Bernard Cornwell Series Order: Your Ultimate Guide to the Phenomenal Historical Fiction

With millions of copies sold worldwide, Bernard Cornwell's historical fiction series have captivated readers and inspired countless adaptations for film and television. Here's your essential guide to the chronological order of his iconic works:

1. The Saxon Stories (9 Books)

• The Last Kingdom
• The Pale Horseman
• The Lords of the North
• Sword Song
• The Burning Land
• Death of Kings
• The Pagan Lord
• The Empty Throne
• Warriors of the Storm

2. The Warlord Chronicles (4 Books)

• The Winter King
• The Enemy of God
• Excalibur
• The Hollow Crown

3. The Grail Quest (3 Books)

• Harlequin
• Vagabond
• Heretic

4. The Sharpe Series (15 Books)

• Sharpe's Rifles
• Sharpe's Eagle
• Sharpe's Sword
• Sharpe's Honour
• Sharpe's Regiment
• Sharpe's Company
• Sharpe's Enemy
• Sharpe's Gold
• Sharpe's Triumph
• Sharpe's Fortress
• Sharpe's Battle
• Sharpe's Siege
• Sharpe's Mission
• Sharpe's Fury
• Sharpe's Waterloo

5. The Starbuck Chronicles (2 Books)

• The Starbuck
• Gilead

6. The Azincourt Series (3 Books)

• Agincourt
• Crécy
• Waterloo

7. The Saxon Tales (3 Books)

• The Archer's Tale
• The Heretic's Tale
• The Pagan King

8. The War of the Roses Series (2 Books)

• The Red Queen
• The White Queen

9. The Arthur Series (2 Books)

• The Warlord
• The Demon Lord

10. Other Standalone Novels

• The Last Stand
• The Battle of Bouvines
• The Fort
• 1349
• The Summer King

Choosing the Right Series for You

With such a vast catalog, it can be challenging to know where to start. Here are some tips:

• The Saxon Stories: Dive into the tumultuous world of 9th-century England, with thrilling battles, political intrigue, and the birth of a nation.
• The Warlord Chronicles: Journey into the shadowy world of Arthurian legend, where myth and history collide.
• The Sharpe Series: Witness the epic adventures of Richard Sharpe, a legendary rifleman in the Napoleonic Wars.
• The Grail Quest: Embark on a spiritual pilgrimage through medieval Europe, searching for the legendary Holy Grail.
• The Starbuck Chronicles: Explore the rugged frontier of 18th-century America, with a captivating blend of action and adventure.

Pain Points Addressed by Bernard Cornwell's Works

Cornwell's historical fiction masterfully addresses pain points that resonate with readers today:

• The horrors of war: His vivid depictions of battle show the devastating impact of conflict on individuals and society.
• The fragility of power: Cornwell explores the corrupting influence of power and the dangers of tyranny.
• The search for identity: His characters struggle with their place in the world and the complexities of human nature.

Motivations for Reading Bernard Cornwell

• Escape: Immerse yourself in gripping historical narratives that transport you to different times and cultures.
• Education: Gain valuable insights into historical events, cultures, and the human condition.
• Entertainment: Experience the thrill of adventure, romance, and epic battles from the comfort of your own home.

Tips and Tricks for Reading Bernard Cornwell

• Start with the beginning: For a chronological approach, start with the first book in each series.
• Read in order: Follow the chronological order to fully appreciate the character development and historical context.
• Take your time: These books are dense and detailed, so allow yourself time to savor the richness of the storytelling.
• Explore beyond the series: Don't limit yourself to the main series; check out Cornwell's standalone novels and short stories for further depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping books: Avoid skipping books within a series, as they often contain vital information for later events.
• Rushing through: Take your time reading; rushing will hinder your enjoyment and understanding.
• Expecting historical accuracy: While Cornwell strives for authenticity, his works are historical fiction, so expect some creative liberties.
• Reading out of order: Chronological order is crucial for maximum enjoyment and comprehension.

Table 1: Bernard Cornwell Series Chronology

Table 2: Recommended Starting Points

Table 3: Historical Contexts Explored

Table 4: Common Themes