Book Reviews of The Archer's Tale (Grail Quest, Bk 1)

The Archer's Tale by Bernard Cornwell was read for a reading challenge. I truly enjoy books when the author spends time describing the research and/or how the tale is developed. It's fun to get into the author's mind. This book was fun to read and I can see how people get into Cornwell's writing. The battles described in Archer are fantastic and realistic. I felt that I knew the characters in this book and am looking forward to the next volume in this series and seeing what happens to Thomas, the archer in The Vagabond. My recommendation: Take time to read this one.

This is the first Bernard Cornwell book I have read. It is a fascinating look into the 14th century England. Highly recommended to those, like me, who enjoy historical fiction. It is also very historically accurate which makes it even better. Thank you to PBS for the referral as I had not heard of this author before!

A gritty but enjoyable tale in Cornwell's usual style, about a young peasant man who is forced to leave his home, and becomes a mercenary archer. Cornwell's research, particularly on archery, make this title an enjoyable read, even for those of us not "into" is Sharpe's series (which I am not).

I don't usually enjoy Bernard Cornwell's writing style - there are a lot of war scenes that tend to stagnate and seem to be unnecessary. But I did enjoy this book and I have continued to the second book in this series - Vegabond. The third book is Heretic.

Thoroughly enjoyed the book. I'm a big Bernard Cornwell fan. The book was action packed, detailed in its historical explanations of the time and place. I give the book an 8 out of 10.

great read!

1st in the Thomas of Hookton (or Grail Quest Series) my husand is looking forward to the rest of the series.

#1 Of the "Grail Quest"
Excellent read!!

The start to the Grail series; heavy reading. If you're a fan of the Sharpe series you may like this one - I wasn't. YMMV, of course!

excellent depth for the historical reader!

Great history.

Good story about 14th Century English/French wars and also a bit of search for the holy relics. I enjoyed it.

Book One of Cornwell's Grail Quest Series. Great stuff!

A different series of Bernard Cornwall, this one centering around an archer who ends up on a quest for the Holy Grail.

very exciting-good story, well plotted!