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The Light of the North #2
The Fire of the Fallen
The cruel blade of fate takes the bravest hearts first. New heroes will be forged in the fire of the fallen.
The second volume In J. C. Duncan's breakout Norse saga series
Alternate history - 1117 AD. The first Crusade has torn its way through Denmark, bringing fire and the sword to all who refuse to submit to the soldiers of Christendom. The lords of the west stand astride the ruins of Jutland and turn their eyes eastward across the cold sea, to the homeland of the Aesir themselves.
Ordulf faces the consequences of capture by a Norse warband. Taken to their capital in slavery, he now serves the enemies of the cross, making the very weapons they carry against his people. He faces a terrible choice; to accept his fate, or be destroyed by it.
Reeling from the loss of three kings and a kingdom, the Norse gather in the home of their gods to choose a new ruler and prepare to meet the coming storm. The great host of the crusade will march again, and the people of the North will meet them with steel and shields and the death cries of their heroes.
The second volume In J. C. Duncan's breakout Norse saga series
Alternate history - 1117 AD. The first Crusade has torn its way through Denmark, bringing fire and the sword to all who refuse to submit to the soldiers of Christendom. The lords of the west stand astride the ruins of Jutland and turn their eyes eastward across the cold sea, to the homeland of the Aesir themselves.
Ordulf faces the consequences of capture by a Norse warband. Taken to their capital in slavery, he now serves the enemies of the cross, making the very weapons they carry against his people. He faces a terrible choice; to accept his fate, or be destroyed by it.
Reeling from the loss of three kings and a kingdom, the Norse gather in the home of their gods to choose a new ruler and prepare to meet the coming storm. The great host of the crusade will march again, and the people of the North will meet them with steel and shields and the death cries of their heroes.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
466 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2021
155 people are currently reading
70 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 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 26, 2023
Gripping and enthralling!
This was an exceptional story of power, privilege, bravery, honour and rank stupidity. An alternate history of Scandinavia, it's conversion to Christianity and the eclipsing of the Norse gods. In this version of events the European Christian elite had launched a religious crusade against the Vikings, backed by the Catholic Church. A superior fighting force of armoured knights, backed by wealthy kings and the cream of Europe 's aristocracy, complete with state of the art siege engines and professional soldiers invade the Viking homeland. Can brave and honourable warriors combat and overcome against such overwhelming odds? I will have to read Book 3 to find out but, what a captivating story this is.
This was an exceptional story of power, privilege, bravery, honour and rank stupidity. An alternate history of Scandinavia, it's conversion to Christianity and the eclipsing of the Norse gods. In this version of events the European Christian elite had launched a religious crusade against the Vikings, backed by the Catholic Church. A superior fighting force of armoured knights, backed by wealthy kings and the cream of Europe 's aristocracy, complete with state of the art siege engines and professional soldiers invade the Viking homeland. Can brave and honourable warriors combat and overcome against such overwhelming odds? I will have to read Book 3 to find out but, what a captivating story this is.
January 27, 2022
See more of my reviews and other bookish content here!
If you enjoy reading about the Vikings, this is definitely a series you don't want to miss. The author does a fantastic job of bringing their culture to life through multiple points of view. Ordulf's story continued here with him enslaved by Jarl Ragnvald, which provided a unique window into life within the lowest rungs of the Viking society. His journey in this book was one of accepting his circumstances and his place within them without losing his own sense of self. It was compelling to watch his struggle finding the balance of belonging to his new group versus doing what was in his own self-interest. He made some choices that shocked me, and I couldn't help feeling a bit heartbroken for him when things didn't go the way he expected. Ragnvald's POV allowed for the continued exploration of Viking politics and what it means to be an honorable Viking warrior. The Christian viewpoints in this book were just as interesting, though. The political maneuvering between the church, French, and Holy Roman Empire in this book was absolutely brilliant to read, and I loved the addition of Bishop Reinhard. He is probably my favorite character in this series now because of his ruthless political acumen and uncanny ability to read and manipulate others to get what he wants. The fights in the book were brutal, and the author made me squirm in my seat with his vivid descriptions of the violence. I also really enjoyed reading all the battle strategies from both sides of the fighting. It made me feel like I was in the planning room before the battle and, then later, in the midst of the fighting. Despite all the great things about the book, the thing I found most interesting was the incorporation of true historical figures and seeing how they might have reacted if history had taken a different turn. While reading, the book felt well-researched and authentic, and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next. Therefore, it easily gets 4 out of 5 stars from me.
If you enjoy reading about the Vikings, this is definitely a series you don't want to miss. The author does a fantastic job of bringing their culture to life through multiple points of view. Ordulf's story continued here with him enslaved by Jarl Ragnvald, which provided a unique window into life within the lowest rungs of the Viking society. His journey in this book was one of accepting his circumstances and his place within them without losing his own sense of self. It was compelling to watch his struggle finding the balance of belonging to his new group versus doing what was in his own self-interest. He made some choices that shocked me, and I couldn't help feeling a bit heartbroken for him when things didn't go the way he expected. Ragnvald's POV allowed for the continued exploration of Viking politics and what it means to be an honorable Viking warrior. The Christian viewpoints in this book were just as interesting, though. The political maneuvering between the church, French, and Holy Roman Empire in this book was absolutely brilliant to read, and I loved the addition of Bishop Reinhard. He is probably my favorite character in this series now because of his ruthless political acumen and uncanny ability to read and manipulate others to get what he wants. The fights in the book were brutal, and the author made me squirm in my seat with his vivid descriptions of the violence. I also really enjoyed reading all the battle strategies from both sides of the fighting. It made me feel like I was in the planning room before the battle and, then later, in the midst of the fighting. Despite all the great things about the book, the thing I found most interesting was the incorporation of true historical figures and seeing how they might have reacted if history had taken a different turn. While reading, the book felt well-researched and authentic, and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next. Therefore, it easily gets 4 out of 5 stars from me.
May 17, 2022
Fire of The Fallen is the second installment in J. C. Duncan's alternative history series, The Light of The North Saga. Book two picks up exactly where book one finished with the Norse continuing to fend off the brutal Crusade from the Christian Lords. The Christians will not stop until they've distinguished these pagans and their culture but the Norse have never been one to back down from a fight.
I said in in 2021 that book one, A Song of Steel, was my favourite read of 2021. Well, book two is even better again. This story has become so much more dark and entertaining as we follow the main characters on their individual journeys. You can expect everything you loved from the first book, from the realism portrayed through the characters to the impeccable research that's gone into every single aspect of this book. Its on point when it comes to Historical Fiction.
We continue to follow the main characters on both sides of this war. As mentioned above, the realism thats been injected into these characters has been perfectly executed. We get to enjoy an insight in to the cultures of both sides and even the transition from a Christian blacksmith to a slave of the Norse when it comes to Ordulf. We also get introduced to some new characters that only adds more drama and excitement to the story. I've always appreciated the level of knowledge that goes into Duncans books and I find myself learning a tonne of stuff.
When I'm reading any genre, I absolutely have to have a connection with the characters or it simply doesn't work for me. Duncan has a unique talent for bringing his characters to life and building that strong relationship between the reader and the characters in his books. I found that I was so immersed that I could feel the emotions, the stress and the exhaustion of these characters. I love it when you get completely captivated in the lives of the characters. If like me you're a character driven reader then I think this book will be right up your street.
The story itself is becoming so dark and I love the direction that Duncan has taken this story in. The history of the Norse is already a fascinating one and its even more fascinating when you explore the possibilities of what would have been if they did not convert to Christianity and continued on with their traditions.
I've always been a fan of any historical fiction but the subject of alternative history is slightly more interesting. To read someone's take on the what Ifs of history is truly fascinating, especially when you've got a great authors like J. C Duncan writing the books.
As mentioned above. The amount of research, passion and knowledge that's clearly gone into this book is astounding. Duncan has brought this story and its characters to life and in my opinion created a masterpiece that deserves all the credit it gets. Its a special thing for a reader when a book is as well executed as Fire of The Fallen.
If you've managed to get this far into my ramblings and have decided to read these books then I hope you enjoy them as much as I'm enjoying them.
I said in in 2021 that book one, A Song of Steel, was my favourite read of 2021. Well, book two is even better again. This story has become so much more dark and entertaining as we follow the main characters on their individual journeys. You can expect everything you loved from the first book, from the realism portrayed through the characters to the impeccable research that's gone into every single aspect of this book. Its on point when it comes to Historical Fiction.
We continue to follow the main characters on both sides of this war. As mentioned above, the realism thats been injected into these characters has been perfectly executed. We get to enjoy an insight in to the cultures of both sides and even the transition from a Christian blacksmith to a slave of the Norse when it comes to Ordulf. We also get introduced to some new characters that only adds more drama and excitement to the story. I've always appreciated the level of knowledge that goes into Duncans books and I find myself learning a tonne of stuff.
When I'm reading any genre, I absolutely have to have a connection with the characters or it simply doesn't work for me. Duncan has a unique talent for bringing his characters to life and building that strong relationship between the reader and the characters in his books. I found that I was so immersed that I could feel the emotions, the stress and the exhaustion of these characters. I love it when you get completely captivated in the lives of the characters. If like me you're a character driven reader then I think this book will be right up your street.
The story itself is becoming so dark and I love the direction that Duncan has taken this story in. The history of the Norse is already a fascinating one and its even more fascinating when you explore the possibilities of what would have been if they did not convert to Christianity and continued on with their traditions.
I've always been a fan of any historical fiction but the subject of alternative history is slightly more interesting. To read someone's take on the what Ifs of history is truly fascinating, especially when you've got a great authors like J. C Duncan writing the books.
As mentioned above. The amount of research, passion and knowledge that's clearly gone into this book is astounding. Duncan has brought this story and its characters to life and in my opinion created a masterpiece that deserves all the credit it gets. Its a special thing for a reader when a book is as well executed as Fire of The Fallen.
If you've managed to get this far into my ramblings and have decided to read these books then I hope you enjoy them as much as I'm enjoying them.
December 2, 2021
Even better than the first
This book takes you further into the world james has created giving you characters you love and those you will hate, some you will feel betrayed by and this is a testament to his writing ability. He also does a few things I didn't like at the start but which come into their own and hugely improves the world and story giving the world a chance to come alive.
The actual historical research is immaculate with even the blacksmithing being so deeply researched as to become a hobby.
This book takes you further into the world james has created giving you characters you love and those you will hate, some you will feel betrayed by and this is a testament to his writing ability. He also does a few things I didn't like at the start but which come into their own and hugely improves the world and story giving the world a chance to come alive.
The actual historical research is immaculate with even the blacksmithing being so deeply researched as to become a hobby.
July 29, 2022
Book 2 did not disappoint!
There was more war/battles/strategy in this book and less personal story but that did not detract from it one bit. I actually picked a side during this one, for about 3 chapters, then went back for rooting for both armies. Once again, the ending was so satisfying and Ordulf! Oh Ordulf! No spoilers but he's still my absolutely favourite and I cannot wait to see what he does in book 3. It's so amazing watching him learn and find his place and battle against the arrogance of youth.
Bring on book 3!
There was more war/battles/strategy in this book and less personal story but that did not detract from it one bit. I actually picked a side during this one, for about 3 chapters, then went back for rooting for both armies. Once again, the ending was so satisfying and Ordulf! Oh Ordulf! No spoilers but he's still my absolutely favourite and I cannot wait to see what he does in book 3. It's so amazing watching him learn and find his place and battle against the arrogance of youth.
Bring on book 3!
December 28, 2021
Great Read
I bought the first book on a whim and was very pleased to find out that the second book in the series was available. The only downside is now having to wait for book 3. The books are well researched and the characters are written excellently. You do not necessarily like some of them but none the less, are still keen to find out what happens to them.
I bought the first book on a whim and was very pleased to find out that the second book in the series was available. The only downside is now having to wait for book 3. The books are well researched and the characters are written excellently. You do not necessarily like some of them but none the less, are still keen to find out what happens to them.
September 8, 2023
amazing series!
I love how I see this war from both sides. From the perspective of the Christian knights to the honor and fighting code of the Norse. It is on the edge of your seat battle scenes where I can’t bear for either side to fall! Best historical depiction I have read in a long while.
I love how I see this war from both sides. From the perspective of the Christian knights to the honor and fighting code of the Norse. It is on the edge of your seat battle scenes where I can’t bear for either side to fall! Best historical depiction I have read in a long while.
March 25, 2024
1st book of mostly Viking fighting that brought me to tears at the funeral pyre
Liked reading from both the North men & Saxon sides of the war, and the slaves lives. The funeral pyre ceremony at the lake brought me to tears. In most books the Viking are not presented with such deep feelings!!
Liked reading from both the North men & Saxon sides of the war, and the slaves lives. The funeral pyre ceremony at the lake brought me to tears. In most books the Viking are not presented with such deep feelings!!
April 14, 2022
Excellent
Duncan went hard in his second book and I'm glad I picked it up. Not only is he an excellent storyteller with rich characterization and strong plot, the guy can write one hell of a fight scene. More books please JC
Duncan went hard in his second book and I'm glad I picked it up. Not only is he an excellent storyteller with rich characterization and strong plot, the guy can write one hell of a fight scene. More books please JC
November 23, 2023
A well-researched, well- scripted series
Not at all formulaic or predictable. The characters are portrayed as if by excellent actors in a film, conflicted, engaging and complex. Nothing wasted here, either in relationships or action.
Not at all formulaic or predictable. The characters are portrayed as if by excellent actors in a film, conflicted, engaging and complex. Nothing wasted here, either in relationships or action.
April 30, 2025
Continuing the highly entertaining tale
This the second in the series is both gripping and entertaining. It's first class tale told with both fantastic, and knowledgeable detail
This the second in the series is both gripping and entertaining. It's first class tale told with both fantastic, and knowledgeable detail
January 5, 2022
Interesting
A good series.I particular like the jump between the history and present day.a really good read and one I while heartedly recommend
Nice one 👍
A good series.I particular like the jump between the history and present day.a really good read and one I while heartedly recommend
Nice one 👍
January 19, 2022
Awesome read, it is just action packed and epic, the story is fantastic and it's very hard to put the book down once you start. Can't wait until the next.
March 15, 2022
Spelllbindimg
Just as good as the first. The story seems spot on in the way war was really waged on that scale!
Just as good as the first. The story seems spot on in the way war was really waged on that scale!
December 22, 2022
Just like the first book in the series I couldn't put this one down. Please keep on writing.
July 16, 2023
Great storytelling
Good balance of background descriptive & exciting action . For just a second book … bit of a cracker in my opinion !
Good balance of background descriptive & exciting action . For just a second book … bit of a cracker in my opinion !
October 31, 2023
Captivating-wow.
Instead of just reading a Saga, it was feeling it in real time. It was just haunting. Wow. Thank you to the author.
Instead of just reading a Saga, it was feeling it in real time. It was just haunting. Wow. Thank you to the author.
November 12, 2023
Not up to saga standards for me.
I usually can't wait for the next book, in this case, I'll pass. I find it interesting that curse words that didn't exist feature prominently.
I usually can't wait for the next book, in this case, I'll pass. I find it interesting that curse words that didn't exist feature prominently.
June 3, 2025
- This great series keeps rolling along. A delight to read.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews