The Pale Horseman - Bernard Cornwell

The Pale Horseman is the compelling sequel to the bestselling The Last Kingdom.

Uhtred, Northumbrian born, raised a Viking and now married to a Saxon, is already a formidable figure and warrior. But at twenty he is still arrogant, pagan and headstrong, so not a comfortable ally for the thoughtful, pious Alfred. But these two, with Alfred’s family and a few of Uhtred’s companions, are apparently all that remains of the Wessex leadership after a disastrous truce.

It is the lowest time for the Saxons. Defeated comprehensively by the Vikings who now occupy most of England, Alfred and his surviving followers seek refuge in Athelney, a tidal swamp to which Alfred’s kingdom has shrunk. There, using the marsh mists for cover, they travel in small boats from one island to another, hoping to regroup and find more strength and support.

Uhtred is still attracted to rejoining his Danish foster brother and the victorious Vikings. But he finds a growing respect for the stubborn leadership of Alfred, to whom Uhtred’s support is essential if the Saxon strength is to be rebuilt and battle joined with the enemy.

The Pale Horseman is a splendid story of divided loyalties and desperate heroism, with a wonderful range of characters from Vikings to British kings in their Cornish fortresses, from political but passionate priests to enduring fishermen and farmers striving to survive as the battle sweeps over them. Uhtred and Alfred, Vikings and Saxons, are a winning combination for Bernard Cornwell.