My favorite historical fiction is raw, realistic and gritty, and P W Finch delivered.

Set into the aftermath of 1066, this book is set in a ravaged England during the winter. It’s bleak, it’s bitter and it shows how chaotic and grim England really was after the Norman invasion. The stark reality of it provided a new perspective that I have not read much about and knew little of.

Battle Lord pits majestic Norman knights who long to follow the chivalric code against the downtrodden English who fight to keep their land. Plus, it throws in some Norse invaders, creating a toxic mix that makes for an utterly compelling retelling of history.

This is not a cheery read; rather it is laced with violence, battles and human suffering. But it contains moments of hope, men who become heroes and unlikely alliances that turn into comradeship.

It’s authentic, gripping and for me, the historical fiction I enjoy most.

I really enjoyed this sequel in the Wulfbury Chronicles series, it had everything that I enjoyed from the first book. It was an improvement and enjoyed the characters during this. The historical elements worked overall and I thought it worked as a great story.

"Battle Lord" by P.W. Finch transports readers to the turbulent era of AD 1066, immediately following the Battle of Hastings. The story centres around Cerdic, a captive of war facing an uncertain fate in the hands of the victorious Norman count Cynric. The survival of Cerdic hinges on his ability to persuade the Normans of his worth, using his lordship of Wulfbury as his bargaining chip.

The premise sets the stage for a compelling tale of survival, strategy, and the clash of cultures during a pivotal moment in history. Finch skilfully weaves historical details into the narrative, bringing the period to life with vivid descriptions of the aftermath of the Battle of Hastings and the challenges faced by those caught in the crossfire.

Cerdic's character is a focal point, and readers are likely to empathize with his plight as he navigates the treacherous political landscape. The tension is heightened by the presence of Vikings holding the fortress of Wulfbury, adding an additional layer of conflict and intrigue. The question of whether Cerdic can successfully negotiate his way through these challenges or face the same fate as fallen English warriors adds suspense to the plot.

The clash of cultures—Normans, English, and Vikings—offers a rich backdrop for exploring themes of power, loyalty, and survival. The dynamic relationships between characters, shaped by the historical context, contribute to the overall depth of the narrative.

"Battle Lord" appears to be a promising historical fiction novel that combines a gripping storyline with well-researched historical elements. Fans of historical fiction, especially those interested in the Norman Conquest period, may find this book to be an engaging and immersive read. P.W. Finch's attention to historical detail and character development seems to contribute to a narrative that captures the complexities of the time, making "Battle Lord" a compelling addition to the genre.