What do you think?
Rate this book
The Folkungs
Based on 14th Century Scandinavian actual events, The Folkungs --Sweden's royal family--is a generational saga interwoven with jealousy, conspiracy, rivalry, treason, regicide, exorcism, paganism, torture, witchcraft, shamanism, Falconry, folklore, power struggles, and deeply touching love stories.
It begins at Nykoping Castle, Sweden, 1291. King Magnus is dead and his three young sons--Birger (eleven), Erik (nine), and Valdemar (eight)--await the arrival of the appointed Regent of Sweden, a powerful noble and celebrated warrior, who will teach them the arts of governing, knighthood and skills of war until the young king, Birger, comes of age. Under his tutelage, Erik, the middle child, will show himself to be the most intelligent and skilful of the three; Valdemar, the youngest, will look on in admiration, while the fledgling King, will bridle with jealousy.
Arriving with the Regent is his nine-year-old daughter, Kristina, who stares aghast at the royal fortress rising before her like a grim symbol of doom. Her fear is well here wastes away a King usurped and imprisoned by his brother, where the future holds even darker treachery.
Kristina, all innocence, is entering a world where personal desires are sacrificed to political necessity. Marriage is about forging international alliances so Birger, King of Sweden, will marry Princess Marta of Denmark; the King of Denmark will marry Princess Ingeborg of Sweden while Dukes Valdemar and Erik will marry a Norwegian princess or a princess from one of the German principalities. Kristina cannot but wonder what her own future will hold.
As the young princes mature, King Birger proves himself to be increasingly inept and manipulated by the self-seeking Regent. He accuses his innocent brothers of treachery and wages war against them as punishment, wreaking unnecessary bloodshed on the land. For Erik this is intolerable. Can Sweden be left prey to his brother's weak rule? Alliances are formed across the borders as the royals start taking sides.
Along with Scandinavia's folklore, magic and myths, the author's words are brought to life across the snowy landscapes, light summer nights, and medieval castles of Scandinavia.
It begins at Nykoping Castle, Sweden, 1291. King Magnus is dead and his three young sons--Birger (eleven), Erik (nine), and Valdemar (eight)--await the arrival of the appointed Regent of Sweden, a powerful noble and celebrated warrior, who will teach them the arts of governing, knighthood and skills of war until the young king, Birger, comes of age. Under his tutelage, Erik, the middle child, will show himself to be the most intelligent and skilful of the three; Valdemar, the youngest, will look on in admiration, while the fledgling King, will bridle with jealousy.
Arriving with the Regent is his nine-year-old daughter, Kristina, who stares aghast at the royal fortress rising before her like a grim symbol of doom. Her fear is well here wastes away a King usurped and imprisoned by his brother, where the future holds even darker treachery.
Kristina, all innocence, is entering a world where personal desires are sacrificed to political necessity. Marriage is about forging international alliances so Birger, King of Sweden, will marry Princess Marta of Denmark; the King of Denmark will marry Princess Ingeborg of Sweden while Dukes Valdemar and Erik will marry a Norwegian princess or a princess from one of the German principalities. Kristina cannot but wonder what her own future will hold.
As the young princes mature, King Birger proves himself to be increasingly inept and manipulated by the self-seeking Regent. He accuses his innocent brothers of treachery and wages war against them as punishment, wreaking unnecessary bloodshed on the land. For Erik this is intolerable. Can Sweden be left prey to his brother's weak rule? Alliances are formed across the borders as the royals start taking sides.
Along with Scandinavia's folklore, magic and myths, the author's words are brought to life across the snowy landscapes, light summer nights, and medieval castles of Scandinavia.
660 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2021
61 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 15, 2022
5 Memorable Stars ✨
This book will definitely be one of my top reads of the year! I can not believe that it’s not being talked about and it’s totally under the radar.
Historical Fiction at its finest!
Folkungs is a gripping story of Swedens medieval monarchy in the 14th century. It was an addicting saga that hooks you from the very start. Full of family and kingdom feuds, ambition, fights for power, political intrigue, religion, war, love, loss, struggles and conspiracy. It’s got something in it for every type of reader. I don’t think I have ever read a book that completely held my attention quite like this. It’s 780 pages long and I was 100 percent engaged for every single page. There was never a dull moment and it’s quick pace makes it that much more enjoyable.
I learned so much about the history of Scandinavia that I absolutely knew nothing about and if I’m honest didn’t care to know, but the authors writing was so engaging, I did not want to put it down. The characters were fantastic and their development over the course of the book just made you feel like you knew these people. I absolutely adored Christina she was my favorite and I am so sad that it’s over. I will definitely not forget this one, it has a way by the end - of getting inside your bones. I am desperate for a sequel!!
Content Notes :
This is an Adult historical fiction that is interwoven with jealousy, conspiracy, rivalry, treason, regicide, exorcism, paganism, torture, witchcraft, shamanism, Falconry, folklore, power struggles, and deeply touching love stories. Some of the scenes were heavy to read and hits you in the feels but I was so impressed with Javits writing and how she handles certain situations (rape, death, sex, exorcism), she lets you know what happens without being over the top, too graphic or extreme. To me that’s top notch.
If you love historical fiction, drama, political intrigue and amazing characters I can’t recommend this book enough.
This book will definitely be one of my top reads of the year! I can not believe that it’s not being talked about and it’s totally under the radar.
Historical Fiction at its finest!
Folkungs is a gripping story of Swedens medieval monarchy in the 14th century. It was an addicting saga that hooks you from the very start. Full of family and kingdom feuds, ambition, fights for power, political intrigue, religion, war, love, loss, struggles and conspiracy. It’s got something in it for every type of reader. I don’t think I have ever read a book that completely held my attention quite like this. It’s 780 pages long and I was 100 percent engaged for every single page. There was never a dull moment and it’s quick pace makes it that much more enjoyable.
I learned so much about the history of Scandinavia that I absolutely knew nothing about and if I’m honest didn’t care to know, but the authors writing was so engaging, I did not want to put it down. The characters were fantastic and their development over the course of the book just made you feel like you knew these people. I absolutely adored Christina she was my favorite and I am so sad that it’s over. I will definitely not forget this one, it has a way by the end - of getting inside your bones. I am desperate for a sequel!!
Content Notes :
This is an Adult historical fiction that is interwoven with jealousy, conspiracy, rivalry, treason, regicide, exorcism, paganism, torture, witchcraft, shamanism, Falconry, folklore, power struggles, and deeply touching love stories. Some of the scenes were heavy to read and hits you in the feels but I was so impressed with Javits writing and how she handles certain situations (rape, death, sex, exorcism), she lets you know what happens without being over the top, too graphic or extreme. To me that’s top notch.
If you love historical fiction, drama, political intrigue and amazing characters I can’t recommend this book enough.
October 6, 2023
When I think of Scandinavian countries, besides cold weather, I think of peace, harmony, lands of tranquility. THE FOLKUNGS laid those thoughts to rest. Struggle, struggle, struggle!
I have to wonder why no one has picked this sensational saga up for a series. I’m talking MAX level. This story has everything—everything and its opposite. There is love, there is hate. There is fealty, there is betrayal. Peace and war. Sex and celibacy. Christianity, paganism. Beautiful women and hot dukes. And man, does it have some really good bad guys II can just imagine the pageantry of the castles, the courts and the costumes.
And imagine I did. The author did a spectacular job of bringing the cast of characters (back to) life. While my eyes were reading, my mind wasn’t just comprehending—it was envisioning, picturing, seeing the people and places as if I were dreaming. (Or chillin’ in front of a big screen television!)
I have read a lot of historical fiction wrapped around WWII. Many tales are extraordinary, that would never have been brought to light otherwise. I still had the basics, the foundation of that terrible time. I went into THE FOLKUNGS cold. Swedish history is not a category I would choose if a guest of “Jeopardy!” I had no idea what to expect. And I, who always wants to know the synopses before starting a book or movie, actually enjoyed that freedom.
I invested immediately. This kind of story is my jam. The characters at the core are first introduced growing up as children in the Royal Court. A strong (but not unbreakable) bond ties the five together as Kristina is we omen into the royal household. I couldn’t help but care for them, and was especially drawn to the kindness of Kristina and the overall excellence that is Erik. Mats, Alf, the wise old woman are supporting characters I guarantee you will love, too. They are portrayed so well, I cheered for them and mourned with them. Whatever they were going through, I was right there with them.
And they go through a lot.
It is the strength of the characters that drives the story and why I did not want it to end. I was not at all prepared for the ending, though.
Margaretha Espersson Javits is a master storyteller. I believe, unfortunately, this is her only work. The reason I withheld the half-star is because I had a difficult time keeping track of who was ruling what country, who wanted to rule what country, and who was conspiring against who.
So please, gods of film production, someone, anyone, put this on the screen. I see a massive hit, multitudinous awards, millions of viewers tied to their televisions, wondering how in the heck they can possibly wait a week for the next episode.
(I volunteer to help with casting.)
I have to wonder why no one has picked this sensational saga up for a series. I’m talking MAX level. This story has everything—everything and its opposite. There is love, there is hate. There is fealty, there is betrayal. Peace and war. Sex and celibacy. Christianity, paganism. Beautiful women and hot dukes. And man, does it have some really good bad guys II can just imagine the pageantry of the castles, the courts and the costumes.
And imagine I did. The author did a spectacular job of bringing the cast of characters (back to) life. While my eyes were reading, my mind wasn’t just comprehending—it was envisioning, picturing, seeing the people and places as if I were dreaming. (Or chillin’ in front of a big screen television!)
I have read a lot of historical fiction wrapped around WWII. Many tales are extraordinary, that would never have been brought to light otherwise. I still had the basics, the foundation of that terrible time. I went into THE FOLKUNGS cold. Swedish history is not a category I would choose if a guest of “Jeopardy!” I had no idea what to expect. And I, who always wants to know the synopses before starting a book or movie, actually enjoyed that freedom.
I invested immediately. This kind of story is my jam. The characters at the core are first introduced growing up as children in the Royal Court. A strong (but not unbreakable) bond ties the five together as Kristina is we omen into the royal household. I couldn’t help but care for them, and was especially drawn to the kindness of Kristina and the overall excellence that is Erik. Mats, Alf, the wise old woman are supporting characters I guarantee you will love, too. They are portrayed so well, I cheered for them and mourned with them. Whatever they were going through, I was right there with them.
And they go through a lot.
It is the strength of the characters that drives the story and why I did not want it to end. I was not at all prepared for the ending, though.
Margaretha Espersson Javits is a master storyteller. I believe, unfortunately, this is her only work. The reason I withheld the half-star is because I had a difficult time keeping track of who was ruling what country, who wanted to rule what country, and who was conspiring against who.
So please, gods of film production, someone, anyone, put this on the screen. I see a massive hit, multitudinous awards, millions of viewers tied to their televisions, wondering how in the heck they can possibly wait a week for the next episode.
(I volunteer to help with casting.)
January 10, 2022
I really enjoyed this book for its somewhat unusual setting (Late Middle Ages rather than Viking Age Scandinavia). It’s quite successful at making you care about all the characters at the beginning of the book, then squirm at how politics and impossible situations set them all against each other. I also enjoyed the bits of folklore woven in, though I was a bit disappointed that the hints dropped about Mats didn’t seem to go much of anywhere. There were some copy editing issues, mostly the names of characters (Erik was occasionally Eric, Christoffer Christopher, Marta Martha), but they didn’t take away from my enjoying the read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2023
A fine reenactment of medieval history
Swedish born Florida author Margaretha Esperson Javits earned her degree in Psychology and Higher Education from Columbia University, served as Assistant Dean in the University’s School of General Studies, followed by working in an n advertising agency. She returns to her Scandinavian roots with this book, THE FOLKUNGS, a volume of well researched historical fiction that not only informs about Swedish monarchy and all Scandinavian countries’ histories, but also reads like a dramatic novel. The author’s ability to make the characters of her story both visual and realistic propels this fascinating journey through 14th Century Scandinavia. The settings are painted well and the action, moving from realistic family interactions through ascendancy in the monarchy, is delivered with a keen eye for intrigue, battles, political shenanigans, and the effects of medieval life on the excellent characters. For those who love medieval historical fiction, this book will definitely satisfy. Well done!
Swedish born Florida author Margaretha Esperson Javits earned her degree in Psychology and Higher Education from Columbia University, served as Assistant Dean in the University’s School of General Studies, followed by working in an n advertising agency. She returns to her Scandinavian roots with this book, THE FOLKUNGS, a volume of well researched historical fiction that not only informs about Swedish monarchy and all Scandinavian countries’ histories, but also reads like a dramatic novel. The author’s ability to make the characters of her story both visual and realistic propels this fascinating journey through 14th Century Scandinavia. The settings are painted well and the action, moving from realistic family interactions through ascendancy in the monarchy, is delivered with a keen eye for intrigue, battles, political shenanigans, and the effects of medieval life on the excellent characters. For those who love medieval historical fiction, this book will definitely satisfy. Well done!
April 24, 2023
A Gripping Tale of Power, Betrayal, and Love in Medieval Scandinavia...
“The Folkungs” is a gripping saga of royalty, treachery, and love in medieval Scandinavia. It’s an epic historical novel that brings to life the captivating story of Sweden's royal family. Set in the 14th century, this book weaves together elements of politics, warfare, and folklore with deeply touching love stories. With an engaging plot and vivid descriptions of the snowy landscapes and medieval castles of Scandinavia, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in the fascinating history of the region. Highly recommended.
“The Folkungs” is a gripping saga of royalty, treachery, and love in medieval Scandinavia. It’s an epic historical novel that brings to life the captivating story of Sweden's royal family. Set in the 14th century, this book weaves together elements of politics, warfare, and folklore with deeply touching love stories. With an engaging plot and vivid descriptions of the snowy landscapes and medieval castles of Scandinavia, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in the fascinating history of the region. Highly recommended.
June 22, 2024
Royal aftermath
It’s the end of the 13th century. The brothers in this Swedish royal family are classic brotherly competition, power and control siblings. The story played like a movie in my head. I enjoy stories of historical fiction of love and treachery, castles, and royal courts. The queen has her challenges and responsibilities, as any mom does, with the added responsibility of betrothing her sons to the proper princess of other royal families to ensure peace and diplomatic relationships. If you enjoy royal family saga and treachery, then this book is for you.
It’s the end of the 13th century. The brothers in this Swedish royal family are classic brotherly competition, power and control siblings. The story played like a movie in my head. I enjoy stories of historical fiction of love and treachery, castles, and royal courts. The queen has her challenges and responsibilities, as any mom does, with the added responsibility of betrothing her sons to the proper princess of other royal families to ensure peace and diplomatic relationships. If you enjoy royal family saga and treachery, then this book is for you.
July 31, 2022
Excellent
Wonderful book about Scandinavia in the Middle ages. Filled with political intrigue and historical events. Thorough character development. Immersive escape that lends perspective to modern machinations. Definitely a recommended read.
Wonderful book about Scandinavia in the Middle ages. Filled with political intrigue and historical events. Thorough character development. Immersive escape that lends perspective to modern machinations. Definitely a recommended read.
March 6, 2022
Excellent historical fiction.
Vivid characters. This book Is long and kept me engaged throughout.
I am anxious to read more from this author.
Vivid characters. This book Is long and kept me engaged throughout.
I am anxious to read more from this author.
September 30, 2023
Game of Thrones but based in reality. Not a ton of action but a heck of a chess game played by all parties.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews