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The Light of the North #1
A Song of Steel
Alternate history - 1116 AD. Three hundred years of cruel Viking raids have finally united Christian Europe against the pagan Northlands. A great crusade has been called to pacify the wild Norse kingdoms. The banner of the cross has been raised against the north, and all the power and fury of the west rides under it.
Ordulf, a talented young German swordsmith, is ripped from his comfortable life and cast into the bloody chaos of the crusade. As fate deals him a cruel blow in the lands of his enemies, he will have to forge a new path through the chaos, or be consumed by it.
In the Northlands, three rival kingdoms must unite to survive the onslaught. But can any man, king or commoner, unite the bickering brotherhood of the Norse? Or is the time of the Vikings finally drawing to a violent end. Heroes will fail, kings will fall, and ordinary people will fight for the right to a future.
An epic saga of war, love and politics sure to delight fans of Bernard Cornwell, Giles Krystian, Matthew Harffy, Christian Cameron and all lovers of historical fiction.
Ordulf, a talented young German swordsmith, is ripped from his comfortable life and cast into the bloody chaos of the crusade. As fate deals him a cruel blow in the lands of his enemies, he will have to forge a new path through the chaos, or be consumed by it.
In the Northlands, three rival kingdoms must unite to survive the onslaught. But can any man, king or commoner, unite the bickering brotherhood of the Norse? Or is the time of the Vikings finally drawing to a violent end. Heroes will fail, kings will fall, and ordinary people will fight for the right to a future.
An epic saga of war, love and politics sure to delight fans of Bernard Cornwell, Giles Krystian, Matthew Harffy, Christian Cameron and all lovers of historical fiction.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2021
411 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Duncan
11 books56 followersJames C Duncan is a debut author fascinated with history and fantasy. He writes historical fantasy/fiction based on our world, but in an alternate timeline, past, present or future, where each book or series asks and tries to answer a question of 'What if?' His first series 'The Light of the North saga', asks the question 'What if the Norse didn't convert to Christianity, and instead the Viking raids continued.' And posits the answer, which you will have to read the book to find out! James does not create new worlds, he messes with the history and future of ours, grounded in our own history and the laws of our universe, but tweaked in events and often adding a soft sprinkling of the divine or fantastical, resulting in relatable historical and future fantasy.
Upcoming books include the questions:
'What if the black death was actually a coverup of something much, much worse.' An alternate history of the time of the black death, based in southern Europe and the Middle East.
'What if the human race develops a race of gene engineered worker drones, but they are turned against us.' A post apocalyptic fiction set in the 22nd century in Poland and Hungary
James is a professional engineer, and splits his spare time writing, reading, and being an amateur bladesmith.
Upcoming books include the questions:
'What if the black death was actually a coverup of something much, much worse.' An alternate history of the time of the black death, based in southern Europe and the Middle East.
'What if the human race develops a race of gene engineered worker drones, but they are turned against us.' A post apocalyptic fiction set in the 22nd century in Poland and Hungary
James is a professional engineer, and splits his spare time writing, reading, and being an amateur bladesmith.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 17, 2023
3.5 stars (rounded up)
For me, this is a difficult book to review. It features an alternate version of Scandinavian history in the early 12th century. In this version the Pope launches a crusade against the Vikings in order to end their raids and impose Christianity upon the Scandinavian populace. The story begins with a major archaeological discovery in the 21st century and then goes on to describe the back story to these finds. We see the beginnings of the crusade from the point of view of a young metal worker, his Christian lords and masters and the opposing Scandinavian war lords. The story, in my opinion, flitted around all over the place and we were treated to a long discourse on the merits of sword manufacturing and other feats of engineering in the middle ages. It was a well researched tale, descriptions of battles and skirmishes were good, and so was the (overriding) political infighting within each warring party. Unfortunately, I found the book a bit tedious. Sorry!
For me, this is a difficult book to review. It features an alternate version of Scandinavian history in the early 12th century. In this version the Pope launches a crusade against the Vikings in order to end their raids and impose Christianity upon the Scandinavian populace. The story begins with a major archaeological discovery in the 21st century and then goes on to describe the back story to these finds. We see the beginnings of the crusade from the point of view of a young metal worker, his Christian lords and masters and the opposing Scandinavian war lords. The story, in my opinion, flitted around all over the place and we were treated to a long discourse on the merits of sword manufacturing and other feats of engineering in the middle ages. It was a well researched tale, descriptions of battles and skirmishes were good, and so was the (overriding) political infighting within each warring party. Unfortunately, I found the book a bit tedious. Sorry!
May 10, 2021
A Song of Steel is a self-published debut novel by J.C. Duncan and is the first book in The Light of The North Saga. This book synopsis is:
“Alternate history - 1116 AD. Three hundred years of cruel Viking raids have finally united Christian Europe against the pagan Northlands. A great crusade has been called to pacify the wild Norse kingdoms. The banner of the cross has been raised against the north, and all the power and fury of the west rides under it.”
What did I love?
One of the most intriguing aspects of this book is the concept. J.C. Duncan is asking the question, “What would have happened if Scandinavia didn’t convert to Christianity and the Vikings didn’t disappear?” I find the concept incredibly fascinating.
Furthermore, I loved the beginning of this book. The book starts in 2015, where a fisherman and his daughter discover a sword in a lake. The book then takes an abrupt turn and goes back to 1116 AD, where the reader is introduced to two main POVs. The beginning of this book made me intrigued to know more about this sword and learn about its history.
We follow two main POVs in this book, a talented Christian swordsmith named Ordulf and a Viking called Ragnvald. Ordulf is an underdog and goes through several challenges in this book, making the reader root for him. Ordulf is the most memorable character in this story and the main highlight.
What did I not love?
Unfortunately, I never felt invested in the war that was brewing. I did not care about the Vikings and their strategic plotting and manoeuvring. The reader is not engaged in the depth and complexity of this conflict before it breaks out, which is why I didn’t really care about who was winning or losing.
I also had a difficult time connecting with the character Ragnvald. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel invested in his plotline, which made a substantial part of this book feel slow.
Conclusion
In conclusion, A Song of Steel is a solid debut novel. J.C. Duncan is clearly a talented writer with an accessible writing style. A Song of Steel has a fascinating concept, and the character Ordulf is memorable and compelling. Unfortunately, I had a difficult time feeling invested in the central conflict or the character Ragnvald. I would recommend this book to readers who are interested in Vikings and Norse history.
3 / 5 stars
A special thanks to J.C. Duncan for sending me a physical copy in exchange for an honest review.
“Alternate history - 1116 AD. Three hundred years of cruel Viking raids have finally united Christian Europe against the pagan Northlands. A great crusade has been called to pacify the wild Norse kingdoms. The banner of the cross has been raised against the north, and all the power and fury of the west rides under it.”
What did I love?
One of the most intriguing aspects of this book is the concept. J.C. Duncan is asking the question, “What would have happened if Scandinavia didn’t convert to Christianity and the Vikings didn’t disappear?” I find the concept incredibly fascinating.
Furthermore, I loved the beginning of this book. The book starts in 2015, where a fisherman and his daughter discover a sword in a lake. The book then takes an abrupt turn and goes back to 1116 AD, where the reader is introduced to two main POVs. The beginning of this book made me intrigued to know more about this sword and learn about its history.
We follow two main POVs in this book, a talented Christian swordsmith named Ordulf and a Viking called Ragnvald. Ordulf is an underdog and goes through several challenges in this book, making the reader root for him. Ordulf is the most memorable character in this story and the main highlight.
What did I not love?
Unfortunately, I never felt invested in the war that was brewing. I did not care about the Vikings and their strategic plotting and manoeuvring. The reader is not engaged in the depth and complexity of this conflict before it breaks out, which is why I didn’t really care about who was winning or losing.
I also had a difficult time connecting with the character Ragnvald. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel invested in his plotline, which made a substantial part of this book feel slow.
Conclusion
In conclusion, A Song of Steel is a solid debut novel. J.C. Duncan is clearly a talented writer with an accessible writing style. A Song of Steel has a fascinating concept, and the character Ordulf is memorable and compelling. Unfortunately, I had a difficult time feeling invested in the central conflict or the character Ragnvald. I would recommend this book to readers who are interested in Vikings and Norse history.
3 / 5 stars
A special thanks to J.C. Duncan for sending me a physical copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2021
A song of Steel is a debut novel that heralds epic fantasy in its rawest form. The story can envelop you like a long lost relative after spending months apart. Every interconnecting aspect of it just feels right. From its brutally accurate characterization and its dramatic historic landscape, it’s the kind of story that leaves you grappling for cognitive cohesion. The immersion and the compulsiveness has you addicted within a few pages. Duncan’s spellbinding narrative took me hostage and posted my ransom…although, truth be told, I didn’t want anyone to pay it!
A Song of Steel is just another book that shows that Indie Fantasy is where its at right now. My kindle only just made it out of the exchange with its life. The twists and turns and sense of adventure had me turning the page with a frenzied vigor. Have you ever picked up a story that just spoke to you? A story that sets your synapses firing. A story that feels like a bit of history in your hand. The story felt like a living and breathing entity, it was real, it was alive and the experience of consuming it is exactly why I began reading in the first place.
As stated, before this is a story that I greedily gobbled up. If you are expecting to read a few chapters at a time, forget about it. This is a story that will demand to be consumed within a few sittings. Trying to do anything other than that will be a futile struggle. Norse fiction. Survival. Brutality. Unbreakable bonds. The prose was outstanding.
We are transported back to the 1100’s, to a world in chaos and dismay, but first we are introduced to modern day characters who come upon some archaeological finds in a river, chainmail and a sword. We are then taken back in time to meet Ordulf, a German swordsmith who is honing his skills. We see an alternate history – we get a glimpse into the raiding and pillaging, oh and battle sequences and violence galore. This is where the story truly came to life, I couldn’t help but imagine it on the big screen, the imagery was exquisite. Every expectation that I had for this glorious tale was exceeded, my brain wanted to explode.
A Song of Steel moves forward seamlessly. The characterization is one of strength and unity. Things lead to a point of crescendo and then it all hits the fan. The narrative is laser precise and constantly hits the target. A Song of Steel feels like an intricate magical spell, it makes you fall deeper and deeper and it more than hit the mark in my favourite sub-genre of historical fiction.
A Song of Steel and its deep immersion into their world was filled with great characters, superb pacing and raw battle scenes had me hungering for more.
A Song of Steel is just another book that shows that Indie Fantasy is where its at right now. My kindle only just made it out of the exchange with its life. The twists and turns and sense of adventure had me turning the page with a frenzied vigor. Have you ever picked up a story that just spoke to you? A story that sets your synapses firing. A story that feels like a bit of history in your hand. The story felt like a living and breathing entity, it was real, it was alive and the experience of consuming it is exactly why I began reading in the first place.
As stated, before this is a story that I greedily gobbled up. If you are expecting to read a few chapters at a time, forget about it. This is a story that will demand to be consumed within a few sittings. Trying to do anything other than that will be a futile struggle. Norse fiction. Survival. Brutality. Unbreakable bonds. The prose was outstanding.
We are transported back to the 1100’s, to a world in chaos and dismay, but first we are introduced to modern day characters who come upon some archaeological finds in a river, chainmail and a sword. We are then taken back in time to meet Ordulf, a German swordsmith who is honing his skills. We see an alternate history – we get a glimpse into the raiding and pillaging, oh and battle sequences and violence galore. This is where the story truly came to life, I couldn’t help but imagine it on the big screen, the imagery was exquisite. Every expectation that I had for this glorious tale was exceeded, my brain wanted to explode.
A Song of Steel moves forward seamlessly. The characterization is one of strength and unity. Things lead to a point of crescendo and then it all hits the fan. The narrative is laser precise and constantly hits the target. A Song of Steel feels like an intricate magical spell, it makes you fall deeper and deeper and it more than hit the mark in my favourite sub-genre of historical fiction.
A Song of Steel and its deep immersion into their world was filled with great characters, superb pacing and raw battle scenes had me hungering for more.
February 22, 2021
I was lucky enough to get to an advance read of this.. or more than one, as I read a few different revisions of the book as it was being finished and adjusted and edited. And all those revisions come together in the version you are lucky enough to see here as he perfected the story.
without adding spoilers, the book is set in a fictional 1100's where the vikings didn't stop going raiding and pillaging across europe, where they didn't settle and become traders. Imagine a time where the sight of sails coming out of the mists of the sea set most of europe to terror, with their wild warriors and pagan worshipping.
now imagine them doing it in a europe united under the holy roman empire of the middle ages.
what happens next is inevitable you might think. a crusade to passify the norse lands. to bring religion to the pagan norse.
james character development are just one of his strength. his story unfolds naturally and you find yourself carried along on its wave (No pun intended... well ok, maybe a little). the characters and story develope naturally, with well timed action, balanced with the humanity of people just trying to survive and live in a world going mad as the europeans grapple among themselves for power and to extend their own influence.
the result is the equal of any of the norse writers you have on your shelves. J.C.Duncan is a rising star of norse mythology and a song of steel will be a classic when the series gets finished
without adding spoilers, the book is set in a fictional 1100's where the vikings didn't stop going raiding and pillaging across europe, where they didn't settle and become traders. Imagine a time where the sight of sails coming out of the mists of the sea set most of europe to terror, with their wild warriors and pagan worshipping.
now imagine them doing it in a europe united under the holy roman empire of the middle ages.
what happens next is inevitable you might think. a crusade to passify the norse lands. to bring religion to the pagan norse.
james character development are just one of his strength. his story unfolds naturally and you find yourself carried along on its wave (No pun intended... well ok, maybe a little). the characters and story develope naturally, with well timed action, balanced with the humanity of people just trying to survive and live in a world going mad as the europeans grapple among themselves for power and to extend their own influence.
the result is the equal of any of the norse writers you have on your shelves. J.C.Duncan is a rising star of norse mythology and a song of steel will be a classic when the series gets finished
September 22, 2022
Great book, fun to read. Little bit of a slow start but looking forward to rest of the series. Action packed, some comedic notes, interesting history notes, and a cool fictional spin on the vikings.
April 7, 2021
Mr.Duncan has converted me and I can now say I'm a big fan of his work.Such interesting characters,plot,pacing and writing.I was pretty compelled to keep turning the pages and I loved all the battle scenes and all the intricate details of sword making.The only thing stopping me from giving this a five star rating was that parts of the Norse tribes narrative was a bit confusing to me.It is a high four and half from me and anyone interested in Norse culture do yourself a favor and pick this up.Thank you to Netgalley for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2021
Great Read
So I think I shall find myself reading more of James Duncan. This was a great read with everything I look for in historical fiction and engaging prose that made the book hard to put down and kept me invested in the characters. Kudos as well for picking a part of history not exhaustively written about. Probably the best part.
So I think I shall find myself reading more of James Duncan. This was a great read with everything I look for in historical fiction and engaging prose that made the book hard to put down and kept me invested in the characters. Kudos as well for picking a part of history not exhaustively written about. Probably the best part.
January 8, 2022
This review contains minor spoilers, and you read at your discretion.
A Song of Steel is an alternate realm of history where Christianity did not spread into the lands of the Vikings through missionaries but through the old-fashioned way of Crusades. It is rip-roaring, epic and ambitious in scale. This great crusade Christian Europe embarks upon has repercussions set along the shores of the Scandinavian peninsula. This book has some of the most illustrative battle scenes you will witness in this novel. Meticulous attention on craftsmanship, armour and writing realistic descriptions of assaults and sieges proves that J.C Duncan has done his research right. This novel is a good example of how well researched material can make your world come alive.
We start with the character of Ordulf, a big lad from Minden. He’s a quirky, innovative character that can be an extremely talented blacksmith. Of course, his master isn’t the best of teachers. The chemistry between Master Blacksmith and Ordulf is rocky. As the call for the Crusade to destroy the fierce Vikings grows. Ordulf’s life catapults into a campaign of the war, far from the comforts that he enjoyed. He experiences what campaigning in an army is like. And it changes his view of life forever. Some criticisms I had of this novel, was that the battle scenes were far deeper and complex and sometimes that took over the expense of the story. Many characters that Ordulf interacts with are good interactions, but sometimes I feel I didn’t get enough time to develop that chemistry needed with them.
