Troutbirder II

Troutbirder II
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Saturday, May 24, 2014

The Pale Horseman


The last unvanquished piece of England, Wessex is eyed hungrily by the fearsome Viking conquerors. A dispossessed young nobleman, Uhtred is tied to the imperiled land by birth and marriage but was raised by the Danish invaders—and he questions where his allegiance must lie. But blood is his destiny, and when the overwhelming Viking horde attacks out of a wintry darkness, Uhtred must put aside all hatred and distrust and stand beside his embattled country's staunch defender—the fugitive King Alfred.

 The Pale Horseman is a gripping, monumental adventure that gives breathtaking life to one of the most important epochs in English history—yet another masterwork from New York Times bestselling author Bernard Cornwell.

And with that breathless introduction this opponent of “Wars of Choice” in modern American confesses to loving Bernard Cornwells bloodthirsty battles scenes in his historical novels.  All of them,  though the best was Agincourt and King Henry’s army who gave life to Shakespeares “band of brothers.”  And not to worry, I don’t play or approve of violent video games, gratuitous violence in movies nor verbal abuse in  any form….

 

15 comments:

  1. An interesting aspect of the Viking conquests was that in the places they stayed, instead of pillaging and moving on, they were quickly absorbed into the local culture. Also, just how far they spread. A messenger was sent from Italy to warn Constantinople of them, only to find the Emperor had Viking bodyguards.

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  2. Interesting. I can tolerate violence in historical novels, yet abhor it in movies or video games.

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  3. Did not know Shakespeare was responsible for the term "band of brothers."
    Will check this out. Thanks TB

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  4. I like historical novels.

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  5. You would think I would like Cornwell given his subject matter, but I tried him once and didn't get too far before I desisted.

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  6. Hello There, We just got home from a great week--which was a terrific 'healing' experience for me --as I recover from gallbladder surgery followed by that wicked infection... You'll have to check out my blog post today (if you haven't done so yet).

    Looks like a great read --especially for those of us who enjoy history. Thanks!!

    Happy Memorial Day to you and yours... Let's never forget those men and women (past and present) who were/are in the Armed Forces and have done so much to give us the FREEDOM we have today. God Bless ALL of them and God Bless the USA.

    Hugs,
    Betsy

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  7. I read all the time (I've got a good streak going so far this year - 87 books and counting) but I have never read one of his books. I remember a boyfriend in high school used to rave about them. I suppose I should check one out from the library. He's written so many - does one stand out from all the rest?

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  8. I read all the time (I've got a good streak going so far this year - 87 books and counting) but I have never read one of his books. I remember a boyfriend in high school used to rave about them. I suppose I should check one out from the library. He's written so many - does one stand out from all the rest?

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  9. Yes, I will have to check these out.
    Thank you for sharing.
    Carla

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  10. Well tha's going on me to read list :)

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  11. this looks interesting, thank you for the recommendation.

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  12. I have read and enjoyed all of Bernard Cornwell's novels. In my opinion he is the best historical novel writer in the world.

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  13. I should tell my husband. He loves British historical fiction and is looking for a good summer book. Thanks!

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  14. I have never read this author, but he sounds like someone I will enjoy. Thanks!

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