This is the sequel to [b:L'Ombre du pouvoir|21417064|L'Ombre du pouvoir (Le Bâtard de Kosigan #1)|Fabien Cerutti|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1394488252s/21417064.jpg|40718297] (see my review here) and it's best to read the books in chronological order, or you will miss background information on the main character, the Bastard of Kosigan and his gang, on the secondary characters (especially in the war between England and France), and even more on the characters and events that take place in 1899.

This time the main story starts in 1340, whereas the first book started in 1339. Our mercenary, Pierre Cordwain de Kosigan, now has to find out who seeks to dethrone the King of France... and so have England take over command. Both countries aren't exactly friends, especially not with the Hundred Years' War going on in this time period.

As you can imagine, our mercenary takes on the job, but will do it his way, as he's always done. He'll follow the rules where necessary, but doesn't fear bending them to obtain important information or access to certain premises. Of course, all this researching leads him and his gang into trouble, with sometimes severe results (losing comrades), but he manages, thanks to his cunning way of dealing with opponents and certain situations, to come out of it unharmed, or as good as (if his self-healing skills can work undisturbed).

To accomplish the various missions, he has to stir up some hornets' nests, and that's when you discover what dirty games are being played by the king's entourage. Seems like more people would like to see England as sole ruler of England and France. Then there are parties that prefer to see the old religions (pagan) revived, with tbeir own customs and practices.

So, yes, for the Fantasy-aspect: there are Elves, dragons (summoned by calling upon ancient forces), etc. It was a bit strange, though, to suddenly have a dragon in the story, burning down the place. Where did it come from? Did I overlook something? Most likely not, as it's explained later how this dragon came to be.

The other story, which is linked with the Bastard's one, focuses on the research and findings with regards to what Kergaël inherited (the little box with precious content, like rubies and what not). But someone must have found out, because Kergaël ends up in hospital, fighting for his life. During his researches, malicious criminals saw easy money in what Kergaël and his friends were doing to piece together the puzzle of his heritage.

This second book is thicker than the first, as it contains much more information on Western European history. The main story takes place in the north of France (city of Lens), but also in Flanders, more specifically in Bruges and Blankenberge. Fabien Cerutti used historical information on Charlemagne, druidism, pagan mythology, the Templars, the Crusades, and more to weave and enticing, thrilling and sometimes tedious story.

You are offered bits and pieces about historical events and characters, in this way arousing your interest to look up more information about them. What makes the story tedious, in a way, is that it's very detailed: descriptions of the setting, of the actions, ... I can understand this decision from the point of view of wanting to bring the story to life, of giving the reader a first-row seat, of dragging the reader into the story. On the other hand, it puts a bit of a brake on the flow.

One other thing I didn't understand: At some point the Bastard decides to leave his sword and other arms with his mates. Shortly after, he has to fight his way forward, uses an Ogre's sword, but never seems to have his own material back with him when he leaves the place. Why not? Or when he's, once more, in the dungeon, chained, and his papers (letters he obtained in a sly way from Quiéret's office (he's the Constable of France and one of the King's best friends) - it helps when you can send one of your gang members to do the work for you) are checked against his statements. I didn't read anywhere that he took those letters with his when he escaped a little later with the help of Quiéret's daughter, Adelys (of whom we'll read more in book 3, I gather?)

Long story short: Definitely as good as the first book. Thrilling, interesting, enticing, ... but take your time with it; don't rush. History with a touch of Fantasy, but quite educational, in a fun way. Bring on [b:Le Marteau des sorcières|35612355|Le Marteau des sorcières (Le Bâtard de Kosigan, #3)|Fabien Cerutti|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1499359301s/35612355.jpg|57052633], book three.

P.s.: This time there is extra info on prices (and how they match with the Euro of today), measurements, the different hours of the day (their specific names), and some explanation of the most important characters. ( )