The First Kingdom

An investigation of the obscure centuries that followed the departure of the Romans from Britain.

Not just a valuable book, but a distinctive one as well

An engagingly written exploration of these 'fragments', synthesising archaeological and historical research from the last four decades, and applying a critical eye to traditional narratives passed down by medieval chroniclers and later accounts

A remarkable tapestry in which are woven the diverse threads of archaeology, topography, folklore, linguistics, and culture to create a panorama of Early Medieval Britain and its place in the context of European history

'A worthy synthesis of what little we know' Gerard de Groot, The Times .

A fascinating picture of Britain's new-found independence

He writes with empathy and sensitivity in this distinctive and valuable book

Max Adams is a writer, archaeologist and woodsman whose work explores themes of landscape, knowledge and human connectedness with the earth. He is the author of Admiral Collingwood , Aelfred's Britain , Trees of Life , the bestselling The King in the North and In the Land of Giants . He has lived and worked in the North-East of England since 1993.

Max Adams is a writer, archaeologist and woodsman whose work explores themes of landscape, knowledge and human connectedness with the earth. He is the author of Admiral Collingwood , Aelfred's Britain , Trees of Life , the bestselling The King in the North and In the Land of Giants . He has lived and worked in the North-East of England since 1993.