The most detailed siege in the story, and the most important given its effect on the Dogs, is the siege of Caen. Instead this is a story of constant momentum, following the English as they push further into France and sow havoc to keep the pretender Phillipe’s forces off balance. Crecy isn’t the subject of the novel, though there’s no huge buildup to it. Essex Dogs is Dan Jones’ first foray into historical fiction, and those who like gritty medieval adventures will find it a solid contribution.Įssex Dogs follows the English advance from its initial landings near La Hougue (not far from the Allied beachheads five centuries hence) to the Battle of Crecy, in which French haste spoiled a probable victory and created instead a resounding defeat for the fleur-de-lis. This band of brothers (and one errant priest called Father) have known combat before, but once the French begin to rally to the defense of their liege, the company will be sorely tested and blooded. His majesty Edward III has come to make good his claim to the French throne, and in advance of England’s troops arriving, a small company of mercenaries known as the Essex Dogs have landed on a Norman beach to deal with any potential welcoming committees. In 1066 Normandy invaded England: in 1346, England returned the favor.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |