The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell

The Migration Period, the Dark Ages or the Anglo-Saxon period (all terms for the same time) is my specialist era and there is none as knowledgeable than Bernard Cornwell. As in all of his books, the details he includes in every scene: the weaving, the clothing, language and beliefs - are unmatched.

The main character is Uhtred of Bebbanburg, (modern day Bamburgh, Northumberland), an Anglo-Saxon nobleman boy whose father is killed by the invading Danes. He is kidnapped and taught Viking ways and as such gives great insight to the Vikings and their causes. Christianity is the religion of Britain but the Vikings have their rich multi-god faith, so their beliefs are thought to be sinful and pagan. However, the boy is brought up in this culture and ends up thinking that he is a Dane.

As he grows up he takes part in the conquest of the Saxon kingdoms of East Anglia and Merica (Midlands) and invades Wessex, where a new king, Alfred, is about to take over and, as we know from history, change the face of England.

A fascinating introduction to the Anglo-Saxon and Viking Britain, my only disappointment is that I already know the history. The detailed explanations about life as told to the young boy, is preaching to the converted. However, it is essential if the reader is not an historian and once all that information is done (done rather well though) the story gets underway at great speed. Exciting, informative with great characters and I am looking forward to the next book in the Saxon Stories series.  Bernard Cornwell - ​A popular writer and understandably so.

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Published by HarperCollins on 4 October 2004.

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