50 pages • 1 hour read
Bernard CornwellThe Winter King
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Winter King by Bernard Cornwell is a grim reimagining of the King Arthur legend set after the fall of the Roman Empire, following the monk Derfel Cadarn who chronicles Arthur's rise to power as he navigates political turmoil, Saxon invaders, and internal betrayal to defend Britain and secure Mordred's throne. The book contains graphic depictions of war, violence, and sexual violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Bernard Cornwell's The Winter King captivates with its rich historical setting and dynamic characters, effectively bringing Arthurian legend to life. Critics praise its compelling storytelling and intricate narrative. Some, however, find the pacing uneven and the myriad of characters occasionally hard to follow. Overall, it's a vivid and engaging read.
Who Should Read The Winter King?
Fans of deeply immersive historical fiction with rich character development and intricate plots will enjoy Bernard Cornwell's The Winter King. Those who appreciate the Arthurian legends reimagined with gritty realism, similar to the works of Mary Stewart's The Crystal Cave or Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth, will find this novel particularly captivating.