This is what historical fiction should be. For me, this book was everything I love about history and medieval fiction. It also reminded me of why 1066 and the period after is one of my favourite periods of history.

The story is effectively three pronged, focusing on three hugely impactful events of 1066 that changed the course of English history. There is the threat from Harald Hadrada and Tostig, the threat from William, Duke of Normandy and Harold’s fight to protect his throne and England.

The Fate of a King lays out the events before and during the Battle of Hastings in 1066 in a very digestible and easy read. It’s beefy on battles and politics, which I love, without being too dense or difficult to follow. The tone feels almost quite conversational and very natural, which helps immerse the reader into the chaotic and bloody world.

It was great to read a book that focused on Harold and portrayed him as a 3D character. I haven’t read many books that focus on him, so it was very interesting to see Ashman’s take on him as an effective, charismatic and strategic ruler.

I learnt a lot from this book, such as the use of fyrds and their deployment in helping protect England, and the character of Tostig, Harold’s treacherous brother who I hadn't heard of before. It felt very authentic, reinforcing what I already know and weaving in new ideas and historical moments that helped me understand more about this period.

Overall, a meaty, gripping and exciting piece of historical fiction, focusing on one of the most significant events of Medieval England.

I love Ashman's books, ever since reading his Roman series nearly 14 years ago. There are engaging characters to love, and antagonists you'll love to hate, there's plenty of action with skirmishes and large battles alike, and scenery described with real love.

One of the most important and frightening years in British history - 1066.

I really enjoyed this book about King Harold and his extraordinary bloody battles against William of Normandy & the Viking Harald Hardrada of Norway. To be a king during this period entailed being involved in almost constant warfare and forging alliances with untrustworthy leaders from other nations. Looking back through history, it is unimaginable to have three or four major battles in one year with many thousands of dead soldiers and still continue to be optimistic about a positive outcome.
The author skillfully immerses you in the everyday personal life of King Harold, including his two wives.
I always understood that the Pope sanctioned Williams's invasion of England. However, the author disputes that this is the case.
I recommend this book but mark it down very slightly, I found some of the conversations were a bit too modern in idiom.

The amazing and well told story of the reign and death of Harold Godwinsson. Though this is the third book in a trilogy, it works as a standalone novel.