Lord Edward's Archer: A fast-paced, action-packed historical fiction novel (Lord Edward's Archer series Book 1)

The “English Archer” genre is well developed and an exciting historical period to read about. I previously enjoyed “Agincourt” by Bernard Cornwall, and the “Archer” series by the appropriately named author, Martin Archer. This novel is in the same vein, and very enjoyable. This novel is populated by well rounded characters, who capture your imagination and greatly facilitate willing suspension of disbelief. You notice the skillful manner in which the characters remain true to their own nature. Historically, there are no glaring anachronisms, the bane of the period novel. To my knowledge, the descriptions of archery are accurate, and consistent with other period novels. What then lifts this novel above the others of the genre? I feel the main attraction is the period of history used as the setting of the adventure. I have read no others used the period before the ascension of Edward I to the throne of England. Most “archer” novels are set a century or so earlier, or out of the country on Crusade. I found the story of this civil war to be quite interesting. The only contrary thing about this novel is that every time I read the name Edward Longshanks, I had to see the image of a young Patrick McGoohan before my mind’s eye. I enjoyed this novel and am about to begin the next one: “King in Waiting”. Don’t miss this one!

The book is a simply told tale, written as a retelling. The book is exclusively in first person past tense, with little actual narrative commentary. The structure is very simple - short, concise sentences with little description - and that hinders forming a mental image of the story, but interestingly doesn't break immersion. Almost all of the writing is "did this", "that happened" "said, 'This'", with few adjectives and fewer adverbs. While that may be indicative of poor writing, I think it indicates the kind of mind that is telling the story; the protagonist, Gruffyd son of Gerald ap Llywelyn has a mind like an arrow - short, accurate, and purposeful. As others have said, the protagonist is something of a medieval Rambo. While he absolutely does not engage in witty one-liners, he does seem extremely, almost ridiculously, overpowered. What prevented me from literally putting this down was that this ridiculous degree of martial power (but not necessarily prowess) is applied to every single other archer in the story - justified because this is the English longbow at its prime. If all of Hosker's books are written in the same style, with similar protagonists, then I would not recommend reading his books. I haven't read any others written by him, though, so I can't make that judgement. This book on its own is an interesting, well-researched, and worthwhile read.

Hosker's books are so hard to put down, I'm behind on my game playing! I like a strong hero who earns respect against all odds by his ingenuity and determination. He is also a leader who plays fair with his followers. Highly recommend these books.

A crisp, clean prose and some interesting character development around an interesting bit of history. Nicely done. A clean, nice and straightforward tale without profanity and coarse sexual encounters make this an enjoyable read. This is one of the few Griff Hosker books that I can read as I refuse to read a book where the author's name on the cover is larger than the title of the book. Unfortunately, most of his books are that way. This one had a nice cover and the ego of the author was held in check. Thank you. Don't let your publisher talk you into bad decisions in cover design.

I loved the historical points and especially the references to the disciplines an archer followed to hone his craft. I wish there was more of it, but I must settle on the societal attitudes the "common" man had to endure from those ranked "better." History is always so enjoyable when told as a likeable story with great characters. Holder does a wonderful job making even the fictional as well as the historical characters come to life. A few descriptions of battle are a bit detailed but I would rate this as a clean, PG13 rating and keep it on my kindle to mull over again. Enjoy!

A good story, but in need of serious editing. Sentences were short and choppy making the read one of constant interruptions. The story was good characters somewhat well developed in the history solid.

This is another first novel for me, this time of Mr Hosker. I was a History major and have enjoyed many eras of World History. However, the eras I have always drifted towards, were the archers of Native America, Japan and England. As a matter of fact I will read any story where men use the long bow. Having just finished the A W Hart series of six novels of "Concho Ten Wolves", I was looking for a new series and that is when I came across the varied historical novels of Mr Hosker. Needless to say, I started with " Prince Edward's Archers" . The research is outstanding, the storyline is well thought out, the action and battle scenes are realistic and tense, the characters are well fleshed out, and the descriptions of the time period are excellent (you can smell the dank misty air of the early morning attacks and feel the burn of over used muscles in a long battle, just to reference a few). There are just so many reasons why anyone who likes pre-gunpowder English History would really find this novel so extraordinary. Try it, you will not be disappointed. I am hooked and have bought the entire series

A straight narration. Leaves nothing for surprise. You can see a expected flow of study without any twists. After Initial twist rest everything is expected.

Good, well-written story. I admit I am a history tragic and I enjoy well-composed historical fiction. Good research and characters. I look forward to reading more of this story.

I have read and enjoyed over 50 of Griff Hosker’s books and this book is no exception. Simply just love the ability to bring history to life with a wonderful story.

A must for anyone who enjoys the history of medieval England. Gerald War Bow is a model example of honour and loyalty particularly to his archers

I have had this book for 3 days and almost read it through. I find it very good story telling. Delivery was fast.