Books matching: viking raids
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- #1Avalonby:
Save:Avalon is a sweeping, ambitious saga for fans of historical fiction who enjoy deep dives into culture, place, and time - just be ready for a slower, more contemplative journey than a traditional love story.
'Avalon' by Anya Seton is a historical fiction novel set in 10th century Britain during the Viking and Norman conquests. The story follows the tumultuous lives of French prince Rumon and Cornish lady-in-waiting Merewyn as they navigate court life, Viking raids, love, and tragedy. Merewyn, who believes herself to be descended from King Arthur, and Rumon, a prince in search of the mythical Avalon, experience a journey filled with real historical figures, serendipity, tragedy, and unnameable longing for something beyond their known world.
Anya Seton's writing style in 'Avalon' is described as transporting the reader back to the Dark Ages, immersing them in a period of Viking raids and deceit on the English throne. The novel intricately weaves together historical facts and vivid imagination, inspiring readers to delve deeper into the time period and characters presented in the book.
1956•447 pages - #2
Save:'A Hollow Crown' by Helen Hollick is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of Emma of Normandy, a pivotal figure in the history of Anglo-Saxon England. The plot follows Emma's journey from a young girl married to King Aethelred known as the Unready, through the turbulent times of Viking raids and internal strife, to her marriage to Cnut, a Viking king who later becomes a saint in the eyes of the English people. The writing style is engaging, with a clear and chronological layout that offers a realistic portrayal of life in England before the Norman conquest, showcasing bloody battles, treachery, murder, and intrigue as part of human nature during the dark and middle ages.
Emma was uncertain whether it was a growing need to visit the privy, or the remaining queasiness of mal de mer, seasickness, that was making her feel so utterly dreadful. Or was it the man waiting at...August 2004•617 pages - #3
Save:A quirky, well-researched time-slip into Viking-era Ireland: warm, atmospheric, and recommended for fans of historical fantasy - provided you don’t mind a few oddball protagonists and a gentle pace.
'The Book of Kells' by R.A. MacAvoy is a time-travel fantasy set in modern and Viking Ireland. The story follows an artist, John Thornburn, and his professor girlfriend, Derval O'Keane, who accidentally open a time gate to an Irish abbey attacked by Vikings. They get involved in rescuing victims, fighting Vikings, and navigating the complex politics of 10th-century Ireland. The plot is a mix of historical accuracy and fantasy elements, with engaging characters and richly evocative descriptions of the time period.
Perhaps the sound of the Uillean pipes was knocking plaster from the ceiling, or perhaps John Thornburn had neglected his household duties, for the ramps of sunlight braced against the floor were spar...1985•365 pages - #4
Save:'Swan Road' by Rebecca Brandewyne is a historical romance set in 865-866 A.D., following the story of Wulfgar Bloodaxe, a Norse warrior who captures Rhowenna, Princess of Usk, in Wales. The plot revolves around Wulfgar's journey to claim his place among his people, his affection for Rhowenna, and the challenges they face as they navigate through political turmoil, family betrayals, and the clash of cultures. The writing style is described as detailed, captivating, and well-researched, with elements of Norse mythology, Viking raids, and the struggles of the characters woven intricately into the narrative.
January 1994•387 pages - #5
Save:'Enthralled' in the series 'Viking Lore' by author Emma Prince is a captivating historical romance set in the Viking era. The story follows Laurel, a young woman who has faced a lifetime of cruelty and abuse at an abbey, only to be captured by Viking raiders. Eirik, a Viking unlike the brutal warriors often portrayed, claims Laurel as his thrall to protect her from his malicious cousin. As Laurel and Eirik navigate treachery and betrayal, a forbidden romance blossoms amidst the backdrop of Viking culture and history.
Emma Prince's writing style brings the Viking world to life with vivid descriptions, fast-paced action, and well-developed characters. Readers are drawn into a world filled with conflict, adventure, and love, where the boundaries between loyalty and betrayal are tested, making 'Enthralled' a must-read for fans of Viking historical romance.
“Lower the sail!” Eirik bellowed. For a moment, he feared the wind had snatched his voice, but then he saw the black outlines of his crew rise from the deck and move on uncertain feet toward the halya...2015•353 pages - #6
Save:A bloody, adrenaline-fueled Viking adventure that's hard to put down - perfect for fans of Norse sagas and action-packed historical fiction.
Blood Eye by Giles Kristian is a fast-paced Viking tale that follows the journey of an orphan named Osric who finds himself among Norse warriors, leading to his transformation into the mighty warrior known as Raven. The book is filled with blood, guts, action, betrayal, and treachery, painting a vivid picture of the harshness and cruelty of Viking life. The plot is engaging, the characters are well-developed with a mix of flaws and strengths, and the writing style is easy to follow, making it an exciting and gripping read for fans of historical fiction and Viking tales.
IT WAS April. The lean days of fasting and the long months of winter had been forgotten with the full bellies of the Easter feast. The people were busy with the outdoor tasks that the icy winds had ke...October 2009•432 pages - #7
Save:A classic Follett epic - packed with drama, history, and heart - perfect for fans of sprawling historical fiction, but possibly too familiar or formulaic for some.
"The Evening and the Morning" by Ken Follett is a prequel to his popular novel "The Pillars of the Earth" and is set in England during the Middle Ages, specifically in the year 997 AD. The story follows the lives of three main characters - Edgar, a gifted boatbuilder's son who faces tragedy due to Viking raids, Ragna of Normandy who struggles with her marriage to a British earl, and Brother Aldred, a monk with aspirations of creating a renowned center for education. The novel is described as a completely modern historical fiction with explicit sex, a mix of sweet romance and villainy, and strong, competent female characters, vividly portraying medieval society and ordinary life details.
Follett's storytelling in "The Evening and the Morning" is hailed as masterful, engaging readers with a mix of Vikings, power-hungry family members, slaves, and monks. is praised for its rich historical details, intense plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and the ability to transport readers into the setting with vivid descriptions that appeal to the senses. The writing style is noted for its ability to evoke the sights, sounds, and emotions of each character, making it an immersive reading experience.
He had spread his cloak over the reeds on the floor and now he lay on it, dressed in the knee-length brown wool tunic that was all he wore in summer, day and night. In winter he would wrap the cloak a... - #8
Save:This is a fun, light historical romance with quirky characters and clever twists - a great pick if you want something entertaining, heartfelt, and not too heavy. Just don’t expect absolute historical perfection!
Set in Cumbria in the 9th century, 'Loki's Daughters' by Delle Jacobs follows the story of Arienh, a Celtic woman who harbors deep hatred towards Vikings due to past traumatic events. When a Viking named Ronan returns to claim her as his bride, Arienh must navigate her feelings of anger and mistrust while the women of her village struggle to accept the new arrivals. The plot unfolds with a mix of romance, historical elements, and themes of tradition versus change, all depicted in a light and accessible writing style that keeps the story engaging and the characters well-developed.
The book portrays the journey of Arienh and Ronan as they navigate their complicated relationship amidst cultural differences and past grievances. Through the interactions between the characters, especially the development of Arienh and Ronan's dynamics, the story explores themes of trust, resilience, and the struggle between holding onto the past and embracing new beginnings. Overall, 'Loki's Daughters' offers a blend of historical romance, character-driven storytelling, and a touch of humor through the interactions between the Celtic women and the Viking men.
SHE HAD NOT been to the stone circle in a sennight, and Arienh yearned to escape to its quiet serenity. But rain had fallen long and hard for six days, and the river lapped threateningly at its banks....June 2002•342 pages - #9
Save:Gripping, gritty, and rich with nautical detail, Fin Gall is a rollicking Viking adventure that historical fiction fans will devour - just don’t expect a sanitized or totally textbook take on Irish or Norse history.
"Fin Gall" in the series "The Norsemen Saga" by James L. Nelson is a historical novel set in AD 852, focusing on the rivalry between the Norsemen and Danes in Ireland. The story follows three generations of Norsemen - Ornolf, Thorgrim, and Harald - as they raid the coast of Ireland in search of loot, including a mystical jeweled headpiece that can unite the warring kings of Ireland. The narrative is filled with action, intrigue, and power struggles among various Irish factions and the invading Norse and Danes, all set against a backdrop of historical events and battles.
Nelson creates a believable and historically accurate backdrop for the story, fleshing it out with well-developed characters, notably the protagonist Thorgrim Nightwolf, who is portrayed as a verifiable badass with understandable emotions. is described as well-paced, complex enough to keep readers guessing, and culminates in a satisfying ending, with villains who are despicable yet not one-dimensional.
He stood up in the bow of the longship, his longship, which he called Red Dragon. He kept one massive arm wrapped around the slender wooden neck that swept up in an elegant arc and ended fifteen feet...January 2013•288 pages - #10
Save:A lively, accessible, and entertaining dive into the Viking world - ideal for curious readers and anyone looking to separate myth from reality, but less suited for academic research or those after a strictly chronological history.
Neil Oliver's book on 'The Vikings' provides an in-depth exploration of the Viking culture, history, and influence on the world. Oliver's writing style is engaging and informative, bringing to life the diverse aspects of Viking society across Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. The book delves into the Viking's impact on various regions, their trading activities, exploration, and the blending of their strong Viking blood and DNA into different populations.
‘I’ve seen things you people wouldn’t believe. Attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Orion. I watched c-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhäuser Gate. All those moments will be lost in time, l...2012•336 pages
