If you have ever read a Bernard Cornwell you know to expect brutal fight scenes and intrigue. The Last Kingdom has all of it and I thought it was spectacular. Uhtred, the hero, is fantastic ! I would go into battle at his side. If you think life is hard now watch this series and things will come into perspective. This is my ancestry and I was inspired, not to go into battle, but to accept the small, in comparison, difficulties of everyday life now. An awesome series. Bernard Cornwell should be very proud.