-
The Cross and the Curse
- The Bernicia Chronicles, Book 2
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 14 hrs and 28 mins
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed

Get 2 free audiobooks during trial.
Buy for $18.02
No default payment method selected.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
Listeners also enjoyed...
-
The Serpent Sword
- The Bernicia Chronicles, Book 1
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 12 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Beobrand is compelled by his brother's almost-certain murder to embark on a quest for revenge in the war-ravaged kingdoms of Northumbria. The land is rife with danger, as warlords vie for supremacy and dominion. In the battles for control of the region, new oaths are made and broken, and loyalties are tested to the limits. With no patronage and no experience, Beobrand must form his own allegiances and learn to fight with sword and shield. Relentless in pursuit of his enemies, he faces challenges which transform him from a boy to a man.
-
-
Amazing story, needs a warning in the description.
- By Lisa Schilling on 04-12-17
By: Matthew Harffy
-
A Time for Swords
- A Time for Swords, Book 1
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 17 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Lindisfarne, AD 793. There had been portents - famine, whirlwinds, lightning from clear skies, serpents seen flying through the air. But when the raiders came, no one was prepared. They came from the North, their dragon-prowed longships gliding out of the dawn mist as they descended on the kingdom's most sacred site. It is 8th June AD 793, and with the pillage of the monastery on Lindisfarne, the Viking Age has begun. While his fellow monks flee before the Norse onslaught, one young novice stands his ground.
-
-
Overall a Good Story. I was SUPER IRRITATED as each person could
- By K. Wilson on 08-29-21
By: Matthew Harffy
-
Wolf of Wessex
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 10 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
AD 838. Deep in the forests of Wessex, Dunston's solitary existence is shattered when he stumbles on a mutilated corpse. Accused of the murder, Dunston must clear his name and keep the dead man's daughter alive in the face of savage pursuers desperate to prevent a terrible secret from being revealed. Rushing through Wessex, Dunston will need to use all the skills of survival garnered from a lifetime in the wilderness.
-
-
Great Read.
- By J.J. on 03-19-20
By: Matthew Harffy
-
Kin of Cain
- A Bernicia Tale
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 2 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Terror stalks the hills, moors and marshes of Bernicia. Livestock and men have been found ripped asunder, their bones gnawed, flesh gorged upon. People cower in their halls in fear of the monster that prowls the night. King Edwin sends his champions, Bassus, Octa and band of trusted thegns, to rid his people of this evil. Bassus leads the warriors into the chill wastes of the Northern winter, and they soon question whether they are the hunters or the prey.
-
-
ancient
- By bernard snipe on 05-08-20
By: Matthew Harffy
-
Viking Blood and Blade
- By: Peter Gibbons
- Narrated by: Nicholas Jordan
- Length: 9 hrs and 48 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
AD 865. The fierce Vikings stormed onto Saxon soil hungry for spoils, conquest, and vengeance for the death of Ragnar Lothbrok. Hundr, a Northman with a dog's name...a crew of battle hardened warriors...and Ivar the Boneless. Amidst the invasion of Saxon England by the sons of Ragnar Lothbrok, Hundr joins a crew of Viking warriors under the command of Einar the Brawler. Hundr fights to forge a warriors reputation under the glare of Ivar and his equally fearsome brothers, but to do that he must battle the Saxons and treachery from within the Viking army itself...
-
-
Good book, horrible narrator
- By Matthew Beach on 11-23-21
By: Peter Gibbons
-
Master of War Boxset
- Books 1-3
- By: David Gilman
- Narrated by: Gildart Jackson
- Length: 53 hrs and 4 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
England, 1346: For Thomas Blackstone, the choice is easy - dance on the end of a rope for a murder he did not commit, or take up his war bow and join the king's invasion. As he fights his way across northern France, Blackstone learns the brutal lessons of war - from the terror and confusion of his first taste of combat, to the savage realities of siege warfare.
