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Hraban Chronicles #1
The Oath Breaker
This is an updated cover edition of B00LVZDBVS.
Hraban the Marcomanni has never met his father Maroboodus, exiled in far-away Rome, but this is about to change.
In the age of early Roman empire, Augustus is creating his legacy with gladius as the legions begin the cumbersome work of subjecting the troublesome, if divided Germani tribes.
Such great, distant issues do not concern Hraban, who is a young man bent on becoming a spear lord, giver of rings, a warrior praised in the dark halls of his kin. He is the Raven, Hraban, and son of great lords. Yet, his father’s return to their burning village does not only upset plans of Rome and the scheming Germani, but those of Hraban, who finds the ancient virtues of his kin are very strained with strange morals of Maroboodus, his father.
Will Hraban find a way to survive the plots of his many enemies, serve his father and keep his honour while entire nations struggle to unite against Rome and those, who would betray the Germani?
The Oath Breaker is the first book in a new series of historical novels set in the dark lands east of Rhenus and fabulous, ancient Rome.
Hraban the Marcomanni has never met his father Maroboodus, exiled in far-away Rome, but this is about to change.
In the age of early Roman empire, Augustus is creating his legacy with gladius as the legions begin the cumbersome work of subjecting the troublesome, if divided Germani tribes.
Such great, distant issues do not concern Hraban, who is a young man bent on becoming a spear lord, giver of rings, a warrior praised in the dark halls of his kin. He is the Raven, Hraban, and son of great lords. Yet, his father’s return to their burning village does not only upset plans of Rome and the scheming Germani, but those of Hraban, who finds the ancient virtues of his kin are very strained with strange morals of Maroboodus, his father.
Will Hraban find a way to survive the plots of his many enemies, serve his father and keep his honour while entire nations struggle to unite against Rome and those, who would betray the Germani?
The Oath Breaker is the first book in a new series of historical novels set in the dark lands east of Rhenus and fabulous, ancient Rome.
Kindle Edition
First published July 16, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 5, 2018
Don't pass this one up
I've been searching and reading many books all in disappointment until now. If your like me you love Saxon tales Bernard cornwell and the Norsemen saga and of course the legionary series by Gordon Doherty. I've been finding books that look good but once you get into them it seems your reading young adult stories. poorly written and just awful. This book is different. It's not another crap rip off of cornwell or awful like "Viking slave" where everything goes the characters way from boy to warrior berserker in a damn week but something in its own category and league. Great scandals and fights making you feel you want revenge as bad as Hraben. Also something a lot of these Amazon instant authors need to learn about is character development. Ya . Instead of names and no description of who characters are and what they are thinking , you get genuinely attached to these characters and despise others just as strongly. I'm rambling. I hate those reviewers that write a damn novel about silly ass shit that doesn't matter so I'll shut up. It's historical FICTION folks so shut up and enjoy it the way it is. You won't regret it.
I've been searching and reading many books all in disappointment until now. If your like me you love Saxon tales Bernard cornwell and the Norsemen saga and of course the legionary series by Gordon Doherty. I've been finding books that look good but once you get into them it seems your reading young adult stories. poorly written and just awful. This book is different. It's not another crap rip off of cornwell or awful like "Viking slave" where everything goes the characters way from boy to warrior berserker in a damn week but something in its own category and league. Great scandals and fights making you feel you want revenge as bad as Hraben. Also something a lot of these Amazon instant authors need to learn about is character development. Ya . Instead of names and no description of who characters are and what they are thinking , you get genuinely attached to these characters and despise others just as strongly. I'm rambling. I hate those reviewers that write a damn novel about silly ass shit that doesn't matter so I'll shut up. It's historical FICTION folks so shut up and enjoy it the way it is. You won't regret it.
July 23, 2014
The Oath Breaker pulled me right into the story of this old man who was but a boy when the story begins. Yet it is not a book for children but has both brutal battles and passionate love in it. And on an occasion the expressions of Hraban and his friends and enemies make you laugh out loud. Like in the Cantiniere tales by Alaric Longward you can see that an excessive amount of research is in the background of this book. Alaric Longward's storytelling is so capturing that it doesn't take more than a few lines until you're right in the middle of the story.
April 20, 2018
This is a classical adventure story set in the lands of the Germani during the era of Augustus. I am trying to mix in a light layer of historical accuracy with a fairly brutal story, and I did throw in some magic as well. The book is not for the faint of heart and features plenty of violence and adventure during a very war-like era.
May 16, 2016
The story was a little confusing at first, but as I got into the book and got into the style of the author it ended up being a pretty good book.
July 29, 2018
Great story.
I read the stories of Maroboodus first. I loved them. I really rooted for him and was unsure if I’d be able to get on #teamHraban. His son and in many ways, rival. I did. This book was fantastic.
I read the stories of Maroboodus first. I loved them. I really rooted for him and was unsure if I’d be able to get on #teamHraban. His son and in many ways, rival. I did. This book was fantastic.
March 1, 2017
Really enjoyed this story of a young man's difficult coming of age within a Germani tribe. Alaric Longward is a fantastic story teller and master of weaving intrigue. I'm looking forward to the other books in this series.
May 5, 2020
It definitely took me a while to keep the names and places straight when I first started (and even by the end lol) - but thankfully there's a handy guide I flipped to constantly! So much detail, which I really love. Almost too much detail to keep straight given the extent of characters and events. On second thought, I should have tabbed more pages for key info references - there's a lot of subtleties that I really enjoy but that I have trouble remembering "where did I read that?". Not repetitive at all with the descriptions like some authors who just repeat the same phrases again and again; just the right amount of violence and sex. Moves along at a great pace so you're never bored. I definitely read it in bigger chunks at a time when I could - again to keep up with everything. The table of contents was slightly off, but other than that, I couldn't "tell" this was self published, which is super awesome. Not amateur hour over here. I'm a fan of the Last Kingdom books (or I was for the first 6 or so), so I stumbled upon this series based on my interest there. But I like how it's about Germania and Rome, which I really knew nothing about coming into it. It's exciting to learn some new history! Can't wait to keep reading; I even ordered two copies of Raven's Wyrd b/c the first order couldn't be filled on time and then I couldn't cancel it, so here we are! Just got my first copy, second will be here in a few days. Oh well :)
April 16, 2019
I normally finish books, even if I do not find them enjoyable. This one, had to stop around half-way. Overly long, boring, and a struggle to get through. I wanted to enjoy this, because I'm a fan of historical fiction, and I thought the setting (Germania around the birth of Christ) would be great. Very disappointing.
May 5, 2019
The history is vast and well done in this book, I cared about the characters and had action to keep me entertained, my only complaint was some of the editing, it was uncommon but at times it got confusing who was speaking to whom and how the scene was moving plus minor things like word placement at times. Beyiund that, I'd recommend this book.
January 19, 2019
A good read
A tad confusing when trying to keep track of all the characters, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Have purchased the next in the series, so that confirms my approval.
(By husband of account holder)
A tad confusing when trying to keep track of all the characters, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Have purchased the next in the series, so that confirms my approval.
(By husband of account holder)
August 6, 2017
Good historical fiction
This was a good read. A look into a time and place , Germania, that I have not often seen. A fast paced action novel.
This was a good read. A look into a time and place , Germania, that I have not often seen. A fast paced action novel.
September 5, 2017
Abandoned at 20%.
I just could not get into this and found it tedious and boring. The writing style is well done though so it might just be me not getting on with the genre.
I just could not get into this and found it tedious and boring. The writing style is well done though so it might just be me not getting on with the genre.
June 16, 2018
Awesome read.
I could not put this book down until the end. I was up all night. The action and surprises were nonstop.
I could not put this book down until the end. I was up all night. The action and surprises were nonstop.
October 24, 2018
Great story but...
Too many characters made this more confusing rather than complex, but still a really good read. Looking forward to reading the next instalment
Too many characters made this more confusing rather than complex, but still a really good read. Looking forward to reading the next instalment
June 17, 2019
Well Done Historical Fiction
I got so wrapped up in this book, I read it straight through. Well
fleshed out characters: real feeling as well as lovable and hateful.
I got so wrapped up in this book, I read it straight through. Well
fleshed out characters: real feeling as well as lovable and hateful.
October 30, 2020
I tried and tried. Couldn't get past the 4th chapter. The translation into English was terrible .
June 1, 2021
I really like this series. Different take on history, Usually get stories about the Romans not the "other "side". Very refreshing. Tried to get it all on audiobook for vacation trips.
March 17, 2017
This was a refreshing change.
This book is the beginning of the tale of Hraban. Told from the well worn first person perspective of Hraban to the son of a better known warlord while hiding out in Roman Colchester.
This book is centered around the Germanic tribes, in particular the Marcomanni. While historicly little is really known about them apart from what survives from what the Romans told us.In which, of course they painted the Germanic tribes as great unwashed barbarians. This of course is not completely true. As they had their own customs and laws, as explored here in this volume.
Hraban is the ill favored son of Maroboodus, who is returning from serving in the Roman armies, for reasons that soon become clear. With a large number of betrayals, deaths and counter betrayals. It can be a little difficult to keep track of who is betraying who, or at least going to try. However stick with it and it clears up in the end. As tales of the Romans in the forests of Germany are being more and more popular. I would hearty recommend this as a counter point to all those noble Roman/ bad German novels.
This book is the beginning of the tale of Hraban. Told from the well worn first person perspective of Hraban to the son of a better known warlord while hiding out in Roman Colchester.
This book is centered around the Germanic tribes, in particular the Marcomanni. While historicly little is really known about them apart from what survives from what the Romans told us.In which, of course they painted the Germanic tribes as great unwashed barbarians. This of course is not completely true. As they had their own customs and laws, as explored here in this volume.
Hraban is the ill favored son of Maroboodus, who is returning from serving in the Roman armies, for reasons that soon become clear. With a large number of betrayals, deaths and counter betrayals. It can be a little difficult to keep track of who is betraying who, or at least going to try. However stick with it and it clears up in the end. As tales of the Romans in the forests of Germany are being more and more popular. I would hearty recommend this as a counter point to all those noble Roman/ bad German novels.
September 4, 2017
If you are a student of history then this may be a book for you. I have quite the love of Roman history and had recently finished a second listen through of Mike Duncan's The History of Rome podcast when I found this gem for free on Kindle Unlimited.
If you don't have any background in Germanic or Roman history you might find that you have trouble getting into the story at first because there are dozens of characters from dozens of tribes with shifting allegiances. This book does a good job of showing the strengths and weaknesses of the Germanic people in their struggle with the Roman empire. It also fairly accurately shows the politics of the day, as we are able to piece together of course, with with fictionalized lives of real people.
Our main character, Hraban, is a teenager who experiences a tragedy at the beginning of the book and encounters his father, who he has never met up to this point. His father toys with his emotions and Hraban is rightfully torn between his own desire to gain fame and a desire for acceptance from his father. Hraban makes some pretty poor decisions but his berserker fighting skills alternatively get him out of and into trouble as the book moves forward. Many of the issues that he has can be attributed to cultural customs that we wouldn't understand today. Overall I found Hraban to be a character that I cared for.
This is the kind of book that is right up my alley. I have loved history since I was a young child. I got into my first historical argument with an adult when I was twelve and I had just read 1066. My love followed me to college, where one of my degrees is in history, and to this day about the only non-fiction I read is ancient history.
If you don't have the same love for history that I do then this is a book that many people might struggle to get into. You have a large cast of characters who sometimes have very similar sounding names and a list of tribes that don't exist today and aren't exactly household names in the way that many of the more Mediterranean tribal peoples of the past are for Americans. The book has a little bit of the supernatural in it but it's not overt magic by any means. I think that the book probably really appeals to a fairly niche market for most American readers and I can't speak for Europeans as to how widespread knowledge of this time period is for them.
If you don't have any background in Germanic or Roman history you might find that you have trouble getting into the story at first because there are dozens of characters from dozens of tribes with shifting allegiances. This book does a good job of showing the strengths and weaknesses of the Germanic people in their struggle with the Roman empire. It also fairly accurately shows the politics of the day, as we are able to piece together of course, with with fictionalized lives of real people.
Our main character, Hraban, is a teenager who experiences a tragedy at the beginning of the book and encounters his father, who he has never met up to this point. His father toys with his emotions and Hraban is rightfully torn between his own desire to gain fame and a desire for acceptance from his father. Hraban makes some pretty poor decisions but his berserker fighting skills alternatively get him out of and into trouble as the book moves forward. Many of the issues that he has can be attributed to cultural customs that we wouldn't understand today. Overall I found Hraban to be a character that I cared for.
This is the kind of book that is right up my alley. I have loved history since I was a young child. I got into my first historical argument with an adult when I was twelve and I had just read 1066. My love followed me to college, where one of my degrees is in history, and to this day about the only non-fiction I read is ancient history.
If you don't have the same love for history that I do then this is a book that many people might struggle to get into. You have a large cast of characters who sometimes have very similar sounding names and a list of tribes that don't exist today and aren't exactly household names in the way that many of the more Mediterranean tribal peoples of the past are for Americans. The book has a little bit of the supernatural in it but it's not overt magic by any means. I think that the book probably really appeals to a fairly niche market for most American readers and I can't speak for Europeans as to how widespread knowledge of this time period is for them.
October 20, 2014
The first thing that struck me about Oath Breaker is how firmly it is rooted in the time period of the Germanic tribes and early Roman expansion, well that and the gorgeous cover! I enjoy history and the nuanced attention to historic detail woven into the story created an immersive storyline from page one.
Hraban's family has long been plagued by a dire prophecy. But now the weakness of one father's love, which prevents the dreadful actions that took place in the past to protect the world, may have set in motion events fulfilling this ancient warning. Hraban's story is related by Hraban as an old, and very regretful, man, giving the events of his youth and coming of age great weight. All of the characters are well crafted, even their flaws, and I was quickly drawn into the story of day to day scuffles which guided the unfolding of the prophecy.
If you enjoy historic fantasy or are looking for a fantasy story that feels more authentic than the traditional medieval kingdom full of elves and dragons, take a look at Oath Breaker. It is a wonderfully crafted story that is deeply engaging and holds the impression that it could have really happened in the dark forests of Germania.
Hraban's family has long been plagued by a dire prophecy. But now the weakness of one father's love, which prevents the dreadful actions that took place in the past to protect the world, may have set in motion events fulfilling this ancient warning. Hraban's story is related by Hraban as an old, and very regretful, man, giving the events of his youth and coming of age great weight. All of the characters are well crafted, even their flaws, and I was quickly drawn into the story of day to day scuffles which guided the unfolding of the prophecy.
If you enjoy historic fantasy or are looking for a fantasy story that feels more authentic than the traditional medieval kingdom full of elves and dragons, take a look at Oath Breaker. It is a wonderfully crafted story that is deeply engaging and holds the impression that it could have really happened in the dark forests of Germania.
November 22, 2015
THE OATH BREAKER chronicles life during the Germanic Wars in a way that only the best historical fiction can do. It looks deeply into the trials and tribulations of one man as he navigates his way through a world of love, betrayal, honor, and savagery.
Hraban faces political enemies, embattlements, and prophetic family obligations as Germanic uprisings threaten Rome's ambitions to expand and consolidate its empire. He tells his story, from youth to age, in an extraordinary first person narrative. What's fascinating about this novel is that it is seen through the eyes of the 'barbarian' son of nobility. We are exposed to monumental historical events via the intimate thoughts of an individual. The novel is so superbly researched and documented; it literally took me into the dark forests and villages of this time period. I found the glossary of names and places very helpful.
Anyone who's seen the movie Gladiator will appreciate the action, epic relevance, and political dynamics of THE OATH BREAKER. First of the Hraban Chronicles, it is a fantastic start to a series. It will certainly leave you wanting to read more, as I know it did me.
Hraban faces political enemies, embattlements, and prophetic family obligations as Germanic uprisings threaten Rome's ambitions to expand and consolidate its empire. He tells his story, from youth to age, in an extraordinary first person narrative. What's fascinating about this novel is that it is seen through the eyes of the 'barbarian' son of nobility. We are exposed to monumental historical events via the intimate thoughts of an individual. The novel is so superbly researched and documented; it literally took me into the dark forests and villages of this time period. I found the glossary of names and places very helpful.
Anyone who's seen the movie Gladiator will appreciate the action, epic relevance, and political dynamics of THE OATH BREAKER. First of the Hraban Chronicles, it is a fantastic start to a series. It will certainly leave you wanting to read more, as I know it did me.
July 23, 2014
If you like great stories of intrigue in the Roman times, you'll love this new thrilling book and it's main character, Hraban.
Hraban, from the Germanic tribe of Marcomanni, tells his story in such a captivating way that I was mesmerized, I just kept on reading! From quite early on, it is clear that Hraban's life wouldn't be an easy one with all the family secrets and the prophecy. Even though he is not sure if he truly believes in the ancient prophecy, he obviously doesn't want to hear that he might be a herald of doom. The unfair way that things turn out for him, after his grandfather is killed, takes him from his small village to fulfill his destiny, wyrd.
As in the author's other historical novel, Reign of Fear, I was again amazed by all the numerous historical facts and details. Alaric Longward has done his research meticulously and it's such a joy to experience through Hraban's life the beliefs and traditions of the people long gone. I really hope that the next part of the Hraban Chronicles will be published soon!
Hraban, from the Germanic tribe of Marcomanni, tells his story in such a captivating way that I was mesmerized, I just kept on reading! From quite early on, it is clear that Hraban's life wouldn't be an easy one with all the family secrets and the prophecy. Even though he is not sure if he truly believes in the ancient prophecy, he obviously doesn't want to hear that he might be a herald of doom. The unfair way that things turn out for him, after his grandfather is killed, takes him from his small village to fulfill his destiny, wyrd.
As in the author's other historical novel, Reign of Fear, I was again amazed by all the numerous historical facts and details. Alaric Longward has done his research meticulously and it's such a joy to experience through Hraban's life the beliefs and traditions of the people long gone. I really hope that the next part of the Hraban Chronicles will be published soon!
June 25, 2016
This book was a major let down. I'm putting this bad boy down at about half way through out of boredom and confusion.
First of all, the main character Hraban is a total douche with no redeeming qualities. I couldn't sympathize with him for a second.
The second problem was that this story is being told of by a member of the Germanic tribes but describes everything in Roman terms. Though Hraban explained he was going to do this in the beginning for ease of storytelling it still really turned me off. Like Germanic warlords called their villages opidums and their short swords gladius. Like, just fucking call it a short sword.
It just was clunky and stupid and made it so I never felt like I was reading about ancient Germans. I kept envisioning shirtless native Americans in teepees for some reason.
I was really looking forward to reading this and I was very disappointed. I may try this again down the line but for now:
NOT RECOMMENDED.
First of all, the main character Hraban is a total douche with no redeeming qualities. I couldn't sympathize with him for a second.
The second problem was that this story is being told of by a member of the Germanic tribes but describes everything in Roman terms. Though Hraban explained he was going to do this in the beginning for ease of storytelling it still really turned me off. Like Germanic warlords called their villages opidums and their short swords gladius. Like, just fucking call it a short sword.
It just was clunky and stupid and made it so I never felt like I was reading about ancient Germans. I kept envisioning shirtless native Americans in teepees for some reason.
I was really looking forward to reading this and I was very disappointed. I may try this again down the line but for now:
NOT RECOMMENDED.
June 19, 2016
Great book. Dark Fantasy at it's best in a historical fiction.
With a solid writing, Mr. Longward tells us a little about the life in the old barbaric Germania.
This book is definitely complex. Sometimes you can be a little lost with the political tugging from all sides, it does remember Game of Thrones with axes and long beards, so it's a book you need to read with some attention or you will get lost and won't understand "why this person is waiting in the line to try to kill Hraban?"
The interconnections with some others series from Mr. Longward makes it even more interesting to read. So I can hardly wait to begin reading his Ten Tears Chronicles, as I like the norse gods a lot more than I like the roman empire, really hoping to see a great Loki in his books
Recommend reading for those that like darker fictions
With a solid writing, Mr. Longward tells us a little about the life in the old barbaric Germania.
This book is definitely complex. Sometimes you can be a little lost with the political tugging from all sides, it does remember Game of Thrones with axes and long beards, so it's a book you need to read with some attention or you will get lost and won't understand "why this person is waiting in the line to try to kill Hraban?"
The interconnections with some others series from Mr. Longward makes it even more interesting to read. So I can hardly wait to begin reading his Ten Tears Chronicles, as I like the norse gods a lot more than I like the roman empire, really hoping to see a great Loki in his books
Recommend reading for those that like darker fictions
June 3, 2016
A period of time we know little about, shrouded in mystery with gods of old, The Oath Breaker chronicles the twisted manipulation of Hraban, son to Maroboodus, prey to a prophecy and mystical forces.
Having read The Cantiniére Chronicles, Book One in the Hraban Chronicles brings us to the tribes of Germani and Roman conquerors. Longward does not tidy away the gory details, so if you are not one for graphic violence, this is not for you. However, the violence is not senseless. It adds to the character development and brings the reader greater understanding of a time where honor was the greatest thing a man could possess. I was drawn in completely to this world, desiring to know more and more to the point where I could not put the novel down. I eagerly await devouring Book Two.
Having read The Cantiniére Chronicles, Book One in the Hraban Chronicles brings us to the tribes of Germani and Roman conquerors. Longward does not tidy away the gory details, so if you are not one for graphic violence, this is not for you. However, the violence is not senseless. It adds to the character development and brings the reader greater understanding of a time where honor was the greatest thing a man could possess. I was drawn in completely to this world, desiring to know more and more to the point where I could not put the novel down. I eagerly await devouring Book Two.
May 5, 2016
Gosh, how can I describe this novel in a few sentences? I both loved and hated Hraban with passion. At times he was childishly weak and at others, so filled with courage I found myself pitching from one emotion to the other. I became invested and involved in the story, never quite knowing the truth about who or what his father was, but wanting to scream a constant warning nevertheless. Stories of this period aren't my usual choice but I'd seen a number of excited reviews and thought I'd give it a try. I wasn't disappointed, not at all. The plot and characters held me captivated until the very end and desperate for more. The story was dark and fast paced, well researched and spotted with history. In short; I loved it.
October 22, 2016
Honor, Love, and Betrayal ..
This story centers around the main character, Hraban , and is told in first person, the
life of a son of nobility.
The author has included a helpful of names and places that document historical events.
He also created descriptive imagery of the entire book setting and the dark forests.
Overall, the book was an engaging action filled story line.
I am interested in (Volume 2) and (Volume 3 ) of this series.
Clay Lomakayu did well with the narration. He had the perfect voice for the characters.
Note:
"This audio book was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review."
December 16, 2015
A very enjoyable read
A very enjoyable historical novel from a point of view we don't often see. Most novels of the period of the early Roman empire are from the Roman point of view, this from the German. Lots of fast paced action and a complex main character. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
A very enjoyable historical novel from a point of view we don't often see. Most novels of the period of the early Roman empire are from the Roman point of view, this from the German. Lots of fast paced action and a complex main character. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
June 6, 2016
I think the book was just awesome, a little confusing in the beginning but when you get the hang of it god only knows what makes this book bad. Definitely a welcome change to my old Mexican books I've been reading my entire life 5/5
August 13, 2016
Good Story
This was a complicated plot with so many traitorous internal plots an characters. The action scenes are well-written. There could be more and better descriptions of settings and scenery.
This was a complicated plot with so many traitorous internal plots an characters. The action scenes are well-written. There could be more and better descriptions of settings and scenery.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews