Who Would Like This Book:
If you love your historical fiction drenched in intrigue, battles, and royal scheming, "Stormbird" is a fantastic choice. Conn Iggulden brings the messy, dramatic beginnings of the Wars of the Roses to life with vivid detail and punchy action. The book shines by giving us both high-born nobles and everyday folk's perspectives - think political chess games mixed with the gritty reality of English archers and peasants. Fans of Bernard Cornwell or even those looking for something to tide them over between Game of Thrones installments will find a lot to enjoy, especially if you don’t mind a few creative liberties with the facts. There's an abundance of characters, grand set pieces, and the kind of page-turning drama that keeps you hooked.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you’re a stickler for rock-solid historical accuracy or want your characters to leap off the page immediately, this might not be your cup of tea. Some readers struggled with a confusing cast list, a slow start, and occasional two-dimensional characters. If you prefer tightly focused plots over sprawling multiple storylines or find yourself easily overwhelmed by names and titles, be warned - it can feel like swimming through a sea of Henrys, Margarets, and Yorks. The series also doesn’t pull punches with battle brutality, and some found the timeline jumpy and the narrative occasionally repetitive. Hardcore history buffs may find the creative license irritating.
About:
"Stormbird" by Conn Iggulden is a captivating historical fiction novel set in the year 1437, following the marriage of Henry VI and Margaret of Anjou and the events leading up to the Wars of the Roses. The author weaves a tale of court intrigue, political drama, and personal relationships against the backdrop of medieval England and France, bringing to life characters like Thomas, Rowan, and Queen Margaret with compelling storytelling and meticulous research.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book includes themes of violence, gore (particularly in battle scenes), and historical violence towards marginalized groups.
Has Romance?
There is a medium level of romance, primarily centered on Henry VI and Margaret of Anjou's marriage, which evolves over the narrative.
From The Publisher:
The first book in #1 New York Times bestselling author Conn Iggulden's brilliant new historical series about two families that plunged England into a devastating, decades-long civil war.
In 1437, the Lancaster king Henry VI ascends the throne of England after years of semi-peaceful regency. Named "The Lamb," Henry is famed more for his gentle and pious nature than his father's famous battlefield exploits; already, his dependence on his closest men has stirred whispers of weakness at court.
A secret truce negotiated with France to trade British territories for a royal bride-Margaret of Anjou-sparks revolts across English territory. The rival royal line, the House of York, sees the chaos brought on by Henry's weakness and with it the opportunity to oust an ineffectual king.
As storm clouds gather over England, King Henry and his supporters find themselves besieged abroad and at home. Who or what can save the kingdom before it is too late?
"It's been said that Game of Thrones is the Wars of the Roses written as fantasy: this is the real thing, more glorious [and] more passionate."-M. C. Scott, author of Rome: The Emperor's Spy
"Capturing the…violence and romance of medieval life, Iggulden makes real those grand characters who live in the collective memory."-Kirkus Reviews
"Great pacing, fascinating people, and vibrant descriptions make this a must read!"-Historical Novel Review
Ratings (7)
Incredible (1) | |
Loved It (3) | |
Liked It (1) | |
It Was OK (1) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (32):
Read It (9) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (19) | |
Not Interested (3) |
What can you read after
Stormbird?
About the Author:
Conn Iggulden is one of the most successful authors of historical fiction writing today. He is the author of Stormbird and Margaret of Anjou, the first two books in his superb series set during the Wars of the Roses, a remarkable period of British…
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
