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Ross (3284 KP) rated You Die When You Die in Books
Jan 21, 2020
Fantastic witty pre-historic Viking / Native American fantasy
This is the alternative-reality story of the Hardworkers, a small clan of Viking descendants in pre-Columbian North America. A mentally-damaged young boy in the clan has a premonition that the village will be attacked and they should head west. When the village is indeed attacked by natives (who themselves had a premonition of these Vikings ending the world), the clan quickly up-sticks and head off.
There follows a brilliant, exciting, funny story of this small clan with mixed abilities (some well trained warriors, some powerful yet cowardly warlocks, some useless wastes of space) travelling across North America, hunted by the magically-enhanced warriors sent to end them, and meeting numerous clans and tribes along the way.
The wonderful merging of plausible pre-history America and a more familiar fantasy setting (prophecies, evil empires, warriors) results in this superb story. The dialogue is witty and funny, the world is familiar yet strange enough to make you think, and the action sequences are fantastically narrated, often from different viewpoints.
The characters are all very well crafted and unique, and their interactions and conflicts really spur this story on.
I would urge anyone keen on fantasy to read this book. While the cover, and title, may suggest it is a brutal slobberknocker of a book, it is actually very clever, funny and thrilling.
I cannot wait to jump in to the next book in this trilogy. Wootah!!!
There follows a brilliant, exciting, funny story of this small clan with mixed abilities (some well trained warriors, some powerful yet cowardly warlocks, some useless wastes of space) travelling across North America, hunted by the magically-enhanced warriors sent to end them, and meeting numerous clans and tribes along the way.
The wonderful merging of plausible pre-history America and a more familiar fantasy setting (prophecies, evil empires, warriors) results in this superb story. The dialogue is witty and funny, the world is familiar yet strange enough to make you think, and the action sequences are fantastically narrated, often from different viewpoints.
The characters are all very well crafted and unique, and their interactions and conflicts really spur this story on.
I would urge anyone keen on fantasy to read this book. While the cover, and title, may suggest it is a brutal slobberknocker of a book, it is actually very clever, funny and thrilling.
I cannot wait to jump in to the next book in this trilogy. Wootah!!!
Debbiereadsbook (1444 KP) rated Wolf of the Nordic Seas (Valiant Vikings #2) in Books
May 19, 2025
as well as the Viking folklore, we got a paranormal element too!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the Valiant Vikings series. While not strictly necessary, I think it would be beneficial to read book one, Dragon of Denmark, before this one. It will give you a better view of this world, how it works and of the author's writing style.
I enjoyed book one, but for the repetitive descriptions of runes and things. That is why I found this a much more . . .difficult(?) . . .read.
The repeating of what runes are for, what the stones are for, and who did what and when takes up a huge portion of this book. I found myself skimming paragraphs just to get back to the story. I didn't feel I missed anything by doing so, either!
I did like that Elfi and Njord both have the majority voice. I loved that we hear again from the bad guy, and how they go about getting what they want. I do love it when well laid out plans don't come to pass for the bad guy!
What I really liked, though, was as well as the Viking folklore, we got a paranormal element too! Mermaids, werewolves, light and dark elves. I loved the way it was all seamlessly meddled together!
A good read, but one I did struggle with. Some of that was the repetition, and some me (I have *stuff* going on!)
3 very good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 2 in the Valiant Vikings series. While not strictly necessary, I think it would be beneficial to read book one, Dragon of Denmark, before this one. It will give you a better view of this world, how it works and of the author's writing style.
I enjoyed book one, but for the repetitive descriptions of runes and things. That is why I found this a much more . . .difficult(?) . . .read.
The repeating of what runes are for, what the stones are for, and who did what and when takes up a huge portion of this book. I found myself skimming paragraphs just to get back to the story. I didn't feel I missed anything by doing so, either!
I did like that Elfi and Njord both have the majority voice. I loved that we hear again from the bad guy, and how they go about getting what they want. I do love it when well laid out plans don't come to pass for the bad guy!
What I really liked, though, was as well as the Viking folklore, we got a paranormal element too! Mermaids, werewolves, light and dark elves. I loved the way it was all seamlessly meddled together!
A good read, but one I did struggle with. Some of that was the repetition, and some me (I have *stuff* going on!)
3 very good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
The Marinated Meeple (1853 KP) rated Vikings in Tabletop Games
Sep 2, 2019
Auction Wheel (1 more)
deeper strategy than anticipated
Better than it should be considering you don't plunder pillage anything.
I really enjoyed my play of this one, we took it home and played it about 3 more times that night. It really is a fast economic based game. but the puzzle of the market bidding is fun. and trying to anticipate others moves is also fun. So far we have only played the basic rules, and not made our way to the advanced ones yet. But I'm glad I've added this to our collection.
All that said: don't expect to do viking things, there is no killing and pillaging, and raiding... your warriors defend, and don't attack... seems like a miss as far as theme goes.
All that said: don't expect to do viking things, there is no killing and pillaging, and raiding... your warriors defend, and don't attack... seems like a miss as far as theme goes.
David McK (3562 KP) rated King of the North (Fire Born #4) in Books
Oct 22, 2023
I'm never really sure what to make of Angus Donald's 'Fire born' series.
Of which this is the fourth.
Personally, I think I've always preferred his Outlaw Chronicles, followed by the Holcroft Blood trilogy, with these Viking-era bringing up the rear.
Having said that, it is what it is.
In this particular entry, Bjarki and his sister Tor end up involved in the little-known (and semi-legendary) Battle of Bravellir, initially on opposite sides of the Shield Wall.
I have to say, it's a battle that I have never heard of before ...
Anyway, the result is an OK read, but (as previously stated, and for my money) the characters and history are just not as interesting as those in the Outlaw Chronicles or in the Holcroft Blood series.
I'll still probably read any future entries, though.
Of which this is the fourth.
Personally, I think I've always preferred his Outlaw Chronicles, followed by the Holcroft Blood trilogy, with these Viking-era bringing up the rear.
Having said that, it is what it is.
In this particular entry, Bjarki and his sister Tor end up involved in the little-known (and semi-legendary) Battle of Bravellir, initially on opposite sides of the Shield Wall.
I have to say, it's a battle that I have never heard of before ...
Anyway, the result is an OK read, but (as previously stated, and for my money) the characters and history are just not as interesting as those in the Outlaw Chronicles or in the Holcroft Blood series.
I'll still probably read any future entries, though.
Darren (1599 KP) rated Viking (2016) in Movies
Jun 25, 2019
Story: Viking starts as three brothers rule different kingdoms under the Russia we follow the youngest Vladimir (Kozlovsky) who is trying to end the war between them after being exiled to the frozen land of Novgorod. Completing his quest, he will need to come across new enemies, while old enemies are waiting in the wings for his weaknesses to be exposed.
Thoughts on Viking
Characters – Vladimir is the youngster son of the king, he gets the weakest area to rule, but isn’t going to let that stop him taking control of the area, he proves to be a strong leader one that is fair and will look after his people. When it comes to the rest of the characters it was hard to figure out who to focus on, because as soon as one looked like they were going to be important, they seemed to get killed.
Performances – The performances suffer because of the issues with the characters not being given the focus they require in the film, it is too hard for the audience to know who they should be following in this film.
Story – The story seems to focus on Vladimir the youngest son of the rule of Russia, whom after his death gets given part of the land to defend, we watch his rise to try and claim his crown as the rule of Russia as he takes on enemies from all over the land including his own blood. The story telling process is difficult to keep up with as we do seem to meet group one get slightly invested in these character, but nope they get killed leaving us wondering just who we are meant to be supporting through the film.
Action/History/War – The action is plenty of battle sequences, each one getting bigger, bloodier and deadlier as the film unfolds. The history, well I don’t know how accurate any of it is, most of that would involve research and the war side of the film shows us the different strategies adopted during the 10th century.
Settings – The film shows us the settings that will keep us believing we are in the time the film is set, it keeps the battles feeling down and dirty which is how you would imagine them happening.
Scene of the Movie – The hiding escape.
That Moment That Annoyed Me – Too many characters introduced for nothing.
Final Thoughts – This is an overly complicated movie that is trying to tell a massive story only for it to end up not given enough time for most of the characters to develop or unfold.
Overall: Too long and dull
https://moviesreview101.com/2019/06/22/abc-film-challenge-world-cinema-v-viking-2016/
Thoughts on Viking
Characters – Vladimir is the youngster son of the king, he gets the weakest area to rule, but isn’t going to let that stop him taking control of the area, he proves to be a strong leader one that is fair and will look after his people. When it comes to the rest of the characters it was hard to figure out who to focus on, because as soon as one looked like they were going to be important, they seemed to get killed.
Performances – The performances suffer because of the issues with the characters not being given the focus they require in the film, it is too hard for the audience to know who they should be following in this film.
Story – The story seems to focus on Vladimir the youngest son of the rule of Russia, whom after his death gets given part of the land to defend, we watch his rise to try and claim his crown as the rule of Russia as he takes on enemies from all over the land including his own blood. The story telling process is difficult to keep up with as we do seem to meet group one get slightly invested in these character, but nope they get killed leaving us wondering just who we are meant to be supporting through the film.
