Forged By Iron

Olaf's Saga #1

by Eric Schumacher

From the bestselling author of Hakon’s Saga comes Forged by Iron, the first in a series of thrilling tales about Olaf Tryggvason, one of the most legendary and enigmatic kings of the Viking Age.

Norway, AD 960. The fabric that has held the Northern realm together is tearing. The sons of Erik Bloodaxe have returned and are systematically killing all opposition to the High Seat. Through treachery, Harald Eriksson slays Jarl Trygvi, an heir to the throne, and then comes for Trygvi’s wife, Astrid, and son, Olaf.

Astrid and Olaf flee their home with the help of Astrid’s foster father, Torolv Loose-beard, and his son, Torgil, who are oath-sworn to protect them. The group escapes east, through the dark, forested land of the Swedes and across the treacherous East Sea, all the while evading the clutches of Harald’s brutal henchmen.

But the gods are fickle and the group is torn apart, forcing them to fend for themselves in Forged by Iron, a must-read for all who enjoy action-packed historical fiction.

Genres: Historical Fiction

296 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 15, 2020

About the author

Eric Schumacher (1968 - ) is the author of multiple bestselling historical fiction novels and one novella, all set in the Viking Age.

Schumacher discovered his love for writing and medieval European history at a very early age, as well as authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Bernard Cornwell, Jack Whyte, and Wilbur Smith. Those discoveries fueled his imagination and continue to influence the stories he tells. His first novel, God's Hammer, was published in 2005.

Schumacher now resides in Santa Barbara with his wife and two children.

You can follow Eric Schumacher on Amazon or by joining his newsletter at https://www.ericschumacher.net/reader....

Reviews

[Linnea Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forged by Iron is the first book in The Saga of King Olaf that sweeps you into a Nordic adventure in 960 AD. The Viking-era book is based on the tales of King Olaf but is told in first-person by Torgil, a twelve-year-old boy sworn to protect the reckless 8-year-old Prince Olaf. The story begins when the shy but courageous Torgil helps rescue Olaf after the young prince recklessly jumps off a cliff with a dare from his older companions. The resentment that Torgil holds for Olaf is established at the beginning of the tale as the Norns weave the fates of the young boys. They are both caught up in the political machinations of Holger who betrays and kills Olaf's father. Under the protection of Torgil and his father, Queen Astrid and Olaf are forced to escape with their lives on a harrowing journey through Norway, into Sweden, and modern-day Estonia. The travails the boys face forge them into hardened young men bent on vengeance.

Author Eric Schumacher masterfully captures the essence of the characters while telling a riveting adventure and coming of age story of two boys who must face almost insurmountable challenges. Torgil is an engaging character. Although he is sometimes jealous of Olaf, Torgil nonetheless does his duty to protect the young prince even though they sometimes clash. What makes this tale rise above others in this genre is the author’s ability to vividly capture the Viking culture and the harsh landscapes they must traverse. The story is rich with vivid, unique descriptions as seen through the eyes of a boy. One of the aspects I liked most is Torgil's confused feelings about the queen's handmaiden, Turid, in a budding relationship in which they reach out to each other at difficult times. The poignant moments are juxtaposed with the harsh realities that they face as they are chased by enemies bent on their destruction. Extra bonuses in the book include regional maps and a glossary of Viking terms which are used in the narrative.

Forged by Iron immerses you in the legendary tale of King Olaf as told by his protector's point of view. I highly recommend this character-driven Viking adventure for those who are swept up in the Nordic culture, landscape, and clashes. I look forward to continuing this saga when the next book comes out in this series.

[gwendalyn _books_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forged by Iron
by Eric Schumacher
Publication Date: April 15, 2020
Legionary - A Next Chapter Imprint
Series: Olaf's Saga, Book One
Genre: Historical Fiction
#ForgedbyIron #EricSchumacher #HFVBTBlogTours
@hfvbt  @EricSchumacherAuthor

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
⚔️
Forged by Iron, by Eric Schumacher, is the first installment in the Olaf's Saga, Book One.
Eric Schumacher, is the immensely talented bestselling author of Hakon’s Saga comes Forged by Iron, the first in a series of thrilling tales about Olaf Tryggvason, one of the most legendary and enigmatic kings of the Viking Age.
⚔️
Norway, AD 960.

The legendary tale of King Olaf Tryggvason, comes thrilling to life as told by his sworn protector's Torgil, a twelve summer old’s point of view.

Torgil, is the son of Torolv, Loose-beard, who lords over the island of Jel, along the coast of present-day Norway. Father and son are oath-bound to protect King Trygvi and and the young Prince Olaf, who is 8 summers old and his mother queen Astrid.

When King Trygvi is betrayed by the treacherous, Harald Eriksson the oldest remaining son of the Erik Bloodaxe brood. Moving to destroy all opposition in linage to the high seat, King Gudrod is also murdered.
Harald Eriksson, seeks the wife and heir of King Trygvi, who have escaped under the protection of Torolv and his young son Torgil.
This riveting, adventurous journey all the way through Norway into Sweden and to what is now Estonia.
This incredible book is richly detailed giving the opportunity for the reader to experience the trials and tribulation through the the eyes of Torgil. Shedding light on the charismatic, sometimes impulsive Prince Olaf.
This action packed historical fiction is one that I tore through. Brilliantly executed, the author ability to catapult you into this Viking saga is astonishing.
From the exceptional atmospheric imagery to the precision character development, you can see why this author has a notable following.
The characters leap of the page, and the authors seamless writing flows perfectly.

From start to finish I completely immersed myself within this Nordic adventure.
The author cleverly sets up the ending for the next book in series.

This absorbing coming of age Viking saga is one that you will remember long after you close the book. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading exquisite historical fiction.
⚔️
I exceptionally enjoyed this book, my father and oldest brother are named after
King Olaf Tryggvason. ...

#historicalfiction #bookaholic #bookphotography #2020readingchalleng

[Helen Hollick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must say that as a Swede, it is quite a pleasure to immerse myself in Mr Schumacher’s vivid depictions of life in the Scandinavia of the 10th century. I have previously read and enjoyed his books featuring Haakon the Good and now Mr Schumacher has leapt forwards a couple of decades to introduce us to the very young Olaf Tryggveson, one of the more enigmatic characters in Norse history.

Forged By Iron follows Olaf and his sworn companion Torgil on the journey from childhood to manhood. It is not an easy journey: Olaf’s father is murdered and Torgil’s father, Torolv, masterminds a heads-over-heels escape to Sweden. From there, the plan is to travel to Novgorod, where Olaf has an uncle who can keep him safe. Unfortunately, things happen.

Suddenly, Torgil is as fatherless as Olaf and the boys, Olaf’s mother Astrid and her very young maid, Turid, are sold as slaves in Estland (present day Estonia) There, Astrid is torn from her son. Where she goes one way, the boys and Turid end up in the same household. Turid’s gender leads to years of servitude as a concubine while Olaf and Torgil are destined to spend their endless days as thralls working bog-iron. Such hard work either breaks a man or makes him stronger than most, hence, I assume, the title.

Forged By Iron is told in the point of view of Torgil who is some years older than Olaf. While he is oath-sworn to Olaf, Torgel doesn’t exactly like Olaf. Quite understandable, as Olaf is something of a spoiled brat who rarely considers the implications of his actions on others. Mr Schumacher paints a lovely and endearing portrait of Torgil, a boy who may not have the charisma of Olaf, but who is steadfast and courageous, even when he is scared silly. I was especially touched by the relationship between Torgil and Turid. Clumsy and awkward, Torgil doesn’t know what to say or do to make Turid overcome her abuse, but he is somehow still there for her—and she knows it.

All in all, this was an engrossing read. Pace would perhaps have benefited from more abbreviated descriptions of the whole bog iron process but it is evident Mr Schumacher has done the research required to recreate the world of a distant past. Torgil, Torolv, Olaf, Turid and Astrid come alive as does their historical setting—which is why I forgive Mr Schumacher for that teensy weensy anachronistic potato.

Warmly recommended for Viking fans and for all those who enjoy a well-wrought coming-of-age story.

reviewed by Discovering Diamonds

[John Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent story!

This tale was essentially a "coming of age" story, intermingled with plenty of blood and gore. The son of a Viking "king" and his childhood friend and protector travel one step ahead of their sworn enemies, in and out of the cruel life of a slave and towards a promised future of vengeance and bloody carnage. This story reminded me of the old Sheffield saying, "rags to riches and back again, in three generations". During the dark ages a royal person could end up as a slave and a poor man prosper as a "robber baron". Well recommended!

[David Fitz-Gerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting New Viking Age Series

Forged by Iron is a fast read―fantastic from start to finish. Bone-crunching. Adrenaline-inducing. Swash-buckling, and it has well-developed characters and excellent descriptions too. The world-building paints vivid pictures of scenes such as a lord’s hall overlooking the ocean, and a dark, oily swamp near the iron forge.

The story opens in the year 960 AD, late in the Viking Age. The protagonist is Torgil, son of Torolv, who lords over the land of Jel, along the coast of present-day Norway. Father and son are duty-bound to protect King Trygvi and Prince Olaf. The reckless, mischievous young prince is especially difficult to safeguard. He is a couple of years younger than Torgil, and if anything happens to Olaf, Torgil knows that he will be held responsible. These are just some of the great characters presented in this book.

I love the map in the front of the book. It shows dashed lines, telling us that we’re headed on a trip through the land of the Swedes, across the East Sea, and finally to an island near what would today be Estonia. Also, I appreciated the glossary. The author presents names, people, places, Gods, and words that are challenging to pronounce. I’m pretty good with Fox in Sox, but I can’t say many of these words. Sometimes it seems like vowels are missing. Even so, this book is super readable, and the glossary is excellent preparation for the book. I like the verse that begins each part of this book. These little bits of poetry fit the story well.

From the spiritual side, there were a few moments that piqued my interest. At one point, Torgil says he “did not like riding with the dead, for it was common knowledge that their restless souls could wander.” Later a character asks, “Do you ever wonder why the Norns cut one man’s life-thread and not another’s? Intriguing. Later there is mention of “The undead draugar.” A revenant. I would have liked to know a little more about that. On another page, it says, “Now she was simply gone. Ripped from my life by a faceless enemy on a dark morning.” A faceless enemy? Hmm.

Torgil and those that travel with him experience many extreme challenges and hardships. The book spans many years as Torgil and his charge, Prince Olaf, reach adulthood. This is the first book in the series called, “The Saga of King Olaf.” Throughout, we learn about Olaf in bits and pieces. We’re left to feel that there’s something more about him that we need to know. Forged by Iron ends in a good spot, with the promise of more to come. Torgil says to another character near the end of the book, “Would you follow a lord who cannot wield a sword?” Not to worry. Prince Olaf can wield a sword, and he’s even better at throwing knives. Greatness is Olaf’s destiny.

Sure, it is gory and violent. After all, there is a “blade-thin gap between life and death,” and this is a Viking book.

[Johanna Wittenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting retelling of the Saga of Olaf Tryggvason, from the point of view of Olaf's companion and protector, Torgil. When Olaf's father, King Tryggvi, is murdered by Eric Bloodaxe, Olaf and his mother must flee under the protection of Torgil's heroic father. They escape first to Sweden, then Estonia in this thrilling, well-researched action tale.

[Paul Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

#ForgedbyIron #EricSchumacher #HFVBTBlogTours
 
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BLURB

From the bestselling author of Hakon’s Saga comes Forged by Iron, the first in a series of thrilling tales about Olaf Tryggvason, one of the most legendary and enigmatic kings of the Viking Age.

Norway, AD 960. The fabric that has held the Northern realm together is tearing. The sons of Erik Bloodaxe have returned and are systematically killing all opposition to the High Seat. Through treachery, Harald Eriksson slays Jarl Trygvi, an heir to the throne, and then comes for Trygvi’s wife, Astrid, and son, Olaf.

Astrid and Olaf flee their home with the help of Astrid’s foster father, Torolv Loose-beard, and his son, Torgil, who are oath-sworn to protect them. The group escapes east, through the dark, forested land of the Swedes and across the treacherous East Sea, all the while evading the clutches of Harald’s brutal henchmen.

But the gods are fickle and the group is torn apart, forcing them to fend for themselves in Forged by Iron, a must-read for all who enjoy action-packed historical fiction.