There is a wide variety of characters, from dukes to jarls, to high positions of power. Ones which you might see Ordulf interact with. But Ordulf doesn’t spend too much time with them, which he should since this novel keeps an element of historical fiction in it as well. The emphasis on the accuracy of swords, the combat, may have overpowered some powerful scenes in the book that could use for more story development and character development. Of course, this is a crusade. This is the early Middle Ages. You’d expect constant fighting, but the reason most men even went on these military adventures was to gain glory, loot, and honour. Or even worse.
I like the fact that this is set in Medieval Germany, as we rarely get much historical fiction or even alternate history set in this era. However, my criticism is minor, as this is a well-written story, with great prose. There are powerful moments in the story and there were one or two scenes that made me gasp. It was so unpredictable. I feel had the novel been longer, we could have seen more development of characters and such. That being said, it is a fantastic story that is the start of an epic journey. This novel felt like it was a set-up to a bigger epoch, a bigger destiny than Ordulf has been cast into. And I have to say, I love it. I want to read more about this. This is a splendid book, written by an author who, with this book, has made me a fan. I look forward to reading book 2! This is epic alternate history, and I would recommend this book wholeheartedly.
A Song of Steel is an alternate realm of history where Christianity did not spread into the lands of the Vikings through missionaries but through the old-fashioned way of Crusades. It is rip-roaring, epic and ambitious in scale. This great crusade Christian Europe embarks upon has repercussions set along the shores of the Scandinavian peninsula. This book has some of the most illustrative battle scenes you will witness in this novel. Meticulous attention on craftsmanship, armour and writing realistic descriptions of assaults and sieges proves that J.C Duncan has done his research right. This novel is a good example of how well researched material can make your world come alive.
We start with the character of Ordulf, a big lad from Minden. He’s a quirky, innovative character that can be an extremely talented blacksmith. Of course, his master isn’t the best of teachers. The chemistry between Master Blacksmith and Ordulf is rocky. As the call for the Crusade to destroy the fierce Vikings grows. Ordulf’s life catapults into a campaign of the war, far from the comforts that he enjoyed. He experiences what campaigning in an army is like. And it changes his view of life forever. Some criticisms I had of this novel, was that the battle scenes were far deeper and complex and sometimes that took over the expense of the story. Many characters that Ordulf interacts with are good interactions, but sometimes I feel I didn’t get enough time to develop that chemistry needed with them.
There is a wide variety of characters, from dukes to jarls, to high positions of power. Ones which you might see Ordulf interact with. But Ordulf doesn’t spend too much time with them, which he should since this novel keeps an element of historical fiction in it as well. The emphasis on the accuracy of swords, the combat, may have overpowered some powerful scenes in the book that could use for more story development and character development. Of course, this is a crusade. This is the early Middle Ages. You’d expect constant fighting, but the reason most men even went on these military adventures was to gain glory, loot, and honour. Or even worse.
I like the fact that this is set in Medieval Germany, as we rarely get much historical fiction or even alternate history set in this era. However, my criticism is minor, as this is a well-written story, with great prose. There are powerful moments in the story and there were one or two scenes that made me gasp. It was so unpredictable. I feel had the novel been longer, we could have seen more development of characters and such. That being said, it is a fantastic story that is the start of an epic journey. This novel felt like it was a set-up to a bigger epoch, a bigger destiny than Ordulf has been cast into. And I have to say, I love it. I want to read more about this. This is a splendid book, written by an author who, with this book, has made me a fan. I look forward to reading book 2! This is epic alternate history, and I would recommend this book wholeheartedly.
February 3, 2022
I enjoyed this read even though it’s not my usual fare. The issue for me was mainly one of pacing; the first half was a bit slow and somewhat heavy on the politics and metal working details. I’m sure it lends some credibility to the story, but it was less interesting for me. Things pick up in the second half though, and I would be quite happy to read the next book in the series.
A short summary:
Presently: A fishing mishap leads a father & daughter to norse artifacts (including a sword).
-The past: In this world, the Christian envoy to Harold Bluetooth failed and Christianity has never gained a foothold in the north. We follow Ragnvald who’s leading a raid and desecrating a church. Unfortunately, and unbeknownst to Ragnvald, a man related to a very powerful person is killed in the process; the nephew of the pope himself.
A few years later: We follow Ordulf, a talented (and somewhat arrogant) young man who’s risen to the position of smith’s journeyman & is responsible for the impressive sword of a young lordling (Count Adolf’s son).
Count Adolf of Schauenburg is preparing for a crusade and in need of many swords. Ordulf’s master agrees to make these & that Ordulf is to join the crusade as a smith. Things don’t go particularly well for Ordulf as he’s captured by the norsemen. Being a smith saves his life and enables him to have a more privileged existence than most slaves. Just like the metal they’re working, Ordulf will also go through some rough treatment as he learns to deal with his new life as a slave.
Moreover, the three Norse kingdoms must seek to unite as one if they’re to have any hope of fighting off the next wave of crusaders coming their way. This will be easier said than done as they need to agree on a king and there’s more than one person vying for the throne.
A short summary:
Presently: A fishing mishap leads a father & daughter to norse artifacts (including a sword).
-The past: In this world, the Christian envoy to Harold Bluetooth failed and Christianity has never gained a foothold in the north. We follow Ragnvald who’s leading a raid and desecrating a church. Unfortunately, and unbeknownst to Ragnvald, a man related to a very powerful person is killed in the process; the nephew of the pope himself.
A few years later: We follow Ordulf, a talented (and somewhat arrogant) young man who’s risen to the position of smith’s journeyman & is responsible for the impressive sword of a young lordling (Count Adolf’s son).
