The Burning Land (Bernard Cornwell, 2009)

Another historical novel by Cornwell (#4 for me) - apparently he has recently written several novels set in the 9th century in what will become England. Reviewers indicate that this story is based on a number of somewhat well documented historical episodes.

Read a favorable review in WSJ so tried this. More of a page-turner, but Cornwell's research and story-telling are very strong. He can make you imagine what this might have felt like. Details about battles, politics, etc. Very enjoyable to read (on the stairmaster).

King Alfred dreams of uniting Angle-land as a Christian kingdom; but relies on Uhtred (pagan protagonist) for military success.

They are dealing with several Danish invasions. Alfred's son (to be King Edward) is being groomed. There is an angry Danish woman named Skade. Uhtred is loyal to Alfred's daughter.

Stonehenge (Bernard Cornwell, 2001)

Summary below. I actually enjoyed this one quite a bit even though it's not in my normal reading zones. It did drive imagination as to what might have been going on with Stonehenge.

Another Cornwell novel, also well researched (as far as I know), also via audio book while commuting.

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"He imaginatively unlocks the mystery of Stonehenge's creation in 2000 B.C., at the beginning of Britain's Bronze Age. Lengar, the eldest, murders his own father to become the chief of his tribe. Camaban, a sorcerer ruthlessly determined to have a massive stone temple. The youngest, Saban, will ultimately construct the temple, but not until he has endured torture, slavery and betrayal. The story covers nearly 20 years as the brothers and the people of Ratharryn struggle to survive as a tribe. It is Camaban's idea to build Stonehenge as a temple to create balance between the moon god and the sun god, to eliminate winter and force a change in the circle of life. Cornwell's detailed descriptions of how Stonehenge was constructed utilizing primitive engineering are the real strength of this book."

Sharpe's Seige (Bernard Cornwell, 1987)

Another Cornwell book in which Sharpe is the hero (compare this). Also listened to this while commuting.

Convoluted plot line set in Napoleonic wars (1814) - Sharpe is working with the regular British army to launch a diversionary action near Bordeaux; American forces are involved; the leader of the British regular army is incompetent; they take a fortress but then have difficulty holding it.

Sharpe's Trafalgar (Bernard Cornwell, 2000)

"Read" this via audio book format while commuting.

The author has a long list of books featuring "Sharpe."

In this one, he is returning to England from India in 1805; lovely lady on board ship; captured by French; ends up linked with Nelson at Trafalgar while dealing with French intriguers.

Cornwell always has good detail in these historical novels. "Line ahead," for example.