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The Saga of Hasting the Avenger #1
The Lords of the Wind
"For indeed the Frankish nation, which was crushed by the avenger Hasting, was full of filthy uncleanness. Treasonous and oath-breaking, they were deservedly condemned; unbelievers and faithless, they were justly punished."Orphaned as a child by a blood-feud, and sold as a slave to an exiled chieftain in Ireland, the boy Hasting had little hope of surviving to adulthood. The gods had other plans. A ship arrived at his master's longphort carrying a man who would alter the course of his destiny, and take him under his wing to teach him the ways of the Vikings. His is a story of a boy who was a slave, who became a warlord, and who helped topple an empire.A supposed son of Ragnar Lodbrok, and referred to in the Gesta Normanorum as the Scourge of the Somme and Loire, his life exemplified the qualities of the ideal Viking. Join author and historian C.J. Adrien on an adventure that explores the coming of age of the Viking Hasting, his first love, his first great trials, and his first betrayal.
338 pages, Paperback
First published December 17, 2014
1254 people are currently reading
917 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Adrien
22 books115 followersC.J. Adrien is a history teacher and a bestselling, award-winning author of historical fiction novels. Drawing on years of research into early medieval Europe and a lifelong study of myth, Jungian psychology, and the Hero’s Journey, Adrien’s Saga of Hasting the Avenger series blends historical realism with spiritual depth to explore the eternal battle between man and his shadow—a mythic reflection of his own journey toward wholeness and redemption.
Through his writing, Adrien invites readers to see the Viking world not merely as a distant past but as a mirror for our modern struggles with ambition, faith, and forgiveness. In addition to his novels, he teaches online courses for Medievalists.net and delivers guest lectures worldwide. He currently resides in France with his wife, sons, and pug, Captain Jean-Luc Pugcard.
Through his writing, Adrien invites readers to see the Viking world not merely as a distant past but as a mirror for our modern struggles with ambition, faith, and forgiveness. In addition to his novels, he teaches online courses for Medievalists.net and delivers guest lectures worldwide. He currently resides in France with his wife, sons, and pug, Captain Jean-Luc Pugcard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
September 13, 2019
MY name is Thorn Boarhardsson and back when I belonged to a guild of Viking reenactors out of Stockton, CA know as the "Dark Boars" I met C.J. Adrien au-thor of "The Line Of His People" online and we struck up a friendship. I very much enjoyed reading his first book, but now his second sojourn into Viking historical fiction titled "The Lords Of The Wind" filled my sail with a Viking's machismo and a lust for adventure into the unknown rowing around the rivers bend not knowing what awaits "Hasting" and his crew but knowing whatever or whoever they may encounter will find out way too late that they should have ran for their lives! Hastings meets Bjorn Ironsides in this wonderful adventure and by the books end one is left with a salivating desire to tear into C.J. Adrien’s next book as Hasting and Bjorn set off and sail together into the next exciting spine tingling adventure! By the GODS this book is right up there shoulder to should in the shield wall of ALL the great au-thors of Viking historical fiction ever writen over the past decade and beyond. C.J. Adrien takes you places other writers have not yet gone. One day French TV will discover his novels and make a series out of them and I shall brag I knew C.J. before he was famous! "The Lords Of The Wind" is for the loyal historical fiction Viking fan!! NO OATH BREAKERS!!!
-Thorn
December 12, 2019
The story told in C,J. Adrien's Lords Of The Wind. Is one that is filled with war, politics, maturation, and love. As seen through experiences of one Hastings. Slave turned warlord.
C.J. Adrien's ability to seamlessly transition readers through day to day minutia to important battles and other life occurrences in the life of his story's main character. Allows readers a full and detailed picture of Hasting's life as a whole. And better allows one to understand the elements which go into building the man that he is becoming.
A fact which goes a long way in helping the reader to maintain focus on Hastings when the fighting and politicing aspects of the plot seem to want to swallow all else later in the read.
That being said. The battle scenes are an exquisitely rendered part of this read. Brimming with loss, pain, triumph, and heart.
All of the things that make Viking battles the gloriously brutal affairs that they are. And all of the things that help to mold our book's hero into the legendary hero that he is to become.
Lords Of The Wind offers readers that perfect balance between history, lore, and creative licence. Which serves to create a world that one can both believe and get lost in. With every turn of the page.
C.J. Adrien's ability to seamlessly transition readers through day to day minutia to important battles and other life occurrences in the life of his story's main character. Allows readers a full and detailed picture of Hasting's life as a whole. And better allows one to understand the elements which go into building the man that he is becoming.
A fact which goes a long way in helping the reader to maintain focus on Hastings when the fighting and politicing aspects of the plot seem to want to swallow all else later in the read.
That being said. The battle scenes are an exquisitely rendered part of this read. Brimming with loss, pain, triumph, and heart.
All of the things that make Viking battles the gloriously brutal affairs that they are. And all of the things that help to mold our book's hero into the legendary hero that he is to become.
Lords Of The Wind offers readers that perfect balance between history, lore, and creative licence. Which serves to create a world that one can both believe and get lost in. With every turn of the page.
July 5, 2019
C.J. Adrien is a Viking historian, and his expertise is on display with this novel. Not only is the setting well wrought, the protagonist is highly likable, the action is non-stop, and there is a dynamic cast of characters. I'm definitely looking forward to the sequel.
February 23, 2021
A very compelling and action paket story with an interesting storyline. Going in I thought it sounded a bit too similar to another book, but reading it The Lords of the wind is it's own story and I quite enjoyed it.
July 13, 2019
Other reviews will go on about the storyline to be read in The Lords of the Wind, that it serves no purpose for me to echo them in that fashion. There is so much to learn from reading this novel steeped in the history of those known as Vikings. Life was hard and it can be felt with this story more than most written of times like this. The struggle for food, water, the battle against dirt and illness. All of this just jumps out as you read of it. This incredible skill of the writer to bring things to life is a rare and special talent. I am awestruck by how immersed I felt while reading this story; and a tale laced with vivid impressions of the perils that await the characters at every turn of the page.
Then, there is the character creation that introduces the players in this story and generates strong feelings toward their lives and the wonder at how they could even survive the challenges the writer placed in their path. When he was simply revealing how it all could have truly happened with intensive research that was brought to the task. I applaud the way in which it was all woven together, knowing full well just how much is required to tell a story such as this. There is so much of it that reflects the reality of what actually happened I could not help but have an opinion that rated five stars. I wished there were more available as I would have gladly given all I had to praise this novel.
I highly recommend you read it for yourself. I am confident you will enjoy it for many reasons.
Then, there is the character creation that introduces the players in this story and generates strong feelings toward their lives and the wonder at how they could even survive the challenges the writer placed in their path. When he was simply revealing how it all could have truly happened with intensive research that was brought to the task. I applaud the way in which it was all woven together, knowing full well just how much is required to tell a story such as this. There is so much of it that reflects the reality of what actually happened I could not help but have an opinion that rated five stars. I wished there were more available as I would have gladly given all I had to praise this novel.
I highly recommend you read it for yourself. I am confident you will enjoy it for many reasons.
December 13, 2019
My new motto for 2020 is...more Vikings!
Author C.J. Adrien will take you on an epic adventure with his new historical, The Lords of the Wind. It's the first book in a planned series featuring the Viking, Hasting, known as the Scourge of the Somme and Loire.
When we first meet Hasting he is very young and after his Chieftain father is slain and his mother and siblings sold into slavery his life is forever changed. We then follow him from his early years in Ireland with Hagar, to his time as a ship's boy with Eilif on the sea, then as a political hostage to a Celtic King, and finally as he sets out to find his first love that was kidnapped by Northmen during a raid. It was fascinating to watch Hasting's growth as a man and Viking, learning from each captor or leader along the way.
The battle scenes and the scenes on the sea were my favorites! I can totally see it playing out on a big screen! It was really cool to read about how the Vikings fought and defended themselves.
One thing that was really to cool to see is when Hakon showed up in the book. He features in Author Eric Schumacher's series so I will be picking that up too! I would also love to see two of the characters feature in their own book -- Arnulf and Bertrand, the beekeeper detectives, were awesome!
C.J. Adrien's knowledge and passion shine through in The Lords of the Wind. Little is know about Hasting's life but C.J. filled in the gaps to create a fascinating insight into Hasting. As the book ended he is heading out on the open sea to exact revenge, so I absolutely cannot wait for that!
Author C.J. Adrien will take you on an epic adventure with his new historical, The Lords of the Wind. It's the first book in a planned series featuring the Viking, Hasting, known as the Scourge of the Somme and Loire.
When we first meet Hasting he is very young and after his Chieftain father is slain and his mother and siblings sold into slavery his life is forever changed. We then follow him from his early years in Ireland with Hagar, to his time as a ship's boy with Eilif on the sea, then as a political hostage to a Celtic King, and finally as he sets out to find his first love that was kidnapped by Northmen during a raid. It was fascinating to watch Hasting's growth as a man and Viking, learning from each captor or leader along the way.
The battle scenes and the scenes on the sea were my favorites! I can totally see it playing out on a big screen! It was really cool to read about how the Vikings fought and defended themselves.
One thing that was really to cool to see is when Hakon showed up in the book. He features in Author Eric Schumacher's series so I will be picking that up too! I would also love to see two of the characters feature in their own book -- Arnulf and Bertrand, the beekeeper detectives, were awesome!
C.J. Adrien's knowledge and passion shine through in The Lords of the Wind. Little is know about Hasting's life but C.J. filled in the gaps to create a fascinating insight into Hasting. As the book ended he is heading out on the open sea to exact revenge, so I absolutely cannot wait for that!
December 9, 2019
Thank you HFVBT and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
The Lords Of The Wind
By: C.J. Adrien
*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Admittedly, my knowledge of Viking history is extremely limited and lacking, so the idea of reading The Lords Of The Wind was initially intimidating. After reading the first thirty pages or so, I had to know more about Hasting and his journey. Viking life was difficult and harrowing. Not only surviving but, thriving, in this hardscrabble unforgiving landscape seems nothing short of miraculous. I was most intrigued by the details of daily life and the politics of the day. I have never been much for battle scenes. Hasting was heroic, adventurous, intelligent and compelling. I am interested to see where he goes next through the words of C.J. Adrien. The authors expertise of Viking history is obvious,and the story is meticulously crafted and informative. If, like me, you know basically nothing about the Vikings, this book is a great place to start.
The Lords Of The Wind
By: C.J. Adrien
*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Admittedly, my knowledge of Viking history is extremely limited and lacking, so the idea of reading The Lords Of The Wind was initially intimidating. After reading the first thirty pages or so, I had to know more about Hasting and his journey. Viking life was difficult and harrowing. Not only surviving but, thriving, in this hardscrabble unforgiving landscape seems nothing short of miraculous. I was most intrigued by the details of daily life and the politics of the day. I have never been much for battle scenes. Hasting was heroic, adventurous, intelligent and compelling. I am interested to see where he goes next through the words of C.J. Adrien. The authors expertise of Viking history is obvious,and the story is meticulously crafted and informative. If, like me, you know basically nothing about the Vikings, this book is a great place to start.
July 14, 2020
I was recommended to this book by a fellow Goodreads reviewer.
It is well written and, from my own research, very accurate, with the history and the ethos of the period.
Other will tell of the plot and how Hastings rises from abused slave to respected jarl with his own island, warship and crew.
The author says he admires Bernard Cormwell, but this book is far more nuanced than Cornwell's books on Arthur and Aelfred: in style and believably it is more on the lines of Frans Bengtsson's classic Viking tale "The Long Ships".
The tale will appeal to more than just those interested in Viking books as there is good characterisation and you get alongside Hastings, who tells the tale in the first person. I highly recommend it.
However, I found some wording clunking in my mind (yes, I know, it is an American published book and they can't spell English words correctly, but it wasn't that - although I find it like fingernails down a blackboard). It was this sort of thing:
Sint - when he means splint
Steering paddle - when he means steerboard
Wicket - when he means both wattle (as in wattle and daub) and wicker hurdle
Pikes - when he means stakes
Lance - when he means spear (though when talking of the Vikings he does use spear)
I wonder if he wrote the text in his native French and then used a translation programme to convert it?
It is well written and, from my own research, very accurate, with the history and the ethos of the period.
Other will tell of the plot and how Hastings rises from abused slave to respected jarl with his own island, warship and crew.
The author says he admires Bernard Cormwell, but this book is far more nuanced than Cornwell's books on Arthur and Aelfred: in style and believably it is more on the lines of Frans Bengtsson's classic Viking tale "The Long Ships".
The tale will appeal to more than just those interested in Viking books as there is good characterisation and you get alongside Hastings, who tells the tale in the first person. I highly recommend it.
However, I found some wording clunking in my mind (yes, I know, it is an American published book and they can't spell English words correctly, but it wasn't that - although I find it like fingernails down a blackboard). It was this sort of thing:
Sint - when he means splint
Steering paddle - when he means steerboard
Wicket - when he means both wattle (as in wattle and daub) and wicker hurdle
Pikes - when he means stakes
Lance - when he means spear (though when talking of the Vikings he does use spear)
I wonder if he wrote the text in his native French and then used a translation programme to convert it?
December 1, 2019
Lord of the Wind is a well written, well crafted, and well done novel.
I have seen the rise of Hasting from a humble save to a mighty warrior experiencing love and loss. Though I felt his chemistry with Asa was brief, and therefore she was not the right choice, because it was to do with politics more than anything else. At some times, I felt Hasting needed a more difficult path because as he learned the arts and culture of the Celts and the Franks; it was easy for him. I needed more obstacles, more difficulties, such as the Franks and the Celts sometimes working side by side to thwart the ambitions of the Norsemen. I would have liked to have seen more Frankish viewpoints, and to see if there were any surviving Pagan practices left.
At some points, I was confused why everyone at first enquired about his father, and when Hasting replied, Ragnar, they didn’t care. I think if I had been Hasting, I would have cemented my legacy but that was me as an individual reader.
The action sequences were well built, with boat combat, battles, sword fights, and a very good representation of how Vikings operated as a people. They were more or less after wealth, but they were like pirates and bandits. I applaud the author’s efforts in finally going elsewhere and showing the breadth length of the Viking World. They were everywhere, in France, in the Byzantine Empire, in Spain, against the Rus. I would love to a series focusing more on them. But thank you CJ for this.
I felt love, loss and I want Hasting to reclaim his Irish home, and take Gyda away. He will be an explorer and an adventurer. Maybe he’ll go on the Silk Road? India? Where will he go? Well written, great, and I cannot wait to see where these series go. Something tells me this is of Bernard Cornwell’s quality. My rating is 5/5.
I have seen the rise of Hasting from a humble save to a mighty warrior experiencing love and loss. Though I felt his chemistry with Asa was brief, and therefore she was not the right choice, because it was to do with politics more than anything else. At some times, I felt Hasting needed a more difficult path because as he learned the arts and culture of the Celts and the Franks; it was easy for him. I needed more obstacles, more difficulties, such as the Franks and the Celts sometimes working side by side to thwart the ambitions of the Norsemen. I would have liked to have seen more Frankish viewpoints, and to see if there were any surviving Pagan practices left.
At some points, I was confused why everyone at first enquired about his father, and when Hasting replied, Ragnar, they didn’t care. I think if I had been Hasting, I would have cemented my legacy but that was me as an individual reader.
The action sequences were well built, with boat combat, battles, sword fights, and a very good representation of how Vikings operated as a people. They were more or less after wealth, but they were like pirates and bandits. I applaud the author’s efforts in finally going elsewhere and showing the breadth length of the Viking World. They were everywhere, in France, in the Byzantine Empire, in Spain, against the Rus. I would love to a series focusing more on them. But thank you CJ for this.
I felt love, loss and I want Hasting to reclaim his Irish home, and take Gyda away. He will be an explorer and an adventurer. Maybe he’ll go on the Silk Road? India? Where will he go? Well written, great, and I cannot wait to see where these series go. Something tells me this is of Bernard Cornwell’s quality. My rating is 5/5.
December 6, 2019
“…I recalled my father’s words. I remembered that he had said a man’s reputation survives him beyond his death if he lives his life well. I recalled how I had felt when the skald sang his songs about me to the admiration of the townspeople. It was uplifting .
“I want to be remembered”, I answered.
Horic ran his hand through his hair and smiled.”Remembered?” he mused. He chuckled and looked at Bjorn. “That,” he declared,”is the answer of a true warrior.”
This is a recounting of the early life of a Viking know as Hasting the Wolf. The historical figure known as a son of Ragnar Lodbrok and called by others as “the Scourge of the Somme and Loire”. This book, the first of a series, gives us a fictional backstory that takes Hasting captive to Ireland as a slave; follows him into young adulthood as one who could read and understand the languages and traditions of many; stands with him as loyal, and not so loyal fighters and lovers come and go; and, prepares us for whatever future he chooses.
C J Adrien, a known Viking historian, has written a great book. He takes a long time getting to where he begins to launch our hero into a life of adventure, mystery and a growing understanding that he will do great things. However, the book starts very slowly. I almost gave up a few times but I am glad I continued and thank Amy Bruno and her Virtual Historical Fiction Book Tour for the opportunity to read and voluntarily review this book. 4/5
“I want to be remembered”, I answered.
Horic ran his hand through his hair and smiled.”Remembered?” he mused. He chuckled and looked at Bjorn. “That,” he declared,”is the answer of a true warrior.”
This is a recounting of the early life of a Viking know as Hasting the Wolf. The historical figure known as a son of Ragnar Lodbrok and called by others as “the Scourge of the Somme and Loire”. This book, the first of a series, gives us a fictional backstory that takes Hasting captive to Ireland as a slave; follows him into young adulthood as one who could read and understand the languages and traditions of many; stands with him as loyal, and not so loyal fighters and lovers come and go; and, prepares us for whatever future he chooses.
C J Adrien, a known Viking historian, has written a great book. He takes a long time getting to where he begins to launch our hero into a life of adventure, mystery and a growing understanding that he will do great things. However, the book starts very slowly. I almost gave up a few times but I am glad I continued and thank Amy Bruno and her Virtual Historical Fiction Book Tour for the opportunity to read and voluntarily review this book. 4/5
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November 20, 2019I think my favorite part of this book is that I can tell it was written with accuracy. C,J. Adrien is a historian and it showed in this story. His ability to seamlessly weave in the hardships, strife, and daily life of the time. Now don’t get me wrong, this story is filled with all the battles and bloodshed that you would expect of a viking tale. However, for me the shining moments were the moments that typically go by without a backwards glance. The day to day details that the author effortlessly picked up on and captured in the pages.
Full review (and giveaway) on my blog: https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/20...
Full review (and giveaway) on my blog: https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/20...
October 30, 2019
Excellent book
This will sound silly: I was initially attracted to this author because his name is similar to my first+middle. Regardless, I’m glad I found the book because it’s fantastic. The storyline is engrossing; the action is well-paced and the editing is pretty solid for an ebook.
This will sound silly: I was initially attracted to this author because his name is similar to my first+middle. Regardless, I’m glad I found the book because it’s fantastic. The storyline is engrossing; the action is well-paced and the editing is pretty solid for an ebook.
November 19, 2019
Hard to put down
I gave this book a 5 star rating because I stayed up late in the evening,lying in my bed reading .I could not sleep until I knew what would happen next. I would wake early on the morn and start reading the story again . My only disappointment is that part one this story ended so soon.A great saga and I can't wait until I read part two.
I gave this book a 5 star rating because I stayed up late in the evening,lying in my bed reading .I could not sleep until I knew what would happen next. I would wake early on the morn and start reading the story again . My only disappointment is that part one this story ended so soon.A great saga and I can't wait until I read part two.
September 20, 2019
Excellent
Much more about the politics and relationships that powered the era. It isn't blow by blow and party by parry that so many of the tales of the Vikings are, but realistically based on history.
Much more about the politics and relationships that powered the era. It isn't blow by blow and party by parry that so many of the tales of the Vikings are, but realistically based on history.
September 26, 2019
Great book
If you like history you will like this book. The story comes alive and you can't wait for the next book
If you like history you will like this book. The story comes alive and you can't wait for the next book
May 27, 2024
Good history
Book well researched and written. I found it very enjoyable and interesting. I look forward to reading more of them. A nice break from mystery novels.
Book well researched and written. I found it very enjoyable and interesting. I look forward to reading more of them. A nice break from mystery novels.
December 15, 2021
The Lords of the Wind by C. J. Adrien is an action-packed, high sea adventure and a coming-of-age Nordic saga about the early life of Hasting considered one of the most notorious Vikings in the Dark Ages. The story is told through the perspective of Hasting, who describes himself as the Scourge of the Somme and Loire; Christian priests believe he is the Devil sent to punish them for their sins.
As a child, Hasting is enslaved during a blood feud and must endure unspeakable brutality in Ireland until a captain of a warship recruits him to "go a-Viking." His legend grows after he nearly drowns during a storm but is saved by the mythic, monstrous wolf Eilif. Abandoned by the ship's crew during a raid in the Britanny region of France, Hasting spends his formative years learning the culture of the Celts and becomes embroiled in their politics. When he discovers that a young woman he loves may have been captured and enslaved by Vikings during a raid, he sets off to rescue her and seek revenge. On his quest to find her, he travels as far north as Norway and transforms into a cunning captain of his own warship.
Author C J Adrien captures the essence of various cultures in the Dark Ages, including the Viking pagans and Celtic and Frankish Christians. The Nordic saga explores the themes of love, betrayal, and political intrigue. The story is most engaging when we learn more about how diverse cultures impact Hasting. He uses broad knowledge from his training, education, and experiences to communicate and negotiate effectively with various factions. Also of interest is the importance of trade during this time, particularly the slave and salt markets.
Mythology seamlessly weaves into the story and captures the beliefs and superstitions of the pagans and Christians. The vivid narrative detailing the landscape, sailing a ship, or processing salt is evidence of the author's meticulous research. Tragic love and political intrigue drive Hasting's decisions in the epic adventure on the high seas. However, the last half of the novel felt more rushed with some inconsistencies in the plot and characters which resulted in an unsatisfying ending for me.
I highly recommended The Lords of the Wind to readers who embrace action-packed, epic Viking adventure with a splash of romance and political intrigue on the high seas.
As a child, Hasting is enslaved during a blood feud and must endure unspeakable brutality in Ireland until a captain of a warship recruits him to "go a-Viking." His legend grows after he nearly drowns during a storm but is saved by the mythic, monstrous wolf Eilif. Abandoned by the ship's crew during a raid in the Britanny region of France, Hasting spends his formative years learning the culture of the Celts and becomes embroiled in their politics. When he discovers that a young woman he loves may have been captured and enslaved by Vikings during a raid, he sets off to rescue her and seek revenge. On his quest to find her, he travels as far north as Norway and transforms into a cunning captain of his own warship.
Author C J Adrien captures the essence of various cultures in the Dark Ages, including the Viking pagans and Celtic and Frankish Christians. The Nordic saga explores the themes of love, betrayal, and political intrigue. The story is most engaging when we learn more about how diverse cultures impact Hasting. He uses broad knowledge from his training, education, and experiences to communicate and negotiate effectively with various factions. Also of interest is the importance of trade during this time, particularly the slave and salt markets.
Mythology seamlessly weaves into the story and captures the beliefs and superstitions of the pagans and Christians. The vivid narrative detailing the landscape, sailing a ship, or processing salt is evidence of the author's meticulous research. Tragic love and political intrigue drive Hasting's decisions in the epic adventure on the high seas. However, the last half of the novel felt more rushed with some inconsistencies in the plot and characters which resulted in an unsatisfying ending for me.
I highly recommended The Lords of the Wind to readers who embrace action-packed, epic Viking adventure with a splash of romance and political intrigue on the high seas.
November 8, 2020
The story was compelling (might almost say "rollicking"), the storytelling workmanlike. (Adrien is a young author, and may grow into an ability to write a time and language with more verisimilitude. See C.J.Samson for a master class in this art. The vocabulary and syntax here is 21st Century America, not remotely that of a contemporary skald.) The author's familiarity with the time, at a satisfyingly granular level, otherwise roars through. Our hero Hasting is one of God's Fortunates -- I have known one or two -- who almost always come out lucky and alive no matter how dire their challenge. We love their stories ...and nobody else lives long enough to write a story. I felt a little deceleration at the end, when (I'm guessing) the first-time author realized his characters had legs to carry them beyond a single book into a series. I regret that, but it does not dissuade me from adding this series to my list of "read in order" books.
June 15, 2024
Haven't read much about Vikings and really liked this story about Hastings. Looking forward to the next book.
May 13, 2020
Adrian's Hasting.
My first reading of C J Adrien convinced me that I had discovered a story teller of enormous talent. His development of characters and the unwinding of the story is unparralleled among modern writers. The release of the second book of the Hasting story is eagerly awaited.
My first reading of C J Adrien convinced me that I had discovered a story teller of enormous talent. His development of characters and the unwinding of the story is unparralleled among modern writers. The release of the second book of the Hasting story is eagerly awaited.
December 19, 2014
This book has a little bit of everything! Action, adventure, love, mystery and an amazing message to boot. Neil is a fantastic, well rounded character. Kudos to Rob London for writing something that advocates positive change in such a meaningful way. Without a doubt, this was the best read I have had in a LONG time!
November 13, 2021
Outstanding read, plenty of action,a thrill a minute. Leaves you wanting more.
November 22, 2019
Loved
This is a great story of Hastings. I love how it is written, like a journal. He tells the story of his life and feelings. Engaging!
This is a great story of Hastings. I love how it is written, like a journal. He tells the story of his life and feelings. Engaging!
December 2, 2019
I recommend this book of you like history and vikings.
Can't wait for the next episode.
Can't wait for the next episode.
January 22, 2022
I've recently discovered historical fiction of the early Middle Ages, into which falls what we call the Viking era. A time of great turmoil – and boundless opportunities. A time to make a mark.
Hasting is such a man who made a mark. In The Lords of the Wind, we meet him first as a young boy, orphaned when his father is slain, and taken as a slave to Ireland. His early years are difficult. He is mistreated and beaten, but he remains aware of what happened to his father.
A few years later, an almost deadly error sees him lifted from his time in the north, and taking care of all the duties on a Viking ship, he finds a friendly, supportive mentor in Eilif. Under his guidance, he learns about the Viking ways. A trader, Eilif deals with the various peoples that populate what is now north-western France: Normandy and Brittany. Back then, there were still tribal disputes for overlordship, and soon Hasting finds himself in the midst of it.
He also discovers what it means to fall in love. But when his beloved is taken, he sets out to find her, and to seek revenge. This takes him to new places – and continuing challenges.
The Lords of the Wind is a novel in true storytelling tradition. We grow with Hasting as he discovers life, loss, love, death, a breach of trust, and abandonment. And as he discovers the world around him. We feel his pain and his fears.
Hasting is an interesting historical character, and the author breathed an exciting new life into him. Through Hasting's eyes, first as a child, then as he grows up, we see a world of warfare and hardship, but also one of loyalty and friendship. But there is always a sense of danger, and this novel brings it out really well.
The challenges from the expanding Franks are realistic, as are the tough way of life the author shows us as part of the story.
However, I found the language at times too modern, which threatens to halt the reading flow. But the plot is really gripping, and you just have to keep reading on.
The Lords of the Wind is a riveting historical adventure set in an era and area I know well (from the Frankish side). I will definitely look for the other titles in the series.
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
October 10, 2020
I enjoy historical fiction, but I want the historical and cultural context to be accurate enough to make me feel like I am there and learning about the time and place even while I am being entertained. I want a good historian who is also a gifted novelist. I am pleased to say we have that here.
This is a coming of age story, first in a series. Hasting, a Dane by birth, is taken as a Viking slave to Ireland as a youth. We follow his struggles and adventures as he moves around and takes opportunities at his disposal -- in some ways like the old Horatio Alger hero, when it comes to character and integrity, though he is more a warrior, given his Viking sensibility and talents. He is a quick study, and he grows into a man as he moves around and advances in life, in part based on his own skills, in part because others see something special in him and he seems to be, at times, chosen by the Gods for great things. In this first novel he moves beyond the Viking culture of Dublin to Celt culture in Brittany, encounters with the Franks as a sidekick to a prince, and even back up into the upper reaches of Scandinavia. It is exciting, and we also learn about war, commercial trade, interactions between social classes and ethnic groups, and different religious views and practices at this time. There is also a love interest for the hero, an intriguing character in her own right.
I will come back to this series. Good author!!
This is a coming of age story, first in a series. Hasting, a Dane by birth, is taken as a Viking slave to Ireland as a youth. We follow his struggles and adventures as he moves around and takes opportunities at his disposal -- in some ways like the old Horatio Alger hero, when it comes to character and integrity, though he is more a warrior, given his Viking sensibility and talents. He is a quick study, and he grows into a man as he moves around and advances in life, in part based on his own skills, in part because others see something special in him and he seems to be, at times, chosen by the Gods for great things. In this first novel he moves beyond the Viking culture of Dublin to Celt culture in Brittany, encounters with the Franks as a sidekick to a prince, and even back up into the upper reaches of Scandinavia. It is exciting, and we also learn about war, commercial trade, interactions between social classes and ethnic groups, and different religious views and practices at this time. There is also a love interest for the hero, an intriguing character in her own right.
I will come back to this series. Good author!!
December 8, 2021
This is a story about a slave who became a great warrior. Born a Dane, Hasting suffers years of abuse. How he survived his childhood was a miracle in itself, but survive he did. But it isn't until he is almost killed by his master, Hagar, that Hasting's life really begins, and it is from that moment that he remembers the wise words of his father:
“What does not die is the reputation a man leaves behind at his death.”
Hasting was a character that made me feel all kinds of emotions - pity, fear, sadness, loss and love. There are moments when his calculated coldness left me with a shiver down my spine, but there were also incredibly touching and moving scenes, especially with regards to the scenes involving Gyda and Asa. Considering Hasting's dreadful beginnings it is surprising that he could function at all, but he grows into a confident warrior. During this novel Hasting learns who his friends are, he also learns that war is anything but predictable!
I had never heard the sagas of Hasting before, although there are plenty of names that die-hard fans of this era will recognise, such as Björn Ironside. Nothing much is knowing about the early years of Hasting's life, but I like the idea that the author had run with - a lost son of Ragnar!
If you love everything Viking, then this book should be on your to-read list. I enjoyed every minute of it.
*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
“What does not die is the reputation a man leaves behind at his death.”
Hasting was a character that made me feel all kinds of emotions - pity, fear, sadness, loss and love. There are moments when his calculated coldness left me with a shiver down my spine, but there were also incredibly touching and moving scenes, especially with regards to the scenes involving Gyda and Asa. Considering Hasting's dreadful beginnings it is surprising that he could function at all, but he grows into a confident warrior. During this novel Hasting learns who his friends are, he also learns that war is anything but predictable!
I had never heard the sagas of Hasting before, although there are plenty of names that die-hard fans of this era will recognise, such as Björn Ironside. Nothing much is knowing about the early years of Hasting's life, but I like the idea that the author had run with - a lost son of Ragnar!
If you love everything Viking, then this book should be on your to-read list. I enjoyed every minute of it.
*I received a copy of this novel from The Coffee Pot Book Club for review consideration.
September 14, 2020
History comes alive
Many wrongly presume that history is a dry, boring subject about peoples, their leaders, battles and conquest in the far distant past and in the comtemporary past. This author dug through chronicals filled with murky or fabricated information, details , biographies based on oral tales, actual published documents and historical retellings of events sometimes steeped in hyperbole, guesstimates that were based on documented outcomes described by authors at the time following the actual event. However, he used his literary license, imagination and gut instinct to produce an extremely powerful and compelling logical explanation, journey and life path of a man who might have been a Dane who, though honorable and flawed, rose from childhood slavery a victim of a blood feud which killed his father in front of his eyes and theft of his last parental gift, a family sword, by the opposing side's murderer to through hell and high water became the man contained within the pages of C.J. Adrien's novel.
Many wrongly presume that history is a dry, boring subject about peoples, their leaders, battles and conquest in the far distant past and in the comtemporary past. This author dug through chronicals filled with murky or fabricated information, details , biographies based on oral tales, actual published documents and historical retellings of events sometimes steeped in hyperbole, guesstimates that were based on documented outcomes described by authors at the time following the actual event. However, he used his literary license, imagination and gut instinct to produce an extremely powerful and compelling logical explanation, journey and life path of a man who might have been a Dane who, though honorable and flawed, rose from childhood slavery a victim of a blood feud which killed his father in front of his eyes and theft of his last parental gift, a family sword, by the opposing side's murderer to through hell and high water became the man contained within the pages of C.J. Adrien's novel.
August 17, 2020
Lords of the Winds bt C.J. Adrien
I raided this historical novel with four stars. The author was very good at mending books historical fact and what he knew that was factual history of the Viking era. The main character of the story, a man named Hastings is indeed himself a factual historical figure. But because the time that he lived the author had to pluck from his knowledge of life in that era to create a readable story for us. I really enjoyed reading books like this it gives a flavor of how it was to live in those days and yet gives us the view of hindsight so we can really understand in a way that you can't just like camping out overnight of how people had to live then.
I raided this historical novel with four stars. The author was very good at mending books historical fact and what he knew that was factual history of the Viking era. The main character of the story, a man named Hastings is indeed himself a factual historical figure. But because the time that he lived the author had to pluck from his knowledge of life in that era to create a readable story for us. I really enjoyed reading books like this it gives a flavor of how it was to live in those days and yet gives us the view of hindsight so we can really understand in a way that you can't just like camping out overnight of how people had to live then.
July 26, 2021
Very Impressive
An author who doesn’t relay on the modern usage and vocabulary of English in a 9th century period fiction novel. For this reason alone I award 5 stars.
As the first book in a long series it does very good character development and plot changes that are well within reality. His scholarly works provide him with knowledge of things militate, without having the book littered with later words more descriptive of the items or strategies. He’s confident he doesn’t need to show ungodly amounts of formal labels peppered throughout the novel, but can use a short phrase as a thinking person without the thing’s actual word.
I look forward to more Adrien books.
An author who doesn’t relay on the modern usage and vocabulary of English in a 9th century period fiction novel. For this reason alone I award 5 stars.
As the first book in a long series it does very good character development and plot changes that are well within reality. His scholarly works provide him with knowledge of things militate, without having the book littered with later words more descriptive of the items or strategies. He’s confident he doesn’t need to show ungodly amounts of formal labels peppered throughout the novel, but can use a short phrase as a thinking person without the thing’s actual word.
I look forward to more Adrien books.
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