Title: Tuck
Author: Stephen R. Lawhead
First published February 17, 2009
452 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781595540874 (ISBN10: 1595540873)
Rating: 4.11
Overview
“May our arrows fly with precision and strike with purpose.” The legendary King Raven has become a symbol of hope for the oppressed Welsh people, while his enemies, King William, Abbot Hugo, and Sheriff de Glanville, are plagued with fear. Rhi Bran, also known as King Raven, must once again take matters into his own hands to protect his people.
His trusted companion, Friar Tuck, provides him with unwavering support, guidance, and wit in his quest for justice. Together with a small group of determined outlaws, they ignite a rebellion that spreads through the valleys of Wales, forcing the cunning monarch to march his army against the small village of Elfael.
Stephen R. Lawhead’s epic trilogy concludes with “Tuck,” a spellbinding tale of bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice that challenges everything you thought you knew about the Robin Hood legend.
With unforgettable characters, gripping suspense, and thrilling battle scenes, this book is a masterpiece that will leave you breathless.
About the Author
Stephen R. Lawhead is a celebrated author who specializes in imaginative fiction and mythic history.
His impressive range of works includes Byzantium, Patrick, and three series, namely The Pendragon Cycle, The Celtic Crusades, and The Song of Albion.
Born in Nebraska, USA in 1950, Stephen spent most of his early life in America where he obtained a Fine Arts degree and attended theological college for two years. He began his professional writing career as an editor and staff writer at Campus Life magazine in Chicago, where he wrote numerous articles and several non-fiction books.
After a stint in the music industry as president of his own record company, Stephen decided to pursue full-time freelance writing in 1981. He relocated to England to research Celtic legend and history, and his first novel, In the Hall of the Dragon King, became the start of a three-book series called The Dragon King Trilogy.
He followed this up with the two-volume Empyrion saga, and then the Pendragon Cycle, consisting of five volumes: Taliesin, Merlin, Arthur, Pendragon, and Grail. The award-winning Song of Albion series followed, which includes The Paradise War, The Silver Hand, and The Endless Knot.
Stephen has also written nine children’s books, many of which were originally created for his two sons, Drake and Ross. He is married to a fellow writer with whom he has collaborated on several books and articles.
They currently reside in Oxford, England.
Stephen’s captivating non-fiction, fiction, and children’s titles have been published in twenty-one languages worldwide. All of his novels have remained continuously in print in the United States and Britain since their initial publication.
He has received numerous industry awards for his novels and children’s books, and in 2003, the University of Nebraska awarded him an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. Stephen also occasionally writes under a pseudonym.
Editoral Review
Book Review: Tuck by Stephen R. Lawhead
Stephen R. Lawhead’s Tuck is a historical fiction novel that was first published on February 17, 2009.
The book is a retelling of the classic tale of Robin Hood, told from the perspective of Friar Tuck. Set in medieval England, Tuck presents a world of political turmoil, social injustice, and religious conflict.
The novel is written in an engaging and descriptive style, filled with vivid imagery and sensory details. Lawhead’s Tuck is a thought-provoking and entertaining read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, adventure, and romance.
The story of Tuck follows the journey of a young monk named William de Baskerville, who becomes Friar Tuck after being expelled from his monastery. Tuck joins Robin Hood and his band of outlaws in their fight against the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham and the oppressive rule of Prince John.
Along the way, Tuck discovers his true identity and purpose, and becomes a key figure in the struggle for justice and freedom.
Lawhead’s depiction of medieval England is rich and immersive, with detailed descriptions of the landscapes, architecture, and customs of the time. The characters in Tuck are well-developed and multi-dimensional, with complex motivations and personalities.
Tuck himself is a sympathetic and engaging protagonist, whose journey from a naive monk to a courageous and loyal friend is both inspiring and heartwarming.
One of the strengths of Tuck is its exploration of the themes of faith, morality, and social justice. Lawhead’s portrayal of the conflict between the Catholic Church and the emerging Protestant movement adds depth and complexity to the story.
The novel also touches on issues of class, race, and gender, highlighting the injustices and inequalities that existed in medieval society. Tuck’s message of compassion, forgiveness, and redemption is both timeless and relevant, resonating with readers of all ages and backgrounds.
However, the pacing of the novel can be slow at times, with some scenes and subplots dragging on longer than necessary. The plot twists and surprise reveals are also fairly predictable, and the ending may leave some readers wanting more closure.
Additionally, some historical inaccuracies and anachronisms may bother purists and scholars of medieval history.
Overall, Tuck is a well-written and engaging novel that offers a fresh and compelling take on the Robin Hood legend. Lawhead’s prose is elegant and evocative, and his characters are memorable and relatable.
Despite some flaws and limitations, Tuck is a worthwhile read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, adventure, and romance. It is a book that will leave you thinking and feeling long after you turn the last page.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for: Fans of historical fiction, adventure, and romance; readers who enjoy retellings of classic tales; those interested in medieval history, social justice, and faith-based themes.
