I have read books by Michael before, so when his name appeared on Rachel’s Random Resources list of historical fiction titles to review, I couldn’t resist. Read on for my honest thoughts…
Blurb:
Once they’d had enough of war… Now they’ve had enough of peace
1359, Northern France. With the ink still drying on the Treaty of Bretigny, an agreement most believed to be nothing more than a stalemate between King Edward III of England and John II of France, the country is left riddled with both English and French armies – exhausted, adrift and directionless.
An atmosphere ripe for rebellion.
Berenger Fripper returns to the only life he truly understands, among the troops of Hawkwood’s company. But danger and treachery lurk around every abandoned French farm or village. When the company comes across the promise of riches hidden in a monastery, the motley crew finally feel as though their luck is changing…
But as quickly as they find the treasure, quicker still it’s stolen from under their noses, and as they seek revenge on the unknown thief, they find themselves swept up in the might – and the politics – of the Great Company… Will any of them get out alive?
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Well, we have to start with the stunning cover, of course. It sets the tone of conflict beautifully before you even start.
Secondly, this is the kind of historical fiction that reminds us how thin the line can be between victory and chaos, which I love.
What stands out most is the atmosphere, yet again. Jecks has a strong feel for the brutality and instability of medieval life, and the setting feels harsh, vivid, and convincing. There is a constant sense of movement and menace here: abandoned villages, uneasy alliances, and the lingering presence of conflict all give the story real momentum.
Even with the action, there is still room for the political tensions of the period to shape the narrative, which helps the book feel broader than a simple quest for treasure.
What I loved:
- The visceral reality of medieval life stands out for me. It was a brutal time, and I love authors who do not shy away from that.
- The premise is enticing, and absolutely delivers on its promise: military adventure combined with intrigue and hidden treasure. What’s not to like?
- It’s the best example of a gritty page-turner in his genre that I’ve read in some time. If you like hard-hitting action and realism in your historical fiction, this is for you.
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Author Bio:
Michael Jecks is the author of over 50 novels inspired by history and legend. He is the founder of Medieval Murderers, and has served on the committees of the Historical Writers’ Association, the CWA and The Detection Club. He was International Guest of Honour at the Bloody Words festival in Toronto, and Grand Master of the first parade in the New Orleans Mardi Gras.
You can find him here:
Facebook: @Michael.Jecks.author
Twitter: @MichaelJecks
Instagram: @michaeljecks
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MichaelJecksNews
Bookbub profile: @michaeljecks
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