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A Time for Swords
When the Vikings attack, a novice monk's life is changed forever in Matthew Harffy's new historical adventure. Lindisfarne, AD793. There had been portents – famine, whirlwinds, lightning from clear skies, serpents seen flying through the air. But when the raiders came, no one was prepared. They came from the North, their dragon-prowed longships gliding out of the dawn mist as they descended on the kingdom's most sacred site. It is 8th June AD793, and with the pillage of the monastery on Lindisfarne, the Viking Age has begun. While his fellow monks flee before the Norse onslaught, one young novice stands his ground. He has been taught to turn the other cheek, but faced with the slaughter of his brothers and the pagan desecration of his church, forgiveness is impossible. Hunlaf soon learns that there is a time for faith and prayer . . . and there is a time for swords.
496 pages, Paperback
First published December 10, 2020
545 people are currently reading
1352 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Harffy
35 books745 followersMatthew Harffy is the author of the action-packed series of historical novels, the Bernicia Chronicles.
Matthew’s 2020 novel, Wolf of Wessex, was his first departure from the seventh century. Taking place a couple of centuries later in the early years of the Viking Age, it tells the tale of ageing warrior, Dunston, as he tries to find a man’s vicious murderers, keep the victim’s orphaned daughter alive and uncover the dark secret that threatens to plunge the kingdom into war. The book was very well received, with The Times calling it “a treat of a book”.
His A Time for Swords series is set at the dawn of the Viking Age. It follows the adventures of monk-turned-warrior, Hunlaf, who witnesses the first attack on the monastery of Lindisfarne and feels compelled to pick up a blade and organise the defence against the Norse raiders.
Before becoming a full-time author, Matthew worked in the IT industry, where he spent most of his days writing and editing, just not the words that most interested him! Prior to that, he worked in Spain as an English teacher and translator.
Matthew lives in Wiltshire, England, with his wife and their two daughters.
Matthew’s 2020 novel, Wolf of Wessex, was his first departure from the seventh century. Taking place a couple of centuries later in the early years of the Viking Age, it tells the tale of ageing warrior, Dunston, as he tries to find a man’s vicious murderers, keep the victim’s orphaned daughter alive and uncover the dark secret that threatens to plunge the kingdom into war. The book was very well received, with The Times calling it “a treat of a book”.
His A Time for Swords series is set at the dawn of the Viking Age. It follows the adventures of monk-turned-warrior, Hunlaf, who witnesses the first attack on the monastery of Lindisfarne and feels compelled to pick up a blade and organise the defence against the Norse raiders.
Before becoming a full-time author, Matthew worked in the IT industry, where he spent most of his days writing and editing, just not the words that most interested him! Prior to that, he worked in Spain as an English teacher and translator.
Matthew lives in Wiltshire, England, with his wife and their two daughters.
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October 9, 2022Imagine Magnificent Seven, but with Vikings......
Having thoroughly enjoyed Wolf of Wessex and the first three instalments of The Bernicia Chronicles, I had no doubt that this would be an engaging read. I was not wrong. This explores the famous raid on Lindisfarne by the dreaded Norse, a landmark event that has gone down as the beginning of the terror of the Norse on the British (even though there was one raid that occurred before Lindisfarne).
In this Matthew Harffy does a fantastic job in immersing us in the gritty world of late 8th century England. He explores the conflict between religion and violence, the class difference and disparity of lifestyle between those who rule and those who have no option but to serve, and the utter desperation to survive.
Then, to make this even more interesting, Matthew Harffy throws in a Magnificent Seven styled plot line. We have a group who somehow come together work with a village to protect it from being raided by the Norse.
This is a really tense, well written work that has a dose of everything. Great characters, tick. Engaging plot, tick. Mysteries, tick. A vivd world, also tick. Matthew Harffy shows again that her truly is a highly skilled writer.
Full Review to Come
Looking forward to carrying on!
Having thoroughly enjoyed Wolf of Wessex and the first three instalments of The Bernicia Chronicles, I had no doubt that this would be an engaging read. I was not wrong. This explores the famous raid on Lindisfarne by the dreaded Norse, a landmark event that has gone down as the beginning of the terror of the Norse on the British (even though there was one raid that occurred before Lindisfarne).
In this Matthew Harffy does a fantastic job in immersing us in the gritty world of late 8th century England. He explores the conflict between religion and violence, the class difference and disparity of lifestyle between those who rule and those who have no option but to serve, and the utter desperation to survive.
Then, to make this even more interesting, Matthew Harffy throws in a Magnificent Seven styled plot line. We have a group who somehow come together work with a village to protect it from being raided by the Norse.
This is a really tense, well written work that has a dose of everything. Great characters, tick. Engaging plot, tick. Mysteries, tick. A vivd world, also tick. Matthew Harffy shows again that her truly is a highly skilled writer.
Full Review to Come
Looking forward to carrying on!
April 20, 2022
If you have read any Viking historical fiction, along the lines of Bernard Cornwell's The Last Kingdom or have watched the show Vikings, there will be nothing new for you here.
In addition to being unoriginal, the storyline was overly simplistic and surrounded by copious amounts of filler.
The first half was constantly reminding me of better scenes from shows or books I'd already read, and the second half, after threatening to pick up and get the blood flowing, ended up being so disappointing that I had to skim a lot of it.
I have other books of his on my to-be-read list. I hope they're better than this or off they go.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this advanced reader's copy. These opinions are all my own.
In addition to being unoriginal, the storyline was overly simplistic and surrounded by copious amounts of filler.
The first half was constantly reminding me of better scenes from shows or books I'd already read, and the second half, after threatening to pick up and get the blood flowing, ended up being so disappointing that I had to skim a lot of it.
I have other books of his on my to-be-read list. I hope they're better than this or off they go.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this advanced reader's copy. These opinions are all my own.
December 21, 2020
I really enjoy this author's writing and his delivery of historical accounts of battle action transports the reader to another time. This book starts within the peaceful setting of the monastery at Lindisfarne, the Holy Island. Our narrator is the scribe Hunlaf, whose life will take a dramatic turn when the island is invaded by Vikings, "the day the northern devils came" thought to be during 793.
The characters, their motivations, the training they undergo and their pursuit of defensive strategic planning are all masterfully written. One Viking character, Runolf, who joins the Christians, is a standout in this emotionally rich telling. This is a great read!
Kindle Unlimited
The characters, their motivations, the training they undergo and their pursuit of defensive strategic planning are all masterfully written. One Viking character, Runolf, who joins the Christians, is a standout in this emotionally rich telling. This is a great read!
Kindle Unlimited
December 29, 2021
This marvellous historical novel is the 1st volume of the "Time for Swords" series, featuring the monk of Hunlaf of Ubbanford, of Werceworthe (Warkworth).
Right inside the book you'll see a wonderful map of Northern Britain and Hunlaf's taken route of travel in the year AD 793.
Further at the beginning of the book you'll find a phrase from Ecclesiastes 3, verses1-8, and a list of Place Names, with places that will play an important part in this tale.
At the end of the book you'll notice a superbly documented Author's Note, where the historical details are wonderfully explained by the auhtor.
This book is told as a recollection of written down memories by the now old monk Hunlaf of Ubbanford at the monastery of Werceworthe, and it starts off in June in the year AD 793, with the young monk Hunlaf and his mentor the older monk Leofstan on their way to Lindisfarnae (Lindisfarne), to deliver supplies to the brethren on this Holy Island.
While being there at Lindisfarnae and doing the things that need to be done, Hunlaf will meet his childhood cousin, Aelfwyn, but not long after their renewed acquaintance, this Holy Island will get attacked by Vikings, and in the wake of this attack and destruction many of Hunlaf's friends are mutilated and killed, while also treasures are looted and many people are abducted, and one of them is Aelfwyn.
What is to follow is an astounding historical adventure, which is told in a very captivating manner by the author, and where the learning monk, Hunlaf, will turn into a warrior monk, and this transformation will often bring his faith in God in doubt, but in the end God will guide Hunlaf towards a path of justification in seeking revenge for the killing of his people by the Vikings, and after a bloody tour-de-force with the assistance from some real warriors and the people of Werceworthe, they will be able to repulse these Vikings and send them to the Otherworld.
