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Content snapshot
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Violence
A lot
Significant battle violence and Dark Ages warfare depicted with historical realism
Language
Some
Some strong language consistent with the adult historical fiction register
Sexual Content
Some
Adult sexual content in the series' established register; Uhtred's relationships are part of the storytelling
Substance Use
Some
Period-appropriate drinking and mead-hall culture
Emotional Intensity
Some
The moral complexity of fighting for a king you sometimes despise creates ongoing psychological tension
What this book is about
The second Saxon Stories novel follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg as Alfred the Great is driven from his kingdom into the Somerset marshes by the Danish invasion. The novel covers Alfred's rebuilding of his forces and the famous burning of the cakes. Cornwell's historical fiction is meticulous and the battle scenes are among the best in the genre. Violence, sexuality, and the ruthlessness of Dark Ages warfare are all present at the adult level established by the series.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Significant battle violence
Adult content consistent with series
Reader Verification
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More Historical Fiction books from the catalog.
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