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"The Last Kingdom" by Bernard Cornwell Length: 5 hours and 30 min. ISBN: Listen to an excerpt with:     Windows Media Player     Real Player

Bernard Cornwell’s The Last Kingdom is a historical novel set in England around the 9th century AD. The story revolves around the life of Uhtred. A proud Saxon noble’s son, Uhtred is captured in a battle against vikings and then taken into slavery. He experiences viking culture first hand and eventually assimilates, while secretly dreaming of freeing his home and country from their rule.

Though Cornwell apparently “bends” historical events here and there to suit the needs of his tale, the novel is enjoyable and, as someone with little knowledge of this period, I found it very interesting to learn more. The clash between new (Christian) and old (Norse/Saxon) religions, the expections placed on youth in those times, the differing laws and customs between peoples, etc. all add depth and color.

This book is first and foremost an adventure novel, with battles, love, treachery, and honor. If this genre appeals to you, with a sprinkling of history thrown in for good measure, then I certainly think you’ll enjoy this book.

Tags: the last kingdom, bernard cornwell, fiction, historical novel, england, vikings, saxons, audiobook

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