Son of the Morning

December 14, 2015
Fans of alternate history leavened with wry humor will enjoy this fast-moving epic from the author of the Wolfsangel series. Alder imagines the 14th-century conflict between England and France with a supernatural dimension, as each country’s rulers have the power to summon angels or demons to their cause. The action begins in 1337, with the opening salvos of what will become known as the Hundred Years’ War, as England’s King Edward contests France’s King Philip’s claim to Aquitaine. The English fear that the angels allied with Philip may guarantee a French victory, and to counter those spiritual forces, they seek out help from hell, using a key passed down as a family heirloom to Bardi, a banker. Alder effectively employs a large cast, including historical figures (Isabella of France, Edward’s mother) as well as his own inventions (such as Bardi), while making it easy for the reader to keep track of who’s who. The book follows the conflict between the British and the French through 1346, leaving the door open for a sequel.

February 15, 2016

The Hundred Years' War (1337-1453) was a series of conflicts between England and France for the control of the French kingdom. Many novels have been written about this, but Alder (a pseudonym for Mark Barrowcliffe, author of Lucky Dog) has added a supernatural twist. Edward III has overspent and can little afford to send massive numbers of troops into the battlefield. Having used up much of his support from longtime allies, the English king is in grave danger of losing his French holdings. Philip of France has more men to send into the conflict, but the angels refuse to fight for his side. Both kings enlist the help of priests and holy relics to persuade the angels to battle on their behalf. The infusion of angels, demons, and devils into a novel of medieval history is so realistic one wonders why it hasn't been done before. A massive cast of characters, both fictional and historical, add to the rich complexity. Since the story ends before the war concludes, one hopes a sequel will be forthcoming. VERDICT This dramatic retelling of the events of the Hundred Years' War will find an audience with fans of historical and fantastical fiction.--Jane Henriksen Baird, Anchorage P.L., AK

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