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The Bernicia Chronicles #7
Fortress of Fury
AD 647. Anglo-Saxon Britain. A gripping, action-packed historical thriller and the seventh instalment in the Bernicia Chronicles.
War hangs heavy in the hot summer air as Penda of Mercia and his allies march into the north. Caught unawares, the Bernician forces are besieged within the great fortress of Bebbanburg.
It falls to Beobrand to mount the defence of the stronghold, but even while the battle rages, old and powerful enemies have mobilised against him, seeking vengeance for past events.
As the Mercian forces tighten their grip and unknown killers close in, Beobrand finds himself in a struggle with conflicting oaths and the dreadful pull of a forbidden love that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.
With the future of Northumbria in jeopardy, will Beobrand be able to withstand the powers that beset him and find a path to victory against all the odds?
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2020
301 people are currently reading
396 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Harffy
35 books741 followersMatthew Harffy is the author of the action-packed series of historical novels, the Bernicia Chronicles.
Matthew’s 2020 novel, Wolf of Wessex, was his first departure from the seventh century. Taking place a couple of centuries later in the early years of the Viking Age, it tells the tale of ageing warrior, Dunston, as he tries to find a man’s vicious murderers, keep the victim’s orphaned daughter alive and uncover the dark secret that threatens to plunge the kingdom into war. The book was very well received, with The Times calling it “a treat of a book”.
His A Time for Swords series is set at the dawn of the Viking Age. It follows the adventures of monk-turned-warrior, Hunlaf, who witnesses the first attack on the monastery of Lindisfarne and feels compelled to pick up a blade and organise the defence against the Norse raiders.
Before becoming a full-time author, Matthew worked in the IT industry, where he spent most of his days writing and editing, just not the words that most interested him! Prior to that, he worked in Spain as an English teacher and translator.
Matthew lives in Wiltshire, England, with his wife and their two daughters.
Matthew’s 2020 novel, Wolf of Wessex, was his first departure from the seventh century. Taking place a couple of centuries later in the early years of the Viking Age, it tells the tale of ageing warrior, Dunston, as he tries to find a man’s vicious murderers, keep the victim’s orphaned daughter alive and uncover the dark secret that threatens to plunge the kingdom into war. The book was very well received, with The Times calling it “a treat of a book”.
His A Time for Swords series is set at the dawn of the Viking Age. It follows the adventures of monk-turned-warrior, Hunlaf, who witnesses the first attack on the monastery of Lindisfarne and feels compelled to pick up a blade and organise the defence against the Norse raiders.
Before becoming a full-time author, Matthew worked in the IT industry, where he spent most of his days writing and editing, just not the words that most interested him! Prior to that, he worked in Spain as an English teacher and translator.
Matthew lives in Wiltshire, England, with his wife and their two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
October 11, 2020
Fortress of Fury is a well-researched, enjoyable historical fiction set in the familiar world of dark ages Britain. There are bloody battles, intriguing characters and plenty of oaths that need fulfilling.
“To lead men is not easy. Think carefully before you accept their oaths. For a man’s promise to his lord is both a treasure and a burden.”
This is Matthew Harffy’s 7th entry into his dark-ages series the Bernicia Chronicles. Set in 647 AD, you may not know much about this particular time period as it is rarely covered in historical fiction. We are more used to the age of the norse-raiders from the turn of the 8th century to the battle of Hastings. If you are a reader of Bernard Cornwell’s Saxon Chronicles this series will not feel much different. The land and politics are similar, the gritty characters and shield walls are ever present and the names are suitably Anglo-Saxon.
“You know me,” Beobrand said, a half-smile playing on his lips. “I am always careful.”
I have not read the previous entries into the Bernicia Chronicles, nor have I met Beobrand our protagonist before. I can say that you can definitely follow along and not feel lost if you jump into this series here, as this book indeed felt like a standalone. I did always feel like I was missing something, a connection with a certain character, a reference here and there, and this ultimately influenced my rating more than another book would.
“Towards lies and towards broken oaths. And towards death.”
The writing is solid, prose clear and direct and engaging. Beobrand is a likeable character and has some awesome moments that make him stand above the rest. There are similarities between him and other main characters of dark ages series, a strong and talented warrior with charisma for days, but that is no bad thing - if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! The secondary cast are also fun and provide lots of interest, whether in the form of friends, love interests and rivals. The pacing was great and each character had their moment to come through and shine to the reader.
“The men did not speak, but it was clear they came with only one purpose: death in the darkness.”
4/5 - All in all I enjoyed my foray into the Bernicia Chronicles. It is a solid and fun read that allows you to glimpse into the dark world of 7th century Britain. The fights are intense and engaging and the characters intriguing. I will go back and start from book 1 as I enjoyed this, but feel I could have loved it if I had joined the characters from book 1.
“To lead men is not easy. Think carefully before you accept their oaths. For a man’s promise to his lord is both a treasure and a burden.”
This is Matthew Harffy’s 7th entry into his dark-ages series the Bernicia Chronicles. Set in 647 AD, you may not know much about this particular time period as it is rarely covered in historical fiction. We are more used to the age of the norse-raiders from the turn of the 8th century to the battle of Hastings. If you are a reader of Bernard Cornwell’s Saxon Chronicles this series will not feel much different. The land and politics are similar, the gritty characters and shield walls are ever present and the names are suitably Anglo-Saxon.
“You know me,” Beobrand said, a half-smile playing on his lips. “I am always careful.”
I have not read the previous entries into the Bernicia Chronicles, nor have I met Beobrand our protagonist before. I can say that you can definitely follow along and not feel lost if you jump into this series here, as this book indeed felt like a standalone. I did always feel like I was missing something, a connection with a certain character, a reference here and there, and this ultimately influenced my rating more than another book would.
“Towards lies and towards broken oaths. And towards death.”
The writing is solid, prose clear and direct and engaging. Beobrand is a likeable character and has some awesome moments that make him stand above the rest. There are similarities between him and other main characters of dark ages series, a strong and talented warrior with charisma for days, but that is no bad thing - if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! The secondary cast are also fun and provide lots of interest, whether in the form of friends, love interests and rivals. The pacing was great and each character had their moment to come through and shine to the reader.
“The men did not speak, but it was clear they came with only one purpose: death in the darkness.”
4/5 - All in all I enjoyed my foray into the Bernicia Chronicles. It is a solid and fun read that allows you to glimpse into the dark world of 7th century Britain. The fights are intense and engaging and the characters intriguing. I will go back and start from book 1 as I enjoyed this, but feel I could have loved it if I had joined the characters from book 1.
August 27, 2021
This astounding book is the 7th volume of the "Bernicia Chronicles", from the author, Matthew Harffy.
Storytelling is of a superb quality, the dark atmosphere of 7th Century Albion comes wonderfully off the pages, and all characters, whether great historical or fantastic fictional, come vividly to life within this amazing story of honour, war, bloodshed and death.
Right on the inside of the book you'll notice a well-drawn map of the North of Albion in AD 647.
At the beginning of the book you'll see a list of Place Names, with many of them featuring in this great story that is set in the Dark Ages of Albion.
At the end of the book you'll notice a superbly documented Historical Note, where the historical details are explained in a most understanding fashion.
The book is set as from AD 646, with a prologue that will set the tone for the rest of the book, right until into the year AD 647, and we find our main protagonist, Beobrand of Ubbanford, and his gesithas, in and around the Fortress of Bebbanburg, defending this famous Fortress from the hordes of King Penda of Mercia, with King Oswiu of Bernicia not present at Bebbanburg, but instead keeping busy in Caer Luel.
What is to follow is an action-packed and tremendous tale about honour, cowardice, loyalty, betrayal, war swordplay and ultimate death, and its a story in which Beobrand and his gesithas will do anything to save Queen Eanflaed and the people gathered within the Fortress of Bebbanburg from the clutches of the pagan King Penda of Mercia and his wolves, and after ultimately fending off King Penda and his wolves, what will happen later on is due to a deliberate misunderstanding there will be a everlasting enmity between King Oswiu of Bernicia and his neighbour, King Oswine of Deira, and that enmity will turn out into a deadly game of conspiracy and intrigue.
Highly recommended, for this is another superb addition to this fantastic series, in my opinion at least equally as good as the Last Kingdom series by Bernard Cornwell, and that's why I want to call this amazing episode: "A Tremendous Tale Featuring Mighty Bebbanburg"!
Storytelling is of a superb quality, the dark atmosphere of 7th Century Albion comes wonderfully off the pages, and all characters, whether great historical or fantastic fictional, come vividly to life within this amazing story of honour, war, bloodshed and death.
Right on the inside of the book you'll notice a well-drawn map of the North of Albion in AD 647.
At the beginning of the book you'll see a list of Place Names, with many of them featuring in this great story that is set in the Dark Ages of Albion.
At the end of the book you'll notice a superbly documented Historical Note, where the historical details are explained in a most understanding fashion.
The book is set as from AD 646, with a prologue that will set the tone for the rest of the book, right until into the year AD 647, and we find our main protagonist, Beobrand of Ubbanford, and his gesithas, in and around the Fortress of Bebbanburg, defending this famous Fortress from the hordes of King Penda of Mercia, with King Oswiu of Bernicia not present at Bebbanburg, but instead keeping busy in Caer Luel.
What is to follow is an action-packed and tremendous tale about honour, cowardice, loyalty, betrayal, war swordplay and ultimate death, and its a story in which Beobrand and his gesithas will do anything to save Queen Eanflaed and the people gathered within the Fortress of Bebbanburg from the clutches of the pagan King Penda of Mercia and his wolves, and after ultimately fending off King Penda and his wolves, what will happen later on is due to a deliberate misunderstanding there will be a everlasting enmity between King Oswiu of Bernicia and his neighbour, King Oswine of Deira, and that enmity will turn out into a deadly game of conspiracy and intrigue.
Highly recommended, for this is another superb addition to this fantastic series, in my opinion at least equally as good as the Last Kingdom series by Bernard Cornwell, and that's why I want to call this amazing episode: "A Tremendous Tale Featuring Mighty Bebbanburg"!
August 11, 2020
Although Fortress of Fury is the seventh book in the series it can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone. The book has brief references to events and characters in previous books but this is done in a such a way that it certainly won’t stop me going back and reading earlier books.
As fans of the series have come to expect, there are thrilling battle scenes with vivid descriptions of blood-splattered, bone-crunching encounters between Beobrand’s loyal Black Shields and their enemies, in this case the marauding Mercians. Beobrand himself is a fearsome warrior. “He was born to this… Now there was nothing but the night, cold steel and the hot blood of his enemies. This was the dance of death, and Beobrand knew every step.” For Beobrand though, each victory comes at a price, as the faces of the men he has killed often haunt his nightmares.
Without in any way intruding on the story or the pace of events, the book has a mass of fascinating detail about domestic life in a noble house of the period, weaponry and the political landscape of 7th century Anglo-Saxon Britain, with its different tribes and factions. I loved the scenes set within the beseiged fortress of Bebbanburg as its inhabitants and those who have sought refuge behind its supposedly impregnable walls prepare to withstand the enemy onslaught. I really felt I was there manning the barricades alongside them.
As well as his prowess with a sword and seax, Beobrand possesses numerous other qualities. I confess the references to the broadness of his chest, his powerful arms and the shape of his muscled legs made me think it might not be such a burden to be stuck in a besieged castle alongside him. However, since I’d have a much more well-connected and alluring rival it would definitely make it a fortress of fury!
I liked how the author explored the responsibilities that come with leadership. As Beobrand confides, “a man’s promise to his lord is both a treasure and a burden“. His gesithas are not just men sworn to serve him, they are his ‘shield-brothers’ whom he has a duty to protect. “He was their leader and must be stronger than any of them. That was his wyrd, the destiny of a lord.”
From time to time, the reader gets to see events from the point of view of Cynan, one of Beobrand’s loyal gesithas. Despite proving himself on an important mission and earning the trust of a group of men, Cynan underestimates his own leadership ability. “He knew they were not truly his men, they were but ceorls who had turned to a warrior with a horse, helm and sword in a moment of need.” The inclusion of this different point of view also provides another perspective on Beobrand’s character and the way his brooding silences and sudden changes of mood affect his men.
In the tense final chapters, Beobrand finds himself “trapped between two oaths“. He is faced with a terrible choice: to carry out the command of the king he has sworn to obey which will involve betraying his own code of honour; or to break his oath of allegiance with all the consequences that will follow both for him and those who stand with him. Which course will he choose? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
As the prospect of war looms, Beobrand and the people of Bernicia are entitled to wonder how events will play out “on the great tafl board of kings“. Beobrand has a reputation for being lucky but, as the author confides in his historical note, “The future looks uncertain, with intrigues and danger lurking over every hill and in every shadow”. That seems a pretty enticing prospect to me.
As fans of the series have come to expect, there are thrilling battle scenes with vivid descriptions of blood-splattered, bone-crunching encounters between Beobrand’s loyal Black Shields and their enemies, in this case the marauding Mercians. Beobrand himself is a fearsome warrior. “He was born to this… Now there was nothing but the night, cold steel and the hot blood of his enemies. This was the dance of death, and Beobrand knew every step.” For Beobrand though, each victory comes at a price, as the faces of the men he has killed often haunt his nightmares.
Without in any way intruding on the story or the pace of events, the book has a mass of fascinating detail about domestic life in a noble house of the period, weaponry and the political landscape of 7th century Anglo-Saxon Britain, with its different tribes and factions. I loved the scenes set within the beseiged fortress of Bebbanburg as its inhabitants and those who have sought refuge behind its supposedly impregnable walls prepare to withstand the enemy onslaught. I really felt I was there manning the barricades alongside them.
As well as his prowess with a sword and seax, Beobrand possesses numerous other qualities. I confess the references to the broadness of his chest, his powerful arms and the shape of his muscled legs made me think it might not be such a burden to be stuck in a besieged castle alongside him. However, since I’d have a much more well-connected and alluring rival it would definitely make it a fortress of fury!
I liked how the author explored the responsibilities that come with leadership. As Beobrand confides, “a man’s promise to his lord is both a treasure and a burden“. His gesithas are not just men sworn to serve him, they are his ‘shield-brothers’ whom he has a duty to protect. “He was their leader and must be stronger than any of them. That was his wyrd, the destiny of a lord.”
From time to time, the reader gets to see events from the point of view of Cynan, one of Beobrand’s loyal gesithas. Despite proving himself on an important mission and earning the trust of a group of men, Cynan underestimates his own leadership ability. “He knew they were not truly his men, they were but ceorls who had turned to a warrior with a horse, helm and sword in a moment of need.” The inclusion of this different point of view also provides another perspective on Beobrand’s character and the way his brooding silences and sudden changes of mood affect his men.
In the tense final chapters, Beobrand finds himself “trapped between two oaths“. He is faced with a terrible choice: to carry out the command of the king he has sworn to obey which will involve betraying his own code of honour; or to break his oath of allegiance with all the consequences that will follow both for him and those who stand with him. Which course will he choose? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
As the prospect of war looms, Beobrand and the people of Bernicia are entitled to wonder how events will play out “on the great tafl board of kings“. Beobrand has a reputation for being lucky but, as the author confides in his historical note, “The future looks uncertain, with intrigues and danger lurking over every hill and in every shadow”. That seems a pretty enticing prospect to me.
February 14, 2021
I have now read all seven of the books of the Bernicia Chronicles and have enjoyed them all. The 7th Century is brought to life in the oath sworn lifestyles of men with swords as they must conform to the wishes of others. Harsh living and dying; wars between factions that make the swordsmen a necessity; dreams of eventual independence with the possibility of owning land and other promises motivate the men as do oaths of retribution for loathsome acts. Beobrand maintains loyalty amongst his men, but there could be some serious trouble after the events of this book.
Wars, rumors of wars, burning of the gate...plenty of swordplay.
Kindle Unlimited
Wars, rumors of wars, burning of the gate...plenty of swordplay.
Kindle Unlimited
August 6, 2023
4.5 stars
September 29, 2020
This is why I read. I love this series. Fortress Of Fury has our hero Beobrand back in his own neighborhood and facing some of the old villains, who are still villains. Historical blended with the fictional. In reminiscing, he reminds us of some of the old characters and friends that have impacted this hero's story and made him who he is.
September 16, 2020
“To lead men is not easy. Think carefully before you accept their oaths. For a man’s promise to his lord is both a treasure and a burden.” - Beobrand
“Had Beobrand brought this horror upon them? Or, worse than that, had it been her own sins that had brought the Devil to the gates of Bebbanburg?” -Enflaed
The book, 7th in the Bernicia Chronicles series is set in Anglo-Saxon Britain. In 647 AD when King Penda of Mercia and his allies march north in the kingdom of Bernicia, the Bernician forces caught unawares found themselves besieged within the great fortress of Bebbanburg. In the absence of their King Oswiu, the mantle of defending the stronghold falls on the shoulder of our hero, Beobrand, and his gesithia, the deadly Black Shield. As the Mercian forces tighten their grip and old and powerful enemies mobilized against Beobrand seeking vengeance for past events, only the Fyrd of Bernicia or a sudden help from the neighboring kingdom of Deira could save Bebbanburg. But when Penda set fire to the fortress gates and no help arrive on time will Beobrand be able to withstand the might of Penda and find a path to victory against all the odds?
🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:
🔥The cover with the burning fortress of Bebbanburg is totally fascinating ( My favorite cover in the series) and the title apt to the story
🔥Matthew had thoroughly researched this era and build the plot of the book around the historical events and characters of the Mercian invasion of Bernicia which lead to the burning of the Bebbanburg fortress and sets the events of the upcoming war between the kingdoms of Bernicia and Deira. He also provided a map of Albino, name of the places, and historical note in the book for better understanding.
🔥Matthew's writing grows solidly with each book. Narrated from multiple character's POVs, the story moves at breakneck speed with a cliffhanger at the end of each chapter. The descriptions of the life, culture, religion, political landscape of 7th century Anglo-Saxon Britain is so vivid you feel yourself there back in time. The blood-splattered and bone-crunching battle scenes are well described. I like how superstition is used in turning the events of the war.
🔥All the characters are immaculately crafted and the camaraderie which Beo and his gesithas shared is represented excellently. Beo's forbidden love for the queen and his inner turmoil, Enflaed's quick wit and steadfastness during the siege, Cynan's feeling of an outsider and his hesitation to lead, and Coenred's unshakable believe in god makes the reader invest on them.
🔥There is a nerve-wracking twist at the end. Just when Beo seems to have successfully resisted his unrequited smoldering love of the queen and his strained relationship with the king gets better, he finds himself trapped between two conflicting oaths, which will change him irrevocably from inside. To know what are they and which oath he chose for that you have to read the book.
Overall, Fortress of Fury was an absolutely fantastic read for me. I love this series and cannot wait for the next book. I highly recommend the series to all the historical fiction lovers. You can also read the books as standalone as the reference of past books didn't hinder the reading enjoyment.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Had Beobrand brought this horror upon them? Or, worse than that, had it been her own sins that had brought the Devil to the gates of Bebbanburg?” -Enflaed
The book, 7th in the Bernicia Chronicles series is set in Anglo-Saxon Britain. In 647 AD when King Penda of Mercia and his allies march north in the kingdom of Bernicia, the Bernician forces caught unawares found themselves besieged within the great fortress of Bebbanburg. In the absence of their King Oswiu, the mantle of defending the stronghold falls on the shoulder of our hero, Beobrand, and his gesithia, the deadly Black Shield. As the Mercian forces tighten their grip and old and powerful enemies mobilized against Beobrand seeking vengeance for past events, only the Fyrd of Bernicia or a sudden help from the neighboring kingdom of Deira could save Bebbanburg. But when Penda set fire to the fortress gates and no help arrive on time will Beobrand be able to withstand the might of Penda and find a path to victory against all the odds?
🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:
🔥The cover with the burning fortress of Bebbanburg is totally fascinating ( My favorite cover in the series) and the title apt to the story
🔥Matthew had thoroughly researched this era and build the plot of the book around the historical events and characters of the Mercian invasion of Bernicia which lead to the burning of the Bebbanburg fortress and sets the events of the upcoming war between the kingdoms of Bernicia and Deira. He also provided a map of Albino, name of the places, and historical note in the book for better understanding.
🔥Matthew's writing grows solidly with each book. Narrated from multiple character's POVs, the story moves at breakneck speed with a cliffhanger at the end of each chapter. The descriptions of the life, culture, religion, political landscape of 7th century Anglo-Saxon Britain is so vivid you feel yourself there back in time. The blood-splattered and bone-crunching battle scenes are well described. I like how superstition is used in turning the events of the war.
🔥All the characters are immaculately crafted and the camaraderie which Beo and his gesithas shared is represented excellently. Beo's forbidden love for the queen and his inner turmoil, Enflaed's quick wit and steadfastness during the siege, Cynan's feeling of an outsider and his hesitation to lead, and Coenred's unshakable believe in god makes the reader invest on them.
🔥There is a nerve-wracking twist at the end. Just when Beo seems to have successfully resisted his unrequited smoldering love of the queen and his strained relationship with the king gets better, he finds himself trapped between two conflicting oaths, which will change him irrevocably from inside. To know what are they and which oath he chose for that you have to read the book.
Overall, Fortress of Fury was an absolutely fantastic read for me. I love this series and cannot wait for the next book. I highly recommend the series to all the historical fiction lovers. You can also read the books as standalone as the reference of past books didn't hinder the reading enjoyment.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 31, 2023
7 books into the series and its never dull or following the same pattern over and over. there are always emotional moments, gripping battles and gut-wrenching decisions to make. i love what Matthew is doing with Beo and his men. They have such a strong bond and Beobrand is an amazing man to follow.
Thank you Matthew for writing such a wonderful series.
Thank you Matthew for writing such a wonderful series.
January 11, 2021
Amazing! I’ve flew through these books over the last 2 months and now finally caught up! This series is incredible, and it keeps getting better!
July 31, 2022
I really enjoy the Bernicia Chronicles. The two books on the series that I have rated less than a 4 are because the author spends too much time describing the angst in the heads of wannabe lovers. I don’t read these books for that young adult nonsense , I want action , trash talking and blood! 😈
September 18, 2021
I have to admit that this was my first book by Matthew Harffy, I enjoyed my first visit into Harffey’s Anglo-Saxon world so much I went on to read the next in the series too (review of that one to come).
Fortress of Fury is the seventh book in the Bernicia Chronicles, I did get the feeling I had missed out on something whilst reading so I do believe that the series needs to be read in order instead of doing what I do and jump in halfway through (no change there) but despite my initial misgivings that I wouldn’t be able to follow the story as I had missed the first six adventures, I did enjoy it immensely and soon fell into the Beobrands life and journey – but I will be reading the previous books as soon as I can and this time I will be starting from book one.
Beobrand is a complex character – or maybe he isn’t, as I have missed so much of his previous journey, maybe I just think he’s complicated, I may have missed out on something with starting a series so far in – anyway he is an interesting character, one who I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know and following as he sets out on his journey. He is a brilliant leader and I thought a decent man, the way he loves his horse, in particular, made me like him all the more. I have always said you can judge a man by how he treats animals and his fondness for his aged horse set in stone that this man is a great hero to follow.
Fortress of Fury is a great historical novel it’s daring, thrilling, exciting and addictive. It’s one of those books where you start and become so immersed into the story you refuse to put it down for a moment with a fear that you are going to miss out on something. I loved the pacing and how easily it flowed, I have always like faster-paced books and this one has it perfectly, it kidnaps you, takes you hostage until the very last word.
Matthew Harffey is an incredibly talented writer, he transports you from your comfy chair and plonks you right down in the middle of Northumberland (or Bernicia), the settings and each scene are stunning, the descriptions of the area and the time are breath-taking I felt as though I was standing right beside Beobrand.
Overall, Fortress of Fury is a dramatic, thrilling, intense, gloriously vivid and meticulously researched novel that engages the reader from page one and compels them to keep reading right to the very end. If you love edgier, historical adventures with heroes you can’t help but back all the way and then keep thinking about well after closing the last page then Fortress of Fury is the book you need to read.
Fortress of Fury is the seventh book in the Bernicia Chronicles, I did get the feeling I had missed out on something whilst reading so I do believe that the series needs to be read in order instead of doing what I do and jump in halfway through (no change there) but despite my initial misgivings that I wouldn’t be able to follow the story as I had missed the first six adventures, I did enjoy it immensely and soon fell into the Beobrands life and journey – but I will be reading the previous books as soon as I can and this time I will be starting from book one.
Beobrand is a complex character – or maybe he isn’t, as I have missed so much of his previous journey, maybe I just think he’s complicated, I may have missed out on something with starting a series so far in – anyway he is an interesting character, one who I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know and following as he sets out on his journey. He is a brilliant leader and I thought a decent man, the way he loves his horse, in particular, made me like him all the more. I have always said you can judge a man by how he treats animals and his fondness for his aged horse set in stone that this man is a great hero to follow.
Fortress of Fury is a great historical novel it’s daring, thrilling, exciting and addictive. It’s one of those books where you start and become so immersed into the story you refuse to put it down for a moment with a fear that you are going to miss out on something. I loved the pacing and how easily it flowed, I have always like faster-paced books and this one has it perfectly, it kidnaps you, takes you hostage until the very last word.
Matthew Harffey is an incredibly talented writer, he transports you from your comfy chair and plonks you right down in the middle of Northumberland (or Bernicia), the settings and each scene are stunning, the descriptions of the area and the time are breath-taking I felt as though I was standing right beside Beobrand.
Overall, Fortress of Fury is a dramatic, thrilling, intense, gloriously vivid and meticulously researched novel that engages the reader from page one and compels them to keep reading right to the very end. If you love edgier, historical adventures with heroes you can’t help but back all the way and then keep thinking about well after closing the last page then Fortress of Fury is the book you need to read.
October 27, 2020
BLURB
AD 647. Anglo-Saxon Britain. A gripping, action-packed historical thriller and the seventh instalment in the Bernicia Chronicles.
War hangs heavy in the hot summer air as Penda of Mercia and his allies march into the north. Caught unawares, the Bernician forces are besieged within the great fortress of Bebbanburg.
It falls to Beobrand to mount the defence of the stronghold, but even while the battle rages, old and powerful enemies have mobilised against him, seeking vengeance for past events.
As the Mercian forces tighten their grip and unknown killers close in, Beobrand finds himself in a struggle with conflicting oaths and the dreadful pull of a forbidden love that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.
With the future of Northumbria in jeopardy, will Beobrand be able to withstand the powers that beset him and find a path to victory against all the odds?
REVIEW
When a series reaches this many volumes, and the main character is pretty well known to those who have read the whole series, the need to keep the tale fresh and vibrant is a daunting task. Fortunately for us, my fellow followers of Beobrand, the author has met that challenge. Layers of depth have been added to not only our hero, but also the supporting cast. This episode thrusts Beobrand into situations that are complicated, seemingly unsolvable, and numerous. It is a twisting path with the obstacles of love, loyalty, honor, and oaths given, that the Lord of Ubbanford must follow, and somehow survive. Page turner? Ahh, that would be a yes. Best part? Beobrand will be back. 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 17, 2023
4.5
This story surprised me that there was so much romance in it. It should be listed under historical romance. There was a lot of time given to a few forbidden romance liaisons. Well, the possibility of a liaison. Will they or won’t they? I was biting my nails wondering which way it would go. So I was frustrated at some decisions but I was glad that there were level headed characters to speak sense like Coenred.
As expected the battle scenes were awesome. You think you are a spectator watching the fight right there. And there aren’t any characters I like that are lost in this book anyway. I also wondered what would happen to certain nasty characters like Heremod and Fordraed. In addition I thought Oswiu was getting a bit softer and more likable for a certain time but then that changed quickly. And he becomes the egomaniacal king again.
Now that things have not ended great, I can’t imagine how Beobrand will move forward and what will happen to him and his gesitha.
This story surprised me that there was so much romance in it. It should be listed under historical romance. There was a lot of time given to a few forbidden romance liaisons. Well, the possibility of a liaison. Will they or won’t they? I was biting my nails wondering which way it would go. So I was frustrated at some decisions but I was glad that there were level headed characters to speak sense like Coenred.
As expected the battle scenes were awesome. You think you are a spectator watching the fight right there. And there aren’t any characters I like that are lost in this book anyway. I also wondered what would happen to certain nasty characters like Heremod and Fordraed. In addition I thought Oswiu was getting a bit softer and more likable for a certain time but then that changed quickly. And he becomes the egomaniacal king again.
Now that things have not ended great, I can’t imagine how Beobrand will move forward and what will happen to him and his gesitha.
September 14, 2020
Just when I thought this series couldn't get much better, along comes Fortress of Fury and proves me wrong. This one has it all - gruesome battle scenes, betrayal, bravery (and cowardice) and enough realism to make me believe I was actually living in the Dark Ages. Beobrand is still the greatest warrior in Albion (Britain) and is forced to prove it many times in this book. His skills are never more tested than when Mercian forces under Penda invade Bernicia and set siege at Bebbanberg. Faced with certain death, Beobrand and his gesithas turn to cunning, and luck, to turn the tide.
The battle scenes in this series are particularly graphic. I cannot imagine what it must have been like to have been involved in a war during this period. Facing down a shield wall or awaiting the thundering charge of mounted warriors must have been terrifying.
While this is a work of fiction, it is based on historical events and locations. This makes reading this series that much more interesting. The author ended this book with enough loose ends to guarantee at least one more book. I, for one, cannot wait.
The battle scenes in this series are particularly graphic. I cannot imagine what it must have been like to have been involved in a war during this period. Facing down a shield wall or awaiting the thundering charge of mounted warriors must have been terrifying.
While this is a work of fiction, it is based on historical events and locations. This makes reading this series that much more interesting. The author ended this book with enough loose ends to guarantee at least one more book. I, for one, cannot wait.
December 10, 2020
Fortress of Fury is book 7 In The Bernicia Chronicles series. I’m always excited for the next instalment but also worried.. Will it live up to it’s predecessors, will it start to get repetitive or even will this be the last we see of Beobrand….
I need not have worried!
Wow!
A Mercian warhost has been spotted and as Beorand races to Bebbanburg he knows war is not far off, but will the King be there? How will they defend themselves and push Mercian forces back?
This is a gruelling action packed tale that leaves you on edge, woven beautifully with detailed depictions. I can’t really give away too much but in one scene I felt my own heart racing along with Beo and his revered Black Shields as they charge head on into the enemy.
Cynan, one of Beobrand’s most loyal is sent to spur on the fighting forces they need. Along the way his character grows significantly. I really enjoyed seeing his development, it was probably one of the best things about the book. I’d love to see Cynan get his own series one day.. that’s if he can make it out of this alive!
King Oswiu and Beobrand share no love for each other but Beo is his sworn man… his word is iron.. but even Beobrand has his limits and in this tale he’s pushed over the edge… will he defy the King?
Oswiu seems to like to play games and wants to assert his authority but this leads him to disagreements with those he should call allies. It’s a dangerous game to play.
There’s a lot going on in this tale such as war, love and treachery. With so much plot you’d think you might struggle to take it all in but the pace of the tale and it’s flow is spot on, it was almost effortless to digest.
What Harffy does perfectly is balance the focus of war against Penda with Beobrand’s own tale, his development.. and the trouble he’s about it get himself into! He never has luck with the ladies but he’s definitely picked the wrong woman this time!
Beobrand is a delight, his character has grown over the years with experience. He’s got a short fuse but at times can see the benefit in holding his tongue. God help if you get on the wrong side of him though!
One trait of Beobrands I very much enjoy is that he reflects a lot on past events. Even after so many years he still yearns for his lost friend Acennan.. he keeps the memory of those lost along his journey with him at all times and as a reader this had my mind wandering back..vividly remembering scenes when we first meet Coenred the monk for example. I feel this chance to reflect adds something extra to the tale and proves how good of a storyteller Harffy is that his work stays with you.
The final couple of chapters are pure brilliance as Beobrand makes a drastic decision..the consequences to be felt in book 8!
One hell of an instalment, One hell of an epic series!
I need not have worried!
Wow!
A Mercian warhost has been spotted and as Beorand races to Bebbanburg he knows war is not far off, but will the King be there? How will they defend themselves and push Mercian forces back?
This is a gruelling action packed tale that leaves you on edge, woven beautifully with detailed depictions. I can’t really give away too much but in one scene I felt my own heart racing along with Beo and his revered Black Shields as they charge head on into the enemy.
Cynan, one of Beobrand’s most loyal is sent to spur on the fighting forces they need. Along the way his character grows significantly. I really enjoyed seeing his development, it was probably one of the best things about the book. I’d love to see Cynan get his own series one day.. that’s if he can make it out of this alive!
King Oswiu and Beobrand share no love for each other but Beo is his sworn man… his word is iron.. but even Beobrand has his limits and in this tale he’s pushed over the edge… will he defy the King?
Oswiu seems to like to play games and wants to assert his authority but this leads him to disagreements with those he should call allies. It’s a dangerous game to play.
There’s a lot going on in this tale such as war, love and treachery. With so much plot you’d think you might struggle to take it all in but the pace of the tale and it’s flow is spot on, it was almost effortless to digest.
What Harffy does perfectly is balance the focus of war against Penda with Beobrand’s own tale, his development.. and the trouble he’s about it get himself into! He never has luck with the ladies but he’s definitely picked the wrong woman this time!
Beobrand is a delight, his character has grown over the years with experience. He’s got a short fuse but at times can see the benefit in holding his tongue. God help if you get on the wrong side of him though!
One trait of Beobrands I very much enjoy is that he reflects a lot on past events. Even after so many years he still yearns for his lost friend Acennan.. he keeps the memory of those lost along his journey with him at all times and as a reader this had my mind wandering back..vividly remembering scenes when we first meet Coenred the monk for example. I feel this chance to reflect adds something extra to the tale and proves how good of a storyteller Harffy is that his work stays with you.
The final couple of chapters are pure brilliance as Beobrand makes a drastic decision..the consequences to be felt in book 8!
One hell of an instalment, One hell of an epic series!
January 17, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed this epic book, part of a series but can be read as a standalone. One of the best historical fiction I have ever read, eagerly waiting for the next installation of this.
I loved the fight scenes and the detailed writing of the battle strategies, it has been so beautifully crafted along with the story timeline that you'd have no doubt that this is how it had all happened ages ago. Hats off to the author.
I loved the fight scenes and the detailed writing of the battle strategies, it has been so beautifully crafted along with the story timeline that you'd have no doubt that this is how it had all happened ages ago. Hats off to the author.
June 30, 2021
This is the only volume in the lengthy series that I was not overly fond of. It felt heavy-handed when concerning romance and religion. Still a decent read but not his best.
August 9, 2020
Absolutely fantastic read! Couldn’t put it down. bloody battles , forbidden love, Oaths to be broken. Beobrand is the warrior to follow . Historical fiction at its best.
October 25, 2020
Thoroughly recommend
Throughly enjoyed the whole series. Well written, great characters. Good grasp of history. Sad that I have finished the series.
Throughly enjoyed the whole series. Well written, great characters. Good grasp of history. Sad that I have finished the series.
December 20, 2020
The many readers who have accompanied Matthew Harffy’s seventh-century warrior hero, Beobrand, through his adventures in the previous six books in the series will be expecting taut adventure, bloody and brutal battle scenes, and further heartbreak for our hero when it comes to women. They will not be disappointed! The action kicks in with yet another attempt to assassinate Beobrand - a man who attracts enemies the way buried Anglo-Saxon hoards attract metal detectorists - and the only let up after that is when the focus shifts to, yes, Beobrand’s continuing ability to make all the wrong romantic choices. However, his mistake in Fortress of Fury really is a dozy: falling in love with the king’s wife, Queen Eanflæd. It’s only with difficulty that this reviewer prevented himself from, in a literary manner, reaching into the book, grabbing Beobrand’s Welsh follower, Cynan, and telling him to urgently recount the story of Arthur, Guinevere and Lancelot to his lord. But then, the Arthurian cycle only reached its courtly form five centuries later although that does allow a metafiction thought: Cynan could become the future source of these legends by telling the tale of Beobrand, Queen Eanflæd and King Oswiu to his people. An idea, perhaps, but a better one that has already occurred to Harffy is the use of archaeological evidence to illuminate and drive his plot. Bede tells us that King Penda of Mercia laid siege to the Bernician stronghold atop the great up thrust of the Whin Sill at Bamburgh but says that the attackers were defeated when a prayer-wrought change of wind direction drove the flames they had raised outside the fortress back on themselves. Harffy uses this, but adds to it the archaeological evidence uncovered by the Bamburgh Research Project of extensive burning around St Oswald’s Gate, the original entrance to the castle, to come up with both a great storyline and a thoroughly plausible explanation of what actually happened. This is one of the great strengths of good historical fiction: it enables the writer to play with ideas of the past and Harffy makes full use of this here.
Readers who have followed Beobrand through all his adventures will thoroughly enjoy this latest instalment but this reviewer would like to add his voice to theirs and address the author: please, Matthew, please, please, please, give Beobrand some luck with women by the end of the series. May he find a woman to love, who loves him in return and who doesn’t then die horribly at the hands of his enemies. It’s not too much to ask for a hero who has served you, and the readers, so well.
Readers who have followed Beobrand through all his adventures will thoroughly enjoy this latest instalment but this reviewer would like to add his voice to theirs and address the author: please, Matthew, please, please, please, give Beobrand some luck with women by the end of the series. May he find a woman to love, who loves him in return and who doesn’t then die horribly at the hands of his enemies. It’s not too much to ask for a hero who has served you, and the readers, so well.
November 8, 2020
I was saving this for a special occasion and Biden's win was the best news of the year. It was so hard to put down but I needed to sleep and completed this cracking novel in two sessions. Once again Matthew Harffy pulls out all the stops to bring to life a relatively unknown saga from England's history. Beobrand's story will continue for many years which is good to know in the year that Bernard Cornwell concludes the "Last Kingdom" series. Here's hoping we'll be seeing "The Bernicia Chronicles" on TV before too long.
August 14, 2020
After steaming through the Bernicia Chronicles recently, this was the first one I had to wait for. And it was very much worth the wait. There's some fantastic tension in here - the interplay between Beobrand and a forbidden love interest is quite something with an unrequited smoldering and later on, just when you think that things are looking better get better in his strained relationship with the king, there's a bit of a twist that leads to a breaking point. Looking forward to the next one.
September 7, 2020
Another Masterpiece
Mr. Harffy is a master storyteller. He takes real history and weaves a ripe tale for all of us. I read all of his books with a smile on my face. I love this series and cannot wait for the next book.
Mr. Harffy is a master storyteller. He takes real history and weaves a ripe tale for all of us. I read all of his books with a smile on my face. I love this series and cannot wait for the next book.
August 16, 2020
Though this was my first time reading this author or a book from this series, I felt like it did not matter. The action and dialogue between the characters keep you the reader going and drawn to the story until the end. Beobrands Black Shields are the ones protecting the king and the people in and around. When he finds out that the Mercians have decided to invade and he must find out if that is true or not. He must prepare for an attack, while he is also fighting within himself the feelings, he has for the Queen which he knows is wrong but still can’t deny his feelings.
There seems like a lot going on but the story is done in a way that you get to know the characters and the time. You feel yourself there back in time and I found myself wanting to go and read the previous books. This one though is an excellent story and I enjoyed the characters very much. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
There seems like a lot going on but the story is done in a way that you get to know the characters and the time. You feel yourself there back in time and I found myself wanting to go and read the previous books. This one though is an excellent story and I enjoyed the characters very much. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
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October 13, 2020Another charge through dark ages England, wielding bloodied sword and shield
Harffy excels at putting the reader into the mud, blood and guts of the period. To a warrior like Beobrand, the most important things are oaths. Those that bind warlords like himself to their king and those that bind warriors to their lords, and the unspoken love of parents for their children.
But others are bound by oaths too, and although a pagan himself, he finds that the Christian marriage vows of the woman he loves can bind her to another just as firmly as a warriors path.
With war looming again in the north, Beobrand finds the simplicity of battle a relief from the tangled loyalties that overwhealm his weary senses.
Cant wait to read the next one,
Harffy excels at putting the reader into the mud, blood and guts of the period. To a warrior like Beobrand, the most important things are oaths. Those that bind warlords like himself to their king and those that bind warriors to their lords, and the unspoken love of parents for their children.
But others are bound by oaths too, and although a pagan himself, he finds that the Christian marriage vows of the woman he loves can bind her to another just as firmly as a warriors path.
With war looming again in the north, Beobrand finds the simplicity of battle a relief from the tangled loyalties that overwhealm his weary senses.
Cant wait to read the next one,
December 16, 2020
I’m bereft - no more tales of Beobrand and all the wonderful characters of this series. I have NEVER completed reading a series of books so speedily nor so enjoyably as I have those of The Bernicia Chronicles. This is a wonderful and totally absorbing series and I anxiously await the next book so I can return to the gripping tale so admirably told by a writer who makes brilliant writing look easy!
January 5, 2021
Can’t wait for more.
Harffy never disappoints. Since I’ve come to the (at present) end of this series for now... I’ll check out his other books. But I await with baited breath to continue Beobrand’s story.
Harffy never disappoints. Since I’ve come to the (at present) end of this series for now... I’ll check out his other books. But I await with baited breath to continue Beobrand’s story.
September 26, 2025
This book has a bit of everything, and it's all done to the highest quality. There's political intrigue and infighting, oaths - oh, so many oaths, a little bit of lust, and a bit pile of blood guts and 'orrible murder (attempts).
August 15, 2020
Matthew Harffy's mastery of the world he's opening up to us grows solidly with each book. Once again Beo is faced with horrors, this time mostly of his own creation. This book is a masterclass of how to not open your mouth and ask relevant questions contrasting with how to open your mouth and insert your foot in it.
I'm really enjoying watching his men develop as leaders, as he has. It's not just sword and dagger, it's diplomacy and high intrigue and most of all what do good people do when then world around them is crumbling. Contrasting with so many 'leaders' of the modern world these books show us a world we seem to have lost, where honour and your word is your bond. Hopefully Beo can manoeuvre his way around through the next book with his dignitas intact.
I'm really enjoying watching his men develop as leaders, as he has. It's not just sword and dagger, it's diplomacy and high intrigue and most of all what do good people do when then world around them is crumbling. Contrasting with so many 'leaders' of the modern world these books show us a world we seem to have lost, where honour and your word is your bond. Hopefully Beo can manoeuvre his way around through the next book with his dignitas intact.
October 22, 2020
On a par with Uthred and his adventures
Excellent addictive story based in history enough artistic license and statecraft to keep you hooked on every word !!
Congratulations
Excellent addictive story based in history enough artistic license and statecraft to keep you hooked on every word !!
Congratulations
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