Warrior of Woden

Book excerpt: THE NEW BERNICIA CHRONICLES NOVEL FROM MATTHEW HARFFY, SHADOWS OF THE SLAIN, AVAILABLE TO PREORDER NOW! When the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria is invaded by a fearsome foe, warlord Beobrand must answer the call to arms once more. An action-packed historical thriller in the Bernicia Chronicles, perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell. AD 642. Oswald has reigned over Northumbria for eight years, and warlord Beobrand has brought him ever greater victories. Rewarded for his fealty and prowess in battle, Beobrand is now wealthy, with a sizeable warband of his own. Tales of Beobrand's fearsome black-shielded warriors and the great treasure he has amassed are told throughout the land. Many are the kings who bow to Oswald. And yet there are those who look upon his realm with a covetous eye. And there is one ruler who will never kneel before him: Penda of Mercia, the great killer of kings. When Penda invades Northumbria, Beobrand is once more called upon to stand in an epic battle where much blood will be shed in defence of the kingdom. But in this climactic clash between the pagan Penda and the Christian Oswald, there is much more at stake than sovereignty. This is a battle for the very souls of the people of Albion. Reviews for Matthew Harffy 'Historical fiction doesn't get much better than this' ANGUS DONALD 'Nothing less than superb' HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY 'Beobrand is the warrior to follow' DAVID GILMAN