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Strongbow Saga #3
The Road to Vengeance: The Strongbow Saga
In this third installment of the Strongbow Saga series, the Danish attack on Western Frankia continues. But as the invading Danes push deeper into the heartland of the Frankish kingdom, the mighty Frankish army, which far outnumbers them, gathers.The Strongbow Saga is an epic tale of one man’s unstoppable quest for justice and vengeance that carries him across the 9th century world of the Vikings. In The Road to Vengeance , Halfdan continues to gain experience, and win renown, as a warrior. But he will have to survive many dangers, from the Franks as well as from those within the Danish army who seek his death, in order to fulfill his vow of vengeance.
300 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
77 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
About the author
Judson Roberts
10 books119 followersFascinated since childhood with the Vikings, and a lover his entire life of captivating stories, Judson Roberts decided in 1999 to attempt to combine these interests and write a novel set within the world of the Vikings. Two years and countless hours of research later, the Strongbow Saga, a historical fiction series for adult and teen readers, was born.
Over his long and varied career, Judson Roberts has been a police officer, federal agent, organized crime prosecutor, and private investigator. He is also a distant descendant of Rollo, also known as Rolf or Hrolf, the Viking leader who in 911 AD entered into a treaty with the King of the Western Franks and was granted the lands located around the mouth of the Seine River which eventually became known as Normandy, after the Northmen who settled there. He currently lives in Houston, Texas, where he is working on the next volume in the Strongbow Saga series.
Over his long and varied career, Judson Roberts has been a police officer, federal agent, organized crime prosecutor, and private investigator. He is also a distant descendant of Rollo, also known as Rolf or Hrolf, the Viking leader who in 911 AD entered into a treaty with the King of the Western Franks and was granted the lands located around the mouth of the Seine River which eventually became known as Normandy, after the Northmen who settled there. He currently lives in Houston, Texas, where he is working on the next volume in the Strongbow Saga series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
December 13, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed the third book of this series The Road to Vengeance.
In this book, the invasion by the Danes into the land of the Franks stops being a series looting raids and becomes more serious organized warfare. This is a new experience for Halfdan especially having to fight the highly skilled horse warriors the Bretons. After ransoming his captive Genevieve back to her father, Halfdan misses the young woman that he realizes was more than just a captive to him. But alas, she is back at her convent in Paris until a plan is hatched by the Vikings to attack Paris.
The book and story once again has a rich cast of characters. The author's description of the countryside is also well developed. I listened to the audio book and Jeff Hays does an outstanding job with story. The only part of the audio I was a little bothered with is the introduction music. That doesn't last for more than 30 seconds or so.
Another great book in this series with superbly exciting finish. On to the last and final book of this fun series.
In this book, the invasion by the Danes into the land of the Franks stops being a series looting raids and becomes more serious organized warfare. This is a new experience for Halfdan especially having to fight the highly skilled horse warriors the Bretons. After ransoming his captive Genevieve back to her father, Halfdan misses the young woman that he realizes was more than just a captive to him. But alas, she is back at her convent in Paris until a plan is hatched by the Vikings to attack Paris.
The book and story once again has a rich cast of characters. The author's description of the countryside is also well developed. I listened to the audio book and Jeff Hays does an outstanding job with story. The only part of the audio I was a little bothered with is the introduction music. That doesn't last for more than 30 seconds or so.
Another great book in this series with superbly exciting finish. On to the last and final book of this fun series.
May 12, 2008
Reviewed by The Compulsive Reader for TeensReadToo.com
Halfdan's quest for revenge continues in the third book of the riveting and highly entertaining STRONGBOW SAGA.
He returns to his ship and captain with his prisoner, Genevieve. But he finds it difficult to protect her while at the same time fending off attacks from Toke's men.
THE ROAD TO VENGEANCE is a vivid, honest portrayal of the trials and tribulations of life in the 9th-century, and it delivers an unflinching look at the many realties of that time period.
This is one high-spirited adventure novel that you won't soon forget.
Halfdan's quest for revenge continues in the third book of the riveting and highly entertaining STRONGBOW SAGA.
He returns to his ship and captain with his prisoner, Genevieve. But he finds it difficult to protect her while at the same time fending off attacks from Toke's men.
