Raven Lord

The Last Viking #2

by J.C. Duncan

Mercenary. Exile. Warlord. At the edge of the world, the clouds of war are gathering… 1034AD

Cast out from the Kyivan Rus, Harald Sigurdsson’s quest for fame and fortune takes him to the far reaches of Europe; the lands of the Eastern Roman empire.

The empire is dying the slow death of decay and corruption. In desperation to fend off a myriad of foes, the emperor turns to the legendary Varangian guard for salvation. These deadly warriors from the far north, famed for their fearsome steel and battle skill, have become the empire's greatest protectors.

From the golden gate of Constantinople to the holy waters of the river Jordan, Harald will march with the emperor's finest. Joining their ranks promises him all the gold and glory he can desire, if only he can survive the desperate battles, the hostile land, and the ruthless ambition of a vengeful queen.

The fascinating next book in the extraordinary tale of Harald Hardrada. Perfect for fans of Matthew Harffy, Peter Gibbons, Bernard Cornwell and Christian Cameron

Praise for JC Duncan

'Harald Hardrada as you've never seen him before! A fantastic story written by a fantastic author' - Donovan Cook

"Immersive and impeccably researched, JC Duncan brings Harald Hardrada's epic journey to life with gripping authenticity." - Richard Cullen

'A fresh, vibrant take on perhaps that most Viking of all Vikings, Harald Hardrada. Bloody, epic and full of detail, Duncan paints a vivid picture of Harald’s early life, as he battles his way into legend' - Matthew Harffy

'The gripping tale of the last great viking, Harold Hardrada, told in compelling style.' - Tim Hodkinson

'An engrossing, epic tale of Harald Hardrada's early years, brimming with historical detail and brave daring do. This is the story of a man who will become a legend, told lovingly through the eyes of one of his loyal followers and sure to delight readers.' - MJ Porter

Genres: Audiobook, Historical Fiction

352 pages, Paperback

Published March 22, 2024

About the author

James C Duncan is a debut author fascinated with history and fantasy. He writes historical fantasy/fiction based on our world, but in an alternate timeline, past, present or future, where each book or series asks and tries to answer a question of 'What if?' His first series 'The Light of the North saga', asks the question 'What if the Norse didn't convert to Christianity, and instead the Viking raids continued.' And posits the answer, which you will have to read the book to find out! James does not create new worlds, he messes with the history and future of ours, grounded in our own history and the laws of our universe, but tweaked in events and often adding a soft sprinkling of the divine or fantastical, resulting in relatable historical and future fantasy.

Upcoming books include the questions:

'What if the black death was actually a coverup of something much, much worse.' An alternate history of the time of the black death, based in southern Europe and the Middle East.

'What if the human race develops a race of gene engineered worker drones, but they are turned against us.' A post apocalyptic fiction set in the 22nd century in Poland and Hungary

James is a professional engineer, and splits his spare time writing, reading, and being an amateur bladesmith.

Reviews

[Shane Findlay · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the book raven lord which is the second book about the exiled Harold and his band of Brothers Eric is still in the hall telling his tails of achievement and even of embarrassment we hear about prince Harrells fight with a Unick, his disillusionment with a woman and his disbelief after almost being over run in Jerusalem while defending the Emperor‘s sister Theodora. At first glance it seems the main story is Harrell and what he did while trying to gain gold in the ability to go back and become king and his best friend and right hand man Eric telling the story is just an aside but we learn not everyone thinks Eric is just a congenial old man telling the woes of his day, oneGerald in attendance think he may have ulterior motives. When reading these warrior stories I get so excited during the battle scenes but in this book what I enjoyed the most is seeing how Harold is going to get his band of warriors out of a no-win situation because I do believe emperor Michael was right he has an uncanny knack for survival. I suck at riding reviews so trust me when I say there is way more happening in this book and I will once again say I have never read a book by JC Duncan before this series but I am definitely going to dive headfirst into their other books. If you Love authentic Nordic warrior books the you definitely love raven Lord by JC Duncan it is a great book about the exiled group of warriors the dream of the day they can return and make Harold the new king. I want to thank Boldwood Books and Net Galley for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

[Sumit · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘𝙒𝙝𝙮? 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙚𝙡 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙛𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡, 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙩. 𝙃𝙚 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙡𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙘𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙢𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡 𝙢𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚. 𝙃𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖 𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙢𝙚, 𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮. 𝘼 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙚, 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙚.’

