The Viking Priest

by Linda Kay Dahlén

By AD 1000, feared and fierce Norse explorers had sailed as far as present-day Canada, bringing with them an exchange of goods and customs, technology and theology. At a time when Christianity was rapidly replacing ancient Norse religion and culture, one young convert, Brand, affects history in more ways than he could have ever expected.

Follow Brand the priest as he embarks on unexpected journeys, crossing the dangerous North Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea ... and finally to Mesoamerica and the Toltecs who rule there.

Even if he can survive the perilous seas, this priest will then have to confront and wrestle with the questions of his own heart. Who do we love and why? How do we keep a sacred vow? And when it comes to love, when are vows worth breaking?

From back cover

436 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2018

Reviews

[Kelly Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you are a fan of Vikings or historical fiction or otherwise, you won't be disappointed in this book. Indeed, its main downfall is that more people should know about it. If you need proof that a self published novel can be amazing, here it is!
Carefully researched historical fiction on the Viking era, this story spans several years and traverses multiple continents. The author weaves together multiple varying story elements and characters into a tale so vivid, one can see and feel the story unfolding as if within its midst.
The protagonist is Brand, a viking lad who witnesses human sacrifice at the hands of pagan Norse priests involving his own family members. Traumatized by his experience, he flees to the shelter of a nearby monastery where the monks take him into their place of refuge. Over time, Brand becomes a devoted follower of the Christian God known as the White Kristr.
Through the course of the story Brand is sent on challenging missions and is faced with serious difficulties including hostile leadership, a perilous shipwreck, and an attack by savage pirates. Throughout his journey, he remains faithful to his God. No struggle seems as great as the challenge to keep his priestly vow of chastity. At times his anguish feels tangible.
Dahlen’s epic tale will appeal to readers of faith. Scripture references and Christian themes abound through the course of the journey. However, some readers will undoubtedly find fault with the introduction of a controversial topic in the middle of the book. When this vein of the tale comes to a close, the reader is left to ponder, “Are not these controversial figures also capable of love?”
The author presents the adventures of the characters in a way that is not only exciting but quite plausible. I especially enjoyed the encounters with people of vastly different cultures, from an Arab doctor to South American tribesmen. Indeed, Vikings got around!
I found myself emotionally connected with the main characters. Though this title is lengthy, I was disappointed when the story was over. I wanted to more. This title is a worthy read!

[Carole Frank · Rating 1 out of 5]

I didn’t much like this book, although I did finish it. I thought it was going to be about the Norse community in around 1000AD, but it was just another romance. Meh! It was pretty unbelievable too - for me a story has to be credible. I am sure the author did her research and that Norse explorers did reach Mexico - but it seemed that too many convenient coincidences made everything happen. Also, I did not like the style of writing. All in all, one star for what is obviously a self-published book.

[Bonnie J. Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Great story line that builds on the oral history of the natives of Central America and the Norse. Very plausible

[J. Else · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fleeing from home after his father’s death, Brand travels from Sweden to England. He wants to learn more about the god who offers forgiveness and love. The gods from his homeland demand blood and sacrifice, claiming the life of his father. He arrives at a monastery and learns of the White Kristr. Eventually, Brand becomes a monk, and his mission work takes him to faraway lands where he meets dynamic people and cultures. Many times, the road becomes arduous. Will faith be enough to help Brand overcome public humiliation, imprisonment, slavery, and being stranded in an unknown land?

This story is epic in scope, encompassing multiple countries around 1000 AD. I was impressed with the amount of research infusing the varied cultures and landscapes. Architecture, clothing, technology, medical practices, religion, and socioeconomics are all richly brought to life and will keep readers engaged. Brand crosses paths with historical figures including Erik the Red, Olaf Trygvasson, and Leif Erikson, to name a few. The map at the front of the book was greatly appreciated, illustrating the breadth of our main character’s travels.

This is largely a story of faith in the Christian God, and Brand is challenged throughout the novel in deeply spiritual and emotional ways. Dahlen is mindful of the details and does a great job reflecting poignantly on the journey of Brand’s life. Be prepared for adventure, love, sacrifice, and the making of a legend as one man seeks to spread the love of God throughout the world.

Review originally posted via the Historical Novel Society at: www.historicalnovelsociety.org.