This is the first in a swerve of historical novels by author Richard
Dunning, and is set in the fourth century. The Angles have only been in
Britannia for a short time, and must fight to maintain their foothold.
When Cerdic begins to narrate the story, he is a young lad. He has just
become old enough to learn the trade of a warrior. Along with his
friends Eduard and Cuthbert he becomes skilled at weaponry. And against
the rules, he trains a slave his age, Aedann, in the same skills. It
is while training with members of the community that Cerdic learns that
he has a half brother, who hates his guts.
Cerdic's youth comes to an end when he is forced to fight to protect his
family and land. Enemies from the west have raided, and Cerdic's
brother was killed in the action and his sister taken away. Also taken
was his mother's prized amber jewelry. Cerdic vows vengeance.
Despite setbacks, the Angles prepare to fight a mighty army that could
thrust them into the sea. A great battle ensues northwest of modern
day York, which would establish the future of the English.
An excellent historical novel set in an area my own ancestors came from.
As I read it, I was imagining the modern day settings of the places
named in the novel. Travel now is much faster by car than it was 1 500
years ago when warriors had to walk. A thoroughly enjoyable read that
went by too quickly. I am looking forward to reading the next in the
series: Child of Loki.
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