👑Raven Lord by J.C. Duncan - 2nd in The Last Viking series - is the remarkable story of young Harald Sigurdsson's incredible journey to become Hardrada- The Hard Ruler & The Last Viking.



1034 AD. After escaping the land of Kyivan Rus, Harald, and his blood-marked warband come to the court of the Eastern Roman Empire, where they join the legendary Varangian guard who are solely responsible for the protection of the sovereign. But when both the sovereigns stand against each other, Harald will find himself entwined in the swirl of plots, murders, and intrigue that will give him both a new swath of opportunities and a fearsome array of threats. To return home to claim the Norwegian throne, he will not only have to prosper but also survive there.

‘𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧, 𝙮𝙚𝙨, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙛𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚. 𝙉𝙤, 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙮𝙘𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚, 𝙚𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙙.’

👑Once again Duncan weaves an intricate story that takes us on an epic journey from the court of Constantinople to the holy city of Jerusalem. His vivid descriptions were so enthralling I couldn't differentiate fact from fiction. Hats off to his love for history and writing skills that he so beautifully brings the story to life and we get to know so much about the Byzantine Empire in a fun way that I'm totally overwhelmed

👑Similar to the previous book, the story is told by Eric, a former warrior of Harald's warband, through whose eye we explored Harald's time in the legendary Varangian guard and his rise to power in the Byzantine court. The fast-paced gripping narrative, numerous cinematic battle scenes, and the complex real cast of characters keep me turning on the pages from start to end. I never feel bored at all.

👑The characterization of Harald as a charismatic general who has an uncanny knack for survival even in no-win situations was commendable and kept me on the edge of my seat. I also enjoyed reading about his lover Maria and her patron Theodora, Theodra's sister Empress Zoe, and the new emperor Michael - the three great rival factions, each of whom trying to manipulate and murder their way into sole power.

👑I found the ending fitting and satisfactory, where Harald uses his cunning to successfully bring the sovereigns on a compromised truce. I also like the hints that have been dropped in the climax hinting at the future events of the next book, which raised my expectation level threefold.

Overall it was a fascinating read and I'm hooked for the next book. Perfect for fans of Matthew Harffy, Peter Gibbons, and Bernard Cornwell. Highly recommended.

𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)

[English · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second book in the series just as good if not better than the first. A new adventure featuring Harald Hardrada (yes that Harald) before he became a King serving among the Varangian Guard. This time he goes back to the roots of the Varangians, serving the Byzantine royal family, and goes on an adventure across Byzantium and the Holy Land in the service of an Empress.

Raven Lord was a very enjoyable historical novel. (Language warning for some readers).

Thanks to the publisher for approving my request for this novel on Netgalley. All opinions are freely given and my own.

[David Baird · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the things I loved about the previous book in the series was the style of the writing . I love history but I always found text books hard to wrap my head around.. I need it presented in a different way and that’s exactly what JC Duncan does..he adds the excitement and makes it come to life, and that buzz is what makes you want to learn more.

Raven Lord picks up after the events of the previous book Warrior Prince and I loved the preface added by the author. There’s a lot to take in when it comes to history so it was great to have a rundown before starting the next instalment, this allows for a quick refresh if you read the previous book but would also allow someone to read this as a standalone as it sets the scene perfectly for new readers.

Harald’s tale is an amazing one but I feel what makes it more amazing is how the author presents it.. we all know Harald must have been a strong and influential man to become the legend he is but it’s the ensemble cast in Raven Lord that brings life to that.. it’s the way his men act.. the awe they have when talking about him, it really makes you understand what kind of man Harald must have been to garner the respect of the men who fought with him.

With any book like this it’s all in the detail..What JC Duncan shows is his time and commitment to that detail.. the setting.. the changing landscape of the world..locations, people, small details like food, clothes.. even down to the lines on their faces… everything is designed to put you right there on the bench next to these men.

