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42 pages 1 hour read

Bernard Cornwell

The Last Kingdom

Bernard CornwellFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Bernard Cornwell

The Last Kingdom

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

England • 9th Century

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell follows young Saxon noble Uhtred, who is captured by Danish invaders in 866 after his father is killed. Adopted by the Danish warlord Ragnar, Uhtred is raised as a Dane and becomes an exceptional warrior. Torn between his Saxon heritage and his Danish upbringing, Uhtred joins Saxon King Alfred in the fight against the Dane invaders, distinguishing himself in pivotal battles while seeking to reclaim his ancestral home. The novel contains graphic depictions of violence, including battles and personal assaults.

Adventurous

Gritty

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

124,214 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Bernard Cornwell's The Last Kingdom is lauded for its vivid historical detail and compelling character development, immersing readers in a richly depicted 9th-century England. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and certain narrative arcs predictable. Overall, it's praised as an engaging start to the Saxon Stories series.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Last Kingdom?

A reader who enjoys The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell would likely appreciate historical fiction rich with action and detailed battle scenes. Fans of Conn Iggulden's Conqueror series or Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth may find similar enjoyment. Ideal for those fascinated by medieval history and complex characters.

4.4

124,214 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

England • 9th Century

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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