Book Review: Valour by Richard Cullen

I’m pleased to be welcoming Richard Cullen to Novel Kicks and the blog tour for his latest book, Valour – book three in the Chronicles of the Black Lion series. 

Estienne Wace is forced to play a desperate game of cat and mouse, where the only way to win is to survive.

Burzenland 1223 AD

King András II of Hungary has invited the Teutonic Knights to secure his eastern frontier against the nomadic Cuman raiders, establishing fortresses along the Carpathian Mountains to quell the constant incursions by pagan clans.

Estienne Wace, has found purpose serving at the Order’s fortress of Rosenau, and he has earned respect through his unflinching courage. When a Christian mission, led by Fabrisse of Avallon, arrives determined to convert a pagan clan beyond the mountains, Estienne’s warnings of danger fall on deaf ears.

News soon arrives of Fabrisse’s capture and Estienne, along with a small band of knights, undertake a desperate rescue mission through hostile territory where Estienne will face trials beyond endurance.

In the ensuing crucible of violence, he must decide what price he is willing to sacrifice for survival, justice, and redemption, in a land where mercy is a luxury few can afford.

*****

Set in the 1200’s in Burzenland (a part of modern day Romania) Valour continues the tale of Estienne Wace, a young squire thrust into the house of William Marshal.

This in the third book in the Chronicles of the Black Lion series and the first I have read. I do feel that it would have helped me better understand the characters if I had read the other books, but it is by no means essential.

The plot follows the classic cat and mouse game of tracking, ambush and battle but it is well written and captivating. The villains are well written and three dimensional, although at times their motivations are somewhat predictable.

The author did a great job at setting the scene and created an immersive atmosphere.

All in all a good read. I am tempted to check out the first two parts in the series so I can get a better feel for the main character and any recurring characters.

(Thank you to Boldwood Books, Netgalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for the advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.) 

About Richard Cullen –

Richard Cullen is a writer of historical adventure and epic fantasy.

His historical adventure series Chronicles of the Black Lion is set in thirteenth-century England.

Say hello to Richard on Facebook, X, Instagram and Bookbub. Click here to sign up to his newsletter. 

Valour is book three in the Chronicles of The Black Lion series and was released by Boldwood Books on 15th August 2025. Click to buy on Amazon, Kobo and Waterstones. 

by

Chris Parish