Beobrand Strikes Back!

Would you listen to The Cross and the Curse again? Why?

To be honest, at 48 years of age and with 15 Audible books as well as countless Kindle and physical books to read and listen to, I think life is too short to return to fiction books. I only really relisten to history and autobiography books nowadays. No offence to the author though, its a great listen.

What did you like best about this story?

It was exciting, but also informative about the social and political history of the time. I feel it's an added bonus when you read and learn through fiction books.

Have you listened to any of Barnaby Edwards’s other performances? How does this one compare?

A good narration. There is a huge cast of characters and they all stand out.

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

The book is cover to cover action but there is a particular scene that made me feel emotional. No spoilers though...

Any additional comments?

Matthew Harffy knows his stuff, I'm no historian but the book is littered with Old English terms and this knowledge gives the book an authentic feel. I really enjoyed this book, it had an Empire Strikes Back feel to it, in there is a huge battle at the beginning of the book and then the rest of the tale is more personal and political (but no less exciting.!) Harffy stresses (in the epilogue)that his book sticks quite rigidly to Northumbrian history at the time and obviously there wasn't a convenient battle on hand to to finish with the expected big pay off. But it doesn't matter, because he'd worked on building his characters the ending is especially moving. I'll definitely carry on reading this series.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Brought a tear to my eye.

I'm hooked. The narration is fantastic, I shall look for his other works.
So what's in store for our hero, and his warband.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Great Second Instalment

Great story, impressive, if a flawed hero, Great characters. Enjoyed the exploration of Saxon belief in their gods, emerging Christianity and the importance of oath taking threaded through the tale.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Good sequel

There are many trials and tribulations waiting for the hero in this sequel to the Serpent Sword. Not as dazzling as the first book but a good solid follow on. Good performance from Edwards as well, although he needs to do some work in his female voices.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Great story telling!!

Clearly influenced by Bernard Cornwell, but that is no bad thing. I would say that the story telling is less predictable then BC's however and the first 2 books in the series (including this one) have been simply superb. Also the narration by Barnaby Edwards just puts the icing on the cake!

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

pretty darn good

Not quite as brilliant as first book. But still a fantastic read (well listen actually) . Some great character development in this book, in particular getting to see the inner turmoil of Beobrand. Liked the additional element of the witch just wished for (if possible) more battles

Straight onto the next one

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Really good listen

MH is a new author to me. But Barnaby Edwards is known from Mortal Engines. Add a good story with a great reader and you have the basis for enjoyable listening.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

great

really enjoyed it, worth a listen if you like Bernard Cornwall you'll like this!!!! enjoy

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

A Series Developing Substance and Momentum

The second of Matthew Harffy’s excellent Bernicia Chronicles and may there be plenty more to come. Having proved himself as a warrior it might seem as if he’s in for a restful time but with kingdoms at stake and old enemies still lurking Beobrand is put to the test in almost every way imaginable. With his rise through the ranks comes greater riches, power and responsibility. As with the series opener this is another fast moving historical fiction with plenty of action. The Mead Halls are brimming with intrigue and there is a climactic encounter with an old enemy . . . though if Beobrand thinks that is the end of his difficulties in that regard he is sorely mistaken.

The superstitious nature of the times gets a good outing and Beobrand has to deal with some rather noisy neighbours. The church comes more to the fore with the author’s license being used to the full on some real historical characters.

In all it’s a fine continuation of the series and if like me you really liked the first one it seems it’s good news because there is plenty more to come!

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

6 people found this helpful

Good listen

Fine adventure story.....however I find the main character depressing!
Hope in the next book he is more upbeat

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!