Step into the gritty, thrilling world of the Sir John Hawkwood series, where medieval battlefields roar with clashing steel and one man’s journey from humble beginnings to legendary mercenary captain captivates the imagination! Penned by Griff Hosker, this historical fiction saga transports readers to 14th-century Europe, immersing them in the Hundred Years’ War’s chaos. Through the lens of John Hawkwood, a real-life figure who rose from apprentice tailor to a feared condottiero, Hosker weaves a tale of ambition, loyalty, and survival that’s as educational as it is exhilarating.
With vivid prose and meticulous research, the series brings to life a turbulent era of plague, politics, and warfare. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a gripping adventure, Sir John Hawkwood’s saga offers a front-row seat to a world where every decision could mean glory—or death.
How Sir John Hawkwood Began
Griff Hosker, a former teacher turned prolific historical fiction author, stumbled upon Sir John Hawkwood while researching another project. Intrigued by this lesser-known English warrior who became a powerhouse in Italy, Hosker saw the perfect hero for a new series. Launched in 2020, the Sir John Hawkwood series reflects Hosker’s passion for authentic historical detail, drawing from chronicles and his visits to castles across Europe. His goal? To breathe life into Hawkwood’s story, blending fact with fiction to craft a saga that’s both immersive and accessible.
The Heart of Sir John Hawkwood
The series kicks off with Crécy: The Age of the Archer (2020), where young John Hawkwood abandons his tailor’s apprenticeship in 1335 England to join King Edward III’s army. His knack for archery and quick thinking propel him through battles like Crécy, setting the stage for his rise. In Man at Arms: The Battle of Poitiers (2020), Hawkwood navigates the Black Death’s devastation while evolving into a man-at-arms, leading his men against pirates and French forces. The White Company (2021) sees him commanding a mercenary band in Italy, grappling with betrayal and ambition. By Leader of Men (2022), Hawkwood is a seasoned condottiero, balancing loyalty and profit in Italy’s cutthroat political landscape.
Themes of honor, survival, and moral ambiguity run deep. Hosker doesn’t shy away from Hawkwood’s flaws—his ruthless pursuit of wealth and willingness to sack villages make him a complex, period-authentic protagonist. The series’ vivid battle scenes, from longbow volleys to cavalry charges, immerse readers in medieval warfare, while its exploration of loyalty—whether to king, comrades, or coin—adds emotional heft. Set against the Hundred Years’ War and Italy’s fractious city-states, the saga captures a world where power shifts like sand.
Why Sir John Hawkwood Resonates
The Sir John Hawkwood series has carved a niche among historical fiction fans for its gritty realism and focus on an unsung historical figure. Readers praise Hosker’s ability to blend tactical detail with character-driven storytelling, making battles feel visceral and personal. While some critique Hawkwood’s polished heroism, the series’ immersive quality and fast-paced plots keep fans hooked, with many binge-reading the books for their vivid portrayal of 14th-century life. Its appeal lies in its balance of education and entertainment, offering a window into a chaotic era through a larger-than-life yet flawed hero.
For fans of Bernard Cornwell or Conn Iggulden, the series is a hidden gem that elevates a forgotten warrior into a legend. Its growing fanbase, evident in enthusiastic Goodreads reviews, underscores its potential to inspire more tales of medieval mercenaries.
- About Sir John Hawkwood
- Publication Years: 2020–2023
- Number of Books: At least 5, with the series completed in 2023
- Setting: 14th-century Europe, primarily England, France, and Italy
- Author: Griff Hosker, a UK-based historical fiction expert
Ready to march into the 14th century? Grab Crécy: The Age of the Archer and dive into Sir John Hawkwood’s epic world of war, betrayal, and glory!