Men of Iron by M J Porter

Blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources

M.J. Porter's new series plunges into post-Arthurian Britain, AD 540, a land of tribal conflict. Meddi, a seeress, seeks vengeance and the return of her villa, leading her tribe against those who want their wealth. Simultaneously, Wærmund, a Saxon warrior fleeing his father's wrath after a brutal act, heads west with his band, seeking fortune. Their paths are destined to cross in a world defined by iron and rust, where ancient magic and ruthless ambition clash.

A dark and atmospheric story of two leaders fighting to survive in a crumbling Britain.

M J Porter’s Men of Iron is the gritty first novel in a new series, set in post-Arthurian Britain. The Romans have left and have taken the infrastructure. The characters left in this world are forced to fight for resources and status, including iron. Iron and the blacksmith skill are seen as a form of ‘magik’ and are fiercely sought after by competing tribes.

Porter establishes this chaotic, brutal and struggling Britain effectively. From the lack of shields and quality metals needed for their way of life to the deep rifts between families and the bloodthirsty need for survival. It’s a bleak setting, but a fascinating part of British history that doesn’t have as many dedicated chapters in the history books.

Meddi is an intriguing character. As a seeress, she has a terrifying aura, painting her face and throwing curses and chants at those who oppose her. Her past trauma is slowly revealed, providing insight into her cold and callous demeanor and role as leader. But hints are also revealed as to why she is the way she is and the trauma she has endured. We glimpse moments of humanity within her, and the result is a complex, relatable character.

The story unfolds within a tight timeframe and the first-person narration creates a sense of focused intensity. Because of this, reading this book requires a bit of focus and slowing down to be able to absorb the atmosphere. That said, there are plenty of battles, political intrigue and contests for power that elevate the narrative.

For me, this read more like a prequel, in terms of the way in which it slowly and carefully set the scene, characters and world-building for the rest of the series. While this felt contained, there’s a sense of growing intensity that the rest of the series looks set to promise.

I'm intrigued to see where the series goes next.

Thank you to Rachel of Rachel’s Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the ARC.