The Pale Horseman

The Pale Horseman by Bernard Cornwell

Category: Historical Fiction Grade: C+

In this sequel to The Last Kingdom, Cornwell continues the story that takes place during the reign of Alfred the Great in 9th century England. This is a time when the Danes had invaded and established a major foothold, slowly driving out the Saxons who had previously defeated the Britons. The story focuses on Uhtred, the warrior from Northumbria, who had been captured by and later befriended by the Danes. Its left to Uhtred to decide whose side he's really on as Alfred prepares to attempt the retaking of the kingdom.

This is definitely the England of Camelot as seen in the movies. Being more realistic, its the tale of filth, blood, petty rivalries, witchcraft and pagan religions. Unfortunately, this book also doesn't have the style and intensity of Cornwell's terrific Arthurian trilogy. Don't know whether Cornwell is trying to knock out best sellers or whether he's losing some of his abilities, but, frankly, the writing is pretty juvenile. I did finish the book because the story is reasonably interesting and, in fact, I'll probably buy the third volume of this trilogy when it comes out, but it'll be more out of curiosity about how the story ends than a desire to read a really great book.

If you're in to this period of history or you read The Last Kingdom and want to get on with the story, you'll probably pick this one up no matter I say. For the rest of you -- there's better stuff out there.