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The Viking Blood and Blade Saga #4
King of War
874 AD, Norway. A brutal place, home of warriors where Odin holds sway. King Harald Fairhair fights to become king of the north. Hundr , a Northman with a dog's name... a crew of battle hardened warriors... and a legendary war where the will of the gods will determine who is victorious. After incurring the wrath of Ketil Flatnose , Jarl of the Orkney isles, Hundr and his crew become drawn into King Harald's fight for supremacy over all Norway. Hundr must retrieve the Yngling sword, a blade forged for the gods themselves, and find favor with an old friend, Bjorn Ironside , as he fights a vicious and deadly enemy, Black Gorm the Berserker . Hundr must navigate the war, survive brutal attacks, and make Harald the King of War in this fast paced adventure with striking characters and bloodthirsty action. King of War continues the unmissable Viking historical fiction saga series which began with Peter Gibbons' debut novel Viking Blood and Blade.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 18, 2022
538 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Peter Gibbons
42 books284 followersI am an author based in Kildare in Ireland, with a passion for Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Science Fiction, and of course writing! My books include the Viking Blood and Blade Saga and the Saxon Warrior Series. You can visit my own website at www.petermgibbons.com or find me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Peter-Gibbon...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 11, 2023
Life and death on the high seas!
What an enigma the Vikings were, with their warped sense of honour, their cruelty, their undoubted bravery and their love of fighting. Men fought for silver, for land, for reputation and for the amusement of their gods. To die an honourable death, with weapon in hand and gain admittance to the mythical Valhalla, was the dream of every warrior. Not many died as old men in their beds. This series is a dark, violent story of such warriors. You may not like them but, if you lived in their timescale, you most certainly feared them.
What an enigma the Vikings were, with their warped sense of honour, their cruelty, their undoubted bravery and their love of fighting. Men fought for silver, for land, for reputation and for the amusement of their gods. To die an honourable death, with weapon in hand and gain admittance to the mythical Valhalla, was the dream of every warrior. Not many died as old men in their beds. This series is a dark, violent story of such warriors. You may not like them but, if you lived in their timescale, you most certainly feared them.
October 7, 2022
Cracking read!
What a book, it hooked me straight in again like the rest of the series and just kept a fast pace from start to finish. This series was well written and plotted out with great characters, good and bad, and epic battles. I dearly hope this wasn’t the last, I’d love to read more of Hundr and his crew.
What a book, it hooked me straight in again like the rest of the series and just kept a fast pace from start to finish. This series was well written and plotted out with great characters, good and bad, and epic battles. I dearly hope this wasn’t the last, I’d love to read more of Hundr and his crew.
November 3, 2023
An Award-Winning Novel Worthy of a Read
Let me start by saying that I picked up this novel because it won Amazon’s Literary Contest. As a writer and lover of historical fiction, picking up this novel was a no-brainer. Despite not having any prior knowledge of the story before “King of War,” I found it an easy read with a smooth, linear, cohesive plotline.
I’m not afraid to admit that I am a simple man who doesn’t need complex plot threads, so, once again, Peter Gibbons proved why he’s an author I admire and enjoy. If you’re looking for a vast world, this isn’t it. The camera is very focused on the Man with a Dog’s name and his friend Inar. Their relationship is amazing, and we get to see that friendship challenged.
When a friend feels betrayed, not because of a single act but because of his inadvertent failures happening at the same time as one friend is finding success. That type of resentment makes for some amazing tension and a great scene that invokes real emotion. I found myself thinking… It’s like loaning someone $10, and they cash in on a $10,000 ticket; their life gets better, and yours goes into foreclosure. Yeah, I’d be a little upset too.
Gibbons made this an easy read with effective prose. I like to refer to them as blue-collar prose with analogies that lend themselves to the lore of the world. “The impact came with a crash that shook the gods in Asgard,” gave us a visual of one fast-approaching ship crashing into another during a sea battle. Another analogy, “His fist burned like a blacksmith’s sword,” described broken hands.
As always, Gibbons does a great job painting a vivid, bloody picture. One example saw a character jam a thumb deep into someone’s eyes, feeling the jelly beneath his thumb.
“King of War” was impressive in a way that took something simple and made it insanely engaging. He focused on relationships and consequences as one man drives to achieve a dream.
Let me start by saying that I picked up this novel because it won Amazon’s Literary Contest. As a writer and lover of historical fiction, picking up this novel was a no-brainer. Despite not having any prior knowledge of the story before “King of War,” I found it an easy read with a smooth, linear, cohesive plotline.
I’m not afraid to admit that I am a simple man who doesn’t need complex plot threads, so, once again, Peter Gibbons proved why he’s an author I admire and enjoy. If you’re looking for a vast world, this isn’t it. The camera is very focused on the Man with a Dog’s name and his friend Inar. Their relationship is amazing, and we get to see that friendship challenged.
When a friend feels betrayed, not because of a single act but because of his inadvertent failures happening at the same time as one friend is finding success. That type of resentment makes for some amazing tension and a great scene that invokes real emotion. I found myself thinking… It’s like loaning someone $10, and they cash in on a $10,000 ticket; their life gets better, and yours goes into foreclosure. Yeah, I’d be a little upset too.
Gibbons made this an easy read with effective prose. I like to refer to them as blue-collar prose with analogies that lend themselves to the lore of the world. “The impact came with a crash that shook the gods in Asgard,” gave us a visual of one fast-approaching ship crashing into another during a sea battle. Another analogy, “His fist burned like a blacksmith’s sword,” described broken hands.
As always, Gibbons does a great job painting a vivid, bloody picture. One example saw a character jam a thumb deep into someone’s eyes, feeling the jelly beneath his thumb.
“King of War” was impressive in a way that took something simple and made it insanely engaging. He focused on relationships and consequences as one man drives to achieve a dream.
May 21, 2024
Probably my favorite book in the series so far. Some legendary warriors such as Harald Fairhair, Bjorn Ironside, and Ketil Flatnose were all part of the story.
February 13, 2023
I have just finished this book and I must say that the story has not lagged throughout the series, Spending time on the Whale Road with the man with the Dog name and his various crews has been a delight and I cannot recommend this series highly enough to readers that like there sagas mean and dirty. Only one story left in this series and I am reluctanr to start this as it will be the conclusion of a great set of books. But I can look forward to the new Saxon Warrior series so its not all doom and gloom
June 19, 2024
Well up to the standard of earlier books! (don't worry, no spoilers!)
There's been a trend recently to skew tales to fit the modern agendas. Usually to the detriment of the story and that's sad.
THANKFULLY we can find authors like Peter Gibbons who's rare talent is writing enthralling stories, beautifully crafted, full of rich, relatable (even though they inhabit a totally alien time) flawed characters. The research here is amazing. The story starts just where the last book left off with a raid and fairly rips along at a typically cracking pace. As I mentioned, the writing is so vivid, with a level of detail, you can really immerse yourself in 9thC Northern Europe. At times you can practically feel the spray of the Whale road!
I especially like the character development. Strengths and weaknesses, friendships and enmities, cloak and dagger, it's all here. Now, don't get me wrong, there's PLENTY of action described in a way that could leave you breathless. This culminates in the inevitable big battle with a suitably satisfactory ending, (even a bit of a twist).
I'm definitely looking forward to the next instalment, (already downloaded) plus, I've just discovered there's a Saxon series too! Have to check that out! Anyway, I highly recommend this series of books and this author.
Thanks for reading MY novel! 😂
There's been a trend recently to skew tales to fit the modern agendas. Usually to the detriment of the story and that's sad.
THANKFULLY we can find authors like Peter Gibbons who's rare talent is writing enthralling stories, beautifully crafted, full of rich, relatable (even though they inhabit a totally alien time) flawed characters. The research here is amazing. The story starts just where the last book left off with a raid and fairly rips along at a typically cracking pace. As I mentioned, the writing is so vivid, with a level of detail, you can really immerse yourself in 9thC Northern Europe. At times you can practically feel the spray of the Whale road!
I especially like the character development. Strengths and weaknesses, friendships and enmities, cloak and dagger, it's all here. Now, don't get me wrong, there's PLENTY of action described in a way that could leave you breathless. This culminates in the inevitable big battle with a suitably satisfactory ending, (even a bit of a twist).
I'm definitely looking forward to the next instalment, (already downloaded) plus, I've just discovered there's a Saxon series too! Have to check that out! Anyway, I highly recommend this series of books and this author.
Thanks for reading MY novel! 😂
May 30, 2024
I do enjoy this series but so far this book was not my favorite.
Hundr and his gang plunge Ketil Flatnose while he is away and they find Rollo. Rollo was a prisoner and Hundr releases him. Of course in many Viking stories, Rollo is a betrayer. He betrays Hundr by siding with Ketil in the war for being King of all Norway. Harald Fairhair
Is in a war with many Jarls. Hundr seas it as an opportunity to get his men more silver by fighting for Harald because if he wins, Harald will grant him land. Rollo and Gorm the Beserker kidnap Finn, Einar’s son but really Ivar’s son. Hundr and his crew go on the hunt for Finn. They get him back just in time for the war to happen. Harald wins and Rollo still lives. Einar becomes a Jarl.
I felt like this book was predictable compared to the other ones in the series. Usually there is a few unpredictable moments. This book was still good but not my favorite in this series.
Hundr and his gang plunge Ketil Flatnose while he is away and they find Rollo. Rollo was a prisoner and Hundr releases him. Of course in many Viking stories, Rollo is a betrayer. He betrays Hundr by siding with Ketil in the war for being King of all Norway. Harald Fairhair
Is in a war with many Jarls. Hundr seas it as an opportunity to get his men more silver by fighting for Harald because if he wins, Harald will grant him land. Rollo and Gorm the Beserker kidnap Finn, Einar’s son but really Ivar’s son. Hundr and his crew go on the hunt for Finn. They get him back just in time for the war to happen. Harald wins and Rollo still lives. Einar becomes a Jarl.
I felt like this book was predictable compared to the other ones in the series. Usually there is a few unpredictable moments. This book was still good but not my favorite in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2022
Hundr is the classical image of a Viking warrior. These stories have been great. Now we have the introduction of the Ulfrenojr, Wolf Warriors, as befserkers, first introducing to us on Griff Hoskers Dragon Heart books. Mentioned also in books by other authors. They give an insight to the savagery and brutality of the times. Always a great reads, will there be another Hundr story of when he goes a Viking on the whale road, I hope so.
August 23, 2023
another good one yet so much quick pacing
The characters are so well developed at this point, and the Viking culture is evident. Two issues I have with this story are the quick movement of time, which doesn’t make sense with sea travels, and the deus ex machina moments (like the right guy who is part of the crew whose name we’ve never heard suddenly has the crucial information. Rollo will be a great villain, and now the Rus Folk are on the scene.
It's such a fun story.
The characters are so well developed at this point, and the Viking culture is evident. Two issues I have with this story are the quick movement of time, which doesn’t make sense with sea travels, and the deus ex machina moments (like the right guy who is part of the crew whose name we’ve never heard suddenly has the crucial information. Rollo will be a great villain, and now the Rus Folk are on the scene.
It's such a fun story.
August 7, 2022
king of War
Another rollicking saga from our favourite Viking that seems to collect numerous wounds yet still is invincible!
The final battle of ships is fine yet? I have read enough of ships battles from that era who,when in Sea battles relied heavily on fire arrows.
no mention of them in this battle which is strange maybe!
Another rollicking saga from our favourite Viking that seems to collect numerous wounds yet still is invincible!
The final battle of ships is fine yet? I have read enough of ships battles from that era who,when in Sea battles relied heavily on fire arrows.
no mention of them in this battle which is strange maybe!
January 25, 2024
Super excellent series if you're a viking warrior freak like me. I was hooked from the 1st chapter of the first book in this Blood and Blade series and read them all. This author goes above and beyond in his descriptions of characters and battle scenes. You can literally visualize what's happening as if it were a movie. This series should be movies.
Glad I found Peter Gibbons and will definately be reading and following all his stuff. THANK YOU!
Glad I found Peter Gibbons and will definately be reading and following all his stuff. THANK YOU!
July 24, 2022
First Class - Brilliant!
Thoroughly riveting series. Action packed throughout. I could not put this book Down. I hope that there will be a fifth book. Looking forward to the Saxon series.
Thank you.
Thoroughly riveting series. Action packed throughout. I could not put this book Down. I hope that there will be a fifth book. Looking forward to the Saxon series.
Thank you.
September 17, 2022
Fabulous ,captivating
Great writing ,fabulous follow through .couldn't out it down .the plot is fast ,furious and excitinng.You have to read all four books to appreciate the whole works .thank you for the sleepless nights .Couldn't put the books down.
Great writing ,fabulous follow through .couldn't out it down .the plot is fast ,furious and excitinng.You have to read all four books to appreciate the whole works .thank you for the sleepless nights .Couldn't put the books down.
October 2, 2022
riveting! I thoroughly enjoyed this saga.
I thoroughly enjoyed this saga, & missed many an hour sleeping because I L needed” to read some more. Great characters, well-drawn f individually fascinating. More, please!
