Synopses & Reviews
A novel of Arthur as he really was.
In the first book of this exciting trilogy, author Helen Hollick brings to life Arthur Pendragon as he really might have been. Leaving behind the fairy-tale element of Merlin's magic and the improbable existence of Lancelot, Hollick instead transports the reader to the early years of Britain circa 455 AD and tells the Arthurian legend in a solid and believable way.
For one, Arthur does not pull a sword from a stone using superhuman strength; rather, he is named heir to Britain (if he can win it from the tyrant Vortigern) while standing near a hallowed stone, the symbol of a warrior's strength and the chieftain's right of leadership. Later, a sword won in battle signals his place as Britain's King.
This is a story of harsh battles, secret treasonous plots, and the life-threatening politics of the dark ages of early Britain. Intertwined through it all is the often-tested love of Arthur and Gwenhwyfar (Guinevere in Welsh - her name as it really would have been) as they struggle to survive and conquer to see Pendragon become King.
If only all historical fiction could be this good.
Historical Novels Review
Helen Hollick has it all. She tells a great story, gets her history right and writes consistently readable books.
Bernard Cornwell
Hollick joggles a cast of characters and a bloody, tangled plot with great skill.
Publishers Weekly
Synopsis
An exciting new talent delivers a gripping and imaginative retelling of the classic story of King Arthur. In this first installment, Arthur and Gwenhwyfar become pawns in a political triangle and Arthur is forced to choose between his kingship and the woman he loves.
Synopsis
Compelling, convincing, and--ultimately--unforgettable.--Sharon Kay Penman, Bestselling Author of Devil's Blood
Who was THE MAN
Who became THE LEGEND
We know as KING ARTHUR?
You are the Pendragon, rightful Lord of Dumnonia and the Summer Land; Lord of less Britain. By all that is right, you ought be seated where Vortigern sits...You ought to be King.
Here lies the truth of the Lord of the Summer Land.
This is the tale of Arthur flesh and bone. Of the shaping of the man, both courageous and flawed, into the celebrated ruler who inspired armies, who captured Gwenhyfar's heart, and who emerged as the hero of the Dark Ages and the most enduring hero of all time.
This is the unexpected story of the making of a king -- the legend who united all of Britain.
Praise for The Kingmaking:
If only all historical fiction could be this good.--Historical Novels Review
Helen Hollick has it all. She tells a great story -- Bernard Cornwell
Hollick's interpretation is bold, affecting, and well worth fighting to defend. --Publishers Weekly
Synopsis
Who was THE MAN
Who became THE LEGEND
We know as KING ARTHUR?
You are the Pendragon, rightful Lord of Dumnonia and the Summer Land; Lord of less Britain. By all that is right, you ought be seated where Vortigern sitsYou ought to be King.
Here lies the truth of the Lord of the Summer Land.
This is the tale of Arthur flesh and bone. Of the shaping of the man, both courageous and flawed, into the celebrated ruler who inspired armies, who captured Gwenhyfar's heart, and who emerged as the hero of the Dark Ages and the most enduring hero of all time.
This is the unexpected story of the making of a king the legend who united all of Britain. Book One of the Pendragon's Banner Trilogy Includes bonus reading group guide
PRAISE FOR THE KINGMAKING
If only all historical fiction could be this good.
Historical Novels Review
Helen Hollick has it all. She tells a great story
Bernard Cornwell
Hollick's interpretation is bold, affecting, and well worth fighting to defend.
Publishers Weekly
Compelling, convincing, and ultimately-unforgettable.
Sharon Kay Penman, Bestselling Author of Devil's Blood