This book serves two valuable historical purposes - first to remind us how little we actually know about some of the events of this period, especially the early conquest period, and second to remind us how big an element chance played in the rise and fall of the various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, the eventual unification of England and the various eleventh century conquests. It is also an entertaining read, taking us through nearly seven hundred years of alternative histories at a rapid pace.

History of War website

The author explores the various decision points in a fascinating period of British history.

Forces Pension Society

The author is clearly knowledgeable about the subject matter.

Medieval Warfare Magazine

If this was the only book you read on the Anglo-Saxon age then you would come away with a sound knowledge of the period and with some interesting ideas to raise in debate with friends – such as “if Harold II had won the battle of Hastings, who would have succeeded him?” and “could Northumbria, with a run of good luck, have conquered the whole of England”.

Hexham Local History Society

Timothy Venning is a historian who is fascinated by 'what ifs' and near misses, by those moments when events hung in the balance, and he seeks to explore all the alternatives. This book is part of a series that shows just how many turning points there have been in British history. In The Anglo Saxon Age, Venning looks at the establishment of the early English kingdoms, with the arrival of Germanic tribes in a country where Roman rule had collapsed. The book is full of fascinating arguments and alternatives and ideal for anyone who sees history as a source of intelligent argument.

The Good Book Guide

His (the author's) speculation is interesting, enjoyable and in parts persuasive. This is a book that may encourage some heated debate, some disbelief and some enthusiastic followers.

Firetrench Reviews