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Charlemagne's Cross #3
Thor's Revenge
A kingdom without a crown. A boy forsaken by his God. A warrior bent on revenge. After the bloody Battle of Jelling, Denmark’s throne lies empty and chaos reigns as Jarl’s jostle for power.
Sven survives the bloodshed only to return home to find Ribe sacked by those he trusted and Charles, a pawn in a much bigger political game, kidnapped.
Consumed by the loss of Charles, Sven is shocked by the arrival of the Abbess Hildegard, daughter of his nemesis King Louis of East Francia, who seeks the whereabouts of Charles, her son, and also the cross of Charlemagne.
But whilst others want revenge for the chaos Sven has caused, Denmark burns and Sven must stand in the shield wall one more time if he is to survive and rescue his grandson.
Outnumbered and outmaneuvered, Sven and Charles must put their fate in the hands of the gods if they ever want to see each other again.
Praise for The Charlemagne's Cross Series
'A fabulous Norse tale of family secrets, betrayal and conflict right up until the very last page - I loved it!'- MJ Porter
'An action-packed scintillating thriller. Pacy, raw, violent fayre, with a cast of characters you'll swiftly loathe or admire - you'll think you're in the shield wall' - Ross Greenwood
'5.0 out of 5 stars For fans of historic fiction you’ll love this, action packed with perfect mix of development to suit' - Reader Review
'I really can’t wait for the next book in the series, I thought it a riveting read. I’m so tired now, I couldn’t put it down until about 4am. Read it, you won’t be disappointed.' - Reader Review
'Another brilliant story by the Author! Cannot wait for the next book, each one seems to just get better and better. Brilliant story line.- - Reader Review
Sven survives the bloodshed only to return home to find Ribe sacked by those he trusted and Charles, a pawn in a much bigger political game, kidnapped.
Consumed by the loss of Charles, Sven is shocked by the arrival of the Abbess Hildegard, daughter of his nemesis King Louis of East Francia, who seeks the whereabouts of Charles, her son, and also the cross of Charlemagne.
But whilst others want revenge for the chaos Sven has caused, Denmark burns and Sven must stand in the shield wall one more time if he is to survive and rescue his grandson.
Outnumbered and outmaneuvered, Sven and Charles must put their fate in the hands of the gods if they ever want to see each other again.
Praise for The Charlemagne's Cross Series
'A fabulous Norse tale of family secrets, betrayal and conflict right up until the very last page - I loved it!'- MJ Porter
'An action-packed scintillating thriller. Pacy, raw, violent fayre, with a cast of characters you'll swiftly loathe or admire - you'll think you're in the shield wall' - Ross Greenwood
'5.0 out of 5 stars For fans of historic fiction you’ll love this, action packed with perfect mix of development to suit' - Reader Review
'I really can’t wait for the next book in the series, I thought it a riveting read. I’m so tired now, I couldn’t put it down until about 4am. Read it, you won’t be disappointed.' - Reader Review
'Another brilliant story by the Author! Cannot wait for the next book, each one seems to just get better and better. Brilliant story line.- - Reader Review
320 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2024
192 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 11, 2024
When the book starts Charles had just been kidnapped by Ivor and Thora is waking up from her grievous wound after three days of everyone thinking it could go either way. Charles‘s mom is in Rye with Father Bernard and Gerald, I just want to step away from the review and say with so many geralds in Denmark… Why oh why would Donovan Cook name one of his main characters Gerald? At this point in the review you may ask yourself where is Finn the bore? I mean he must be tearing up Denmark looking for Charles right? No after the battle when he found out Charles was gone and Thora may die he decided to start drinking again. He is a very angry man and when Charles‘s mom announced who she is and why she is there it doesn’t help Sphins mood at all and when Gerald decides to act indignant and disrespectful to Sphin things just go downhill from there. Over in the big trading town Charles is going through his own hell. When the duplicitus Franc Ren shows up Charles knows there’s something important about him but like everything having to do with the cross in his dead or not dead mother he doesn’t know why. When Iver tries to change the game plan Rin
Is more than happy to let him know the rival for the throne is dead and when I Iver acts smog as if he is next in line for royalty he’s soon find out his father is dead as well. Ren does have a deal for Ivor despite he and his father‘s mistakes and the greedy Dane agrees to it but just like the things that are going on in Rye Think soon get worse for Charles and all this happens long before King Louis even knows his daughter isn’t in West Francia. Denmark has no king and before it’s over Sphin Will lose the only leverage he had the kings daughter and the cross but just like always we know never count the man out. This book is so good it says a lot about Love a family religious beliefs how we think of those who are different from us but more than that it was a great story with action pack scenes endocringe worthy injuries and then this one it almost looks like he has lost it all but not quite. I cannot wait for the fourth book in the Charlemagne cross Siri‘s Donovan Cook has really done a great job giving a narrative to a time that has none. There is no way I could give a proper review because there is a lot going on in these books I love these stories and cannot get enough. I want to thank Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
Is more than happy to let him know the rival for the throne is dead and when I Iver acts smog as if he is next in line for royalty he’s soon find out his father is dead as well. Ren does have a deal for Ivor despite he and his father‘s mistakes and the greedy Dane agrees to it but just like the things that are going on in Rye Think soon get worse for Charles and all this happens long before King Louis even knows his daughter isn’t in West Francia. Denmark has no king and before it’s over Sphin Will lose the only leverage he had the kings daughter and the cross but just like always we know never count the man out. This book is so good it says a lot about Love a family religious beliefs how we think of those who are different from us but more than that it was a great story with action pack scenes endocringe worthy injuries and then this one it almost looks like he has lost it all but not quite. I cannot wait for the fourth book in the Charlemagne cross Siri‘s Donovan Cook has really done a great job giving a narrative to a time that has none. There is no way I could give a proper review because there is a lot going on in these books I love these stories and cannot get enough. I want to thank Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
April 20, 2024
Political games between Danes and Franks abound in Thor's Revenge, where we find some familiar names again. Young Charles has been abducted by Ivor, Thora recovers slowly from a near-fatal injury, and Sven seeks solace in the cups, drowning his sorrows. As for the Charlemagne cross – the reason for murder, betrayal, and abduction – it is missing.
Charles' mother, Abbess Hildegard, has arrived in Ribe, looking for her grandson (and the cross, obviously). But neither Thora nor Sven trust the woman who had joined Holy Orders and left her son behind. Sven has not forgiven his own son's death (Charles' father), for which he blames the East Franks, Hildegard and her ilk.
Sven and Thora keep searching for Charles, but with treacherous Franks trying to get to the boy, it's no easy feat. Will they manage to save him, alive and well? Find out in the book!
Thor's Revenge begins rather slowly, in my view. The early chapters sum up the recent action, and this slows the pace. In between these long paragraphs, however, we find intriguing action surrounding Charles, the boy everyone is after. So keep reading! Once the pace picks up, the plot unfolds, with more battles and the unavoidable injuries.
I found the Frankish plotters intriguing, as this reveals much about these Christian kings of East and West Francia (usually at each others' throats), at a time when religion was in flux. The Danes, still holding on to their ancient beliefs, are looked down upon by the seemingly superior Franks, but they aren't as well-organised as they'd like to be, and both sides get their share of comeuppance. That's an aspect of the novel that I really enjoyed.
There are, however, some editorial issues with the novel, and I hope the published version is improved. For example, I found the repeated reference to Hildegard as 'Charles' mother' (from Sven's or Thora's point of view) tiring. Using her name would have added immediacy, and the flow of the narrative would have been improved. There are also quite a few repeats within a paragraph or two of each other, all through the novel – something the editor should have noticed.
But overall, Thor's Revenge is an enjoyable adventure full of intrigues, battles, losses and gains, with wonderfully flawed main characters and a clever plot, which is hopefully due to be resolved in Book 4 of the series. I'm looking forward to reading it.
Fans of Viking and early medieval fiction will enjoy this riveting chase for the elusive Charlemagne's Cross.
Charles' mother, Abbess Hildegard, has arrived in Ribe, looking for her grandson (and the cross, obviously). But neither Thora nor Sven trust the woman who had joined Holy Orders and left her son behind. Sven has not forgiven his own son's death (Charles' father), for which he blames the East Franks, Hildegard and her ilk.
Sven and Thora keep searching for Charles, but with treacherous Franks trying to get to the boy, it's no easy feat. Will they manage to save him, alive and well? Find out in the book!
Thor's Revenge begins rather slowly, in my view. The early chapters sum up the recent action, and this slows the pace. In between these long paragraphs, however, we find intriguing action surrounding Charles, the boy everyone is after. So keep reading! Once the pace picks up, the plot unfolds, with more battles and the unavoidable injuries.
I found the Frankish plotters intriguing, as this reveals much about these Christian kings of East and West Francia (usually at each others' throats), at a time when religion was in flux. The Danes, still holding on to their ancient beliefs, are looked down upon by the seemingly superior Franks, but they aren't as well-organised as they'd like to be, and both sides get their share of comeuppance. That's an aspect of the novel that I really enjoyed.
There are, however, some editorial issues with the novel, and I hope the published version is improved. For example, I found the repeated reference to Hildegard as 'Charles' mother' (from Sven's or Thora's point of view) tiring. Using her name would have added immediacy, and the flow of the narrative would have been improved. There are also quite a few repeats within a paragraph or two of each other, all through the novel – something the editor should have noticed.
But overall, Thor's Revenge is an enjoyable adventure full of intrigues, battles, losses and gains, with wonderfully flawed main characters and a clever plot, which is hopefully due to be resolved in Book 4 of the series. I'm looking forward to reading it.
Fans of Viking and early medieval fiction will enjoy this riveting chase for the elusive Charlemagne's Cross.
April 20, 2024
We are back with Charles and Sven the Boar..
Sven returns home after a fierce battle.. you’d think surviving a battle is something to celebrate but not this time… many many many men died and Denmark no longer has a King… this has left bands of disbanded and leaderless warriors ransacking Denmark…
And that’s only part of Sven’s trouble… he learned that his grandson Charles has been taken..Charles is Sven’s redemption in life so his loss breaks the man but at least this time he has people around him to try and knock some sense into him.
His anger soon returns when Abbess Hildegard arrives and pushes him a little too far… there’s a blast from the past that I’ll not spoil but by god I felt the fury pouring of Sven… Abbess Hildegard who we learn is Charles mother so we finally get to learn more about why Charles has been brought up to believe she was dead…I could only imagine how this felt for Charles as he learns the truth about himself.. who he really is.
I really enjoyed that we also learned more about the cross that Charles has been carrying ever since his father’s murder.. Charlemagne’s Cross… of which, if the stories are believed has the power to reunite Francia..
What really makes this instalment shine is the character development, not only do we meet and get to know new characters we see some established characters grow, Thora, Rollo and Sven all have a greater depth added to them while they deal with the aftermath of the battle and Charles kidnap.
Charles’ himself has some very big things to deal with.. being kidnapped… the deaths that have occurred to keep him safe.. it becomes his internal struggle and we see his faith in god shaken…
Plot wise… oh wow… it develops at a fast pace but nothing is really rushed or forced…but by god there’s a lot crammed in and credit to the author that it’s been done in such a well balanced way allowing the reader to keep up the events…and the ending!!! Oh my.. I need more!!
The Charlemagne’s Cross series has quick become a firm favourite!
Sven returns home after a fierce battle.. you’d think surviving a battle is something to celebrate but not this time… many many many men died and Denmark no longer has a King… this has left bands of disbanded and leaderless warriors ransacking Denmark…
And that’s only part of Sven’s trouble… he learned that his grandson Charles has been taken..Charles is Sven’s redemption in life so his loss breaks the man but at least this time he has people around him to try and knock some sense into him.
His anger soon returns when Abbess Hildegard arrives and pushes him a little too far… there’s a blast from the past that I’ll not spoil but by god I felt the fury pouring of Sven… Abbess Hildegard who we learn is Charles mother so we finally get to learn more about why Charles has been brought up to believe she was dead…I could only imagine how this felt for Charles as he learns the truth about himself.. who he really is.
I really enjoyed that we also learned more about the cross that Charles has been carrying ever since his father’s murder.. Charlemagne’s Cross… of which, if the stories are believed has the power to reunite Francia..
What really makes this instalment shine is the character development, not only do we meet and get to know new characters we see some established characters grow, Thora, Rollo and Sven all have a greater depth added to them while they deal with the aftermath of the battle and Charles kidnap.
Charles’ himself has some very big things to deal with.. being kidnapped… the deaths that have occurred to keep him safe.. it becomes his internal struggle and we see his faith in god shaken…
Plot wise… oh wow… it develops at a fast pace but nothing is really rushed or forced…but by god there’s a lot crammed in and credit to the author that it’s been done in such a well balanced way allowing the reader to keep up the events…and the ending!!! Oh my.. I need more!!
The Charlemagne’s Cross series has quick become a firm favourite!
February 21, 2024
Thor's Revenge is the third book in the Charlemagne's Cross series by Donovan Cook. I have read the previous two books.
Thor's Revenge begins immediately after the events of the previous book, with Sven the Boar recovering from the great battle. At the same time, conspiracy and secrets continue to swirl around him and his grandson, Charles.
In book 3, we learn more answers to the secrets and also meet a few new characters who have previously been alluded to but not 'seen' on stage, as it were.
The many threads take a while to get into, but when I did, I flew through the story, really enjoying how well they connect. I also greatly enjoy the 'light' touch adopted for the competing religions of paganism and Christianity. Questions are asked by those of both faiths, especially Sven and Charles, who can perhaps see that not everything is as black and white as might be believed. The conniving members of the royal family in East and West Frankia add a layer of 'sophisticated' conspiracy above that of the more 'immediate' concerns of Sven and Charles.
There are also several battles and fights, and I'm looking forward to Book 4, where I hope we may find some resolution for Sven and Charles.
It is a fine addition to the series that develops depth as the story progresses and has an ending that makes me desperate to read more. So, get on with it Donovan:)
Fans of the genre will delight in the continuing tale of Sven the Boar and Charles.
Thor's Revenge begins immediately after the events of the previous book, with Sven the Boar recovering from the great battle. At the same time, conspiracy and secrets continue to swirl around him and his grandson, Charles.
In book 3, we learn more answers to the secrets and also meet a few new characters who have previously been alluded to but not 'seen' on stage, as it were.
The many threads take a while to get into, but when I did, I flew through the story, really enjoying how well they connect. I also greatly enjoy the 'light' touch adopted for the competing religions of paganism and Christianity. Questions are asked by those of both faiths, especially Sven and Charles, who can perhaps see that not everything is as black and white as might be believed. The conniving members of the royal family in East and West Frankia add a layer of 'sophisticated' conspiracy above that of the more 'immediate' concerns of Sven and Charles.
There are also several battles and fights, and I'm looking forward to Book 4, where I hope we may find some resolution for Sven and Charles.
It is a fine addition to the series that develops depth as the story progresses and has an ending that makes me desperate to read more. So, get on with it Donovan:)
Fans of the genre will delight in the continuing tale of Sven the Boar and Charles.
March 7, 2024
Having read the first two books in The Charlemagne’s Cross series, I was so excited for the third instalment, and it has not disappointed!
Picking up from the ending of the second book, Loki’s Deceit, we launch straight into the events of the aftermath of battle and loss.
Anyone who reads my reviews knows I hate spoilers, so I won’t ruin it, but I thoroughly enjoyed seeing some old characters back and the introduction of some new faces! This is another fast-paced book that delivers battles, loss, and some humour
Donovan Cook is brilliant at setting the scene, so you can almost see the fighting take place in front of you. I also very much like how some of the characters have developed throughout the series, Sven being my favourite when I wasn’t sure I liked him in the first book. I am a big fan of series where the characters grow, and I definitely feel this is one of those series.
I intended to take my time reading this, but it’s impossible! I could not put it down, I had to know what happens next. If you are looking for historical fiction with brilliant characters, fantastic battle scenes, and an excellent storyline, I highly recommend this series.
Thank you to Donovan Cook for another excellent series of events in the company of Sven and Charles, i cannot wait for the next instalment!
Picking up from the ending of the second book, Loki’s Deceit, we launch straight into the events of the aftermath of battle and loss.
Anyone who reads my reviews knows I hate spoilers, so I won’t ruin it, but I thoroughly enjoyed seeing some old characters back and the introduction of some new faces! This is another fast-paced book that delivers battles, loss, and some humour
Donovan Cook is brilliant at setting the scene, so you can almost see the fighting take place in front of you. I also very much like how some of the characters have developed throughout the series, Sven being my favourite when I wasn’t sure I liked him in the first book. I am a big fan of series where the characters grow, and I definitely feel this is one of those series.
I intended to take my time reading this, but it’s impossible! I could not put it down, I had to know what happens next. If you are looking for historical fiction with brilliant characters, fantastic battle scenes, and an excellent storyline, I highly recommend this series.
Thank you to Donovan Cook for another excellent series of events in the company of Sven and Charles, i cannot wait for the next instalment!
February 29, 2024
Reader's interested in Norse-Viking type personas of Denmark may well be interested in this saga. It depicts fierce warriors of yesteryears in constant battle over land, power and religion - or lack of it and in dependance upon gods or God, as the case may be. Battles being between West & East Francia and Denmark.
It took a few chapters to build up enthusiasm for the narrative for me as there is much blood, gut and gore sort of lore that just is not my cup of tea. Eventually, though, the mystery surrounding Charles and a certain cross got the curiosity juices flowing. Historical fiction although loosely wrapped, does get my attention. Other readers may well have greater appreciation overall in the third book in the Charlemagne Cross series. I believe a fourth is forthcoming.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
February 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.
It took a few chapters to build up enthusiasm for the narrative for me as there is much blood, gut and gore sort of lore that just is not my cup of tea. Eventually, though, the mystery surrounding Charles and a certain cross got the curiosity juices flowing. Historical fiction although loosely wrapped, does get my attention. Other readers may well have greater appreciation overall in the third book in the Charlemagne Cross series. I believe a fourth is forthcoming.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
February 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.
March 22, 2024
Thursday revenge 3rd book in the Charlemagne's coss series. A great read full of traitorous deeds.
Great story it continues on from book two. An enjoyable pacy read and something of a page turner. The book is well researched and describes effortlessly the life and times of a Viking warrior, their beliefs and values. The story is based on some actual historical events and mentions historical characters who actually existed, which serve to add context for the story as it unfolds.
The main characters, Charles, Seven the boar, and Thora, burn as bright as ever, each having to accept or make decisions in response to the actions of others. The Viking world is pictured in both its domesticity at home and in battles with enemy Jarls and kings of foreign lands.
It is very enjoyable and recommended to those readers who enjoy reading about Viking times.
Great story it continues on from book two. An enjoyable pacy read and something of a page turner. The book is well researched and describes effortlessly the life and times of a Viking warrior, their beliefs and values. The story is based on some actual historical events and mentions historical characters who actually existed, which serve to add context for the story as it unfolds.
The main characters, Charles, Seven the boar, and Thora, burn as bright as ever, each having to accept or make decisions in response to the actions of others. The Viking world is pictured in both its domesticity at home and in battles with enemy Jarls and kings of foreign lands.
It is very enjoyable and recommended to those readers who enjoy reading about Viking times.
February 29, 2024
Thor's Revenge picks up where the previous book left off and Thora is just waking up from her injuries to come to terms with the fact that Charles has been kidnapped. Thora and Sven must work and battle to save Charles. I enjoyed how the characters develop in this book and we get a deeper understanding of their pasts .Thora is the best as she is a kind but leave no prisoners kind of gal. The brutal battles continue with quite a few injured in this book. The book ends on a cliffhanger which has me enthusiastically waiting for the next book. Donovan Cook I believe has a talent for leaving you just wanting more. The story took me on a heart pumping adventure that I didn't want to end. I read the book in one sitting and woke up very tired.
March 13, 2024
Ended to quick again
Another fantastic instalment in the series. Charles character has seemed to have matured a little so you don't get annoyed as much by the 'pious sooky bable', which is good but also understandable given the times it is based in. The rest of the book keeps you glued to the pages with plenty of twist, turns, violence and epic battle. The only thing I didn't like was the very sudden ending. Now the long wait begins again for the next book.
Another fantastic instalment in the series. Charles character has seemed to have matured a little so you don't get annoyed as much by the 'pious sooky bable', which is good but also understandable given the times it is based in. The rest of the book keeps you glued to the pages with plenty of twist, turns, violence and epic battle. The only thing I didn't like was the very sudden ending. Now the long wait begins again for the next book.
April 8, 2024
Another great book
This is another excellent book from Mr. Cook. It's not as action packed as previous novels. It feels like it's setting up for an explosion of action and intrigue. Still an amazing book. I got to the end in a blink of an eye it seemed like. I cannot wait for the next one!
This is another excellent book from Mr. Cook. It's not as action packed as previous novels. It feels like it's setting up for an explosion of action and intrigue. Still an amazing book. I got to the end in a blink of an eye it seemed like. I cannot wait for the next one!
January 4, 2025
Cook's third book is chock full of action and unexpected twists that kept me turning page after page. Battles are intense, and the emotional moments hit me hard. It is another fantastic tale that fans of the series will enjoy. I couldn't put it down and can't wait to see what comes in the series' final book
January 9, 2026
I thought this was a trilogy and enjoyed the first two books so was looking forward to completing the series. Imagine my disappointment when there was no real ending or conclusion, just more of the same filler of battles and journeys - don’t think I can be bothered to continue with more instalments after this one
May 21, 2024
Exciting action
Great characters and as good battle descriptions as I have ever read. The scenes flow effortlessly to further the plot so that the words are just gobbled and digested leaving the reader wanting more. Best Viking novel I have ever read.
Great characters and as good battle descriptions as I have ever read. The scenes flow effortlessly to further the plot so that the words are just gobbled and digested leaving the reader wanting more. Best Viking novel I have ever read.
December 10, 2024
Fantastic Story🙂
I can't even tell you how much the story grows, it reminds me of The Lord of The Rings. Every time I think I have the plots and story line figured out there is a twist. I enjoyed this book emensily and am looking forward to reading the next book in this series
I can't even tell you how much the story grows, it reminds me of The Lord of The Rings. Every time I think I have the plots and story line figured out there is a twist. I enjoyed this book emensily and am looking forward to reading the next book in this series
May 19, 2025
so may events came one after another.
Nothing predictable during such a leaderless fragile time. Now I am a huge fan of Donovan Cook. If you like Bernard Cornwell books then you will like his books too.
Nothing predictable during such a leaderless fragile time. Now I am a huge fan of Donovan Cook. If you like Bernard Cornwell books then you will like his books too.
June 27, 2025
Great series.
The Charlemagne's Cross series is incredible! Highly recommended. Big action. Battles, intrigue, betrayal. Set in an interesting time and and area not often used in historical fiction.
The Charlemagne's Cross series is incredible! Highly recommended. Big action. Battles, intrigue, betrayal. Set in an interesting time and and area not often used in historical fiction.
March 4, 2024
I absolutely love this series ! I read lots of these types of books And this series has gone to the top of my list . I love the cantankerous Sven and the shield maiden Thora
June 7, 2024
Great characters, good story, fine reading.
July 24, 2024
I am enjoying this series
I am on a Viking kick lately. I have read the first 3 books in this series and have enjoyed them.
I am on a Viking kick lately. I have read the first 3 books in this series and have enjoyed them.
September 30, 2024
I found this really hard work: It's long, wordy, paceless.
December 15, 2024
Book 4 please
Great continuation from book 2 , on to book 4 .Really enjoyable read with great battles interesting characters and plots
Great continuation from book 2 , on to book 4 .Really enjoyable read with great battles interesting characters and plots
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April 6, 2025Really good read....but not finished yet.
But wait, there more! The story continues in the next book. Very much Looking forward to (hopefully) the last installment.
But wait, there more! The story continues in the next book. Very much Looking forward to (hopefully) the last installment.
July 25, 2025
Outstanding series.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews