CatherineJ's Book Journey

This is the likely most realistic, and best researched King Arthur historical fiction book I’ve ever read. And I’ve read a few. It focuses on the king/leader/warrior known as Artos the Bear. He was probably the real King Arthur. No Lancelot. No knights in shining armour. No Merlin. No magic. Or at least, no real magic (the belief in magic was strong then). No pretty myths at all. Instead we have incest, war, deprivation, betrayal, adultery, courage and heartache, all set in fifth century Britain.

Sutcliff was known as a YA historical fiction writer whose stories focused primarily on the fall of Rome. She retold The Odyssey and The Iliad, as well. All her stories were well researched. I was recommended her work for my daughter in middle school. This was Sutcliff’s only adult book.

The Sword at Sunset is not an easy read with its gritty, harsh realism. Yet it is also vivid and poetic. I think it is the best Arthur retelling there is.