A mercy mission in the heart of Wessex is beset with deadly, bloody dangers.
Tamworth AD831
Icel's profile continues to rise. Lord of Budworth and warrior of Mercia, he's acknowledged by King Wiglaf and his comrades to keep Mercia safe from the ravages of Wessex, the king-slayer of the East Angles, and the Viking raiders.
But, danger looms. Alongside Spring's arrival comes the almost certain threat of the Viking raiders return.
When Lord Coenwulf of Kingsholm is apprehended by a Viking and held captive on the Isle of Sheppey in Wessex held Kent, Icel is implored by Lady Cynehild to rescue her husband.
To rescue Lord Coenwulf, Icel and his fellow warriors must risk themselves twice over, for not only must they overpower the Viking raiders, they must also counter the threat of Mercia’s ancient enemy, the kingdom of Wessex as they travel through their lands.
Far from home and threatened on all sides, have Icel and his fellow warriors sworn to carry out an impossible duty?
Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/EagleofMerciasocial
Review
I recently read Eagle of Mercia by M.J. Porter and am excited to share my review with you on the blog tour today. This novel is an epic tale of courage, loyalty, and perseverance set in the turbulent world of warriors defending their kingdoms and kin.
Eagle of Mercia, written by M.J. Porter, follows a mercy mission in the heart of Wessex that is beset with deadly dangers. Lord Coenwulf of Kingsholm is held captive on the Isle of Sheppey, in Wessex held Kent, and Lady Cynehild implores Icel to save her husband. A double risk must be taken by Icel and his fellow warriors to rescue Lord Coenwulf; they must defeat Viking raiders and counter the threat of Wessex, Mercia's enemy. Far from home and threatened on all sides, Icel and his fellow warriors must survive their perilous journey and rescue Lord Coenwulf.
When jumping in mid-series, there are often many characters (and a lot of backstories) to learn about, and Eagle of Mercia was no exception. As an unfamiliar reader to the series, it took some time to learn who was who, especially with the archaic names. The protagonist is Icel, a young Mercian who is caring and loyal, and a brave fighter. The author portrays well the human side of the warriors. They have a strong bond with one another, and the group's camaraderie is clear throughout. The descriptions and dialogue between the characters allow the reader to form an affinity with them.
The Mercians led a harsh life filled with violence and strife. Through its pages, Eagle of Mercia paints a realistic picture of life in the 9th century. This includes the cruelty of war, the fear and bravery of the people, and the strong bonds they forged together.
I found the plot a little slow to start, but it soon picked up the pace. Halfway through the book, I was gripped and couldn't put it down.
I actually enjoyed this book so much that I will go back and read the first three books in the series, as well as the next when it is published!
About M J Porter
MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. They were raised in the shadow of a building that they believed housed the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia – so their writing destiny was set. The first novel in their new Anglo-Saxon series for Boldwood Son of Mercia was published in February 2022.
Follow M J Porter
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MJPorterNews
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mj-porter
