1356

by Bernard Cornwell

First published 2013

Thomas of Hookton commands a company of English bowmen and soldiers who pillage the French countryside near Gascony. This battle-hardened veteran of Crecy now faces an urgent mission that could change the course of war. La Malice, a legendary blade said to guarantee victory to whoever wields it, lies hidden somewhere near Poitiers. Thomas must find this mythical weapon before the looming clash between English and French forces. The Black Prince gathers his army for another campaign against France, but Thomas cannot join until he completes his quest. Enemy agents from France and Scotland also hunt the sword, while some of his own countrymen work against him for personal gain. As the massive French army prepares to crush the outnumbered English forces, Thomas races against time and treachery. The search for La Malice becomes entangled with the fate of two nations as one of medieval warfare's most decisive battles approaches.

Genres: historical-fiction, military-fiction, adventure, action

Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking

Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, quest

Setting: Crecy, France, Gascony, Poitiers, Scotland

Period: Medieval

417 pages · Hardcover · HarperCollins

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