The Swan's Road

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Book Review:

 


“The prow of our longship broke the waves, the salt spray stinging my eyes. My legs bent, and my feet shifting naturally at the rise and fall of the sea. Always, it was the same, when the unfurling sail caught the wind and the ship surged forward. Like when you put heels to horse and she runs. The same. My spirits rising.”

So begins “The Swan’s Road”, first in the four part “Atheling Chronicles” by local author Garth Pettersen; a rollicking robust medieval adventure complete with romance, political intrigue, camaraderie, violence, and honor. This is Pettersen’s first novel and what a gem it is. I found it an invigorating and satisfying read, similar in feel to “The Three Musketeers”.

The tale follows the perilous journey of Prince Harald of Engla-long and Scandinavia to Rome where he and his father King Cnute seek the assistance of the King Conrad against the scheming Duke of Normandy, Robert the Devil who plans to usurp Cnute’s kingdom and end his life. Along the way Harald proves his mettle, winning the trust and loyalty of his companions, foiling his enemy’s nefarious plot, and rescuing the love of his life from kidnapping and a marriage against her will. The making of a true hero. What could be a more satisfying read than that?

Recommendation – if you’re in the mood for a rip-roaring adventure that leaves you feeling well satisfied, this book is for you.

Mr. Wedel

 

Author – Garth Pettersen

Publishing – Tirgearr Publishing, Ireland, 2024

Genre – Historical Fiction

Pages - 328

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