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Home / Series / The First Kingdom

Series

The First Kingdom

The First Kingdom series is set during the traditional beginning of the Anglo-Saxon settlement of Britain in the fifth century. It follows the exiled Saxon warrior Octa as he becomes entangled with Hengist, Horsa, Vortigern and the struggle between incoming Germanic war bands and Romano-British rulers. The trilogy combines migration, warfare and religious change with a personal search for honour and redemption.

Reading order

Books in this series (3 books)

Woden’s Spear cover

#1 – Woden’s Spear

Donovan Cook

In AD 449, Octa, the son of a Saxon warlord, breaks in his first shield-wall battle and causes the death of his cousin. Disowned and pursued, he leaves Old Saxony carrying the shame of cowardice and the hope of redemption. His flight takes him towards Britain,…

Woden’s Storm cover

#2 – Woden’s Storm

Donovan Cook

In AD 450, Octa cannot return to Saxony despite possessing the spear of Woden and proving himself in battle. He joins Hengist and Horsa as their Jutish forces establish themselves in Britain under an uneasy agreement with the British high king Vortigern. Land, tribute and mutual…

Woden’s Vengeance cover

#3 – Woden’s Vengeance

Donovan Cook

War has begun between the Jutish settlers and the forces of Prince Vortimer, who has imprisoned his father Vortigern and intends to drive the newcomers from Britain. Octa, carrying Woden’s spear, stands within Hengist and Horsa’s army as both sides gather for a decisive campaign. Religious…