Sword Song (The Saxon Stories, #4)

Title: Sword Song (The Saxon Stories, #4)

Author: Bernard Cornwell

Published in: 2007

Date read: 17th September 2018

Score: 4/5

Genre: Historical fiction, Thriller

Plot: (Warning, may contain spoilers):
"Sword Song" by Bernard Cornwell, published in 2007, is the fourth novel in the acclaimed Saxon Stories series (also known as The Last Kingdom series). It continues the saga of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon raised by Danes, as he navigates the tumultuous landscape of 9th-century England, torn between his Saxon heritage and his Dane loyalties, and dedicated to fulfilling his destiny.

The story is set shortly after the events of "The Lords of the North" and sees England still fragmented, with King Alfred's Wessex holding out against the constant threat of Viking invasion and consolidation of power. Uhtred, though a loyal warrior to Alfred, remains a pagan at heart and frequently chafes under the pious king's command.

The central conflict of "Sword Song" revolves around the escalating struggle between King Alfred and the powerful Dane warlord Haesten, who has proven to be a particularly cunning and cruel adversary. Haesten has established a formidable presence in Essex and is continuously raiding Saxon lands, consolidating his power, and threatening the fragile peace Alfred is trying to build.

Uhtred is tasked by Alfred with a crucial mission: to secure the vulnerable coastline of Essex and prevent Haesten from gaining further ground. This involves a dangerous campaign of skirmishes, raids, and strategic manoeuvres against a well-entrenched and ruthless enemy. Uhtred's unique skills as both a warrior and a strategist, blending Saxon tactics with Danish ferocity, are put to the test.

A significant subplot involves Uhtred's personal quest to reclaim his ancestral home, Bebbanburg, a goal that constantly drives his actions. He also grapples with his relationships, including his complicated loyalty to Alfred and his enduring bonds with his Dane friends.

The novel vividly portrays the brutal realities of warfare in Anglo-Saxon England, with detailed descriptions of shield walls, axe-fighting, and the constant threat of betrayal. It highlights the stark cultural and religious differences between the Christian Saxons and the pagan Danes, and Uhtred's position as a man caught between two worlds.

The climax of "Sword Song" is a major, decisive battle. Uhtred, despite being outnumbered and often unsupported by his Saxon allies, plays a pivotal role in confronting Haesten's forces in a desperate struggle for control of the strategically vital territory. His leadership, ferocity, and cunning ultimately turn the tide, solidifying his reputation as a formidable warlord, even as his relationship with Alfred remains complex.

Comments:
This follows on seamlessly from the previous instalment. Great addition and this is reflected well in the TV adaptation called "The Last Kingdom".

Books that we've read by Bernard Cornwell (28):
Sharpe's Eagle (Sharpe, #8) (1981), Sharpe's Gold (Sharpe, #9) (1981), Sharpe's Company (Sharpe, #13) (1982), Sharpe's Sword (Sharpe, #14) (1983), Sharpe's Enemy (Sharpe, #15) (1984), Sharpe's Honour (Sharpe, #16) (1985), Sharpe's Regiment (Sharpe, #17) (1986), Redcoat (1987), Sharpe's Siege (Sharpe, #18) (1987), Sharpe's Rifles (Sharpe, #6) (1988), Sharpe's Revenge (Sharpe, #19) (1989), Sharpe's Waterloo (Sharpe, #20) (1990), Sharpe's Devil (Sharpe, #22) (1992), Sharpe's Battle (Sharpe, #12) (1995), Sharpe's Tiger (Sharpe, #1) (1997), Sharpe's Triumph (Sharpe, #2) (1998), Sharpe's Fortress (Sharpe, #3) (1999), Sharpe's Prey (Sharpe, #5) (2000), Sharpe's Trafalgar (Sharpe, #4) (2000), Gallows Thief (2001), Heretic (The Grail Quest, #3) (2003), Sharpe's Havoc (Sharpe, #7) (2003), The Last Kingdom (The Saxon Stories, #1) (2004), Sharpe's Escape (Sharpe, #10) (2004), Sharpe's Fury (Sharpe, #11) (2005), The Pale Horseman (The Saxon Stories, #2) (2006), Sword Song (The Saxon Stories, #4) (2007), Lords of the North (The Saxon Stories, #3) (2007)