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The Wanderer Chronicles #3
A Burning Sea
Erlan Aurvandil has turned his back on the past and his native Northern lands, taking a perilous journey to the greatest city in the world, Constantinople. But as his voyage ends, Erlan is brutally betrayed, captured and enslaved by a powerful Byzantine general. Meanwhile, Lilla Sviggarsdottir, Queen of Svealand, has lost her husband and with him, her father's kingdom. Her life in danger, Lilla escapes to find Erlan, the one man who can save her, following his trail to the very gates of Constantinople. But corruption infests the city, and a dark tide is rising against the Emperor from within his own court. As the shadows darken and whispers of war begin to strengthen, Erlan's fate becomes intertwined with that of the city. Are they both doomed to fall, or can freedom be won in the blood of battle?
496 pages, Paperback
First published September 3, 2020
11 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 26, 2020
I think this novel firmly cements what books one and two in The Wanderer Chronicles have already begun to uncover: Theodore Brun might just be historical fiction's next big thing.
In the third instalment of this wonderful series we are thrust into the heart of eighth century Byzantium, a city tottering on the abyss that Theodore paints with such a fine brush he almost transports you there. The supporting cast vary from the emperor himself to a legless street beggar, and from king to pauper each character brings this city and novel to life. The research and background work that has gone into the world building must have been intensive and detailed, and there really is nothing so satisfying as a reader in knowing the author has done their research, and its even better when they have the prose to bring it to life.
And so on to Erlan, or Hakan, or whatever he is calling himself these days! If I think back on the characters that have stayed with me over the years: The Bloody Nine; Druss the Legend; Jorg Ancrath; Bernard Cornwell's Derfel, the thing that makes them so memorable is that they had such a force of personality that you almost know how they are going to react to a situation before they do, you root for them on every page and face genuine disappointment when finishing their story, knowing there will be no more. I think Erlan is a character that will stay with me, long after this brilliant series draws to a close.
In the third instalment of this wonderful series we are thrust into the heart of eighth century Byzantium, a city tottering on the abyss that Theodore paints with such a fine brush he almost transports you there. The supporting cast vary from the emperor himself to a legless street beggar, and from king to pauper each character brings this city and novel to life. The research and background work that has gone into the world building must have been intensive and detailed, and there really is nothing so satisfying as a reader in knowing the author has done their research, and its even better when they have the prose to bring it to life.
And so on to Erlan, or Hakan, or whatever he is calling himself these days! If I think back on the characters that have stayed with me over the years: The Bloody Nine; Druss the Legend; Jorg Ancrath; Bernard Cornwell's Derfel, the thing that makes them so memorable is that they had such a force of personality that you almost know how they are going to react to a situation before they do, you root for them on every page and face genuine disappointment when finishing their story, knowing there will be no more. I think Erlan is a character that will stay with me, long after this brilliant series draws to a close.
May 26, 2020
In A Burning Sea, Theodore Brun, effortlessly takes us back to the eighth century, where his richly detailed and believable characters travel from the snow-wrapped mountains of Scandinavia all the way to the greatest city in the world: Byzantium.
Erlan, the single-minded warrior, is in search of redemption, while Lilla, Queen of Svealand, is looking for the man she loves and also a means to reclaim her kingdom from a treacherous usurper. Byzantium is a teeming hive of intrigue and betrayal and both Erlan and Lilla quickly find themselves embroiled in plots and treachery as the city is besieged by an implacable enemy that threatens not only the city, but the future of the very continent. Theodore Brun's writing is filled with nuance and humanity, jeopardy and violence. A Burning Sea is a dark and twisted journey into a distant time, where the only commodity that could not be bought was honour. This is epic historical adventure at its very best.
Erlan, the single-minded warrior, is in search of redemption, while Lilla, Queen of Svealand, is looking for the man she loves and also a means to reclaim her kingdom from a treacherous usurper. Byzantium is a teeming hive of intrigue and betrayal and both Erlan and Lilla quickly find themselves embroiled in plots and treachery as the city is besieged by an implacable enemy that threatens not only the city, but the future of the very continent. Theodore Brun's writing is filled with nuance and humanity, jeopardy and violence. A Burning Sea is a dark and twisted journey into a distant time, where the only commodity that could not be bought was honour. This is epic historical adventure at its very best.
July 29, 2021
Superb! Three books in the series so far. 14/15. I’d say that’s pretty fucking remarkable. Yes?
April 13, 2021
Leaving was his only option, but not the end of his sufferings. For someone had said it before: You will bear much pain, but you will never break. Now Erlan finds himself facing another loss: his days as a free man are over, alone in a strange land. His beloved, however, who stayed behind as a dutiful queen - and safe - has also lost her standing and faces great dangers. Desperate, she follows on his trail, hoping their paths will cross again. But new trials await them... and more pain. More battles. More loss.
Part of the magic in this series is that each new volume transports us to something that's simultaneously familiar and new. We have the same characters, but their circumstances changed. Their souls are the same, but new places and hardships open the door to new adventures. And, thus, what we get is a whole lot of new intrigues, battles and trials from a cast of people we already learned to love.
