The Road to Hastings
2 primary works • 3 total works
Book 1
'Excellent' Stewart Binns, author of the Making of England series
The fight for England began long before 1066…AD 1045. Godwin of Wessex, one of the most powerful earls in the country, prepares for the marriage of his daughter to King Edward of England. The mood is jubilant, his family’s relationship with the Crown secured through matrimony. But one man seeks to undermine him at every opportunity.
French-born Bishop of London, Robert of Jumièges, has the ear of the king. As a trusted adviser, his position is one of power and privilege, and he wields it to gain ever-greater influence over the English Crown for his kinsmen in Normandy, at Godwin’s expense.
As the bishop’s control increases, the king’s relationship with the House of Godwin frays until, eventually, it breaks down completely. With civil war looming, Godwin fights to pull England back from the brink. But with the king under Norman influence, it could be too little, too late.
The Challenges of a King is the first book in a thrilling new series from K. M. Ashman exploring the politics, promises and intrigue that led three men to contest the throne in 1066, and to the final successful invasion of England. Perfect for fans of Conn Iggulden and Bernard Cornwell.
Praise for The Challenges of a King'The Challenges of a King is an excellent read. The historical accuracy tied to a fictional account is highly commendable and the narrative moves along at a gripping pace. The dialogue is sharp and authentic and the story is told clearly and concisely. I highly recommend the book to anyone who loves historical fiction' Stewart Binns, author of the Making of England series
Book 2
AD 1055. With the crisis of 1051 long behind them and finally coming to terms with the death of Sweyn, the Godwin family’s influence across England is growing. Harold enjoys a position of trust with King Edward and the country is at peace, but Edward knows that he needs an heir before it is too late.
In Hungary, there is one potential heir with royal blood running through his veins, but before he can be contacted another king, much closer to home, rises to power, and Harold finds himself torn between diplomacy and violence to maintain the peace.
With King Edward relying on him more and more, Harold travels to Normandy to find the two hostages still missing after many years. But while there, he uncovers a situation far more dangerous than any threat from the Welsh king...
With England now being torn apart by internal politics, can Harold forge unity amongst his fellow nobles before it is too late?
The gripping next step along the road to Hastings, perfect for fans of Conn Iggulden.
1066 dawns on a fractious England. The death of Edward the Confessor has set in motion a chain of events that can no longer be stopped.
In London, Harold Godwinson, anointed king by Edward on his deathbed, girds the nation for war.
Across the channel in Normandy, Duke William prepares his invasion fleet to sail, supported by Harald’s treacherous brother, Tostig, who has promised to help William strike at the very heart of England.
Battle shall be joined in Hastings, and the future of the country decided with sword, lance and bow.
K. M. Ashman delivers the epic showpiece finale to the Road to Hastings trilogy, perfect for fans of Conn Iggulden and David Gilman.