The Empty Throne

Cornwell, Bernard

ISBN 10 : 0007504195 ISBN 13 : 9780007504190

Editeur : HarperCollins, 2015

A propos du livre

Présentation de l'éditeur :

This eighth entry in New York Times bestselling author Bernard Cornwell's epic Saxon Tales series brings to life the harrowing and turbulent tale of a nation torn apart by sectarian and religious strife, a political struggle dominated by dynastic rivalries, and the remarkable strength that elevates some characters above their time.

 “My name is Uhtred. I am the son of Uhtred, who was the son of Uhtred . . .”

Britain, early tenth century AD: a time of change. There are new raids by the Vikings from Ireland, and turmoil among the Saxons over the leadership of Mercia. A younger generation is taking over.

Æthelred, the ruler of Mercia, is dying, leaving no legitimate heir. The West Saxons want their king, but Uhtred has long supported Æthelflaed, sister to King Edward of Wessex and widow of Æthelred. Widely loved and respected, Æthelflaed has all the makings of a leader—but could Saxon warriors ever accept a woman as their ruler? The stage is set for rivals to fight for the empty throne.

Uhtred is still suffering from the wounds he received in battle. To recover his strength he needs to find the sword that caused the injury, but lost amid the battle’s blood and mud, how could it be traced and who among the Vikings or Saxons might be holding it?

In the end it is one champion, one hero, who will destroy the new Viking threat to Mercia and ultimately decide the fate of England.

With this eighth entry in the epic Saxon Tales series, we are reminded once again why New York Times bestselling author Bernard Cornwell is “the most prolific and successful historical novelist in the world today” (Wall Street Journal).

Revue de presse :

“This novel easily stands alone, with perfectly choreographed battle scenes and political infighting . .. . The lusty, rollicking narrative.... is totally accessible and great good fun. Cornwell’s done it again. New readers: Draw a flagon of ale, and be prepared to find the first seven in the series.” (Kirkus)

“Excellent . .. Mysticism, history, brutality, muck, and mire combine to splendid effect in this compelling fictional version of the birth of a great nation.” (Booklist)

“Verdict: Once again, Cornwell perfectly mixes the history and personalities of tenth-century England with several doses of battles, trickery, and treachery. Is there a fan of historical fiction anywhere who has not yet read a Cornwell? If so, hook them on this series, and they will knight you.” (Library Journal)

“The Empty Throne is Cornwell’s best Uthred tale yet. If there is a throne for writers of this particular type of muscular historical fiction, then Cornwell is firmly wedged in it. And on this evidence, he is not budging.” (The Times (London))

“Cornwell once again shows his acknowledged mastery of fast-paced storytelling, full of exciting incident and an unflinching approach to bloodshed.” (Daily Mail)

“An effortlessly engaging ride.” (Mail on Sunday, EVENT Magazine)

À propos de cette édition

• Éditeur: HarperCollins
• Date d'édition: 2015
• ISBN 10: 0007504195
• ISBN 13: 9780007504190
• Reliure: Livre broché
• Nombre de pages: 352