The Last Kingdom Book Review

Tevin Daniels
The Imagination Times
5 min readMay 7, 2023

Are you a fan of historical fiction set in the 9th-century Anglo-Saxon kingdom? If so, then you have come to the right place. The Last Kingdom, a gripping tale by acclaimed author Bernard Cornwell, is a must-read for anyone eager for an entertaining and captivating read about one of England’s most tumultuous periods. This review will introduce this celebrated novel and show why it deserves its status as one of the most significant historical works ever written. So settle in and get ready to journey into Cornel’s world — a world teeming with threats from without and treachery from within!

1. Introducing the Last Kingdom Book Series and its Historical Context

2. Characters and Plot Overview of the Last Kingdom

3. Uhtred’s Journey from Page to Screen

4. Themes of Friendship, Honor, and Loyalty

5. Recommended Reading for Fans of Historical Fiction

6. Final Thoughts on The Last Kingdom

Introducing the Last Kingdom Book Series and its Historical Context

Welcome to the Last Kingdom book series, a gripping tale set during the tumultuous time of the 9th century when the Vikings were d. Written by acclaimed author Bernard Cornwell, the series follows the journey of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon nobleman captured and raised by the Danes. Navigates through the political and religious strife of the era. The Last Kingdom series is a thrilling adventure and a fascinating look at the historical context in which it is based. From Alfred the Great to battle tactics and weaponry, readers will be immersed in the intricate details of the period. Experience the Last Kingdom and be transported back into a world of epic battles and heroic legends.

Characters and Plot Overview of the Last Kingdom

The Last Kingdom is an enthralling series that takes viewers back to the 9th century AD when Britain was divided into several kingdoms, each fighting for land and power. At the center of it is the protagonist, Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a skilled warrior torn between his loyalties to the Danes and the Saxons. The characters are richly developed, each with their unique backstory and motivations, which adds depth and complexity to the plot. As Uhtred navigates the treacherous world around him, he faces betrayals, love, loss, and the constant threat of war. The Last Kingdom is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good historical drama with compelling characters and an engaging plot.

Uhtred’s Journey from Page to Screen

Uhtred’s journey from page to screen has been quite an adventure. Fans of Bernard Cornwell’s historical novel series, “The Saxon Stories,” were thrilled to see the fearless warrior brought to life in the hit Netflix series “The Last Kingdom.” Actor Alexander Dreymon embodies the character with his physicality, wit, and emotional depth. However, bringing a beloved literary character to the screen is never easy. Admirably, the show’s creators have managed to stay true to the essence of Uhtred’s character while also making necessary changes to appeal to a broader audience. The result is a captivating series that keeps fans coming back for more. However, uhtred’s journey is far from over, and we can’t wait to see where it takes him next.

Themes of Friendship, Honor, and Loyalty in the Last Kingdom

The Last Kingdom is a gripping historical fiction series exploring ninth-century England's tumultuous times. Set against a backdrop of war and political turmoil, the show is defined by its friendship, honor, and loyalty themes. The bond between characters like Uhtred and Brida, who grew up together and fought side-by-side in countless battles, is a testament to the true meaning of friendship. Meanwhile, the concept of honor is explored through the characters’ unwavering dedication to their beliefs and values, even in the face of overwhelming odds. And, of course, loyalty is ever-present in the show, as characters fight for their respective kingdoms and the people they care about. All in all, The Last Kingdom is a vivid portrayal of these timeless themes that are still relevant today.

Recommended Reading for Fans of Historical Fiction

For those who love immersing themselves in the past through the pages of a book, historical fiction is the perfect genre. From the court intrigue of Tudor England to the sweeping epics of ancient Rome, historical fiction has something to offer for every history buff. Suppose you’re looking for your next great read. Some standout titles include “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah, which tells the story of two sisters in occupied France during World War II, and “The Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett, which follows the construction of a cathedral in medieval England. Another recommended book is “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett, which transports readers to the segregated South of the 1960s through the voices of three very different women. Whatever your historical interests, these books will surely transport you to another time and place.

Final Thoughts on The Last Kingdom

As the final season of The Last Kingdom draws to a close, fans are left with mixed emotions. The show has taken us on a thrilling journey through the adventures of Uhtred of Bebbanburg and the battles for England’s supremacy. With its captivating storylines, impressive production, and talented cast, The Last Kingdom has genuinely been a masterpiece in historical drama. While it’s sad to say goodbye to this epic tale, we are satisfied knowing that our beloved characters have received the closure they deserve. The final season was a fitting end to this incredible saga, and we hope to see more of this caliber in the future. Thank you, The Last Kingdom, for the unforgettable journey we have been taking on.

Conclusion

Overall, The Last Kingdom series is a remarkable collection of medieval fiction with catchy writing and well-developed characters. Fans of the book series will appreciate Uhtred’s journey as he learns to balance his loyalty between two warring countries while staying true to himself. It is an enjoyable read and a compelling lesson on friendship, honor, and dedication. Whether you’re a historical fiction fan or looking for inspiration for your own life, The Last Kingdom should definitely be at the top of your recommended reading list. Even after you finish Uhtred’s epic tale and make it through the last page, this series will leave its mark on your heart, so you’ll want to relive it repeatedly.

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Tevin Daniels
The Imagination Times

Editor for The Imagination Times - The Rise of Victor Coming Soon