What do you think?
Rate this book
Hakon's Saga #3
War King
It is 954 A.D. and a tempest is brewing in the North. Twenty summers before, Hakon Haraldsson wrested Norway’s throne from his murderous brother, Erik Bloodaxe, but he failed to rid himself of Erik’s family. Now the sons of Erik have come to reclaim Erik’s former throne and avenge the wrong done to their father and their kin. But they do not come alone. With them marches an army of sword-Danes sent by the Danish King, Harald Bluetooth, whose desire to expand his realm is as powerful as the lust for vengeance that pulses in the veins of Erik’s brood. Like storm-driven waves, the opposing forces collide in War King; and when they do, Hakon is left with no choice but to face the tempest and resist.
527 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2018
245 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Eric Schumacher
23 books149 followersEric Schumacher (1968 - ) is the author of multiple bestselling historical fiction novels and one novella, all set in the Viking Age.
Schumacher discovered his love for writing and medieval European history at a very early age, as well as authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Bernard Cornwell, Jack Whyte, and Wilbur Smith. Those discoveries fueled his imagination and continue to influence the stories he tells. His first novel, God's Hammer, was published in 2005.
Schumacher now resides in Santa Barbara with his wife and two children.
You can follow Eric Schumacher on Amazon or by joining his newsletter at https://www.ericschumacher.net/reader....
Schumacher discovered his love for writing and medieval European history at a very early age, as well as authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Bernard Cornwell, Jack Whyte, and Wilbur Smith. Those discoveries fueled his imagination and continue to influence the stories he tells. His first novel, God's Hammer, was published in 2005.
Schumacher now resides in Santa Barbara with his wife and two children.
You can follow Eric Schumacher on Amazon or by joining his newsletter at https://www.ericschumacher.net/reader....
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 22, 2024
3.75 stars
August 11, 2023
A must read!!
Wow wow that was one amazing read. This hit all the marks. The writer has out did him self. This one hell of a fine series.
Wow wow that was one amazing read. This hit all the marks. The writer has out did him self. This one hell of a fine series.
December 27, 2018
The Coffee Pot Book Club Historical Fiction Book Of The Year 2018 — Finalist.
Hakon Haraldsson has had enough of war and death. But, for this Christian King, an act of compassion could lead to his downfall. For the sons of his brother, Erik Bloodaxe, seek revenge and the throne that Hakon won. This time, the sons of Bloodaxe would not come alone.
War King — Hakon’s Saga Book 3 by Eric Schumacher is the dramatic conclusion to what has been the most fabulous series. Filled with complicated political intrigue, questionable allegiances and vivid battle scenes, this story, and indeed this series, would be a real treat for readers who have enjoyed Michael Hirst’s fabulous Vikings.
There is a wonderful authenticity to this story. From the historical setting to the characters themselves, there is a strong sense of realism. Hakon is not an old man in this story, but the years of countless battles have taken a toll on his health, not only physically but in a sense mentally as well. He has had enough of all the killing. He is very human in the telling.
This book left me in tears on several occasions, due to the terrible things that happen to Hakon. I am not going to give away any spoilers, but before one battle, Hakon has to make a terrible life or death choice. It was truly heartbreaking.
The story, as with all the books in the Hakon series, was well paced, and really drew me into the Viking world in which it is set. This isn’t just a book where there is one battle after another. There are softer, quieter moments, which complements the wars and the violence. I think this is a fabulous portray of Hakon Haraldsson and his life. Mr Schumacher has obviously spent many hours researching this fascinating man and the way of life during this era. Kudos, Mr Schumacher.
There is a useful Glossary of Viking words, tribes and Gods at the beginning of the book, but so engrossed was I with the story, that I did not once look at it! The Historical Notes at the back of the book was very interesting, and I am now more intrigued than ever by the wonderful, yet complex, Hakon Haraldsson.
War King — Hakon’s Saga Book 3 is a masterpiece of well-executed historical fiction.
I Highly Recommend.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
Hakon Haraldsson has had enough of war and death. But, for this Christian King, an act of compassion could lead to his downfall. For the sons of his brother, Erik Bloodaxe, seek revenge and the throne that Hakon won. This time, the sons of Bloodaxe would not come alone.
War King — Hakon’s Saga Book 3 by Eric Schumacher is the dramatic conclusion to what has been the most fabulous series. Filled with complicated political intrigue, questionable allegiances and vivid battle scenes, this story, and indeed this series, would be a real treat for readers who have enjoyed Michael Hirst’s fabulous Vikings.
There is a wonderful authenticity to this story. From the historical setting to the characters themselves, there is a strong sense of realism. Hakon is not an old man in this story, but the years of countless battles have taken a toll on his health, not only physically but in a sense mentally as well. He has had enough of all the killing. He is very human in the telling.
This book left me in tears on several occasions, due to the terrible things that happen to Hakon. I am not going to give away any spoilers, but before one battle, Hakon has to make a terrible life or death choice. It was truly heartbreaking.
The story, as with all the books in the Hakon series, was well paced, and really drew me into the Viking world in which it is set. This isn’t just a book where there is one battle after another. There are softer, quieter moments, which complements the wars and the violence. I think this is a fabulous portray of Hakon Haraldsson and his life. Mr Schumacher has obviously spent many hours researching this fascinating man and the way of life during this era. Kudos, Mr Schumacher.
There is a useful Glossary of Viking words, tribes and Gods at the beginning of the book, but so engrossed was I with the story, that I did not once look at it! The Historical Notes at the back of the book was very interesting, and I am now more intrigued than ever by the wonderful, yet complex, Hakon Haraldsson.
War King — Hakon’s Saga Book 3 is a masterpiece of well-executed historical fiction.
I Highly Recommend.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
December 4, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this series! War King book 3 of Hakon’s Saga finished up the “loose ends” of the first two books and ended in a way that left me bleary eyed. The characters are so amazingly written that I was transformed into their realm and actually felt their emotion. I highly recommend this series and this writer.
February 3, 2021
I cried when I reached the end of this book, because I wanted more! Mr. Schumacher is one of my new favorite authors and I rank him right up there with Bernard Cornwell and Sharon Kay Penman. How do you know when a book is good? When you stay up way past your bedtime because you just have to read one more chapter, when you find yourself skimming ahead because you can't stand the anticipation, when you find yourself thinking about scenes from the book! Mr. Schumacher grabs you and brings you right into the world of Hakon Haraldsson, so much so that you daydream about it. I did read the first book of his other series - Forged by Iron - and now have to anxiously wait until the next one in the series is published. I need my Eric Schumacher fix!!!
October 29, 2018
Having read and enjoyed the first two books of this trilogy, I was very much looking forward to the finale. I was not disappointed. This is a tale full of irony, as well as the full force of life in a brutal, and oft confusing time. Hakon had been warned and counseled to kill the sons of Eric Bloodaxe, but he refused to do it, wanting to end the blood feud. Well, that didn't work out too well, as they came seeking vengeance and glory.
The historical record of Hakon and his struggles to keep his kingdom is sparse, leaving the author with plenty of room to be creative, which he does in a most entertaining fashion. The battles are full of the bluster, the camaraderie, the smells, the screams, the dying, and the glory of victories. The lives of the people, their struggles to survive, the oaths they have sworn, the harsh conditions one finds in the Northland, as well as it's beauty are perfect backdrops to the cares, happiness, love, and soul searching which permeate Hakon's life. All in all, a fitting end to the story of an enigmatic Norse King, a man seeking peace in a world where peace is fleeting, and often short-lived. 5 stars
The historical record of Hakon and his struggles to keep his kingdom is sparse, leaving the author with plenty of room to be creative, which he does in a most entertaining fashion. The battles are full of the bluster, the camaraderie, the smells, the screams, the dying, and the glory of victories. The lives of the people, their struggles to survive, the oaths they have sworn, the harsh conditions one finds in the Northland, as well as it's beauty are perfect backdrops to the cares, happiness, love, and soul searching which permeate Hakon's life. All in all, a fitting end to the story of an enigmatic Norse King, a man seeking peace in a world where peace is fleeting, and often short-lived. 5 stars
August 10, 2020
Hakon Haraldson
I suppose Hakon had to do what he had to do. Very rarely have I read such a story that will stick with me for some time, and I'm glad of that. I enjoyed this series very much! Thank you!
I suppose Hakon had to do what he had to do. Very rarely have I read such a story that will stick with me for some time, and I'm glad of that. I enjoyed this series very much! Thank you!
July 23, 2020
With “War King: Hakon’s Saga 3,” author Eric Schumacher concludes an action-packed and yet thoughtful series. Now middle-aged and accomplished, Hakon faces new threats from the sons of his half-brother, Erik Bloodaxe, the Viking monarch he deposed many years earlier. A formidable and intelligent ruler, King Hakon nonetheless is torn between two cultures he can never reconcile. Schumacher is faithful to his historical sources, but even the scenes and situations he creates have the ring of truth. Very powerful ending.
January 13, 2021
How does one write a review about a perfect novel where the research shines through his descriptions and the characters take on a life of their own? Hakon Haraldsson, the first Christion king of Norway still rules the realm of Erik Bloodaxe, but his sons arrive in force to retake it. The battles are epic. The destruction and suffering across the land almost unimaginable and still they fight on. This is an adventure, yet a historical novel of epic portions.
July 6, 2020
Awesome series
Gripping tale of the Norse King Hakon Haraldson. Intrigue, history & great battles vie with vivid descriptions of the land and lives of these Norsemen. I highly recommend this series
Gripping tale of the Norse King Hakon Haraldson. Intrigue, history & great battles vie with vivid descriptions of the land and lives of these Norsemen. I highly recommend this series
June 19, 2021
War King
Five stars are not enough. Could not put this book down. Thank you, Mr. Schumacher, for the wonderful story of King Hakon the Good.
Five stars are not enough. Could not put this book down. Thank you, Mr. Schumacher, for the wonderful story of King Hakon the Good.
May 4, 2022
Excelent
After reading his Saga I have a New favorite writer!
Let's hope this thrill continues, I Will start searching for another saga
After reading his Saga I have a New favorite writer!
Let's hope this thrill continues, I Will start searching for another saga
March 23, 2020
Acredito que existe somente um problema principal na trilogia como um todo. O autor se baseia em fatos históricos para criar o enredo mas como é algo muito antigo as informações são escarças e por consequência ele tem que criar todas as justificativas para as ações dos personagens. E é isso é onde o autor falha pra mim. De maneira geral ele cria bons personagens e tem uma ótima escrita mas os plots parecem rápidos e apressados, não consigo sentir uma construção e um pay off para os conflitos, o que torna muitas coisas sem sentido e previsíveis, estragando os bons momentos que existem no livro. Não é um livro ruim como um todo mas as falhas me incomodaram demais para ignorar, e infelizmente não recomendaria para ninguém já que por já ter lido Cornwell e Iggulden, mestres da ficção histórica, a diferença no nível da historia é grande demais.
July 22, 2021
As this Story Tells it, I Don’t Like Hakon
This is one miserable person who is not, in any way, shape, or form, a Great King. He is petty, a very limp-spined young king to be that killed many of his men because of inexperience.
As a king in his prime he had a Big Ego and a temper that rooked no question by those who had good, valid input. But Hakon just ignored it and got angry if he didn’t like it.
As a king past his physical prime he was obstinate, maudlin at his long time friends getting bumped off, and was back to being a Super Gloomy Gus who forgot just who got him into the kingship (Hint: it wasn’t his poor head work and allowing a family of killers go free, only to have them return to devastate Old Norway and drive back the advance of the Nordic culture.
At the end he was a petty tyrant in all but name.
This is one miserable person who is not, in any way, shape, or form, a Great King. He is petty, a very limp-spined young king to be that killed many of his men because of inexperience.
As a king in his prime he had a Big Ego and a temper that rooked no question by those who had good, valid input. But Hakon just ignored it and got angry if he didn’t like it.
As a king past his physical prime he was obstinate, maudlin at his long time friends getting bumped off, and was back to being a Super Gloomy Gus who forgot just who got him into the kingship (Hint: it wasn’t his poor head work and allowing a family of killers go free, only to have them return to devastate Old Norway and drive back the advance of the Nordic culture.
At the end he was a petty tyrant in all but name.
November 14, 2018
Good historical fiction
I enjoyed all three books in the series. Plenty of action and the tales feel authentic. I like that the series came to a clear ending and the author didn't try to drag this out. I was afraid the series would be overloaded with Christian proselytizing but that was not the case. It was kept to the sidelines and the old gods were there to the end with Valhalla waiting.
I enjoyed all three books in the series. Plenty of action and the tales feel authentic. I like that the series came to a clear ending and the author didn't try to drag this out. I was afraid the series would be overloaded with Christian proselytizing but that was not the case. It was kept to the sidelines and the old gods were there to the end with Valhalla waiting.
April 10, 2019
War King has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
This was a well written book, with an absorbing story-line. Although it was the third book in a series it worked well as a stand alone novel. The author has carefully research the period and has filled out the sparse surviving knowledge in a plausible manner.
Pauline Barclay - Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
www.chillwithabook.com
This was a well written book, with an absorbing story-line. Although it was the third book in a series it worked well as a stand alone novel. The author has carefully research the period and has filled out the sparse surviving knowledge in a plausible manner.
Pauline Barclay - Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
March 26, 2025
War King
Well, I never expected that. The story finishes very quickly with our hero the King dying after a very hard fought battle that he had in fact won but he was wounded. A wound that obviously proved fatal. This book, like the others in this series, was full of action and adventure. What times these men lived in, how quickly death would arrive when they fought face to face. Anyway, an excellent series which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Well, I never expected that. The story finishes very quickly with our hero the King dying after a very hard fought battle that he had in fact won but he was wounded. A wound that obviously proved fatal. This book, like the others in this series, was full of action and adventure. What times these men lived in, how quickly death would arrive when they fought face to face. Anyway, an excellent series which I thoroughly enjoyed.
January 6, 2019
Couldn't put them down.
Just read the series in a few days. Knew nothing about Hakon whatsoever. It's difficult to know much about this time in history as very little was written down. This series was based on what facts are known about Good King Hakon Haraldson and the rest is added by Eric Schumacher. Excellent is all I can say. 10 out of 10. I loved this series.
Just read the series in a few days. Knew nothing about Hakon whatsoever. It's difficult to know much about this time in history as very little was written down. This series was based on what facts are known about Good King Hakon Haraldson and the rest is added by Eric Schumacher. Excellent is all I can say. 10 out of 10. I loved this series.
June 29, 2022
A fitting end to the saga.
An excellent conclusion to the saga of Hakon. Eric really has a deep knowledge of the Viking world and this comes across with clarity. You really feel that you are reading a true account even though it is largely fiction. Would recommend to all historical fiction fans.
An excellent conclusion to the saga of Hakon. Eric really has a deep knowledge of the Viking world and this comes across with clarity. You really feel that you are reading a true account even though it is largely fiction. Would recommend to all historical fiction fans.
October 21, 2018
Enjoyable saga!!
I really enjoyed this series and look forward to more works from Mr. Schumacher. The detail and settings along with the action kept a fast pace and made reading these novels a pleasure.
I really enjoyed this series and look forward to more works from Mr. Schumacher. The detail and settings along with the action kept a fast pace and made reading these novels a pleasure.
November 12, 2018
A marvellously exciting trilogy ! Well-written and absorbing.Gory in places, but we know from history that’s how it was in those times. A bit difficult to imagine a young teenager accomplishing such feats as Hakon a is ed in his early years .....
December 11, 2018
Great Saga!
By the 3rd Book the battles became a bit repetitive, but still a great story. As many character names are the same, or similar, I would recommend that the books be read in order. The descriptions of violent acts may not be for the squeamish.
By the 3rd Book the battles became a bit repetitive, but still a great story. As many character names are the same, or similar, I would recommend that the books be read in order. The descriptions of violent acts may not be for the squeamish.
February 12, 2019
Great books.
All three books are well written and it seems he tries to keep to historical facts, his extra characters fit well with the historical truths. I recomend books hole heartedly.
All three books are well written and it seems he tries to keep to historical facts, his extra characters fit well with the historical truths. I recomend books hole heartedly.
April 14, 2019
The story ends
This is the completion of the saga and continues the story line set in the previous books. The known facts are reasonably well represented and literary licence has been taken to fill in the gaps. I don't always agree with those choices, but it is a good story.
This is the completion of the saga and continues the story line set in the previous books. The known facts are reasonably well represented and literary licence has been taken to fill in the gaps. I don't always agree with those choices, but it is a good story.
August 28, 2019
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"Hakon took the kingdom into his own hands after the death of the previous ruler and exiled his sons instead of killing them as he was urged to do. (Maybe that was why he was called The Good)."
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"Hakon took the kingdom into his own hands after the death of the previous ruler and exiled his sons instead of killing them as he was urged to do. (Maybe that was why he was called The Good)."
September 25, 2019
Great Trilogy!!!
Much in same style and intensity of Bernard Cornwell, Schumacher tells a riveting tale of the Viking age with intricate characters and wonderful battle scenes. A great story told by a great storyteller!
Much in same style and intensity of Bernard Cornwell, Schumacher tells a riveting tale of the Viking age with intricate characters and wonderful battle scenes. A great story told by a great storyteller!
May 24, 2020
The ultimate warrior
This was a book I couldn’t put down. I loved the characters, the story line and a three books in the saga. I was extremely upset in the end, but what happened I expected.
This was a book I couldn’t put down. I loved the characters, the story line and a three books in the saga. I was extremely upset in the end, but what happened I expected.
October 18, 2018
A terrific read! A good continuation of Hakon's story that I could not put down. Fans will not be disappointed.
October 28, 2018
Epic Story
Hakon's saga is epic. Great read. Wonderful character development. Sad ending but not unexpected given the lives and times involved.
Hakon's saga is epic. Great read. Wonderful character development. Sad ending but not unexpected given the lives and times involved.
November 2, 2018
I fitting end!
As with the other novels in the series, you will not want to put it down. It was a great end to the trilogy.
As with the other novels in the series, you will not want to put it down. It was a great end to the trilogy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews