TV series · 2015 · BBC Two
Is The Last Kingdom based on a book?
Quick answer
Yes. The Last Kingdom is based on the book series The Saxon Stories by Bernard Cornwell (2004).
The TV series premiered in 2015 on BBC Two.
The book series behind The Last Kingdom
The Saxon Stories
Book series by Bernard Cornwell · first published 2004 · historical fiction
Novel series about history of Anglo Saxon England in 9th & 10th century.
The Saxon Stories: books in order
- The Last Kingdom (2004)
- The Pale Horseman (2005)
- The Lords of the North (2006)
- Sword Song (2007)
- The Burning Land (2009)
- Death of Kings (2011)
- The Pagan Lord (2013)
- The Empty Throne (2014)
- Warriors of the Storm (2015)
- The Flame Bearer (2016)
- War of the Wolf
- Sword of Kings
Other adaptations of The Saxon Stories
- The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die (film, 2023)
Common questions
Is The Last Kingdom based on a book?
Yes. The Last Kingdom is based on the book series The Saxon Stories by Bernard Cornwell (2004).
Who wrote the book The Last Kingdom is based on?
The Saxon Stories was written by Bernard Cornwell and first published in 2004.
Should I read the book before watching?
Start with The Last Kingdom, book 1 of The Saxon Stories. If you like knowing the full story and characters first, read it before you watch. Adaptations often change or cut plotlines, so the book is a different experience even if you've seen the TV series.
More screen adaptations of Bernard Cornwell's books
- The Winter King (TV, 2023)