I’m a fan of history but what I love about the way it’s presented in such a book like this is the added excitement and I loved reading the historical note where you get down to some real nitty gritty and it was fascinating to learn that Harald’s adventures were even documented in some Byzantine works. I never learnt about the The Byzantine Empire in school.. never even heard of them until I started reading books myself and the more I do the more I’m in awe of them.

I’m not going to spoil the events of the book but what I will say is that sometimes the real interesting bits of history are glossed over.. well that’s how I feel anyway… I never had any Idea Harald’s life spanned so much.. how much that man did in his life… You can really start you understand how imposing this man must have been. Harald is known for 1066.. but there’s so much more to the man.. I had an indifference to the man prior to reading this series… but now I think even I would have followed such a man.. wow.

Plot wise I think Harald clearly steals the show.. it’s his tale but credit really does need to go to the author for bringing events to life, to give the reader something they’ve not had before. Throughout I could help but feel the love the author must have for the subject themselves and the time commitment they must have but it in write such a details tale.

JC Duncan stimulates the readers mind.. opens you up to learning and reminds us how fascinating history is!

[Cathie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raven Lord begins where the first book in the series, Warrior Prince, ended, with Harald and his group of men seeking new adventures. The narrative style remains the same, so we can hear about Harald's exploits through Eric, his trusted man.

Harald and his men head for the famed city of Miklagard, commonly known as Constantinople, capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, to offer their services in the Varangian guard (a guard made up of Norse mercenaries protecting the imperial family). But if Harald thought politics in the Kyivan Rus were tiring, the imperial household in Constantinople could beat any of his expectations.

As Emperor Michael and Empress Zoe manage to endanger their fragile empire with their conflicting plots, Harald and his men – told through the eyes of his trusty sidekick, Eric (like in Warrior Prince), must do their utmost to defend the vast territory against enemies. But he can do little to defend himself from the guiles of a Byzantine noblewoman, Maria, and this proves to be his weak spot that leads him, and others, into danger.

Still a young man of barely 20, Harald is already a seasoned warrior and mercenary, and his actions and attitude reflect this. His isn't an easy life in a safe castle, but rather full of dangers, intrigues, and fighting. He's not a 'nice' man as such, yet he does have a sense of personal loyalty and fairness. But he hides it well...

Set in the world of medieval political plots and with a constant, underlying sense of lurking danger, Raven Lord shows us how empires could continue to prosper – or threaten to fall – in the blink of an eye.

The background and setting are extremely well-researched, and the political 'games of thrones' are thoroughly explored. The author portrays Harald Hardrada as a hardened warrior that he obviously was, and there is little in terms of subtlety in the story. But that suits the plot well, for those political movers and shakers don't hold back.

I found this a fascinating glimpse into an area not often enough featured in historical fiction. The Byzantine Empire was remarkable, both in its vast lands, and in its squabbling imperial families, where no one thinks twice about murder to further their own cause. It makes for highly entertaining, and utterly gripping, reading.

I'm looking forward to reading the next book about Harald's adventures before he meets his end at Stamford Bridge in 1066.

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A historical fiction novel that yet again allows me to be transported right back to Harald Sigurdsson's world. Following from the first book, we return to 1034AD, and we follow Sigurdsson's journey that will fulfil his thirst for fame and fortune. One which sees him travelling to the lands of the Eastern Roman empire. But will he survive the things he finds there?

A retelling of the Last Vikings life and one that is so well told! I couldn't tell the fact from fiction. Set in Constantinople and taking us on an epic journey through to Edessa and Jerusalem, I was enthralled with this novel.

This is a series that should be read from the start in chronological order. That's my opinion anyway! We see Harald, first and foremost a warrior, realise that himself and his men need to create a living from their new surroundings. Harald is a man who has such skill on the battlefield but is a flawed and complex character. I prefer this to a perfect character as it brings him to vivid life in my mind.

I was engrossed in this instalment. It is just as well written, and the plot is just as original and fresh as Warrior Prince. Again, J.C. Duncan's storytelling skills weave an intricate story as before. I wasn't disappointed in any way with The Raven Lord. If you enjoy M.J. Porter's books or any historical fiction based on the Vikings, be sure to pick up this series! It's a fabulous read.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the gifted ebook.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Onward, Harald!

Book 2 of the Last Viking Trilogy continues the tightly written, action packed story of Prince Harald.
In this book, we see Harald mature from boy warrior to cunning commander. He is ambitious and savvy, and not without his flaws. This particular historical period has been well-researched by the author, so the fictional narrator, Eric, has plenty to work with as the saga continues. Although it seemed to me that Eric did not impart as much philosophical insight as in Book 1, which I liked and felt it gave depth to the characters in Book 1, the plot here moved exceptionally well, so that I was certainly intrigued by the story and its political twists and implications. I look forward to book 3.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Continuing on from the first book we follow Haralds quest for fame and fortune with some epic battles along the way. The author has done some impeccable research to give this story the edge that I have come to love in the viking world. It's vibrant and blood thirty battles are woven expertly by the author as the story of Haralds journey came to life. I relished each and every chapter. The intricate story of a viking becoming a legend. I recommend reading the series in order as you get a much fuller picture and a better experience.

[John Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome read.

This series is brilliant. Real edge of your seat stuff. Harald Hardrada was a fascinating man. I wonder what would have happened in 1066 if he had won the battle of Stamford Bridge and faced off against the Normans. Maybe someone will write an alternate history book. I have hardly put this book down over the last few days. A must read for all historical fiction fans. I have to be patient now and wait for the next one.

[John Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brings historical people to life

Follows the historical and political intrigues, of the Byzantine Empire. Adds a future Scandinavian King to the mix, along with the strength & skills of Viking warriors. Learn a little history, wisdom & enjoy a big adventure all rolled into one story!

[Linda Susan Garman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harold

I have often wondered about Harold and his doings and dealings while he was in Constantinople. Even though this is a historical fiction it is extremely exceptionly well written and a pure joy to read. Harold is such a colorful person in history his sense of honor and duty are something that should be taught in our schools today
.

[Judy Loos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven Lord

This book had an excellent flow from one chapter to the next. It kept you looking for more all the time. The ending has left me desiring the next book in the series a d the one after that since he has already set that stage in the way the ending reads .

[Brendan]

Another epic read

A continuation of the epic story of harald and his epic adventures with his warband. This book starts where the last left off on the journey to Constantinople and beyond. It's action another action packed page turner.

[Diane Simone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and read it quickly as I just couldn’t put it down. The author has done research and evidenced it within the story well. I’m now onto the next in the series and looking forward to reading it.

[Andrew Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best series I’ve read in a long while

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Rate

A really well written book. It runs at a pace that keeps you interested and eager to turn the next page. Great historical detail. Loved it.

[john temple · Rating 5 out of 5]

A page turner without doubt

A mesmerising tale of politics, intrigues and violence. All told with skill and verve which makes for a riveting read

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

- Continuation of a good series.

[Braden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely not a Viking book…although that’s why I gave this series a try and so glad i did. Absolutely fantastic series this far. Definitely one of my favorites.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plot
Raven Lord picks up after the events of Warrior Prince and spans Harald’s next three years of adventures. 
With an intriguing, action-led plot with political motives underpinning the action, there is plenty for readers to dive into. Whether you enjoy detailed battle scenes or digging into the machinations of those in power, both are in abundance in this book. I enjoy both of these elements, and they were perfectly balanced in this narrative. Whether you are a fan of one, the other, or both, there is something for all readers. 
Harald and the crew are out to make a name for themselves and secure a fortune to go and win the throne back from the usurpers back in the North. It’s a long, epic quest and not one without its hardships. With danger around every corner, we readers are kept on a blade’s edge wondering if those we have come to love in the narrative will see it through, or pay the ultimate price. 
 
Characters
The series is made up of a handful of main protagonists, together with a fantastic supporting cast. Naturally, our narrator Eric, as well as Harald Sigurdsson (aka Harald Hardrada), feature heavily in the narrative. I enjoy both their character arcs and the development we see of both individuals in this second book of the series. That the tale concerns Harald and his journey to becoming a strong leader is undisputed; we see this growth throughout. 
Admittedly, Harald wouldn’t be the man he was without his followers. There are characters we have come to know and love from the previous book, as well as new faces. The familiarity is comforting whilst new characters add a fresh flavour to the narrative and help build upon what has gone before.
 
Setting
Something I talked about in my review of Warrior Prince, and I will talk about again here, is the Eastern European setting. It’s quite common to find fiction of this time period and genre set in Britain. However, I really enjoyed this alternate setting. There is far more scope for travel, and it’s a pleasant break from reading the same narrative over again. Don’t get me wrong, I read a lot of the genre and I don’t get tired of it, but I do appreciate when something different like Raven Lord comes around.
This change gives us more of an idea of the people as well as the chance to look at some European history. There is some travel that takes place in the book, but it easy to follow what is going on when. 
I especially enjoyed this as it gives us the chance to explore more of a multi-cultural narrative. In this second narrative, we build upon the characters and cultures already introduced and add Muslim representation as well. I really enjoyed how each of these cultures is featured and how they interact with each other. Naturally, some of the conflict in the book centres around this, and it was exciting to read! 
 
Narrative Style
The narrative is told by Eric, who was Harald’s right hand man on campaign. This storyteller format is one I have read and loved time and again in books (I’m incidentally reading another one already). It lends a casual and conversational style to a narrative. It’s easy to read and imagine that you are sat around the fire and listening to the story for yourself. 
What I also like about the style is that it lends some intimacy to the tale. We get hints about how characters are feel about events, not just the pure fact of what happens.
Naturally, the majority of the narrative is the retailing itself. However, I enjoy the brief flashbacks to present day that break up the narrative, and give Eric opportunities to look back in hindsight at what has happened in the course of his and Harald’s life. It is a unique perspective, and one I will not tire of!
 
Summary 
If you enjoy Viking era historical fiction, and are looking for a slightly different premise and setting, The Last Viking series is one I would strongly recommend picking up. Full of both action and intrigue, this unique narrative has plenty to offer any historical fiction fan!

[M.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven Lord is book two in JC Duncan's epic retelling of Harald Hardrada's life. I have read book 1.

Harald has found his way to Constantinople with his band of brothers. Now he must learn the ways of politics, elevated to a whole new art in the Eastern Roman Empire, where the new emperor, Michael, and his wife, Zoe, the empress, are a far cry from allies working together to protect their vast empire. And Harald, a man more at home with a blade to hand, must discover how he and his men can not only survive but thrive in this new environment.

Raven Lord is a thrilling tale that takes readers from Constantinople to Edessa and then Jerusalem in the 1030s. It is narrated by Harald's trusty friend, Eric, who regales his audience with tales of daring deeds as well as his own failures and faults. As Harald's friend, Eric is often marginalised in the story of Harald's life, but in recounting the story to a new audience, he achieves something different. I very much enjoyed this minor but important element of the story. I think we can all see where Eric's leaning!

Harald, still as arrogant and hard-hearted as in book 1, is also shown to be a man with a weakness for a certain woman, and this facet of the story is also very well crafted. For all his battle prowess and willingness to speak his mind and to hell with the consequences, he still has his foibles.

A fabulously entertaining and well-paced tale. A real delight. It is sure to appeal to fans of the genre.

[Andrea C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing me the e-ARC

This is a continuation of retelling of Harald Hardrada's life. I must admit, I have not read book 1, however it was written so well and with tiny bits of recaps from book 1 that I did not have any problem by reading the second book at first. Of course I would know the characters better, but it was not a problem at all.
Our narrator is Eric, who is telling the story from his perspective, so we are following actually two plot lines. One in the past and one in present day. I liked the both characters and was suprised by the political intriguing in the palace near the end of the book (leaving it a bit vague because of spoilers)
Overall it was nice and quick read, I was not bored at all. Some things I wish we get described more, for example the training at the beginning. However I quite enjoyed myself so 4 stars for sure.