Although familiar in characters and in voice, it is also full of surprises. A new setting and a new set of circumstances give rise to a whole new succession of conflicts and dramas, losses and discovery, moments of lightness and emotional heartbreak. And, surrounded by shadows, dangers and doubts, Erlan must once again find new meanings for his path and for his own identity. Taking us on a journey where it is impossible not to feel for and with him.
And there is so much to feel! Everything may have changed, from the setting to the circumstances, but one thing remains the same: the emotionally devastating intensity that these characters and their tribulations provoke. There's love and loss, faith and magic, honour and treason and a whole new labyrinth of intrigue. And, through it all, a whirlwind of surprises where no one is spared. Not even the reader. Especially the reader.
As for the ending... it is, as usual, full of surprises, revelations and devastating intensity. And, once again, it doesn't seem to be a final conclusion, but the end of a stage after which a new path must open for our always so fascinating wanderer.
Intense, heartbreaking, fascinating and beautiful, it is impossible not to get pulled inside this story. And feel it. And live it. And never forget it. Infinite and unforgettable, it all comes down to this: pure ruthlessness. And pure genius.
**I received this book from Corvus in exchange for an honest review.
Part of the magic in this series is that each new volume transports us to something that's simultaneously familiar and new. We have the same characters, but their circumstances changed. Their souls are the same, but new places and hardships open the door to new adventures. And, thus, what we get is a whole lot of new intrigues, battles and trials from a cast of people we already learned to love.
Although familiar in characters and in voice, it is also full of surprises. A new setting and a new set of circumstances give rise to a whole new succession of conflicts and dramas, losses and discovery, moments of lightness and emotional heartbreak. And, surrounded by shadows, dangers and doubts, Erlan must once again find new meanings for his path and for his own identity. Taking us on a journey where it is impossible not to feel for and with him.
And there is so much to feel! Everything may have changed, from the setting to the circumstances, but one thing remains the same: the emotionally devastating intensity that these characters and their tribulations provoke. There's love and loss, faith and magic, honour and treason and a whole new labyrinth of intrigue. And, through it all, a whirlwind of surprises where no one is spared. Not even the reader. Especially the reader.
As for the ending... it is, as usual, full of surprises, revelations and devastating intensity. And, once again, it doesn't seem to be a final conclusion, but the end of a stage after which a new path must open for our always so fascinating wanderer.
Intense, heartbreaking, fascinating and beautiful, it is impossible not to get pulled inside this story. And feel it. And live it. And never forget it. Infinite and unforgettable, it all comes down to this: pure ruthlessness. And pure genius.
**I received this book from Corvus in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2020
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This book is a gripping historic, epic adventure novel, with a touch of the supernatural, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I have not read the previous two books in the series, but I had no problem reading this as a standalone. True, there are some minor references made which I didn’t comprehend, but otherwise I loved this epic fantasy! Honestly, I did not even notice the time fly by while reading it. The author jumps right into adventure from the first chapter.
Moreover, the author balances the character development and the fantasy adventure together in a beautiful way. I loved Erlan and Lilla as the main characters. Erlan is the perfect archetype, and you immediately root for him. He goes through a LOT in the story, from meeting the Bulgars, being dragged in the hole and travelling to Constantinople. However, at times, I liked Lilla more than Erlan and my heart went out to her. She goes through so much in the story to get back the kingdom after losing her husband. I also liked the supporting characters like Einar, Leo and Katāros. In fact, I really enjoyed Einar as I felt he lightened the tale with his humor.
Also, it is clear that the author has done his research for the world building. He also wrote the book in a simple, yet captivating way that just catches your attention. The chapters alternate between multiple story-lines with different characters, which gives us a bigger picture of what is happening. There’s a bit of supernatural, fantasy, and lots of action, adventure, politics, scheming and power.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. I feel I would have loved it even more had I read the previous books in the series.
September 2, 2020
Gripping. Gut-wrenching. Visceral. These are just a few of the words that come to mind in describing Theodore Brun’s brilliant new novel, A Burning Sea.
Set in the 8th century, the story takes the reader from the halls of Estonia to the great city of Byzantium. The protagonist, Erlan, seems a character at war with himself. A character searching for some sort of release in a world he cannot escape. Trailing him is Lilla, who needs Erlan’s help. They find each other in Byzantium on the eve of a fateful and historic attack by Arabs. The combination makes for a tale that is as sweeping as it is fast-paced. Action and intrigue abound, yet the story allows for some softer moments, too.
I particularly enjoyed the characters, who are etched in my memory like runes on a stone. Secondary characters can often get lost in an author’s devotion to the main characters, but not so here. They, too, shine in their own way. The plot is well-crafted, though there are moments it rises above the real to become surreal. I suppose that should come as no surprise to his fans. It surprised me, but did not take away from the story. I also got the sense that Mr. Brun has done his homework. As with much historical fiction, there are many shadows and blind spots where history is not known or is obscure or debated. Mr. Brun navigates these areas with precision, deftly lending color to that far-off time.
