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The Last Kingdom Books In Order (Full List)

The Last Kingdom is a series of 13 books by Bernard Cornwell. The first book published in the series is The Last Kingdom in 2004. Here is a complete list of The Last Kingdom books in order.

Last update: January 11, 2024

1. The Last Kingdom (2004)

In Bernard Cornwell's gripping historical fiction, "The Last Kingdom," a young warrior is torn between his Saxon roots and Danish captors as he navigates treacherous battles and political intrigues, painting a vivid portrait of 9th century England in turmoil.

• 📇 333 Pages
• 📝 83,250 - 99,900 Word Count
• ⏱️ 11 Hours Reading Time
• Read Amazon Reviews →

2. The Pale Horseman (2006)

In "The Pale Horseman" by Bernard Cornwell, the gripping sequel to "The Last Kingdom," Uhtred of Bebbanburg finds himself at another turning point in his destiny as he battles for Saxon England against Viking invaders. Epic battles, political intrigue, and unyielding loyalties await in this enthralling historical fiction

• 📇 349 Pages
• 📝 87,250 - 104,700 Word Count
• ⏱️ 12 Hours Reading Time

3. Lords Of The North (2007)

"Lords of the North" by Bernard Cornwell is a gripping historical fiction novel set in 9th century England. Filled with ruthless battles, political intrigues, and a complex hero, this epic tale explores the struggle for power and survival in a tumultuous time.

• 📇 317 Pages
• 📝 79,250 - 95,100 Word Count

4. Sword Song (2007)

In Bernard Cornwell's gripping novel, Sword Song, Uhtred of Bebbanburg once again finds himself embroiled in the intense web of politics and war as he fights to reclaim his ancestral lands amidst the turmoil of 9th century England. A thrilling adventure of loyalty, betrayal, and the pursuit of power.

• 📇 336 Pages
• 📝 84,000 - 100,800 Word Count

5. The Burning Land (2009)

In "The Burning Land" by Bernard Cornwell, the world of ninth-century England ignites with unyielding battles for power, honor, and survival. Uhtred of Bebbanburg must navigate treacherous politics and brutal warfare as he fights to reclaim his ancestral home. A thrilling saga of loyalty, vengeance, and destiny awaits.

6. Death Of Kings (2011)

In Death Of Kings, Bernard Cornwell unleashes his formidable storytelling prowess to transport readers to the tumultuous world of ninth-century England, as Uhtred of Bebbanburg navigates treacherous politics, blood-soaked battles, and personal vendettas in his relentless pursuit of power and revenge.

• 📇 335 Pages
• 📝 83,750 - 100,500 Word Count

7. The Pagan Lord (2013)

In "The Pagan Lord" by Bernard Cornwell, Uhtred of Bebbanburg returns for another thrilling adventure as he navigates the treacherous political landscape of 10th century England. With his fierce determination and warrior skills, Uhtred must defend his ancestral lands and face his greatest enemies to reclaim his birthright.

• 📇 303 Pages
• 📝 75,750 - 90,900 Word Count
• ⏱️ 10 Hours Reading Time

8. The Empty Throne (2014)

In "The Empty Throne" by Bernard Cornwell, the master of historical fiction, rivalries and power struggles ignite in 10th century England as King Alfred's death leaves the throne vacant and his nation vulnerable to treachery and invaders. A gripping tale of loyalty, warfare, and political intrigue.

• 📇 302 Pages
• 📝 75,500 - 90,600 Word Count

9. Warriors Of The Storm (2015)

"Bernard Cornwell's Warriors of the Storm takes readers on an exhilarating Viking adventure as Uhtred of Bebbanburg faces his toughest battle yet - against both old enemies and a new, ruthless conqueror. A thrilling blend of historical accuracy and breathtaking action."

• 📇 298 Pages
• 📝 74,500 - 89,400 Word Count

10. The Flame Bearer (2016)

In the heart-stopping conclusion to Bernard Cornwell's bestselling "The Last Kingdom" series, witness the thrilling saga of Uhtred of Bebbanburg as he faces his fiercest enemy yet and navigates the treacherous paths of loyalty, vengeance, and survival in ninth-century England.

• 📇 284 Pages
• 📝 71,000 - 85,200 Word Count
• ⏱️ 9 Hours Reading Time

11. War Of The Wolf (2018)

In Bernard Cornwell's epic tale, "War of the Wolf", the indomitable Uhtred of Bebbanburg returns at the helm of another thrilling adventure, as he battles enemies old and new, risking everything to protect his ancestral home and claim his rightful title.

• 📇 352 Pages
• 📝 88,000 - 105,600 Word Count

12. Sword Of Kings (2019)

In Bernard Cornwell's gripping historical fiction, "Sword of Kings," readers are transported to 10th century England as Uhtred of Bebbanburg embarks on a treacherous mission to regain his birthright, clashing with enemies and facing his inner conflicts along the way.

13. War Lord (2020)

War Lord, the thrilling conclusion to Bernard Cornwell's acclaimed Saxon Tales series, plunges readers back into the ruthless world of Uhtred of Bebbanburg. As he faces his greatest challenges yet, this epic historical fiction explores loyalty, war, and the will to claim ultimate power in a divided land.

The Last Kingdom Books in Order (13 Book Series)

The Last Kingdom is a series of 13 books written by Bernard Cornwell. Here, you can see them all in order! (plus the year each book was published)

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Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

• The Last Kingdom Books in Order

The Last Kingdom

The last kingdom, book 1.

Bernard Cornwell

The Pale Horseman

The last kingdom, book 2.

Lords of the North

The last kingdom, book 3.

The Last Kingdom, Book 4

The Burning Land

The last kingdom, book 5.

Death of Kings

The last kingdom, book 6.

The Pagan Lord

The last kingdom, book 7.

The Empty Throne

The last kingdom, book 8.

Warriors of the Storm

The last kingdom, book 9.

The Flame Bearer

The last kingdom, book 10.

War of the Wolf

The last kingdom, book 11.

Sword of Kings

The last kingdom, book 12.

The Last Kingdom, Book 13

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How to read The Last Kingdom books in order - every book in the series

Fans of Uhtred have plenty of stories to get stuck into.

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The Last Kingdom has been a big hit for Netflix , although it seems like new episodes could be quite some time away.

The historical drama was renewed for a fifth season this summer, but its usual 18-month production cycle could well be extended due to continuing travel restrictions and social distancing measures.

So, any avid fans eager to find out what the future has in store for Uhtred of Bebbanburg and his band of allies may wish to look towards Bernard Cornwell's series of books.

Originally titled The Saxon Stories, these novels have adopted The Last Kingdom 's name since the Netflix adaptation launched, encompassing 12 books so far and with a final entry on the way soon.

If you're up to date on the television show, that doesn't necessarily mean you should skip past the earlier novels, as there are a number of changes to The Last Kingdom books along the way that could prove confusing otherwise.

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Here's everything you need to know about The Last Kingdom book series.

Book 1: The Last Kingdom

Adapted in season one

The first instalment in Bernard Cornwell's series introduces readers to Uhtred of Bebbanburg, who was born Saxon but raised by Danes, leaving his allegiances torn between two distinct cultures. We also see the first meeting of our no-nonsense warrior and his uneasy ally King Alfred of Wessex.

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Book 2: The Pale Horseman

The second book in The Last Kingdom series picks up from the last, as Wessex finds itself besieged from all sides by the relentless onslaught of the Vikings. Uhtred and Alfred will have to work together if they are to survive, but can they set aside their clashing ideologies?

Buy The Pale Horseman on Amazon

Book 3: The Lords of the North

Adapted in season two

In book three of The Last Kingdom , Uhtred leaves Alfred's service to travel north and get revenge for the brutal murder of his adoptive father. But what he finds is a fate more savage than he could ever have imagined, one that leaves him shaken to his very core.

