Who Would Like This Book:
Dive into a gripping swirl of battle, loyalty, and turbulent alliances in 9th-century England! The Pale Horseman is historical fiction at its bloodiest, with authentically brutal combat scenes, a vivid sense of period atmosphere, and a rogueish protagonist you can’t easily forget. Uhtred’s raucous inner conflict - torn between Saxon roots and Danish upbringing - keeps every page crackling with tension. If you love action-packed tales, complex (and often infuriating) antiheroes, and the drama of a country in the throes of birth and invasion, you’ll be hooked. Fans of Bernard Cornwell, medieval history, or epic sagas with a raw edge will devour this.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If gory battles aren’t your thing or you prefer sympathetic main characters, this may not be your cup of mead. Some readers find Uhtred too arrogant or immature, and Cornwell’s stark, often critical portrayal of Christianity and religious figures has ruffled a few feathers. The violence and rough edges are very true to the era - but not everyone relishes so much grit. And if you want more nuanced female roles or aren’t a fan of long, graphic fight scenes, you might find yourself skimming.
About:
'The Pale Horseman' is the second book in Bernard Cornwell's 'The Saxon Stories' series, following the protagonist Uhtred of Bebbanburgh in ninth-century England during the time of King Alfred of Wessex. The story revolves around King Alfred's battles with the Danes, particularly culminating in the Battle of Ethandun in 878 AD. The book combines historical events with fictional storytelling, showcasing themes of revenge, loyalty, and the struggle between Saxon and Danish loyalties. Cornwell's writing style is described as fast-paced, well-written, and filled with vivid descriptions of battles and combat, bringing the historical setting to life for readers.
Alfred and Uhtred form an unlikely alliance as they organize English resistance against the Danes, highlighting the intense time of transition and turning points in English history. The novel captures the harsh realities of the time, including the barbaric practices of armies, the struggle for power and survival, and the complexities of religious beliefs. Cornwell's attention to historical detail and accurate portrayal of the era, along with engaging characters and thrilling battle scenes, make 'The Pale Horseman' an excellent piece of historical fiction that immerses readers in the world of ninth-century England.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include graphic violence, depictions of war, and themes of betrayal and religious conflict.
Has Romance?
There is a medium level of romance in the book, particularly with Uhtred's relationships with women, including his wife and a new love interest.
From The Publisher:
The second installment of Bernard Cornwell's New York Times bestselling series chronicling the epic saga of the making of England, "like Game of Thrones, but real" (The Observer, London)-the basis for The Last Kingdom, the hit television series.
As the last unvanquished piece of England, Wessex is eyed hungrily by the fearsome Viking conquerors. Uhtred, a dispossessed young nobleman, is tied to the imperiled land by birth and marriage but was raised by the Danish invaders-and he questions where his allegiance must lie. But blood is his destiny, and when the overwhelming Viking horde attacks out of a wintry darkness, Uhtred must put aside all hatred and distrust and stand beside his embattled country's staunch defender-the fugitive King Alfred.
The Pale Horseman is a gripping, monumental adventure that gives breathtaking life to one of the most important epochs in English history-yet another masterwork from New York Times bestselling author Bernard Cornwell.
Ratings (24)
Incredible (10) | |
Loved It (9) | |
Liked It (2) | |
It Was OK (3) |
Reader Stats (31):
Read It (26) | |
Want To Read (4) | |
Not Interested (1) |
1 comment(s)
So much happens in this story that you feel like you've really been through a lot by the time you come out the other side. While there were elements that I didn't love, it all built to a fantastic ending. Definitely worth reading, especially for people who write books with combat.
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