By Bernard Cornwell, Rated A+++++
"Lords of the North" is Cornwell's third and most dramatic volume in the Saxon Chronicles. A breathtaking adventure, this is the story of the creation of modern England, as the English and the Danes become one people by sharing language and fighting side-by-side.
In this book Utred has been released from Alfred's service and has returned to Cumbria to persue his blood fued with Ivar Ivarson, the man who killed his Foster Father and to claim the land that rightfully should be his from his birth Father whom was also murdered.
But Utred, never known for his tact, has made a lot of enemies. Soon he is up to his neck in plots and subplots by the newly proclaimed King of Cumbria and the priests who have their own agendas and finds himself betrayed and sold into slavery. Rescued by Alfred who needs Uhtred's services to solidify the Christian Saxons' hold on Britain, Uhtred once again finds himself at the frontlines of battle with the land-hungry Danes. This battle ends in a thrilling midnight raid on an impregnable Danish stronghold, thus establishing Saxon rule in the north, as well as the south.
It seemed to me like this book had a lot more funny moments and wry humor than The Last Kingdom or The Pale Rider. I continue to be amazed by the passion for relics that the church had during this time and the gullibility of the people who fell for i†. I especially enjoyed the Danish interpretation of some of the Christian beliefs and bible stories.
How wonderful that this is going to be a "series" instead of a "Trilogy" I am so not ready for the adventures of Utred to end.