Buy The Lords of the North on Amazon

Book 4: Sword Song

Bernard Cornwell's fourth entry in Uhtred of Bebbanburg's epic story sees his loyalties torn between what he knows to be right and a king that will not hear his opinion. Suffice to say, tensions are running high, and that's before Uhtred grows closer to Alfred's daughter, Aethelflaed.

Buy Sword Song on Amazon

Book 5: The Burning Land

Adapted in season three

Book five in The Last Kingdom picks up some time later, were Uhtred has become wealthy in partnership with Alfred. However, as the king's health deteriorates, he begins securing the reign of his heir, a desperate bid that will once again see him ask everything of his prized warrior.

Buy The Burning Land on Amazon

Book 6: Death of Kings

King Alfred's days are numbered in book six of Bernard Cornwell's historical fantasy , as his ailing health reaches a critical condition. This puts Wessex in its most vulnerable position yet, with the dream of a uniting the disparate kingdoms of England close to disappearing forever.

Buy Death of Kings on Amazon

Book 7: The Pagan Lord

Adapted in season four

Book seven of The Last Kingdom features Uhtred's long-awaited mission to reclaim his ancestral land of Bebbanburg. But with a fearsome new Viking warlord plotting an attack on the Saxons, it appears his work defending Wessex and its people is far from over.

Buy The Pagan Lord on Amazon

Book 8: The Empty Throne

As Aethelred of Mercia lies in his deathbed in book eight , his kingdom finds itself without an heir. Although his wife, Aethelflaed, displays clear leadership ability, her claim is disregarded by the squabbling men pulling the strings. But if a solution cannot be found soon, Mercia will be exposed to a devastating attack from its enemies.

Buy The Empty Throne on Amazon

Book 9: Warriors of the Storm

To be adapted in season five

After a fragile peace was brokered by King Edward and his sister, Aethelflaed, there is a brief period of peace. But trouble is brewing once again in book nine , as the Northmen begin plotting raids on the rich lands and wealthy churches of Wessex, Mercia and East Anglia.

Buy Warriors of the Storm on Amazon

• Take a look at our Black Friday deals , where we keep track of the latest news and best deals for your shopping this year.

Book 10: The Flame Bearer

In the wake of another uneasy truce, Uhtred plots another attempt to claim back his homeland in book ten , which is currently occupied by his treacherous cousin. But new threats emerge that throw his plans into chaos, as armies from Scotland begin marching south.

Buy The Flame Bearer on Amazon

Book 11: War of the Wolf

In the 11th book in The Last Kingdom series , we meet one of the fiercest Vikings yet, King Skoll, who is intent on leading his so-called wolf warriors to victory, killing any who stand in the way. The kingdom of Northumbria rests in Uhtred's hands, and one wrong move could spell doom.

Buy War of the Wolf on Amazon

Book 12: Sword of Kings

England is descending into chaos when Cornwell's story resumes in book 12 , as Saxons clash with Vikings over land while their king falls foul to illness. Destiny dictates that Uhtred will have a deciding hand in this latest battle, as two kings make a claim for the throne but only one can rule.

Buy Sword of Kings on Amazon

Book 13: War Lord

To be released on 15th October 2020

It's the final chapter ! That's right, Cornwell is ending The Last Kingdom with this 13th entry, which will reveal the climactic end to Uhtred of Bebbanburg's story. Securing his legacy and his rightful home for generations to come will be no easy task, as threats surround Northumbria from all sides and Britain teeters on the brink of a terrible war.

Pre-order War Lord on Amazon

The Last Kingdom is available to stream on Netflix. Looking for something else to watch? Check out our guide to the best TV series on Netflix and best movies on Netflix , or visit our TV Guide .

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The Last Kingdom Series

The Saxon Stories tell the tale of Alfred the Great and his descendants through the eyes of Uhtred, an English boy born into the aristocracy of ninth-century Northumbria, captured by the Danes and taught the Viking ways. To view an online map, click here

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The Lords of the North ( 2006 )

The Lords of the North begins soon after the events described in The Pale Horseman. Uhtred, having helped Alfred secure Wessex as an independent Saxon kingdom, returns north in an attempt to find his stepsister. Instead he discovers chaos, civil war and treachery in Northumbria. He takes the side of Guthred, once a slave and now a man who would be king, and in return expects Guthred’s help in capturing Dunholm, the lair of the dark Viking lord, Kjartan. There is betrayal, romance and war, and all of it, as usual, based on real events.

The Pale Horseman ( 2005 )

The Pale Horseman (the title is a reference to Revelation 6. 8) is the second book in the tale of Uhtred, Lord of Bebbanburg, and his tangled relationship with Alfred the Great, King of Wessex in the 9th Century. The story begins on the day after the events described in The Last Kingdom end, and goes on to describe the fateful year in which the Danes capture Alfred’s kingdom and drive him as a fugitive into the marshes of Athelney. It seems that Wessex, and England, are destroyed, but Alfred is determined to make one desperate gamble that might save his kingdom . . . .

The Last Kingdom ( 2004 )

‘I had been given a perfect childhood, perfect, at least, to the ideas of a boy. I was raised among men, I was free, I ran wild, was encumbered by no laws, was troubled by no priests and was encouraged to violence.’ Uhtred is an English boy, born into the aristocracy of 9th Century Northumbria, but orphaned at ten, adopted by a Dane and taught the Viking ways. Yet Uhtred’s fate is indissolubly bound up with Alfred, King of Wessex, who rules over the last English kingdom when the Danes have overrun Northumbria, Mercia and East Anglia.

How To Read Me

Your Books in Order

The Last Kingdom Books in Order: How to read Bernard Cornwell’s Saxon Tales series?

Previously known as ‘The Warrior Chronicles/Saxon Stories’, The Last Kingdom Series is the tale of Alfred the Great and his descendants through the eyes of Uhtred Ragnarson. More precisely, written by Bernard Cornwell , this series chronicles the emergence of England as a nation on the island of Britain from the actions of King Alfred of Wessex.

If the big events are historically accurate, the story centers on Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a fictional character born to a Saxon lord in Northumbria, but captured and adopted by the Danes. A few years later, his family has been killed by a rival Danes, and Uhtred allies himself with Alfred to win back what’s rightfully his. Destiny is all!

How to read The Last Kingdom Series in order?

The Last Kingdom story is told in chronological order, you can still pick up a novel at random and read a full story with a beginning and an end, but it’s better to start from the first one to understand the main character.

• The Last Kingdom – Uhtred is a dispossessed nobleman who is captured as a child by the Danes and almost thinks of himself as a Dane. He has no love for Alfred, yet when the king of Wessex unexpectedly defeats the Danes, Uhtred is forced to choose sides. Trained to fight and ready to take his place in the shield wall, he mostly wishes to recover his father’s land, the enchanting fort of Bebbanburg by the wild northern sea.
• The Pale Horseman – The Danes had been defeated at Cynuit, but the triumph of the English is not fated to last long. The Danish Vikings quickly invade and occupy three of England’s four kingdoms – and all that remains of the once-proud country is a small piece of marshland, where Alfred and his family live with a few soldiers and retainers, including Uhtred, the dispossessed English nobleman who was raised by the Danes.
• The Lords of the North – After achieving victory at King Alfred’s side, Uhtred of Bebbanburg is returning to his home in the North, finally free of his allegiance to the King. An encounter with a vicious slave trader introduces Uhtred to Guthred, the self-proclaimed King of Northumbria. Curious about Guthred’s astounding claim, Uhtred follows him north.

• Sword Song – England is at peace, divided between the Danish kingdom to the north and the Saxon kingdom of Wessex in the south. Uhtred has finally settled down. He has land, a wife and two children, and a duty given to him by King Alfred to hold the frontier on the Thames. But then trouble stirs, new Vikings have arrived to occupy the decayed Roman city of London. Their dream is to conquer Wessex, and to do it they need Uhtred’s help.
• The Burning Land – King Alfred of Wessex is in ill health. His enemy having failed to conquer Wessex, now see their chance for victory. Led by the sword of savage warrior Harald Bloodhair, the Viking hordes attack. But Uhtred proves his worth, outwitting Harald and handing the Vikings one of their greatest defeats.
• Death of Kings – England is perched once more on the brink of chaos. King Alfred is dying; with his passing, the island of Britain seems doomed to renewed warfare. Alfred wants his son Edward to succeed him, but there are other Saxon claimants to the throne – as well as ambitious pagan Vikings to the north. With the promise of battle looming again, Uhtred is torn between competing loyalties.

• The Pagan Lord – Alfred the Great is dead and his son Edward reigns as king. Wessex survives but peace cannot hold: the Danes in the north, led by Viking Cnut Longsword, stand ready to invade and will never rest until the emerald crown is theirs. Uhtred must lead a band of outcasts north to recapture his old family home, the impregnable Northumbrian fortress Bebbanburg.
• The Empty Throne – When Æthelred, the ruler of Mercia, dies, he leaves no legitimate heir. The West Saxons want their king, but Uhtred has long supported Æthelflaed, sister to King Edward of Wessex and widow of Æethelred. Widely loved and respected, Æthelflaed has all the makings of a leader – but can Saxon warriors ever accept a woman as their ruler? The stage is set for rivals to fight for the empty throne.
• Warriors of the Storm – A fragile peace reigns in Wessex, Mercia, and East Anglia. King Alfred’s son Edward and formidable daughter, Aethelflaed, rule the kingdoms. But all around the restless Northmen, eyeing the rich lands and wealthy churches, are mounting raids. Uhtred of Bebbanburg controls northern Mercia from the strongly fortified city of Chester. But forces are gathering against him.

• The Flame Bearer – Northumbria’s Viking ruler, Sigtryggr, and Mercia’s Saxon Queen Aethelflaed have agreed on a truce. And Uhtred of Bebbanburg has the chance to take back the home his traitorous uncle stole from him so many years ago – and which his scheming cousin still occupies. But fate is inexorable and the enemies Uhtred has made and the oaths he has sworn combine to distract him from his dream of recapturing Bebbanburg. New enemies enter into the fight for England’s kingdoms
• War of the Wolf – While Uhtred might have regained his family’s fortress, it seems that a peaceful life is not to be – as he is under threat from both an old enemy and a new foe. The old enemy comes from Wessex where a dynastic struggle will determine who will be the next king. And the new foe is Sköll, a Norseman, whose ambition is to be King of Northumbria and who leads a frightening army of wolf-warriors, men who fight half-crazed in the belief that they are indeed wolves.
• Sword of Kings – It is a time of political turmoil once more as the fading King Edward begins to lose control over his successors and their supporters. There are two potential heirs-possibly more-and doubt over whether the once separate states of Wessex and Mercia will hold together. Despite attempts at pulling him into the political fray, Uhtred of Bebbanburg cares solely about his beloved Northumbria. But an oath is a strong, almost sacred commitment and such a promise had been exchanged between Uhtred and Aethelstan, his onetime companion in arms and now a potential king.

• War Lord – The epic conclusion. England is under attack. Chaos reigns. Northumbria, the last kingdom, is threatened by armies from all sides, by land and sea – and only one man stands in their way. Torn between loyalty and sworn oaths, the warrior king Lord Uhtred of Bebbanburg faces his greatest ever battle – and prepares for his ultimate fate…

Destiny is all!

• Uhtred’s Feast – The final Last Kingdom book was published in 2020, but for the author the story felt unfinished: there were some Uhtred tales he still wanted to tell, and throughout writing the books he’d become fascinated by some elements of the Anglo-Saxon world that it wasn’t possible to fully explore in the novels. When he met renowned chef Suzanne Pollak, the idea for Uhtred’s Feast was born. And here Bernard Cornwell tells those additional Uhtred stories, showing us the man behind the shield – as a young boy, as Alfred’s advisor, and as prince – while Suzanne brings his world to life through beautifully crafted recipes that open a door into the Anglo-Saxon home . . .

If you like The Last Kingdom reading order, you may want to take a look at the other famous historical series from Bernard Cornwell, the popular Richard Sharpe series .

An avid reader who likes order! Read a lot of Sci-Fi, but also hardboiled fiction, and non-fiction (mostly about the history of cinema). My favorite authors are John Wyndham, Arthur C. Clarke, Grant Morrison, Susanna Clarke, Ross MacDonald, Ed Brubaker, Matt Wagner, and Jason Pargin.

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All 13+ of The Last Kingdom Books in Order by Bernard Cornwell

Whether you’ve discovered Uhtred’s story because of the TV show or simply stumbled upon one of the books, you may now be wondering about how to read The Last Kingdom books in order.

Like most historical fiction, this series is just that: Fiction. But history buffs will rejoice in the nuggets of truth and inclusion of real historical events, even if the hows and whys are fabricated.

Originally published as the Saxon Stories series, The Last Kingdom is great for fans of medieval fantasy who like their fiction based more in reality than elves, dwarves, and other magical races.

Who is Bernard Cornwell?

Bernard Cornwell is king of the historical adventure novel. He was born in London in 1944, and grew up as an adopted child with Christian fundamentalists in Essex County. After school, he began a career with the BBC.

It was only after moving to the USA in 1980 that he decided to pursue his long-cherished dream to write. His first novel about the protagonist Richard Sharpe, a British soldier in Napoleon’s wars, appeared soon after.

It was followed by a number of Sharpe novels, some of which were filmed for television as well as a large number of other book series. Cornwell’s books take place in the American Civil War as well as in the Hundred Years’ War, in the early Middle Ages, and the Viking Age.

In addition to thoroughly researched facts and detailed battle paintings, Cornwell’s novels inspire his fans above all with their gripping stories.

With more than 30 million books sold and translated into 20 languages , Bernard Cornwell is considered the king of the historical adventure novel. For this achievement, he bears the title “Officer of the Order of the British Empire” conferred by Queen Elizabeth II. A keen sailor, Cornwell lives in Cape Cod during the summer and spends the winter in Charleston, North Carolina.

Now let’s take a closer look at The Last Kingdom books in order.

About The Last Kingdom Series

The main character in The Last Kingdom series is Uhtred. He is the son of an English nobleman who was captured by Danes at a young age and subsequently raised as one of their own. His mixed upbringing create many challenging conflicts of loyalty and Uhtred almost views himself as a Dane.

This medieval series takes place during the ninth and tenth centuries. It largely focuses on the conflict between the Kingdom of Wessex as they deal with the Viking incursion into Southern England.

Uhtred is placed in an interesting predicament when a man he despises and views as weak, King Alfred, manages to defeat the Danes. Following this surprising defeat, Uhtred’s supposed brothers turn on him. Now he must choose sides between the homeland of his birth, and the men who raised him as their own.

The Last Kingdom Books in Order by Publication

If you are looking for how to read The Last Kingdom books in order, the best way to do so is pretty straight-forward. That is because the publication and chronological order are the same. So, without further preamble, here are all 13 of The Last Kingdom books in order.

• The Last Kingdom (2004)
• The Pale Horseman (2005)
• Lords of the North (2006)
• Sword Song (2007)
• The Burning Land (2009)
• Death of Kings (2011)
• The Pagan Lord (2013)
• The Empty Throne (2014)
• Warriors of the Storm (2015)
• The Flame Bearer (2016)
• War of the Wolf (2018)
• Sword of Kings (2019)
• War Lord (2020)
• Uhtred’s Feast: Inside the World of The Last Kingdom (Expected: November 14, 2023)

The Last Kingdom Screen Adaptation

As previously mentioned, this successful book series has also been adapted into a successful TV series.

The Last Kingdom has five seasons available to stream on Netflix . It stars Alexander Dreymon as Uhtred, Emily Cox as Brida, and David Dawson as King Alfred. The fifth and final season aired in March 2022.

If you’re panicking over the TV series wrapping after five seasons and the book series being 13 books in length; fret not. The TV show began adapting roughly two books per season, and in October 2021 Netflix announced it will be producing a movie of The Last Kingdom. Alexander Dreymon will return to his role of Uhtred.

While the producer said the fifth season will fully conclude the series, there is one more story they wanted to tell. The title of the movie is Seven Kings Must Die.

A Summary of The Last Kingdom Books in Order

Whether you were first a fan of the TV show, or are looking for a refresher before you prepare for a reread, it might be helpful to know a little bit more about each book in this series. If that is the case, keep reading to find summaries for each of The Last Kingdom books in order. However, if you wish to avoid any potential spoilers, proceed with caution as some of the summaries may contain spoilers for previous books.

1. The Last Kingdom

Death comes with the dragon boats.

Northern England in 866: At the age of ten, the prince’s son Uhtred witnesses the invasion of the Vikings. His brave courage in battle impresses the leader of the Danes so much that he spares Uhtred and takes him in as a foster child. In being raised by them, Uhtred almost views himself as a Dane by the time the Northmen begin their assault on Wessex, the kingdom of King Alfred the Great and the last territory in English hands.

Uhtred most certainly has no love for Alfred, whom he considers a pious weakling and no match for Viking savagery. Yet when Alfred unexpectedly defeats the Danes and the Danes themselves turn on Uhtred, he is finally forced to choose sides.

By now he is a young man, in love, trained to fight, and ready to take his place in the dreaded shield wall. Above all, though, he wishes to recover his father’s land, the enchanting fort of Bebbanburg by the wild northern sea.

2. The Pale Horseman

And I saw a white horse, and the rider’s name was Death.

The previous defeat of the Danes at Cynuit does not last long as the Danish Vikings quickly move to invade. Before long the Danish conquerors occupy three of the four English kingdoms. The entire land of the Anglo-Saxons is in the power of the invaders — except for a small swamp area.

This is where King Alfred of Wessex hides with a few loyal followers, including Uhtred. The dispossessed English nobleman always believed that he would fight for the Danes who raised him and taught him the Viking ways if given the chance.

But when Iseult, a powerful sorceress, enters Uhtred’s life, he must consider new-found feelings. In his moment of greatest peril, Uhtred discovers a loyalty and love for his native country and ruler.

The pious King Alfred relies on God’s help, but Uhtred prefers to trust his battle-tested sword. Still, the two unequal allies are completely in agreement on one thing: A defeat would be the downfall of England.

3. Lords of the North

My sword can conquer the whole world for me .

The year is 878 and Wessex is free from the Vikings. Uhtred, the dispossessed son of a Northumbrian lord, helped Alfred win that victory. But now he finds Alfred’s lack of generosity and insistent piety repelling and disgusting.

He flees Wessex, going back north to seek revenge for the killing of his foster father and to rescue his stepsister, captured in the same raid. He needs to find his old enemy, Kjartan, a renegade Danish lord who lurks in the formidable stronghold of Dunholm.

Uhtred arrives in the north to discover rebellion, chaos and fear. His only ally is Hild, a West Saxon nun fleeing her calling. His best hope is his sword, with which he has made a formidable reputation as a warrior.

He will need the assistance of other warriors if he is to attack Dunholm and he finds Guthred, a slave who believes he is a king. He takes him across the Pennines to where a desperate alliance of fanatical Christians and beleaguered Danes form a new army to confront the terrible Viking lords who rule Northumbria.

4. Sword Song

I was a warlord in all his glory and I came to kill.

In the year 885 there is a fragile peace in England. Most of the country is occupied by the Danes, with only Wessex in the south still free. Warrior by instinct and Viking by nature, Uhtred, the dispossessed son of a Northumbrian lord, has land, a wife, and children — and a duty to King Alfred to hold the frontier on the Thames.

But a dead man has risen, and new Vikings have invaded the decayed Roman city of London with dreams of conquering Wessex…with Uhtred’s help. Suddenly Uhtred must weigh his oath to the king against the dangerous turning tide of shifting allegiances and deadly power struggles.

Uhtred — Alfred’s sharpest sword — must now make the choice that will determine England’s future.

5. The Burning Land

What is the strongest army against a woman’s hatred?

At the end of the ninth century, King Alfred of Wessex is in ill health and his heir is still an untested youth. Therefore, it falls to Alfred’s reluctant warlord Uhtred to outwit and outbattle the invading enemy Danes, led by the sword of savage warrior Harald Bloodhair.

But the sweetness of Uhtred’s victory is soured by tragedy, forcing him to break with the Saxon king. Instead, he will reclaim his ancestral fortress on the Northumbrian coast. Joining the Vikings, allied with his old friend Ragnar — and his old foe Haesten — Uhtred devises a strategy to invade and conquer Wessex itself.

But fate has very different plans.  

The Danes of East Anglia and the Vikings of Northumbria are plotting the conquest of all of Britain. When Alfred’s daughter pleads with Uhtred for help, he cannot refuse her request. In a desperate gamble, he takes command of a demoralized Mercian army, leading them in an unforgettable battle on a blood-soaked field beside the Thames.

6. Death of Kings

The king dies. The empire should live .

At the end of the ninth century England threatens to sink into chaos again. Uhtred’s master, King Alfred, is dying and war is in the air. For the Viking-raised but Saxon-born warrior, Uhtred, whose life seems to shadow the making of England, this presents him with difficult choices.

Alfred wants his son Edward to sit on the throne after him. But there are other Saxon claimants to the throne as well as ambitious pagan Vikings to the North.

Uhtred’s loyalty and vows were to Alfred, not to his son, and despite his long years of service, he is still not committed to the Saxon cause. His own desire is to reclaim his long-lost lands and castle to the north.

But the challenge to him, as the king’s warrior, is that he knows that he will either be the means of making Alfred’s dream of a united and Christian England come to pass or be responsible for condemning it to oblivion.

7. The Pagan Lord

King Alfred is dead and his son Edward has taken the throne.

At the onset of the tenth century, England is in turmoil. While the empire seems saved, the peace is fragile. Alfred the Great is dead and his son, Edward, reigns as king.

Wessex survives, but the peace cannot hold. That’s because in the North the Danish ruler Cnut Longsword desires nothing more than the emerald crown from Wessex.

Uhtred is now out of favor with the new king and cannot help. So, he decides to recapture his family seat of Bebbanburg from the Northmen with a troop of outcast warriors.

Alliances and vows will be broken and many men will die as every Saxon kingdom is drawn into the bloodiest confrontation with the Danes to date. It is a war that will decide the fate of every king and the entire English nation.

8. The Empty Throne

One champion, one hero, might decide the fate of England.

It is a time of change. The united Anglo-Saxon armies have pushed the Danes back, but the deadly danger from the North still hangs over the English lands. And now Æthelred, ruler of Mercia, is dying with no legitimate heir.

The West Saxons want their king, but Uhtred has long supported Athelflaed, sister to King Edward of Wessex and widow of Aethelred. She has all the makings of a leader — but could Saxon warriors ever accept a woman as their ruler? The stage is set for rivals to fight for the empty throne.

Meanwhile, Uhtred is still suffering from the wounds he received in battle. To recover his strength he needs to find the sword that caused the injury, but lost amid the battle’s blood and mud, how could it be traced and who among the Vikings or Saxons might be holding it?

In the end it is one champion, one hero, who will destroy the new Viking threat to Mercia and ultimately decide the fate of England.

9. Warriors of the Storm

A storm is about to descend…

A fragile peace reigns in England. The kingdom of Mercia in the north is under the rule of Æthelflæd, daughter of the late King Alfred. It has put its most experienced warlord on the northern border of the kingdom: Uhtred.

But no one can prepare them for the storm that is about to descend…

The Northmen, allied to the Irish, come in force under the cover of night. They are led by the terrifying Viking warrior, Ragnall Iverson, a fierce fighter and ruthless leader.

Ragnall has a brother with whom Uhtred has already measured himself in the past, whom he respects as a warrior – and to whom he has given his daughter as a wife. With his passionate determination, Uhtred will stop at nothing to take back his corner of Northumbria and secure the future of Bebbanburg. But for Aethelflaed and the Mercians, doubt must arise to where his loyalty lies.

It is a struggle between family and loyalty, oaths given and political demands. There is no easy solution. But the clash between the Vikings and the Saxons will resounds across the land.

10. The Flame Bearer

An uneasy peace wanes in Britain.

For many years Uhtred fought against the Danes and Northmen. Now, only one English kingdom is under the rule of a pagan Northman, Northumbria, whose king is Uhtred’s son-in-law. A precarious truce exists between Æthelflæd’s Mercia and Sigtryggr’s Northumbria.

The time of wars seems to be over, and Uhtred sees the time has come to finally recapture Bebbanburg, the seat of his forefathers.

But the peace gives birth to the desire for war. The Scots surge down and lay claim to the north of England, as the West Saxons, under Uhtred’s old enemy, Æthelhelm, invade Northumbria from the south.

If Uhtred is to succeed in recapturing Bebbanburg he must both defeat Æthelhelm’s forces and drive the Scots away before he can attack the formidable fortress by the sea. He has a small army and many enemies, but Uhtred is not the supreme warlord of Britain for nothing…

11. War of the Wolf

I will carry fire and sword through the land, and vengeance will be my only consolation.

While Uhtred might have regained his family’s fortress, it seems that a peaceful life is not to be. He is currently under threat from both an old enemy and a new foe.

The old enemy comes from Wessex where a dynastic struggle will determine who will be the next king. And the new foe is Sköll, a Norseman, whose ambition is to be King of Northumbria and who leads a frightening army of Úlfhéðnar. They are wolf-warriors, men who fight half-crazed in the belief that they are indeed wolves.

Uhtred, believing he is cursed, must fend off one enemy while he tries to destroy the other.

12. Sword of Kings

An oath of loyalty. Two warring kings. And a destiny he didn’t choose.

England is in turmoil as Vikings and Saxons battle for territory. Meanwhile, the ailing King Edward begins to lose control over his successors and their supporters. Doubt begins to build over whether the once separate states of Wessex and Mercia will hold together.

Uhtred’s focus remains on his beloved Northumbria and maintaining its independence from southern control. But despite wanting to ignore the turmoil of the Anglo-Saxon succession, a prior oath binds him to Æthelstan.

When a leading supporter of one of the candidates attacks him, followed by an unexpected appeal for help from another, Uhtred can no longer ignore his oath’s demands. With a small band of warriors he heads south, where Uhtred’s sword will leave one king dead and the other victorious. But sometimes it is hard to know the will of the gods…

13. War Lord

In the final reckoning, choose your side carefully.

Uhtred, the warrior, fought for King Alfred and his heirs all his life. Now he wants to retire in Bebbanburg, home of his forefathers. With his loyal band of warriors and a new woman by his side, his household is secure – yet Uhtred is far from safe.

But the enemies of England do not rest; Northmen, Scots, and Irish all seek to extend their borders. And King Æthelstan, whom Uhtred has always faithfully served, seems to have forgotten to whom he owes the throne.

Beyond the walls of Bebbanburg, a battle for power rages, and Uhtred is caught in the eye of the storm. Surrounded by enemies and bribes, Uhtred has to choose. Should he break his feudal oath – or go to the last, hardest battle?

Final thoughts on The Last Kingdom books in order

Now you have everything you need to know about this series, its adaptation, and how to read The Last Kingdom books in order. If you enjoy historical fiction, reading Bernard Cornwell should most definitely be on your list. This series is great for historical fiction fans, or for fans of medieval fantasy wishing to explore a new genre.

Looking for more books in order?

Check out my list of the Dune books in order .

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Last Kingdom (formerly Saxon Tales)

The last kingdom publisher's summary.

The first book in a brand-new series, The Last Kingdom is set in England during the reign of King Alfred.

Uhtred is an English boy, born into the aristocracy of ninth-century Northumbria. Orphaned at 10, he is captured and adopted by a Dane and taught the Viking ways. Yet Uhtred's fate is indissolubly bound up with Alfred, King of Wessex, who rules over the only English kingdom to survive the Danish assault.

The struggle between the English and the Danes and the strife between christianity and paganism is the background to Uhtred's growing up. He is left uncertain of his loyalties but a slaughter in a winter dawn propels him to the English side and he will become a man just as the Danes launch their fiercest attack yet on Alfred's kingdom. Marriage ties him further still to the West Saxon cause but when his wife and child vanish in the chaos of the Danish invasion, Uhtred is driven to face the greatest of the Viking chieftains in a battle beside the sea. There, in the horror of the shield-wall, he discovers his true allegiance.

The Last Kingdom , like most of Bernard Cornwell's books, is firmly based on true history. It is the first novel of a series that will tell the tale of Alfred the Great and his descendants and of the enemies they faced, Viking warriors like Ivar the Boneless and his feared brother, Ubba. Against their lives Bernard Cornwell has woven a story of divided loyalties, reluctant love, and desperate heroism. In Uhtred, he has created one of his most interesting and heroic characters and in The Last Kingdom one of his most powerful and passionate novels.

You're getting a free audiobook.

The Last Kingdom

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 1
• By: Bernard Cornwell
• Narrated by: Jonathan Keeble
• Length: 13 hrs and 28 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 193
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 173
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 173

The first book in a brand-new series, The Last Kingdom is set in England during the reign of King Alfred. Uhtred is an English boy, born into the aristocracy of ninth-century Northumbria. Orphaned at 10, he is captured and adopted by a Dane and taught the Viking ways. Yet Uhtred's fate is indissolubly bound up with Alfred, King of Wessex, who rules over the only English kingdom to survive the Danish assault. The struggle between the English and the Danes and the strife between christianity and paganism is the background to Uhtred's growing up.

• 4 out of 5 stars

New threads in an old, accurate tapestry

• By Stephen on 05-05-16
• Release date: 05-01-14
• Language: English
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 193 ratings

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• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 9,894
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 8,939
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 8,887

The story is seen through the eyes of Uhtred, a dispossessed nobleman, who is captured as a child by the Danes and then raised by them so that, by the time the Northmen begin their assault on Wessex, Alfred's kingdom and the last territory in English hands, Uhtred almost thinks of himself as a Dane.

• 5 out of 5 stars

Great series of books

• By Joshua on 10-02-15
• Release date: 12-02-14
• 5 out of 5 stars 9,894 ratings

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The Pale Horseman

• Length: 14 hrs and 6 mins
• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 6,344
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 5,769
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 5,746

At the end of The Last Kingdom , The Danes had been defeated at Cynuit, but the triumph of the English is not fated to last long. The Danish Vikings quickly invade and occupy three of England's four kingdoms - and all that remains of the once proud country is a small piece of marshland, where Alfred and his family live with a few soldiers and retainers, including Uhtred, the dispossessed English nobleman who was raised by Danes.

Great Book, Great Read...but NO AUTHOR'S NOTES!

• By reball01 on 07-06-15
• 5 out of 5 stars 6,344 ratings

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 2
• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 156
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 138
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 138

A Saxon raised by Vikings. A pagan fighting for a Christian King. The conflict at the heart of a hero will be played out in the fight for England. It is 877. Across the kingdoms of Britain the Danes are gaining strength. Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a pagan warrior, must decide who he will align with: the Vikings who raised him or Alfred, King of the West Saxons.

One of the best books in many year

• By Conrad on 10-09-16
• 5 out of 5 stars 156 ratings

The Lords of the North

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 3
• Length: 12 hrs and 44 mins
• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 269
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 249
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 249

Enter a world where bloody battles and heroic deeds combine in the historic struggle to unite Britain in the face of a common enemy. The third instalment in Bernard Cornwell's King Alfred series, follows on from the outstanding previous novels The Last Kingdom and The Pale Horseman . The year is 878 and the Vikings have been thrown out of Wessex. Uhtred, fresh from fighting for Alfred in the battle to free Wessex, travels north to seek revenge for his father's death, killed in a bloody raid by Uhtred's old enemy, renegade Danish lord, Kjartan.

• By Murray on 09-24-17
• 5 out of 5 stars 269 ratings

Lords of the North

• The Saxon Chronicles, Book 3
• Narrated by: Tom Sellwood
• Length: 13 hrs and 7 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 5,447
• Performance 4 out of 5 stars 4,776
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 4,762

The year is 878, and the Saxons of Wessex, under King Alfred, have defeated the Danes to keep their kingdom free. Uhtred, the dispossessed son of a Northumbrian lord, helped Alfred win that victory, but now he is disgusted by Alfred's lack of generosity. Uhtred flees Wessex, going north to search for his stepsister in the formidable stronghold of Dunholm.

what happen to Jonathan Keeble,

• By TmarZ on 03-23-15
• Release date: 01-24-07
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 5,447 ratings

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 4
• Length: 12 hrs and 12 mins
• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 168
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 158
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 155

The fourth in the best-selling Alfred series from number-one historical novelist, Bernard Cornwell. The year is 885, and England is at peace, divided between the Danish kingdom to the north and Alfred's kingdom of Wessex in the south. But trouble stirs, a dead man has risen and new Vikings have arrived to occupy London. It is a dangerous time, and it falls to Uhtred, half Saxon, half Dane, a man feared and respected the length and breadth of Britain, to expel the Viking raiders and take control of London for Alfred.

• By K. A. Wolstenholme on 04-03-18
• Release date: 05-08-14
• 5 out of 5 stars 168 ratings

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• The Battle for London
• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 4,736
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 4,322
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 4,302

Alfred of Wessex has survived the Danish invasions, but though he now has an uneasy truce with his enemies, fresh Viking ships are arriving to plunder and enslave the Saxons. Those Vikings must be defeated, and Alfred's first move is to deny them their fortress on the Thames, the decayed Roman city of London. His weapon is Uhtred, a warrior of formidable reputation. But neither Alfred's wisdom, not Uhtred's prowess, might be enough to save Wessex when a Viking lord captures a prize of inestimable value.

great story

• By mreverydaythang on 12-13-16
• 5 out of 5 stars 4,736 ratings

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The Burning Land

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 5
• Narrated by: Matt Bates
• Length: 13 hrs and 22 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 55
• Performance 4 out of 5 stars 45
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 45

In the last years of the ninth century, King Alfred of Wessex is in failing health, and his heir is an untested youth. The Danes, who have failed so many times to conquer Wessex, smell opportunity.... First comes Harald Bloodhair, a savage warrior leading a Viking horde, who is encouraged to cruelty by his woman, Skade. But Alfred still has the services of Uhtred, his unwilling warlord, who leads Harald into a trap and, at Farnham in Surrey, inflicts one of the greatest defeats the Vikings were ever to suffer.

• 3 out of 5 stars

They were so good but I stop here

• By Duncan on 07-03-20
• Release date: 09-05-19
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 55 ratings

• The Saxon Chronicles, Book 5
• Narrated by: John Lee
• Length: 11 hrs and 5 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 4,487
• Performance 4 out of 5 stars 3,879
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 3,882

In a clash of heroes,the kingdom is born.A t the end of the ninth century, King Alfred of Wessex is in ill health; his heir, an untested youth. His enemy, the Danes, having failed to conquer Wessex, now see their chance for victory. Led by the sword of savage warrior Harald Bloodhair, the Viking hordes attack. But Uhtred, Alfred’s reluctant warlord, proves his worth, outwitting Harald and handing the Vikings one of their greatest defeats. For Uhtred, the sweetness of victory is soon overshadowed by tragedy.

• 2 out of 5 stars
• By Erin on 06-28-11
• Release date: 01-26-10
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 4,487 ratings

Death of Kings

• Saxon Tales, Book 6
• Narrated by: Stephen Perring
• Length: 10 hrs and 22 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,927
• Performance 4 out of 5 stars 3,568
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,579

As the ninth century wanes, Alfred the Great lies dying, his dream of a unified England in danger and his kingdom on the brink of chaos. While his son, Edward, has been named his successor, there are other Saxon claimants to the throne - as well as ambitious pagan Vikings to the north. Uhtred, the Saxon-born, Viking-raised warrior, whose life seems to shadow the making of England itself, is torn between his vows and his desires....

Love Cornwell. Hate this reader

• By Bill on 04-13-15
• Release date: 01-17-12
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,927 ratings

• The Last Kingdom, Book 6
• Length: 12 hrs and 36 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 50
• Performance 4.5 out of 5 stars 46
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 46

As the ninth century wanes, England appears about to be plunged into chaos once more. For the Viking-raised but Saxon-born warrior, Uhtred, whose life seems to shadow the making of England, this presents him with difficult choices. King Alfred is dying and his passing threatens the island of Britain to renewed warfare. Alfred wants his son, Edward, to succeed him but there are other Saxon claimants to the throne as well as ambitious pagan Vikings to the north.

• 4.5 out of 5 stars 50 ratings

The Pagan Lord

• Length: 11 hrs and 41 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,975
• Performance 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,592
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 3,593

At the onset of the tenth century, England is in turmoil. Alfred the Great is dead and Edward his son reigns as king. Wessex survives but peace cannot hold: the Danes in the north, led by Viking Cnut Longsword, stand ready to invade and will never rest until the emerald crown is theirs.

Still not Johnathan Keeble

• By Amazon Customer on 02-19-19
• Release date: 01-07-14
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,975 ratings

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 7
• Length: 11 hrs and 40 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 192
• Performance 4.5 out of 5 stars 179
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 178

The new novel in Bernard Cornwell's number one best-selling series The Warrior Chronicles, on the making of England and the fate of his great hero, Uhtred of Bebbanburg. Alfred the Great is dead and Edward his son reigns as king. Wessex survives but peace cannot hold. The Danes in the north, led by Viking Cnut Longsword, stand ready to invade and will never rest until the emerald crown is theirs.

Better narrator

• By Rob on 08-26-16
• Release date: 09-26-13
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 192 ratings

The Empty Throne

• Length: 11 hrs and 12 mins
• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 3,999
• Performance 4.5 out of 5 stars 3,628
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 3,610

Britain, early 10th century AD: a time of change. There are new raids by the Vikings from Ireland, and turmoil among the Saxons over the leadership of Mercia. A younger generation is taking over. Æthelred, the ruler of Mercia, is dying, leaving no legitimate heir. The West Saxons want their king, but Uhtred has long supported Athelflaed, sister to King Edward of Wessex and widow of Aethelred. Widely loved and respected, Athelflaed has all the makings of a leader - but can Saxon warriors ever accept a woman as their ruler?

The old man still had it

• By Christopher Majetich on 03-26-18
• Release date: 01-06-15
• 5 out of 5 stars 3,999 ratings

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 8
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 137
• Performance 4.5 out of 5 stars 126
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 124

The new novel in Bernard Cornwell's number one bestselling series The Warrior Chronicles, on the making of England and the fate of his great hero, Uhtred of Bebbanburg. In the battle for power, there can be only one ruler.England is fractured, torn apart more by internal fighting than the threat of Viking invasion. The ruler of Mercia is dying, leaving no legitimate heir. His wife is a formidable fighter and great leader, but no woman has ever ruled over an English kingdom.

Entertaining

• By Rui Ribeiro on 08-23-16
• Release date: 10-23-14
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 137 ratings

Warriors of the Storm

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 9
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 134
• Performance 4.5 out of 5 stars 122
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 122

The new novel in Bernard Cornwell's number one bestselling series on the making of England and the fate of his great hero, Uhtred of Bebbanburg.B BC2's major Autumn 2015 TV show The Last Kingdom is based on the first two books in the series. A fragile peace is about to be broken…King Alfred's son Edward and formidable daughter, Æthelflaed, rule Wessex, Mercia and East Anglia. But all around the restless Northmen, eyeing the rich lands and wealthy churches, are mounting raids.

Amazing book part of a spellbounding series

• By PD on 10-19-20
• Release date: 10-08-15
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 134 ratings

• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 4,068
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 3,670
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 3,650

A fragile peace reigns in Wessex, Mercia, and East Anglia. King Alfred's son, Edward, and formidable daughter, Aethelflaed, rule the kingdoms. But all around, the restless Northmen, eyeing the rich lands and wealthy churches, are mounting raids. Uhtred of Bebbanburg, the kingdoms' greatest warrior, controls Northern Mercia from the strongly fortified city of Chester.

A good thing gone bad

• By Gino on 01-20-16
• Release date: 01-19-16
• 5 out of 5 stars 4,068 ratings

The Flame Bearer

• The Last Kingdom Series, Book 10
• Length: 10 hrs and 19 mins
• Overall 4.5 out of 5 stars 167
• Performance 4.5 out of 5 stars 156
• Story 4.5 out of 5 stars 155

The brand-new novel in Bernard Cornwell's number one best-selling series on the making of England and the fate of his great hero, Uhtred of Bebbanburg. BBC2's major TV show The Last Kingdom is based on the first two novels in the series. From the day it was stolen from me, I had dreamed of recapturing Bebbanburg. The great fort was built on a rock that was almost an island; it was massive, it could be approached only on land by a single narrow track - and it was mine.

Another winner

• By C. Ian Keay on 02-05-17
• Release date: 10-06-16
• 4.5 out of 5 stars 167 ratings

• Saxon Tales, Book 10
• Overall 5 out of 5 stars 4,213
• Performance 5 out of 5 stars 3,844
• Story 5 out of 5 stars 3,823

From the day it was stolen from me, I dreamed of recapturing Bebbanburg. The great fort had been built on a rock that was almost an island. It was massive; it could be approached only on land by a single narrow track; and it was mine. Britain is in a state of uneasy peace. Northumbria's Viking ruler, Sigtryggr, and Mercia's Saxon queen, Aethelflaed, have agreed to a truce. And so England's greatest warrior, Uhtred of Bebbanburg, at last has the chance to take back the home his traitorous uncle stole from him so many years ago.

A Rousing Tale

• By Jean on 12-13-16
• Release date: 11-29-16
• 5 out of 5 stars 4,213 ratings
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The Last Kingdom (The Saxon Chronicles Series #1) Hardcover – January 25, 2005

The first installment of Bernard Cornwell’s bestselling series chronicling the epic saga of the making of England, “like Game of Thrones, but real” ( The Observer , London)—the basis for The Last Kingdom , the hit Netflix television series.

This is the exciting—yet little known—story of the making of England in the 9th and 10th centuries, the years in which King Alfred the Great, his son and grandson defeated the Danish Vikings who had invaded and occupied three of England’s four kingdoms.

The story is seen through the eyes of Uhtred, a dispossessed nobleman, who is captured as a child by the Danes and then raised by them so that, by the time the Northmen begin their assault on Wessex (Alfred’s kingdom and the last territory in English hands) Uhtred almost thinks of himself as a Dane. He certainly has no love for Alfred, whom he considers a pious weakling and no match for Viking savagery, yet when Alfred unexpectedly defeats the Danes and the Danes themselves turn on Uhtred, he is finally forced to choose sides. By now he is a young man, in love, trained to fight and ready to take his place in the dreaded shield wall. Above all, though, he wishes to recover his father’s land, the enchanting fort of Bebbanburg by the wild northern sea.

This thrilling adventure—based on existing records of Bernard Cornwell’s ancestors—depicts a time when law and order were ripped violently apart by a pagan assault on Christian England, an assault that came very close to destroying England.

• Book 1 of 13 The Last Kingdom
• Print length 352 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Harper
• Publication date January 25, 2005
• Dimensions 6 x 1.13 x 9 inches
• ISBN-10 0060530510
• ISBN-13 978-0060530518
• See all details

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Editorial Reviews

From publishers weekly, from booklist.

“Intoxicating….Thrilling….Cornwell conveys the disquiet of change and the melancholy of extinction as few historical novelists manage to.” — Washington Post Book World

“Enter Cornwell’s vividly drawn ninth-century Kingdom … after this dip into the Dark Ages, we want to go back.” — Entertainment Weekly

“Enthralling ... the desperate, heroic struggle of Alfred “the Great” ... against the seemingly invincible Vikings. — Wall Street Journal

“History comes alive.” — Boston Globe

“A crackling good storyteller.” — Publishers Weekly

“Cornwell .... makes the usually gloomy ninth century sound like a hell of a lot of fun.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Highly recommended … another great historical series in the making.” — Library Journal (starred review)

“Masterful....[An]irresistible epic adventure....Cornwell deserves praise for his mesmerizing narrative finesse and his authentic historical detailing.” — Booklist

From the Back Cover

The first installment of Bernard Cornwell’s bestselling series chronicling the epic saga of the making of England, “like Game of Thrones, but real” ( The Observer , London)—the basis for  The Last Kingdom , the hit BBC America television series.

About the Author

Bernard Cornwell is the author of over fifty novels, including the acclaimed New York Times bestselling Saxon Tales, which serve as the basis for the hit Netflix series The Last Kingdom. He lives with his wife on Cape Cod and in Charleston, South Carolina.

From The Washington Post

Reviewed by Katherine A. Powers Copyright 2005, The Washington Post Co. All Rights Reserved.

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

The last kingdom, harpercollins publishers, chapter one.

The Danes were clever that day. They had made new walls insidethe city, invited our men into the streets, trapped them betweenthe new walls, surrounded them, and killed them. They did not kill allthe Northumbrian army, for even the fiercest warriors tire of slaughterand, besides, the Danes made much money from slavery. Most of theslaves taken in England were sold to farmers in the wild northernisles, or to Ireland, or sent back across the sea to the Danish lands, butsome, I learned, were taken to the big slave markets in Frankia and afew were shipped south to a place where there was no winter andwhere men with faces the color of scorched wood would pay goodmoney for men and even better money for young women.

But they killed enough of us. They killed Ælla and they killedOsbert and they killed my father. Ælla and my father were fortunate,for they died in battle, swords in their hands, but Osbert was capturedand he was tortured that night as the Danes feasted in a citystinking of blood. Some of the victors guarded the walls, others celebratedin the captured houses, but most gathered in the hall ofNorthumbria's defeated king where Ragnar took me. I did not knowwhy he took me there, I half expected to be killed or, at best, soldinto slavery, but Ragnar made me sit with his men and put a roastedgoose leg, half a loaf of bread, and a pot of ale in front of me, thencuffed me cheerfully round the head.

The other Danes ignored me at first. They were too busy gettingdrunk and cheering the fights that broke out once they were drunk,but the loudest cheers came when the captured Osbert was forced tofight against a young warrior who had extraordinary skill with asword. He danced around the king, then chopped off his left handbefore slitting his belly with a sweeping cut and, because Osbert wasa heavy man, his guts spilled out like eels slithering from a rupturedsack. Some of the Danes were weak with laughter after that. The kingtook a long time to die, and while he cried for relief, the Danes crucifieda captured priest who had fought against them in the battle.They were intrigued and repelled by our religion, and they wereangry when the priest's hands pulled free of the nails and someclaimed it was impossible to kill a man that way, and they arguedthat point drunkenly, then tried to nail the priest to the hall's timberwalls a second time until, bored with it, one of their warriorsslammed a spear into the priest's chest, crushing his ribs and manglinghis heart.

A handful of them turned on me once the priest was dead and,because I had worn a helmet with a gilt-bronze circlet, they thought Imust be a king's son and they put me in a robe and a man climbedonto the table to piss on me, and just then a huge voice bellowed atthem to stop and Ragnar bullied his way through the crowd. Hesnatched the robe from me and harangued the men, telling them Iknew not what, but whatever he said made them stop and Ragnarthen put an arm around my shoulders and took me to a dais at theside of the hall and gestured I should climb up to it. An old man waseating alone there. He was blind, both eyes milky white, and had adeep-lined face framed by gray hair as long as Ragnar's. He heard meclamber up and asked a question, and Ragnar answered and thenwalked away.

"You must be hungry, boy," the old man said in English.

I did not answer. I was terrified of his blind eyes.

"Have you vanished?" he asked. "Did the dwarves pluck youdown to the underearth?"

"I'm hungry," I admitted.

"So you are there after all," he said, "and there's pork here, andbread, and cheese, and ale. Tell me your name."

I almost said Osbert, then remembered I was Uhtred. "Uhtred," Isaid.

"An ugly name," the old man said, "but my son said I was to lookafter you, so I will, but you must look after me too. You could cut mesome pork?"

"Your son?" I asked.

"Earl Ragnar," he said, "sometimes called Ragnar the Fearless.Who were they killing in here?"

"The king," I said, "and a priest."

"Which king?"

"Did he die well?"

"Then he shouldn't have been king."

"Are you a king?" I asked.

He laughed. "I am Ravn," he said, "and once I was an earl and awarrior, but now I am blind so I am no use to anyone. They should beatme over the head with a cudgel and send me on my way to the netherworld."I said nothing to that because I did not know what to say. "ButI try to be useful," Ravn went on, his hands groping for bread. "I speakyour language and the language of the Britons and the tongue of theWends and the speech of the Frisians and that of the Franks. Languageis now my trade, boy, because I have become a skald."

"A scop, you would call me. A poet, a weaver of dreams, a manwho makes glory from nothing and dazzles you with its making. Andmy job now is to tell this day's tale in such a way that men will neverforget our great deeds."

"But if you cannot see," I asked, "how can you tell what happened?"

Ravn laughed at that. "Have you heard of Odin? Then youshould know that Odin sacrificed one of his own eyes so that hecould obtain the gift of poetry. So perhaps I am twice as good a skaldas Odin, eh?"

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Harper; F First Edition (January 25, 2005)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 352 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0060530510
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0060530518
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.33 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 1.13 x 9 inches
• #1,823 in Military Historical Fiction
• #2,685 in War & Military Action Fiction (Books)
• #4,863 in War Fiction (Books)

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About the author

Bernard cornwell.

Bernard Cornwell was born in London and worked in television until he met his American wife and moved to the US. Denied a work permit, he wrote a novel and has been writing ever since.

A master storyteller with a passion for history, his current bestselling series, THE LAST KINGDOM, is centred around the creation of England. It is also a major TV series on Netflix, with Bernard playing a cameo role in season three. The fourth season is currently being filmed.

He is also the author of THE GRAIL QUEST series, set in the Hundred Years’ War, THE WARLORD chronicles, set in Arthurian Britain, a number of standalone novels, one non-fiction work on Waterloo and the series with which he began, the SHARPE series.

For exciting news, tour and publication details, and exclusive content from Bernard visit www.bernardcornwell.net and like his author page on Facebook/Bernard.Cornwell

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Customers say

Customers find the storyline and plot amazing, stunning, and flow well through the entire series. They also praise the writing style as very well written, easy to like, and gritty and real. Readers describe the main characters as richly developed. They say the content is thoroughly researched, believable, and varied. They appreciate the immersive visuals and entertainment value. Customers say the book is fast paced and easy to read.

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Customers find the storyline and plot interesting enough to keep them going. They also appreciate the fast-paced, historically accurate happenings and vivid, exquisite battle scenes. Readers praise the book as the intro to a talented historical writer and say it has an authentic vibe. They mention that the book has the teasing of romance, bantering fun between the characters, and a developed character that flows well through the entire series.

"...battles are epic, the story is fast paced, and the plot twists will keep you turning pages .Buy it if you love Vikings...." Read more

"...so this one is basically a viking tale and there's a great deal more historical information to work with in telling it, including the record left..." Read more

"...writing is easy to read, the novel is fast-paced and based on historically accurate happenings ..." Read more

"...The battle scenes are packed with detailed action , putting the reader in the middle of the battle." Read more

Customers find the book a good read, providing hours of inexpensive entertainment. They also say the book is likeable and worthwhile.

"... It's amazing !" Read more

"...But The Last Kingdom is a decent read , too, and better than some of Cornwell's other efforts.SWM..." Read more

"... Great read , enjoyable picture of early Great Britain; looking forward to getting the next book in the series." Read more

"... Worth the read ." Read more

Customers find the writing style very well written, with great quotes throughout the book. They also say it's fun to read aloud or to oneself, accurate, and educational. Readers appreciate the depth of detail and the complex, well developed character.

"...Because Uhtred is a warrior and not a scholar, the writing style is plain , simple, but still manages to be epic and visceral!Action..." Read more

"...just lots of fighting and running (or sailing) about. But it's all well told and keeps the reader with Uhtred all the way...." Read more

"...Cornwell's writing is easy to read , the novel is fast-paced and based on historically accurate happenings..." Read more

"...The characters were well done, and the descriptions of the locations were gritty and real , giving me the sense that I was back in that terrible time...." Read more

Customers find the book entertaining, with a great adventure and relatable characters. They also say the book is suspenseful, with humor and curiosity.

"...When the races and cultures are well defined and the action is exciting , you really don't need fantasy.Maturity: Teen..." Read more

"... It's exciting , about an obscure part in history for those of us in the U.S...." Read more

"...historical war novels but Cornwell's battles are so well written and engaging , I did not find myself bored or lost...." Read more

"...The first person narrative combines humor and pathos to capture the significant historical events of the period, the people involved in them, and..." Read more

Customers find the main characters in the book richly developed and likable. They also describe the prose as some of the most memorable and unforgettable of the genre.

"...CharactersThe characters are all deep and well written. They have their own motivations for their actions and their beliefs...." Read more

"...The characters were well done , and the descriptions of the locations were gritty and real, giving me the sense that I was back in that terrible time...." Read more

"...The characters are interesting , the time period comes to life, the plot keeps me wanting to know what happens next...." Read more

"...I thought the sets and settings were believable and loved the cast ." Read more

Customers find the pacing of the book fast, and say it moves right along. They say the book has the right amount of timely detail to put the reader in the moment. Readers also mention that the characters have depth and move and breathe well.

"...There heroes are memorable, the battles are epic, the story is fast paced , and the plot twists will keep you turning pages...." Read more

"...Cornwell's writing is easy to read, the novel is fast-paced and based on historically accurate happenings..." Read more

"...This is a fun tale and fast-paced , an easy read...." Read more

"...The beginning began slowly . Not until the middle did the story develop to become increasingly compelling...." Read more

Customers find the book well-written, thoroughly researched, and educational. They also say the Saxon series is educating, interesting, and all-consuming of one's thoughts. Customers also mention that the author has a terrific ability to both understand life and its limitations in different ways. They appreciate the cool index that tells various names for various characters. Overall, customers describe the book as a great find with consistently reasonable beliefs and appropriate actions.

"I especially like the authors notes that explain the facts ...." Read more

"... Most of his research is good and his grasp of the period--other than the obvious religion thing--is great...." Read more

"...I was amazed by Ragnar's family loyalty, love of battle, intelligence and curiosity. I could see why a young child would think he was a hero...." Read more

"...His beliefs are consistently reasonable , his actions consistently appropriate, his character consistently well-formed, so that he learns quickly...." Read more

Customers find the visuals in the book immersive and solid, but not too weighty. They also say it makes for an immersive look at a period they knew little about.

"This one is a nicely done rendition of the period when the Danes were overrunning England and Alfred, king of the holdout English kingdom of Wessex..." Read more

"...Great read, enjoyable picture of early Great Britain ; looking forward to getting the next book in the series." Read more

"...right to tell The Last Kingdom from Uhtred’s perspective—it makes for an immersive look at a period I knew little about...." Read more

"...the storyline is excellent, the supporting cast both humorous and vibrant , and the battle scenes exquisite - the latter of these being my favorite..." Read more

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