Review of The Broken Kingdom: Episode Two: Arthur’s Escape by Angus Donald

The Broken Kingdom: Episode Two: Arthur’s Escape by Angus Donald

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Reason to keep reading!

I got on board because I was interested in the serialized format. I am not disappointed. Donald is releasing this story in five to six-chapter episodes, about twenty thousand words each or about seventy pages. I think it’s a great idea. It’s a challenge and a promise that each episode will be entertaining and will make you come back for more. Donald rises to the challenge and keeps his promise.

This story is a fresh take on the Arthur legends with a well-woven mix of the historical and mythical elements of the era. The Romans have left Britain. Anglo-Saxon warriors are pouring in, looking for land and wealth. The Brithonic Kingdoms are too splintered to stop them. Yet there is a greater threat to the east that only a united Britain has a chance to withstand, and perhaps only one man with a very special sword can unite them.

Episode Two picks up in the devasting aftermath of Episode One. Arthur and his companions have been laid low with enemies all around them. They must swear absolute allegiance to each other if they’re going to survive and redeem themselves for their failed mission. It’s a matter of honor.

There’s a great rescue scene that I did not see coming, yet, once it came, I was stunned at how brilliantly the seeds had been planted in the narrative before. Great writing by Donald. This episode fleshes out more of the recognizable Arthur legends and characters. I can’t wait for Episode Three!



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