes everything in his stride, but this time is different as he has something to lose if all goes badly, his love and unborn babe and he will do anything within (and beyond) his ability to keep them safe, his driving force is them.
As with the previous book in the series; Sheild Breaker impressively entwines history with a gripping and engaging story, the characters once again hold all of your attention you can’t but like Styrkar he is a dynamic, loyal and highly interesting man, one I can’t wait to get to know more of as this series progresses and his love; Gisela is a wonderful calmness to his storm, and she is such an integral part of the story.
The fight scenes are brilliant they are brutal, grizzly, bloody-thirsty, you the writing is so descriptive and compelling that you feel the thundering of the horse’s hooves, the clanging and crashing of steel on steel. You get a real sense of the horror, the fear and the violence that the characters feel as they face their enemy, the blood and anger rushing through their veins as they braise themselves for battle.
I thoroughly enjoyed the previous book in the series; Oath Bound, it was completely different to what I usually picked up but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it and was looking forward to reading the next in the series and this was well worth the wait, In fact, I think I prefer this one to Oath Bound and I am really looking forward to reading more from this series and this author.
March 24, 2023
4.5/5 stars
I received an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Better late than never.
I read Oath Bound just as a random read. I wanted something epic without diving into a dense fantasy novel. That's exactly what I got. I loved Stykar's story. I was intrigued to know what happened next.
I still have my doubts about the romance that took place in the first book...it gave me insta-love vibes and I do not do insta-love. So, I have to put that thought out of my mind while reading the sequel. It just seemed very illogical that these two people are so hung up on each other based on him saving her a couple of times and the short time they were together. I don't get it. However, the second book, after putting that out of my mind, showed a very endearing story back and forth between the two of their points of view.
Everything else is pretty much on par with the first book. There's plenty of action, multiple points of view from both sides of the war, and plenty of introspection that provides the level of character focus I enjoy. If you liked the first one, the second one won't disappoint unless you're hoping for something different than the first.
I did like the plot progression in Shield Breaker. With the characters down, the atmosphere set, we get much more into the plot than before. I did feel like the political machinations took a back seat in this one, however.
Overall, I wasn't disappointed, which is great, but I also didn't get much more than I did in the first one. I am still intrigued enough to want to see where the story goes. I want to know if Stykar will survive the end, if he'll finally lay his axe down for a quieter life, and if he will decide to find this new littlest character. I'm excited to see if we get more on that.
I received an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Better late than never.
I read Oath Bound just as a random read. I wanted something epic without diving into a dense fantasy novel. That's exactly what I got. I loved Stykar's story. I was intrigued to know what happened next.
I still have my doubts about the romance that took place in the first book...it gave me insta-love vibes and I do not do insta-love. So, I have to put that thought out of my mind while reading the sequel. It just seemed very illogical that these two people are so hung up on each other based on him saving her a couple of times and the short time they were together. I don't get it. However, the second book, after putting that out of my mind, showed a very endearing story back and forth between the two of their points of view.
Everything else is pretty much on par with the first book. There's plenty of action, multiple points of view from both sides of the war, and plenty of introspection that provides the level of character focus I enjoy. If you liked the first one, the second one won't disappoint unless you're hoping for something different than the first.
I did like the plot progression in Shield Breaker. With the characters down, the atmosphere set, we get much more into the plot than before. I did feel like the political machinations took a back seat in this one, however.
Overall, I wasn't disappointed, which is great, but I also didn't get much more than I did in the first one. I am still intrigued enough to want to see where the story goes. I want to know if Stykar will survive the end, if he'll finally lay his axe down for a quieter life, and if he will decide to find this new littlest character. I'm excited to see if we get more on that.
October 19, 2022
Really looking forward to the 3rd in this series.
While not quite as good as the first tome in this series this is a really good read with a lot of action, heroic hero’s and despicable bad guys.
So what happens when someone invades your homeland? You fight that’s what happens - you fight, you get knocked down and you fight again….
Along the way you lose friends and enemies but the fight remains the same.
This part of the story is about the desire of these people - the locals who want their homes back and the invaders who want this land for themselves. In the middle are the long suffering people who just struggle to make a life for themselves.
Good read this and a good story well told.
While not quite as good as the first tome in this series this is a really good read with a lot of action, heroic hero’s and despicable bad guys.
So what happens when someone invades your homeland? You fight that’s what happens - you fight, you get knocked down and you fight again….
Along the way you lose friends and enemies but the fight remains the same.
This part of the story is about the desire of these people - the locals who want their homes back and the invaders who want this land for themselves. In the middle are the long suffering people who just struggle to make a life for themselves.
Good read this and a good story well told.
January 28, 2023
series
I like this series except for the filthy language. Is that really important? Geesh, come on people. I read a series, 3 books before this and not one bad word. I gave it a five star
I like this series except for the filthy language. Is that really important? Geesh, come on people. I read a series, 3 books before this and not one bad word. I gave it a five star
January 28, 2023
It was good but the low stars is for the stupid filthy language in it. Not good to me
May 19, 2023
Good read
After getting to the end I realise their must be another Nick to look forward to later so I wait with baited breath .
After getting to the end I realise their must be another Nick to look forward to later so I wait with baited breath .
July 9, 2023
Disappointing
A shadow of other authors of the same period
Limited battle reference and unrealistic timeline
Will look elsewhere for such historical fiction
A shadow of other authors of the same period
Limited battle reference and unrealistic timeline
Will look elsewhere for such historical fiction
September 30, 2023
Shield breaker
Excellent action packed story with a great hero leading the way.Would highly recommend this book. If you like action then this is for you
Excellent action packed story with a great hero leading the way.Would highly recommend this book. If you like action then this is for you
July 13, 2025
solid 4.5
Richard's writing improves as the story progresses.
I like it
Richard's writing improves as the story progresses.
I like it
July 1, 2023
The second book in The Wolf of King’s series and this time our hero; Styrkar is back for another blood-thirsty and exciting adventure. If you haven’t read the first in this thrilling series, then do go and grab a copy of Oath Bound, you don’t need to read these books in order as they are pretty much stand-alone, but I definetly recommend them you meet Styrkar from the beginning.
This time Styrkar is leaving Yorkshire and crosses the water to Ireland, he is once again thrown head first into a war, not of his making, but being the ‘Red Wolf’ the legendary warrior he takes everything in his stride, but this time is different as he has something to lose if all goes badly, his love and unborn babe and he will do anything within (and beyond) his ability to keep them safe, his driving force is them.
As with the previous book in the series; Sheild Breaker impressively entwines history with a gripping and engaging story, the characters once again hold all of your attention you can’t but like Styrkar he is a dynamic, loyal and highly interesting man, one I can’t wait to get to know more of as this series progresses and his love; Gisela is a wonderful calmness to his storm, and she is such an integral part of the story.
The fight scenes are brilliant they are brutal, grizzly, bloody-thirsty, you the writing is so descriptive and compelling that you feel the thundering of the horse’s hooves, the clanging and crashing of steel on steel. You get a real sense of the horror, the fear and the violence that the characters feel as they face their enemy, the blood and anger rushing through their veins as they braise themselves for battle.
I thoroughly enjoyed the previous book in the series; Oath Bound, it was completely different to what I usually picked up but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it and was looking forward to reading the next in the series and this was well worth the wait, In fact, I think I prefer this one to Oath Bound and I am really looking forward to reading more from this series and this author.
This time Styrkar is leaving Yorkshire and crosses the water to Ireland, he is once again thrown head first into a war, not of his making, but being the ‘Red Wolf’ the legendary warrior he takes everything in his stride, but this time is different as he has something to lose if all goes badly, his love and unborn babe and he will do anything within (and beyond) his ability to keep them safe, his driving force is them.
As with the previous book in the series; Sheild Breaker impressively entwines history with a gripping and engaging story, the characters once again hold all of your attention you can’t but like Styrkar he is a dynamic, loyal and highly interesting man, one I can’t wait to get to know more of as this series progresses and his love; Gisela is a wonderful calmness to his storm, and she is such an integral part of the story.
The fight scenes are brilliant they are brutal, grizzly, bloody-thirsty, you the writing is so descriptive and compelling that you feel the thundering of the horse’s hooves, the clanging and crashing of steel on steel. You get a real sense of the horror, the fear and the violence that the characters feel as they face their enemy, the blood and anger rushing through their veins as they braise themselves for battle.
I thoroughly enjoyed the previous book in the series; Oath Bound, it was completely different to what I usually picked up but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it and was looking forward to reading the next in the series and this was well worth the wait, In fact, I think I prefer this one to Oath Bound and I am really looking forward to reading more from this series and this author.
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