Action/History/War – The action is plenty of battle sequences, each one getting bigger, bloodier and deadlier as the film unfolds. The history, well I don’t know how accurate any of it is, most of that would involve research and the war side of the film shows us the different strategies adopted during the 10th century.
Settings – The film shows us the settings that will keep us believing we are in the time the film is set, it keeps the battles feeling down and dirty which is how you would imagine them happening.
Scene of the Movie – The hiding escape.
That Moment That Annoyed Me – Too many characters introduced for nothing.
Final Thoughts – This is an overly complicated movie that is trying to tell a massive story only for it to end up not given enough time for most of the characters to develop or unfold.
Overall: Too long and dull
https://moviesreview101.com/2019/06/22/abc-film-challenge-world-cinema-v-viking-2016/
Ali A (82 KP) rated When We Were Vikings in Books
Mar 4, 2020
When We Were Vikings is about Zelda, a high functioning 21 year old diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome, who is a Viking enthusiast trying to figure out her life quest. Zelda lives with her brother Gert after both of their parents died when they were young. Gert and his on again/off again girlfriend Annie, whom Zelda calls AK47, make up Zelda's main tribe. Together, they try to figure out their legacies.
Andrew David MacDonald delivered an amazing story. I absolutely adored the character of Zelda. The way she loved Vikings and applied the Viking culture to make it through life's difficulties was endearing. I loved Zelda and I just wanted her to succeed. Her blunt, unembellished language was easy to read and refreshing. Whether it's telling off thugs or talking about sex and periods, Zelda says what she thinks.
Her brother Gert also tried to figure out how to not only live his life and figure the world out, but also tried to help Zelda figure hers out. He attempted to work with the cards he'd been dealt, but in all honesty, he seemed to constantly grab from the pile ones that just made life harder - he was always making messes that others were cleaning up after, even Zelda herself. I just wanted to sit him down and tell him to get it together and keep it together.
This book had a lot of concepts in it that worked for me. The characters are both quirky and realistic. It's endearing and heartwarming; it's full of love and hate. Some portions of the book made me laugh out loud while others made me want to slam the book shut out of frustration. It had some light themes but also some pretty dark themes. When We Were Vikings earned a spot on my Recommended Fiction List.
"...The point is you're willing to give it a try. That's what makes someone a legend."
Andrew David MacDonald delivered an amazing story. I absolutely adored the character of Zelda. The way she loved Vikings and applied the Viking culture to make it through life's difficulties was endearing. I loved Zelda and I just wanted her to succeed. Her blunt, unembellished language was easy to read and refreshing. Whether it's telling off thugs or talking about sex and periods, Zelda says what she thinks.
Her brother Gert also tried to figure out how to not only live his life and figure the world out, but also tried to help Zelda figure hers out. He attempted to work with the cards he'd been dealt, but in all honesty, he seemed to constantly grab from the pile ones that just made life harder - he was always making messes that others were cleaning up after, even Zelda herself. I just wanted to sit him down and tell him to get it together and keep it together.
This book had a lot of concepts in it that worked for me. The characters are both quirky and realistic. It's endearing and heartwarming; it's full of love and hate. Some portions of the book made me laugh out loud while others made me want to slam the book shut out of frustration. It had some light themes but also some pretty dark themes. When We Were Vikings earned a spot on my Recommended Fiction List.
"...The point is you're willing to give it a try. That's what makes someone a legend."
Debbiereadsbook (1444 KP) rated The Magic of Vanaheim (The Nine Worlds #1) in Books
Dec 19, 2024
Loved the Norse and Viking references!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarain, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Usually, I rehash the blurb, not gonna here, cos I just wanna jump straight in!
I LOVED this book!
What I loved most was how patient Talvi was with Hakon (I'm sorry, my keyboard won't do the special characters!) Talvi loved Hakon since he was a child, and now he had the frost warrior in his bed, he wasn't letting him go. Talvi waited, and watched, as Hakon settled into his new life. Waited while he found his footing, and realised that all those things his father said to him, were a lie. Hakon wasn't useless, or a waste of space! He was to be King with Talvi, he just needed to see that fact himself, before Hakon could give himself fully to Talvi.
I could see that betrayal coming a long way off, and while it's good to be proven right, it's still mighty painful for Talvi to realise where the threat really was.
I did NOT see the death of Hakon's father coming from where that did! But I think it was right it came from that person, rather than Hakon.
I loved all the Viking and Norse references. Some were recognisable, some not so. But those not so ones, were what really made this book.
And now, I have questions! Where is Talvi's brother? And his mother's? Will Hakon's sister get a story? But the biggest question is just what is going on with Talvi's uncle and the thrall??
I hope these are answered in future books! I look forward to getting my hands on them!
Saga Nansen is relatively new to the scene, but they have jumped in and landed with a mighty splash in this genre, please keep them coming!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Usually, I rehash the blurb, not gonna here, cos I just wanna jump straight in!
I LOVED this book!
What I loved most was how patient Talvi was with Hakon (I'm sorry, my keyboard won't do the special characters!) Talvi loved Hakon since he was a child, and now he had the frost warrior in his bed, he wasn't letting him go. Talvi waited, and watched, as Hakon settled into his new life. Waited while he found his footing, and realised that all those things his father said to him, were a lie. Hakon wasn't useless, or a waste of space! He was to be King with Talvi, he just needed to see that fact himself, before Hakon could give himself fully to Talvi.
I could see that betrayal coming a long way off, and while it's good to be proven right, it's still mighty painful for Talvi to realise where the threat really was.
I did NOT see the death of Hakon's father coming from where that did! But I think it was right it came from that person, rather than Hakon.
I loved all the Viking and Norse references. Some were recognisable, some not so. But those not so ones, were what really made this book.
And now, I have questions! Where is Talvi's brother? And his mother's? Will Hakon's sister get a story? But the biggest question is just what is going on with Talvi's uncle and the thrall??
I hope these are answered in future books! I look forward to getting my hands on them!
Saga Nansen is relatively new to the scene, but they have jumped in and landed with a mighty splash in this genre, please keep them coming!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated How to Twist a Dragon's Tale in Books
Apr 27, 2018
I am a huge fan of Cressida Cowell. She's on my Author Watch list! I think she's brilliant. This is the fifth book in the How To Train Your Dragon series, and it was just as clever and hilarious as the other ones. The writing is an interesting combination of poetic and satirical, with just a twinge of sarcasm. The characters are so full of life that I feel like they're my friends. The funny parts are hilarious, and the dramatic parts literally sent shivers down my spine. Only Cressida Cowell can make a fart joke and then make you want to cry two seconds later. Also. The audiobooks are narrated by David Tennant. So there's that. If you haven't listened or read them yet, do so immediately. I guarantee you'll want to be a viking within the first chapter. Appropriate for all ages - See more at: http://www.thelifeandlies.com/2016/07/book-review-how-to-twist-dragons-tail.html#sthash.sjH1e1ur.dpuf
ClareR (5884 KP) rated Open Water in Books
Mar 6, 2021
This exquisitely written novella is so much more than a story about a relationship between a photographer and a dancer. It looks at race and the exhaustion of being a young black Londoner: how racism, police brutality and the need to be constantly alert can be psychologically damaging and impact on relationships. Open Water is a story about love, heartbreak, but ultimately there IS hope. I cant believe that so much has been put in to so few pages, and I finished feeling that I’d read a book of twice the length (in a good way!). Every word feels carefully considered - its just beautiful. Poetry written in prose form.
I have to admit, most of the references to music went over my head, but this didn’t bother me or lessen my enjoyment. In fact, it sent me in the direction of Spotify and caused raised eyebrows from the teenaged sons 🤷🏼♀️
Many thanks to Viking for providing me with a copy of this stunning book via NetGalley.
I have to admit, most of the references to music went over my head, but this didn’t bother me or lessen my enjoyment. In fact, it sent me in the direction of Spotify and caused raised eyebrows from the teenaged sons 🤷🏼♀️
Many thanks to Viking for providing me with a copy of this stunning book via NetGalley.
Lindsay (1760 KP) rated Tides (Time of Myths: Shapeshifter Sagas Book 2) in Books
Sep 8, 2017
Leif is on a Viking ship and needs to do the job of getting men on his father's ship. They are to do their job and command and listen to Regina. Leif is having enough of being used by his father. His father really does not care or even think of his boy as his son.
Leif picks up two or at least one healers. He thinks it a boy named Aiden. Will he find out the secret that Aiden or so named? Eilish is now trying to keep a secret but will they find out or will it keep. Leif has to decide to help or betray the young man as he plays. Will Leif stand up to his father?
Leif now has to protect two of this very good friends. Leif needs to face the truth and be able to live his life. Will Regina beat Leif or will Leif save his love and friend? You need to read to find out and some of the many surprises. Leif has two secrets that are quite something that you will want to find out for yourself.
Leif picks up two or at least one healers. He thinks it a boy named Aiden. Will he find out the secret that Aiden or so named? Eilish is now trying to keep a secret but will they find out or will it keep. Leif has to decide to help or betray the young man as he plays. Will Leif stand up to his father?
Leif now has to protect two of this very good friends. Leif needs to face the truth and be able to live his life. Will Regina beat Leif or will Leif save his love and friend? You need to read to find out and some of the many surprises. Leif has two secrets that are quite something that you will want to find out for yourself.