I thoroughly enjoyed this saga, & missed many an hour sleeping because I L needed” to read some more. Great characters, well-drawn f individually fascinating. More, please!
October 20, 2022
Live battles written well
The battles scenes were written so well that I thought I was really there. On goes hero back to the whale road as a Sea Jarl again as he was at start. But this time maybe a wife if not more silver. I hope a book five is in the works.
The battles scenes were written so well that I thought I was really there. On goes hero back to the whale road as a Sea Jarl again as he was at start. But this time maybe a wife if not more silver. I hope a book five is in the works.
November 16, 2022
Bloody mess, of days of old.
Exceptional battles, during the days of Vikings. I enjoyed reading chapter after chapter, couldn't stop reading the next battle. I gave it 5 stars, welled earn.
Exceptional battles, during the days of Vikings. I enjoyed reading chapter after chapter, couldn't stop reading the next battle. I gave it 5 stars, welled earn.
December 4, 2022
A good conclusion to a good read
I have enjoyed all four books in this story and would recommend them for their story line and the graphic description of conflict in battles of the time period.
I have enjoyed all four books in this story and would recommend them for their story line and the graphic description of conflict in battles of the time period.
September 11, 2023
Great book.
Again, it’s somewhat frustrating when a book in a series is written so that the reader can skip the books before it. Some background is always required to be stated when some of the readers are new or skipped the books before it.
Again, it’s somewhat frustrating when a book in a series is written so that the reader can skip the books before it. Some background is always required to be stated when some of the readers are new or skipped the books before it.
April 12, 2025
Great read
This was a great read if you are up for a blood soaked Viking adventure full of great characters excitement,a great plot and blood and gore filled battles then this is the book for you I loved it and can't wait to get stuck into the next book in this brilliant series.
This was a great read if you are up for a blood soaked Viking adventure full of great characters excitement,a great plot and blood and gore filled battles then this is the book for you I loved it and can't wait to get stuck into the next book in this brilliant series.
January 17, 2026
King of War delivers relentless action that kept me hooked from start to finish. The battle scenes are graphic, and the characters, especially Hundr and his crew, are bold, flawed, and unforgettable. This instalment is a standout in the saga. On to the next...
July 28, 2022
bloody good read
I cannot wait for the next book great read great story but what a terrible life they led death and glory nothing else but fight your way to the top and then die 🤔
I cannot wait for the next book great read great story but what a terrible life they led death and glory nothing else but fight your way to the top and then die 🤔
July 30, 2022
A satisfying end to Hundr's quest.
Another saga of Hundr & his crew of Vikings & Valkyries. Harald now King of Norway. Einer the Brawler with land and title. Great storytelling!
Another saga of Hundr & his crew of Vikings & Valkyries. Harald now King of Norway. Einer the Brawler with land and title. Great storytelling!
August 2, 2022
Hundr in book 4 conclusion has been great! Non-stop fighting between the jarls and for the King of all Norway.
September 5, 2022
Great action saga. Gore and war on every page.
September 19, 2022
Fast paced and exciting
I am a Bernard Cornwall fan, this is as exciting as his. I can't wait to start the next one!!
I am a Bernard Cornwall fan, this is as exciting as his. I can't wait to start the next one!!
December 6, 2022
Great read
I hope this is not the last book about hundr a dogs name it would be a shame to end his story here
I hope this is not the last book about hundr a dogs name it would be a shame to end his story here
December 10, 2022
Thrilling book
This book is action packed and come to a good ending. I will be recommending this to others without a doubt
This book is action packed and come to a good ending. I will be recommending this to others without a doubt
January 12, 2023
Good not great
Its an easy read. I'm at the point that I have to finish he series. Truly enjoyable boook just not as good as the start
Its an easy read. I'm at the point that I have to finish he series. Truly enjoyable boook just not as good as the start
January 16, 2023
Best series
I definitely recommend this series to anyone interested in Viking lore and stories. The series continues and I plan to follow it until Peter Ribbons ends it.
I definitely recommend this series to anyone interested in Viking lore and stories. The series continues and I plan to follow it until Peter Ribbons ends it.
January 21, 2023
adventure worth joining
Such an addictive series that not only draws you in, but makes you live the life of a Viking Drengr. Great characters, tears, laughter and yes love
Such an addictive series that not only draws you in, but makes you live the life of a Viking Drengr. Great characters, tears, laughter and yes love
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews