Review ~ Brothers Fury by Giles Kristian

May 23rd 2013
Random House UK,Transworld Publishers


Rebel : Renegade : Huntress

If The Bleeding Land lays down the visceral gauntlet of war, then this continuation of the English Civil war story, in Brothers Fury, certainly continues the theme of mayhem and destruction, however, this time the narrative is interspersed with a more character centred focus, namely, on the two brothers whose fury is duly illustrated. Thomas and Edmund Rivers continue the quest to fight for their beliefs, and whilst both brothers are admirable in their loyalty, it is the very fact that they remain on opposing sides, which gives the book its heart and soul.

Giles Kristian never shies away from the graphic and true nature of conflict, but he seems to have mellowed the story in this middle book of the trilogy. There seems to be less emphasis on shock tactics and more focus on purpose, and the added inclusion of sister Bess’s role as she seeks to unite her family adds a more subtle touch to what is still, in effect, one of the best English Civil war stories.

There is no doubt that the author has found his niche with his interpretation of history, and yet what’s refreshing is that whilst his historical narratives are realistic to the point of explicitness, there is never any doubt that the story being recounted is as powerful and as accurate as the author can make it.

I am sure that the conclusion of the trilogy will be every bit as powerful.

My thanks to NetGalley and Random House Uk, Transworld Publishers for my ecopy of this book.

My Review of The Bleeding Land can be found here.