As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Home / Series / The Bretland Trilogy

Series

The Bretland Trilogy

The Bretland Trilogy follows the dynasty of Rhodri Mawr as the kingdoms of early medieval Wales resist Viking raids, Mercian pressure and the expanding influence of Wessex. Beginning with young warriors drawn into Rhodri’s defence of Gwynedd, it continues through Anarawd’s reign and concludes with Hywel Dda’s consolidation of power in southern Wales.

The novels combine military adventure with dynastic politics, lawmaking and the problem of Welsh unity. Battles, coastal defence, marriage alliances and pilgrimage reveal how Rhodri’s descendants attempted to preserve independent kingdoms while creating institutions and loyalties capable of surviving stronger neighbours.

Reading order

Books in this series (3 books)

Rhodri’s Furies cover

#1 – Rhodri’s Furies

John Broughton

Gwynedd, ninth century. Alun ap Drystan grows up admiring his grandfather Iolyn, a veteran who fears that Viking raids and Saxon pressure will overwhelm the Welsh kingdoms. A reclusive seer tells Alun to find a ‘Battle Prince’ with whom he will help save Gwynedd, and he…

Avenging Rhodri cover

#2 – Avenging Rhodri

John Broughton

Wales, late ninth century. Rhodri Mawr has been killed in battle, leaving his sons to defend a divided inheritance against Mercia, Wessex and renewed Viking attack. Anarawd of Gwynedd must establish his authority while preserving the wider sense of common purpose that his father created among…

Hywel the Good cover

#3 – Hywel the Good

John Broughton

Wales, early tenth century. Hywel of Seisyllwg marries Elen, heiress of Dyfed, in a union that joins affection with dynastic opportunity. As he gains authority in southern Wales, he develops a reputation for measured judgement and attempts to strengthen his realm through alliances, administration and the…