When reading 'historical fiction' I prefer more emphasis on history. I like the author to set a believable backdrop. I've recently finished Iggluden's `Emporer series' and Follet's Pillars of the Earth. Cornwell's work is in a similar vein to Iggluden, with much blood and gore, whereas Pillars is an epic novel. Nevertheless, Lords of the North is a great action adventure story with satisfying character development and an intriguing plot. Uhtred is like an old-school James Bond. It helps to have some knowledge of geography/history of Britain, but not necessary to enjoy this fast-paced romp.

Bernard Cornwell has once again merged history and fiction into an exciting read. The man is an absolute master of his craft!

An excellent and informative read. I am enjoying the whole set (4 books) and like how the author expresses himself.

I first got hooked on to Bernard Cornwell reading his first book in this series, The Last Kingdom. I think it's interesting that Uhtred journeyed all the way to Northrumbia, became a slave, and still went on to kill Ivar Ivarson in an important battle, but frankly, he could have put in more action. I felt the pace of the story was rather slow. It was more illuminating to read the first episode and the fourth one that followed, the Sword Swong. Having said that, this one is much better than the Pale Horseman.

A wonderful addition to the series! When I purchased this book (after polishing off the 1st and 2nd volumes of the series in 10 days) I had assumed it was the end of the saga. I'm pleased to know that a 4th volume has just been issued.

How good is the series? As an historical fiction buff, the author writes about a part of history which is not well known to casual students. He obviously has done his background investigations, because one gets a feel for what life might in fact have been like for folks of the 10th century.

Okay, some of the coincidences he uses are a bit incredible, but suspension of belief is something one needs to do with this kind of saga. I found it particularly interesting to read the author's afterwards, in which he made clear what had been fact, what was supposition, and what was plain made up.

Definitely a page turner. My adult son wrote in his Facebook page "I should have been a Dane in the 10th century!" I almost agree with him.

This is the third book in the Saxon Tales series, after The Last Kingdom and The Pale Horseman, which follows the anti-hero and pagan warrior Uthred. Unexpected plot twists, sword-slinging battles, blood feuds, brilliant curses, Christians vs. pagans and Danes vs. Saxons all enhance the engaging narration of the brutal Uthreds voice. Testosterone drive action doesn't get any better than this. I loved this book!

I'm a fan of Bernard Cornwell and I'll read anything he writes. For action and entertainment value, the books in THE SAXON CHRONICLES is Cornwell at his best.

But fans of pure (highly accurate) historical fiction may be disappointed in this - the third - book in the series. The fictional Uhtred becomes the type of character you might expect him to be if Hollywood turned the series into a movie. He continues to grow into the role of charismatic leader, but many of his actions or accomplishments are over the top and increasingly difficult to believe.

But if you can suspend belief, Cornwell is an amazing storyteller, capturing your attention from the start and not letting you go even when the story ends. Uhtred is just a few weeks older when LORDS OF THE NORTH opens. His experiences have jaded him, making him even more irreverent and determined to recapture Bebbanburg.

Having sworn an oath to Alfred, even though he detests him, Uhtred continues to fight for him. To this end, he furthers Alfred's plans in Northumbria after first making an ill-fated side trip to Wessex to avenge his stepfather.

Readers of the series (THE LAST KINGDOM, THE PALE HORSEMAN) will learn what happened to Uhtred's step-sister, Thyra. They will also meet Uhtred's lover.

A qualified 5-star recommendation, particularly suited for those who can suspend belief while enjoying historical fiction.