Count Adolf of Schauenburg is preparing for a crusade and in need of many swords. Ordulf’s master agrees to make these & that Ordulf is to join the crusade as a smith. Things don’t go particularly well for Ordulf as he’s captured by the norsemen. Being a smith saves his life and enables him to have a more privileged existence than most slaves. Just like the metal they’re working, Ordulf will also go through some rough treatment as he learns to deal with his new life as a slave.
Moreover, the three Norse kingdoms must seek to unite as one if they’re to have any hope of fighting off the next wave of crusaders coming their way. This will be easier said than done as they need to agree on a king and there’s more than one person vying for the throne.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2021
I really love how the author describes Ordulf and the smith Herman. They are fully formed, people, and were two of my favorite characters. Although I did like when Ordulf was an apprentice to Herman, I really enjoyed seeing the character grow as he went to Bremen. The author is really adept with description when he describes the sword that the main character forges, you can really see it in your mind, and the military scenes are well done.
The author has a genuine sense for fleshing out characters and making them feel like flesh and blood people, from Ordulf to Ragnvald to Sir Hans to Orbert.
I could get a sense of the setting in the 1100s, and the battle scenes were effective and realistic. I felt like Ordulf while being out of his element definitely grows because of it. I received a free copy of this book via The History Quill Book Club.
If you like Alternate history, or military history books, definitely read this book, because this is an author to keep an eye out for.
The author has a genuine sense for fleshing out characters and making them feel like flesh and blood people, from Ordulf to Ragnvald to Sir Hans to Orbert.
I could get a sense of the setting in the 1100s, and the battle scenes were effective and realistic. I felt like Ordulf while being out of his element definitely grows because of it. I received a free copy of this book via The History Quill Book Club.
If you like Alternate history, or military history books, definitely read this book, because this is an author to keep an eye out for.
March 6, 2021
Plot, pacing and characters were great. I fully appreciated that the author had clearly researched the intricacies of the detail to the story he was telling, but I found the combat and sword-forging scenes to almost be too descriptive and found myself having to re-read entire passages to ensure I was following it. While I appreciated the detail, it sometimes was a struggle to follow as a layperson.
That being said, an impressive debut novel and I'm looking forward to picking up the 2nd instalment when it's released.
That being said, an impressive debut novel and I'm looking forward to picking up the 2nd instalment when it's released.
September 24, 2023
Found this a difficult read and boring, I have read many books on Viking history both fact and fiction, so I was drawn to this book. I can see that it is well researched but so much on blade making that it became tedious. I will not be reading any more of this series, very disappointing.
November 5, 2025
Our protagonist, Ordulf, has a lot to learn. We first meet him as a journeyman sword-smith in a back-woods town, who happens to catch the eye of Count Adolf, who is putting together a crusade against the Danes. Adolf hires Ordulf to accompany his army, which seems like a great opportunity until the reality sets in. Apparently, he’s not the fabulous expert his pride has led him to believe, and his vanity leads him to make enough faux pas to seriously endanger his well-being, as it turns out:
Otto laughed sharply at the pinked pride in the young man. ‘What does he know? Ordulf, he has been fighting with swords since before you were born. He has fought hundreds of men, armed with every weapon you can imagine. If he says the thing, he is right. But if you go back into that room full of experienced men of war and explain that your sword is better than theirs, I am sure they will take you really, really seriously.’ Otto sneered the last few words like a housewife scolding a child.
That quote refers to Ordulf’s encounter with his new master who doesn’t fully appreciate his work. Yes, the crusade does not go well, at least from Ordulf’s point of view. He is captured and sent north as a slave to a town so foreign he doesn’t understand the language, or the customs. Once again, his pride almost gets him into trouble, but he finally understands that as a slave he is less valuable than even a farm animal. Will his talent rescue him from a hopeless plight? We’ll just have to wait until the next volume!
Otto laughed sharply at the pinked pride in the young man. ‘What does he know? Ordulf, he has been fighting with swords since before you were born. He has fought hundreds of men, armed with every weapon you can imagine. If he says the thing, he is right. But if you go back into that room full of experienced men of war and explain that your sword is better than theirs, I am sure they will take you really, really seriously.’ Otto sneered the last few words like a housewife scolding a child.
That quote refers to Ordulf’s encounter with his new master who doesn’t fully appreciate his work. Yes, the crusade does not go well, at least from Ordulf’s point of view. He is captured and sent north as a slave to a town so foreign he doesn’t understand the language, or the customs. Once again, his pride almost gets him into trouble, but he finally understands that as a slave he is less valuable than even a farm animal. Will his talent rescue him from a hopeless plight? We’ll just have to wait until the next volume!
December 16, 2025
I really found this book quite interesting. Yes its historical fiction. But still it depicts the Norse way and the way they acted at the time before they switched from Paganism to Christianism. Ordult a young German blacksmith or should I say swordsmith. Has been making his way from Apprentice to Journeyman when he is picked to join the crusade to liberate the Scandinavian Kingdoms from Paganism. What follows is a good description of what life in the camps and the villages of both the Germans and the Swedes. I will definitely continue reading the series and find out what happens to our friend.
May 29, 2025
Absolutely Riveting
I almost gave up after the first few pages. Just not at all what I was expecting. I’m far more than glad that I persevered. Brilliant writing, wonderful exploration of the diametrically opposed belief structures of the followers of the nailed god and the pagan vikings. I’m now a big fan of the writings of JC Duncan.
I usually don’t read much of the end of book blurb. Again I’m so delighted I did. I got a long list of authors to check out and pointers to a couple of areas of further research for me.
I almost gave up after the first few pages. Just not at all what I was expecting. I’m far more than glad that I persevered. Brilliant writing, wonderful exploration of the diametrically opposed belief structures of the followers of the nailed god and the pagan vikings. I’m now a big fan of the writings of JC Duncan.
I usually don’t read much of the end of book blurb. Again I’m so delighted I did. I got a long list of authors to check out and pointers to a couple of areas of further research for me.
November 4, 2023
A Song Of Steel.
Fascinating and enthralling. I started to read this book thinking tha my attention would run out by page 20 but suddenly here I am at the end of a damn good read. Excellent story and for some strange reason I appear to love that period of history whether it’s England or the continent of Europe. Above all, we all have Scandinavian blood in us, I was amazed to find that my DNA has 25% of it, hence the love of this story. Highly Recommended.
Fascinating and enthralling. I started to read this book thinking tha my attention would run out by page 20 but suddenly here I am at the end of a damn good read. Excellent story and for some strange reason I appear to love that period of history whether it’s England or the continent of Europe. Above all, we all have Scandinavian blood in us, I was amazed to find that my DNA has 25% of it, hence the love of this story. Highly Recommended.
April 27, 2025
Entertaing
The author says at the end of the book that he hopes the reader finds his tale entertaining, well be more than achieved that goal with this book. At the beginning there seems lots of disparate stories, but like the sword in the tale he sends them all together, expertly in my opinion
The author says at the end of the book that he hopes the reader finds his tale entertaining, well be more than achieved that goal with this book. At the beginning there seems lots of disparate stories, but like the sword in the tale he sends them all together, expertly in my opinion
July 30, 2022
Well forged tale
Fascinating story - great page turner, Well rounded characterisation of the pprotaganists. Looking forward to book 2 once it downloads.
Fascinating story - great page turner, Well rounded characterisation of the pprotaganists. Looking forward to book 2 once it downloads.
January 31, 2024
Good read, loved the detail. The only drawback is it is alternate history.
Character development is good. I will read the second one in the series which is high recommendation.
Character development is good. I will read the second one in the series which is high recommendation.
May 18, 2024
Excellent Viking alternative history.
Excellent characters and an exciting story with an authentic feel. The sword smithing scenes are as interesting as the battles.
Excellent characters and an exciting story with an authentic feel. The sword smithing scenes are as interesting as the battles.
September 17, 2024
Great hisfict
If you read Bernard Cornwall books you will love this. Great characters and story. Following three main characters, a good read.
If you read Bernard Cornwall books you will love this. Great characters and story. Following three main characters, a good read.
May 28, 2025
Wow
In the running for one of the worst books ever and I have read a ton of books. Reads like a 5th grade essay. I do not recommend it.
In the running for one of the worst books ever and I have read a ton of books. Reads like a 5th grade essay. I do not recommend it.
June 3, 2025
- Incredible book. The characters, battle scenes, and politics are top notch.
August 3, 2025
Good Read
Have enjoyed the journey this far.. looking forward to the next one..
Felt like I was living in a part of the story.
Have enjoyed the journey this far.. looking forward to the next one..
Felt like I was living in a part of the story.
April 6, 2021
Alternate history - 1116 AD. Three hundred years of cruel Viking raids have finally united Christian Europe against the pagan Northlands. A great crusade has been called to pacify the wild Norse kingdoms. The banner of the cross has been raised against the north, and all the power and fury of the west rides under it.
A song of Steel is the first book in J. C Duncan's five book series, The Light of The North Saga. The story is set in an alternate history of the end of the Viking age and based around a mystical sword ‘The Light of The North’, and the legendary warrior who wielded it. This is hands down one of the best debuts I've read in a long time and easily the best book I've read this year so far. The fact it's still another four books left in the series makes me so happy!
The story starts in modern times when a fisherman and his daughter find a sword in a lake on a casual father-daughter fishing trip. I absolutely loved how this book started. It's definitely unique and something I've never come across. It then goes back to 1100s and we follow two main characters. The first is Ordulf, a Christian whose an arrogant yet talented swordsmith whose built like a bull. The second Is Jarl Ragnvald, a fierce and intelligent warrior who still lives the old way and worships the norse gods. There are other characters which we get to me meet, some are fictional whilst others are real historical figures. I was instantly hooked and couldn't wait to see where their journeys took them. The story flips back and forth between the two, so you get to see two completely different cultures, religions, fighting styles and so much more. I found myself learning so much, my favourite has to be the swords and amour. Duncan clearly knows his stuff about swords as we get to see how each culture makes their swords and the different techniques they use. It really is interesting!
As we follow the war we get treated to some outstanding fight scenes of all kinds, 1v1s, shield walls, knights smashing through lines on war horses and so much more. I love a book that has plenty of action and A Song of Steel did not disappoint. Duncan writes some really entertaining yet gruesome battles that keeps the reader entertained and glued to the book. There was a particular fight where a warrior was stabbed between the butt cheeks. Yup, it was that gruesome! If that doesn't convince you how gruesome the fighting is, then I'm not sure what will.
I absolutely demolished this book, especially the second half. It's only 288 pages according to amazon and I read over 50% in two days which is pretty fast for me. Every time I put the book down I was constantly thinking about the story and millions of questions would run through my mind so I would instantly pick it back up to find out what happens next. This is what every book-worm wants!
J. C. Duncan is a talented author and A Song of Steel is truly an outstanding début. It's an amazing feeling when you're craving a certain book and the perfect one comes along and just blows you away. If you like Historical Fiction/Fantasy books that have awesome characters and cinematic battles then trust me, give this a shot.
Thanks to Netgalley and J. C. Duncan for providing me with a copy to read and review.
A song of Steel is the first book in J. C Duncan's five book series, The Light of The North Saga. The story is set in an alternate history of the end of the Viking age and based around a mystical sword ‘The Light of The North’, and the legendary warrior who wielded it. This is hands down one of the best debuts I've read in a long time and easily the best book I've read this year so far. The fact it's still another four books left in the series makes me so happy!
The story starts in modern times when a fisherman and his daughter find a sword in a lake on a casual father-daughter fishing trip. I absolutely loved how this book started. It's definitely unique and something I've never come across. It then goes back to 1100s and we follow two main characters. The first is Ordulf, a Christian whose an arrogant yet talented swordsmith whose built like a bull. The second Is Jarl Ragnvald, a fierce and intelligent warrior who still lives the old way and worships the norse gods. There are other characters which we get to me meet, some are fictional whilst others are real historical figures. I was instantly hooked and couldn't wait to see where their journeys took them. The story flips back and forth between the two, so you get to see two completely different cultures, religions, fighting styles and so much more. I found myself learning so much, my favourite has to be the swords and amour. Duncan clearly knows his stuff about swords as we get to see how each culture makes their swords and the different techniques they use. It really is interesting!
As we follow the war we get treated to some outstanding fight scenes of all kinds, 1v1s, shield walls, knights smashing through lines on war horses and so much more. I love a book that has plenty of action and A Song of Steel did not disappoint. Duncan writes some really entertaining yet gruesome battles that keeps the reader entertained and glued to the book. There was a particular fight where a warrior was stabbed between the butt cheeks. Yup, it was that gruesome! If that doesn't convince you how gruesome the fighting is, then I'm not sure what will.
I absolutely demolished this book, especially the second half. It's only 288 pages according to amazon and I read over 50% in two days which is pretty fast for me. Every time I put the book down I was constantly thinking about the story and millions of questions would run through my mind so I would instantly pick it back up to find out what happens next. This is what every book-worm wants!
J. C. Duncan is a talented author and A Song of Steel is truly an outstanding début. It's an amazing feeling when you're craving a certain book and the perfect one comes along and just blows you away. If you like Historical Fiction/Fantasy books that have awesome characters and cinematic battles then trust me, give this a shot.
Thanks to Netgalley and J. C. Duncan for providing me with a copy to read and review.
April 10, 2021
***Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing a copy of the book for my fair and honest review!***
You can see more of my reviews here!
I loved this book. It pulled me in from the very start with the mystery surrounding the sword and kept me hooked throughout the story with the great characterization and beautifully written battle sequences. This author definitely has a way with words that constantly left me wanting to read just one more page.
The characters in this book were fantastic. They felt like real people, and it was easy to understand their motivations and emotions because the author did a great job of making me feel like I know these people. The two main protagonists, Ordulf and Ragnvald, were particularly well-crafted. I enjoyed jumping between the two because it gave the perspectives of both sides of the war and provided a window into the unique strengths and weaknesses of each culture. Their stories also complemented each other well, with one character being older and more experienced and the other young and naive. However, I appreciated that they were both on similar journeys that required shedding off some of the ways of their pasts to embrace a new future and ensure their survival.
The prose throughout the story was exquisitely detailed and beautifully written. The battle sequences were especially well-done. They made me feel like I was going into battle with the characters and had just the perfect amount of gore to be realistic without overdoing it. I was also pleasantly surprised with how well the writing pulled me into parts of the story I would have otherwise found boring. A great deal of time in this novel was spent on describing the forging of weapons. This is something I've never been very interested in before, but this author's prose was spell-binding enough to keep me hooked throughout those parts of the book. I feel as though I came away from the story with a better understanding of metallurgy and had fun learning about it, which is something I never expected going into this book.
I also greatly enjoyed the information about Norse culture displayed throughout this book. I didn't know much about it prior to reading the story, and I am now interested to learn more. The author weaved the information skillfully throughout the narrative, and I never felt like I was being taught anything about history. However, I learned a lot from this book, and it has whetted my appetite to learn more!
If you enjoy historical fiction or fantasy books, this might just be the book for you. The writing is wonderful, and the characters are realistic and fun to read. The battle sequences are outstanding, and I loved learning about Norse culture and metallurgy because the information is presented in engaging bits throughout the story. Therefore, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
You can see more of my reviews here!
I loved this book. It pulled me in from the very start with the mystery surrounding the sword and kept me hooked throughout the story with the great characterization and beautifully written battle sequences. This author definitely has a way with words that constantly left me wanting to read just one more page.
The characters in this book were fantastic. They felt like real people, and it was easy to understand their motivations and emotions because the author did a great job of making me feel like I know these people. The two main protagonists, Ordulf and Ragnvald, were particularly well-crafted. I enjoyed jumping between the two because it gave the perspectives of both sides of the war and provided a window into the unique strengths and weaknesses of each culture. Their stories also complemented each other well, with one character being older and more experienced and the other young and naive. However, I appreciated that they were both on similar journeys that required shedding off some of the ways of their pasts to embrace a new future and ensure their survival.
The prose throughout the story was exquisitely detailed and beautifully written. The battle sequences were especially well-done. They made me feel like I was going into battle with the characters and had just the perfect amount of gore to be realistic without overdoing it. I was also pleasantly surprised with how well the writing pulled me into parts of the story I would have otherwise found boring. A great deal of time in this novel was spent on describing the forging of weapons. This is something I've never been very interested in before, but this author's prose was spell-binding enough to keep me hooked throughout those parts of the book. I feel as though I came away from the story with a better understanding of metallurgy and had fun learning about it, which is something I never expected going into this book.
I also greatly enjoyed the information about Norse culture displayed throughout this book. I didn't know much about it prior to reading the story, and I am now interested to learn more. The author weaved the information skillfully throughout the narrative, and I never felt like I was being taught anything about history. However, I learned a lot from this book, and it has whetted my appetite to learn more!
If you enjoy historical fiction or fantasy books, this might just be the book for you. The writing is wonderful, and the characters are realistic and fun to read. The battle sequences are outstanding, and I loved learning about Norse culture and metallurgy because the information is presented in engaging bits throughout the story. Therefore, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
July 18, 2024
Avery interesting novel.
The author has put a lot of work into his writings of how things worked for. The Norse,Christians in Viking times.whilst the storylines were fictional with a lot of truth running with it even sword styles,forging metals strengths of them and all things involved in blacksmithing.The book had great battles scenes illustrations and gore.😛would recommend the read and would buy the next installment.😎
The author has put a lot of work into his writings of how things worked for. The Norse,Christians in Viking times.whilst the storylines were fictional with a lot of truth running with it even sword styles,forging metals strengths of them and all things involved in blacksmithing.The book had great battles scenes illustrations and gore.😛would recommend the read and would buy the next installment.😎
October 4, 2021
Not sure I've read much alternate history before, though I loved the concept of this book. What if the Vikings hadn't converted to Christianity? Would there have been crusades from the Christian west into Scandinavia? Entirely possible.
This then, is the base from which we begin our journey. We follow the life of a young blacksmith, Ordulf, who is drafted into the small army of blacksmith's that follow the Christian army on crusade. He is a likeable character, has his flaws, and his story was one that was enjoyable to follow.
I learnt far more than I had ever intended to about the forging of swords in the first third of the story (though I get the sword itself is integral to the plot) There is a passage where Ordulf is repairing a blade at his forge, and a whole paragraph of sentences which start with 'The blade' which grated a bit as I was reading. (Worth noting the book is a debut, these things are much easier to pick up as a reader than a writer) Once Ordulf is off on campaign though I felt his story really took off, and found him and the supporting cast around him more interesting as the plot developed and the army moved north.
We also get to see a POV from the Viking side. This to be honest I felt didn't add much value to the overall story, and I found some of the dialogue between the Northmen didn't quite have an authentic feel - hard to explain, but possibly because I never at any point felt much investment into their plotline.
Overall though the book is a solid read, there is plenty of action, all of which is well written, and at the end of the book we are set up nicely for what is to follow. (It also has a stunningly good cover, which wins extra points from this reader!)
This then, is the base from which we begin our journey. We follow the life of a young blacksmith, Ordulf, who is drafted into the small army of blacksmith's that follow the Christian army on crusade. He is a likeable character, has his flaws, and his story was one that was enjoyable to follow.
I learnt far more than I had ever intended to about the forging of swords in the first third of the story (though I get the sword itself is integral to the plot) There is a passage where Ordulf is repairing a blade at his forge, and a whole paragraph of sentences which start with 'The blade' which grated a bit as I was reading. (Worth noting the book is a debut, these things are much easier to pick up as a reader than a writer) Once Ordulf is off on campaign though I felt his story really took off, and found him and the supporting cast around him more interesting as the plot developed and the army moved north.
We also get to see a POV from the Viking side. This to be honest I felt didn't add much value to the overall story, and I found some of the dialogue between the Northmen didn't quite have an authentic feel - hard to explain, but possibly because I never at any point felt much investment into their plotline.
Overall though the book is a solid read, there is plenty of action, all of which is well written, and at the end of the book we are set up nicely for what is to follow. (It also has a stunningly good cover, which wins extra points from this reader!)
May 13, 2021
I don‘t know if I started this book at the wrong time in my life or if I didn‘t give it enough of a chance (I DNF‘ed at 60% or so), but unfortunately this book really wasn‘t made for me. Although, there were a lot of things I liked about it, I just couldn’t bring myself to finish it.
First things first, there’s a reason why I wanted to read this book. The synopsis seemed so cool and really made me want to read A Song of Steel as soon as possible. I was so disappointed when I ended up disliking it.
It started off well. The beginning in 2011 was great and really got me into it. The first chapters where we got to know the MC were intriguing and that’s why I kept on reading.
Why didn’t I like the book? Well, even though the first chapters were great, the book didn’t really move. We got to know the MC, some unclear details about a war we know close to nothing about and that was it. I felt like the story was very static and I wanted it to go faster. So despite my earlier interest in this book, it disappeared soon after the few first chapters.
Maybe I’ll pick up this book again in a couple of months, maybe not but anyways, it has a lot of potential.
I’d like to thank NetGalley for providing me this ARC.
First things first, there’s a reason why I wanted to read this book. The synopsis seemed so cool and really made me want to read A Song of Steel as soon as possible. I was so disappointed when I ended up disliking it.
It started off well. The beginning in 2011 was great and really got me into it. The first chapters where we got to know the MC were intriguing and that’s why I kept on reading.
Why didn’t I like the book? Well, even though the first chapters were great, the book didn’t really move. We got to know the MC, some unclear details about a war we know close to nothing about and that was it. I felt like the story was very static and I wanted it to go faster. So despite my earlier interest in this book, it disappeared soon after the few first chapters.
Maybe I’ll pick up this book again in a couple of months, maybe not but anyways, it has a lot of potential.
I’d like to thank NetGalley for providing me this ARC.
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