Highly recommended, for this is an amazing start of a new series, and that's why I like to call this first episode: "A Magnificent Hunlaf Of Ubbanford Begin"!
Right inside the book you'll see a wonderful map of Northern Britain and Hunlaf's taken route of travel in the year AD 793.
Further at the beginning of the book you'll find a phrase from Ecclesiastes 3, verses1-8, and a list of Place Names, with places that will play an important part in this tale.
At the end of the book you'll notice a superbly documented Author's Note, where the historical details are wonderfully explained by the auhtor.
This book is told as a recollection of written down memories by the now old monk Hunlaf of Ubbanford at the monastery of Werceworthe, and it starts off in June in the year AD 793, with the young monk Hunlaf and his mentor the older monk Leofstan on their way to Lindisfarnae (Lindisfarne), to deliver supplies to the brethren on this Holy Island.
While being there at Lindisfarnae and doing the things that need to be done, Hunlaf will meet his childhood cousin, Aelfwyn, but not long after their renewed acquaintance, this Holy Island will get attacked by Vikings, and in the wake of this attack and destruction many of Hunlaf's friends are mutilated and killed, while also treasures are looted and many people are abducted, and one of them is Aelfwyn.
What is to follow is an astounding historical adventure, which is told in a very captivating manner by the author, and where the learning monk, Hunlaf, will turn into a warrior monk, and this transformation will often bring his faith in God in doubt, but in the end God will guide Hunlaf towards a path of justification in seeking revenge for the killing of his people by the Vikings, and after a bloody tour-de-force with the assistance from some real warriors and the people of Werceworthe, they will be able to repulse these Vikings and send them to the Otherworld.
Highly recommended, for this is an amazing start of a new series, and that's why I like to call this first episode: "A Magnificent Hunlaf Of Ubbanford Begin"!
December 26, 2020
4 stars
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a rousing historical fiction set in northern England in AD793. On June 8, AD793 Vikings pillage the monastery on Lindisfarne, and the Viking Age has begun. While Vikings kill and rape monks and villagers as they try to run from danger, a young monk named Hunlaf runs toward danger. Despite never swinging a sword before, he takes up a weapon and kills his first man. And so begins Hunlaf's journey from monk to warrior, and his quest for vengeance.
After the Vikings leave Lindisfarne, Hunlaf is one of only a few survivors. He is tasked with communicating with a Viking that has been captured. Through a series of events, Hunlaf convinces the King that the Vikings are coming back and that the monasteries along the coast need protection. The King allows Hunlaf to raise his own warrior band, but offers no aid to do so. Despite long odds, Hunlaf gathers a rag tag group of soldiers committed to training the villagers and monks in defense of his monastery.
If you like a book with war, tactics, fighting, blood and guts set in early England, this is the one for you. The book is unevenly paced, with the first one-fourth limping slowly along. Once Hunlaf gets the go-ahead to defend his monastery, the pace begins to pick up and stays steady from there on. I really liked Hunlaf, and enjoyed seeing the relationships with his fellow soldiers develop. The author did a great job of writing about Hunlaf's path from being a pious monk and his urge, and even enjoyment, of fighting in battle. He is clearly torn and thinks himself evil for wanting to fight, but can't allow the Vikings to destroy more of his country without a fight.
The book ends on an interesting cliffhanger. I look forward to reading the next book if this is going to be a series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a rousing historical fiction set in northern England in AD793. On June 8, AD793 Vikings pillage the monastery on Lindisfarne, and the Viking Age has begun. While Vikings kill and rape monks and villagers as they try to run from danger, a young monk named Hunlaf runs toward danger. Despite never swinging a sword before, he takes up a weapon and kills his first man. And so begins Hunlaf's journey from monk to warrior, and his quest for vengeance.
After the Vikings leave Lindisfarne, Hunlaf is one of only a few survivors. He is tasked with communicating with a Viking that has been captured. Through a series of events, Hunlaf convinces the King that the Vikings are coming back and that the monasteries along the coast need protection. The King allows Hunlaf to raise his own warrior band, but offers no aid to do so. Despite long odds, Hunlaf gathers a rag tag group of soldiers committed to training the villagers and monks in defense of his monastery.
If you like a book with war, tactics, fighting, blood and guts set in early England, this is the one for you. The book is unevenly paced, with the first one-fourth limping slowly along. Once Hunlaf gets the go-ahead to defend his monastery, the pace begins to pick up and stays steady from there on. I really liked Hunlaf, and enjoyed seeing the relationships with his fellow soldiers develop. The author did a great job of writing about Hunlaf's path from being a pious monk and his urge, and even enjoyment, of fighting in battle. He is clearly torn and thinks himself evil for wanting to fight, but can't allow the Vikings to destroy more of his country without a fight.
The book ends on an interesting cliffhanger. I look forward to reading the next book if this is going to be a series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2021
In my opinion, A Time for Swords is a tale of cultural discoveries, a self-revealing journey and friendships. From all the horrors of pillaging and plundering, I least expected the story based on rampage and raids would turn into something as heartfelt and touching as this book was.
I loved the book because it’s gory, it’s gripping, it’s somehow a little bit tantalising. I don’t know where the story will go, what place it would take me, and what to expect of each character (stupid Cormac!) This is rare that I took a chance on a new author’s work and found total satisfaction reading it. Matthew Harffy wrote the story made me feel as if I went on this journey with them.
I found myself being immersed in the situation, for I can feel Hunlaf’s contemplation about wanting to be a fighting man. I can certainly feel the way Runolf awed as he was marched from Bebbanburg (Bamburgh) to Eoforwic. He, the one from another culture, was given a chance to see the lives of the people he plundered not two days ago. At some point, I feel Runolf discovered that the people in the new land he’s in isn’t any different from his own people. And that, my friends, is the magic of travelling.
Read full review here
I loved the book because it’s gory, it’s gripping, it’s somehow a little bit tantalising. I don’t know where the story will go, what place it would take me, and what to expect of each character (stupid Cormac!) This is rare that I took a chance on a new author’s work and found total satisfaction reading it. Matthew Harffy wrote the story made me feel as if I went on this journey with them.
I found myself being immersed in the situation, for I can feel Hunlaf’s contemplation about wanting to be a fighting man. I can certainly feel the way Runolf awed as he was marched from Bebbanburg (Bamburgh) to Eoforwic. He, the one from another culture, was given a chance to see the lives of the people he plundered not two days ago. At some point, I feel Runolf discovered that the people in the new land he’s in isn’t any different from his own people. And that, my friends, is the magic of travelling.
Read full review here
December 15, 2020
A Time for Swords takes place a century on from the exploits of Beobrand in the Bernicia Chronicles, transporting the reader to the time of the first Viking raids on the northeast of Britain. Our narrator is Hunlaf who, in old age, seeks to record the story of an eventful life. As he says, “I’ve seen things people wouldn’t believe. A Turkic ship on fire off the shore of Odessa. I’ve watched sunbeams glitter in the dark eyes of the Empress of Roma as we passed beneath Byzantion’s Golden Gate. I do not want all those moments to be lost in time like the winter snow when the rains of spring come.” (Is it just me or is that a subtle allusion to the ‘tears in rain’ speech by Rutger Hauer at the end of the film Bladerunner? If so, it will demonstrate the efforts of my MA English tutor to have me grasp the concept of intertextuality were not in vain.)
Hunlaf begins his story looking back to his time as a young novice at the minster of Werceworthe (modern day Warkworth in Northumberland). Despite his vocation, Hunlaf admits to being enthralled as a boy by the tales his father told him of Beobrand’s exploits against the Mercians (the subject of Fortress of Fury). As a neat in-joke, the author has Hunlaf observe, “I am sure now…that all such yarns have been embellished, for is that not the way of the storyteller, to make the tale more exciting than the simple truth?”
When he travels to Lindisfarne with his fellow monk, Brother Leofstan, Hunlaf has an unexpected reunion and, with echoes of The Name of the Rose, catches sight of a forbidden book in the monastery’s library. Both events will be significant for the future but, for the time being, are overshadowed by the arrival of three Viking warships. Murder, rape and pillage follow but, during the raid, Hunlaf discovers his instinct is to fight the attackers not flee. That action will result in the forging of an unlikely alliance and mark a change in the future path of his life. It will also leave him with long-lasting memories of the dreadful sights he witnessed. “A warrior’s scars are many, and not all of them leave their mark on the flesh.”
Knowing the Vikings are likely to target other vulnerable sites such as Werceworthe, Hunlaf joins the search for warriors willing to help defend the community. Six eventually become a warband of seven, each with their own particular skill with sword, axe or bow. By the way, if you’re thinking seven is a significant (even a magnificent) number you’re correct, as the author explains in his afterword. Each of the seven have their own personal reasons for wanting to fight, whether that’s to test themselves against the best, to protect the weak or a desire for revenge.
Like the inhabitants of Werceworthe, the reader anxiously awaits the return of the Norsemen, hoping that the crude defensive devices they have prepared and their carefully thought-out plans will be sufficient to protect the community. It will come as no surprise to readers of Matthew Harffy’s previous books that the action scenes are vividly described so you feel every thud of axe upon shield, hear the swift flight of arrows towards the enemy and smell the burning houses. Will Hunlaf take up his quill to record more of his adventures? If he does, it promises to be to tell of a quest to rival John Wayne’s in The Searchers.
A Time For Swords is a skillfully crafted and compelling introduction to what seems certain to be an addictive new series for fans of historical fiction.
Hunlaf begins his story looking back to his time as a young novice at the minster of Werceworthe (modern day Warkworth in Northumberland). Despite his vocation, Hunlaf admits to being enthralled as a boy by the tales his father told him of Beobrand’s exploits against the Mercians (the subject of Fortress of Fury). As a neat in-joke, the author has Hunlaf observe, “I am sure now…that all such yarns have been embellished, for is that not the way of the storyteller, to make the tale more exciting than the simple truth?”
When he travels to Lindisfarne with his fellow monk, Brother Leofstan, Hunlaf has an unexpected reunion and, with echoes of The Name of the Rose, catches sight of a forbidden book in the monastery’s library. Both events will be significant for the future but, for the time being, are overshadowed by the arrival of three Viking warships. Murder, rape and pillage follow but, during the raid, Hunlaf discovers his instinct is to fight the attackers not flee. That action will result in the forging of an unlikely alliance and mark a change in the future path of his life. It will also leave him with long-lasting memories of the dreadful sights he witnessed. “A warrior’s scars are many, and not all of them leave their mark on the flesh.”
Knowing the Vikings are likely to target other vulnerable sites such as Werceworthe, Hunlaf joins the search for warriors willing to help defend the community. Six eventually become a warband of seven, each with their own particular skill with sword, axe or bow. By the way, if you’re thinking seven is a significant (even a magnificent) number you’re correct, as the author explains in his afterword. Each of the seven have their own personal reasons for wanting to fight, whether that’s to test themselves against the best, to protect the weak or a desire for revenge.
Like the inhabitants of Werceworthe, the reader anxiously awaits the return of the Norsemen, hoping that the crude defensive devices they have prepared and their carefully thought-out plans will be sufficient to protect the community. It will come as no surprise to readers of Matthew Harffy’s previous books that the action scenes are vividly described so you feel every thud of axe upon shield, hear the swift flight of arrows towards the enemy and smell the burning houses. Will Hunlaf take up his quill to record more of his adventures? If he does, it promises to be to tell of a quest to rival John Wayne’s in The Searchers.
A Time For Swords is a skillfully crafted and compelling introduction to what seems certain to be an addictive new series for fans of historical fiction.
May 1, 2023
I keep getting drawn back to Viking related tales though this one has the slightly different twist of viewing it from the perspective of those being plundered and pillaged by the Viking raiders.
This historical fiction uses the 793AD raid on the monastery at Lindisfarne in NE England as it’s starting point. This is considered the start of the ‘Viking Age’ when all of Europe was shocked by the raid by little known pagans from Scandinavia upon an undefended holy place.
I quite liked the lead character, a novice monk at Lindisfarne, who finds during the raid that he is drawn towards the sound of fighting rather than running away from it. He struggles with his apparent calling to learning and a peaceful praying life, finding that he’s probably more of a natural warrior. I like it when an historical fiction author tries to give us an insight into 8th century mindsets rather than transposes 21st century minds into that setting, something I do sometimes find elsewhere.
The author makes plain with a postscript that he has used the theme by which a team of warriors is recruited in The Seven Samurai/Magnificent Seven films in his book, to raise a war-band to combat future raids on a nearby monastery by this new enemy.
I’d previously enjoyed the author’s Wolf of Wessex, also set in dark age Saxon England and, as far as I know, tries to describe the lifestyle realistically, with good research also outlined in the postscript, and doesn’t sugar coat the rather grey, damp, muddy weather which still features in the English climate!
It is a straightforward adventure of warriors and peasants set within its historical context. An easy read.
A couple of minor critical points for me: I thought that the lead character, Hunlaf, reflected at rather too much length on his feelings and outlook when engaged in actions where instinct is maybe more critical (as in combat!). Not the only time I’ve found that in fiction I read. And having as recruits in the warband, an Englishman, Irishman, Scotsman and Welshman, did make me roll my eyes as it sounds like the start of a cheap joke sometimes made in the UK!
In summary, a good adventure tale, doing what historical fiction can do with some insights into life at the time. There is a follow up book which I’ll get around to reading too. 4*.
This historical fiction uses the 793AD raid on the monastery at Lindisfarne in NE England as it’s starting point. This is considered the start of the ‘Viking Age’ when all of Europe was shocked by the raid by little known pagans from Scandinavia upon an undefended holy place.
I quite liked the lead character, a novice monk at Lindisfarne, who finds during the raid that he is drawn towards the sound of fighting rather than running away from it. He struggles with his apparent calling to learning and a peaceful praying life, finding that he’s probably more of a natural warrior. I like it when an historical fiction author tries to give us an insight into 8th century mindsets rather than transposes 21st century minds into that setting, something I do sometimes find elsewhere.
The author makes plain with a postscript that he has used the theme by which a team of warriors is recruited in The Seven Samurai/Magnificent Seven films in his book, to raise a war-band to combat future raids on a nearby monastery by this new enemy.
I’d previously enjoyed the author’s Wolf of Wessex, also set in dark age Saxon England and, as far as I know, tries to describe the lifestyle realistically, with good research also outlined in the postscript, and doesn’t sugar coat the rather grey, damp, muddy weather which still features in the English climate!
It is a straightforward adventure of warriors and peasants set within its historical context. An easy read.
A couple of minor critical points for me: I thought that the lead character, Hunlaf, reflected at rather too much length on his feelings and outlook when engaged in actions where instinct is maybe more critical (as in combat!). Not the only time I’ve found that in fiction I read. And having as recruits in the warband, an Englishman, Irishman, Scotsman and Welshman, did make me roll my eyes as it sounds like the start of a cheap joke sometimes made in the UK!
In summary, a good adventure tale, doing what historical fiction can do with some insights into life at the time. There is a follow up book which I’ll get around to reading too. 4*.
December 2, 2020
I have to start this by saying I absolutely adore Matthew Harffy's writing. I'd probably be quite happy reading his grocery list. The plot of "A Time for Swords" is a simple one, but thoroughly enjoyable. It's one of those stories that seeps into your soul and carries you along. Having said that, it's pretty gruesome in parts and probably isn't a read for the faint of heart. There are some cracking characters that I can't wait to catch up with in the next book.
My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion.
My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion.
October 16, 2021
Harffy never fails to deliver. He’s certainly amongst my favourites these days. Glad I chose this incredible book to be my 1500th. (Which isn’t entirely accurate. There have been DNFs and many books I have forgotten to record that I have read in my youth. Even so, it’s a pretty cool accomplishment, I suppose.)
November 4, 2020
Historians may debate exactly when the dawn of the Viking Age should be placed in history, but from Britain’s point of view, there can be little doubt. In 793AD raiders crossed the North Sea and unleashed a devastating attack on the monastery of Lindisfarne. Such was its savagery that it burned a deep scar in the British psyche for a long time to come.
Matthew Harffy’s latest novel, "A Time for Swords", isn’t the first to deal with this event, but for my money, it’s the best. Harffy has already established himself as a master of the Dark Age thriller, and this novel is as thrilling as anything he’s written to date.
The novel opens with a young monk named Hunlaf under the tutelage of his spiritual and intellectual mentor, Leofstan. The pair are visiting the famous library at Lindisfarne on the eve of the day of doom. There, they have noticed a book called "The Treasure of Life", a Manichaean text proscribed by the Church. As a huge fan of "The Name of the Rose", this opening note struck me as particularly intriguing. However, this mystery is perhaps a seed for a later story, since before they are able to examine the book further, a band of Viking killers descends upon the island.
So begins the slaughter.
Harffy’s vision of the ensuing carnage is portrayed with customary skill and at a heart-racing pace. Crisis reveals character, and during this raid Hunlaf discovers himself to be a “man who runs towards danger, not away from it.” But thanks to another Norsemen, who turns on his own comrades in order to protect Hunlaf and two children, he survives.
The raiders depart, leaving behind this enigmatic Viking. In the wake of the devastation, most agree that hanging is too good for him. However, Hunlaf intervenes on his behalf, arguing that God must have allowed the Norseman to fall into their hands for some purpose.
So begins an unlikely friendship between Hunlaf and this hulking warrior, Runolf. News of the raid goes up the chain of command and at each turn Runolf’s fate hangs in the balance. But thanks to Hunlaf’s quick wits and his growing conviction that the Viking could help them defend against future raids, his life is spared.
A warrior named Hereward is charged with defending the monastery at Werceworthe (Hunlaf’s home). However, since the king’s forces already spread so thin, Hereward must muster his own men for the job. Here, Harffy introduces a delightfully motley crew of fighting men (and one equally deadly woman). Seven in all – a number reminiscent of The Magnificent Seven, which Harffy reveals in his author’s note was one of the inspirations behind this story. Each character is so well drawn, they feel worthy of a novel in their own right. A reticent and menacing Scot, an irrepressible Irishman, a sly and sharp-witted Welshman join Hunlaf and his laconic Norseman, whose catchphrase, “Anything is possible” is as typically Scandinavian as it is frustrating to his comrades.
As this unlikely band prepares for the feared attack, we share their sense of uncertainty and dread, even impatience for something to happen. Needless to say, Harffy makes it worth the wait. When the action comes, it piles towards a climax that is both savage and sustained.
Thrilling as that is, the heart of this book is about Hunlaf’s wrestle with his calling. Is he a man of peace - as we find him - or a man of war, as he seems destined to become? As a study of how that spiritual conflict plays out in the young man’s heart, this novel feels insightfully true. (It’s a refreshing change to see a historical novel deal with issues of faith in a way that doesn’t feel anachronistic.)
"A Time for Swords" is a wonderful story and a bold opening from Harffy to yet another enthralling series. The hints of where young Hunlaf’s epic story may lead beyond the shores of Northumbria (and the pages of this first volume) are tantalising, to say the least. It promises to be one heck of a ride.
Matthew Harffy’s latest novel, "A Time for Swords", isn’t the first to deal with this event, but for my money, it’s the best. Harffy has already established himself as a master of the Dark Age thriller, and this novel is as thrilling as anything he’s written to date.
The novel opens with a young monk named Hunlaf under the tutelage of his spiritual and intellectual mentor, Leofstan. The pair are visiting the famous library at Lindisfarne on the eve of the day of doom. There, they have noticed a book called "The Treasure of Life", a Manichaean text proscribed by the Church. As a huge fan of "The Name of the Rose", this opening note struck me as particularly intriguing. However, this mystery is perhaps a seed for a later story, since before they are able to examine the book further, a band of Viking killers descends upon the island.
So begins the slaughter.
Harffy’s vision of the ensuing carnage is portrayed with customary skill and at a heart-racing pace. Crisis reveals character, and during this raid Hunlaf discovers himself to be a “man who runs towards danger, not away from it.” But thanks to another Norsemen, who turns on his own comrades in order to protect Hunlaf and two children, he survives.
The raiders depart, leaving behind this enigmatic Viking. In the wake of the devastation, most agree that hanging is too good for him. However, Hunlaf intervenes on his behalf, arguing that God must have allowed the Norseman to fall into their hands for some purpose.
So begins an unlikely friendship between Hunlaf and this hulking warrior, Runolf. News of the raid goes up the chain of command and at each turn Runolf’s fate hangs in the balance. But thanks to Hunlaf’s quick wits and his growing conviction that the Viking could help them defend against future raids, his life is spared.
A warrior named Hereward is charged with defending the monastery at Werceworthe (Hunlaf’s home). However, since the king’s forces already spread so thin, Hereward must muster his own men for the job. Here, Harffy introduces a delightfully motley crew of fighting men (and one equally deadly woman). Seven in all – a number reminiscent of The Magnificent Seven, which Harffy reveals in his author’s note was one of the inspirations behind this story. Each character is so well drawn, they feel worthy of a novel in their own right. A reticent and menacing Scot, an irrepressible Irishman, a sly and sharp-witted Welshman join Hunlaf and his laconic Norseman, whose catchphrase, “Anything is possible” is as typically Scandinavian as it is frustrating to his comrades.
As this unlikely band prepares for the feared attack, we share their sense of uncertainty and dread, even impatience for something to happen. Needless to say, Harffy makes it worth the wait. When the action comes, it piles towards a climax that is both savage and sustained.
Thrilling as that is, the heart of this book is about Hunlaf’s wrestle with his calling. Is he a man of peace - as we find him - or a man of war, as he seems destined to become? As a study of how that spiritual conflict plays out in the young man’s heart, this novel feels insightfully true. (It’s a refreshing change to see a historical novel deal with issues of faith in a way that doesn’t feel anachronistic.)
"A Time for Swords" is a wonderful story and a bold opening from Harffy to yet another enthralling series. The hints of where young Hunlaf’s epic story may lead beyond the shores of Northumbria (and the pages of this first volume) are tantalising, to say the least. It promises to be one heck of a ride.
November 8, 2021
My thanks to Aria and Aries, Matt Harffly and Netgalley. 13% and full stop! I knew from the get go that this was not my groove. I'm sure that many others will enjoy this, but not me.
December 17, 2020
The book opens with monk Hunlaf deciding to transcribe the story of his life rather than the religious text he was supposed to. This immediately made me warm to his character! The story draws the reader in quite quickly and maintains their attention. Hunlaf describes how he set off to Lindisfarne with Brother Leofstan (the monk equivalent of his line manager) and Harffy creates a great sense of place. I can accurately picture in my mind’s eye Hunlaf and Leofstan make the crossing to Lindisfarne; a journey I’ve made myself. On arrival the first thing they see is a forbidden text in a beautiful bejewelled cover. The story progresses well and the Norsemen arrive to plunder and pillage. Hunlaf finds himself in a quandry does he run and hide or stay and fight? As a religious man, violence does not come to him naturally and he has a humble, simple past. The title is reference to the biblical passage about there being a season for everything (Ecclesiastes); this being a time of swords, so obviously Hunlaf chooses to fight.
He has a band of brothers in arms and I enjoy both the development of Hunlaf’s character and learning more about the others. There is a good balance of action packed scenes and the more philosophical internal struggle which Hunlaf experiences. The battle scenes are quite graphic, but nothing worse than I’d watch on TV. They are very well written! There is a lot going on in battle and to capture that successfully without confusing the reader is quite a skill. I can empathise with Hunlaf’s feelings regarding God’s plan in reference to the attack by the Norsemen. Also him being out of his depth or unqualified to engage in battle; I too have felt a touch of imposter syndrome. I have a little less patience for the extent (or duration) of Hunlaf’s personal crisis; but that probably says more about me than it does the book!
This is an enjoyable read with great story and character development. It took a little while to familiarise myself with the old names for familiar places. Helpfully though there is a glossary and map at the start to refer back to. The novel works well as a stand-alone, but I believe it’s actually the start of a new series. I’m intrigued to know more about Hunlaf’s life and of some of the other characters so I will keep an eye out for the next installment.
He has a band of brothers in arms and I enjoy both the development of Hunlaf’s character and learning more about the others. There is a good balance of action packed scenes and the more philosophical internal struggle which Hunlaf experiences. The battle scenes are quite graphic, but nothing worse than I’d watch on TV. They are very well written! There is a lot going on in battle and to capture that successfully without confusing the reader is quite a skill. I can empathise with Hunlaf’s feelings regarding God’s plan in reference to the attack by the Norsemen. Also him being out of his depth or unqualified to engage in battle; I too have felt a touch of imposter syndrome. I have a little less patience for the extent (or duration) of Hunlaf’s personal crisis; but that probably says more about me than it does the book!
This is an enjoyable read with great story and character development. It took a little while to familiarise myself with the old names for familiar places. Helpfully though there is a glossary and map at the start to refer back to. The novel works well as a stand-alone, but I believe it’s actually the start of a new series. I’m intrigued to know more about Hunlaf’s life and of some of the other characters so I will keep an eye out for the next installment.
December 12, 2020
BLURB
Lindisfarne, AD793. The life of a novice monk will be changed forever when the Vikings attack in a new historical adventure from Matthew Harffy.
There had been portents – famine, whirlwinds, lightning from clear skies, serpents seen flying through the air. But when the raiders came, no one was prepared.
They came from the North, their dragon-prowed longships gliding out of the dawn mist as they descended on the kingdom's most sacred site.
It is 8th June AD793, and with the pillage of the monastery on Lindisfarne, the Viking Age has begun.
While his fellow monks flee before the Norse onslaught, one young novice stands his ground. He has been taught to turn the other cheek, but faced with the slaughter of his brothers and the pagan desecration of his church, forgiveness is impossible.
Hunlaf soon learns that there is a time for faith and prayer... and there is a time for swords.
REVIEW
A riveting tale of coming to grips with life altering changes. A life of contemplation and learning suddenly rendered moot with the thrust of a seax. In yet another startling story of the brutal 8th century, the author has given this new cast of characters the same diligent attention to detail and development. An amalgamation of unlikely allies bonding together; an emotionally charged internal battle as Hunlaf moves farther from his life as a monk and closer to becoming a warrior, a storyline that leaves the reader guessing as to what's going to happen next. And extra points for getting in a mention of Beobrand. 😊 And even more extra points because this tale is just a beginning. 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 3, 2023
The story is set in Northumbria (England), in 793 AD, during the raids of the Norsemen to the coasts of the English Isles.
It is a story of strenght and redemption, loss and death; and a story of an unlikely band of warriors that come together to defeat Norsemen.
This is also the beginning of a new series by Matthew Harffy; I read Wolf of Wessex a few months ago and I loved everything about it. This book does not disappoint, it keeps the tension up and it is makes the characters pop. In fact, I am looking forward to reading more about this series (book 2 is already out and book 3 should be out end of September 2023).
On an even better note, there is at least another long series; I am pretty excited about what this series and this author have to offer!
It is a story of strenght and redemption, loss and death; and a story of an unlikely band of warriors that come together to defeat Norsemen.
This is also the beginning of a new series by Matthew Harffy; I read Wolf of Wessex a few months ago and I loved everything about it. This book does not disappoint, it keeps the tension up and it is makes the characters pop. In fact, I am looking forward to reading more about this series (book 2 is already out and book 3 should be out end of September 2023).
On an even better note, there is at least another long series; I am pretty excited about what this series and this author have to offer!
July 12, 2024
5 solid stars. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
December 8, 2020
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this gripping book
think kirk douglas and tony curtis in the vikings and that will give you a taste of what is to come
northmen aka vikings invading, pillaging and raping and looting for gold and silver
and on this day they came upon a village that was not guarded but full of monks and their monastery full of silver and gold and it was plundered and the village was hacked to death, many were killed and some were taken as slaves
but amongst the monks one rose to take up battle against the northmen and with the aid of a few good men they aimed to secure the next village that was destined to be attacked and with the aid of one of the northmen who was captured they began to train....
well didnt really know what to expect from this book but it held my imagination and i was hooked by it
will be keeping an eye out for more of this authors works
think kirk douglas and tony curtis in the vikings and that will give you a taste of what is to come
northmen aka vikings invading, pillaging and raping and looting for gold and silver
and on this day they came upon a village that was not guarded but full of monks and their monastery full of silver and gold and it was plundered and the village was hacked to death, many were killed and some were taken as slaves
but amongst the monks one rose to take up battle against the northmen and with the aid of a few good men they aimed to secure the next village that was destined to be attacked and with the aid of one of the northmen who was captured they began to train....
well didnt really know what to expect from this book but it held my imagination and i was hooked by it
will be keeping an eye out for more of this authors works
March 15, 2022
What finesse, A monk that takes a sword, great turmoil for a mind of a holy man.
Hunlaf is an humble but yet smart Holy man, becomes a warrior!
And the battles in these pages are so awesome you visualize every move and slice or stab🗡
I give this 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hunlaf is an humble but yet smart Holy man, becomes a warrior!
And the battles in these pages are so awesome you visualize every move and slice or stab🗡
I give this 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 20, 2020
This historical fiction novel takes you to Northumbria, England, 793AD. The story centers on Hunlaf, a monk who travels to the monastery at Lindisfarne, right before it is attacked by raiders from the sea(Vikings). His experience during the battle at Lindisfarne sets Hunlaf on a new path as he realizes he should be a warrior instead of a monk. As Hunlaf battles with himself over his decision to fight in defense of his monastery, he is thrown into a group of warriors sworn to help in its defense, even though they are greatly outnumbered. Each of these warriors has their own reasons for wanting to fight the raiders. The author does a wonderful job of describing what the typical life of a monk is like during this time period. It is easy to like Hunlaf and understand his struggles as his faith competes with his desire to be a warrior. His willingness to see Runolf as an individual and not just a heathen from the north, and the friendship that grows from this is a highlight of the story. You will quickly come to care about Hunlaf and the fates of his band of warriors as they defend the monastery. This is an excellent read for fans of early medieval British history. I was unaware of the events that occurred at Lindisfarne and really enjoy learning about these historical events. I am certainly hoping that Hunlaf continues to write of his adventures in future books.
"You each have your own reasons for being here. But all that matters now is that the time has come for us to stand together. The few against the many. We have readied ourselves for this moment, and I can think of no men I would rather have at my side when the storm of steel begins."
"You each have your own reasons for being here. But all that matters now is that the time has come for us to stand together. The few against the many. We have readied ourselves for this moment, and I can think of no men I would rather have at my side when the storm of steel begins."
November 5, 2022
Matthew Harffy captured the time and thoughts and actions from the people in these medieval times when the Vikings came to Britain beautifully.
I am in love with all the characters involved, the atmosphere, friendships, the warband and the battles.
Masterfully written in a loving and heartfelt way.
We follow a monk-to-be turned warrior through dire experiences. Hunlaf is the heart and soul of the story.
His inner conflicts are felt throughout the story he is telling us. Dark times indeed.
This was my first of his many books and i am absolutely sure, I am going to love the rest of them. Truely a master of his craft with so much love for history.
I am in love with all the characters involved, the atmosphere, friendships, the warband and the battles.
Masterfully written in a loving and heartfelt way.
We follow a monk-to-be turned warrior through dire experiences. Hunlaf is the heart and soul of the story.
His inner conflicts are felt throughout the story he is telling us. Dark times indeed.
This was my first of his many books and i am absolutely sure, I am going to love the rest of them. Truely a master of his craft with so much love for history.
January 12, 2021
It's always a joy to read a new Matthew Harffy novel. I buy his novels in advance in the confidence that this is an author guaranteed to deliver. I hadn't looked at any spoilers and knew nothing about his latest. Will it be a new Beobrand or a new Dunston? No. This is the first in a brand new saga set at the outset of the Viking invasions and our hero the warrior monk, Hunlaf, in the grand tradition of The Magnificent Seven, attempts to protect his town from invasion. We also get a tantalising glimpse of the adventures to come.
January 25, 2025
"A man with no purpose, is merely awaiting death"
A grim and violent tale. Can be a bit repetitive at times, but it captures the period well. A solid historical fiction with engaging characters.
A grim and violent tale. Can be a bit repetitive at times, but it captures the period well. A solid historical fiction with engaging characters.
December 21, 2020
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All the opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
'𝙈𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙨𝙚 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙨, 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙙𝙨, 𝙤𝙧, 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙨, 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙂𝙤𝙙. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙗𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙥 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙡. 𝙄 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙛 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙤𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩, 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙮 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙣. 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚.'
⚔️Northumbria, 793 AD. A sudden chance visit to the monastery of the Lindisfarne is going to change the life of a novice monk Hunlaf forever. When the dragon-prowed longships landed on the shores and the Norse onslaught began, Hunlaf, faced with the brutal massacre of his brothers and the pagan desecration of his church finds himself running towards the danger rather than running from it. In the face of danger, an unlikely ally, one of the heathen, Runlof saved his life. Hunlaf believes he was sent by the Christ Gods to save the kingdom, so he saved him from the King's judgment. Runlaf informed him now that the Norse knows the unguarded riches the monks have, they will surely return, of that, there is no doubt, the only question is when. Now it's upon Hunlaf to defend the monasteries from Norse invasion. He soon learns that there is a time for faith and prayer, and there is a time for swords.
'𝙂𝙤𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙖 𝙨𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙙 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙬𝙣. 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩.'
⚔️The plot of the book is cleverly woven around an actual historical event of the Viking raid on the monastery of the Lindisfarne on 8th June 793AD. Narrating from the first-person-perspective of the survivor monk Hunlaf, the book transported you back to the historical Northumbria, making you feel you are watching the story unfolded with your own eyes, such was Matthew's mastery of the genre. I loved the map, names of the places, and author's note provided in the book.
⚔️Matthew's writing is smooth and flawless. I have read all his books and I just absolutely adore his writing. It seems with each book he outdone his own previous work and this book is not an exception to that. The vivid descriptions, fast pacing narratives, sound of sword-song, an unlikely hero and his inner battles, everything gradually built up the tension and leaves the reader guessing as to what’s going to happen next.
⚔️Matthew had created a bunch of unforgettable characters. I loved Hunlaf's transformation from being a monk to becoming a warrior. His self-doubt, constant introspection and warrior skills remind me of Beobrand & his friend Coenred from The Bernicia Chronicles series. Other characters like Leofstan, Hereward, Gwawrddur, Daegmun, Drosten, Cromac, Wulfwaru are also immaculately crafted and developed. Each had his own story and reason to fight that makes you instantly connect with them.
⚔️The ending was satisfactory. There is a huge battle, swordplays, and bloodbath waiting for the reader at the end, followed by sacrifices, deaths, and revelations. It seems Matthew had planned some great adventures for Hunlaf leading him beyond the shores of Northumbria and I'll eagerly wait to read them in the future.
Overall, I think A Time for Swords is a great beginning of another enthralling series by Matthew and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. For every historical fiction fan, this book is a must-read. HIGHLY recommended.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)
'𝙈𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙨𝙚 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙨, 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙙𝙨, 𝙤𝙧, 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙨, 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙂𝙤𝙙. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙗𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙥 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙡. 𝙄 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙛 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙤𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩, 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙮 𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙣. 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚.'
⚔️Northumbria, 793 AD. A sudden chance visit to the monastery of the Lindisfarne is going to change the life of a novice monk Hunlaf forever. When the dragon-prowed longships landed on the shores and the Norse onslaught began, Hunlaf, faced with the brutal massacre of his brothers and the pagan desecration of his church finds himself running towards the danger rather than running from it. In the face of danger, an unlikely ally, one of the heathen, Runlof saved his life. Hunlaf believes he was sent by the Christ Gods to save the kingdom, so he saved him from the King's judgment. Runlaf informed him now that the Norse knows the unguarded riches the monks have, they will surely return, of that, there is no doubt, the only question is when. Now it's upon Hunlaf to defend the monasteries from Norse invasion. He soon learns that there is a time for faith and prayer, and there is a time for swords.
'𝙂𝙤𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙖 𝙨𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙙 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙬𝙣. 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩.'
⚔️The plot of the book is cleverly woven around an actual historical event of the Viking raid on the monastery of the Lindisfarne on 8th June 793AD. Narrating from the first-person-perspective of the survivor monk Hunlaf, the book transported you back to the historical Northumbria, making you feel you are watching the story unfolded with your own eyes, such was Matthew's mastery of the genre. I loved the map, names of the places, and author's note provided in the book.
⚔️Matthew's writing is smooth and flawless. I have read all his books and I just absolutely adore his writing. It seems with each book he outdone his own previous work and this book is not an exception to that. The vivid descriptions, fast pacing narratives, sound of sword-song, an unlikely hero and his inner battles, everything gradually built up the tension and leaves the reader guessing as to what’s going to happen next.
⚔️Matthew had created a bunch of unforgettable characters. I loved Hunlaf's transformation from being a monk to becoming a warrior. His self-doubt, constant introspection and warrior skills remind me of Beobrand & his friend Coenred from The Bernicia Chronicles series. Other characters like Leofstan, Hereward, Gwawrddur, Daegmun, Drosten, Cromac, Wulfwaru are also immaculately crafted and developed. Each had his own story and reason to fight that makes you instantly connect with them.
⚔️The ending was satisfactory. There is a huge battle, swordplays, and bloodbath waiting for the reader at the end, followed by sacrifices, deaths, and revelations. It seems Matthew had planned some great adventures for Hunlaf leading him beyond the shores of Northumbria and I'll eagerly wait to read them in the future.
Overall, I think A Time for Swords is a great beginning of another enthralling series by Matthew and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. For every historical fiction fan, this book is a must-read. HIGHLY recommended.
𝙈𝙮 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)
October 8, 2020
8th century England, monks, Vikings, raids, tension and suspense, danger and a lot of battle scenes. What is not to love? I was hooked immediately, but for some reasons other than what one might first think.
In the Hall of the Dragon King by Stephen Lawhead was one of the first “real” books I read when I was young. Granted, the details of the story are different to this one. The book begins with the dramatic arrival of a knight whose dying request propels a young acolyte on a dangerous mission. The fate of the kingdom is in his hands. Another book, Byzantium, also by Stephen Lawhead, “Aidan lives as a scribe in a remote Irish monastery on the far, wild edge of Christendom. Secure in work, contemplation, and dreams of the wider world, a miracle bursts into Aidan's quiet life.” Again, different details, different story. But both of these books were books I enjoyed in my younger years so bring back warm feelings and happy memories. And each of them have some similar characteristics to A Time for Swords.
It's difficult to compare these books without giving away spoilers, so I’ll simply say that one element connecting these books, first and foremost, is that they are stories about a nobody who is thrust into circumstances beyond his control and apparent abilities. He is given a moment in time to seize courage and adventure or to turn and hide, denying what is before him and hoping for the best. For those of you familiar with the Hero’s Journey, Joseph Campbell calls this “accepting the call.” And in this case, the hero is an unsuspecting young monk. I’m a sucker for this kind of straightforward storytelling.
I’ve read Matthew Harffy’s books since he self-published his first, Serpent Sword, and I’ve been a fan of them all. He’s been a consistent writer and strong storyteller. In all that time, I’ve had a front row seat, watching him grow and develop his skills. I’ve previously reviewed his skill in character development, storytelling, voice, etc. But this time, I will praise his structure. It’s his strongest yet.
I’m a bit of a story nerd, and I love to look at and analyze structure. As a well-written book in its own right – with a compelling story arc and a full cast of intriguing characters -- A Time for Swords is also an effective series opener.
It’s a tightly written book with little that’s unnecessary. Each chapter and scene progresses purposefully and has a function. There is little wasted real estate on the page. The story is satisfying and complete in its own right, but his introduction of characters and events very nicely sets up the events that will be coming in future books. It’s a good story with a promise of things to come. A two-fer, so to speak.
All of the good elements I just mentioned are wrapped up in layers of comfort -- good memories that harken back to stories I read in my youth which have stayed with me. So maybe I’m giving the author some nostalgia points he doesn’t deserve, but I still encourage you to go find Mr. Harffy’s books and see if I’m out of line. I don’t think I am.
In the Hall of the Dragon King by Stephen Lawhead was one of the first “real” books I read when I was young. Granted, the details of the story are different to this one. The book begins with the dramatic arrival of a knight whose dying request propels a young acolyte on a dangerous mission. The fate of the kingdom is in his hands. Another book, Byzantium, also by Stephen Lawhead, “Aidan lives as a scribe in a remote Irish monastery on the far, wild edge of Christendom. Secure in work, contemplation, and dreams of the wider world, a miracle bursts into Aidan's quiet life.” Again, different details, different story. But both of these books were books I enjoyed in my younger years so bring back warm feelings and happy memories. And each of them have some similar characteristics to A Time for Swords.
It's difficult to compare these books without giving away spoilers, so I’ll simply say that one element connecting these books, first and foremost, is that they are stories about a nobody who is thrust into circumstances beyond his control and apparent abilities. He is given a moment in time to seize courage and adventure or to turn and hide, denying what is before him and hoping for the best. For those of you familiar with the Hero’s Journey, Joseph Campbell calls this “accepting the call.” And in this case, the hero is an unsuspecting young monk. I’m a sucker for this kind of straightforward storytelling.
I’ve read Matthew Harffy’s books since he self-published his first, Serpent Sword, and I’ve been a fan of them all. He’s been a consistent writer and strong storyteller. In all that time, I’ve had a front row seat, watching him grow and develop his skills. I’ve previously reviewed his skill in character development, storytelling, voice, etc. But this time, I will praise his structure. It’s his strongest yet.
I’m a bit of a story nerd, and I love to look at and analyze structure. As a well-written book in its own right – with a compelling story arc and a full cast of intriguing characters -- A Time for Swords is also an effective series opener.
It’s a tightly written book with little that’s unnecessary. Each chapter and scene progresses purposefully and has a function. There is little wasted real estate on the page. The story is satisfying and complete in its own right, but his introduction of characters and events very nicely sets up the events that will be coming in future books. It’s a good story with a promise of things to come. A two-fer, so to speak.
All of the good elements I just mentioned are wrapped up in layers of comfort -- good memories that harken back to stories I read in my youth which have stayed with me. So maybe I’m giving the author some nostalgia points he doesn’t deserve, but I still encourage you to go find Mr. Harffy’s books and see if I’m out of line. I don’t think I am.
December 6, 2020
A coming of age / hero's journey adventure set in 8th Century England, in which a young monk struggles with his identity in the face of Viking incursions.
The first in a series, which the author himself says, pays homage to that great underdog film "The Magnificent Seven". A motley crew of warriors drawn from all corners of the Anglo-Saxon and Celtic world must pit themselves against the might of the Vikings. Told in the first person, Hunlaf recounts the tale of his youth, struggling with his identity - he is " ... a warrior in the clothes of a monk ... ".
The Anglo-Saxon period is well known to Harffy, whose "Bernicia Chronicle" series is set in this time, so there is no doubt that he had on hand a dearth of information from which to craft his tale.
I am sure that readers of Bernard Cornwell, Edoardo Albert, Robert Low, Giles Kristian, Tim Hodkinson would enjoy this.
The first in a series, which the author himself says, pays homage to that great underdog film "The Magnificent Seven". A motley crew of warriors drawn from all corners of the Anglo-Saxon and Celtic world must pit themselves against the might of the Vikings. Told in the first person, Hunlaf recounts the tale of his youth, struggling with his identity - he is " ... a warrior in the clothes of a monk ... ".
The Anglo-Saxon period is well known to Harffy, whose "Bernicia Chronicle" series is set in this time, so there is no doubt that he had on hand a dearth of information from which to craft his tale.
I am sure that readers of Bernard Cornwell, Edoardo Albert, Robert Low, Giles Kristian, Tim Hodkinson would enjoy this.
March 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Very solid and enjoyed it, characters felt familiar to other stories I’ve read but never in a bad way! Will definitely carry on with the series at some point
Very solid and enjoyed it, characters felt familiar to other stories I’ve read but never in a bad way! Will definitely carry on with the series at some point
December 11, 2020
Now we all know Matthew Harffy is a master wordsmith. The Bernicia Chronicles has to be one of my favourite sagas and The Wolf of Wessex packs a punch, so of course I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy of his latest work… A Time for Swords.
Word of warning, I don’t like spoilers but I can’t help but give little tit bits away on this one. Otherwise, I can’t do the review justice. Do not worry, I’ll be sure to keep it to a minimum 😊
This is a fresh tale for the author who moves away from his well-established characters to bring us the tale of Hunlaf, a monk, forced to stand tall when the Norse attack!
Oh, you miss Beobrand and his Black Shields just as much as me? Don’t worry.. the author adds some really nice touches to the tale.. it might not be Beobrand’s tale but his legend lives on! It’s this gentle nod the author gives to his tales that really make you appreciate the effort he makes.. he’s writing these tales for you.. he knows exactly what you want to hear.
Hunlaf, where to start. God I loved his character. He loves nothing more than a good book (who doesn’t? 😊 ) and lives a life under the protection of God. Along with his mentor Leofstan he visits Lindisfarne after a exciting discovery is made… only to have his life turned on end.
The Norse attack.. and it’s brutal.. savage.. gut wrenching. This might be a work of fiction but it’s based on real facts..The Norse really did attack, rape, pillage and murder and while we can never really know how it would have felt at the time to see it through Hunlaf’s eyes was hard to swallow.
This battle is a turning point in Hunlaf’s life as he makes a stand in order to save his cousin..he’s not a warrior though.. or does he hold that fire within him to run towards danger rather than away from it?
An unlikely ally emerges from the smoke and fire.. a heathen devil called Runolf. Hunlaf is torn..does he truly believe this man was brought to him by God to help..or does he just not want to see other people die needlessly.
Either way the Norse will return, of that is there is no doubt… they know the riches the monks have. Can Runolf and Hunlaf really stand up against an onslaught?
Help isn’t easy to come by. No one knows when the Norse will return. There’s just not enough fighting men to go around.. It’s all on Hunlaf and a small band of men to turn the tide.
This little band of men really bloody excited me, each have their own talent and purpose for being and they are here to defend those who cannot defend themselves.
Hereward, a man I loathed at first.. his role is to lead and on his head be it if Runlof should disgrace his lord.
Drosten, a man of few words.. he prefers to let his fists do the talking.
Gwawrddur, whose skill with a blade cannot be matched.
Cormac, the cocky one with skill but who also needs to keep his temper in check.
When the battle comes it’s intense and there’s a beauty of a twist thrown in. It’s a twist I hoped for if I’m honest..Let’s see if you can spot which twist I’m referring to 😊
Now the ending! Come on! It’s killing me already.. I need more ha. What the author manages quite brilliantly to do is to leave a cliff-hanger so perfect..it’s designed so well for the author he can either write a sequel or leave it as a standalone… Although I do hope this isn’t the end.
Truthfully, I’ve read everything Matthew Harffy has published. I’ve been a fan from day one. A Time for Swords is the best yet from him and quite easily a top read of 2020! Harffy never fails to deliver, every offering is new and refreshing but you instantly feel at home with his writing and warm to the characters.
Flawless!
Word of warning, I don’t like spoilers but I can’t help but give little tit bits away on this one. Otherwise, I can’t do the review justice. Do not worry, I’ll be sure to keep it to a minimum 😊
This is a fresh tale for the author who moves away from his well-established characters to bring us the tale of Hunlaf, a monk, forced to stand tall when the Norse attack!
Oh, you miss Beobrand and his Black Shields just as much as me? Don’t worry.. the author adds some really nice touches to the tale.. it might not be Beobrand’s tale but his legend lives on! It’s this gentle nod the author gives to his tales that really make you appreciate the effort he makes.. he’s writing these tales for you.. he knows exactly what you want to hear.
Hunlaf, where to start. God I loved his character. He loves nothing more than a good book (who doesn’t? 😊 ) and lives a life under the protection of God. Along with his mentor Leofstan he visits Lindisfarne after a exciting discovery is made… only to have his life turned on end.
The Norse attack.. and it’s brutal.. savage.. gut wrenching. This might be a work of fiction but it’s based on real facts..The Norse really did attack, rape, pillage and murder and while we can never really know how it would have felt at the time to see it through Hunlaf’s eyes was hard to swallow.
This battle is a turning point in Hunlaf’s life as he makes a stand in order to save his cousin..he’s not a warrior though.. or does he hold that fire within him to run towards danger rather than away from it?
An unlikely ally emerges from the smoke and fire.. a heathen devil called Runolf. Hunlaf is torn..does he truly believe this man was brought to him by God to help..or does he just not want to see other people die needlessly.
Either way the Norse will return, of that is there is no doubt… they know the riches the monks have. Can Runolf and Hunlaf really stand up against an onslaught?
Help isn’t easy to come by. No one knows when the Norse will return. There’s just not enough fighting men to go around.. It’s all on Hunlaf and a small band of men to turn the tide.
This little band of men really bloody excited me, each have their own talent and purpose for being and they are here to defend those who cannot defend themselves.
Hereward, a man I loathed at first.. his role is to lead and on his head be it if Runlof should disgrace his lord.
Drosten, a man of few words.. he prefers to let his fists do the talking.
Gwawrddur, whose skill with a blade cannot be matched.
Cormac, the cocky one with skill but who also needs to keep his temper in check.
When the battle comes it’s intense and there’s a beauty of a twist thrown in. It’s a twist I hoped for if I’m honest..Let’s see if you can spot which twist I’m referring to 😊
Now the ending! Come on! It’s killing me already.. I need more ha. What the author manages quite brilliantly to do is to leave a cliff-hanger so perfect..it’s designed so well for the author he can either write a sequel or leave it as a standalone… Although I do hope this isn’t the end.
Truthfully, I’ve read everything Matthew Harffy has published. I’ve been a fan from day one. A Time for Swords is the best yet from him and quite easily a top read of 2020! Harffy never fails to deliver, every offering is new and refreshing but you instantly feel at home with his writing and warm to the characters.
Flawless!
December 15, 2020
As a big fan of historical fiction, and more than a bit partial to a good battle now and again, A Time For Swords was an absolute joy!
In this first book of this new series, Matthew Harffy introduces us to young Hunlaf, who lives a contemplative life as a monk, dedicated to learning and a life of service to God. However, Hunlaf finds the course of his life taking a most unexpected turn after he takes a trip to the monastery on Lindisfarne with his teacher, and fellow monk, Leofstan - for while they are there, brutal Viking raiders from the North attack in search of treasure.
The Viking Age has begun. The peaceful religious communities of Northumberland have caught the eyes of these Norse men, and the slaughter reigned down on the monks and villagers on Lindisfarne has whetted their appetite for more.
Hunlaf is horrified by what he has seen, puzzled by his own reaction to the bloodshed he experienced and has somehow taken on the role as interpreter and guardian for a captive Viking raider, who goes by the name of Runolf. He has come to realise that turning the other cheek may not be the best way to protect his people from future danger and that instead now may be the time for swords....
What follows is what I would describe as Bernard Cornwell does The Magnificent Seven, as Hunlaf becomes part of a quest to find a band of protectors for his own monastery of Werceworthe, which is likely to become the next target for the raiders from the North, and it is glorious!
This is the kind of book that is full of great characters - loveable rogues, with tough exteriors and heart rending tales of their own, who band together to protect the innocent and lay their own ghosts to rest at the same time. Matthew Haffty regales us with bags of historical detail about life in Northumberland during this period, and clearly relishes describing the combative elements of the story - especially the battle scenes, which are thrilling.
There is a cracking little twist at the end of the book, which students of Viking surnames may get a little hint of before it hits you full in the face, and the hook that Matthew Harffy baits to tempt us into the next book is a corker!
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale and cannot wait for the next book, because where Hunlaf and his little band of warriors are headed next promises to be very exciting indeed.
In this first book of this new series, Matthew Harffy introduces us to young Hunlaf, who lives a contemplative life as a monk, dedicated to learning and a life of service to God. However, Hunlaf finds the course of his life taking a most unexpected turn after he takes a trip to the monastery on Lindisfarne with his teacher, and fellow monk, Leofstan - for while they are there, brutal Viking raiders from the North attack in search of treasure.
The Viking Age has begun. The peaceful religious communities of Northumberland have caught the eyes of these Norse men, and the slaughter reigned down on the monks and villagers on Lindisfarne has whetted their appetite for more.
Hunlaf is horrified by what he has seen, puzzled by his own reaction to the bloodshed he experienced and has somehow taken on the role as interpreter and guardian for a captive Viking raider, who goes by the name of Runolf. He has come to realise that turning the other cheek may not be the best way to protect his people from future danger and that instead now may be the time for swords....
What follows is what I would describe as Bernard Cornwell does The Magnificent Seven, as Hunlaf becomes part of a quest to find a band of protectors for his own monastery of Werceworthe, which is likely to become the next target for the raiders from the North, and it is glorious!
This is the kind of book that is full of great characters - loveable rogues, with tough exteriors and heart rending tales of their own, who band together to protect the innocent and lay their own ghosts to rest at the same time. Matthew Haffty regales us with bags of historical detail about life in Northumberland during this period, and clearly relishes describing the combative elements of the story - especially the battle scenes, which are thrilling.
There is a cracking little twist at the end of the book, which students of Viking surnames may get a little hint of before it hits you full in the face, and the hook that Matthew Harffy baits to tempt us into the next book is a corker!
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale and cannot wait for the next book, because where Hunlaf and his little band of warriors are headed next promises to be very exciting indeed.
December 7, 2021
This story takes us back to the year 793, during the Viking Age, with the Norse invading England, and a group of monks defending their land. Our focus is on a man called Hunlaf, who goes from monk to warrior.
I loved the detail, which totally immersed me in the setting and era. The way Hunlaf trained and gathered a ragtag band of men to fight alongside him came alive on the pages.
That being said, Hunlaf tended to grate on my nerves. We spent too much time on philosophizing and introspection, as Hunlaf continually grappled with his allegiance to his church and vows versus his desire for battle.
Pacing is uneven, which is largely due to the repetition with Hunlaf’s inner demons.
Then we have the dreaded cliffhanger at the end. When I requested this book, I had no idea it was the first in a series. That isn’t in the description or the cover of my book. But it’s listed here on Goodreads as the first in the Time for Swords series. So there you have it.
*I received a free copy from Kaye Publicity.*
I loved the detail, which totally immersed me in the setting and era. The way Hunlaf trained and gathered a ragtag band of men to fight alongside him came alive on the pages.
That being said, Hunlaf tended to grate on my nerves. We spent too much time on philosophizing and introspection, as Hunlaf continually grappled with his allegiance to his church and vows versus his desire for battle.
Pacing is uneven, which is largely due to the repetition with Hunlaf’s inner demons.
Then we have the dreaded cliffhanger at the end. When I requested this book, I had no idea it was the first in a series. That isn’t in the description or the cover of my book. But it’s listed here on Goodreads as the first in the Time for Swords series. So there you have it.
*I received a free copy from Kaye Publicity.*
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December 24, 2020This was my first venture into Harffy’s writing but will not be my last as I really enjoyed the writing style throughout, as the author created a very vivid, believable world woven around a real historical event. Having read a lot of Norse-focused fiction lately due to Norsevemeber, I had high expectations with this one and it more than lived up to them, and I particularly liked the detail and focus on a real event, and A Time of Swords was well balanced between information about the period and events and action and story. The characters were well-written too, and Hunlaf made for an excellent main character, and it was fascinating to see his growth and transformation from monk to warrior, and it was done in a very believable way, with introspection and self-doubt, and it was impossible not to be invested in his story. While the wider cast was equally well-developed with individual and unique voices, motivations and roles within this story.
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