REVIEW

Good grief, just what I need, another fascinating series to get wrapped up in. My Kindle is overloaded...my to be read pile of paperbacks has exceeded the weight limit of my bookshelf. However, when an author produces a book like Forged By Iron, I welcome it despite the rapidly decreasing space on my Kindle, and the groaning of the pine boards of my bookshelf. I was captivated by this tale, so much so that I abandoned my usual reading habit. I tend to have 3 books going at the same time, and divide my reading time between them, but in the case of Forged By Iron, the other 2 current reads were temporarily shelved. A true page turning experience, Forged is replete with wonderful characters, and scintillating action. I could tell from the first chapter that the relationship between Olaf and his oath bound protector Torgil was not going to be an easy one, and that theme drives the narrative. Without giving away too much, the trials, tribulations, and the agonizing situation they are forced into are as exciting as anything I've read in the historical-fiction genre. This is indeed a well-crafted tale...and it is just the beginning.

5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Joshua Gillingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eric Schumacher presents the harrowing flight of young Olaf Tryggvason from the vengeful sons of Erik Bloodaxe in spectacular close-up detail through the eyes of young Torgil. Caught up in the deceptive schemes of Erik Bloodaxe’s sons, the two boys follow Torgil’s father, Torolv Loosebeard, as they flee to safety along with Queen Astrid, Olaf’s mother, and her retinue.

The narrative carries the reader across Norway, into Sweden, and through the Estlands as the fleeing party seeks safety with their kin in Holmgard, land of the Rus. Along the way Olaf and Torgil must grow into warriors as they suffer a brutal life undercover as thralls, a progression which Schumacher presents in grueling detail. In this, he has captured two equally vivid sides of Viking life, the valorous battles fought with bright shining steel and the stinking cesspit of the slave trading markets. He masterfully navigates the Norse customs of high-raftered halls while also illustrating the heart-breaking injustice of slavery.

Schumacher shines particularly bright while narrating battles at sea. These conflicts, fought in close quarters and on choppy waters on the far-famed Viking longships, were a defining feature of life in the East Sea in the time of Olaf Tryggvason. Through his retelling the reader feels as if they are aboard the ship in the thick of battle alongside Olaf and Torgil as they dodge deadly arrows and thrust their sharpened seaxes.

Schumacher also infuses his deep knowledge of Viking history into the narrative with details such as how to make Scandanavian dishes like skyr and the finer points of spear-fishing in the river. Further, he gives a nod to some recent archeological discoveries, including evidence of the Viking’s more industrial pursuits such as the production of tar and the extraction of iron. Yet in all his descriptions there is no sense of encyclopedic exposition; rather, these savory details flow through the narrative naturally.

Any complaints I had were small. Queen Astrid, though stoic, seemed to me to lack both the tenacity and cunning required of Viking queens of the age, particularly in the first section of the novel. Second, though the narrative follows an epic and heart-breaking arc, I felt at times the need for a bit more comic relief between the heavy subjects of the book such as the abuse of slaves and the death of parents. That being said, neither of these issues prevented me from thoroughly enjoying the book.

I highly recommend Schumacher’s Forged by Iron for anyone who has an interest in Viking history, particularly if they enjoyed The Long Ships (Frans G. Bengtsson) or The Half-Drowned King (Linnea Hartsuyker).

[Mary Yarde · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Oaths are like iron, Torgil," whispered my father as we watched the king embrace my former foster sister. "You cannot break them..."

King Trygvi had put his eight-year-old son's welfare into the hands of Torgil, son of Torolv. At twelve-years-old Torgil had felt honoured with the responsibility but right now when he saw that mischievous light in his young charges eyes he could only fear what Prince Olaf's playfulness would mean for him — a reprimand from the king, no doubt, and a lash from his father. But, Torgil would honour the oath, no matter what fate might have installed for him and Olaf.

From a witless leap into the cold and unforgiving sea to a battle that would end in either freedom or death, Forged By Iron (Olaf's Saga Book 1) by Eric Schumacher is the unforgettable story about a young boy's determination to honour his oath no matter what the circumstances.

With the dedicated devotion of a Skald and a novelist intuition for what makes a book entertaining, Schumacher has presented his readers with a novel that is as impressive as it is mesmerising. Forged by Iron (Olaf's Saga Book 1) is a story of betrayal, torment, suffering, and a deep and unbreakable friendship. It is the tale of two children who by oath find themselves forever beholding to each other. It is, in all ways, a richly detailed and emotionally charged story that leaves a reader gasping and begging for more.

Schumacher evokes such a strong sense of place and time in all of his books, and this one is no exception. His attention to the historical detail as well as the documented sources of Olaf's life has to be commended. The hours of research that went into this story is evident in the crystalline prose and enthralling storyline. Schumacher skillfully weaves historical fact with a little creative licence to pen a tale that is not only wonderfully developed but also one that is utterly captivating from start to finish. Schumacher is an author that makes history come alive in all of its glory and disasters. If this were the time of the Skald's, then Schumacher would have been in much demand in the Mead Halls.

With one eye on the history and the other on what entertains a reader, Schumacher has written his best book yet. Told through the eyes of young Torgil, Schumacher tells a story that is as heart-rendering as it is desperate. Torgil is a fabulously drawn protagonist whom a reader can get behind and root for. Torgil has two great gifts which sees him through some of the darkest of days — he knows when to keep silent, but he is also made of the strongest mettle. Events happen in this story that would break a man, let alone a child, but Torgil's determination and pig-headed grit to not only survive but take control of the situation made him so very likeable.

Breaking with historical fact, Schumacher decided to introduce us to Olaf slightly earlier than what the saga about this man state. I can understand his reason for doing so, and with regards to this story and these characters, it worked incredibly well. It gives the friendship between Olaf and Torgil a sense of authenticity — together they face some life-changing events that take them on an unexpected journey of hardship and suffering. This made their bond, and the oath so much more durable and realistic.

At the beginning of this tale, Olaf is a cheeky little boy, who like many children want to take part in what their older counterparts are doing. Olaf also has a reckless attitude to life — he is yet to realise he is not immortal. There is also a little arrogance to his personality — he is a prince, and he knows it. However, when his father is betrayed most dreadfully, Olaf unwittingly turns to Torgil. Olaf's relationship with Torgil changes through the course of this book. They become uncommonly close, and there is nothing one would not do for the other. I thought Olaf's depiction was marvellous. I really enjoyed reading about him.

There are several antagonists in this book, from the traitorous Holger to the vile and cruel Klerkon. But it was Heres' depiction that made my skin crawl. Heres is a despicably wicked man who torments our brave protagonists so very cruelly. I despised this character so much. He is the cause of so much suffering, and his disregard for life is disgustingly vile. Saying that, however, Heres really drives this story forward. Although this story is told by Torgil, it is the antagonists that control the narrative and the fate of these boys. One thing is for sure, Schumacher really knows how to pen a good villain.

Forged By Iron (Olaf's Saga Book 1) by Eric Schumacher is a book that begs to be read in one sitting. It demands your attention and is worthy of a place on your bookshelf. When historical fiction is written in such a way, then there is no such thing as too much. Book 2 cannot come soon enough.

I Highly Recommend.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.

[Mercedes Rochelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olaf Trygvasson was one of those colorful Viking kings whose life was almost too elaborate to be believed. But I never knew his early story, so this book was a real treat for me. Told from the point of view of Torgil, Olaf’s boyhood companion and protector—to an extent—we see a youth who was almost a dreamer, naughty, disobedient, and willful. Torgil didn’t like him very much and often found himself wanting to thrash him—in fact, he did once, before he learned to control his temper. We see no indication of a future king in this boy prince. From the very beginning they were beset by misfortune, as King Trygvi is betrayed by a trusted Jarl, and his wife Astrid and son Olaf are on the run, under the protection of Torgil’s father, along with Torgil and two female servants. Things go from bad to worse and they find themselves captured and sent into slavery, when Torgil’s father is killed:

My father did not hesitate. He swung the axe over his head, meaning to cleave the Estlander's skull in two, but the Norns and their tapestry of fate intervened. Two arrows slammed into my father's back, staggering him. Yelling his fury, he righted the blade and brought it down, but the Estlander sidestepped the awkward blow, bringing his own hand axe up and into my father's temple.

Not an auspicious start! But you get a taste of the vivid action scenes from the nimble pen of the author. We don’t get full-fledged battles in this book, but we witness many bloody altercations. As a thrall, Olaf seems to take each day as it comes, though several years pass before he gets lucky and is purchased by a relative who recognized him at the yearly market. Poor Torgil and party are left behind and need to plot their own way to freedom. And plot they do! Ultimately Torgil’s path meets up with Olaf once again and they are ready to take the next step forward toward Olaf’s destiny.

“I cannot explain it, but the Norns have great things planned for me. They always have. My father used to tell me such things when I was little, but it is only now that I understand his words and feel that calling in my bones. And here.” He patted his chest. “It is as if the Norns have woven a better path for my life.” Still a pagan, Olaf doesn’t foresee his future as a Christian. How does he get there? I predict many adventures ahead!

[J. Else · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Oaths are like iron, Torgil,” whispered my father… “You cannot break them. To do so is to bring shame to you and your name. See that you keep it.”

Norway, AD 960. Torgil has sworn an oath to protect Prince Olaf. But after Olaf’s father is killed and their home is attacked, 12-year-old Torgil and 8-year-old Olaf find themselves on the run. Their last hope is to reach the home of Olaf’s uncle, but the journey is long. Accompanying the boys are Torgil’s father, Olaf’s mother, and two female servants. As they race across land and sea, powerful enemies are never far behind. And with each harrowing step, Torgil’s oath becomes more and more difficult to keep.

Based on the Saga of King Olaf, the landscape and culture come alive with Schumacher’s strong imagery and fine details. Young Torgil isn’t happy by how the fates have tied him to Olaf and is constantly challenged (both emotionally and physically) by the oath made to their fathers. The two are often at odds, Torgil being more thoughtful and patient while Olaf is brash and impulsive. The tumultuous relationship adds an additional layer of tension to an already fast-paced plot. The boys live within a brutal society, particularly when the slavers come into play. However, elements are recounted in a way that isn’t overwhelming for readers. With the stakes constantly on high, Forged by Iron is a story that’s hard to put down. I look forward to more from this series. Schumacher has a talent for creating character-driven stories nestled within a historically rich setting.

Review originally posted via the Historical Novel Society at: https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...

[Elysium · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is told from Torgil’s point of view and at the start of the book he is a 12-year old boy who is charged with looking after 8-year old prince Olaf who loves to get into trouble. Olaf’s father King Trygvi is betrayed and killed so Olaf, his mother Astrid escape with few others first to Sweden and then to what is now Estonia.

I wasn’t overly fond of Olaf who certainly knows he’s a prince. He came off as an arrogant brat, but it will be interesting to see how he’ll turn out as a grown-up. Torgil, who as a child was kinda shy, holds a bit of resentment and jealousy for Olaf but they grow closer during their ordeals. I’m looking forward to seeing how their relationship will turn out now that their both adults and back together. How far Torgil’s sense of duty for looking after Olaf will take him?

I enjoyed reading the book and learning more about Olaf and of this time. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

[Steve Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting and Engaging

Another great read from Eric Schumacher. His writing is engaging and page turning I couldn't put the book down. Can't wait for next book in series.

[Una Verdandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forged by Iron retells the earliest sections of Olaf Trygvason’s saga in vivid detail. It's a fast-paced Viking Age adventure that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

[Sharon Osburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating & A Page Turner To The End

Eric Schumacher has another hit series! I had to read this since I had read Hakon's Saga Book 1 – God's Hammer Book 2 – Raven's Feast Book 3 – War King all excellent books as well. This story did not disappoint me it is a very well written story with a plot that will keep your interest. I highly recommend this and the others mentioned.

[Sizzle8689 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I enjoyed reading the novel about Olaf and his beginnings as written by the author, Eric. I look forward to reading the next book.

[T Paybe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I very much enjoyed this writers flow. He’s a great storyteller and I can’t wait Do you read more of his books.

[Susan C · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was terrific. What a great adventure. I also loved the historical details and thought the ending was very satisfying.

[Delores · Rating 5 out of 5]

Headline huh? One hell_o of a book

The book was wonderful to read, some of the book let u feel like u are their the fighting , and trying so hard to do what is right an to feel what they felt by being mistreated for u to do a lot of f research , I'm so happy people like u that can bring a book to life thank you for letting me have the honor thank you so much
Theirs was nothing I would change on the book, and yes I will tell my family an friends to read your book

[Mark Austin Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Read

I really enjoyed this book. The character development is amazing and I felt transported to that time and the journey they went on. Looking forward to the next book.

[Teresa Warner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a new author for me, received it after I won a copy off of a blog! This is told by the point of view through another's eyes. I really enjoyed it and continue to read the rest of the series as they come out.

[Alan Fulcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strong characters...

... Pushed the story along, albeit, a tad predictably. Even so, an enjoyable read and I look forward to the next tale of, Olaf.

[Silver Thorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping saga that follows a young Viking lad who will grow to become King Olaf. It starts off with the betrayal of Olaf's father which will see Olaf and his mother flee for their lives along with Torgil and his father who are both oath sworn to protect Olaf. The family is eventually betrayed and the the children are sold into slavery and Torgils father is killed. After years salving away in the peat bogs to recovery bog iron, their life blood seems to be ebbing away. All looks lost but then Olaf escorts the iron to market, he is spotted by his uncle and his freedom bought. All looks lost for the remaining captives including Torgil but they eventually rebel killing their captors. The Norms toy with the young lads which often see's their relationship strained.

Eric is able to draw you into the sometime brutal Nordic life and takes you on a journey that see's these young boys grow into men. It is not your typical we are going a Viking, lets raid Briton but you will not be disappointed by what appears to be a well researched story line. I am now on the third book in the saga and cannot wait for the fourth to be published.

[Ronan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Purchased on Accident: Pleasantly Disappointed

I purchased this through 1-click purchase and have never both regretted and been relieved by that decision more in my life. If I owned this book as a hardback I would be crying physical tears as well as the digital ones.

I have no idea whether this an accurate historical fanfiction, but it wasn't enjoyable. I did not enjoy reading about the fine details of lands that weren't explained and weeks upon weeks of sailing where either nothing happened or they were attacked. It might be based on reality, but in the most uninspiring ways possible.

In short, this book makes historians and by extension history look incredibly dull. It is not that bad, I promise. I loved looking into the early medieval era, especially all the Viking age exploits, which are not captured well here. As I say, it may be accurate, but I don't remember when the point of fiction was to be accurate. I wanted to have fun reading this, but honestly skip it.

[Mari · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a tale of the northern peoples. It’s filled with the cruelty of the ages and the loyalty that some lived by. To say action packed is putting it mildly. The King is dead, but his heirs live on and his enemies come for them. One of his warriors and his twelve-year-old son rescue the wife and her son Olaf. They have sworn to protect them and they flee across the landscape into the Eastern Sea, but are betrayed. The warrior is killed and the rest are sold as thralls (slaves) to extract the bog iron. The misery of all is documented.. The king-to-be was recognized when the owner had taken him along on an iron selling day and bought back. Then the son of the warrior hatches a plan after eight or ten long years and once again the fight continues. The dead are left for the animals and the birds as the imprisoned thralls make their break. Will they succeed? Will the man the boy king has become return for them?

[Izzy Krause]

Categories rated on a 10 point scale. Averaged and then translated into Star Rating. See CAWPILE by Book Roast.

I read this book as an audiobook via my local library and the Hoopla app. It was narrated by Gildart Jackson.

DNF @ 55%

I didn't feel as though Olaf was actually the main character. He was a spoilt brat that I wanted to turn over my knee and span like they did back then.

The writing and the plot were all fine, but I'm choosing not to rate because I think the narration may have a lot to do with why I couldn't get into the story.

The narration follows a teen boy, but an old crusty Brit is doing the narration? At least that's how it felt to me.

Characters: n/a
Atmosphere: n/a
Writing: n/a
Plot: n/a
Intrigue: n/a
Logic: n/a
Enjoyment: n/a

Points: n/a/70.0
Stars: n/a actual - n/a rounded

[John Francis]

Fascinating.

After reading the trilogy of Hakon the good by the same author, which is brilliant by the way, I decided to try this 2 book series. I thoroughly enjoyed it too. It hums along at great pace with twists and turns. I can't imagine living the life of someone who one minute had a great life and the next, the life of a thrall. It's a good read. Going to buy the next in the series right now.

[Jeff Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting start

This is the first I have read by this author but I like it. I am on anti of a Norse/Viking kick at the moment. I like the characters, they feel real, like you know someone who is each character. Intrigued to see where the story leads.

[Edward Newfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rattling good yarn

Enjoyed the story although I would have expected a.much earlier attempt to.escape slavery.

Incidentally a meal.of fish and potatoes would have been impossible in primitive Scandinavia, as the potato did not appear in Europe until the 16th century.

[Cathy Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

fast paced and well written

I really enjoyed this book and found it to be very well written. The characters are well developed so that you get to really understand their personality which adds greatly to the story.