The Ravenous - latest novel of British author W. B. Baker, tells the story of the Welsh Revolts
It was only a matter of time before some intrepid author picked up the story of Edward II, son of King Edward I "Longshanks" of England and decided to write about the ongoing struggle of the Welsh against the English after the defeat of William Wallace.
Far from simply adapting the Scottish tale, Baker relates how, once Scotland had gained its freedom, the king of England turned his attention to conquering the Celtic tribes of western Wales. The Ravenous deals primarily with the attacks on Caerphilly Castle in 1316 - an imposing challenge, as there is little accurate historical record of the actual battle.
This award-winning author once again demonstrates what has truly distinguished his historical fiction from that of other writers - in that there is meticulous attention given to descriptions of the locations and topography - along with complex characters with whom we can actually identify. So many writers of this genre simply invent individuals whose personalities and temperaments match the themes the authors wish to emphasize. W. B. Baker gives us a real opportunity to understand complete characters - with individuals presented with their subtlties of intention and nuance.
A fantastic look into the mindset of the aristocracy and common man of the Middle Ages.
The Ravenous has received kudos from readers across Britain, whose ancestral allegiances may or may not have been influenced by the loyalties of their patriarchs. More than any other writer today, W. B. Baker is not bashful about revealing the flaws of theology and the societies that embrace them ... which gives us, as readers, the singular opportunity to evaluate our own beliefs against the tapestry of our common history as Britons.
An uncommon novel from an exceptional mind.
What Others Have Said:
One of the Finest Authors of the last Quarter Century
Those of us who are fortunate enough to live in Wales are already keenly aware of this author and his many novels ... with W. B. Baker's novels now available around the world, the list of readers is growing every day.
Recognised as one of the foremost contemporary UK authors and honoured by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth personally, W. B. Baker has captured the TRUE magic of the British Isles in a series of novels that overwhelm the senses with vibrant imagery and historical accuracy.
Baker's latest novel, The Ravenous, is quite possibly his finest to date. Comparable to the Scottish Braveheart, Caerphilly Castle takes centre stage in this dynamic tale of war and love. Set during the Welsh Revolts and only six years after the death of William Wallace, the Welsh struggle against English rule - in a tumultous conflict that demonstrates the best of the British character.
Description:
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.
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
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
Novels by W. B. Baker are now available in bookstores in the UK, USA, Europe, Japan, and Australia - and around the world from Foyles Bookstore in London, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and WHSmith.
Included in Thomson Gale's prestigious Contemporary Authors, W. B. Baker has been honoured around the world as one of the premier authors of historical fiction - bestowed honours from the British Government and that of the United States as well. His UK web site: drwbbaker.co.uk showcases this author's contributions to literature and, though minimalistic in nature, cannot but demonstrate the impact this writer has had on contemporary fiction.
David McAlister said...
I feel that Dr. Baker is not only a very gifted author, he is also one of the most interesting and compassionate people I have been fortunate to become friends with.
Mitchell said...
Great to see people talking about this author!I agree - The Ravenous - is probably Baker's strongest work so far. In-depth historical research into Edward II and a compelling storyline. GREAT BATTLE SCENES and some of the best poetry I've come across in years.
Mitchell New York
Gillian - Edinburgh said...
WHSmith now offers THE RAVENOUS and several of his other books! I couldn't find them at several bookstores, but they are all available on the internet. REALLY Brilliant writing! A touching account (The Ravenous) of a father and daughter trying to come to deal with war and its effect on their lives. Extremely well researched. Some of the best British storytelling out there!
Geoffrey Crawley said...
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 He whom 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
Kathleen Ashford said...
Every now and then, one inadvertently picks up a book and discovers not only a moving story but stumbles upon an innovative perspective.
Such is the case with W. B. Baker’s, The Ravenous.
Far from the hackneyed, stale viewpoint of British history that one finds all too often amidst the gloomy corridors of University – this writer narrates a magnificent tale of Caerphilly Castle and Edward II in bright, unsullied prose. Vibrant images of Britain and its people capture one’s imagination – depicting the indefinable majesty of our often ignored heritage.Writing that genuinely glorifies our birthright and legacy as a nation!
- Kathleen Ashford University of Hertfordshire
Ystrad Mynach said...
Since several readers have mentioned Baker's poetry, I thought I would mention A SOLITARY FROST - his book of poetry. The love sonnets are particularly worth noting! Nice to see so sensitive a writer these days!
- Ystrad Mynach
Christopher MacAskill said...
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
Sion Phillips said...
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
Fiona in Bloomsbury/London said...
Brilliant!
Nothing short of Brilliant!
Found THE RAVENOUS at Foyles Bookstore in London. Simply unbelievable that Baker has not been honoured or mentioned in the Queen's Honours Lists!
Great Story - Superb Characters
Probably one of the greatest living English authors!!
- Fiona Axworthy in Bloomsbury London, England
Trevor Carrington said...
Well, I must say that it is about time W. B. Baker has received some attention from bloggers around the world. I particularly appreciated the great effort and attention needed to create the entire religion of the Banfaith Witches in Baker's Carmarthen Trilogy. To mesh conceptual theology with Christianity and Druidism was NO SMALL undertaking.
Clever and Creative Writing by an author that has long been overlooked.
- Trevor Carrington Aberdeen
James Talbot, Cambridge UK said...
The battle at Caerphilly is told from the sensitive perspective of well-meaning participants on both sides of the conflict: revealing the good and despicable characters of both the Welsh and the English. Baker’s approach blends shrewd scholarship, biography, and hearsay in his beautiful novel, The Ravenous.
Summing up: HIGHLY Recommended.
Phillipa Edwards, Kingston-upon-Hull said...
This account of Caerphilly Castle and the period of Edward II captivated me. It was as though I sat in the company of the characters, whose personal histories entwined with imposing countryside.
Evocative word pictures of an astonishing array of locales in Monmouthshire.
Baker aptly combines local lore and legends with anecdotes and scholarly research and, as a result, this book would find a worthwhile place on the shelf of both scholars and followers of English historical fiction. An entertaining and intimate narrative that captures not only the charm of the area, but of the Welsh and English as well.
“Exceptional book”
Richard - Leicester, England said...
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!
14 comments:
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.
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.
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!
Tooling around the internet and found this blog about W. B. Baker.
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, English
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
A professor of mine from university (long since retired to the peace of Wokingham, Berkshire)commented to me about this author:
W. B. Baker reveals a stunning ability to expose Britain’s collective integrity.
His novels dominate the genre with the writer’s impartial portrayal of our imperfections and consummate greatness.
There was a good reason she was a Professor!
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