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Bane of the North #2
Rise of the Draugr
'We live as men - but fight like gods.'
A new threat looms over Garik Castle, forcing Bane and Alruna to once again defy the odds to defend the realm. Their quest begins with finding the key to unlocking the Fug and uniting the fractured clans As the war between gods intensifies and the end of days draws near, the fate of mankind rests in the hands of a mortal.
A new threat looms over Garik Castle, forcing Bane and Alruna to once again defy the odds to defend the realm. Their quest begins with finding the key to unlocking the Fug and uniting the fractured clans As the war between gods intensifies and the end of days draws near, the fate of mankind rests in the hands of a mortal.
484 pages, Paperback
First published June 23, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
April 27, 2025
A.C.Salter does it again with another fantastic book! 💪
Wow, this books definetly took me on a journey of emotions 😲The action in the book is captivating and really pulls you in from page 1 right up until the last!
One of the charactwr i really enjoyed in book 1 has taken a complete 180°, I am floored 🤣
The ending though! 😲😲😲😲
"We live as men, but fight as gods" ⚔️
Onto the Crooked Shard 🖤
Wow, this books definetly took me on a journey of emotions 😲The action in the book is captivating and really pulls you in from page 1 right up until the last!
One of the charactwr i really enjoyed in book 1 has taken a complete 180°, I am floored 🤣
The ending though! 😲😲😲😲
"We live as men, but fight as gods" ⚔️
Onto the Crooked Shard 🖤
January 15, 2025
And done! Much more of a slowburn than book 1 but the last 5 chapters were Epic!!!! Very much loving this series and can’t wait to read book 3
March 26, 2025
5 🌟
This is an even easier, more thriling read than the first. Wow, what a sequel! All the familiar faces return, and the action picks up immediately, thrusting you into the battles at a dizzying rate. Bane, now a man, Alruna, a chief with a loyal following and the 'family' of Bane, by his side now, through thick and thin.
A.C. Salter has truly excelled in this book. The narrative and prose are formidable and the action relentless. Next, who is The Crooked Shard?! I can not wait for book 3!
This is an even easier, more thriling read than the first. Wow, what a sequel! All the familiar faces return, and the action picks up immediately, thrusting you into the battles at a dizzying rate. Bane, now a man, Alruna, a chief with a loyal following and the 'family' of Bane, by his side now, through thick and thin.
A.C. Salter has truly excelled in this book. The narrative and prose are formidable and the action relentless. Next, who is The Crooked Shard?! I can not wait for book 3!
June 29, 2025
This series is my new obsession!
May 8, 2025
Rise of the Draugr by @a.c.salter book review
Rise of the draugr is book 2 in the bane of the north series. A Viking fantasy series’s
Book 2 pick up exactly where gallows born ended and it doesn’t let up. The storey follows Bane and Alruna as they confront a looming menace over the castle. My heart was in a mouth in this book.
Then my jaw hit the floor and my heart broke.
AC salter has a fantastic way of thinking you know what’s to come then throwing something at you that complete blind sides you. The little notes from Nel warms my heart and is the extra I never know I needed
Another 5⭐️from me and yes I am already
reading book 3 l cannot put this series down
Rise of the draugr is book 2 in the bane of the north series. A Viking fantasy series’s
Book 2 pick up exactly where gallows born ended and it doesn’t let up. The storey follows Bane and Alruna as they confront a looming menace over the castle. My heart was in a mouth in this book.
Then my jaw hit the floor and my heart broke.
AC salter has a fantastic way of thinking you know what’s to come then throwing something at you that complete blind sides you. The little notes from Nel warms my heart and is the extra I never know I needed
Another 5⭐️from me and yes I am already
reading book 3 l cannot put this series down
December 26, 2024
Get an editor or proofreader or something!
The story and characters are interesting and likable enough.
But holy crap! The entire book is riddled with spelling errors, comma trauma, and grammatical mistakes.
Please get a better editor or add more because your current editor is missing SO many things
The story and characters are interesting and likable enough.
But holy crap! The entire book is riddled with spelling errors, comma trauma, and grammatical mistakes.
Please get a better editor or add more because your current editor is missing SO many things
February 15, 2025
Wow! I am loving this series!
I jumped straight into this after finishing the first book and I’m going to do the same with the next one because I can’t get enough of this.
The battle/fight scenes in these books are awesome. The details and the way the characters move during the fights really paint a clear picture of what the scenes look like and I love that with fight scenes!
Again the characters in these books are amazing and the relationships between them are so good. I will admit I was a little mad at who the turncoat turned out to be but only because they were one of my favourites 😂
I am very excited to read the next book!
I jumped straight into this after finishing the first book and I’m going to do the same with the next one because I can’t get enough of this.
The battle/fight scenes in these books are awesome. The details and the way the characters move during the fights really paint a clear picture of what the scenes look like and I love that with fight scenes!
Again the characters in these books are amazing and the relationships between them are so good. I will admit I was a little mad at who the turncoat turned out to be but only because they were one of my favourites 😂
I am very excited to read the next book!
September 18, 2025
Good book, I love the characters and enjoy the banter between them, I’m looking forward to reading book 3.
July 7, 2025
It wasn’t bad. There were quite a few spelling mistakes as some reviews point out. My main problem was Alruna. She was just aggravating to me in whatever scene she was in. Some times the writing was confusing and although characters did act somewhat differently for me their dialogue read the same. I did binge read it though after finishing the first, so, again, it’s not horrible.
(The main reason I rate this so low is basically just Alruna, which is pretty bad because she’s an integral part of the plot).
(The main reason I rate this so low is basically just Alruna, which is pretty bad because she’s an integral part of the plot).
May 31, 2025
Constant killing
I guess that the viking era entailed a lot of war, and if that's what you're looking for, this would be a great series. It just seems there are just so many ways to use a knife, sword and arrows to kill. I would have like to see more personal interaction. These books were exhausting to me. I think I need to look at a different genre.
I guess that the viking era entailed a lot of war, and if that's what you're looking for, this would be a great series. It just seems there are just so many ways to use a knife, sword and arrows to kill. I would have like to see more personal interaction. These books were exhausting to me. I think I need to look at a different genre.
June 23, 2026
I absolutely loved this series!
I read all five books back-to-back in about a week, so rather than writing separate reviews for each one, I'm leaving the same review across the series because I don't want to accidentally spoil anything.
From the very first book, I was completely hooked. The world-building is fantastic, with gods, battles, adventure, mystery, and plenty of twists along the way. Every time I finished a book, I immediately picked up the next one because I just had to know what happened next.
Bane is such a wonderful main character. Despite the tragic start to his life, he grows into a kind, caring, and memorable young man. Watching his journey unfold across all five books was one of my favourite parts of the series. His character growth felt natural and rewarding, and I became completely invested in his story.
This series has everything I love in an epic viking fantasy, adventure, action, fascinating lore, powerful gods, memorable characters, and a world that feels alive. Before I knew it, I'd spent an entire week completely immersed in it.
Every book in this part of the series was a 5⭐ read for me, and I will definitely be picking up more books by A.C. Salter in the future.
Highly recommended for fantasy readers who love epic adventures and character-driven stories.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I intended to read one book. A week later I'd finished five. Make of that what you will." 😅📚⚔️
I read all five books back-to-back in about a week, so rather than writing separate reviews for each one, I'm leaving the same review across the series because I don't want to accidentally spoil anything.
From the very first book, I was completely hooked. The world-building is fantastic, with gods, battles, adventure, mystery, and plenty of twists along the way. Every time I finished a book, I immediately picked up the next one because I just had to know what happened next.
Bane is such a wonderful main character. Despite the tragic start to his life, he grows into a kind, caring, and memorable young man. Watching his journey unfold across all five books was one of my favourite parts of the series. His character growth felt natural and rewarding, and I became completely invested in his story.
This series has everything I love in an epic viking fantasy, adventure, action, fascinating lore, powerful gods, memorable characters, and a world that feels alive. Before I knew it, I'd spent an entire week completely immersed in it.
Every book in this part of the series was a 5⭐ read for me, and I will definitely be picking up more books by A.C. Salter in the future.
Highly recommended for fantasy readers who love epic adventures and character-driven stories.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I intended to read one book. A week later I'd finished five. Make of that what you will." 😅📚⚔️
May 16, 2026
AC absolutely smashes it with this second instalment. From the very first page, the story grabs hold and doesn’t let go. The writing is vivid, cinematic, and full of heart. The tension is constant — I found myself genuinely panicking whenever the characters were thrown into danger. They’re so likeable, so human, that every triumph hits hard and every moment of peril twists your stomach.
The emotional range in this book is wild. You’ll feel anger, sadness, hope, and those little bursts of joy that sneak up on you in the quiet moments. The world‑building is phenomenal — rich, myth‑soaked, atmospheric — and the twists are brutal in the best way. They hit like a Viking axe and leave you reeling.
If you love Vikings, mythological depth, and epic heroes you can’t help but root for, this series is a must. I adored this book, and I’m beyond excited that Book 3 is already waiting for me. I’m diving straight in.
The emotional range in this book is wild. You’ll feel anger, sadness, hope, and those little bursts of joy that sneak up on you in the quiet moments. The world‑building is phenomenal — rich, myth‑soaked, atmospheric — and the twists are brutal in the best way. They hit like a Viking axe and leave you reeling.
If you love Vikings, mythological depth, and epic heroes you can’t help but root for, this series is a must. I adored this book, and I’m beyond excited that Book 3 is already waiting for me. I’m diving straight in.
July 8, 2025
From the very first page, the second installment of The Bane of the North series grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go. Action-packed from start to finish, this book delivered twist after jaw-dropping twist that left me gasping, furious at certain characters, and emotionally wrecked—in the best way possible. There were moments I genuinely questioned why I ever started this series, only to remember how completely addicted I am to the chaos and emotional turmoil it delivers.
This sequel raises the stakes without missing a beat, deepening the world and characters while maintaining the high-octane pace and emotional punches. If anything, it proves that this series is only getting stronger. A solid five-star read for me, and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
This sequel raises the stakes without missing a beat, deepening the world and characters while maintaining the high-octane pace and emotional punches. If anything, it proves that this series is only getting stronger. A solid five-star read for me, and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
September 25, 2024
Couldn’t put it down!
Book 2 is just as fantastical as the first. I couldn’t put it down. Even though I kind of knew who the turn coat was, I still thoroughly enjoyed it as it played out. I love the depth of the characters and the world. Each of them and their individual journeys are important to the bigger story. A.C Salter’s story weaving is magical. I can see everything unraveling in my mind as it is written. I can’t wait for the third book.
Book 2 is just as fantastical as the first. I couldn’t put it down. Even though I kind of knew who the turn coat was, I still thoroughly enjoyed it as it played out. I love the depth of the characters and the world. Each of them and their individual journeys are important to the bigger story. A.C Salter’s story weaving is magical. I can see everything unraveling in my mind as it is written. I can’t wait for the third book.
June 7, 2025
This second part of the saga is exciting!
This novel continues the saga of Bane and those around him. So many twists and surprises kept me glued to the book and leaving me wanting more. Mr. Salter delivers another action packed story that is truly written as a saga. I highly recommend this book series for anyone who enjoys conflict, well developed characters, and a fantasy world filled with good, evil, and everything in between.
This novel continues the saga of Bane and those around him. So many twists and surprises kept me glued to the book and leaving me wanting more. Mr. Salter delivers another action packed story that is truly written as a saga. I highly recommend this book series for anyone who enjoys conflict, well developed characters, and a fantasy world filled with good, evil, and everything in between.
August 27, 2025
Ok.....I'm so hooked!!!
A.C. Salter, you have my undivided attention! I have never liked fantasy books! I didn't think I would like this one either, since it's written by a man...😁 but......these 2 books so far, have me captivated. I have bawled like a baby, I have fist punched the air, and laughed like a crazy person. When I realized the Draughr were coming in on the Fug to the rescue, I jumped up and down in my chair! Going to get book number 3 right now! Amazing!!!
A.C. Salter, you have my undivided attention! I have never liked fantasy books! I didn't think I would like this one either, since it's written by a man...😁 but......these 2 books so far, have me captivated. I have bawled like a baby, I have fist punched the air, and laughed like a crazy person. When I realized the Draughr were coming in on the Fug to the rescue, I jumped up and down in my chair! Going to get book number 3 right now! Amazing!!!
January 19, 2026
Fantastic Book!
OMG, I couldn’t put this book down until late at night every night, that’s how good it is. I’m ready to start book 3 first thing tomorrow. This book will grab you and not let go until the very end, there will be many late nights of reading. Bane is a very interesting individual in the story but so are his friends and the relationships that evolve. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
OMG, I couldn’t put this book down until late at night every night, that’s how good it is. I’m ready to start book 3 first thing tomorrow. This book will grab you and not let go until the very end, there will be many late nights of reading. Bane is a very interesting individual in the story but so are his friends and the relationships that evolve. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
August 24, 2024
Bane of the North, a review
This was a truly great read. Full of action and a lot of great descriptive reading. A good read for anyone into fantasy stories. My only disappointment was the amount of spelling mistakes which took the edge of the excitement as they reminded me I was only reading a book
This was a truly great read. Full of action and a lot of great descriptive reading. A good read for anyone into fantasy stories. My only disappointment was the amount of spelling mistakes which took the edge of the excitement as they reminded me I was only reading a book
January 11, 2025
A whirlwind of battles, action, and excitement ensues
The book was incredibly full of action as our heroes battles overwhelming odds amidst multiple betrayals and the rising of the gods of old. There is love, magic and heroism that inspires the characters to face the daunting odds. The book certainly sets an exciting stage for the rest of the unfolding epic.
The book was incredibly full of action as our heroes battles overwhelming odds amidst multiple betrayals and the rising of the gods of old. There is love, magic and heroism that inspires the characters to face the daunting odds. The book certainly sets an exciting stage for the rest of the unfolding epic.
January 13, 2025
Very Enjoyable
This is great. I love the character and the plot. If you guys would be so kind as to correct the spelling errors (steins? Think you meant stains.), I’d be grateful. A bit distracting. I’m a teacher. These things bother us. No matter, great story. And the Draugr are totally cool.
This is great. I love the character and the plot. If you guys would be so kind as to correct the spelling errors (steins? Think you meant stains.), I’d be grateful. A bit distracting. I’m a teacher. These things bother us. No matter, great story. And the Draugr are totally cool.
March 11, 2025
What’s a “stein”.?
Not sure how any author or spell check can miss “stein” instead of stain? It’s not just a one off but every time that the word stain is needed. This almost reads like a YA book just a bit gorier ,you’d need to be really young to miss the big bad mc reveal as it’s so obvious! Enough for me to move onto the next one.
Not sure how any author or spell check can miss “stein” instead of stain? It’s not just a one off but every time that the word stain is needed. This almost reads like a YA book just a bit gorier ,you’d need to be really young to miss the big bad mc reveal as it’s so obvious! Enough for me to move onto the next one.
January 26, 2026
Slater does another amazing job in this second book of the Bane of the North series. The character development remains steady and true to the first book while introducing some great new characters. Slater also builds upon the plot established from Gallows Born, so the universe grows and develops. This book was great and prepares you for an amazing series.
March 5, 2026
Tyr God and War Battle
This is very exciting and thrilling book. If you like history, war, and a thrilling story, you'll like this one. You have the castle, the Raiders, and farmers all coming together to fight against those from the opposing side. Will the God's heal enough to finish what was started over a 1000 years ago.
This is very exciting and thrilling book. If you like history, war, and a thrilling story, you'll like this one. You have the castle, the Raiders, and farmers all coming together to fight against those from the opposing side. Will the God's heal enough to finish what was started over a 1000 years ago.
June 23, 2026
This 2nd book of the series is as good as the first. So many stories going at the same time: Bailin, captured by the Empire and sentenced to 'Ride the Maiden'; Cuthbur & Belle, trapped in a cell deep in the tunnels of the castle, Alruna and her too hot temper, charged with uniting the clans to prepare for war; and Bane -- doing whatever he can to help everyone. I aleady have book 3
July 28, 2024
As good as the first
Great book! This book is as good as the first book.. action, adventure and twists and turns and a little romance to boot. The author tells a great story that just keeps you hook page after page.
Great book! This book is as good as the first book.. action, adventure and twists and turns and a little romance to boot. The author tells a great story that just keeps you hook page after page.
August 1, 2024
Epic Fantasy Novel
This is a story of heroes, monsters and legendary characters. It will transport you to a new world of wonder and adventure unlike any
other . You will witness the great battles against evil ! Read on great adventurers and be amazed !
This is a story of heroes, monsters and legendary characters. It will transport you to a new world of wonder and adventure unlike any
other . You will witness the great battles against evil ! Read on great adventurers and be amazed !
August 20, 2024
This series hooked me when Nell was being hanged and Bane was born. A very original storyline and has great writing. Bane is a great character and has many good supporting roles as his mentor and friends. I look forward to the next book in series.
September 19, 2024
Vikings, Gods and the Draugr go to war
Another great read! These characters are so vivid and the story is sublime. So much action and intrigue. Bane, Alruna, Cuthburt Belle and Bailin have grabbed my interest. Was not expecting what happened with Glance and Jurl.
Another great read! These characters are so vivid and the story is sublime. So much action and intrigue. Bane, Alruna, Cuthburt Belle and Bailin have grabbed my interest. Was not expecting what happened with Glance and Jurl.
September 25, 2024
A really good read
The second instalment builds on the first, characters are built on and you get to enjoy them. The author skilfully weaves the story and there are some great twists and turns, building to the end crescendo. Cannot wait till the next instalment.
The second instalment builds on the first, characters are built on and you get to enjoy them. The author skilfully weaves the story and there are some great twists and turns, building to the end crescendo. Cannot wait till the next instalment.
October 3, 2024
2nd Read
I read Gallows Born, thinking it was the first of long set. Imagine my surprise to find it was only the first, and there was no second. Now I have read the second and enjoyed it immensely. Now, to wait for the third.
I read Gallows Born, thinking it was the first of long set. Imagine my surprise to find it was only the first, and there was no second. Now I have read the second and enjoyed it immensely. Now, to wait for the third.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews