Ashes of Rebellion is the fourth installment in Michael Jecks’ Vintaine series, arriving almost as an afterthought — the first book was published in 2014 and the most recent one before this in 2016. Yet, precisely because of that, it feels as though it has been given special care. The story picks up seamlessly a few years after the events of Blood of the Innocents, while at the same time cross-pollinating and tying in with Jecks’ much-loved Templar series.
For readers new to the Vintaine saga: the books follow a band of English archers in medieval France. In this installment, their familiar bread-and-butter soldiering is woven into a political game between kings and would-be kings, as well as those whose only ambition is to make a fortune. The plot is seasoned with revenge and superstition — a hearty dish indeed. If tales of medieval warfare and intrigue are your thing, this is a feast you’ll enjoy.
If I have one complaint, it’s about the gore. The violence is depicted in such graphic detail that producers of Game of Thrones and the like would surely be salivating to throw money at Mr. Jecks. Perhaps this sort of blood-soaked content has been somewhat overdone on streaming platforms, but if that’s your taste, fear not: Ashes of Rebellion delivers plenty. For me and my poor stomach, however, it was at times a little too much. There’s something about reading how a blade severs an artery and a windpipe — just to pick one example — that makes my insides want to turn themselves inside out.
That said, this is also proof of Jecks’ command of historical detail. The depth of research behind his novels is remarkable, and the sense of place and period is palpable. You truly feel transported to the 14th century — which is not always comfortable. More than once I found myself almost pinching my arm to remind myself that I wasn’t actually on a battlefield, dodging arrows and blades hurled from the page.
All in all, Ashes of Rebellion is best enjoyed from the safety of your favorite chair, ideally with a goblet of wine or a jug of ale within reach. And enjoy it you shall — though you might want to keep a strong stomach, too.
Lämna ett svar