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Leofric #1
Leofric: Sword of the Angles
Denmark, AD 520. Fearing invasion, Cynefrid, the King of Angeln, summons a muster of fighting men to his eastern stronghold. Thegn Eadwig and his nephew, Leofric, answer the call, but they quickly become embroiled in the intrigues of the kingdom and a violent encounter leads to Leofric being charged with murder. This bloody act heaps ruin on Leofric and his family, and he is forced to flee to a remote sanctuary where he recovers his strength and plans the revenge that will ultimately reclaim his birthright.
Set in Angeln on the Jutland peninsula, ' Sword of the Angles' is a Dark Age adventure set against the background of the Germanic migrations that led to the creation of the new Angle, Jute and Saxon kingdoms in the east of Roman Britain - the Angle-Lands.
The short-story Sacrifice, set five years before Sword of the Angles, is also available on Amazon.
Set in Angeln on the Jutland peninsula, ' Sword of the Angles' is a Dark Age adventure set against the background of the Germanic migrations that led to the creation of the new Angle, Jute and Saxon kingdoms in the east of Roman Britain - the Angle-Lands.
The short-story Sacrifice, set five years before Sword of the Angles, is also available on Amazon.
413 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2015
About the author
S.J. Arnott
3 books7 followersS. J. Arnott is a UK writer, born abroad, who now lives in East Anglia. He’s worked as a freelance feature writer and magazine editor, and has had writing jobs in television and radio.
His favourite historical authors include George MacDonald Fraser (Flashman), C. S. Forester (Hornblower), Patrick O'Brian (Aubrey-Maturin), Bernard Cornwell (Sharpe), Alfred Duggan and Mary Renault.
The author’s avatar is a shield design based on one mentioned in Leofric: Sword of the Angles – the emblem of Leofric’s father, Radulf of the Three Ships.
You can find out more on his author website: www.sjarnott.com.
His favourite historical authors include George MacDonald Fraser (Flashman), C. S. Forester (Hornblower), Patrick O'Brian (Aubrey-Maturin), Bernard Cornwell (Sharpe), Alfred Duggan and Mary Renault.
The author’s avatar is a shield design based on one mentioned in Leofric: Sword of the Angles – the emblem of Leofric’s father, Radulf of the Three Ships.
You can find out more on his author website: www.sjarnott.com.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
July 6, 2015
‘We must be careful of broken things, Leofric son of Radulf. They often have jagged edges.’
The Long Land, Southern Scandinavia, 520 CE. Cynefrid, King of Angeln fears invasion. He summons a muster of fighting men to Haderslev. Amongst them are Thegn Eadwig and his nephew Leofric from Ketingas. Leofric, a sickly youth, is a reluctant traveller. But his uncle needs Leofric present as part of his contribution to the muster. Once in Haderslev, things do not go according to plan. A violent encounter leads to Leofric being charged with murder, and although a blood price is agreed and paid, Leofric has to flee the town. He finds a sanctuary where, after recovering his health and training hard, he sets out to clear his name.
‘It came to him then, what he could do, and how it might be done.’
Leofric’s journey is both physical and personal. In order to clear his name, he must be strong enough to fight. In order to be strong enough to fight, he must improve his health. And with the help of a number of people he meets along the way, Leofric is transformed from a sickly youth into a strong man and a potent warrior.
‘A man makes his own fate in the world; he does not beg for it.’
Once I started reading this story, I found it very hard to put down. Will Leofric survive? Will he find what he is looking for? Will he be able to clear his name? And what about the people such as Fulco, Sunniva, Turi and Asta who are part of his journey? There are plenty of unexpected twists in the tale, and it ends in a way which leaves me wanting more. Mr Arnott has created a believable and multi-dimensional world. The story combines adventure and intrigue with a touch of romance, in a believable historical setting.
Note: I bought a copy of this book after I was offered, and accepted, a copy for review purposes. I am glad that I did.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
The Long Land, Southern Scandinavia, 520 CE. Cynefrid, King of Angeln fears invasion. He summons a muster of fighting men to Haderslev. Amongst them are Thegn Eadwig and his nephew Leofric from Ketingas. Leofric, a sickly youth, is a reluctant traveller. But his uncle needs Leofric present as part of his contribution to the muster. Once in Haderslev, things do not go according to plan. A violent encounter leads to Leofric being charged with murder, and although a blood price is agreed and paid, Leofric has to flee the town. He finds a sanctuary where, after recovering his health and training hard, he sets out to clear his name.
‘It came to him then, what he could do, and how it might be done.’
Leofric’s journey is both physical and personal. In order to clear his name, he must be strong enough to fight. In order to be strong enough to fight, he must improve his health. And with the help of a number of people he meets along the way, Leofric is transformed from a sickly youth into a strong man and a potent warrior.
‘A man makes his own fate in the world; he does not beg for it.’
Once I started reading this story, I found it very hard to put down. Will Leofric survive? Will he find what he is looking for? Will he be able to clear his name? And what about the people such as Fulco, Sunniva, Turi and Asta who are part of his journey? There are plenty of unexpected twists in the tale, and it ends in a way which leaves me wanting more. Mr Arnott has created a believable and multi-dimensional world. The story combines adventure and intrigue with a touch of romance, in a believable historical setting.
Note: I bought a copy of this book after I was offered, and accepted, a copy for review purposes. I am glad that I did.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
July 8, 2015
It is fascinating to me that I keep finding books that deal with times and places that I have not visited. This time it is the early Middle Ages or the Dark Ages to some and the place is southern Scandinavia. Leofric is a sickly son of an Angle hero and the nephew of the Thegn, a devious man who convinces Leofric and their one handed servant to pose as mailed warriors in an upcoming muster; a scheme that has unforeseen consequences and which sets the tone and drama for the rest of the story as Leofric comes face to face with his fears in order to fulfill his wyrd or fate. The author has given us a glimpse into the lives of the various groups that inhabit that portion of Europe; most of these groups play a future role in the formation of Britain; first as raiders and later as conquerors and settlers. I hesitate to say too much so as to not rouse the Spoiler Police, but there is plenty of drama, twists in the plot, wonderful characters and scenic description to make this a most enjoyable read. Plus, the end of the book is not the end of the story, there will be more of Leofric to come and that my historical fiction friends is good news indeed. A solid 4 stars and a hearty Hooverbkreview recommendation.
February 8, 2021
Previewed
July 4, 2015
Leofric travels with his uncle Eadwig from Ketingas to the town of Haderslev, to a muster called by the King, Cynefid, as the threat of invasion hangs over Longland. From this point onwards, Leofric is involved in a series of events which lead to him fleeing the town, vowing to return only to clear his name.
This is a gripping, enthralling read. The plot has many twists and turns and is totally unpredictable and the story never drags. I was completely gripped by Leofric and his adventures, willing him to succeed.
The story is of a journey undertaken by Leofric; not just a physical journey, but also the journey of a transformation from a weak sickly youth, described by villagers as a half dead cripple, into a strong and brave warrior.
Leofric is plagued by many moments of self doubt, believing himself incapable of exacting justice. He remembers how as a sickly child he watched a grave being dug by his Uncle's servant. It is only as an adult that he realises the grave was intended for himself. In his darkest moments, he despairs, seeing omens in everything around him; a falcon hunting a hare, dead ravens in a sacred clearing. Although lacking in confidence, Leofric shows persistence and great courage, such as the time he rescues two servants from a blazing fire, comes to the aid of Fulco, and during his time at the raider's camp. He is resourceful and shows great initiative in finding a way out of a difficult situations. There are many times when he believes he can't go on any longer but he always finds the strength to continue. His love for Asta drives him on, but in his darkest moments, he cries for her.
He is helped by many people along his journey; Fulco teaches him many skills he will need as a warrior, Sunniva feeds and takes care of him, and Turi introduces him to steam baths, a practice which greatly improves his health.
Several of the characters recall their past lives which brings out their individual personalities and helps to explain the reasons for their behaviour.
Leofric is not a violent man but at times his wrath will be raised and he finds his dragon, the spirit which urges him onwards. This is made evident in one of the final scenes; a mesmerizing encounter with an old childhood friend.
The historical setting seems authentic and totally believable. The harshness of everyday life is skilfully conveyed. The Gods names are invoked often, sacrifices are made and death is never far away. When is in the need of rope, Leofric removes a noose from a hanged man. He is forced to defend himself many times. He passes by the Red Dolmen and arrives at a burial mound where a line of skulls have been placed; it is only later, he discovers who has placed them there and why. Life is hard but acts of kindness are common, such as when Eoforwine helps Leofric, and Sigmundr offers him advice.
Everyday life is well described, such as the market stalls and merchants in the town of Haderslev. The writing is vivid and imaginative and the author has created a fascinating world. This book has adventure, romance, and plenty of intrigue and suspense.
Leofric stayed with me long after I had finished this book. I hope there are more of his adventures to follow.
This is a gripping, enthralling read. The plot has many twists and turns and is totally unpredictable and the story never drags. I was completely gripped by Leofric and his adventures, willing him to succeed.
The story is of a journey undertaken by Leofric; not just a physical journey, but also the journey of a transformation from a weak sickly youth, described by villagers as a half dead cripple, into a strong and brave warrior.
Leofric is plagued by many moments of self doubt, believing himself incapable of exacting justice. He remembers how as a sickly child he watched a grave being dug by his Uncle's servant. It is only as an adult that he realises the grave was intended for himself. In his darkest moments, he despairs, seeing omens in everything around him; a falcon hunting a hare, dead ravens in a sacred clearing. Although lacking in confidence, Leofric shows persistence and great courage, such as the time he rescues two servants from a blazing fire, comes to the aid of Fulco, and during his time at the raider's camp. He is resourceful and shows great initiative in finding a way out of a difficult situations. There are many times when he believes he can't go on any longer but he always finds the strength to continue. His love for Asta drives him on, but in his darkest moments, he cries for her.
He is helped by many people along his journey; Fulco teaches him many skills he will need as a warrior, Sunniva feeds and takes care of him, and Turi introduces him to steam baths, a practice which greatly improves his health.
Several of the characters recall their past lives which brings out their individual personalities and helps to explain the reasons for their behaviour.
Leofric is not a violent man but at times his wrath will be raised and he finds his dragon, the spirit which urges him onwards. This is made evident in one of the final scenes; a mesmerizing encounter with an old childhood friend.
The historical setting seems authentic and totally believable. The harshness of everyday life is skilfully conveyed. The Gods names are invoked often, sacrifices are made and death is never far away. When is in the need of rope, Leofric removes a noose from a hanged man. He is forced to defend himself many times. He passes by the Red Dolmen and arrives at a burial mound where a line of skulls have been placed; it is only later, he discovers who has placed them there and why. Life is hard but acts of kindness are common, such as when Eoforwine helps Leofric, and Sigmundr offers him advice.
Everyday life is well described, such as the market stalls and merchants in the town of Haderslev. The writing is vivid and imaginative and the author has created a fascinating world. This book has adventure, romance, and plenty of intrigue and suspense.
Leofric stayed with me long after I had finished this book. I hope there are more of his adventures to follow.
March 3, 2016
The days are dark for Angeln. Surrounded by enemies and increasingly depopulated as her people flee to more peaceful fields in Britain, her king has seen fit to enlist one-time enemies as allies against the Danes. The outlook for Leofric is especially grim; his father is missing on campaign, and himself so sickly that his grave has already been dug. When the entire folk gathers at the king's city as a show of force to convince the Danes to keep their distance, matters grow far worse. A personal grudge leads to a bloodfeud, and Leofric finds himself kinless, destitute, and declared outlaw. His village burned, he must flee to the wilderness and find refuge among others left for dead. In time the sickly boy will find the courage and strength needed to claim vengeance for his murdered uncle and restore his family's lands.
Leofric: Sword of the Angles is a hero's-journey story set in dark-age Europe, at a time when Rome is dead but not buried, an age where the woods are dark and deep and home to monsters that require Beowulfs to slay them. War looms, though the combat of Leofric is almost strictly personal, limited to Leofric and a companion or two fleeing, fighting, or ambushing those who will not be happy until the young man is dead. Although the author acknowledges in his notes section that information on the Angles prior to their arrival in Britain is hard to come by, gaps are readily filled in by borrowing cultural references to the Franks and other Germanic tribes, and what details are available are worked in craftily; there is no awkward lecturing here, only a man pursuing his fate against a host of trouble. Some pieces of narrative are particularly mesmerizing, like the moment when Leofric's "dragon" awakes. This is his blood-heat, a surge of adrenaline and battle rage that allows him evade death and turn it on his enemies. Although he triumphs in part by the end, some unfinished business --an enemy who escaped to Britain -- begs for a sequel. Considering that Bernard Cornwell's Uhtred is on death's door these days (hovering about in the doorframe, actually), I would welcome more Leofric!
Related:
Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Stories, especially #3, Lords of the North
http://thisweekatthelibrary.blogspot....
Leofric: Sword of the Angles is a hero's-journey story set in dark-age Europe, at a time when Rome is dead but not buried, an age where the woods are dark and deep and home to monsters that require Beowulfs to slay them. War looms, though the combat of Leofric is almost strictly personal, limited to Leofric and a companion or two fleeing, fighting, or ambushing those who will not be happy until the young man is dead. Although the author acknowledges in his notes section that information on the Angles prior to their arrival in Britain is hard to come by, gaps are readily filled in by borrowing cultural references to the Franks and other Germanic tribes, and what details are available are worked in craftily; there is no awkward lecturing here, only a man pursuing his fate against a host of trouble. Some pieces of narrative are particularly mesmerizing, like the moment when Leofric's "dragon" awakes. This is his blood-heat, a surge of adrenaline and battle rage that allows him evade death and turn it on his enemies. Although he triumphs in part by the end, some unfinished business --an enemy who escaped to Britain -- begs for a sequel. Considering that Bernard Cornwell's Uhtred is on death's door these days (hovering about in the doorframe, actually), I would welcome more Leofric!
Related:
Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Stories, especially #3, Lords of the North
http://thisweekatthelibrary.blogspot....
August 27, 2015
Leofric is what I would call a wee bit of an anti-hero. He has the bad luck of a thrice cursed peasant, suffers with debilitating health issues and has the get-go of a snail.
Everyone around him equates his ill health to an overall weakness in character, and because they believe it Leofric believes it.
Luckily, despite all that he is a sympathetic chappy, who just always seems to draw the short end of the straw. The real issue with Leofric isn't really all of the above, although it has a lot to do with it, is the fact he hasn't found his inner dragon yet.
In essence this whole story is about Leofric becoming the man he was always intended to be. The reader follows him on his road to growth, which is filled with violence, murder, fear and the occasional bout of wit.
Arnott has created a main character with flaws and a propensity for failure. He doesn't look for trouble, but trouble sure finds him quite a lot. Something tells me Leofric will eventually rise like the phoenix from the ashes.
I found myself being drawn in by Leofric and his unusual story. I needed to know what else could possibly go wrong for him. How on earth was he going to make it to the end of the book?
Arnott knows how to reel you without you even realising it. It wasn't just his storytelling though, for me it was the way I connected as a reader to the main character. I am looking forward to reading the rest of his journey now that his inner dragon is starting to pipe up and breathe fire.
I received a free copy of this book, courtesy of the author, for purposes of review.
Everyone around him equates his ill health to an overall weakness in character, and because they believe it Leofric believes it.
Luckily, despite all that he is a sympathetic chappy, who just always seems to draw the short end of the straw. The real issue with Leofric isn't really all of the above, although it has a lot to do with it, is the fact he hasn't found his inner dragon yet.
In essence this whole story is about Leofric becoming the man he was always intended to be. The reader follows him on his road to growth, which is filled with violence, murder, fear and the occasional bout of wit.
Arnott has created a main character with flaws and a propensity for failure. He doesn't look for trouble, but trouble sure finds him quite a lot. Something tells me Leofric will eventually rise like the phoenix from the ashes.
I found myself being drawn in by Leofric and his unusual story. I needed to know what else could possibly go wrong for him. How on earth was he going to make it to the end of the book?
Arnott knows how to reel you without you even realising it. It wasn't just his storytelling though, for me it was the way I connected as a reader to the main character. I am looking forward to reading the rest of his journey now that his inner dragon is starting to pipe up and breathe fire.
I received a free copy of this book, courtesy of the author, for purposes of review.
August 4, 2015
Good, solid read about the Viking era by an author who is new to the Scandinavian historical fiction scene. I have read a bunch of early middle age Viking novels, but this was the first which was focused exclusively on land... back in the motherland... as opposed to the classic raids on the English coastline. Another nice twist - our hero is not your typical strong-armed warrior, but a bit of a weakling from a noble family who needs to find his inner strength. But still love the character of Leofric. I do wish the author could have spent some time developing a few other mainstay characters.
In summary, this book was good. I hope Arnott can give use a book #2 for Leofric.
In summary, this book was good. I hope Arnott can give use a book #2 for Leofric.
February 2, 2017
Great read!
It takes a few pages to get you hooked, but then you don't want to put it down. The names of characters and places are strange but actually add to the charm of the story.
It takes a few pages to get you hooked, but then you don't want to put it down. The names of characters and places are strange but actually add to the charm of the story.
January 20, 2023
I really loved the gritty historical elements and the protagonist's fight to discover his worth and his own 'dragon' in this story. Great duel at the end too - a thoroughly gripping read. 4 stars.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews