Bjorn and Bread

by Scott McGowan

In the second day of Mars in the year of the disabled wasp… A storm gathers, trees bend in the howling wind and the mountains scream their warnings to all who surround them. Lights flash in the skies as lightning crackles and thunder rolls. As the earth shakes in the valleys, the animals make for shelter and the forests clear away their inhabitants to make way for the teaming rain and the ferocious hail erupting from the dark and cloudy heavens. This is no time to be presenting yourself to the elements. In the dank, misty fog that covers the land there are none so bold as would wish to be pressing through the shadowy and murky backlands of the terrain we see before us; None who had any choice at any rate. Glad Lockforger, a humble Dwarf from the small mining community in Mirkhead , was on such an unfortunate passage. Bruised and near broken from his journey, he trod on through the soggy, soiled ground beneath his small feet, wincing in pain with every step. His journey had been a long and arduous one and had taken him many weeks of hard slog and deep determination to manage forth, ever onwards towards his ultimate destination. It was all going to be worthwhile though. On the other side of the mountain before him lay Tallochmhar, the land of the King. He had to get there. He had to tell his tale. He had to get a beer…

288 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[E.L. Ervin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpectedly Entertaining!
First off, I didn't know what to expect from this novel because I did do the unthinkable and judged the cover! I know, I know...but, I am here to say that I am glad I got the chance to read this amazing novel. This is nothing like I've ever read before "In a good way". This tale weaves a great storyline that takes its reader on the journey with the characters. And each character had a well developed personality that is entertaining all all ways. I recommend this adventurous, enthralling novel to everyone! It is a magnificent read and you won't be disappointed. This book is thoroughly entertaining. Great job Scott McGowan! I don't know why you don't have more reviews, but I will share the news about this novel. Loved it!

[Eleanor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book as it was fun and exciting! The characters were well written and added a lot to the story. The booked ended on a cliff hanger and I can't wait to read the next book to find out what happens next in Bjorn's adventure with his companions.

[H.W. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I took a long time to read this book, as I put it down for a long period. Although I enjoyed the tone, the premise and the main characters, the proofreading was such that I found it hard to get through. Also, right when I stopped, there were several characters clearly borrowed from another author and I was taken out of the story--that made me wonder if this was really a fan-fic work.

I came back to it much later and decided it would be my after-whisky book. That worked much better. Also, driving on, I found the devotion to certain prior authors was meant more as an homage, and some of the 'visiting' characters did not make a re-appearance.

This is a wacky and whimsical hero's quest, and very broad in scope - there are multiple story lines and sub-protagonists. It could be better with more challenges to the main protagonist - he gets some very generous help along the way, to the point where suspension of disbelief is required. A hero should work harder for his success.