The Broken Realm (The Saga of Roland Inness Book 3)

I have the two previous books (Longbow and Warbow) to this series as well and enjoyed them very much. They build the story gradually and provide excellent lead-in to this one, which is the best so far. When I started this series I thought that Roland Inness was going to be yet another alias for Robin Hood himself and was pleasantly surprised to find that he is not. While the origin of Roland is basically the same as that of Robin, the story diverges almost immediately and a new and exciting adventure begins. Robin Hood does play a part in the story, as does Friar Tuck in the guise of a priest of the Knights Templar, but the tale is firmly centered on Roland and his own friends. The author's writing is very capable and well-paced and the history is well-grounded. The author makes clear where he has altered any history to fit the story itself. The women are every bit as formidable as the men and bring their own unique talents to bear on the tumultuous political climate that clouded the Third Crusade. Violence is very much a part of such a historical period but Mr. Grant does not dwell on it. If it drives the story, it's there. These books appear to be suitable for middle grade readers and provide a rich introduction to the time of the Crusades and Richard the Lionheart, England's great warrior king.

I just finished reading "The Broken Realm." No surprise after reading "Longbow" and "Warbow" that "The Broken Realm" would be a page turner. It proved to be harder to put down than I thought. I loved the plot and the characters. It is classed as a young adult novel, but I'm 69 and was riveted by it from page to page until, sadly, it was over. Ready for Book 4. Can't wait to see what awaits our young Danish hero.

The action continues and the story remains interesting as Roland, Millie and co try to get the Earl of Ranulf reinstated as rightful lord of Chester. There's good character development (although there were times I didn't find Millie's character likeable--too arrogant) The love story between Roland and Millie develops well without turning sappy. (There's a bit more language in this one than earlier ones but not quite enough to be off putting as so many books are. But I hope it doesn't get worse than this.) The story kept me interested from beginning to end so it gets four stars.

Best book yet! Great story, fantastic action sequences.One thing I love about this series is the deep humanity and emotions of the characters. Sometimes when reading history or historical fiction it can be easy to assume that previous generations were cold and unfeeling. Life was so harsh and many books portray historical people as one-dimensional.But of course that isn't the truth. Human beings have had beating hearts, dreams, and felt emotion from Creation on.I really love the characters of this series deeply. Roland, Declan, Millicent, Catherine, Roger. They feel authentic in their portrayal and I admire and enjoy them.Heavier language than the previous two books, just as a heads up for younger readers.I loved The Broken Realm and I cannot wait for Grant's final installment of the Roland Inness Saga.

I just finished this series and was very happy with it. The story was good, with enough detail vs. action. The battle scenes were well described without boring me to tears by the time they were done. The characters were likable and flawed at the same time. The dialogue was good. And important to me, the writer managed to tell a great tale without feeling the need to succumb to frequent vulgarity...especially with word usages that were probably not even known it that time period. And there was great romance without it needing to sink into overdone sexual imagery; two things that made me put down Steven McKay after only a couple of chapters. I liked this series and am looking forward to more from Wayne Grant in the future.

I really enjoyed this series. Then again, I enjoy historical novels, especially those from this time frame. The description of the world at that time, the nature of warfare and the personal issues involved with not only survival but what it took to make your way in the world, was well handled. I especially liked the insights into the world of the archer - what it took and how much of an impact it could have. While not always historically on the mark (connections to Robin Hood, Richard the Lionheart, etc.), it does give a glimpse of the time-frame pretty well and unless you are a real historian it will be quite satisfying. Those connections, by the way, were very well handled in terms of the story line and helped move the plot forward. I only wish there were more books in the series.

Fun story, solid characters that I've grown fond of over three episodes, and a quick pace make this a light, engaging read. Some slightly more mature themes and content this time around, but nothing overtly dark or gratuitously violent. I'd originally got book one for my 9 year old son, but I found myself reading and getting hooked before he did. In fact, he never caught on, but I continued into books 2 and 3.The historic context is well grounded, and necessary liberties to move the plot along don't strain credulity. I like how the author weaves together historic, mythic and fictional characters into something new, yet familiar. All around a worthy investment if you like light historical fiction.

The 'longbow' series is a delightful discovery. The author has really thought himself into the way conditions operated in the age of Crusade3 but still works to modern sensibilities. The heroine has plenty of screen time and is never passive. There's just enough big-politics to set off the personalities involved. The story generally keeps on track and does not jump all over the place: I particularly like not having to keep up with scene-jumps, which seems to be a modern failing seen as a strength.

Thoroughly enjoyed the story. Bit like food really, do you gulp it down straight away, cramming the flavours in and it's over with quick or eat slowly, takes longer but not the excitement and intensity of flavours., however still feeling satisfied. Which ever way you read it, it's still enjoyable. This time, I read it over a period of a couple of months and enjoyed it. I found myself looking forward to picking up the book again and again. Wayne Grant focuses on a good story and it's interesting, never predictable, brings in many threads but does not detract from the overall storyline. Some writers you sense get bored with what they write, but you don't get that sense with Wayne Grant. You can tell he is enjoying the story because already he has written quite an amount for the next instalment. I personally am looking forward immensely to it. A strong recommendation.

Wayne Grant is a truly gifted writer, this book is the third following Longbow and Warbow, and thankfully the author has maintained the high standard of the previous books.All the characters are very realistic and their sentiments are clearly conveyed from the pages, this is one of the strengths of Mr Grant's writing style.Like many others who have read these novels, I am now waiting for the next book in the Saga of Roland Inness with great eagerness, because I know it will continue this heart warming tale in the same highly enjoyable style.

Having enjoyed the first two books in this series, I waited with great expectations for the third, I was not disappointed for it was a great read. It may be of interest to other readers that my wife has discovered she also loves Wayne Grants writing. When I suggested she try him, she was not overly keen on a medieval adventure stating bows and arrows was not really her style. However, she read the first two books, back to back, and is now beginning the third. I suggest other male readers recommend their other halves give these books a try.

A story so good that I had to immediately continue with this one from reading books 1 and 2. The tale is so gripping that if you have read the first you immediately want the whole series so as to complete the saga. This edition continues with the return of Roland to England and his mission to deliver a message to the Queen from King Richard. He returns to a realm that is split between it's allegiance between John and Richard. This is combined with his sworn determination to seek revenge for his fathers death.

Was looking forward to this latest book in the saga & was not disappointed once again could not put it down great pace ,You can relate to the characters & plot , can't wait for the next , you certainly made it up to the welsh , should be no complaints now full dues paid Wayne so chop chop back to the grind much appreciated , William,isle of man