RJay's Reviews > The Blooding

While I enjoyed this book, for me it was a mixed bag. It was an easy read that brought to life the travails of an English bowman on the Normandy campaign of 1346 which culminated at the Battle of Crecy. However, I felt the premise too closely resembled that of Bernard Cornwell's trilogy about Thomas Hookton and his escapades during the 100 Years War. About half-way through I was surprised that the novel evolved into a medieval romance and combined with the hero's superhuman ability in just a year to become an expert swordsman beating others who had spent all their lives learning the skills, it just didn't ring true enough for this reader.

One other aspect that annoyed me terribly was a comment on P. 166 - yes, it bothered me so much I memorized the page number! It was a reference to a knight finding it difficult to gain his feet under the 70 lb. weight of his armor. If one is at all knowledgeable about armor, this is pure 'theatrics' as in the movie Henry V (Agiincourt) with Lawrence Olivier where the movie shows him being lifted onto his horse via a medieval crane! Pure lunac! Plus during Crecy, knights did not yet wear full plate armor but even if they did, they were able to move most ably. If you don't believe me, check out Toby Capwell's YouTube video which demonstrates their ability to move as well as the comparison between a fully-armored knight and current-day firefighter and soldier going through an obstacle course. This comment goes against the author's own 'historical note' about the strength and stamina of medieval knights.

The best part of this book, for me, were the battle scenes. Whether archer or men-at-arms, Gilman's ability to bring the battles alive is noteworthy. And I absolutely loved the banter between the soldiers! Great dialogue, Master Gilman!