945 and the kingdoms of Britain are not settled. In Scotland Constantin has been deposed and lives his life in a monastery, plotting revenge on Mael Cuilum, aided by his son Ildulb. The king of Wales is avoiding getting drawn in to any plots whilst the king of Strathclyde looks to cement his power. Meanwhile the Norse relatives of Ivarr the Boneless are coveting Yorvik but the biggest threat could be from Edmund, king of the English.
This is a terrific book. The source material is not very detailed but Porter has created convincing fiction from this. I loved the style of writing a narrative from the perspective of each player, it's complicated but stops the reader from becoming too invested in any one character.

Well, well, well.

We've reached the final book in the riveting Brunanburh series, and I was pleased to find that the political intrigues and machinations haven't stopped.

As a reminder, the books in this series are told from a range of first-person points-of-view. In Kings of Conflict, we have – in addition to some minor characters – the English King Edmund; King Constantin of the Scots (later Lord Constantin, following his enforced removal by Mael Coluim); King Mael Coluim of the Scots; Ildulb, Constantin's son, and Mael Coluim's heir to the throne; Anlaf and Bakari, the Norse kings of Jorvik (York); and other major and minor players in this thrilling 10th-century game of thrones on the British Isles.

Edmund is keen to expand his kingdom. He is young and ambitious, coveting the small kingdoms of Jorvik and Strathclyde, and ultimately – the kingdom of the Scots. The Norse remain a thorn in his side which he wants to remove, once and for all. He regards himself as rightful lord of the whole isle, not just the southern parts. The large manpower he has amassed across the ancient English kingdoms gives him a great advantage over the other, much lesser populated, kingdoms. It was ever thus...

Constantin, now old in years, remains a plotter, even following the usurpation by his heir, Mael Coluim. The Scots line of succession alternated between two families, and in Kings of Conflict, we continue to see the squabbles between them as each respects the ancient rules, but still covets the crown for themselves.

But it is the squabbles in Jorvik that ultimately present Edmund with his best chance. With Anlaf and Bakari – descendants of Ivarr the Boneless – both vying for the strategic throne, usurping one another, Edmund just has to sit back. When Ildulb, with Constantin's tacit approval, gets involved, it turns even uglier.

But then we have another twist in the already exciting plot: a couple of scheming monks and a fearsome Norse warrior with ambitions of his own. Will Edmund be able to see them off? Or will the Norse remain firmly in place, ridiculing him?

Who will win in this intriguing game of chess? Read the book to find out!

Conflict of Kings continues to tell us of the struggles for power in 10th-century Britain. The isle is not big enough for so many determined and ambitious players, and as they remain firmly at each others' throats, there can only be one winner.

As with the previous three books, we discover events and news from different angles, which increases the intensity of the story. The ambitions of each man – and of the occasional lady – are laid bare in MJ Porter's immersive style of storytelling. We see kings lose power, and their replacements struggle. The novel shows us one thing in particular: that ambition may lead you to your goal, but once there, you have to fight to stay put, and take actions you never anticipated.

Mael Coluim of the Scots is such a character. Shifty, keen on pushing Constantin off the throne, he struggles with the political machinations hitting him from all sides. Actions and decisions have consequences, and his submission to Edmund is one that has repercussions to this day (although, of course, he wasn't the first).

We find little change in Wales in those days, as Hywel is busy working on his renowned laws, keeping on Edmund's good side. But even he knows his peace is only temporary.

Edmund is arrogant and determined to bring the rest of the isle under his direct control, and the author reveals his ambitions brilliantly through his thoughts and actions. He has wise counsellors, and together, they react when needed. His huge force gives him the edge over the other kings, and he knows it. A petulant streak is just enough to show off his arrogance perfectly.

But I enjoyed the most the parts with the Norse kings, Bakari and Anlaf. Not completely historically accurate (as the author explains in the Author's Note at the end), I really enjoyed their characterisation: both were chancers, with the Norse attitude of taking what you want, whichever way you want it, an overrated self-belief, and a really dry sense of humour. Those two men were different from the others not only in looks and actions, but also in outlook. It was great fun to read about them.

Told from the characters' point-of-view in first person, we get a real sense at the innermost thoughts of all the major players. We see their ambitions, but also their fears and concerns. We see the reasons for their actions, and the occasional realisation that those at times weren't the best decisions. And we see their weaknesses, their distrust of others, and the constant threat to your life and position. This really helps immerse yourself into 10th-century politics. There was no certainty in anything, and allegiances changed with the wind.

I also enjoyed the wry sense of humour MJ Porter infused into the narrative, and I had a few laugh-out-loud moments, which were brilliant.

Kings of Conflict is a worthy conclusion of the brilliant Brunanburh series, which helps us understand the background to the wars between the kingdoms. The series takes us back to the early days, when England emerged from the smaller kingdoms, to become a political and military powerhouse; and when Scotland needed to do the same, but was still divided, as Strathclyde was separate. The origins of the suzerainty of the English king over all the other domains on the British Isles lead back to those early days, when Scots kings had no choice but to comply with the English kings' wishes (though they clearly never meant to keep that side of the agreement).

It's also an era where the influence of the Norse appears to wane, but even then, they weren't quite finished yet. If Edmund had known there'd be a Danish king of England a century later, I'm sure he'd have been spinning in his grave...

Kings of Conflict is a riveting, fast-paced medieval adventure that draws this series to a close perfectly, and ends with a perfidious act that shocked the isle. A brilliant finish to an utterly compelling series of political intrigues. Check it out!

Apprehensive was the word starting this next instalment in The Brunanburh Series… not because I’ve not enjoyed the series immensely so far.. no I’m just gutted this is the last in the series.. I know there’s only a finite number of pages that could be written but MJ Porter has really made these characters come to life and I just wish we could have more..

Edmund returns home after coming to an accord with Anlaf Sihtricson but if we’ve learnt anything about the period and the King’s in play at the time we all know peace won’t last.

For each power In play it’s a chess game, trying to second guess what the other will do, wondering which way they should align themselves… or do they wait it out?

Something I really enjoyed was that the narrative switched between the characters effortlessly. I can’t imagine the time taken by the author to put everything in order but the flow was perfect and the change in focus so suitable you can’t help but be absorbed into the tale.

The story is rich in detail, depicting the time.. the connections..the infighting and plotting..it’s all there.

For me the star is, and always has been Constantin, now former King ot the Scots. Kings of Conflict solidifies his shrewdness and his place in history… I won’t spoil it but wow.. what a man he must have been.

What really shines through is the research and time the author has clearly put into the tale, and it’s so expertly woven that it brings history to life.. credit where credits due.. it’s a talent to make a subject exciting and while I know with historic fiction there’s some leeway with events and characters etc but they are based around known facts.. and to use those facts.. and to be able to weave such a wonderful engrossing series..wow.. it’s a masterclass in historical fiction writing and further cements MJ Porter’s as one of, if not thee best, historical fiction writer out there!

Throughout the final instalment the tension mounts and the pace meant it perfectly mirrored the tension rising within myself as events played out.. the excitement growing with each page turn.

To create such a wonderful series, with such a plethora of characters, and egos.. utterly astounding it’s so perfect.

Earth shaking 5*

🛡 Book Review: "Kings of Conflict" by MJ Porter
🛡Genre: Historical Fiction / Adventure
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

⚔ Blurb Insight:
Step into the world of AD 942, where the echoes of clashing swords and the tension of political intrigue are palpable in the air. In Kings of Conflict, MJ Porter delivers a gripping conclusion to The Brunanburh Series, a historical saga that vividly brings to life the fierce battles and relentless struggles for power in early medieval England.

⚔ Why You'll Love It:
🛡 Epic Historical Drama: MJ Porter masterfully captures the raw intensity of this period, weaving a tale that is as much about personal valor as it is about the broader sweep of history. The stakes are high, and the tension is relentless.
⚔ Rich Characterization: Edmund, portrayed with all his flaws and strengths, stands at the center of this epic. His determination to restore England’s glory and his struggle against both external enemies and internal divisions make him a compelling and relatable figure.
🏰 Historical Accuracy: Fans of historical fiction will appreciate the meticulous research that underpins every chapter. The vivid descriptions of battles, the intricacies of medieval politics, and the portrayal of 10th-century life immerse you in the era.
🗡 Action-Packed Narrative: From the first page to the last, Kings of Conflict is a thrilling ride. The battles are fierce, the alliances fragile, and the betrayals devastating. It's a page-turner that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

🎯 Perfect For:
✨Lovers of historical fiction with a focus on medieval warfare and politics.
✨Readers who enjoy character-driven stories set against the backdrop of real historical events.
✨Fans of Bernard Cornwell, Conn Iggulden, and other masters of historical epics.

Kings of Conflict is a fitting and exhilarating conclusion to MJ Porter’s series. It's a tale of courage, strategy, and the unyielding fight for a nation’s destiny. Whether you’re a history buff or a lover of epic tales of war and leadership, this book will leave you breathless. Thanks to @rachelsrandomresources and @netgalley for the #ARC #BlogTour

#KingsOfConflict #MJPorter #BrunanburhSeries #BookReview #HistoricalFiction #MedievalHistory #ReadersOfInstagram #IGReads #InstaBooks #Bookstagram #Bookstagrammer #BookstagramCommunity #Netgalley

I'm both excited and sad to have finished the Brunanburh Series! This final book is packed with everything I've loved about the series: political intrigue, shifting alliances, and fascinating historical detail. A perfect wrap-up to the series. If you love historical fiction, don't miss this one about the English Kings.

Porter's storytelling is top-notch. The story flows effortlessly between characters, and the research really shines through. It's like stepping back in time!

Definitely recommended to all history buffs.
My thanks,and apologies for the late review, to Netgalley for sharing an advance copy for my unbiased rev6

Kings Of Conflict is the last installment in MJ Porter‘s latest series. While Edmund is celebrating his win Constantine‘s son Ildulb, is chafing at the bit having to serve his cousin Meal Colium who forced the legendary King to abdicate. While Constantine prays at Saint Andrews his son is making other plans. King Edmund wants to celebrate by gaining all the lands he lost and bringing peace to England the same way his brother did. They say all‘s fair in love and war and in this real life game of chess kings are placed and replaced and in the end only one can be the victor. There’s so much I want to put in this book about the strange bedfellows that war can bring just like politics, but I don’t want to give anything away just know MJ Porter has really outdone herself with this well researched awesomely told historical fiction tale. I loved this whole Siri‘s from the battle scenes to the intrigue and even the infighting this is definitely a book I recommend to anyone who loves medieval warrior stories you will definitely enjoy this one oh I certainly did!#NetGalley, #BoldwoodBooks,#MJ Porter, #kings of conflict,

I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

This is the fourth and final instalment in the Brunanburh series. I read a lot of historical fiction, but I haven't read many books that were set during this period, so I found this interesting and exciting in a historical context.

I haven't read any of the previous books, and it seemed a little bit of a shame to find that I was jumping in at the end. I did find this to be very well-written though. I liked the author's style of writing, as the story flowed easily. The narrative switched between several characters, but in each case, I was able to connect with the narrative. I also found the story to be action-packed, with plenty of momentum.

Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.

M.J. Porter gives it her all in the final, thrilling installment of her Brunanburh Series. As always, the action and battle scenes are a real highlight, and the effort Porter has put in researching always shines through.
The ending is a very satisfying conclusion to the overall series. However, the middle section of this book did drag slightly, feeling like it took forever to get to the climax.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC. All opinions are my own.

The ultimate tale of Mediaeval period England and it's told so effortlessly and with much knowledge that it instantly draws you in. I personally think there were too many Kings and not enough Queens (haha). I enjoyed the various battles and travelling on ship was a different but exciting variety in the story. The charterization of all involved was epic and the conclusion was the ultimately the best possible.

This was a great finish to the series. Mj jams in the action, but also, this one ties up the character arcs.

As always MJ writes fantastic battle scenes and that was the highlight of the book for me.

Another wonderful series from the author