The Retreat

De: Conor Kostick

Narrado por: Thomas Feige

A young knight, a mysterious dark forest, life and death choices.

Guibert of Rocadamor is returning from a failed expedition to the Holy Land. One of only a handful of knights in this army, Guibert is a young noble who wants nothing more than to become a legendary hero whom people will sing songs about. But how can he choose between the rival groups among the remnants of the army who vie for his support? As they draw closer to the safety of the French border, the question of who to stand with becomes a matter of life or death.

The best-selling author of Epic, Conor Kostick teaches medieval history at Trinity College Dublin.

©2020 Conor Kostick (P)2022 Conor Kostick

Reseñas de la Crítica

"Kostick’s background as a historian informs the authenticity and detail of the story, from the small personal habits of the characters to the wider European setting." (Books Ireland Magazine)

Not just another Knight's Tale

Narrated by the talented Thomas Feige, this audiobook weaves a captivating tale of a young knight's journey through a mysterious and perilous forest, where life and death choices shape his destiny. With its vivid storytelling and rich historical backdrop, this audiobook is a true masterpiece that will leave you spellbound from start to finish.

Before delving into the intricate details of this extraordinary audiobook, it's worth noting that Conor Kostick, the best-selling author of "Epic," is not only a masterful storyteller but also a historian who teaches medieval history at Trinity College Dublin. This is a crucial point to emphasize because it underscores the depth of historical knowledge and authenticity that permeates "The Retreat." Kostick's expertise in medieval history shines through, enhancing the overall experience for listeners.

At its core, "The Retreat" is a tale of morality and valor. The story revolves around Guibert of Rocadamor, a young and noble knight who dreams of becoming a legendary hero, a figure whose feats would be sung about for generations. Guibert's character arc is nothing short of exceptional. He starts as a brave yet inexperienced warrior who harbors romantic notions of heroic combat but soon comes face to face with the harsh realities of war.

Guibert's transformation is nothing short of remarkable. As he navigates the treacherous path through the dark and mysterious forest, listeners witness his growth and development. It's a visceral journey as he grapples with the choices that shape not only his fate but also the fate of those around him. The audiobook masterfully portrays the inner turmoil and external challenges that young Guibert faces as he strives to survive and maintain his will to live.

One of the standout aspects of "The Retreat" is the lifelike interactions between Guibert and his peers. The characters are beautifully drawn, their personalities distinct and memorable. Guibert's decisions, often agonizing and morally charged, take a toll on him as he navigates the complex web of young love, death, dishonor, savagery, and desperation. These interactions and relationships add depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it a truly immersive experience for listeners.

The backdrop against which this story unfolds is a world filled with peril and uncertainty. The remnants of a failed expedition to the Holy Land find themselves on a long Roman road that cuts through an ancient forest, a path that seems to lead straight to Hades. As rival factions within the remnants vie for Guibert's support, the audiobook skillfully builds tension and suspense. The ever-present threat of danger, amplified by the encroachment of legions from every European king, keeps listeners on the edge of their seats throughout the journey out of the forest.

Everything in "The Retreat" is expertly crafted and thought out. Conor Kostick's storytelling prowess shines as he creates a gripping page-turner that is impossible to put down. The character development of the young knight, Guibert, is particularly powerful. From his idealistic dreams to the harsh realities of war, the audiobook portrays his evolution with authenticity and depth.

Moreover, "The Retreat" delves into the bloodiness of battle, the greed and cruelty of people, and the breaking down of class barriers. These elements come together to shape the characters within the book and add layers of complexity to the narrative. It's a story that explores the human condition in the face of adversity, and it does so brilliantly.

While Thomas Feige's narration is generally solid, there is one aspect that warrants mentioning. Some listeners may find his pacing and cadence to be slower than expected, which can be slightly distracting. However, this minor drawback does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the audiobook.

Before I listened to the book, I noted that someone had drawn a parallel between "The Retreat" and Kazuo Ishiguro's "The Buried Giant." I don't see it. In Ishiguro's novel, an elderly couple embarks on a journey in a post-Arthurian England where long-term memories are elusive. While "The Buried Giant" explores themes of memory and identity, "The Retreat" delves into the transformation of a young knight's ideals in the crucible of war. Both novels offer readers profound reflections on human nature and the consequences of choices made in times of strife.

If you ask me, there really is an intriguing literary parallel to "The Retreat" in the classic work titled "The Boy Knight: A Tale Of The Crusade" (1889), authored by G.A. Henty and George Alfred Henty. This narrative treads a remarkably similar path as it delves into the life-altering experiences of a young man exposed to the tumultuous era of the Crusades. Set against the backdrop of the Crusades, the story unfolds the captivating adventures of a spirited English lad named Cuthbert. Driven by an unwavering determination to prove himself as a valorous knight, Cuthbert embarks on a transformative journey to the Holy Land in the service of Richard the Lionheart's army.

Cuthbert's character is a beacon of bravery and audacity, a young soul committed to demonstrating his mettle on the battlefield. The audiobook meticulously chronicles his perilous odyssey through the Holy Land, fraught with a plethora of challenges and dangers that put his courage and honor to the test. Along the way, Cuthbert's path is intertwined with treacherous adversaries, newfound companions, and invaluable lessons in courage, honor, and loyalty. The narrative is richly adorned with thrilling battles, audacious rescues, and exhilarating escapades that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, engrossed in the heart-pounding action.

Beyond the gripping storyline, "The Boy Knight" provides readers with a captivating glimpse into the historical tapestry of the time. It intricately explores the cultural practices and historical events of the era, immersing readers in the vibrant tapestry of medieval life. Moreover, the audiobook delves into the profound religious and political tensions that fueled the Crusades, offering a thought-provoking examination of the forces that shaped this pivotal period in history.

Another noteworthy work that aligns with the theme of young knights navigating the challenges of a crusading era is "Winning His Spurs" by G.A. Henty, featuring a young protagonist named Cuthbert. These literary parallels underscore the enduring popularity and resonance of the concept—stories of youthful courage, self-discovery, and heroism set against the backdrop of the Crusades have consistently captivated readers and continue to do so. The enduring appeal of such narratives attests to their ability to transport us to bygone eras, where valor and honor were tested in the crucible of history.

"The Retreat" by Conor Kostick, narrated by Thomas Feige, is an audiobook that deserves every accolade it receives. It offers listeners a gripping and immersive journey through a world filled with moral dilemmas, valor, and the harsh realities of war. Guibert of Rocadamor's character development is masterfully portrayed, and the lifelike interactions between characters breathe life into the narrative.

This audiobook is a testament to Conor Kostick's historical expertise, as he effortlessly transports listeners to a medieval world filled with danger and uncertainty. Despite a minor quibble with pacing, Thomas Feige's narration complements the story well.

"The Retreat" is a work of literary artistry that will linger in your thoughts long after the final chapter. It is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates historical fiction, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. Conor Kostick has crafted a masterpiece that will stand the test of time, much like the legendary heroes Guibert aspires to become.