The Flame Bearer

The 10th novel in Bernard Cornwall’s ‘Last Kingdom’ series. The story continues in the reign of King Edward (Alfred the Great’s son) and the Saxon’s now control much of England. There is a truce between the Saxons and the Vikings, so our hero Uhtred, decides he will attempt to retake Bebbanburg, the family estate that was stolen from him by his Uncle when he was a boy. As with the rest of the series, this is a highly entertaining book, that moves at a fast pace with lots of action. A lot less focus on historic fact in this novel. This is due to the need to concentrate on our fictional hero’s ambitions. However, this does not detract from yet another excellent book from a master storyteller. Another great read.

Mr Cornwell produces these books regularly now. All good enough, written in the same style, alas, almost too predictable now. Am beginning to get to the stage of wishing Uhtred would re-gain Bamburgh Castle, or die in the attempt. However, BC has partly prepared us for this eventuality perhaps in having an adult son, Uhtred, firmly in the picture, and already a competent, courageous warrior. Having read the entire series, will move on to the next sequel, but at the same time hoping it comes to a conclusion before long. Ideal reading for a long-haul flight.

These books are all ripping yarns. Good old fashioned historical novels that have been woven around facts. Once you start, you get hooked and never get bored. When I was a kid I got hooked on the sc-fi adventures of the swashbuckling Conan - many lands and enemies; this is the same sort of thing but set in Anglo-Saxon England. My wife got me into them. Doesn't take much thought; easy reading; great story-telling.

Another amazing instalment in the story of Uhtred and his quest to regain Bebbanburg. There is an uneasy truce between the Saxons and Danes so the usual deceits and betrayals ensue. These books are so well written, the descriptions and detail make the story come alive. Can't recommend them enough!

Now Uhtred has finally come home how does he feel, what changes will he make and how will he settle in. Will he truly be Lord of Bebbanburg as he has always claimed or will he feel too estranged to the place and it's people after so long an absence?I felt the epilogue provided a rushed ending of the tale. We have followed Uhtred's trials through so many books and whilst this one is as exciting and thrilling as previous ones I felt cheated that we were not allowed to savour and share in what it truly meant for Uhtred to achieve his ultimate goal.