-
-
Master of War (1-3)
- By teejay spina on 02-13-23
By: David Gilman
-
The Serpent Sword
- The Bernicia Chronicles, Book 1
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 12 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Beobrand is compelled by his brother's almost-certain murder to embark on a quest for revenge in the war-ravaged kingdoms of Northumbria. The land is rife with danger, as warlords vie for supremacy and dominion. In the battles for control of the region, new oaths are made and broken, and loyalties are tested to the limits. With no patronage and no experience, Beobrand must form his own allegiances and learn to fight with sword and shield. Relentless in pursuit of his enemies, he faces challenges which transform him from a boy to a man.
-
-
Amazing story, needs a warning in the description.
- By Lisa Schilling on 04-12-17
By: Matthew Harffy
-
A Time for Swords
- A Time for Swords, Book 1
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 17 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Lindisfarne, AD 793. There had been portents - famine, whirlwinds, lightning from clear skies, serpents seen flying through the air. But when the raiders came, no one was prepared. They came from the North, their dragon-prowed longships gliding out of the dawn mist as they descended on the kingdom's most sacred site. It is 8th June AD 793, and with the pillage of the monastery on Lindisfarne, the Viking Age has begun. While his fellow monks flee before the Norse onslaught, one young novice stands his ground.
-
-
Overall a Good Story. I was SUPER IRRITATED as each person could
- By K. Wilson on 08-29-21
By: Matthew Harffy
-
Wolf of Wessex
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 10 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
AD 838. Deep in the forests of Wessex, Dunston's solitary existence is shattered when he stumbles on a mutilated corpse. Accused of the murder, Dunston must clear his name and keep the dead man's daughter alive in the face of savage pursuers desperate to prevent a terrible secret from being revealed. Rushing through Wessex, Dunston will need to use all the skills of survival garnered from a lifetime in the wilderness.
-
-
Great Read.
- By J.J. on 03-19-20
By: Matthew Harffy
-
Kin of Cain
- A Bernicia Tale
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 2 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Terror stalks the hills, moors and marshes of Bernicia. Livestock and men have been found ripped asunder, their bones gnawed, flesh gorged upon. People cower in their halls in fear of the monster that prowls the night. King Edwin sends his champions, Bassus, Octa and band of trusted thegns, to rid his people of this evil. Bassus leads the warriors into the chill wastes of the Northern winter, and they soon question whether they are the hunters or the prey.
-
-
ancient
- By bernard snipe on 05-08-20
By: Matthew Harffy
-
Viking Blood and Blade
- By: Peter Gibbons
- Narrated by: Nicholas Jordan
- Length: 9 hrs and 48 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
AD 865. The fierce Vikings stormed onto Saxon soil hungry for spoils, conquest, and vengeance for the death of Ragnar Lothbrok. Hundr, a Northman with a dog's name...a crew of battle hardened warriors...and Ivar the Boneless. Amidst the invasion of Saxon England by the sons of Ragnar Lothbrok, Hundr joins a crew of Viking warriors under the command of Einar the Brawler. Hundr fights to forge a warriors reputation under the glare of Ivar and his equally fearsome brothers, but to do that he must battle the Saxons and treachery from within the Viking army itself...
-
-
Good book, horrible narrator
- By Matthew Beach on 11-23-21
By: Peter Gibbons
-
Master of War Boxset
- Books 1-3
- By: David Gilman
- Narrated by: Gildart Jackson
- Length: 53 hrs and 4 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
England, 1346: For Thomas Blackstone, the choice is easy - dance on the end of a rope for a murder he did not commit, or take up his war bow and join the king's invasion. As he fights his way across northern France, Blackstone learns the brutal lessons of war - from the terror and confusion of his first taste of combat, to the savage realities of siege warfare.
