The Saxon Stories
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The Saxon Stories is a continuing series of books written by the historical novelist Bernard Cornwell about 9th century Britain.
The following novels are available so far:
- The Last Kingdom
- The Pale Horseman
- The Lords of the North (released in the USA January 2007)
The protagonist of the series - very similar to that of Derfel Cadarn from The Warlord Chronicles - Uhtred Uhtredson (sometimes known as Uhtred Ragnarson) is born in Northumbria, but raised and trained by the Danes. The story takes place during the Danish invasion of Britain, where all but one of the British Kingdoms are conquered by these raids. The story centers on the ruler of Wessex - Alfred, later historically dubbed 'the Great'.
The series are frequently compared to the Warlord Chronicles, not only because of the orphaned protagonist, but also the similarities between the foreign menace in the face of Vikings, whose resemblance as fierce warriors to the Saxons is obvious. Also Alfred resembles Arthur in his mission as the only man to save England of the non-stoppable threat.
Book three in the series; The Lords of the North has been published in UK, Canada and Australia in May 2006, and is to be published in the US during January 2007.
Bernard Cornwell makes mention in the historical notes at the end of The Lords of the North that he intends to continue writing The Saxon Stories, so will extend further than a trilogy. The story has not notably concluded in that novel. On his website, Bernard Cornwell indicates he may write seven or eight novels under The Saxon Stories banner.
Bernard Cornwell also mentions that he is in fact distantly descended from a historical Uthred of Bebbanburg, of which the stories main protagonist is based on.
