Synopsis
It takes a remarkable writer to make an old story as fresh and compelling as the first time we heard it. With The Winter King, the first volume of his magnificent Warlord Chronicles, Bernard Cornwell finally turns to the story he was born to write: the mythic saga of King Arthur.
The tale begins in Dark Age Britain, a land where Arthur has been banished and Merlin has disappeared, where a child-king sits unprotected on the throne, where religion vies with magic for the souls of the people. It is to this desperate land that Arthur returns, a man at once utterly human and truly heroic: a man of honor, loyalty, and amazing valor; a man who loves Guinevere more passionately than he should; a man whose life is at once tragic and triumphant.
As Arthur fights to keep a flicker of civilization alive in a barbaric world, Bernard Cornwell makes a familiar tale into a legend all over again.
Review
Essentially this is a modern political thriller, told in flat American diction. Narrated by Derfel, an ordinary, likable man who rises through the ranks to become Arthur's friend and advisor in peace and war, the story doesn't follow the traditional patterns. Mordred is Uther's infant grandson, the legitimate king; Arthur is one of Mordred's guardians, sworn to hold the kingdom against the Saxon warlords until Mordred comes of age. Warfare is incessant. Arthur's dream of peace and unity seems unattainable. Derfel's own story--his strange origin, his love for Nimue, his worries and his triumphs--parallels Arthur's as he fights for and beside him.
Bernard Cornwell downplays the magic that enlivens the traditional stories, depicting it more as a combination of superstition and shrewd wits. I recommend this with reservations; though it's absorbing to read, the emphasis on battles and politics means that this will greatly appeal to some fantasy readers, but disappoint others.
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The Winter King
From Bernard Cornwell, the international bestselling author and master of historical fiction. In the Dark Ages, a legendary warrior arises to unite a divided land . . . Uther, the High King of Britain, is dead. His only heir is the infant Mordred. Yet each of the country's lesser kings seek to claim the crown for themselves. While they squabble and spoil for war, a host of Saxon armies gather, preparing for invasion. But no one has counted on the fearsome warlord Arthur. Handed power by Merlin and pursuing a doomed romance with the beautiful Guinevere, Arthur knows he will struggle to unite the country - let alone hold back the Saxon enemy at the gates. Yet destiny awaits him . . . The first of Bernard Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles, The Winter King is a brilliant retelling of the Arthurian legend, combining myth, history and thrilling battlefield action. 'Of all the books I have written these are my favourites' Bernard Cornwell 'Spellbinding realism' The Times
The best take on the iconic Arthur story I've read or watched' 5***** Reader Review In the Dark Ages, a legendary warrior arises to unite a divided land . . . _________ Uther, the High King of Britain, is dead."
The Winter King (Book One)
From the No. 1 bestselling author of WAR LORD comes an epic retelling of the Arthurian legend, from the bestselling Last Kingdom series In the Dark Ages, a legendary warrior arises to unite a divided land . . . Uther, the High King of Britain, is dead. His only heir is the infant Mordred. Yet each of the country's lesser kings seek to claim the crown for themselves. While they squabble and spoil for war, a host of Saxon armies gather, preparing for invasion. But no one has counted on the fearsome warlord Arthur. Handed power by Merlin and pursuing a doomed romance with the beautiful Guinevere, Arthur knows he will struggle to unite the country - let alone hold back the Saxon enemy at the gates. Yet destiny awaits him . . . Combining myth, history, and thrilling battlefield action, fans of Game of Thrones, The Last Kingdom, Conn Iggulden and Merlin will be captivated by this gripping epic. ___________ 'Of all the books I have written these are my favourites' Bernard Cornwell 'Spellbinding realism' The Times
Combining myth, history, and thrilling battlefield action, fans of Game of Thrones, The Last Kingdom, Conn Iggulden and Merlin will be captivated by this gripping epic. ___________ 'Of all the books I have written these are my favourites' ..."
The King Arthur Trilogy
It takes a remarkable writer to make an old story as fresh and compelling as the first time we heard it. Bernard Cornwell's Internationally bestselling King Arthur Trilogy tells the mythic saga of King Arthur and is the work of a magnificent storyteller at the height of his powers. THE WINTER KING The novel is set in Dark Age Britain in a land where Arthur has been banished and Merlin has disappeared, where a child-king sits unprotected on the throne, where religion vies with magic for the souls of the people. It is to this desperate land that Arthur returns, a man at once utterly human and truly heroic; a man who loves Guinevere more passionately than he should; a man whose life is at once tragic and triumphant. ENEMY OF GOD Having defeated the last holdouts of civil war in southern Britain, Arthur has secured Mordred's throne. But he must still face raging conflicts between the old ways and the new, as well as foes more powerful and more dangerous--because they pose as friends. EXCALIBUR The unforgettable tale of Arthur's final struggles against the Saxons and his last attempts to triumph over a ruined marriage and ravaged dreams as forces both earthly and unearthly threaten everything Arthur stands for. Peopled by princesses and bards, by warriors and magicians, Excalibur is the story of love, war, loyalty, and betrayal.
Bernard Cornwell's internationally bestselling King Arthur Trilogy tells the mythic saga of King Arthur and is the work of a magnificent storyteller at the height of his powers."
Warlord Trilogy
More fantastic adventure tales written by Bernard Cornwell. This collection contains âe~Excaliburâe(tm), âe~WinterKingâe(tm) and âe~Enemy of Godâe(tm). A triology containing Excalibur, Winter King and Enemy of God."
Excalibur
In The Winter King and Enemy of God Bernard Cornwell demonstrated his astonishing ability to make the oft-told legend of King Arthur fresh and new for our time. Now, in this riveting final volume of The Warlord Chronicles, Cornwell tells the unforgettable tale of Arthur's final struggles against the Saxons and his last attempts to triumph over a ruined marriage and ravaged dreams. This is the tale not only of a broken love remade, but also of forces both earthly and unearthly that threaten everything Arthur stands for. Peopled by princesses and bards, by warriors and magicians, Excalibur is the story of love, war, loyalty, and betrayal-the work of a magnificent storyteller at the height of his powers.
This is the tale not only of a broken love remade, but also of forces both earthly and unearthly that threaten everything Arthur stands for."
Works by Bernard Cornwell
Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. Commentary (works not included). Pages: 24. Chapters: Novels by Bernard Cornwell, Short stories by Bernard Cornwell, Gallows Thief, The Winter King, Harlequin, The Starbuck Chronicles, The Last Kingdom, The Lords of the North, Sharpe's Tiger, The Pale Horseman, Sword Song, Sharpe's Skirmish, The Grail Quest, The Warlord Chronicles, Sharpe's Rifles, Enemy of God, Excalibur: A Novel of Arthur, Sharpe's Christmas, Sharpe's Ransom, Stonehenge, Azincourt. Excerpt: Azincourt Azincourt is an historical novel written by Bernard Cornwell . The book relates the events leading to the Battle of Agincourt, through its protagonist Nicholas Hook. In the United States, it was published under the title Agincourt. Publication Film adaptation Screenwriter Michael Hirst is said to be writing a screenplay based on Cornwell's book, with filming scheduled to begin in 2010. References (URLs online) A hyperlinked version of this chapter is at Enemy of God Enemy of God is the second book in The Warlord Chronicles series by Bernard Cornwell . The trilogy tells the legend of Arthur seen through the eyes of his follower Derfel Cadarn .Plot introduction Arthur, against all odds, has achieved peace among the warring British Kingdoms and is soon set to turn his attentions against the Saxons. Merlin arrives with a dangerous and near impossible quest into the lands of the most terrible of Britain's enemies in an attempt to recover an ancient relic which will help him restore Britain to its former glory. All the while, Arthur's enemies close around him, ready to destroy his world for their own aims...Plot summary Chapter One: Enemy of God starts off where The Winter King left off. Arthur tells Derfel that he plans to marry Lancelot to Ceinwyn, and Derfel does not reveal that he is in love with Ceinwyn and wants her for himself. Derfel speaks with Merlin, and Merlin...
Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online."
Enemy of God
With The Winter King, the first volume of his magnificent Warlord Chronicles, Bernard Cornwell established himself as the storyteller who could reinvent the legend of King Arthur for our time. Now with Enemy of God, Cornwell's magical re-creation continues. Having defeated the last holdouts of civil war in southern Britain, Arthur has secured Mordred's throne. But he must still face raging conflicts between the old ways and the new, as well as foes more powerful and more dangerous--because they pose as friends. Brilliantly written and peopled with the familiar faces of legend along with new ones, Enemy of God is an immensely powerful continuation of a modern classic.
With The Winter King, the first volume of his magnificent Warlord Chronicles, Bernard Cornwell established himself as the storyteller who could reinvent the legend of King Arthur for our time."
Goddess of The Hunt
Best First Historical Romance, RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice awards Shortlisted on the American Library Association’s 2009 “Reading List” for outstanding genre fiction Voted Best Debut Author of 2009 by the readers at All About Romance Voted Best Debut Historical by readers of The Season Di suatu malam, Lucy Waltham muncul di depan pintu kamar Jeremy dan menciumnya dengan penuh gairah. Penuh gairah—bukan cinta. Hati Lucy sendiri sejak dulu adalah milik Sir Tobias ‘Toby’ Aldridge. Tapi sayangnya, laki-laki itu selalu menganggapnya seperti anak kecil, bukan lady dewasa yang layak mendapatkan cintanya. Karenanya, berbekal buku panduan—dan ‘bantuan’ Jeremy—Lucy akan belajar cara membuat laki-laki jatuh cinta. Ditambah lagi, Jeremy Trescott, Earl of Kendall, tak sekali pun pernah setuju menjadi ‘guru’ Lucy. Tapi lady muda itu punya segala cara untuk membuat Jeremy masuk dalam permainannya. Dia memaksa, menuntut... menggoda. Dan tak satu pun dari mereka bisa menyangkal api gairah yang menyala-nyala di antara keduanya. Ciuman Jeremy, gelenyar di sekujur tubuh saat kulit mereka bersentuhan, dan aroma maskulin bercampur keringat itu... ya Tuhan! Semuanya terasa salah. Dan lebih buruknya lagi, Lucy kemudian menyadari dia telah melanggar aturan paling dasar dalam permainan ini: jatuh cinta pada ‘guru’-nya sendiri. -GagasMedia-
Best First Historical Romance, RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice awards Shortlisted on the American Library Association’s 2009 “Reading List” for outstanding genre fiction Voted Best Debut Author of 2009 by the readers at All About ..."
Novels by Bernard Cornwell
Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. Commentary (novels not included). Pages: 27. Chapters: Azincourt (novel), Enemy of God (novel), Excalibur: A Novel of Arthur, Gallows Thief, Harlequin (novel), Sharpe's Rifles (novel), Stonehenge (novel), Sword Song (novel), The Fort (novel), The Grail Quest (novel series), The Last Kingdom, The Lords of the North, The Pale Horseman, The Starbuck Chronicles, The Warlord Chronicles, The Winter King. Excerpt: The Winter King is the first novel of the Warlord Chronicles by Bernard Cornwell. It was published in 1995 in the UK by Penguin Group. The novel is divided into five parts. It tells the story of how Arthur became warlord of Great Britain despite illegitimacy to the throne. After being banished to Armorica by his father High King Uther, Arthur returns to protect the new king, his nephew the baby Mordred. However, he once more is put in a precarious position when, on the cusp of a united peaceful Britain, Arthur runs out on his engagement to an enemy nation's princess. His decision to marry Guinevere instead plunges the island into war with everyone baying for his blood but the book ends with his conquering the other armies and uniting all of Britain so that they can fight the invading Saxons in the next books. The Kingdom of Dumnonia is in chaos. The forces of Dumnonia led by the Edling (Crown Prince) Mordred and Arthur (the King's bastard) have defeated the Saxons at a battle beneath the hill of the white horse, but at a terrible price. Prince Mordred was slain, leaving the Kingdom without an heir. Dumnonia's only hope is for Mordred's pregnant wife, Norwenna, to give birth to a son. High King Uther Pendragon blames his son's death on Arthur and exiles him to Armorica. Norwenna is in labor, and there are fears that she and the child may die. Norwenna, a Christian, has insisted that only Christian midwives be present. High King...
It was published in 1995 in the UK by Penguin Group. The novel is divided into five parts. It tells the story of how Arthur became warlord of Great Britain despite illegitimacy to the throne."
Warlord Chronicles
The Warlord Chronicles breathe new life to Arthurian legend, weaving together historical fact, intense battles and the old world magic of Merlin. The Warlord Chronicles series includes The Winter King, Enemy of God and Excalibur. 'Spellbinding realism' The Times 'Of all the books I have written these three are my favourites' Bernard Cornwell
The Warlord Chronicles series includes The Winter King, Enemy of God and Excalibur. 'Spellbinding realism' The Times 'Of all the books I have written these three are my favourites' Bernard Cornwell"
The Winter Prince
Brave Medraut is a fitting heir to the throne—but he can never be king—in this fantasy retelling of the legend of Mordred from the author of Code Name Verity. Medraut is the eldest son of High King Artos, and would-be heir to the British throne—if not for an unfortunate circumstance of birth. Instead, his weak and unskilled half-brother, Lleu, is chosen as successor. Medraut cannot bear the thought of being ruled by the boy who has taken what he believes is rightfully his. Consumed by jealousy, he turns to Morgause, the high king’s treacherous sister, who exploits Medraut’s shame and plots to take over the throne. But when Medraut discovers Lleu’s inner strength and goodness, he finds his battle is not just with the kingdom, but with the demons inside himself. Now he must choose where his allegiances truly lie. Perfect for readers of Robin McKinley and Jane Yolen, The Winter Prince is an “engrossing” novel that “fantasy lovers and devotees of Arthurian legends will enjoy,” from an author who has won honors ranging from the Carnegie Medal to the Edgar Award (Booklist). This ebook features an illustrated biography of Elizabeth Wein including rare images from the author’s personal collection.
This ebook features an illustrated biography of Elizabeth Wein including rare images from the author’s personal collection."
In Winter's Shadow
Praise for Gillian Bradshaw: "A welcome new light on the horizon of popular Arthurian legend." – Book list Vows broken. . . Friendships betrayed. . . The fate of heroes finally revealed. . . As powerful enemies attack the throne from inside the kingdom, Arthur, his queen, and his greatest warrior Gwalchmai will be put to the ultimate test. Never faltering in her loyalty to the king, Gwynhwyfar has stood at Arthur's side through rebellion and war. But one desperate decision could cost her all they've built. With the kingdom crumbling around them, following the Queen's heart could be the greatest threat of all. .. Praise for Bradshaw's Hawk of May series "Compelling ... splendid ... vibrant ... exhilarating ...a novel that seduces us into accepting sorcery and sanctity in King Arthur's England." – New York Times Book Review "Will appeal to those who have enjoyed Tolkien's works." – Library Journal What readers are saying: "One of the most emotionally compelling novel retellings of this classic story." "If you like this legend-this is a must read. This collection will never leave my bookshelf!" "The author has a gift for creating ... beautiful, heart-stirring prose."
" "If you like this legend-this is a must read. This collection will never leave my bookshelf!" "The author has a gift for creating ... beautiful, heart-stirring prose.""
King Arthur and the Grail Quest
A thrilling and inspiring tale of a journey and a vision - the quest for the Grail. In this book, noted Arthurian specialist John Matthews has created an casily understood survey of the origins and merging of the epic themes and legends concerned with the Holy Grail. With a great wealth of illustration and specially created colour plates, King Arthur and the Grail Quest provides a fascinating survey as well as including five of the traditional stories, retold by the author. In addition, there is a full summary of all sources and an extensive bibliography.
In this book, noted Arthurian specialist John Matthews has created an casily understood survey of the origins and merging of the epic themes and legends concerned with the Holy Grail."
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