Sword Brethren

Enjoyable but violent medieval thriller. An interesting, enjoyable and easily read novel about deceit, survival, love and warfare mostly set in an area of Central and Eastern Europe rarely covered by authors. The strict delineation of the feudal system, the power of the Catholic church and the precarious hold that most people had on life in the Medieval period come over clearly as we follow the career of a young teenager cheated out of his inheritance and forced to flee. His ordeal as an impoverished refugee and an apprentice Crusader knight lead the reader on an interesting journey of which I hope this novel is only the beginning of the saga. I received an Arc copy but the views are my own.

Akin to Cornwell. As an avid fan of Bernard Cornwell books, I was intrigued to read this story based on an ageing warrior's recollections of bloody battles. It doesn't disappoint, transporting the reader to a bygone age where crusades were fought and realms overtaken. From the standpoint of one brave warrior, this tale regales one with blood, battles, brethren and bravery. A great read that engages from the first page.