The Boy from the Snow

The Boy from the Snow #1

by Maria Johnson

Dark Ages England, 590AD. A Celtic warrior fights for his home. Can he tell friend from foe after his whole world changes?

Civil war brews within the northwest kingdom of Rheged, between the lakeland castle town of Gaeson and the mountain stronghold of Klumeck.
Meet Daniel, a soldier serving the king of Gaeson and the spirited and wise Princess Evelyn. Yet the mystery behind his earliest memories of being lost in the snow demands to be solved.

Then Daniel races to find the answers when secrets are uncovered, challenging everything he knows. Can he still fight, even if the lines of combat might change? As Daniel tries to choose between love, loyalty and what is right, the even greater threat of the Bernician Angles rises.

Fans of Dark Ages and medieval historical fiction are bound to enjoy this epic Celtic tale of adventure with romance. A gripping plot and relatable characters, with clean but realistic and exciting battle scenes.

Can Daniel convince Rheged to stand united? Otherwise, it may not stand at all…


What people are saying about The Boy from the Snow

‘Excellent writing, attention to detail creating memorable scenes and characters, you will be transported to 6th century Britain.’

‘The Boy from the Snow is a lovely blend of action, drama and romance and is a story that should appeal to a wide range of readers.’

‘If you’re a fan of historical fiction and/or tales of war and love, pour yourself a mug of mead and consider checking out Maria Johnson’s The Boy from the Snow. It just might warm your heart.’

Genres: Historical Fiction

373 pages, Paperback

Published January 25, 2018

About the author

Hi, I'm Maria Johnson (pen name) author of 4 published novels by Olympia Publishers, London.

They are a Dark Ages era historical fiction trilogy:: The Boy from the Snow, The Veiled Wolf and The Reckoning of Rheged.

I also have a stand-alone fantasy mystery for older children and adults, Lottie's Locket.

I'm also a Christian and a minister's wife.

As well as writing and reading, I also love swimming, spending time with friends and a good cup of coffee. Hope to meet and engage with you on Good Reads! :)

Reviews

[Heidi Gallacher · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an epic story.

Written from the point of view of protagonist Daniel, the reader is led through a time when he goes through great changes; at times Daniel can’t believe himself all that has happened to him in a few short months.
At the beginning he is a soldier fighting for his King and his Kingdom, proud to serve his country, helping to defend castle and his land and winning bloody battles with his skills and deftness with the sword.
He carries with him, always, the piece of material given to him by his first and only love, Princess Evelyn, whom he met in the snow as a young boy.
After being captured by an enemy kingdom, Daniel wakes up from a coma to find that things are really not how he thought they were ...
But his family and friends and everything he knows and loves are far, far away.
I highly recommend this tale set in long-ago times, full of honour, pride and allegiance yet also laced with treachery and betrayal. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Kayla Mansur · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this read. Compelling characters that you can't help but love and root for through the entire thing. Love the inclusion of female soldiers and great attention to detail in the battles. A charming love story that leaves you as anxious as the characters for the next meeting! Wonderful work. Can't wait to read the next.

[Laura Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first foray into historical fiction and you know what, I loved it! It took me a while to adjust to the different genre and writing style but it was a great book!

Set in the Dark Ages, there were some great twists and turns and battles with hints of faith and romance. Really looking forward to reading the next in the series!

[Kerri Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am just beginning to branch out into reading more of all genres.
Upon receiving this book, I wasn’t sure what to expect at first and for the first maybe chapter or so, had pretty much convinced myself I would not like it. Blah blah castles and battle scenes...
But not long after, I could not put it down!! The author gives such depth to the characters without overdoing it... As is my preference, the action sequences moved the story forward, yet did not drag on. The twists, the surprises!! Again not overdone! I was truly IN the book.
I will be one of the first ones to buy the next book.
The author truly wove magic through this story.

[M.A. Quigley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't usually read history fiction books, but I quite enjoyed Maria Johnson's debut novel The Boy from the Snow. The story revolves around Daniel, a soldier in the army of Gaeson who lives in North West Celtic England in 590AD. There is lots of action to keep the reader interested and wanting to know more. I won't spoil the plot, but Daniel makes a discovery and his life is changed forever. I am a slow reader so it doesn't reflect the book in anyway shape or form.

[R.R. Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maria Johnson's first novel is a triumph!

The Boy from the Snow follows the tale of Daniel, a citizen and loyal soldier of the kingdom of Gaeson. He battles valiantly alongside his trusted companions John, Aife and the Captain in defence of his beloved home, his king and treasured Princess Evelyn, against repeated attacks from the neighbouring kingdom of Klumeck. The setting of dark ages England, in the late 6th century, makes for an alluring yet dangerous world in which the safest place is firmly behind the town's walls.

Eventually the soldiers of Gaeson find themselves stretched thin in protecting their people, and have no choice but to call on the young to help hold the walls. One such young man called up to fight tragically falls in battle and leaves Daniel bereft - the loyal, generous side of his character is then shown as Daniel takes it upon himself to provide for the fallen's family, as well as supporting his own mother and beloved friend, Sarah. Having fended off the latest wave of attack and are hoping for a reprieve and time in which to recover, Princess Evelyn is endangered and Daniel is forced to frantically lead her away to safety, which, without giving spoilers - leads to a huge change in Daniel's life which can never be undone!

I really enjoyed reading this book, with its excellent pacing and very relatable characters - showing the goodness of humanity alongside the greed and deceit. The desire to protect his princess out of more than just duty makes for a compelling romantic side to the story, and his torn loyalties must surely strike a chord with all readers who must be able to relate to such a situation - though probably on less of an important scale than what Daniel faces! The mysteries woven into the tale are also a fantastic part of the plot, with Daniel's incomplete but vivid early memories of being lost fulfilling a key part of his identity later on as he discovers much more about himself than he could ever have dreamed.

In summary, The Boy from the Snow provides a healthy blend of battle scenes, romance, scheming, struggle for survival, mystery and split loyalties with themes of faith and devotion - definitely something for everyone within! I look forward to seeing how the story of Daniel, Evelyn and their compatriots develops with the next installment in the saga - The Veiled Wolf. A great read, Maria!

[S.S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was one of the best reads I had in the long time!

The Boy from The Snow is a great read! From the first page, it introduced me to the world of Gaeson, through Daniel’s eyes. He’s a brave and loyal soldier, that as the story progress faces challenges of reevaluating everything that ever knew. Though the changes are happening, he is very consistent and well written! The author explains the emotions and reasonings of Daniel’s actions absolutely marvelously, so I really cared about what will happen to him as I read through next pages.

Additional motives in the story, such as a history of Joshua, make it heart-wrenching and engaging. I truly loved the captain's character: I found him being Daniel’s great mentor and friend. I enjoyed his interactions from different perspectives as his mind about the solder was changing with circumstances, yet, though he never mentioned it, his actions seemed to prove that for the whole time he sought to find in Daniel that, what he himself always believed in.

There are plenty battles scenes in the book and twists in the plot, but these I found well balanced with the time for reflections. I never found a story to happen too fast, which allowed me to connect with character very well.

I highly recommend The Boy from The Snow for historical fantasy readers that seek for something deeper than just battles in their reads. It’s definitely for those who are keen to read about the struggles of the character thrown between kingdoms wars, lost identity, friendship and love.

[Zowie Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fantastic Historical Fantasy

I’ve been looking forward to reading this story since reading the blurb and it didn’t disappoint- in fact once I started this book, I couldn’t put it down! To start with, you see the world of Gaeson, through the eyes of a brave soldier called Daniel who takes you on an exciting and magical journey set in the past, full of kingdom wars, searching for identity, friendship and love.

Daniel fights loyally for his king while looking after his sick mother and helping the family of another friend who had been killed in battle. He is called ‘the boy from the snow’—by Princess Evelyn a long time ago, but since that time on has loved her.

The characters in the story are so likeable and although the story is full of exciting action and battle scenes, their is enough detail and discussion between the characters is written really well, enabling you to get to emotionally know and understand their actions more. I felt like I was with Daniel in everything he went through and experienced. The history of Joshua also pulled at my heart strings too! He was such a great character too.

The love portrayed between Daniel and Princess Evelyn is beautifully written too- adding romance and purpose to all of the actions taken. I felt so emotional at the end! I cannot wait to read the sequel and see where this relationship and final circumstances take me next!

I recommend this book for most ages- it’s wonderful!

[Moose Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of honor, loyalty, betrayal, and love, The Boy from the Snow by author Maria Johnson is a historical fiction novel that follows a soldier - Daniel, son of Kellan - on his journey of survival and self-discovery. Set in Northwest Celtic England, 590 AD, behind the backdrop of bloody battles and political deceit, at the heart of this epic tale is a love story.

With The Boy from the Snow, Johnson gives readers an easy-to-follow plot, plenty of action, and an honest and loyal main character they can root for from beginning to end.


For me, one of the things that stands out most about The Boy from the Snow is Johnson’s use of strong female characters. Princess Evelyn, along with Daniel’s friends Aife and Sarah, are critical to the storyline and are never overshadowed by the male characters in the book, not even on the battlefield. This is a story where the men respect females for their abilities and strength, which made me enjoy reading it even more. Female warriors are the bomb. Hoorah!

The Boy from the Snow is the first of its series and does a good job of piquing reader’s interest in following Daniel’s story into Johnson’s second novel, The Veiled Wolf.

All in all, if you’re a fan of historical fiction and/or tales of war and love, pour yourself a mug of mead and consider checking out Maria Johnson’s The Boy from the Snow. It just might warm your heart.

[Elizabeth Holland · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very well written story with a number of sub-plots. The story follows Daniel as he uncovers a life-changing secret. I'll be honest in saying that historical fiction is not my go-to genre but I loved the sound of this book. I really enjoyed the romantic sub-plot and the interaction between characters. The Boy from the Snow is very well written, well researched and the world-building is wonderful.

For me I felt there was a little too much going on. Lots of characters, lots of names of places and I found myself a little lost and overwhelmed at times. I suspect this is just a reflection of my own preference towards shorter books.

If you enjoy historical fiction then I would recommend this book!

[Deborah Klée · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit that I was hesitant about reading this book as I do not enjoy stories about battles and the 6th century is so distant it felt like reading fantasy. As soon as I started reading I was hooked. The writing is accomplished, transporting you to another time and place with attention to detail that creates atmosphere and has obviously been well researched. The characters are memorable and I am looking forward to spending more time with them in the other books in this series. The battles were well written but I still don't enjoy reading them - just a personal preference. I would recommend this book to readers of historical fiction and fantasy - although it is not fantasy, I think it would appeal.

[Liz Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyable, the suspense carries through to the last page. I am looking forward to reading more of Maria Johnson's writing. The characters are well drawn and spring to life. I think this story would suit all types of an adult audience, from teenager upwards. Lots more please!

Thoroughly enjoyable, the suspense carries through to the last page. I am looking forward to reading more of Maria Johnson's writing. The characters are well drawn and spring to life. I think this story would suit all types of an adult audience, from teenager upwards. Lots more please!

[M. Vess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Epic battles rage, as things go from bad to worse in the kingdoms. Daniel is a good soldier, honorable and fiercely loyal, but every loyalty is tested when his world is turned upside down by his enemies. He wrestles with his identity as he goes from who he thinks he is to who he must become if his people are to survive the coming war. The story is full of wonderful characters, and I loved how the author wove Daniel’s faith throughout every trial. Beautiful prose moves the story at a great pace. The romantic subplot was just enough without overtaking the action. I thoroughly enjoyed The Boy from the Snow, and look forward to reading more from this author.

[Lynne Pearson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A historical fiction book about Daniel, a soldier who lives in the beautiful landscape of Northwest Celtic England in 590 AD. Daniel fights against anyone who threatens the kingdom in which he lives and he's content with his life. However, he discovers a truth which turns his life upside down and makes him question everything he thought he knew. Loyalty, friendship, duplicity must all be considered if he is to find his way in life. A story written to engage and enjoy. Definitely worth a read.

[Kathleen Kalb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it! Drew me in from the opening battle scene, and didn't let me go until the wonderful finish. Incredibly well-researched and vivid, but still very accessible, readable historical fiction. You really feel like you are back in 6th Century Britain, experiencing everything with the characters. And about the characters: it's impossible not to root for Daniel "the boy from the snow," and hope that he and his crew come through all right. (No spoilers!) Histfic fans will love this, and so will anyone who enjoys a good story.

[Aildreda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has the feeling of an Arthurian tale but told from the close and personal view of a likeable narrator. Daniel starts off with a set and simple way of viewing his life. But as his circumstances begin to change and his perspective widens, so the reader's understanding grows with him. The author uses this very well--each time you think you know what's happening, a reveal shows yet another layer to the story. The historical details of this novel gave it a grounded sense of setting and always felt authentic.

[Barbie Schuchart-Carlisle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very surprising as I don't normally read or watch war stuff. It kept my attention and I was pleasantly impressed. Author, Maria Johnson even included spirituality in this book of pain and suffering. She even gives happy times during bad circumstances revealing brutal history. It normally hurts me to read about war because of all the pain. Thank you, Maria for making this an enjoyable experience.

[Gg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plot Twists Galore

Yes, there are raging battles between kingdoms—but this book is about so much more. I was held captivated by the intriguing storyline complete with relatable characters. “The Boy From The Snow” by Maria Johnson kept me on the edge of my seat flipping pages, but not wanting it to end—which leads me to book 2 “The Veiled Wolf” I’m looking forward to learning more about this great protagonist, Daniel.

[Caroline Vaught · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to be honest, this is a DNF at 53%
In reality, this is a really good book with some very interesting characters and a lovely world that the author built, but historical fiction isn't really my thing and I can't bring myself to finish a book I'm not in love with.
I definitely recommend for a historical fiction lover!

[Karen Heenan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would not be at all surprised to learn that this author grew up reading tales of King Arthur and 19th-century adventures, because the Boy from the Snow harkens back to those days-gone-by books, in a way that makes for a nostalgically enjoyable read.
The story is well plotted and moves at a good pace, and the characters are distinctly drawn.

[Brian Kitchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve always been interested in the Dark Age period of history and so when I saw that Maria Johnson’s novel was set in this period, I decided to give it a try. I wasn’t disappointed as she has written an interesting story which held my attention to the last page. The hero, Daniel, is a soldier in the army of Gaeson, a sub-kingdom of the larger kingdom of Rheged. I won’t spoil future reader’s enjoyment by giving the plot away, but one day, Daniel’s life is changed forever, with a discovery that forces him to question everything he knows. I wasn’t sure whether many women would have been soldiers in the time the book was set in, or whether hot baths would have been so readily available to everyone, but it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book. A good debut novel.

[M. Sheehan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a excellent book by Author Maria Johnson, the characters are wonderfully developed, the plot was gripping and kept me engaged throughout the entire story. I loved the period, the castle's, the dialogue, the descriptive battles, and of course the beautifully-crafted ending. Highly recommended!

[David Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moreish historical fiction with a wonderful celtic feeling.