For those looking for GREAT historical fiction ... you should check out W. B. Baker's latest novel, The Ravenous.
Synopsis:
Centuries of warfare had barely encroached upon Glamorgan’s boundaries and any who dared its conquest met with bold resistance. Warriors lurking in the mountains of Wales invited all unwary trespassers to come and taste of death. Such was the case in 1316, when Edward II attempted to resurrect a United Kingdom after the execution of William Wallace.
As Edward and his Nobles would all too soon discover, the rage that English garrisons uncovered across the valleys of Wales would prove to rival any fury of the Scots.
Reviews From Around The World:
A Magnificent Re-emergence of English Literature For the 21st Century
W. B. Baker has done more through his writing to promote Wales around the world than anyone in recent memory. Stunning imagery and the ability to convey the warmth of Welsh culture combine with historical accuracy to bring Wales its finest champion since Dylan Thomas.
— BBC Hall of Fame
Southwest Wales
The British People at Their Finest and Most Magnificent
Shamelessly brutal in his examination of the human heart, W. B. Baker presents Britain a stunning masterpiece of fiction. The Ravenous is Baker’s tour de force; the author using his considerable command of the English language to weave a majestic tale of valour and faith.
— Tottenham Court Road
London, England
A disturbing indictment of human frailty ...
An even more glorius assertion of man´s innate nobility
Couched inconspicuously within this modern epic of Wales lie affirmations of the true majesty of humankind … Within this moving tale, valiant men and women emerge from the mire of war to exemplify the inextinguishable courage of this nation we call home.
— Pwllypant
Caerphilly, Wales
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28 comments:
I would like to take a moment to recommend this novel, not only for those interested in English history and the period of turmoil during the reign of Edward II, but for any patriots of Wales.
A finely written, poignant story of those displaced by war - and their attempts to find redemption through survival. Written by the same author who brought us The Orphans of Carmarthen, Vault of the Griffin, and Ordeal of the Dragon. I think this might be his best effort thus far ...
Gareth in London, England
It remains a mystery how such talented writers as W. B. Baker continue to escape recognition. As a distinguished author of so many books that champion the British people around the world; one must pause to wonder how, amidst the thousands on the Honours Lists each year, this particular writer has been completely overlooked for a Knighthood. Any who have read Baker's glorious portrayal of our heritage would be quick to question this glaring oversight as well.
MP Commons
Westminster
The bloggers are finally beginning to chat about the books by this Welsh author ... a welcome change after so many years of being inundated with Harry Potter. Long overdue. Another individual in Cardiff, Wales has posted a good summary blog that lists a good number of reviews from across Britain -
http://merlinanddragonsincarmarthen.blogspot.com/
Having read, The Ravenous, I have to be honest and say that it could have used a bit more romance ... but the battle scenes were some of the best I have ever seen - reminded me of Braveheart with Mel Gibson. Good story with strong characters!
Wright-Phillips - Aberystwyth University
I agree with Edward from Aberystwyth.
The Ravenous is one of his best to date - though, Baker's Carmarthen Trilogy is rife with practical magic, mythical beasts, and captures the spirit of Wales better than most other authors.
Anyone have any news about others by this writer?
Colin
Cardiff, Wales
An extremely competent writer who has combined engrossing historical fiction with, undoubtedly, the finest iambic pentametre verse England has seen in the last hundred years.
In The Ravenous, Baker uses the character of the Welsh poet to give us compelling moral principles such as:
My Lord, the simplest truth may miss man’s groans
When he, in conquest of mere piece of land,
Forgets he fights above his father’s bones,
And only briefly in the sun may stand.
Despite the gains of life, his finite hand
May only once caress the timeless stone,
That stands forever, top the Dark Unknown.
and
For justice is a hot, two-edged sword.
Whose haft may glow as brightly as its blade;
To wield it long, a man may ill afford:
Its white-hot hilt demands a tithe be paid;
And from its bearer equal justice weighed.
Its glowing scabbard then is wisely left
With Him who deftly man from earth hath cleft.
W. B. Baker supports a finely woven tapestry of British history with powerful questions of morality that withstand not only the closest literary scrutiny; but compel each reader to examine one’s own perception of society and belief. How refreshing to find an author who has not bowed to contemporary norms, but has re-ignited the fires of quality and merit that have distinguished English literature through the centuries.
One would hope that this author, based on the attributes of excellence and weight of his body of work, would warrant consideration for the Honours Lists.
Geoffrey Crawley
London, England
W. B. Baker comes to Oxford
Followers of The Carmarthen Trilogy have discovered that the author’s writing style has become more sophisticated; while retaining the almost panoramic and yet meticulous attention to detail that characterizes Baker’s exposition.
Unlike the minimalistic dialogue and theological themes of earlier novels, The Ravenous presents multi-faceted personalities grappling to make sense of the austere conditions brought upon them by the Welsh Revolts. Of particular mention is the character of John Linstrum; an exceptionally strong protagonist who struggles with his dedication to duty and a commitment to family for which he is ill-prepared. A remarkable encapsulation of English manhood: an individual whose integrity and courage compel him to greatness.
It is a testament to Baker’s skill that such serious themes and relationships are presented in so thoughtful and sympathetic a fashion. The Ravenous is a landmark piece of historical fiction – that may well help define the genre in Britain.
Christopher
Oxford, England
Contrary to what most of the world thinks, there are many in the UK who embrace our history and mythology over pure escapism. Indeed, a surprising number actually prefer a well written novel about actual events over Harry Potter.
Having followed the novels of W. B. Baker for years, it would be brilliant to see a movie about Merlin as a child – as depicted in The Carmarthen Trilogy. Perhaps the BBC might take a look at The Ravenous as well – in that it is based on events that actually changed our nation.
The BBC Hall of Fame features a listing that proclaims W. B. Baker as having “done more through his writing to promote Wales around the world than anyone in recent memory.” After reading his books, one finds it difficult to disagree.
Sion Phillips
Nottingham - by way of Swansea
Brilliant!
Found THE RAVENOUS at Foyles Bookstore in London.
Simply unbelievable that Baker has not been honoured or mentioned in the Honours Lists!
Great Story - Superb Characters
Probably one of the greatest living English authors!!
Delightful Storytelling!
W. B. Baker lavishes special attention on Monmouth’s extraordinary heritage. An engaging and compelling history of Wales in the decades after the defeat of William Wallace, when the English under Edward II attempted to subjugate Wales.
The Ravenous encapsulates the sweeping historical transformations and charm of charismatic individuals who shaped Caerphilly. A classic local history of the region and a true pleasure to read.
FIVE STARS!
Richard Maitland
Leicester, England
I read the book following the rave reviews of a friend.
A fascinating and sumptuous novel that captures Britain’s charm. The Ravenous indulges our fantasies about what a historical fiction and great romance can be, and after reading it, I struggled with strong disappointment with my real life - longing for a great purpose for my existence; or meaningful relationships that merit such passion.
A lot of fiction and romantic stories in general can have that effect — encouraging the longing for more, and discouraging the contentment that you had before reading the book. Sometimes it’s good to be awakened.
I echo the earlier comments of other about W. B. Baker. I have great faith in their discernment skills and I really appreciate everyone’s clarity and positive comments on this GREAT work of English literature.
[Congressional Record: March 15, 2006 (Extensions)]
[Page E365]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:cr15mr06-16]
TRIBUTE TO DR. WILLIAM BAKER
______
HON. IKE SKELTON
House of Representatives
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Mr. Speaker, let me take this opportunity to recognize the many achievements of Dr. William Allen Baker (PgD, PhD, DLitt, ThD, Kt.OBE),who is an accomplished actor, educator, author, and philanthropist.
Dr. Baker conducted his graduate studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and at the University College, Wales, United Kingdom. A Rotary Foundation International Graduate Fellow, he has earned a Doctorate in Theatre History (Ph.D), a Doctor of Letters (D.Litt), a Doctorate in Theology (Th.D), and an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity (HonDD).
Previously an Associate Professor and Department Chairman at Avila University, Dr. Baker has published several books. His stage and film credits include performances in England, France, and Wales. Dr. Baker is a member of the Royal Star and Garter, the Royal British Legion, the British Society of Ethical Theory, the British Theological Institute, the American Biographical Institute, the International Society of Philosophers, Franciscans International, the Council for Parliament of the World's Religions, the Screen Actors Guild, and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.
Dr. Baker has been bestowed several awards and honors including the International Peace Prize, the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal, the Magistracy Medal of Honor, and the International Professor of the Year 2005. He has been nominated for the American Medal of Honor for contributions to literature, the International Medal of Freedom, and International Writer of the Year. Dr. Baker has also been named to the BBC Hall of Fame, Top 100 Writers 2005, and Outstanding Intellectuals of the 21st Century.
Mr. Speaker, I wish to extend my congratulations to Dr. Baker for his many achievements and wish him luck in all his future endeavors.
It’s very helpful to follow the reasoning of other readers.
As an enthusiastic devotee of British History, one unearths many points in favor of these novels.
The books of W. B. Baker teach many worthy concepts: that one does not have to surrender to his or her weaknesses and flaws; and that the disposition of the common man is every bit as vital to our heritage as those of the aristocracy.
With such strong, positive messages, these books are an immense improvement in the genre of historical fiction – far more resilient in theme and conviction than Harry Potter and other newer books that cater to pure entertainment rather than principles.
Kudos to the author for clouting our sensibilities – in an unapologetic attempt to awaken England’s devotion to a grand and goodly heritage.
Jane Waite
Royal Tunbridge Wells
I have never left a comment before, but must say that - all things being equal - the reviews from Great Britain about this writer are much more intelligent than most of those on the internet. Which, I suppose, says something about the average intelligence of UK readers!
That aside, I would like to congratulate Great Britain for recognizing one of their own; particularly one who seems to somehow capture the majesty of the English language. Baker's poetry in THE RAVENOUS reminds me of Shakespeare's Rape of Lucrece ... well constructed and full of imagery! The writing itself is so colorful and descriptive - much like that of Edgar Allen Poe: so meticulous in every detail that one begins to "feel" the atmosphere in which his characters thrive.
W. B. Baker's writing style is so very rare these days. A style that embraces the finest facets of literature and never contradicts itself by appealing to the "lowest common denominator" - writing that truly tries to show us what men and women are capable of in their finest moments.
In all respects, W. B. Baker does England proud.
Donald McCarthy
Chicago - USA
Skillful and Extraordinary!
Baker, through a great story and powerful language, impresses our hearts and compels us to reflect on the direction of culture and society. A provocative blend of fantasy and history that rises above simple escapism and makes one consider what is good and true. The Ravenous is an engaging slice of life from the early Middle Ages – where the principles of interesting characters, more than their particular situations, present readers timely reflections about our own lives.
W. B. Baker reveals why he is rapidly becoming one of Britain’s leading authors.
Kirsten Braun
Aschaffenburg, DE
An engaging and compelling, engrossing historical drama.
Too often, contemporary writers feel compelled to reduce their characters to melodrama – where the protagonists (good guys) are ridiculously portrayed as “right” and antagonists (bad guys) are completely void of any redeeming qualities whatsoever. In facile, artificial plots; their conflict comes from simplistic confrontations between good and evil – where there remains little doubt with whom the author – much less the reader – should identify.
Baker takes the unpopular step of introducing us to completely average characters – whose inherent flaws, as much as situations, force them to make decisions that alter their lives. In exuberantly detailed scenes that authentically recreate the sights, sounds, and smells of Medieval Britain, The Ravenous presents readers to experience the suffering and turmoil of history – presenting insight into human interaction and relationships that defy neat explanation.
Let’s face it, each generation faces identical moral decisions and must struggle to overcome the limitations of their time. Baker recognizes and embraces this reality; obliging us to identify not with the heroic traits of unrealistic, two-dimensional characters but revealing the kinship all people share through their inadequacies and shortcomings.
The battle scenes are wonderfully horrible: depicting the ambient terror that any of us who have actually experienced war will immediately identify. So, too, the most intimate of tender moments. Baker condenses the human experience into believable reality; avoiding the “highlight reel” effect that most melodramatic films and books embrace.
The hideous and handsome aspects of mankind are portrayed as we encounter them in life – through the ordinary guises of friendship, family, and hatred. Readers are left to impugn the characters with their own morals – to impale or pardon as they see fit.
The Ravenous imparts a truth seldom conveyed: that the triumphs and tragedies of our lives are seldom dictated by our decisions – but by our ability to live with their consequences.
Upon reading Baker’s account of the siege of Caerphilly, and the shared appraisal of numerous other readers of his contribution to literature, one must share the opinion that this author warrants recognition in the Honours Lists. Acknowledgment of the common British subject’s inherent decency and integrity merits equal respect and admiration from those this writer has so brilliantly portrayed.
Alastair Browne
Kensington
The last time I visited Carmarthen, I made a point to make the trek up Bryn Myrddin and wander across the fields atop the Alltyfyrddin Farm to personally observe the setting of Baker’s Carmarthen Trilogy (The Orphans of Carmarthen, Vault of the Griffin, and Ordeal of the Dragon).
That the writer spent quite some time atop this self-same mountain immediately became quite obvious – in that, though the wind whipped the grass about to the point that I thought it might well toss me down the side – there is some unspeakable magic in the trees. W. B. Baker must have felt the same; for his three books about Merlin as a child in Carmarthen depict the breathtaking views across the valley with uncanny accuracy. So exact are the author’s description of the town and vale that one pauses to wonder if he somehow managed to actually locate Merlin’s cave and venture underground to view the legendary beasts that, legends say, inhabit caves under Bryn Myrddin.
Terrible and wonderful, one marvels that such depictions might simply spring from Baker’s cleverness or, just perhaps, he managed to catch a glimpse of Wales from the imagination of a child.
Personally, I found his three Carmarthen novels far preferable to Harry Potter – where witchcraft and incantations supersede the unrivalled wonder that is Britain. W. B. Baker reintroduces his readers to the actual mythology and legends that have served to spur our imaginations for the past thousand years.
A glorious achievement in story telling – cleverly wrapped in the simple stories of a boy and his dog.
Sarah Peterson
Birmingham, UK
If one aspires to understand the nuances of the English mind of the early Middle Ages, the Magna Charta stands alone as a testimony of its time.
Should readers desire to grasp the implications involved in struggle for Scottish freedom, Braveheart and the accounts of William Wallace at the Battle of Sterling Bridge provide no finer a position.
Equally, W. B. Baker’s The Ravenous is THE seminal work to consider should one wish to identify and interpret the repercussions of political and social struggle between Wales and England in latter half of the 13th century.
Unapologetic and replete with accurate historical accounts, W. B. Baker takes his place as one of the revered novelists of this genre: delivering conscientious perspectives that examine of both sides of the conflict; while delivering personable characters with whom readers may straightforwardly identify.
The Ravenous should be required reading for Students of Literature and English History alike - Instructors and Professors equating the writing of W. B. Baker to distinguished authors who have, likewise, abridged British philosophy and principles into superior literature.
Professor
University of London
Baker touches a nerve, something of the soul, with his eloquence. When he writes:
Like dowagers, wild mares with tangled manes
Run o'er the heath and browse:
Where blood once ran and valiant
Fell to die in evening shade;
As all men die: ignored beneath the sand.
How fickle the world, that Poets now lie;
On soft, blood-stained fields,
Where heroes once died.
THIS is the England I have been waiting to see in poetry - in our Literature.
In a world that has all but forgotten the power and beauty of the English language and the GREATNESS of our island - W. B. Baker defiantly unveils our heart for all the world to see.
Britain’s Grandeur and Brilliance Has Been Restored!
2009 made its way into my home with W. B. Baker’s, The Ravenous.
As a devotee of Agatha Christie for many years, the characters in Baker’s novel seemed to, likewise, step right out of the tiny villages of Gloucestershire. This writer captures the quaint personalities of picturesque rural England and reveals their innermost flaws through the struggles of war. One becomes immediately aware that the author is intimately familiar with Monmouthshire and the inspirational qualities of the British people: as the English and Welsh are equally portrayed with surprising insight and humanity.
More than simply uncovering dusty relics and crumbling bones of legendary heroes, W. B. Baker brings life to history far better than some of the more recognizable authors found upon the High Street bookshelves . The Ravenous outshines other attempts at historical fiction I have read – surpassing most with a great story line and excelling in giving us a glimpse of why we are inextricably drawn to our great heritage.
An excellent account of British history – told by an author who warrants mention in all literary circles.
G’day!
Some of my mates and I are a bit stonkered why this bloke’s books aren’t available in more bookstores in Queensland. We have been fossicking around, but at least found them on the internet. Reckon they must be everywhere else before arriving here in the Lucky Country!
Its about time everyone gave Baker a fair go, some of us are fed up to the back teeth with flaming Harry Potter!
Can’t say much more than what others have written – but that this book left me grinning like a shot fox. A good story and easy to read (which comes in handy when flat out like a lizard drinking). Much, much better than some of the clapped out ideas some writers are trying to sell!
A dazzler!
We were required to read many novels in writing courses while at college – some of which were actually Terrible!
After reading W. B. Baker’s THE RAVENOUS, it is simply inexcusable that more instructors and faculty do not require their students to read this book.
Not only is it terribly well written, with great exposition and characters, but challenges readers to actually make decisions about their own behavior.
Baker dares us to evaluate our own lives by the failures and achievements of our ancestors.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough; nor, for the life of me, understand how it has escaped the attention of English Departments across the United States.
One look at how this author has been received around the world – particularly in England – makes his role in contemporary literature even more obvious.
Mary Finley, MA
Though not my standard practice to leave comments on internet blogs, this author actually deserves particular mention.
Baker’s latest, The Ravenous, merits entry in contests.
Seldom does one come across a writer who appears to compress the atmosphere of a region better. Indeed, nature plays as great a role as any character in this superb tale of battle and loss.
Others have penned superlative reviews that far surpass anything I might write; however, let me say that any native of Wales must certainly take pride in Baker’s portrayal of their people and nation – as we English can each identify with the character of John Linstrum: as possessing strength of will and courage that we, if afforded similar circumstances, might hope to exemplify.
Kudos to this author ― in honouring our occasionally neglected integrity.
K. Montgomery
Canterbury, Kent
People applying for UK citizenship are required to take the Life in the UK test – which consists of multiple choice questions about UK history and our culture. It would be wholly understandable if, when someone is questioned as to why she or he wishes to become a British national, they simply lay a copy of W. B. Baker’s, The Ravenous, on the desk.
No contemporary author has ever made me more proud to be English.
There is simply nothing more to say.
Elizabeth Harris
Islington
Everyone has been talking about the images of war presented in Baker's books, but there is a wonderful story in The Ravenous as well.
Touching emotions about a Daughter trying to find her Father in the midst of turmoil and upheaval; then trying to forgive him for abandoning her once she actually locates him. Yes, the poetry is quite good; and the battle scenes very believable: but what sets this book apart is the fact that the author actually makes his readers care about the emotional struggles the characters face as they try to survive in a world that appears to be crumbling down around them.
More honest emotion and principle than I have seen in many years. What with everything going on in the world these days; it is fantastic to see a writer actually communicate a sincere and candid concern for his neighbour.
First-rate writing!
Quoted with Kind Permission of Liam in Wales:
Not shoddy sentimentality but honest sentiment, this account set during the Second Crusade tells the heroic tale of men and women who may, through the savagery of conflict, abandon religion but never their faith: who might mislay their cause but, by no means, their conscience.
- Abergavenny, Monmouthshire
The Lion and The Falcon, Baker's latest novel has been released. In short - it is EVEN BETTER than his earlier works.
A fantastic tale of the period between the Second and Third Crusade ... when Britain was searching for meaning in a world that seemed cruel and unjust.
Cardiff Colin
A melding of the styles of Poe and Shakespeare! No other contemporary British author can match Baker's imagery!!!
Up from the soil, the rank and fetid air
Twirls slow in pungent whirls of greyish blue,
Between the figures huddled in despair
Whose ashen limbs the swirling fumes imbue
As animated, stick-like toys of death:
Who dance forever, ever void of breath.
No other British Author paints the landscape of one's imagination with such fantastic scenes. I keep looking for his name on the Honours Lists ... surely such writing cannot go overlooked for long.
A great story of the Second Crusade - which captures the sense of futility and aimlessness we all experience at times.
What a credit to England! That we may claim a writer with such emotional range and wealth of talent!
Yet again, this Award-Winning Author demonstrates his extraordinary prowess in creating evocative word pictures - along with an uncanny ability to encapsulate the most heroic and loathsome qualities in us all.
Chandlier - Nottingham, England
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