This is aimed at general readers with an interest in the Anglo-Saxon monarchy as opposed to being a dry textbook with 100s of footnotes. This is the type of non-fiction I prefer.

Having stated that, certain sections didn’t hold my attention, which is why I’ve rated it four stars, not five. I didn’t, for example, like the digressions about what was going on in other countries. I like non-fiction books to stay on topic.

Also, I’d hoped for more on the likes of King Penda of Mercia, a true warrior king of the seventh century, but sadly the pre-Alfred years are a little rushed over. Once we get to Alfred’s grandfather, the narrative focuses more on individual kings and those closest to them and what was happening in the country. ( )