You have in your hands an explosive, skilfully constructed novel about men bound by the bonds of brotherhood, about friendship, chivalry and the cruelty of great kings. July, 1346. Ten experienced soldiers cross the English waters and land off the coast of Normandy. They call themselves the Essex Hounds because most of them were born in Essex. This summer, the brave men serve as swords and bows to King Edward III, who has decided to invade France. They sleep on the ground, wear sweat-soaked clothes, and raid and plunder. War is their trade. Gold, scrolls of cloth and barrels of wine are their trophies. What drives these men to fight? Is it animal fear or a thirst for adventure? Perhaps it's both. But when they fight, they fight for each other. And ahead of them lies one of the bloodiest battles in history, which will change the course of the Hundred Years' War - the Battle of Crécy.