THE ROAD TO VENGEANCE is a vivid, honest portrayal of the trials and tribulations of life in the 9th-century, and it delivers an unflinching look at the many realties of that time period.
This is one high-spirited adventure novel that you won't soon forget.
December 9, 2009
I ♥ Halfdan! Though sometime he can be very fierce and terrifying when fighting and at parts the book is quiet gruesome, but that is the way of
vikings, so I understand. I love that Halfdan cares about his honor. My ancestors are from Denmark and Sweden though I doubt any of them were vikings. At first I was kind of let down by the ways of the Danes. They are a violent are gruesome people, but soon I started to understand why they act the way they do. I love Halfdan because without him my views on the Danes would probably be destroyed and I wouldn't have had much respect for them during the 180's. Halfdan though cared about his honor, I've never thought much of honor until now. Most people mistakingly call pride "honor." Halfdan luckily is not among them. Even though I don't agree with his way of living and beliefs I can respect it. Normally I am against vengeance, but with him and the way of the Danes I can see why it is necessary.
vikings, so I understand. I love that Halfdan cares about his honor. My ancestors are from Denmark and Sweden though I doubt any of them were vikings. At first I was kind of let down by the ways of the Danes. They are a violent are gruesome people, but soon I started to understand why they act the way they do. I love Halfdan because without him my views on the Danes would probably be destroyed and I wouldn't have had much respect for them during the 180's. Halfdan though cared about his honor, I've never thought much of honor until now. Most people mistakingly call pride "honor." Halfdan luckily is not among them. Even though I don't agree with his way of living and beliefs I can respect it. Normally I am against vengeance, but with him and the way of the Danes I can see why it is necessary.
January 25, 2021
3.75 stars. Continuing Halfdan’s journey with his war tribe into Frankia. This book picks up right where Dragons From the Sea left off, and it’s another great installment of the Strongbow Saga. While not as compelling as the first two books, this one adds on to Halfdan’s warrior experience with great historical battles between the Vikings and the Francs. They eventually sail into Paris, which was very interesting to visualize. Once again, Halfdan either has extremely good luck (from the Gods) or main character syndrome. He excels at everything he tries and garners favor for his personal revenge quest. His revenge quest takes a slight detour during this adventure, but by the end of the book he does conclude one matter and is able to focus on his main quest again. I am joyfully continuing on to the last installment of the Strongbow Saga.
May 12, 2017
I swear this series is so addicting, and it does NOT follow any expected pattern, every single event is well planed and put with precise fitting, I am not well aware of the Scandinavian history, but I am there ,with every attack and every scene I can well see it .and I love how Halfdan is not an angel, he is a strange combination , an honest honorable boy who can shed blood and have his own demons whispering to him sometimes , and man he does have the luck of the devil, there was one duel at the end of the book, and I wandered how within almost ten pages it will end, will be it a cliffhanger?, but the book didn't disappoint, it tied the last knot in this one, very elegant and with the same neatness , it didn't rush nor bore with the fight.
I think if I had the last book I would have started immediately but now I have to order it and wait.
I think if I had the last book I would have started immediately but now I have to order it and wait.
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April 22, 2021As readers, we can see that sometimes when authors write sequels it is difficult to sustain the level of excitement that initially engaged us. This is not so in the case of Judson Roberts and The Strongbow Saga. The author provides a seamless transition between the three books without skipping a beat.
September 13, 2017
As with the second book in this series this one was better yet. The sacking of Paris by Vikings. Always fun! The consummation of a forbidden relationship. Always a good thing. The death of particular individuals who totally deserved it. More fun! Now on to the fourth and last book!
March 1, 2018
Constant action and interesting scenarios, conflicts, and resolutions set in the woods in times of old.
October 30, 2019
Very enjoyable book
February 28, 2020
Great series with lots of action
dnf
March 4, 2026DNF @ Ch. 8. It's not a bad book. I'll pick up the series again if book 5 ever comes out.
February 3, 2014
I should have re-read the other two books before I launched into this one. I must sadly confess that while I remembered most of the events from the others, it took me over half of the book to recall who was who. But that may not be my fault. When you have so many Viking characters whose personalities blend into one, and whose names are so bloody similar (I am complaining at three in particular: Tore, Torvald, and Toke), I don't think reading the books one after the other would have helped much anyway. But, to give Mr. Roberts credit, his Vikings have more personality than most, and Halfdan is fairly likable.
I have no complaint against the storyline - it has been good ever since the beginning. And the battle sequences aren't horrible to read, though certainly not masterpieces. One thing that usually irritates me about Viking stories is it is really hard to find a likable character. They are Vikings, and the common picture of Vikings is plundering, killing, drinking, and liking women a bit too much. Not an entirely inaccurate portrayal, from all historical accounts, but these qualities does make it hard to accept a Viking as a main character/hero. Halfdan, though, does his best to be good. He's out for revenge - and for a completely legitimate reason -, so he always tries to keep his head clear by not drinking nearly as much as his comrades. He does raid and kill, and he doesn't like it - he doesn't see his killings as a good aspect of his character, and when they invade Frankia, he isn't too happy, because he doesn't like killing people with whom he has no quarrel with. And when he claims a woman as a captive, he swears to see that no harm comes to her, nor does he ever harm a woman's honor when he has ample chance to.
Which brings me to content. I read the Strongbow Saga with some nervousness because while Judson Roberts has never been explicit, he doesn't shy away from the blunt truth that invaders raped women. I was worried when Halfdan captured Genevieve in Dragons from the Sea. I saw there being serious trouble with her and the other Danes, and I didn't doubt that Judson Roberts would devote some time to relating such incidents. Never fear, Readers - nothing happens. And while there are plenty of alludements to taking pleasure in the opposite gender, it never goes beyond alludements. Genevieve does tell Halfdan about how a man she was betrothed to tried to have his way with her before their wedding, but it doesn't go anywhere, and there are no physical details. And then there is a scene between Halfdan and Genevieve, which irritated me to no end because I could now no longer respect them. Much to my surprise, though, there are no explicit details. In fact, Mr. Roberts never actually says (though it is quite plain what happened) what passed between them.
So, a note for the Strongbow Saga: there are no explicit details, but such things are definitely mentioned. And while the gore certainly isn't as detailed as in a Michael Cadnum book or even The Adventures of a Young Sailor trilogy, Judson Roberts doesn't skip over where and how much the blood is gushing out. But the storyline is good and it is quite clear that the Author has done his historical research. For once, other than in Rosemary Sutcliff's books, I feel like I'm reading about authentic Vikings.
I look forward to the sequel (whenever that is released).
I have no complaint against the storyline - it has been good ever since the beginning. And the battle sequences aren't horrible to read, though certainly not masterpieces. One thing that usually irritates me about Viking stories is it is really hard to find a likable character. They are Vikings, and the common picture of Vikings is plundering, killing, drinking, and liking women a bit too much. Not an entirely inaccurate portrayal, from all historical accounts, but these qualities does make it hard to accept a Viking as a main character/hero. Halfdan, though, does his best to be good. He's out for revenge - and for a completely legitimate reason -, so he always tries to keep his head clear by not drinking nearly as much as his comrades. He does raid and kill, and he doesn't like it - he doesn't see his killings as a good aspect of his character, and when they invade Frankia, he isn't too happy, because he doesn't like killing people with whom he has no quarrel with. And when he claims a woman as a captive, he swears to see that no harm comes to her, nor does he ever harm a woman's honor when he has ample chance to.
Which brings me to content. I read the Strongbow Saga with some nervousness because while Judson Roberts has never been explicit, he doesn't shy away from the blunt truth that invaders raped women. I was worried when Halfdan captured Genevieve in Dragons from the Sea. I saw there being serious trouble with her and the other Danes, and I didn't doubt that Judson Roberts would devote some time to relating such incidents. Never fear, Readers - nothing happens. And while there are plenty of alludements to taking pleasure in the opposite gender, it never goes beyond alludements. Genevieve does tell Halfdan about how a man she was betrothed to tried to have his way with her before their wedding, but it doesn't go anywhere, and there are no physical details. And then there is a scene between Halfdan and Genevieve, which irritated me to no end because I could now no longer respect them. Much to my surprise, though, there are no explicit details. In fact, Mr. Roberts never actually says (though it is quite plain what happened) what passed between them.
So, a note for the Strongbow Saga: there are no explicit details, but such things are definitely mentioned. And while the gore certainly isn't as detailed as in a Michael Cadnum book or even The Adventures of a Young Sailor trilogy, Judson Roberts doesn't skip over where and how much the blood is gushing out. But the storyline is good and it is quite clear that the Author has done his historical research. For once, other than in Rosemary Sutcliff's books, I feel like I'm reading about authentic Vikings.
I look forward to the sequel (whenever that is released).
March 27, 2009
I still think it's strange that good fortune should shine so much on the character who has pledged his life to avenge the death of his brother. He's not just out to kill one man, but the one man in addition to all those who helped do the evil deed. It's a different view of the world that the Northmen share that they trust fate and do not understand how their enemies worship a god that has been dead for hundreds of years. Even the title "The Road to Vengeance" supports the idea that Halfdan is on a glorious and righteous quest. What happens in reality is that vengeance and hate eat a man alive, especially when plans are thwarted. The author succeeds in making us believe that Toke must die for the crimes he committed. In real life, I'm glad I don't have to judge or take action on those who choose evil over good. When I read, however, I'm longing for the confrontation. Halfdan is lead by his close attention to his gutt feelings and strong grip on honor. He's not enjoying the killing, so we hope he'll survive the bad dreams he is having. I like Halfdan — he's like Jason Bourne or Jack Bauer — unstoppable. That part of the book is predictable because without him there will be no more books. Still, I was worried for him wondering how he would get out of each predicament when the odds always seem stacked against him. In this book, two things threaten to undo him... an epic battle and the daughter of a count who is also a nun.
I actually stopped and wondered if I should let Sarah read this one because of how the nun recognizes what she is about to do is sin and then says, "but I don't care" while dropping her clothing. The chapter ends there without any details whatsoever. Then I remembered that Sarah has already read this book before me, so now I have to talk with her and make sure she understands that the nun broke covenants and it's a bad thing even though we want the nun and Halfdan to be together. I wondered where the author could go with this, and I predict that Halfdan will either repeat the history his parents lived, or the nun will stay a nun. Either way, Halfdan will win. He's the hero.
As for the epic battle, I appreciate that these books are historical fiction. These events have actually happened with a few liberties to help the story along. I like the historical notes given at the end.
What I liked most about this book is how it brings me closer to the confrontation I am anticipating. I feel like the author is milking it for all its worth, but appreciate that it is in keeping with how everything happens in the story... it takes time to traverse a river or receive a message by horseback. Things take time. It's a good thing that these books are quick reads.
What I disliked most about this book is that Halfdan does not worry for his sister at all. I guess he has had no choice but to go on this war campaign, but I suspect that when he finally reaches his father's home there will be a lot more for Toke to answer for.
I actually stopped and wondered if I should let Sarah read this one because of how the nun recognizes what she is about to do is sin and then says, "but I don't care" while dropping her clothing. The chapter ends there without any details whatsoever. Then I remembered that Sarah has already read this book before me, so now I have to talk with her and make sure she understands that the nun broke covenants and it's a bad thing even though we want the nun and Halfdan to be together. I wondered where the author could go with this, and I predict that Halfdan will either repeat the history his parents lived, or the nun will stay a nun. Either way, Halfdan will win. He's the hero.
As for the epic battle, I appreciate that these books are historical fiction. These events have actually happened with a few liberties to help the story along. I like the historical notes given at the end.
What I liked most about this book is how it brings me closer to the confrontation I am anticipating. I feel like the author is milking it for all its worth, but appreciate that it is in keeping with how everything happens in the story... it takes time to traverse a river or receive a message by horseback. Things take time. It's a good thing that these books are quick reads.
What I disliked most about this book is that Halfdan does not worry for his sister at all. I guess he has had no choice but to go on this war campaign, but I suspect that when he finally reaches his father's home there will be a lot more for Toke to answer for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2010
Judson Roberts does it again! I loved this volume in the Strongbow Saga! I really hope this series continues and that we hear much more about Halfdan.
Halfdan just escapes death at Frankish hands when Ivar arrives to help Halfdan escape with his prisoner Genieve. Upon returning to Ruda and the Viking encampment, Halfdan delivers his intelligence and sits back and awaits the call to move on Paris. Meanwhile he is still entrusted with protecting Wulf and his family and even decides to keep Genieve to quartered there. Genieve was a rare catch. As a prisoner she will be worth a lot of silver as her father is the Count of Paris and a number of other cities. Halfdan has sworn not to "damage" her as that would bring her value down. Genieve is still terrified of Halfdan, but greatly relieved. As time progresses the two become more at ease with each other (partly Stockholm Syndrome?). After Genieve is ransomed back to her father, the Danish army marches on Paris and surprisingly takes it!
