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Essex Dogs

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Essex Dogs

By: Dan Jones
Narrated by: Ben Miles
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About this listen

Globally bestselling historian Dan Jones makes his historical fiction debut with Essex Dogs, the explosive first instalment in an epic new trilogy set during the Hundred Years War.

July 1346. The Hundred Years' War has begun, and King Edward and his lords are on the march through France. But this war belongs to the men on the ground.

Swept up in the bloody chaos, a tight-knit company from Essex must stay alive long enough to see their home again. With sword, mace and longbow, the Essex Dogs will fight, from the landing beaches of Normandy to the bloodsoaked field of Crécy.

There's Pismire, small enough to infiltrate enemy camps. Scotsman, strong enough to tear down a wall. Millstone, a stonemason who'll do anything to protect his men. Father, a priest turned devilish by the horrors of war. Romford, a talented young archer on the run from his past. And Loveday Fitztalbot, their battle-scarred captain, who just wants to get his boys home safe.

Some men fight for glory. Others fight for coin. The Essex Dogs? They fight for each other.

©2022 Dan Jones (P)2022 Head of Zeus Genre Fiction Historical Historical Fiction Medieval Military Mystery Thriller & Suspense War & Military Fiction Middle Ages War Royalty

Critic Reviews

"Jones is certainly an entertainer, but also a fine historian." (The Times)

"When it comes to rip-roaring medieval narratives, Jones has few peers." (Sunday Times)

"Dan Jones writes with pace, wit and insight." (Helen Castor)
All stars
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I love Dan Jones’ non-fiction and (while not perfect) his first fictional debut did not disappoint. Well-written, well-narrated, and enjoyable, I feel like it was lacking some character development though. Looking forward to the next one.

Enjoyable

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Incredible writing that makes you feel you’re right there. Can’t wait for the next instalment!!

This needs to be a movie!!

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I have enjoyed Dan Jones’s books in the past and his foray into fiction is a promising move. It is a well constructed journey into 14th century life from an author who can provide more authenticity than most. The characters are likeable (the Earl of Northampton probably one of my favourite all-time characters) It looks as though it is a start of a trilogy, I certainly hope so.

An excellent novel from a great historian

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Good action / war story told from the perspective of ordinary soldiers with language, including swearing, that befits the characters.

Outstanding Historical War Story

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I love history and Dan Jones’ non-fiction works are very accessible as is his narration. Essex Dogs is good reading and listening, the characters are engaging and you want to find out how they survive but North Hampton is my favourite and the narration here allows you to imagine the fellow and laugh at his insults! Looking forward to the next book in the series as we are not finished with Loveday and his company!

Characters to capture you

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A great rollicking story about the horrors of combat at the start of the 100 Years War. Loved it! Ben Miles’narration is superb bringing great characters like Northampton and the Scotsman alive with believable accents. Can’t wait to start Dan Jones’ sequel.

Off to France in 1346… boots and all!

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A superb narrative of the bonds forged in war set in a unique period of history that comes alive 👌👏👏

Masterpiece

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This was the most enjoyable readings I have ever come across and to accompany such a great story - it was a rare pleasure.

Outstanding performance

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I found the story overall to be somewhat slow and really lacking an interesting arc.

The character development had some promise but it never quite hooks you in enough to care too much about them.

It’s a serviceable story that is very grounded but it failed to capture my interest and it was a bit of a slog to finish.

Not sure I’d come back for the follow up novel.

Flat and lacking character depth

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Lifelike characters from the French English wars; from the rough and uncouth to those who send them into battle. Very enjoyable blunt and believable story of campaign. I enjoyed the audible version very much, although perhaps I can be patient enough to wait for the next one’s hard copy (not likely). Loved Dan Jones’ first go at fiction and I bet he will get even better the more he writes.

Great Campaign story

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