If you enjoy historical fiction and action with a slight twist of the supernatural, you will love this tale. Highly recommended.
Set in the 8th century, the story takes the reader from the halls of Estonia to the great city of Byzantium. The protagonist, Erlan, seems a character at war with himself. A character searching for some sort of release in a world he cannot escape. Trailing him is Lilla, who needs Erlan’s help. They find each other in Byzantium on the eve of a fateful and historic attack by Arabs. The combination makes for a tale that is as sweeping as it is fast-paced. Action and intrigue abound, yet the story allows for some softer moments, too.
I particularly enjoyed the characters, who are etched in my memory like runes on a stone. Secondary characters can often get lost in an author’s devotion to the main characters, but not so here. They, too, shine in their own way. The plot is well-crafted, though there are moments it rises above the real to become surreal. I suppose that should come as no surprise to his fans. It surprised me, but did not take away from the story. I also got the sense that Mr. Brun has done his homework. As with much historical fiction, there are many shadows and blind spots where history is not known or is obscure or debated. Mr. Brun navigates these areas with precision, deftly lending color to that far-off time.
If you enjoy historical fiction and action with a slight twist of the supernatural, you will love this tale. Highly recommended.
September 3, 2020
If you enjoy Fantasy with a new twist, and some truly astounding descriptions of times long past, with a wide cast that are gloriously individual then you will adore this!
The story is wonderfully easy to follow, but certainly needs to be read after the previous two books. For myself, this just sounded so GOOD that I had to read the previous books.
And wow was I glad that I did, because what a ride from start to very end! So MUCH fun to delve into!
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters, the action and suspense along the way that kept me guessing as to what would come next, the surprising turns the storyline took.
And the Characters! There are several that I loved to read about, even when the dark, twisty storyline made me seriously pray someone met a devastating end (no, I won’t tell you who, and I also won’t say whether they did or not hahaha) but seriously this was a brilliant series to read! I can’t wait to see what this author does next, because the story was so gloriously dark, it was perfectly fitting for the era it represented!
Certainly not a lighthearted fairytale, this story is one that snags and holds you tight because of the raw and intense honesty for what humanities previous cultures were like, while maintaining a fast and exciting plot that keeps you invested from start to very end!
The story is wonderfully easy to follow, but certainly needs to be read after the previous two books. For myself, this just sounded so GOOD that I had to read the previous books.
And wow was I glad that I did, because what a ride from start to very end! So MUCH fun to delve into!
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters, the action and suspense along the way that kept me guessing as to what would come next, the surprising turns the storyline took.
And the Characters! There are several that I loved to read about, even when the dark, twisty storyline made me seriously pray someone met a devastating end (no, I won’t tell you who, and I also won’t say whether they did or not hahaha) but seriously this was a brilliant series to read! I can’t wait to see what this author does next, because the story was so gloriously dark, it was perfectly fitting for the era it represented!
Certainly not a lighthearted fairytale, this story is one that snags and holds you tight because of the raw and intense honesty for what humanities previous cultures were like, while maintaining a fast and exciting plot that keeps you invested from start to very end!
July 15, 2020
Another outstanding read. What an epic adventure we are on. This book does not disappoint. I was quickly drawn back into a story of adventure, discovery, love, hate, power, purpose, mystery and freedom. Brun weaves a narrative that is raw, gritty, tough and emotive yet so believable it is seems it is historic fact. He transports you to a time and place where the world was so much bigger, but the truth no less small. Read it.....and the prequels -- a perfect tonic for these turbulent times.
October 28, 2020
The first two books of The Wanderer Chronicles, A Mighty Dawn and A Sacred Storm are two of my favourite historical fiction novels over the last few years. In this third chapter of Erlan Aurvandil’s life, the action moves away from the chieftain’s halls of the north to the great southern city of Miklagard.
Erlan continues to be haunted by the ghosts of his past. In the heat of a fight, he has no choice but to give himself over to his most basic instincts. He becomes a creature of pure id. In the dark recesses of his character, rage fuels violence which in turn creates more rage. It’s almost as if Erlan can’t function without the adrenalin rush he can only get in conflict. The only time he is free of crippling doubts and uncertainty is when he has a blade in his hands. I’ve been viewing Erlan more and more as a victim as his journey continues. He isn’t that old, still in his twenties, but he has seen so much violence and so much death he is suffering something not unlike post-traumatic stress. Psychologically, Erlan is more than a little broken. It makes him a fascinating character to follow.
I was pleased to see that Einar Fat-Belly also makes a welcome return. A man of vast appetites, he is the perfect counterpoint to Erlan. Einar’s hedonistic attitude to life and getting the most out of every second of it is refreshing.
Lilla Sviggarsdottir’s thread of the narrative focuses more on the bigger picture. Where Erlan and Einar are men of action, Lilla is more analytical. The queen of Svealand is a born diplomat. Using her natural skill as a politician, Lilla is prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure she maintains control of a situation. Again, this acts as a good counterpoint to Erlan’s more direct approach to obstacles. Lilla is the brains rather than the brawn.
It turns out that Constantinople is quite the political powder keg. Many view the Emperor’s throne with envious eyes. Conspiracies abound both inside and outside the vast city. Almost as soon as he arrives, Erlan finds himself slap bang in the middle of all this intrigue. One of my favourite things about the plot is the way the main villain’s character is revealed. Don’t worry, I’m not going to tell you who they are, you can discover that yourself. The thing that struck me though is how clear their motivation was. There is no mystery surrounding why they choose to do what they do, and I liked that approach. As with all the best villains they don’t see themself as a bad person. Their actions and reactions are completely justifiable in their eyes. Once I understood that motivation, if I’m honest, I didn’t entirely disagree with their reasoning.
Brun paints a truly evocative picture of Constantinople. It is bustling with life. The city is the crossroads of the world, where East meets West. Erlan can barely comprehend the scope of this vibrant, exotic place. You get a sense of the huge culture shock as he tries to understand a land that is all but alien to him. As tensions escalate and war begins to brew on the city’s doorstep, we start to get impressions of life under siege. When events ultimately come to a head, the battle scenes are violently chaotic. Erlan gets the opportunity to quench his bloodlust and I’d be lying if I didn’t say I loved every second. The final chapters had some nice awe-inspiring spectacle. If anything, I was hoping for a bit more but that might be down to my Celtic origins. We always have been fans of a good fight.
If you like your historical fiction visceral and gripping I would strongly suggest checking this book, and its predecessors, out. You’ll find there is a lot to enjoy here. I got back into reading historical fiction with the Hereward novels by James Wilde. Sadly, they are now finished, but Theodore Brun’s writing has more than filled that gap in my bookshelves.
Erlan continues to be haunted by the ghosts of his past. In the heat of a fight, he has no choice but to give himself over to his most basic instincts. He becomes a creature of pure id. In the dark recesses of his character, rage fuels violence which in turn creates more rage. It’s almost as if Erlan can’t function without the adrenalin rush he can only get in conflict. The only time he is free of crippling doubts and uncertainty is when he has a blade in his hands. I’ve been viewing Erlan more and more as a victim as his journey continues. He isn’t that old, still in his twenties, but he has seen so much violence and so much death he is suffering something not unlike post-traumatic stress. Psychologically, Erlan is more than a little broken. It makes him a fascinating character to follow.
I was pleased to see that Einar Fat-Belly also makes a welcome return. A man of vast appetites, he is the perfect counterpoint to Erlan. Einar’s hedonistic attitude to life and getting the most out of every second of it is refreshing.
Lilla Sviggarsdottir’s thread of the narrative focuses more on the bigger picture. Where Erlan and Einar are men of action, Lilla is more analytical. The queen of Svealand is a born diplomat. Using her natural skill as a politician, Lilla is prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure she maintains control of a situation. Again, this acts as a good counterpoint to Erlan’s more direct approach to obstacles. Lilla is the brains rather than the brawn.
It turns out that Constantinople is quite the political powder keg. Many view the Emperor’s throne with envious eyes. Conspiracies abound both inside and outside the vast city. Almost as soon as he arrives, Erlan finds himself slap bang in the middle of all this intrigue. One of my favourite things about the plot is the way the main villain’s character is revealed. Don’t worry, I’m not going to tell you who they are, you can discover that yourself. The thing that struck me though is how clear their motivation was. There is no mystery surrounding why they choose to do what they do, and I liked that approach. As with all the best villains they don’t see themself as a bad person. Their actions and reactions are completely justifiable in their eyes. Once I understood that motivation, if I’m honest, I didn’t entirely disagree with their reasoning.
Brun paints a truly evocative picture of Constantinople. It is bustling with life. The city is the crossroads of the world, where East meets West. Erlan can barely comprehend the scope of this vibrant, exotic place. You get a sense of the huge culture shock as he tries to understand a land that is all but alien to him. As tensions escalate and war begins to brew on the city’s doorstep, we start to get impressions of life under siege. When events ultimately come to a head, the battle scenes are violently chaotic. Erlan gets the opportunity to quench his bloodlust and I’d be lying if I didn’t say I loved every second. The final chapters had some nice awe-inspiring spectacle. If anything, I was hoping for a bit more but that might be down to my Celtic origins. We always have been fans of a good fight.
If you like your historical fiction visceral and gripping I would strongly suggest checking this book, and its predecessors, out. You’ll find there is a lot to enjoy here. I got back into reading historical fiction with the Hereward novels by James Wilde. Sadly, they are now finished, but Theodore Brun’s writing has more than filled that gap in my bookshelves.
October 7, 2020
The Wanderer Chronicles is a great addictive saga of the fight between the forces of good and evil written by an eminent storyteller. The Chronicles leads you through the realms of myth, legend, and history in ongoing suspense. In this capturing the cruelty and blend of magic and reality of the 8th Century.
From the first in the series A Mighty Dawn over the second book A sacred Storm to now the third A Burning Sea the writer’s hand gets stronger and stronger in using language as a fine paint brush bringing detailed life to the scenes, thoughts and emotions of the principal protagonists. The scenes are visual feasts in words. I was not reading a story; I was in it, in the physical battles between groups and armies and in the Wanderer's soul as he is torn between the forces of good and evil.
I must praise Theodore Brun for his thorough research and explanations in the books Historical Notes. This highlight his mastery in blending what is known about the factual history of the era in the Scandinavian and “Byzantine” world with the magical realism that was the reality of the people then. Not least in Scandinavia.
Be prepared for a lost night's sleep.
From the first in the series A Mighty Dawn over the second book A sacred Storm to now the third A Burning Sea the writer’s hand gets stronger and stronger in using language as a fine paint brush bringing detailed life to the scenes, thoughts and emotions of the principal protagonists. The scenes are visual feasts in words. I was not reading a story; I was in it, in the physical battles between groups and armies and in the Wanderer's soul as he is torn between the forces of good and evil.
I must praise Theodore Brun for his thorough research and explanations in the books Historical Notes. This highlight his mastery in blending what is known about the factual history of the era in the Scandinavian and “Byzantine” world with the magical realism that was the reality of the people then. Not least in Scandinavia.
Be prepared for a lost night's sleep.
March 9, 2021
THEODORE IS A GRANDMASTER.
In the first book of the Wanderer Chronicles, A Mighty Dawn, we meet Erlan, a troubled young man who after a horrific experience decides to strike out on his own to get away from his past, and hopefully discover a happier future.
In the quest to discover his new future, Erlan encounters the most appalling experiences.
He loses much, and gains very little, and yet, his ability to love very nearly matches his skills with both blade and fists.
What really captivated me in this entire series, is Theodore’s ability to make one feel as if you are part of the book.
I have been blind since birth, and although Theodore’s books are not available on Audible, I found myself totally immersed in the cast of Erlan, Lilla, and the rest of the protagonists, both good and bad.
Theodore Brun in my opinion, is one of the finest Viking story tellers.
Plenty of breath taking battle scenes, mixed with a sprinkling of fantasy, this series is a definite must read.
In the first book of the Wanderer Chronicles, A Mighty Dawn, we meet Erlan, a troubled young man who after a horrific experience decides to strike out on his own to get away from his past, and hopefully discover a happier future.
In the quest to discover his new future, Erlan encounters the most appalling experiences.
He loses much, and gains very little, and yet, his ability to love very nearly matches his skills with both blade and fists.
What really captivated me in this entire series, is Theodore’s ability to make one feel as if you are part of the book.
I have been blind since birth, and although Theodore’s books are not available on Audible, I found myself totally immersed in the cast of Erlan, Lilla, and the rest of the protagonists, both good and bad.
Theodore Brun in my opinion, is one of the finest Viking story tellers.
Plenty of breath taking battle scenes, mixed with a sprinkling of fantasy, this series is a definite must read.
September 29, 2020
This is an epic conclusion to The Wander Chronicles, a total pager turning, edge of your seat ride. It ties the plot together beautifully, it written with visceral honesty and incredible landscape. I cannot recommend it highly enough....GET YOUR COPY!!!!
October 20, 2020
Theodore Brun continues to build on his amazing world that blurs the line between the real and the surreal.
The 3rd book continues the adventures or misadventures of our reluctant hero Erlan as he is pushed both mentally and physically in a cruel and unforgiving world, where danger lurks around every corner
The 3rd book continues the adventures or misadventures of our reluctant hero Erlan as he is pushed both mentally and physically in a cruel and unforgiving world, where danger lurks around every corner
September 14, 2020
The first two episodes of the Wanderer series built a universe set in the world of the Vikings. The third book in the series is a striking contrast as 'A Burning Sea' takes Erlan and Lilla beyond their Nordic homelands to Byzantium (Constantinople), where the backdrop becomes the herculean clash between the Holy Roman Empire and the rising new power of Islam and what was the beginning of the Ottoman Empire. The scope and scale of this novel are truly epic, with a story-line which twists and turns yet hangs together beautifully. The trials and tribulations of Erlan and Lilla as they chart their own parallel journeys, are brutal yet redemptive. Brun interweaves their two individual stories giving the novel a narrative drive which makes it utterly gripping. In keeping with its predecessors, 'A Burning Sea' has an expansive cast of well-drawn characters in whom one one can easily become emotionally invested, although once again Brun is not afraid of killing off some of the best of them; fortunately he has plenty to spare. One thing I particularly appreciated was the vivid, detailed and historically accurate portrayal of the siege of Constantinople, and the rendered descriptions of what was at the time the greatest city in the world. I enjoyed the first two books, but this is undoubtedly the best of the three, both as a historical novel, and in its own right. Highly recommended.
September 18, 2020
Brun calls it A Burning Sea. I call it A Bloody Good Read. Most definitely the best of his three books to date. I have read too many books recently where the plot and the characters are too complex. This is certainly not one of them. I suppose that to call it simple risks sounding rude but it does mean that the reader can sit back and enjoy the ride more so than if you are constantly struggling to remember the names of overly long character lists. It is fast and furious from the start right up to last page. 48 hours to finish it - beats the 6 months that my previous book took to finish.
August 14, 2021
I have savored all three books in this series I can say all three of them are excellent many times I feel 2nd or third books disappoint this just keeps you wanting more.Many thanks to T.H.R.B your books have pride of place on my shelf books like yours inspire me to learn about the history of the real people and places in the the story, and in these strange times when travel is restricted I’m able to to time travel as well journey alongside your memorable characters I will certainly be onboard for your next one cheers .
December 28, 2023
Due to life, career change, pandemic alongside pregnancy and then learning the ropes of parenthood - I've not had much time to read my type of books - mostly it's been my daughter's books at bedtime.
But earlier this autumn I made a dedicated effort to FINALLY start the third volume in the ongoing trials and tribulations of Erlan the Wanderer. Especially as I'd had it since it was first published on my shelf and I was keenly aware it's sibling sequel has recently been released into the world.
I must confess - my memory is not what it was (which wasn't good anyway) since having a child so I could really only remember Erlan, and a one eyed dog - Lilla's character was a ghost to me. As were a lot of the events of the previous book, A Sacred Storm - mainly only recalling events of A Mighty Dawn.
However, by the time I had reached the point in the book that best reflects the striking cover design I was FULLY invested back with both these protagonists as their separate lives, misfortunes, pursuit of means or abilities to change said fortunes, and indeed their unfinished love for each other, leads the pair with various accomplices, travelling companions and allies (temporary or firm) as far from their native Northlands as a Norse person could get (although historically they did go much further BUT) - to the city of the Holy Roman Empire, Byzantium otherwise known as Constantinople, otherwise known as Miklagard and is today known as Istanbul.
They both find themselves within reach of their goal and ambition, but between them is a city of Christians under siege from Muslim Arabs, an Emperor who is juggling the very real threats within and outside of the walls, a system of politics and power that is unlike anything either Lilla or Erlan has experienced and if the city falls, so does their chance of success, along with their freedom and lives. Finding new allies and making new enemies, the environment that surrounds them is turbulent and unstable and it make yet shake their love to the core, for secret agendas and sacrifices do not make a good foundation.
The world in which Theo has placed us as readers is akin to the intrigue and drama of the Tudors times 100! There are so many fascinating new characters, both minor and major that really add to the flavour of this remarkable context. Each chapter has the most beautiful twists, turns, rises and falls - it is the most magical of roller coasters for one's emotions reading this. Readers are guaranteed to still love the traditional core cast and equally boo and hiss at the new antagonists, both obvious and traitorous. It really is a superb piece of storytelling, in an era of history and geography that may be unfamiliar to many when they think "Vikings" and I really like how Theo ALMOST sets up Erlan as the founding member of the Varangian Guards (if you read the Notes at the end you will learn how he nods to that most famous band of Scandinavians).
I truly got hooked into this book once I, and the characters, first witnessed Greek Fire in all it's awe and terror. And after that I couldn't stop reading - finishing the rest of the book in 3 hours and ending up in bed at 1am!
I am so glad I finally picked it up and opened its pages to rediscover the world within. Highly recommend for readers of A Sacred Storm and A Mighty Dawn. The fourth book in Erlan's tale, A Savage Moon, is out now! And I will endeavor to not leave it so long to read it as I have it's predecessor.
But earlier this autumn I made a dedicated effort to FINALLY start the third volume in the ongoing trials and tribulations of Erlan the Wanderer. Especially as I'd had it since it was first published on my shelf and I was keenly aware it's sibling sequel has recently been released into the world.
I must confess - my memory is not what it was (which wasn't good anyway) since having a child so I could really only remember Erlan, and a one eyed dog - Lilla's character was a ghost to me. As were a lot of the events of the previous book, A Sacred Storm - mainly only recalling events of A Mighty Dawn.
However, by the time I had reached the point in the book that best reflects the striking cover design I was FULLY invested back with both these protagonists as their separate lives, misfortunes, pursuit of means or abilities to change said fortunes, and indeed their unfinished love for each other, leads the pair with various accomplices, travelling companions and allies (temporary or firm) as far from their native Northlands as a Norse person could get (although historically they did go much further BUT) - to the city of the Holy Roman Empire, Byzantium otherwise known as Constantinople, otherwise known as Miklagard and is today known as Istanbul.
They both find themselves within reach of their goal and ambition, but between them is a city of Christians under siege from Muslim Arabs, an Emperor who is juggling the very real threats within and outside of the walls, a system of politics and power that is unlike anything either Lilla or Erlan has experienced and if the city falls, so does their chance of success, along with their freedom and lives. Finding new allies and making new enemies, the environment that surrounds them is turbulent and unstable and it make yet shake their love to the core, for secret agendas and sacrifices do not make a good foundation.
The world in which Theo has placed us as readers is akin to the intrigue and drama of the Tudors times 100! There are so many fascinating new characters, both minor and major that really add to the flavour of this remarkable context. Each chapter has the most beautiful twists, turns, rises and falls - it is the most magical of roller coasters for one's emotions reading this. Readers are guaranteed to still love the traditional core cast and equally boo and hiss at the new antagonists, both obvious and traitorous. It really is a superb piece of storytelling, in an era of history and geography that may be unfamiliar to many when they think "Vikings" and I really like how Theo ALMOST sets up Erlan as the founding member of the Varangian Guards (if you read the Notes at the end you will learn how he nods to that most famous band of Scandinavians).
I truly got hooked into this book once I, and the characters, first witnessed Greek Fire in all it's awe and terror. And after that I couldn't stop reading - finishing the rest of the book in 3 hours and ending up in bed at 1am!
I am so glad I finally picked it up and opened its pages to rediscover the world within. Highly recommend for readers of A Sacred Storm and A Mighty Dawn. The fourth book in Erlan's tale, A Savage Moon, is out now! And I will endeavor to not leave it so long to read it as I have it's predecessor.
September 2, 2025
“A Burning Sea” is the third installment in The Wanderer Chronicles, and while I found it to be the weakest of the trilogy so far, it's still a thoroughly enjoyable read—and one that proves Theodore Brun continues to be an underrated force in historical fiction.
We pick up the thread of Erlan Aurvandil’s saga as he flees the North, not as a conqueror, but as a fugitive—only to land in the gilded cage of Byzantium as a slave. The book quickly pivots from the icy brutality of Norse lands to the heat and grandeur of Constantinople, and Brun does an excellent job painting the contrast. The return of Lilla Sviggarsdottir is a welcome one; her character adds emotional depth and political stakes as she seeks Erlan’s help in reclaiming her kingdom.
Together, Erlan and Lilla become entangled in Emperor Leo’s desperate defense of the empire against a Muslim invasion, and their service to his cause becomes a complex trade-off: help him win his war, and he will help them win theirs.
While the pacing drags a bit in the middle, and the narrative lacks some of the raw power and mythic resonance of the first two books, A Burning Sea still has everything I love about this series: richly imagined settings, morally complex characters, and a story that blends history and legend in just the right proportions.
I'm honestly surprised this series doesn't get more attention. If you’re a fan of Bernard Cornwell or Giles Kristian, or if you enjoy your historical fiction with a touch of myth and mysticism, you should absolutely give The Wanderer Chronicles a shot.
Excited to dive into book four and see where Erlan’s journey takes him next.
We pick up the thread of Erlan Aurvandil’s saga as he flees the North, not as a conqueror, but as a fugitive—only to land in the gilded cage of Byzantium as a slave. The book quickly pivots from the icy brutality of Norse lands to the heat and grandeur of Constantinople, and Brun does an excellent job painting the contrast. The return of Lilla Sviggarsdottir is a welcome one; her character adds emotional depth and political stakes as she seeks Erlan’s help in reclaiming her kingdom.
Together, Erlan and Lilla become entangled in Emperor Leo’s desperate defense of the empire against a Muslim invasion, and their service to his cause becomes a complex trade-off: help him win his war, and he will help them win theirs.
While the pacing drags a bit in the middle, and the narrative lacks some of the raw power and mythic resonance of the first two books, A Burning Sea still has everything I love about this series: richly imagined settings, morally complex characters, and a story that blends history and legend in just the right proportions.
I'm honestly surprised this series doesn't get more attention. If you’re a fan of Bernard Cornwell or Giles Kristian, or if you enjoy your historical fiction with a touch of myth and mysticism, you should absolutely give The Wanderer Chronicles a shot.
Excited to dive into book four and see where Erlan’s journey takes him next.
September 25, 2022
I’m very surprised by all of the positive reviews for this book and this series. I often wonder if the Authors on this site just like to slap each other on the backs rather than submitting realistic reviews based on quality.
I did read all of the books, mainly because I bought the series rather than individual books at the start, unfortunately.
This series reminded me a little of a straight to tv movie, in that it could be entertaining, and wasn’t completely horrible but for the most part, it certainly wasn’t good.
The Author also can’t seem to decide if writing a grim adults book or a book aimed at children or young adults. It seems to regularly skip from childish and cheesy to grim, violent and graphic and back again.
The characters are fairly similar and wooden, the storyline cheesy and predictably, the dialog for the most part was childishly written.
The reader is also regularly bombarded with pages long ramblings about the all of character’s emotional inner turmoil, making for skim worthy and eye rolling reading.
Overall, although the author shows some promise,
I was disappointed by the whole series.
I wanted to love it but unfortunately, it just wasn’t very good.
I did read all of the books, mainly because I bought the series rather than individual books at the start, unfortunately.
This series reminded me a little of a straight to tv movie, in that it could be entertaining, and wasn’t completely horrible but for the most part, it certainly wasn’t good.
The Author also can’t seem to decide if writing a grim adults book or a book aimed at children or young adults. It seems to regularly skip from childish and cheesy to grim, violent and graphic and back again.
The characters are fairly similar and wooden, the storyline cheesy and predictably, the dialog for the most part was childishly written.
The reader is also regularly bombarded with pages long ramblings about the all of character’s emotional inner turmoil, making for skim worthy and eye rolling reading.
Overall, although the author shows some promise,
I was disappointed by the whole series.
I wanted to love it but unfortunately, it just wasn’t very good.
March 6, 2021
My review will make me sound like an old curmudgeon but I did not like this book half as much as its two predecessors. The story line is interesting and illuminating about a period in history of which I was ignorant. The river voyage from the Baltic to the Black Sea I was already aware of from other sources and it really was often just as hazardous in those times.
My complaint is that the actions of the principals, Erlan and Lilla are often illogical and ill-motivated to the point of absurdity. We know that general education and worldly sophistication were minimal and that might was right but nevertheless peoples basic motivations were pretty much the same as they are today although the overall earlier mortality meant that life was very much lived for the moment. that would argue for a large degree of selfishness in thought and action as well as developed senses of self-preservation. I didn't see those reflected here.
The Baddy Chancellor was just too typical and too obvious to have been given such license.
Sorry Mr Brun - not as good as the earlier novels.
My complaint is that the actions of the principals, Erlan and Lilla are often illogical and ill-motivated to the point of absurdity. We know that general education and worldly sophistication were minimal and that might was right but nevertheless peoples basic motivations were pretty much the same as they are today although the overall earlier mortality meant that life was very much lived for the moment. that would argue for a large degree of selfishness in thought and action as well as developed senses of self-preservation. I didn't see those reflected here.
The Baddy Chancellor was just too typical and too obvious to have been given such license.
Sorry Mr Brun - not as good as the earlier novels.
August 30, 2023
I am just amazed with this entire series so far and can't wait for the next, hopefully not last, part.
After reading "The Children of Ash and Elm" from Neil Price it was just a natural reaction to look for some good series about vikings and - oh, boy I definetely hit the jackpot!
The way Theodore put in his book all those things about viking's rites, traditions, the way of life, myths and legends, that I've previously read in work of Neil Price, was and is amazing. They were described in such a good and vivid details that it made me feel like I was standing there witnessing them myself - my modest opinion is that these books contain some of the best battle scenes that I have ever read... I will of course not go into details - such a great work like this deserves no spoilers.
Story itself, so far, widely covers everything what we know about vikings - not only eager to plunder but as well to discover and learn. And meet other cultures and religions on the way...
Just to conclude - if you are eager to read a good viking story you simply can't miss this peace of art.
After reading "The Children of Ash and Elm" from Neil Price it was just a natural reaction to look for some good series about vikings and - oh, boy I definetely hit the jackpot!
The way Theodore put in his book all those things about viking's rites, traditions, the way of life, myths and legends, that I've previously read in work of Neil Price, was and is amazing. They were described in such a good and vivid details that it made me feel like I was standing there witnessing them myself - my modest opinion is that these books contain some of the best battle scenes that I have ever read... I will of course not go into details - such a great work like this deserves no spoilers.
Story itself, so far, widely covers everything what we know about vikings - not only eager to plunder but as well to discover and learn. And meet other cultures and religions on the way...
Just to conclude - if you are eager to read a good viking story you simply can't miss this peace of art.
December 16, 2020
I read the first two books of the Wanderer Chronicles after seeing a recommendation from another author (Giles Kristian) on Twitter. Following the journey of Erlan Auvandil from his native Jutland where he was escaping a tragedy and a soured relationship with his father to Sweden where he becomes a trusted warrior of the Swedish King. The only constant in those times was the daily savagery and relentless ambition of Kings and Warlords to conquer and subjugate their neighbours. In “A Burning Sea” Erlan’s travels continue to the city of many names, Byzantium, Constantinople and Miklagard. Erlan becomes a bodyguard to the Byzantine Emperor whist an invading force is at it’s borders.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read and a worthy follow on to the previous two novels. Originally thought to be a trilogy I now have it on good authority Erlan’s adventures will continue on in book 4. I for one await with eager anticipation.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read and a worthy follow on to the previous two novels. Originally thought to be a trilogy I now have it on good authority Erlan’s adventures will continue on in book 4. I for one await with eager anticipation.
December 6, 2020
Return of hakon
This is the 3rd book of the wanderer and I have enjoyed reading it very much,I do have to say I don't think it is as good as 1 and 2 but still very good would love to read a follow up please keep up the good work mr. Brun
This is the 3rd book of the wanderer and I have enjoyed reading it very much,I do have to say I don't think it is as good as 1 and 2 but still very good would love to read a follow up please keep up the good work mr. Brun
October 21, 2023
Book 3.
Another cracking read from Theodore Brun. So much action in just one book. Erlan and Lilla find themselves in the city of Byzantium. Betrayal and war follow them closely. What a ride. Superb.
Another cracking read from Theodore Brun. So much action in just one book. Erlan and Lilla find themselves in the city of Byzantium. Betrayal and war follow them closely. What a ride. Superb.
November 11, 2020
Another excellent installment in this great series. I loved it!
January 10, 2024
An exciting new book in the series that stays fresh with each new novel. This series brings something different each time.
April 15, 2024
Good reading, good story
December 29, 2024
Continue loving this series! 4.5 🌟 ⭐️ 🌟 ⭐️
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