JAMES AITCHESON is the author of a series of medieval historical novels about Tancred, an ambitious knight who seeks venegance following his lord’s murder. Set amidst the chaos of the Norman Conquest, they tell the story of the battle for England, and how the kingdom was won and lost in the years immediately after 1066.
The first book in the Conquest Series, Sworn Sword, was originally published in the UK in 2011 and has since been followed by two sequels: The Splintered Kingdom and Knights of the Hawk. The series is being published in the UK, US and Germany.
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“A terrific writer … Aitcheson’s portrayal of eleventh century England is vibrant and authentic. Rarely have I been so transported into the world of the medieval knight and his environs. Full of intrigue and vivid, realistic battles, this accomplished debut novel sets a high standard indeed.”
Ben Kane, bestselling author of the Spartacus novels
“What a triumph! Aitcheson has turned a familiar story into a fantastic novel. The plot is superb, clever and as true to the sources as is possible … a brilliant achievement.”
Professor Elisabeth van Houts, Emmanuel College, Cambridge
“Aitcheson neatly mixes action and intrigue in equal measure.”
BBC History Magazine
“Action-packed, [Sworn Sword] is the first in a promising series, set in a fascinating period.”
Mail on Sunday
“A well judged mix of action, intrigue and thoughtfulness … told in lucid, lively prose that sets scenes vividly and carries the plot forward.”
Historical Novels Review
“Fans of sword-swinging drama still mourning the end of HBO’s epic Game of Thrones will find plenty to love in this uncompromising slice of historical fiction … Breathlessly paced and packed with action, it’s a mightily accomplished debut in a major new series.”
ShortList
“Aitcheson brings excitement and intrigue to a bloody period of medieval history – one that is underrepresented in the genre … [and] shows great promise as an adventure novelist in this colorful debut.”
Publishers Weekly
“The setting and historical detail are superb and there is more than enough excitement to keep you hooked to the final page.”
NewBooks Magazine
