A year after they were sent across the English Channel to fight the French, a motley crew of soldiers/thugs called the Essex Dogs is ready to go home. They're weary, battle-worn, and a few men lighter than they were when the arrived. But King Edward has other plans, sending his troops to capture Calais, a heavily fortified port city that is unlikely to fall quickly. As they settle in for a LONG siege, the Dogs must contend with personal demons, camp sickness, and a never-ending parade of lords who won't pay them for their work.
This is the second book in a planned trilogy (following Essex Dogs), and I didn't read the first book, as I was told this one stands alone well. And while yes, I could definitely get the feel for soldiers trapped in a stalemate situation — which is very well told — I also felt like there were gaps in the relationships and character motivations that I may have understood better if I'd read the first book. That said, if you're interested in military-focused historical fiction and want to read about something pre-20th Century, this series, set during the Hundred Years War, is probably a good option. Just make sure you read Essex Dogs before you pick up this one.
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