Sword Song & The Burning Land (The Last Kingdom Book 4 & 5) 2 Books Collection

Sword Song & The Burning Land brings together the fourth and fifth instalments of Bernard Cornwell's acclaimed The Last Kingdom series, immersing readers in the tumultuous world of Viking warfare and the struggle for power in a fractured land.

The Plot

In Sword Song, we follow Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a warrior caught between loyalty and ambition. Faced with the decision to either serve King Alfred or pursue his own destiny, Uhtred navigates the treacherous waters of allegiance, betrayal, and the quest for personal honour. His journey is one of internal conflict as he grapples with the weight of his choices amidst the backdrop of war-torn England.

The narrative continues in The Burning Land, where Uhtred must confront both external enemies and his own past. As Saxon and Viking forces clash, he is drawn into a battle that will determine the fate of the realm. With the stakes higher than ever, Uhtred's resolve is tested as he endeavours to reclaim his ancestral home while grappling with the complexities of leadership and loyalty.

Themes

• The struggle for identity in a divided land
• The nature of power and the burdens of leadership
• The conflict between duty and personal desire

Cornwell's masterful storytelling combines rich historical detail with vivid characterisation, making this collection a compelling read for both fans of historical fiction and newcomers alike. Readers who have enjoyed titles like Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel or Outlander by Diana Gabaldon may find themselves captivated by Uhtred's saga.

"A gripping tale of ambition and conflict set against the backdrop of a brutal age." - Historical Novel Society