Helpful Score: 6
This is the first book by Bernard Cornwell that I've read. It is not for the faint of heart. Full of realistic details of the battles and hardships of the time. I found the details of blood, guts, and gore, a bit too much for me! Having said that, he is an excellent writer! I would not have finished the book, if he wasn't. The end is a little anti-climatical, but I believe it's because you are expected to continue the journey in the next book....I probably won't.
Helpful Score: 3
This is the first Bernard Cornwell book I have read. It is a fascinating look into the 14th century England. Highly recommended to those, like me, who enjoy historical fiction. It is also very historically accurate which makes it even better. Thank you to PBS for the referral as I had not heard of this author before!
Elizabeth B. (Cattriona) -
Helpful Score: 2
A gritty but enjoyable tale in Cornwell's usual style, about a young peasant man who is forced to leave his home, and becomes a mercenary archer. Cornwell's research, particularly on archery, make this title an enjoyable read, even for those of us not "into" his Sharpe's series (which I am not).
Helpful Score: 2
The Archer's Tale by Bernard Cornwell was read for a reading challenge. I truly enjoy books when the author spends time describing the research and/or how the tale is developed. It's fun to get into the author's mind. This book was fun to read and I can see how people get into Cornwell's writing. The battles described in Archer are fantastic and realistic. I felt that I knew the characters in this book and am looking forward to the next volume in this series and seeing what happens to Thomas, the archer in The Vagabond. My recommendation: Take time to read this one.
Helpful Score: 1
Thoroughly enjoyed the book. I'm a big Bernard Cornwell fan. The book was action packed, detailed in its historical explanations of the time and place. I give the book an 8 out of 10.