-
-
Master of War (1-3)
- By teejay spina on 02-13-23
By: David Gilman
-
God of Vengeance
- The Rise of Sigurd 1
- By: Giles Kristian
- Narrated by: Philip Stevens
- Length: 15 hrs and 29 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Norway, AD 785. It began with the betrayal of a lord by a king.... King Gorm puts Jarl Harald's family to the sword but makes one fatal mistake - he fails to kill Harald's youngest son, Sigurd. His kin slain, his village seized and its people taken as slaves, Sigurd wonders if the gods have forsaken him. Hunted by powerful men, he is unsure who to trust, and yet he has a small band of loyal followers at his side.
-
-
Really good!
- By David Groveman on 09-29-16
By: Giles Kristian
-
Viking Slave
- Dragonheart, Book 1
- By: Griff Hosker
- Narrated by: Marston York
- Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A young Saxon boy and his mother are captured in a Viking raid. Fate transforms his destiny and, thanks to an ageing one-armed warrior, he wins his freedom and becomes one with the Vikings. Clan rivalries force Dragonheart and his new Jarl to sail the seas searching for a new home. Landing on the Isle of Man, they must fight for their very survival with enemies old and new seeking their destruction.
-
-
Stabby McStabface
- By JE on 05-20-23
By: Griff Hosker
-
Blood Eye
- By: Giles Kristian
- Narrated by: Simon Prebble
- Length: 11 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In a thrilling adventure of brotherhood, warfare, and treachery, Giles Kristian takes us into ninth-century England, a world of darkness, epic conflict, and an unforgiving God served by powerful priests. On ships shaped like dragons, bristling with oars and armor, Jarl Sigurd and his fierce Norsemen have come in search of riches. And riches they are promised, by an English ruler who sends Sigurd and his wolves to steal a holy manuscript from another kingdom.
-
-
ODIN DESPISES WEAKNESS
- By Jim "The Impatient" on 01-01-14
By: Giles Kristian
-
English Knight
- Anarchy, Book 1
- By: Griff Hosker
- Narrated by: Malk Williams
- Length: 8 hrs and 54 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The throne of England is slipping from King Henry’s grasp. His only son has drowned in the English Channel, and the predators are gathering ready to devour both England and Normandy. When the last of King Harold’s housecarls returns to England to die, he brings with him a reluctant hero who will save the kingdom. Alfraed, son of Ridley, is the first of a new breed; he is an English knight.
-
-
INSTA-KNIGHT - JUST ADD CONFLICT
- By Craig on 04-14-22
By: Griff Hosker
-
Sword for Hire
- Border Knight, Book 1
- By: Griff Hosker
- Narrated by: Marston York
- Length: 9 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When his father is killed at Arsuf protecting King Richard, Thomas is knighted. His hopes of inheriting his family's manor are dashed when Prince John takes power in his brother's absence. With a handful of men, Sir Thomas is forced to travel to Sweden where he joins the Jarl Birger Brosa fighting the Estonians, Karelians and Slavs. Fighting in the harsh environment of a Baltic winter makes Sir Thomas and his men stronger. There he learns of further treachery and dishonour among Bishops, Kings and Princes who value thrones more than men.
-
-
Good book
- By patrick on 11-09-23
By: Griff Hosker
-
Fin Gall - A Novel of Viking Age Ireland
- Norsemen Saga Series #1
- By: James L. Nelson
- Narrated by: Shaun Grindell
- Length: 13 hrs and 2 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
For centuries, the Vikings have swept out of the Norse countries and fallen on whatever lands they could reach aboard their longships, and few could resist the power of their violent onslaught. They came at first to plunder and then to settle, an encroachment fiercely resisted wherever they went. Such was the case in the southern lands of Ireland. En route to the Viking longphort there, known as Dubh-linn, Thorgrim Night Wolf and Ornolf the Restless stumble across an Irish ship.
-
-
Tolerable with this trick
- By Victoria on 05-10-16
By: James L. Nelson
-
Crécy: The Age of the Archer
- Sir John Hawkwood, Book 1
- By: Griff Hosker
- Narrated by: Marston York
- Length: 8 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A hero’s journey begins in an exhilarating new series by Griff Hosker. In 1335 the Black Death was just 13 years away from England, but there were other threats and dangers. Young John Hawkwood is forced to leave his home and seek a life in London. There he learns how to survive and, more importantly, how to fight. Leaving his life as an apprentice tailor he follows the army and King Edward to fight the Scots. He has a skill: he can not only use a bow, but he can use a sword and his mind.
