Age of Iron

Watson’s Iron Age trilogy kicks off in the relatively uncharted period before Britain was invaded by the Romans, circa 61 B.C.E. The land is populated by strapping warriors, power-hungry kings, and enigmatic druids, all battling for survival and supremacy. Dug Sealskinner, past his prime at 40, is still playing mercenary when he’d rather be settled down with a family. Lowa Flynn is a powerful archer in service to the cunning, ambitious King Zadar, who intends to conquer Britain, one village at a time. After Dug flees a disastrous battle and Lowa is betrayed by Zadar, the two become reluctant allies and traveling companions, soon adopting the plan of killing Zadar to avenge Lowa’s slain sisters in arms. They’re joined by an inexperienced druid and a fast-talking girl, and must face an entire army if they want to succeed. Watson’s tale is gore soaked and profanity laden—full of visceral combat and earthy humor, and laced with subtle magic. The blend of historical accuracy and authorial liberties suggests an old-school sword-and-sorcery epic, though with some clearly modern sensibilities thrown in for good measure. Agent: Angharad Kowal, Writers House U.K. (Sept.)