The Bear and the Dragon by Jason Roberts
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to discover you’re not just any soldier, but the legendary King Arthur himself? That’s exactly the kind of earth-shattering revelation that kicks off “The Bear and the Dragon” by Jason Roberts, and let me tell you, this isn’t your typical Arthurian retelling.
What immediately captivated me about this take on the Arthur legend is its gritty historical grounding. Roberts plants us firmly in the chaos of Rome’s withdrawal from Britain, when the very foundations of civilization are crumbling. Our protagonist isn’t some noble-born hero – he’s a hardened Decurion, a cavalry officer doing his duty at the edge of a dying empire. This practical military perspective breathes fresh life into the oft-told tale.
The author has masterfully woven together historical fiction and mystical elements. The way Merlin (or Emrys) is introduced feels organic and mysterious, while the political machinations of Uther PenDragon and the supernatural threats from Morgana create a rich tapestry of danger. Think Bernard Cornwell’s “The Winter King” meets Guy Gavriel Kay’s historical fantasy, but with its own distinct voice.
What particularly stands out is how Roberts builds tension on multiple fronts. There’s the immediate military threat from Hibernia, the personal conflict with Uther, and the mystical opposition from Morgana – all while our protagonist grapples with an identity he never asked for. The story promises to explore themes of duty, destiny, and the price of power in a way that feels both timeless and relevant.
For readers who love their historical fantasy with a hefty dose of military strategy and political intrigue, this book seems poised to deliver. It’s perfect for fans of Maurice Druon’s “The Accursed Kings” series or Conn Iggulden’s historical epics, but with a supernatural twist that adds another layer of complexity to the moral challenges faced by our reluctant hero.
