A WORTHY NEW ENTRY TO ARTHURIAN LORE Jeffrey Bampos

I have had the pleasure of reading an advance copy of this book by Chris Gidlow. The reader is in good hands from the start as Gidlow is the author of "The Reign of Arthur", a non-fiction exploration of the legendary king's historical reality. I have read that book, and Gidlow, a member of the Oxford Arthurian Society, provides intriguing theories on the subject.
In his first novel, "Arthur the Soldier", the author creates an immersive world of post-Roman Britain, with all of its dark-age drama. It is written in a truly bardic style, and the characters and setting are very Celtic. In the back of the book, there is a list of characters and places. I suggest the reader tackle this first to understand this world better.
Here we meet not only Arthur, always referred to as "the Soldier", but his companions, also with their Celtic names and descriptive nicknames. Gidlow's narrator describes these colorful characters delightfully. Hair color, clothing, distinct ornamentation, all of these are included to give a real sense of these boastful, independent folks. The story revolves around Arthur's mission to restore unity and peace to Britain until the Emperor returns to reclaim the land. But first, he must convince the skeptical kings that he is the heir to Uthyr Pendragon. The pace is leisurely, as there are two more books in the series, called "The Ruin of Britain". I encourage Arthurian buffs and fans of heroic literature to read this delightful addition to King Arthur's fascinating world.

Arthur the Soldier by Chris Gidlow is a fascinating read. It covers a period in the life of Arthur that is ripe with legend and adventure. After a successful career as a soldier in the Empire, Arthur begins to find his place in his homeland. He struggles with his role and his place but eventually realizations are made and he pursues his destiny.
Accompanied by boon companions and his stalwart dog, Cabal, Arthur's tale reads at first like a work of Homer. Indeed, I was oft reminded of The Iliad at the beginning of the book. There are epic scenes of battle, both as organized forces as well and single combat. There is love and sensuality. Indeed, one passage of the book borders on erotic fiction. There is also growth and personal.progress for the protagonist as his destiny becomes apparent.
This was a studious work of Arthurian lore, the author is clearly at ease and well-versed in this period of history, the early medieval, as well as the Arthurian Legend.
Dr. Brandon Neff

Set in early medieval period when the Romans were long gone, but their infrastructure such as Hadrian’s Wall and roads remained. Arthur had returned to Britain after fighting in Europe. Alliances change quickly. Many intrigues and betrayals with a strong sense of place. His skills and Roman maps with paces between structure allowed him to plot a campaign against his enemies.

Maps at the beginning of the book and at the end lists of place and character names are appreciated.

Arthur the Soldier is such a cool book. Loved to read this story so much. I recommend everyone to read this book as fast as they can because it's really good and the characters are fantastic.

Arthur the Solidier by Chris Gildow is a unique perspective and retelling of the original story. There were themes in the story that were reatin from the original story and had a great premise and a strong start to the trilogy.

I really enjoyed this use of King Arthur and how this was retold by Chris Gidlow. It had that element that I expected from the world and the idea of what everything was going on. The characters had that feel that I was hoping for and glad this was a strong start to the Ruin of Britain trilogy.