Helpful Score: 3
Final book in Penman's trilogy about the conflict between 13th century Wales and England. Excellent historical fiction
Helpful Score: 1
Book 3 in a series...and probably the weakest of the three. I guess after reading Book 2 about Simon deMontfort, who was literally worshipped as a saint after his death, then the next "hero" (the Welsh prince Llweyn) has lots to live up to. For whatever reason (maybe ms Penman could not find much info on him?) he never really seems to come to life...there's no sense that he is particularly loved or admired by his own countrymen. not much detail about the family, either, though there's definitely not much "brotherly love" to be had. Overall, felt Ms Penman was brave to try to describe a chapter of history in Wales independent from England, but there just doesnt seem to be enough story to go on. Still enjoyable to read, just not her best.
From the back of the book: "Never forget, Llewelyn, that the world's greatest fool is a Welshman who trusts an English king." His father's words haunted the Prince of Wales, five years after his ally Simon de Montfort had lost his life and his cause to the English Crown. Now Llewelyn feared that his own dream--an independent, united Wales--would be lost to Edward I's desire to expand his English empire.
Here, alive from the pages of history, is the compelling tale of a Celtic society on a collision course with a feudal realm. With this last book in the extraordinary trilogy that began with Here Be Dragons and continued in Falls the Shadow, Sharon Kay Penman has written a beautiful and moving conclusion to her medieval saga. For everyone who has read the earlier books in this incomparable series or ever wanted to experience the rich tapestry of British history and lore, this bold and romantic adventure must be read.
Here, alive from the pages of history, is the compelling tale of a Celtic society on a collision course with a feudal realm. With this last book in the extraordinary trilogy that began with Here Be Dragons and continued in Falls the Shadow, Sharon Kay Penman has written a beautiful and moving conclusion to her medieval saga. For everyone who has read the earlier books in this incomparable series or ever wanted to experience the rich tapestry of British history and lore, this bold and romantic adventure must be read.
Excellent book. Excellent author.
From the cover: " 'Never forget, Llewely, that the world's greatest fool is a Welshman who trusts an English king.'
His father's words haunted the Prince of Wales, five years after his ally Simon de Montfort had lost his life and his cause to the English Crown. Now Llewely feared that his own dream -- an independent, united Wales -- would be lost to Edward I's desire to expand his English empire.
Here, alive from the pages of history, is the compelling tale of a Celtic society on a collision course with a feudal realm."
His father's words haunted the Prince of Wales, five years after his ally Simon de Montfort had lost his life and his cause to the English Crown. Now Llewely feared that his own dream -- an independent, united Wales -- would be lost to Edward I's desire to expand his English empire.
Here, alive from the pages of history, is the compelling tale of a Celtic society on a collision course with a feudal realm."
3rd book in Penman's "Welsh Trilogy" and a rousing conclusion. Researched to the 9th degree and written so well you think you can smell and touch the 13th century slice of life. Love this author.
