Step into the rugged, shield-clashing world of The Bernicia Chronicles, where 7th-century Britain comes alive with gritty battles, heartfelt loyalty, and one warrior’s epic quest! Penned by Matthew Harffy, this historical fiction series follows Beobrand, a farm boy turned fearsome hero, as he navigates the brutal, vibrant landscape of Anglo-Saxon England. Perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell’s Saxon tales, it’s a thrilling ride through a lesser-known era.
How The Bernicia Chronicles Began
Inspired by a documentary about Northumbria’s Golden Age, Matthew Harffy, a Northumberland native, crafted The Bernicia Chronicles to bring 7th-century Britain to life. His childhood amid the region’s rugged castles and rocky coasts fueled his imagination, while years of research into Anglo-Saxon history shaped this vivid series. Starting with The Serpent Sword in 2015, Harffy’s goal was to weave authentic history with pulse-pounding storytelling.
The Heart of The Bernicia Chronicles
The series kicks off with The Serpent Sword, where young Beobrand seeks vengeance for his brother’s murder in 633 AD, plunging into Northumbria’s war-torn chaos. In The Cross and the Curse (2016), Beobrand, now a celebrated warrior, faces treachery and new enemies as he defends his hard-won land. Blood and Blade (2016) sees him escorting a Wessex princess through danger, unraveling secrets amid Pictish uprisings. Fortress of Fury (2020) pits Beobrand against a Mercian siege at Bebbanburg, testing his leadership and heart.
Harffy’s storytelling shines through gritty battle scenes, rich historical detail, and themes of honor, vengeance, and redemption. The clash between pagan traditions and spreading Christianity adds depth, while Beobrand’s growth from naive youth to complex leader captivates readers. The series’ immersive setting—Northumbria’s windswept moors, fortified strongholds, and shield-wall clashes—makes every page feel like a journey back in time.
Why The Bernicia Chronicles Resonates
The Bernicia Chronicles has carved a niche among historical fiction fans for its raw authenticity and emotional depth. Often compared to Bernard Cornwell’s work, it stands out for tackling the underrepresented 7th century, a time of shifting kingdoms and cultures. Readers praise Harffy’s nuanced characters and relentless pacing, with Beobrand’s struggles resonating as both timeless and distinctly Anglo-Saxon. With 10 books and counting, the series continues to grow its devoted following.
- First Book Published: 2015 (The Serpent Sword)
- Number of Books: 10 (as of 2024, with an 11th announced)
- Setting: 7th-century Northumbria
- Notable Praise: Compared to Bernard Cornwell by readers and critics
Grab The Serpent Sword and dive into The Bernicia Chronicles’ heart-pounding world of warriors, oaths, and Anglo-Saxon adventure!