An Arthurian tale that stands out from anything else I have read, with its haunting yet beautiful story. A story of love and loss. Of friendship and betrayal. A story of sacrifice. And one of hope.
Camelot is a historical version of the Arthurian tales that is the sequel to Lancelot, which along with The Warlord Chronicles by Bernard Cornwell are my favourite Arthurian stories to date. And now, Camelot joins those esteemed ranks. I highly doubt there is anything on par to these great series.
“We were few. We were the last. And we were going to war.”
Set soon after the Romans have left Britain and during the invasions of the Saxons, the Britons are on the edge of total annihilation. After facing defeat and betrayal, many of the brave heroes of Lancelot have fallen, leaving few old warriors beyond their prime still willing to fight for freedom. Defeat seems inevitable.
Amongst this, Galahad, son of the infamous yet widely despised Lancelot, has been raised as a monk in a monastery. Yet, destiny has other things set in store for him. Galahad was a character very different from Lancelot, but I thoroughly enjoyed his story as well. The conflict with the memory of his father that he and everyone else has was particularly interesting. This is a coming-of-age story that gripped me in an emotional journey.
“We are no army, but we are the beginning of an army. We are the flint and steel from which a hundred fires will be lit. A thousand fires.”
Now onto the wonderful prose of Giles Kristian. It is lyrical and poetic. Beautiful to read. I glided along this story so smoothly, carried from page to page effortlessly. He has a quality to immerse you into the world he has created and make you experience every subtle emotion that he paints with each word. One of my favourite writing styles I have had the pleasure to read.
Something that Giles Kristian in undoubtedly brilliant with is his action sequences. I learnt this when I read his Raven historical series, and also Lancelot. This is no different. Whether they be small scale skirmishes, guerrilla warfare, duels or all-out battles, each one is executed wonderfully. As a reader you experience the claustrophobic adrenaline rush of battle, the fear, the confusion of conflict, all whilst still comprehending what is taking place. Again, just brilliant.
“I am an old fool, but I know that a man so loved by some and hated by others must be a man who was true to his heart.”
Within Camelot, we get the pleasure of being reunited with some of our favourite characters of Lancelot, such as Gawain. But we also gain some wonderful and intricate new characters, such as Galahad himself and the fierce bow-wielding young woman Iselle, who is a master of stealth and hates the Saxon invaders. The interactions between characters are so realistic and develop in an emotional and believable manner, adding further to the connection to them and the story.
As I hope I have managed to get across, I loved this book. From the prose, to characters, to action sequences. Everything in this book is brilliant. That is partly due to my love for anything Arthurian, but it is also due to the intricate and powerful story Giles Kristian has magically created. I was so lucky to gain an early copy of Lancelot. Do yourself a favour and read Lancelot and then this!
“Tell your father” I said, “That I loved him to the end.”
Excalibur is the third and final book in The Warlord Chronicles by Bernard Cornwell. It brings about the conclusion of the best Arthurian novels I have ever read.
“This tale of Arthur, my Lord, my friend and the deliverer of Britain.”
Excalibur was utterly brilliant just like its predecessors. It is the finale of a story that has immersed me into the lives of the characters as my feelings became the victims to the scale of emotions experienced, from euphoria to misery.
“Only a fool wants war, but once a war starts then it cannot be fought half-heartedly. It cannot even be fought with regret, but must be waged with a savage joy in defeating the enemy, and it is that savage joy that inspires our bards to write their greatest songs about love and war.”
Excalibur contained the largest scale conflicts of the trilogy, with Arthur and his warriors forced to repel a Saxon invasion that far outnumbers them. One of the best duels I have had the pleasure to read was in this, and it was mesmerising, the tension and description moulding together to make the scene truly incredible, I will remember that duel for many years to come.
So many acts of heroism were performed that had me physically grinning and then there were the despicable actions that had me weeping as the characters I have so grown to love fell victim to those whose ambitions are insatiable. Some of my most loved characters and most hated were in this trilogy, Derfel and Arthur being two who I will genuinely miss.
While Excalibur had its fair share of tragedy to say the least, it was also complete with moments of bitter satisfaction, that softened the blow slightly, but not enough to stem the tears…. (view spoiler)[ FINALLY LANCELOT (hide spoiler)]
“So, in the morning light, where they flapped in the drying wind, the bear and the star defied the Saxons.”
Excalibur was certainly a five star rating for me, I would give it more if I could. It was a wonderful, brutal, heart-wrenching, beautiful story about friendship and loyalty. I wept at multiple points and am shocked about how much my emotions have been affected.
The Warlord Chronicles is one of my all-time favourite series that has left me with a serious book hangover which will surely take a while to overcome. But now I must say farewell to the novel and all its contents, so goodbye to Derfel and his inspiring loyalty, Merlin and his wisdom, Galahad and his kindness and of course, Arthur, the Lord and saviour of Britain. Farewell...more
I now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out - The Brothers Gwynne
“So many dead. Their fooI now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out - The Brothers Gwynne
“So many dead. Their footsteps will not stir a rush on the floor nor frighten the mice that live in the monastery’s thatched roof.”
Enemy of God is the second book of The Warlord Chronicles by Bernard Cornwell. It continues the unique historical perspective about the origins of Arthur and his band of loyal warriors.
“For this is his tale, the tale of our dear warlord, our law-giver, our Arthur.”
Enemy of God reached the lofty heights of its predecessor and continued to grow past it. This wonderful, thrilling, heart-wrenching, tense novel contains all of the brilliant aspects of the first in the series, The Winter King. It continued to captivate me with many of the same brilliant characters, and a few more unique cast members who fitted into the story excellently.
“Fate is inexorable”
Enemy of God is told from the perspective of Derfel Cadarn, the same as the first in the trilogy. He is retelling the story of his friend Arthur, who he accompanied through all his struggles and shared his successes and failures with. Derfel has cemented his position as one of my favourite characters of all time with his loyalty, daring, determination and kindness.
Cornwell continues to write with that magical prose of his which guides my eyes from page to page as I accompany the characters of this book through their adventures. Each scene is so vivid and fluid and there was not one dull moment, for each page was consumed by an interesting event, description or character. Many books of this length contain pages or even chapters that disengage me from the story as they can be boring, but this book is an exception.
The plot continued to develop brilliantly and had me laughing out loud once again. I deeply despise certain characters and cherish others, just what I want from any book I read. The novel was filled with plot twists, extremely satisfying moments and times of despair. I was weeping at one point of the book which I am sure any former reader of the series will remember with the same sorrow I do. (view spoiler)[ I HATE LANCELOT (hide spoiler)]
“It’s only when you’re lost and frightened and in the dark that you call on the Gods, and they like us to call on them. It makes them feel powerful, and that’s why they like us to live in chaos”
Enemy of God was completely and utterly a five star rating in my mind and the trilogy is rapidly becoming one of my favourite trilogies of all time whilst already claiming first spot for books which have Arthur as a main concept.
I will immediately seize the last of the trilogy, Excalibur, in my hands and devour it in whatever free time I can obtain. I want to reach the conclusion of the series and discover what shall happen to these superb characters, but I am also dreading what is to come, I fear there will be many more tears.
I strongly advise any lovers of historical fiction, or the stories of Arthur to read this, you will not be disappointed.
One of the classic Arthurian texts, and it has had a lot more attention since the release of the recent movie adaptation. I read it originally quite aOne of the classic Arthurian texts, and it has had a lot more attention since the release of the recent movie adaptation. I read it originally quite a few years ago, but the details had strayed from my mind, so it was like reading it for the first time again.
This is an awesome Arthurian story in my opinion, with so many aspects of the legend that we know and love today. Gawain has always been one of my favourite characters, and I believe he is far more nuanced in this poem than you would expect from a medieval piece of literature.
“Of all the things that men may heed 'Tis most of love they sing indeed.”
Whilst I would say that there are didactic intentions, with obvious messages contained within this tale and heavy symbolism as well, there is an element of what people would probably think of as modern, in the sense that the message in my opinion is subtle. It is not in your face, it is not constantly alluded to with every other word. It is subtle, and that in my opinion makes it far more powerful. We progress through a linear story, with events feeding into the symbolism and message of the story, but not so obviously as to detract from the ongoing events. With the themes of chivalry, reputation, romance, discipline and honesty sticking out to me, there is so much to discuss that makes this poem engaging and interesting long after you have read and mulled over it for a while.
I would say that it is challenging at parts, but overall fluid and accessible, as it is telling a linear story, with the evolution of plot gradually taking place and just depicting the journey of Sir Gawain's interaction and quest with the Green Knight. It starts with telling the story of the beginning of England, which intertwines with the legend of Troy, but then fairly swiftly places you in Arthur’s chamber with his knights as a feast, shortly before The Green Knight makes his grand and impactful appearance. From then on you have an awesome, quirky and unique quest.
Also, I of course have to mention that I read Tolkien’s translation. Following that, it is not surprising when I say that he did a wonderful job. It is beautiful and conveys the tone and atmosphere, whilst still allowing the text to be accessible to more modern readers.
The Green Knight is such an intriguing and interesting read that is accessible to those far beyond the experienced reader of medieval texts. It is accessible, and I believe most people would ascertain a semblance of enjoyment from this read. Almost everyone enjoys Arthurian legend, and so, almost everyone would enjoy this.
I now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out - The Brothers Gwynne
Simply, one of the best bI now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out - The Brothers Gwynne
Simply, one of the best books I have ever read. Pure brilliance! Incredible prose, amazing characters, immersive world-building.
“And yet Arthur had Merlin. And Merlin had an idea. And so Arthur listened”
Lancelot is a historical version of the Arthurian tales that was refreshing and special. Wow, it was phenomenal!
The Arthurian legends have undoubtedly consisted of some of my favourite tales of all time. From the film adaptations to Tolkien’s epic poem The Fall of Arthur and Bernard Cornwell’s Warlord Chronicles. These are some of my favourite books ever, hence why I am currently writing a 6,000 word essay on the evolution of the legends. Lancelot now enters this bracket, and goes right up near the top.
This was a wonderful retelling of well-known stories, from a unique and wonderful perspective, including an entirely new coming of age story, and giving such a brilliant depth to the story of Lancelot.
Giles Kristian's prose is smooth, clear and alluring. The reading was made even better by the great audio narration of Philip Stevens, the first audiobook I’ve ever listened to.
“Arthur would fight for Britain. I would fight for Arthur. And Guinevere would always own my soul. The gods are cruel.”
The characters are masterful! New characters were brilliant and memorable, Pelias and Melwas being two such people. I fell in love with some. I absolutely despised others. They will linger on my mind for a long time to come.
This is my first reading of a book by Giles Kristian, a crime really. And oh was I so happy to discover he creates amazing action sequences. You are immersed into the conflict, whether it be a duel, or a skirmish, or a large scale battle. Whatever it is, you will feel as if you are there, participating in the crush of battle, experiencing the claustrophobic adrenaline rush of the shieldwall. Yet another aspect of this book to praise!
Lancelot is a story of heroism and tragedy. Of love and loyalty. Of a heart-wrenching decision between friendship and love. An impossible decision. I hate certain decisions Lancelot makes, but I could not stop myself sympathising with him and agreeing with his course. Kristian framed the story in the perfect way.
Overall, I cannot express the joy I found in this novel. It was utterly brilliant! Never a dull moment. Characterisation, plot and pace was all spot on. Nothing to fault in this magnificent tale. The sequel matches this in craft step by step.
I now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out - The Brothers Gwynne
“The bards sing of love, I now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out - The Brothers Gwynne
“The bards sing of love, they celebrate slaughter, they extol kings and flatter queens, but were I a poet I would write in praise of friendship.”
If you love stories consisting of memorable characters you love and despise, fantastic storytelling, stunning action sequences and moral lessons, then you will adore this historical telling of the chronicles of Arthur and the story of his life.
The Winter King is the first book in The Warlord Chronicles which is a unique take on the story of Arthur during the dark ages. I have always loved the tales of Arthur and his warriors, and this is not an exception. It is the best book I have read which has the story of Arthur as its main concept.
“Fate is inexorable."
Cornwell chooses certain aspects and adapts others from the common stories so the reader cannot predetermine the events which shall occur, and so the story which is told is a new one. He produces this book in a masterful style overflowing with immersive action and fantastic characters.
The sole point of view is Derfel, was born a Saxon but raised a Briton in the kingdom of Dumnonia, which is a kingdom residing in southern Briton. He features as the main character in the Winter King. He is a man who values loyalty and kindness, and proves it many times. It is hard not to fall in love with him as the stories progress and you witness his faults and virtues.
The prose of Bernard Cornwell is superb as the description and storytelling flows brilliantly. It is fluid and smooth making it an easy job to continue reading this large book as the plot line constantly develops in a manner which disallowed me from being bored at any point.
The Winter King is a definite five star rating in my opinion due to one of my favourite writing styles I have encountered and the way it captured many of my favourite aspects in stories.
Impending exams are absorbing most of my leisure time, but almost every moment of freedom I have gained in the last few days consisted of me reading this. It took a serious level of self-control to resist devouring this novel with a few long sittings.
This is one of, if not my favourite historical fiction novel I have had the pleasure to read and I shall be instantly be borrowing my father’s copy of Enemy of God, which is the second book of this series.
The Fall of Arthur is an epic poem recounting the end of the tale of Arthur, left unfinished, but still managing to feel complete and amazing.
"Wild rode the wind though the West country. Banners were blowing, black was the raven they bore as blazon. Blaring of trumpets, neighing of horses, gnashing of armour, in the hoar hollows of the hills echoed . Mordred was marching; messengers speeding northward and eastward the news bearing through the land of Logres. Lords and chieftains to his side he summoned swift to hasten their tryst keeping, true to Mordred, faithful in falsehood, foes of Arthur, lovers of treason and freebooters"
This epic poem is about one of my favourite subjects and legends of all time. I have always been obsessed and enamoured by the tales of Arthur, and this is no exception.
Tolkien's prose in this epic poem is purely exceptional. Inspiring, immersive, beautiful. Just so brilliant. I loved every page of it. Really cannot give it enough praise. The characters are instantly given an incredible depth that made me fall in love with the characters, despite the short time spent with them.
This is a tale of heroism and tragedy, not made boring by the context of former tales. Tokien adds his own spin and image to the tale, making it different, while containing all that is brilliant and wonderful within the stories.
To any lovers of Arthurian tales, which I imagine is most, I would recommend this poem. It is easy to comprehend, and is only short. Please read it!
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