The Challenges of a King

The Road to Hastings, Book 1

By: K.M. Ashman

Narrated by: Toby Longworth

The fight for England began long before 1066…

AD 1045. Godwin of Wessex, one of the most powerful earls in the country, prepares for the marriage of his daughter to King Edward of England. The mood is jubilant, his family's relationship with the Crown secured through matrimony. But one man seeks to undermine him at every opportunity.

French-born Bishop of London, Robert of JumiEges, has the ear of the king. As a trusted adviser, his position is one of power and privilege, and he wields it to gain ever-greater influence over the English Crown for his kinsmen in Normandy, at Godwin's expense.

As the bishop's control increases, the king's relationship with the House of Godwin frays until, eventually, it breaks down completely. With civil war looming, Godwin fights to pull England back from the brink. But with the king under Norman influence, it could be too little, too late.

The Challenges of a King is the first book in a thrilling new series from K. M. Ashman exploring the politics, promises and intrigue that led three men to contest the throne in 1066, and to the final successful invasion of England. Perfect for fans of Conn Iggulden and Bernard Cornwell.

©2021 K. M. Ashman (P)2021 W. F. Howes Ltd

Faithful to the history, but lacks emotional connection

High praise for this writer as a technically fluid compose of prose and master of history. Unfortunately, he falls down significantly and making me ever care about the characters.

That — combined with anachronisms in the dialogue that mar an otherwise strong command of the historical period — pushed me over the edge. I just couldn’t finish it.

Edward the Confessor spouting modern slang like “I’ll let you catch up now” ?

No, just no.