Three Kings, One Throne
Formats: E-Book, Audio, Paperback
Ages: 18+
In a panoramic novel against a backdrop of violence and political turbulence in the eleventh century, Ivar, a Danish orphan is enslaved to the most successful and experienced soldier of the age. He eventually becomes one of the elite bodyguard of the Emperor of Turkey. Meanwhile his distant relative, Torkil, the grandson of an Anglo Norse thayne, advances his military career in the service of Harold Godwinson. History dictates that one day the two warriors, caught up in the maelstrom of treachery, carnage, greed, lust and loyalty, will meet. When they do, there are devastating results for one of them, his king and his country. The crown of England was the most contested in all Europe. On the death of Edward the Confessor, Harold Godwinsson took possession of it. In 1066 two other claimants to the throne, a Norwegian and a Norman tried to wrest it from him. This is the story of Ivar, Torkil and those who risked all for the throne of England.
Reviews
Michael Wills has written a beautifully simplistic story for young adults. He has done some breathtaking research and constructed a novel which gives enough of the brutality of the age without causing nightmares to the reader. It is colourful and rich, the descriptions of the various cities in which the action takes place is vivid and helpful annotations explain to the reader where places are or describe items that may be unfamiliar. I give "Three Kings - One Throne (Finn's Legacy)e" 5 Crosses!
What's interesting is that the story is narrated by two protagonists who are caught on opposing sides; Torkil, an Anglo Saxon thayne is on the side of Godwinson, whilst Ivar, a Danish orphan is part of the Norwegian opposing forces. Michael Wills has done an admirable job in bringing together all the intricate historical details, and has woven a credible tale of adventure and political skulduggery.
