Soldiers of Christ

by Jon Byrne

In a land torn by crusade and rebellion, honour is earned in blood.

1205. Richard Fitz Simon has fled England after his title was usurped, joining the Livonian Order of Swordbrothers – a German brotherhood of warrior-monks fighting to bring the word of God to the pagan frontier. After slaying the Lithuanian champion at the Battle of Rodenpois, Richard is celebrated by the Order and their Semigallian allies.

Yet his position remains precarious. Jealous rivals question his right to stand among the brotherhood, and his master, Knight-brother Rudolf, is enraged by Richard’s disobedience. When dark secrets from Lübeck resurface, Richard also finds himself at odds with Bishop Albert, head of the Christian mission in Livonia. As he struggles to reconcile faith, duty and identity, he is drawn into a brutal world of suspicion and bloodshed.

Sent on an expedition to build a castle deep in the wilderness, Richard soon sees tensions erupt – and the path he has chosen threatens to destroy everything he has fought to become.

Soldiers of Christ is Book Two of The Northern Crusader Chronicles, a gritty, historically grounded series focused on realism, moral ambiguity, and the brutal realities of medieval warfare.

Genres: Historical Fiction

320 pages, Paperback

Published April 28, 2026

About the author

Jon Byrne, originally from London, now lives with his German family by a lake in Bavaria with stunning views of the Alps. As well as writing, he works as a translator for a local IT company and occasionally as a lumberjack. He has studied the medieval world for over twenty years, building up a comprehensive personal library and a particular interest in the often-overlooked Northern Crusades.

Sword Brethren is Book One of The Northern Crusader Chronicles, a gritty, historically grounded series focused on realism, moral ambiguity, and the brutal realities of medieval warfare.

Written for readers who value authenticity and atmosphere over romanticised adventure, the novel explores a largely forgotten crusading frontier, culminating in the first of many confrontations in a harsh wilderness of forest and swamp.

Readers who enjoy the historical detail of authors such as Bernard Cornwell, Conn Iggulden, or Ben Kane may find familiar ground here.

Reviews

[Karen Siddall · Rating 5 out of 5]

The riveting story of imprisoned knight-brother Richard Fitz Simon continues as Prince Nevsky seeks peace between his country and the Baltic crusaders.

Soldiers of Christ is the second suspense-filled novel in author Jon Byrne’s riveting historical fiction series, The Northern Crusader Chronicles, about a betrayed and dispossessed English lord, Richard Fitz Simon, and his adventures as a knight-brother with the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, fighting in the Baltic Crusades. Severely wounded and captured in a disastrously failed battle against the Russian Prince Alexander Nevsky, he is allowed to pen his memoirs as a memento to be sent to his son, a child begotten during his youth in Lübeck. As his extraordinary tale is revealed, it captures the interest and imagination of the young prince, who eventually draws the recovering Richard into his negotiations for peace between his county and the crusaders from the Latin Church.

The story unfolds in dual timelines: during Richard’s current situation as a prisoner in the summer of 1242 and his earlier life while a sergeant-brother in the Order of the Swordbrothers in Riga, Livonia, from 1205 through 1209. The author’s depictions of medieval life are fascinating, creating vivid, immersive impressions of brutally harsh times. The living conditions, for not only the brothers but the entire populace, are stark, with food, shelter, and safety always at the minimum. The daily routine of life in the Order is rigid, relieved only by the chance to wage war. Well-choreographed battle scenes put readers smack in the middle of the chaos, brutality, death, and destruction.

The imprisoned Richard, looking back and dictating his words to the disgruntled Irish scribe, Fergus, is an old man at 53, while he is only 16 and a survivor of his first battle against the pagans when his narrative picks up. While nominally viewed as a boy by the Order, he is still expected to work, fight, and potentially die like the older men. Richard is relentlessly persecuted by his master, Rudolf, and Wolfgang, a fellow sergeant-brother, throughout his service, and he plans and retaliates whenever possible, with the help of sympathetic companions. He is often in trouble with the Order’s command as a result of his temper and his reactions to the constant provocations. Although they are a religious order of fighting knights, the Swordbrothers are often accurately described as no better than a band of brigands. Their mission to convert the pagan populations of faraway lands as part of the Northern Crusades in the Baltics is questionable, especially when viewed through a modern lens. There is a lot of death and destruction wreaked in the name of Christ.

To aid in readers’ enjoyment, the author has provided a comprehensive list of characters appearing or mentioned in the book, many of whom are actual historical figures. Chapters are grouped into parts and anchored in time and place by the associated dates and settings of the ensuing events. While this is the second book in the series, the author provides a very good recap of the story to date, so new readers will still enjoy and understand this compelling page-turner. However, the previous novel, Sword Brethren, was a 5-star read for me, and also a riveting tale of family, betrayal, and resilience, and not to be missed by readers who enjoy compelling sagas of action-filled historical fiction.

I recommend SOLDIERS OF CHRIST to readers of historical fiction, especially those interested in the relatively ignored Northern Crusades.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from Reedsy Discovery.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://sarahreads4.wordpress.com/202...

[R.K. Emery · Rating 4.75 out of 5]

There is a rawness to Soldiers of Christ that makes it stand out. Jon Byrne places Richard Fitz Simon in a world where faith and ambition.

Richard's journey is particularly interesting because he is an outsider trying to prove that he belongs. His strained relationships with those in authority and the resurfacing of secrets from Lübeck keep him walking a precarious line.

The story successfully combines military action with character-driven conflict and historical intrigue.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed Soldiers of Christ by Jon Byrne. It’s gritty, raw and feels very real no sugar coating at all.
Richard is a great main character, flawed but easy to root for, and you can really feel the pressure he’s under the whole time. The setting is harsh and immersive, and the tension never really lets up.
Not just about battles either. it’s about loyalty, identity and trying to find where you belong.
Definitely one to pick up if you like your historical fiction a bit darker!

[The Coffee Pot Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Order of Swordbrothers had changed forever. Things would never be the same again."

Soldiers of Christ by Jon Byrne takes you on crusade, but not to the scorching heat of the Holy Land. No, this thrilling novel – the sequel to the riveting adventure, Sword Brethren – takes you to the frozen north, to the Baltics.

We follow the story of Richard Fitz Simon, who had lost his inheritance when his uncle killed Richard's father, then went after him. After having to flee England for the continent, he ended up in Lübeck. But at age 14, his troubles were only just beginning in Sword Brethren.

Fast forward a couple of years to Soldiers of Christ. Firmly based in Riga with the Livonian Swordbrothers as a sergeant-brother, Richard is serving Rudolf, a noble but arrogant knight-brother, who has it in for him at every opportunity. Trying to keep his head down is not easy for a hothead like Richard, and when Rudolf beats him up, he swears revenge. Which he gets later in the novel, leading to even more serious trouble for our young hero.

But it's not only Rudolf he has to worry about. His enemy Wolfgang, a bully who reminds him at every opportunity that he's not a German like the rest of them, also sets traps, into which Richard usually barges with relish. And then there's Bishop Albert, who is constantly petitioned by the merchants of Lübeck to deliver Richard for justice of events in that city two years previously.

So, in Soldiers of Christ, young Richard still has to tread carefully – which is not one of the lad's strengths.

Richard is sent into battles against local Pagan tribes, and to villages where the brotherhood helps build churches for the converted. But with tribes pitched against each other, and outsiders as well as Bishop Albert vying for valuable land, the brethren have their work cut out.

And as for Richard – he feels divided. On one hand he's keen to become a knight-brother, as befitting his station as a baron's son; on the other, he has a crush on young Margret, whose life he saved on the journey east. Readers must remember – he is a teenager, after all...

Whilst the older Richard – held captive by Prince Alexander of Novgorod, who is keen to hear of his adventures – reminisces of the past, it is the young Richard who features mostly in this novel.

Richard is slowly growing in character, and we witness his development as he blunders through attacks and sinister plots. His inner anger unleashed occasionally, he still doesn't quite feel at home with the brotherhood, whose duties involve praying several times a day. Happiest in the saddle on the road, he revels in the adventures and scrapes he gets himself into.

Whilst we sometimes want to shake him when he gets himself into trouble, we must not forget his young age. Having had to fend for himself, his anger at the injustice done to him keeps simmering just beneath the surface. But he's also astute enough to realise that he has little chance to regain his inheritance in England, so he has to make the best of the situation.

As he grows up, he also becomes more aware of the policies of the crusaders, and he finds himself disapproving them. When he encounters friendly Pagans and treacherous believers, he begins to realise that the world is not black and white, and he questions his already fragile faith.

But ultimately, it's the sense of belonging that keeps Richard in the brotherhood, with his friends. He has nowhere else to go. But danger is never far...

Byrne's distinctive narrative style reels you in, as you follow Richard's journey. The pace increases in scenes of great tension, and slows when Richard is stuck at the brotherhood's commandery in Riga, with its slower way of life. This allows readers to reflect on events.

The research undertaken is incredible, and the author brings the northern regions to life in great detail, with their vast, frozen landscapes, particularly in winter, their trading routes across the Baltic sea, and the regional politics and squabbles. The novel features several real characters who were involved with the order and its duties, which works well alongside the fictional Richard and his friends. One major character's gruesome end is portrayed particularly realistically, though not gratuitously. And the battles add a grittiness to the reading experience, showing the rough conditions these men faced, and the punishments they meted out.

The Northern Crusades make for a fascinating historical backdrop that is compelling to follow. Jon Byrne's engrossing adventures bring them to the fore, and readers won't be disappointed. With three-dimensional characters, political intrigues, stunning landscapes, and personal vendettas, this brilliant series has everything historical fiction novels should have, and more. Give it a try!

Highly recommended.

Review by Cathie Dunn.

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jon Byrne's "Soldiers of Christ" is one of those rare historical novels that quietly draws readers into its world until the modern day simply slips away. Rich in historical authenticity and populated by memorable characters, it is a novel that repays patience and lingers long after the final page has been turned. Although the second novel in the Sword Brethren series, it stands confidently on its own. Readers discovering Richard for the first time are given all they need to become fully invested in his story, while those already familiar with the first novel will undoubtedly appreciate the deeper layers woven throughout the series.

Watching Richard mature is one of the novel's greatest pleasures. This is not simply another chapter in his adventures, but a thoughtful exploration of a young man whose youthful ambition gradually gives way to hard-won wisdom. Byrne charts Richard's growth with extraordinary subtlety. His greatest victories are not won with his sword, but through the hard-earned lessons he learns about loyalty, justice, friendship, leadership and the burdens of responsibility. Every challenge shapes him and every hardship leaves its mark until the eager young novice becomes a man truly worthy of the white mantle he has long aspired to wear.

One of the things I admired most about Byrne's writing is the confidence he places in his readers. Rather than explaining every motivation or underlining every emotional beat, he allows his characters to reveal themselves through their actions, rewarding readers who enjoy drawing their own conclusions. Master Wenno commands respect not because the author tells us he is a good leader, but because we witness his fairness, wisdom and unwavering sense of duty. Likewise, Otto's loyalty, Berthold's quiet compassion and Dieter's steady integrity emerge naturally through countless small interactions that build into fully realised and thoroughly believable characters. Even the antagonists are afforded convincing motivations, making them feel unsettlingly human rather than simply villainous.

What impressed me just as much was Byrne's exploration of leadership and authority. Throughout Richard's experiences, he encounters men who inspire loyalty through fairness and integrity, alongside those who rely upon fear and cruelty. Byrne never offers easy answers, instead allowing readers to draw their own conclusions as Richard gradually learns that true leadership is earned rather than demanded. It is a thoughtful exploration of power, responsibility and conscience that adds remarkable depth to the novel.

Equally impressive is Byrne's ability to immerse readers in the daily rhythms of medieval Livonia. Battles certainly have their place, but they are only one thread in a far richer story. Administrative duties, chapter meetings, religious observances, political negotiations and the endless practicalities of frontier life all receive equal attention. They do far more than serve as a backdrop for adventure, creating a world that feels genuinely inhabited. Byrne writes with quiet confidence, never rushing his story or sacrificing character for spectacle. Instead, he allows relationships, tensions and moral dilemmas to unfold naturally, rewarding readers who take the time to savour the journey. It is the sort of novel that invites a second reading, not because anything is unclear, but because so much careful foreshadowing and subtle character development reveals itself in hindsight.

Perhaps most impressive of all is Byrne's refusal to sensationalise history. The shocking events that unfold carry such emotional weight precisely because they arise organically from the story rather than existing solely for dramatic effect. When tragedy strikes, it is presented with quiet honesty, reminding readers that history rarely pauses for grief before life continues its relentless march forward. This authenticity gives the novel much of its emotional power.

Supported by impeccable research, "Soldiers of Christ" never feels burdened by historical detail. Byrne wears his considerable knowledge lightly, allowing the period to unfold effortlessly through character, dialogue and atmosphere. The result is a novel that educates without ever feeling instructional and captivates without relying on spectacle.

Beautifully researched, richly atmospheric and populated by characters who feel entirely real, "Soldiers of Christ" is historical fiction at its finest. Whether you are already familiar with Richard's story or are meeting him for the first time, Jon Byrne has crafted a novel that deserves a place on every historical fiction lover's bookshelf. Highly recommended.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde
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[Tamber Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soldiers of Christ is a good book I believe because it doesn’t just recreate medieval life it pulls you straight into the moral pressure of it. The author Jon Byrne writes with a clarity that makes every choice the lead character faces feel heavy, human, and consequential. You’re not watching a knight move through a predictable plot..... you’re watching a man try to hold onto his identity, his faith, and his sense of honor in a world where loyalty is currency and betrayal is always close. It’s the kind of historical fiction that respects your intelligence and still delivers an emotional punch.

Another reason the book stands out is the way the author handles the lead character. Richard isn’t polished or idealized..... he’s layered. You see his doubts, his pride, his fear, and the quiet moments where he’s forced to choose between what’s right and what’s necessary. The relationships around him feel lived in with his alliances that shift, loyalties that get tested, and rivalries that carry real stakes. The author understands how people change under pressure, and he writes those changes with honesty.

The historical detail is another strength. The author doesn’t drown you in facts.... he immerses you. The settings feel textured and the battles feel personal. You’re not just reading about medieval conflict...... you’re inside the strategy, the fear, and the emotional cost. It’s the kind of book that reminds you history wasn’t just events, it was lived experience, full of uncertainty and conviction.

Soldiers of Christ is a good book because it blends heart, history, and humanity. It’s a story about conviction in the face of chaos, about the courage it takes to stay true to yourself, and about the cost of becoming the person the world expects you to be.

[Nicola Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank Jon Byrne, the Book Guild, and the Coffee Pot Book Club for providing me with a review copy of Soldiers of Christ. As always, this is an entirely honest assessment, regardless of the complimentary copy. This review contains no spoilers.

This is a rip roaring read following the life of Richard Fitz Simon, an exiled Norman noble who flees England to join a German brotherhood of warrior monks. It is a well researched novel and an exciting, full‑blooded story.

I loved the fight scenes, the rivalry and jealousy among the brothers, the flashes of humour, and Richard's deadly enemies. I loved to hate Bishop Albert and Richard’s master and Knight‑brother Rudolf, and don't get me started on the sneaky, treacherous Wolfgang. So much of this felt real as I read it, especially the squabbles, revenge, and corruption. It was all so human and gritty, which is what I enjoy in a novel.

The descriptions of battles and hand‑to‑hand combat made me feel the exhaustion and the pain the characters would have endured. There is plenty of tension, romance, and adventure throughout. It is well written, clearly researched, and full of energy.

I’ve given it four stars because it’s a strong, well-researched novel that's full of action and dark. Which I love. To read more about this novel, visit: https://nicolaharrisauthor.com/

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading historical fiction like this and was so pleased to receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. My review is a bit later than planned as I read the first book in the series so that I had a good background knowledge of the main protagonist beforehand. This book can work as a standalone but I think it would be best to read the series in order because of cross over characters and events. I loved the medieval history of the northern crusades that really came to life on every page. It’s fast paced and utterly realistic, and as Jon explains in his historical note at the end, a lot of the events are drawn from things that actually happened, even some of the rather graphic murder scenes! Jon Byrne has layered his narrative with such a phenomenal amount of historical research that you really need to sit and savour this book so you can absorb it all in. It’s not one to be read quickly but savoured like a fine wine. Byrne doesn’t sugar coat things for his readers - this is as real and as raw as it gets and the tension is built and sustained till the very end. I’ve gone 4 stars just because it’s not something I’d go back and re-read again but definitely worth taking time on.

[Bruce Mendelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting historical fiction novel set in the medieval period of knights and the Crusades, around 1205AD. The main character, Richard Fitz leaves England to join the Livonian order of Sword brothers. He initially made his reputation by slaying a Lithuanian champion and his character develops well. This is the second book in the series and I did not read the first one. I think it would be best to read the books in order since there are some references to the first novel. There is a lot in good historical information of the Balkan region with many battle scenes and plenty of action. However, I never felt invested in the plot or the main characters. I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader and I am grateful to have been introduced to this author. However, I will not likely read the next book in the series, nor will I go back and read the first one.

[Laura Maynard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC from NetGalley.

This book was a 4 out of 5 stars for me. I thought it was well researched and well written. There was a good amount of action and tension throughout the book that kept me interested, although it did start a bit slow. The characters were (mostly) likable and I enjoyed the character development, especially of Richard and his friends.

This is the second book in the series and I have not read the first one, so I was lost in parts of the story where references to events from the first book were made - I would definitely recommend that you read these in order.

I would recommend this book to fans of medieval historical fiction, knights, or the crusades.

[Shanda Kersten · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not having read the first book, I thought I'd be lost, but I caught up fairly quickly. As a captured prisoner of war, Richard recounts his younger years to a scribe. In itself, this is highly entertaining. The early years of his service as a warrior monk are so widely ranged in experience and exciting that I kept forgetting he was telling his story to someone. The first time the scribe broke in with a question, I wondered where this guy came from. It took me a minute to remember. The battles, cold, struggles, and warring from within had me hooked. I'll be going back and reading the first one for sure.

I did receive this book free via The Niche Reader which is finding all kinds of new authors for me to read.

[Siobhain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say I love a good historical fiction and for me what makes a good historical fiction is a nice mix of historical accuracy with gripping storytelling. Byrne does just this in Soldiers of Christ. Mixing well researched history with a gripping narrative and switching between time this book will keep you hooked from the first page til the last. The writing is fantastic and makes you feel like you are right in the narrative with the characters. The characters are believable, well conceived and realistic which only aids to the enjoyment. This is a definite must read for fans of the medieval time period who love a good action narrative.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Richard's journey into manhood continues and it's… complicated. Often gritty, at times tender, the reader must marvel at how one so young could survive and thrive in such conditions. In this second installment, Richard's enemies seem to multiply but supporters stay loyal and new players arrive while others meet their end. I liked the pacing of the narrative and the insights into Richard's character. This is a continuing story, but if you appreciate historical fiction that has a foundation in reality, read Richard's story. It's an adventure and an education! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Samantha Turley · Rating 4.75 out of 5]

Set in 1205, the story follows Richard Fitz Simon as he attempts to establish himself within the Livonian Order while navigating rivalries and political tensions that threaten his hard-won place.

Richard's struggle is about far more than survival. His past follows him, while his present demands obedience to men whose motivations and loyalties aren't always clear.

The wilderness expedition to build a castle provides an especially effective backdrop for the growing conflict.

With its gritty realism and morally complicated characters, this is an absorbing choice for readers who prefer their historical fiction grounded in the difficult realities of the past.

[C. Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soldiers of Christ delivers a compelling look at a period of medieval history through the eyes of a man struggling to find his place in a world governed by warfare and power.

One of the book's strengths is the sense of realism surrounding its setting. Richard is never allowed an easy path, and each decision seems capable of carrying consequences far beyond what he expects.

The novel expands a larger story while remaining focused on Richard's personal struggle with identity and belonging. Soldiers of Christ should appeal to readers looking for historical fiction that explores the complicated human realities behind medieval warfare.

[Fatguyreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of historical fiction, one of my absolute favourite genres, and I have a particular interest in the medieval period, so I jumped at the chance to read this, and it really did live up to my high expectations.

Packed with lots of brilliant historical accuracy and a storyline that's fast paced and utterly believable, it's s tale of the brutalities of the age.

The obvious through research the author has put into this is clear to see, there's so much great detail to absorb and I really did fly through this in two sittings.

4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.

[Carol Stefanik · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I said in my review of the first book in this series, historical fiction with some research to back up the history and fiction to keep it interesting with plenty of tension and action. The flips back and forth through time are well delineated. This one got a little long in the tooth but was just as readable.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa reads alot Hamer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical fiction at its finest, I was gripped from start to finished.
Transported back to the 1200s the hardships, brutal battles and bloodshed were brought to life on the pages of this book.
This is book 2 and I did read the first before starting this one but I think you could read this as a standalone but you learn more of Richard’s journey by reading both.
An excellent read for anyone who enjoys a medieval historical read.

[Gina Stamper · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

A gripping historical fiction novel that plunges readers into the dangerous world of the medieval Livonian frontier.

What makes the story especially engaging is its moral complexity. Richard isn't simply fighting enemies on a battlefield; he is constantly wrestling with questions of loyalty, faith, honor, identity, and obedience.

The historical setting feels harsh and unforgiving, and Byrne does an excellent job portraying medieval warfare and crusading without romanticizing the period.

[Anja Stiehle · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Soldiers of Christ' by Jon Byrne is a immersive novel that really brings the world of the Northern Crusades to life. I‘m very curious how the story develops further and cannot wait till the next book gets published.