As the clash of swords and the cries of the fallen resound through the valleys of Germany, King Gustavus Adolphus stands poised to change the course of history.
Fourteen years of devastation sparked by religious tensions have left a scarred land and the Swedish monarch gathers his loyal army for a final, decisive strike against the tyranny of the Catholic Cause.
Once again all hope is pinned on James Bretherton, now a senior commander in the Protestant Army, whose name has become synonymous with courage and leadership.
After a brief respite in the company of his family, he is drawn back into the conflict — not just out of duty, but compelled by a deeper calling to secure the religious freedom of the German Protestants and continue to serve one of the greatest military leaders in history: the Lion of the North.
Yet, as Colonel Bretherton returns, he finds a world transformed by dark ambition and masquerading loyalties.
Friends may not be as they seem, and enemies lurk behind every corner, ready to exploit a moment of weakness.
The Lion of the North by Griff Hosker is published on 19 September, 2025. It’s the third book in his English Mercenary series.
Griff talks about his life as an author in A writer’s career.
Our round-up of over 190 historical books to look forward to in 2025 has many more suggestions for you to look at.
