Sigmundur and the Golden Ring: A retelling of the Faroes Saga

by Tim Ecott

This is an epic tale as exciting as the legend of Robin Hood or King Arthur. Written down almost a thousand years ago as the Saga of the Faroe Islands, it tells the story of Sigmundur and his cousin Thórir. Abducted from their remote island in the Northern Sea, these two young adventurers must cross the frozen landscape of Norway, learning to survive under the protection of the mysterious Ulfur, before serving Earl Haakon to fight against Viking raiders. Proving their bravery against wild bears, ocean storms and evil curses they return home to avenge their fathers. Protected by a magical golden arm-ring, Sigmundur survives against the odds, winning the heart of the beautiful Thurid, and earning the respect of the other islanders, while all the while struggling against the rebellious actions of his jealous relative Tróndur of Gøta.

Tim Ecott retells this thrilling ancient story for a modern reader, bringing the characters to life with vivid descriptions of the mystical islands which form the backdrop to their adventures. Building on his knowledge of the Faroes acquired while writing The Land of Maybe, he has given the hero of the saga a fresh voice.

241 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 8, 2024

Reviews

[Tom Trouton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very readable epic saga. It’s very relatable to life in modern Faröes according to the author’s earlier book “The Land of Maybe”.