-
-
If you like Bernard Cornwell
- By the don on 03-17-21
By: Griff Hosker
-
The Last Kingdom
- By: Bernard Cornwell
- Narrated by: Jonathan Keeble
- Length: 13 hrs and 28 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The story is seen through the eyes of Uhtred, a dispossessed nobleman, who is captured as a child by the Danes and then raised by them so that, by the time the Northmen begin their assault on Wessex, Alfred's kingdom and the last territory in English hands, Uhtred almost thinks of himself as a Dane.
-
-
Great series of books
- By Joshua on 10-02-15
By: Bernard Cornwell
-
Hrolf the Viking
- Norman Genesis, Book 1
- By: Griff Hosker
- Narrated by: Mark Elstob
- Length: 8 hrs and 28 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Hrolf the young Viking has left the service of Jarl Dragonheart and sails with Jarl Gunnar Thorfinnson. When they find a home off the Frankish coast they begin to accumulate a vast fortune which earns them the enmity of other Vikings. The novel culminates in a bloody battle where Viking fights Viking but Hrolf begins to fulfill his destiny as Hrolf the Horseman!
-
-
June 23
- By Davey on 06-21-23
By: Griff Hosker
-
The Way of Kings
- The Stormlight Archive, Book 1
- By: Brandon Sanderson
- Narrated by: Kate Reading, Michael Kramer
- Length: 45 hrs and 30 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Roshar is a world of stone and storms. Uncanny tempests of incredible power sweep across the rocky terrain so frequently that they have shaped ecology and civilization alike. Animals hide in shells, trees pull in branches, and grass retracts into the soilless ground. Cities are built only where the topography offers shelter. It has been centuries since the fall of the 10 consecrated orders known as the Knights Radiant, but their Shardblades and Shardplate remain: mystical swords and suits of armor.
-
-
It doesn't get any better than this!
- By Robert on 10-26-12
-
The Last Berserker
- Fire Born 1
- By: Angus Donald
- Narrated by: Ade Dimberline
- Length: 12 hrs and 55 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
771AD, Northern Europe. Bjarki Bloodhand and Tor Hildarsdottir are journeying south into Saxony. Their destination is the Irminsul, the One Tree that links the Nine Worlds of the Middle-Realm. In this most holy place, they hope to learn how to summon their animal spirits so they can enter the ranks of the legendary berserkir: the elite frenzied fighters of the North.
-
-
Great description of berserker concepts
- By Gael Dalton on 01-06-22
By: Angus Donald
-
Divergent
- By: Veronica Roth
- Narrated by: Emma Galvin
- Length: 11 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue - Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is - she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.
-
-
It's not for me. Loved it anyway.
- By Grant on 05-24-12
By: Veronica Roth
Publisher's summary
634AD. Anglo-Saxon Britain. A gripping, action-packed historical thriller and second instalment in the Bernicia Chronicles. Perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell.
Warlords battle across Britain to become the first king of the English. After a stunning victory against the native Waelisc, Beobrand returns a hero. His valour is rewarded with wealth and land by Oswald, king of Northumbria. He retires to his new estate with his bride only to find himself surrounded by enemies old and new.
With treachery and death on all sides, Beobrand fears he will lose all he holds dear. On a quest for revenge and redemption, he accepts the mantle of lord, leading his men into the darkest of nights and the bloodiest of battles.
More from the same
What listeners say about The Cross and the Curse
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- C Harlow
- 05-14-17
not as good as the first but not bad
Book dragged on didnt really ever keep me as intrested as most book in this genre but will listen to the next one.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Pete
- 03-29-20
good little historical fiction
after reading Bernard Cornwells Sexson series thought I would give another similar series a try. This one though not as good as Cornwell, in my opinion, is still a good read. Author grabs real events and spins his fictional characters in them. heading to book 3 now!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Darth Vinny
- 07-31-19
Wonderful fulfilling story
So far the Bernicia chronicles and Barbary Edwards have not disappointed !!! Great story filled with every kind of emotion you can expect! Along with that emotion barnaby brings life and personality to each and every character as an individual. Very excited for the rest of the story!!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Edward
- 07-01-17
A Struggle
Any additional comments?
This was a struggle to read since the main character, Beobrand, becomes unlikable. That is going to be hard to change for the 3rd book. Overall not a bad story, somewhat predicable.. but I have never been fond of characters that have anger issues and fly off into a rage and hurt people without thinking or make situations worse for all those around just because they can't stop and think for 10 seconds... right now, at the end of book 2, I would have no issues if someone took Beobrand out.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- PrettyinPink
- 10-07-23
Even Better Than The First Book!
I enjoyed book two even more than book one. I listened to it in less than 2 days. Purchasing book 3 right now!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Kelli Pool
- 05-22-23
Amazing work
I couldn’t stop listening to this book. Very well written and narrated. I highly recommend it.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Anonymous User
- 03-03-22
Captivating from beginning to end.
It was a challenge to have to stop listening when need be. I enjoyed this book just as much as book 1 and I'm looking forward to the entirety of this series. Absolutely amazing narration.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Amazon Customer
- 04-01-21
Unfortunately miserable and predictable
Unfortunately miserable and predictable. Just when you become hopeful that there may be a turn story the same simple theme continues. Love the genre but this story falls short of holding one's attention.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Dr. John W. Lott
- 01-23-21
Great novel
It is a pleasure to continue reading this story of a young man’s journey through these tough times.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- paul goldberg
- 03-10-20
A good story with weakness in dialogue
Harffy tell a good narration. He weaves a good story capturing scenery, decent character development, and a quick moving narrative. It’s a bloody unruly time. Dialogue is at times trite and the story at times is too predictable but overall, worth the listen if you enjoy historical fiction set in this time period.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Simon
- 12-28-17
A Series Developing Substance and Momentum
The second of Matthew Harffy’s excellent Bernicia Chronicles and may there be plenty more to come. Having proved himself as a warrior it might seem as if he’s in for a restful time but with kingdoms at stake and old enemies still lurking Beobrand is put to the test in almost every way imaginable. With his rise through the ranks comes greater riches, power and responsibility. As with the series opener this is another fast moving historical fiction with plenty of action. The Mead Halls are brimming with intrigue and there is a climactic encounter with an old enemy . . . though if Beobrand thinks that is the end of his difficulties in that regard he is sorely mistaken.
The superstitious nature of the times gets a good outing and Beobrand has to deal with some rather noisy neighbours. The church comes more to the fore with the author’s license being used to the full on some real historical characters.
In all it’s a fine continuation of the series and if like me you really liked the first one it seems it’s good news because there is plenty more to come!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
6 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- STENSDEN
- 02-03-21
will not be reading the next in
3/4s of the book could have been written by Barbara Cartland or any similar bodice ripper scribbler!
Beobrand has turned into a 'Knight in shining armour' stereotype with flowery language and various damsels in distress.
The battle scenes are almost ok but lack any depth.
Disappointed!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
4 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Storm
- 02-02-17
Great listen!
Longtime friends and followers of mine might know that I endorsed Harffy’s debut novel, The Serpent Sword. That was a self-published affair which garnered enough interest and sales that Matthew was taken on by a major publisher, Aria, and this is the resultant sequel.
The tale is quite straightforward with love, action and beautifully written prose aplenty and, combined with a really good narrator, makes for a great listen. It gets especially nasty (in a good way!) about two-thirds in and things really start to come together there.
I felt a little as if this was a bridge between the first book and the next, setting things up for what’s to come for the rest of the series. That’s no bad thing and there is enough to keep your interest up throughout although I did miss a bit of humour. The events are dark and gritty and the characters know it – but it would have been nice to have a bit of childish banter between the men just to lighten things. As it is, the word I kept thinking of as I listened was “earnest”. The dialogue is earnest, the characters are earnest and the prose is too. I was wishing someone would fart or stand in a dog turd but sadly there’s no slapstick silliness here!
This series has been compared to Bernard Cornwell’s Uhtred stories (by me, actually, in that previously-mentioned endorsement!) but, although settings and time period are similar, the writing is completely different in The Cross and the Curse. Fans of one author will enjoy the other I’m sure, as both are absolutely brilliant.
Steven A. McKay, author of the Forest Lord series
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
3 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Joe McGuchan
- 12-30-21
boring and frustrating
I really wanted to like this book, since I enjoy the setting and wish there was more fiction set around this time, but I just found it incredibly exhausting. The characters are flat, the women seem to exist only to be raped and murdered, and Beobrand lacks any shred of humour, kindness, or tenderness that would make him endearing. I'm not sure why I should care about this man who does nothing but murder and hate people. I won't be contributing this series.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Warren leath
- 10-08-21
2nd and last Harffy book
historical link interesting but story predictable and draw out....
each of the key points painfully told.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Clinical Hypnotherapist
- 03-21-22
Formulaic, stereotype dark ages troubled hero
Had the format been print you skim read the the hero's inner conflict with some arcain Norse gods. It is just so tedious so fast forwarding and having to pause to see if it back on storyline. Too many writer are now padding their storyline with lengthy copy of the hero's neurotic/psychotic thoughts.
When you consider the work in its totality the storyline can too often seem like a string vest rather than a properly tailored suit..
If I had a genuine interst in Dark ages spirits/gods demons I woul seek some tome dedicated to explaining the nuances and foible's of such entities. I listened to have the audion and rechon the I fast forwarded 30%.
I have read and listened to a number of the author's books and noticed there was an increasing inclusion of Norse gods/spirit interwoven with the storyline.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Gully Foyle
- 01-04-22
One up from fan fiction
They’re not Bernard Cornwell level and the heroes dialogue would make the Mighty Thor blush but I’ve read worse.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Mr H.
- 08-06-21
Getting a bit emotionally heavy for an action book
I am enjoying the series but this book was a bit difficult due to follow as the main character spends half his time with huge doubts about everything he does or spends chapters grieving over lost loves or makes ridiculous decisions and offends people who bizarrely forgive him.
Just hope book three gets better.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Just a reader
- 03-25-23
Sexual violence as THE main driver of the plot
This is the third book I've listened to by Harfly, and the second in the Bernicia series. Again, the entire premise of the book is 'man seeks vengeance for the rape of his loved one'. Again, multiple assaults are graphically described, again the threat of rape always looms the moment a woman enters the pages. Again, women are only described by their beauty and how much they are at risk of being raped.
Totally done with this writer and regret spending my credit, even though it was in a 2 for 1 sale. This is nowhere near the quality I was hoping to find. Using rape as the constant plot point is bad taste, but also bad writing.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Derfel C
- 09-13-22
Great story telling!!
Clearly influenced by Bernard Cornwell, but that is no bad thing. I would say that the story telling is less predictable then BC's however and the first 2 books in the series (including this one) have been simply superb. Also the narration by Barnaby Edwards just puts the icing on the cake!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Thomas
- 02-27-17
Overly depressing and dull
Really tried to enjoy this book. But there was far too much focus on death and depression. Sure these were brutal times.. but bring on the adventure
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Karen
- 11-23-21
Loving THIS serie
Enjoying every word the suspense and
becoming part of the story of those dark ages
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- James Alexander
- 06-24-21
Action Packed
A most ejnoyable novel, the narration was superb and authentic.
Too many thrills and battles to keep the reader/listener enthralled.
James Alexander
Adelaide
South Australia
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Anonymous User
- 03-17-21
Story evoles
Characters are developing, story is good if a little predictable and the dialogue has improved. on to number three.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Anonymous User
- 02-13-20
I'm Hooked!
I am a committed Scarrow, Cornwell and Iggulden devotee and also love LeCarre and Forsyth for the spy stuff. This book is better than book one!
Firstly, the narrator is top notch. Secondly Harfly is a very well researched history buff complementing this by a very skilled ability to develop his characters. This allows us to experience their hardship and turmoil in the 7th Century in their boots. Thoroughly entertaining and I want more.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Platykat
- 06-06-18
I am still not certain about the quality!
As I said above, I am still not certain about the quality of this work. I like Beobrand and enjoy his triumphs and losses.
The narrator does a good job with all of the accents, both male and female. Sadly, this isn't often so in all audible boosk. Some narrators have destroyed all interest in the outcome of the story for me. One can't express deeply enough how much a good narrator adds to the enjoyment of the novel.
Unfortunately, I am still not totally engaged with the outcomes of the various participants in the story. The only character who caught my imagination dies during this book. On the other hand, I am about to purchase Book 3.
Curiosity regarding Beobrand's adventures leads me on, as I am sure it will you.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
Related to this topic
-
The Serpent Sword
- The Bernicia Chronicles, Book 1
- By: Matthew Harffy
- Narrated by: Barnaby Edwards
- Length: 12 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Beobrand is compelled by his brother's almost-certain murder to embark on a quest for revenge in the war-ravaged kingdoms of Northumbria. The land is rife with danger, as warlords vie for supremacy and dominion. In the battles for control of the region, new oaths are made and broken, and loyalties are tested to the limits. With no patronage and no experience, Beobrand must form his own allegiances and learn to fight with sword and shield. Relentless in pursuit of his enemies, he faces challenges which transform him from a boy to a man.
-
-
Amazing story, needs a warning in the description.
- By Lisa Schilling on 04-12-17
By: Matthew Harffy
-
God's Hammer
- Hakon's Saga, Book 1
- By: Eric Schumacher
- Narrated by: Shaun Grindell
- Length: 12 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
It is 935 A.D., and the North is in turmoil. King Harald Fairhair has died, leaving the High Seat of the realm to his murderous son, Erik Bloodaxe. To solidify his claim, Erik ruthlessly disposes of all claimants to his throne, save one: his youngest brother Hakon. Erik's surviving enemies send a ship to Wessex, where the Christian King Athelstan is raising Hakon. Unable to avoid his fate, he returns to the Viking North to face his brother and claim his birthright, only to discover that victory will demand sacrifices beyond his wildest nightmares.
-
-
A story of the Vikings and the Christians
- By Carolynn on 11-14-18
By: Eric Schumacher
-
The Mists of Avalon
- By: Marion Zimmer Bradley
- Narrated by: Davina Porter
- Length: 50 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A posthumous recipient of the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement, Marion Zimmer Bradley reinvented - and rejuvenated - the King Arthur mythos with her extraordinary Mists of Avalon series. In this epic work, Bradley follows the arc of the timeless tale from the perspective of its previously marginalized female characters: Celtic priestess Morgaine, Gwenhwyfar, and High Priestess Viviane.
-
-
Davina Porter brings an old favorite back to life!
- By Carolina on 07-13-12
-
Blood Eye
- By: Giles Kristian
- Narrated by: Simon Prebble
- Length: 11 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In a thrilling adventure of brotherhood, warfare, and treachery, Giles Kristian takes us into ninth-century England, a world of darkness, epic conflict, and an unforgiving God served by powerful priests. On ships shaped like dragons, bristling with oars and armor, Jarl Sigurd and his fierce Norsemen have come in search of riches. And riches they are promised, by an English ruler who sends Sigurd and his wolves to steal a holy manuscript from another kingdom.
-
-
ODIN DESPISES WEAKNESS
- By Jim "The Impatient" on 01-01-14
By: Giles Kristian
-
Macbeth: A Novel
- By: A. J. Hartley, David Hewson
- Narrated by: Alan Cumming
- Length: 9 hrs and 43 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance