Celebrating Five Years of "The Last King"

The Journey of Coelwulf II

Back in 2020, I finally wrote a book that had been on my mind for a long time. It tells the story of Mercia's last king, Coelwulf II. Although I think I should have spelled his name as Ceolwulf, I went with Coelwulf. The book has since spawned my most successful series to date, featuring "The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles." This series showcases a younger version of Coelwulf's outspoken fellow warrior, Icel.

The book turned out to be very different from what I initially envisioned. In fact, it is not just one book but a series of ten (with more to come). The series features a cast of lovable, foul-mouthed rogues who are as loyal to each other as they are to the horses they ride. I’ve discussed before why the characters are so sweary. I know not everyone enjoys that aspect, but these men are who they are. Thankfully, Coelwulf's aunt keeps a watchful eye on them and occasionally encourages them to be a bit more polite.

A Special Anniversary Edition

I have long wanted to celebrate the five-year anniversary of the book's release. Over the years, I’ve had many ideas about how to mark this occasion. When the time finally came, it was unexpected. The cover design was created by someone I asked to work on some sprayed edges to enhance the cover. It is understated, yet I believe it makes the edition all the more special.

BookVault can incorporate sprayed edges, a design on the endpapers, high-quality white printing paper, and a ribbon to help keep track of your reading. There are also new chapter headings. However, at its core, this is still "The Last King," which was released on 23rd April 2020. At that time, we were all searching for distractions from the horrors of the pandemic. Writing about Coelwulf and his allies (and enemies) has been both fun and comforting for me. I know these characters well; they live in my head rent-free, and I don’t mind at all.

Limited Edition Copies

Let’s take a look at the designs for this special edition, which will only be available directly from me. I don’t plan to release it widely and will limit it to just 100 printed copies. Each book will be signed by me, and I’ll include some goodies with it as well. However, to get a copy, you must order it via my SumUp shop. I will also be offering discount codes to readers who preorder "The Last King."

Check out "The Last King" and "The Last Warrior" below.

Order Link

The Creative Process Behind the Series

Writing a series like this is no small feat. It requires dedication, creativity, and a deep understanding of the characters. Each book builds upon the last, creating a rich tapestry of stories that resonate with readers. The characters evolve, and their relationships deepen, making each new installment a fresh experience.

Character Development

Character development is crucial in any story. In "The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles," Coelwulf and his companions face numerous challenges that test their loyalty and courage. Their personalities shine through in their dialogue, which is often filled with humour and grit. This authenticity makes them relatable to readers.

World-Building

World-building is another essential aspect of the series. The setting of Mercia is not just a backdrop; it plays a vital role in shaping the characters and their journeys. I strive to create a vivid picture of this historical period, immersing readers in the sights and sounds of the time.

Reader Engagement

Engaging with readers has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. I love hearing their thoughts on the characters and the storylines. It’s fascinating to see how different readers interpret the same events. This interaction fuels my passion for writing and inspires me to keep creating.

Looking Ahead

As I look to the future, I am excited about what lies ahead for Coelwulf and his companions. There are still many stories to tell, and I can’t wait to share them with you. The journey of writing is ongoing, and I am grateful to have readers who support my work.

In conclusion, the celebration of five years since the release of "The Last King" is not just about the book itself. It’s about the journey, the characters, and the connection with readers. Thank you for being a part of this adventure. I hope you enjoy the special edition and continue to follow Coelwulf's story as it unfolds.