This is the sequel to 'The Winter King' and the second book in Bernard Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles.
Once again, it is an Arthurian story based around more historically accurate medieval times rather then the romanticised Arthurian legends so many of us love. This version is told from the point of view of Derfel, a former pagan warrior turned monk, who is transcribing the stories for Igraine the current Queen of Powys some years after they occur.
Mordred, Urther's legitimate son, is not yet on the throne and Arthur, the War Lord, is battling against the Saxons to help keep Britain safe. Merlin is on a quest to find the sacred Treasures of Britain where dangers are of the spirit world as well as the physical one. Trouble is always there though and the tensions between the new Christians and the older pagan faiths are on the rise. This is particularly enhanced when new gods for far away lands are also introduced. The crown is not safe despite Arthur's best efforts and loyalties are torn.
A worthy sequel to the first book. I would recommend reading them in order though. For anyone who likes a medieval adventure or any Arthurian enthusiast who would enjoy a very different view point.
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