Halfdan takes it upon himself to find Genieve's abbey so that he can protect her (and the other nuns) from other Vikings. Genieve is shocked at first, but over time their friendship grows and mutual understanding leads to a sort of love.
While the sort-of-odd love story is a nice addition to this volume (and Roberts makes it totally plausible and it doesn't come off as creepy or weird, like it should), much much more of the story is on Halfdan's continual development as a warrior and his maturing into a man. He must still complete his blood-debt and as men from Toke's ship cross his path, he finds ways to overcome them with the help of Einar, Torvald, and many others.
You feel for Halfdan and he is a character you can relate (okay, probably not his exact actions, but definitly the motives behind them) and cheer on at every turn. Maybe that's why the love story works so well....
Halfdan just escapes death at Frankish hands when Ivar arrives to help Halfdan escape with his prisoner Genieve. Upon returning to Ruda and the Viking encampment, Halfdan delivers his intelligence and sits back and awaits the call to move on Paris. Meanwhile he is still entrusted with protecting Wulf and his family and even decides to keep Genieve to quartered there. Genieve was a rare catch. As a prisoner she will be worth a lot of silver as her father is the Count of Paris and a number of other cities. Halfdan has sworn not to "damage" her as that would bring her value down. Genieve is still terrified of Halfdan, but greatly relieved. As time progresses the two become more at ease with each other (partly Stockholm Syndrome?). After Genieve is ransomed back to her father, the Danish army marches on Paris and surprisingly takes it!
Halfdan takes it upon himself to find Genieve's abbey so that he can protect her (and the other nuns) from other Vikings. Genieve is shocked at first, but over time their friendship grows and mutual understanding leads to a sort of love.
While the sort-of-odd love story is a nice addition to this volume (and Roberts makes it totally plausible and it doesn't come off as creepy or weird, like it should), much much more of the story is on Halfdan's continual development as a warrior and his maturing into a man. He must still complete his blood-debt and as men from Toke's ship cross his path, he finds ways to overcome them with the help of Einar, Torvald, and many others.
You feel for Halfdan and he is a character you can relate (okay, probably not his exact actions, but definitly the motives behind them) and cheer on at every turn. Maybe that's why the love story works so well....
April 22, 2008
I got to read this an ARC. Advanced Readers Copy, for those of you who don't know what that means.
I'm not sure if I can give a completely fair review of this book, since I haven't read the prequels to it. That being said, I will begin my review.
This book started like it was continuing where the last book ended. This made things confusing and awkward, since I didn't know what was going on for about 50 pages. I forced myself to keep reading, and by page 50 things started to be explained. But not perfectly.
This book is set in the middle of a Viking raid on Frankia, A.D 845. What was helpful to this book was the character list and glossary in the back of the book. Without it, I probably would have been lost even more then I was. Halfdan, the protagonist, is seeking revenge for the murder of his half-brother. Gathering from this book, I'm guessing honor and vengeances was important to the Vikings.
There is a romance, or I think so. It was kind of rush, and not detailed enough, and the conclusion was unsatisfying. But seeing as this book ended like there is going to be another book, hopefully this will be written better in the future.
Another things is, and again I didn't read the first two books so this might be why, but I didn't feel very connected with the characters. I didn't really know Halfdan.
So, my advice to you would be to read the prequels first, you might have a better experience than I did. It was a good tale, with potential.
I'm not sure if I can give a completely fair review of this book, since I haven't read the prequels to it. That being said, I will begin my review.
This book started like it was continuing where the last book ended. This made things confusing and awkward, since I didn't know what was going on for about 50 pages. I forced myself to keep reading, and by page 50 things started to be explained. But not perfectly.
This book is set in the middle of a Viking raid on Frankia, A.D 845. What was helpful to this book was the character list and glossary in the back of the book. Without it, I probably would have been lost even more then I was. Halfdan, the protagonist, is seeking revenge for the murder of his half-brother. Gathering from this book, I'm guessing honor and vengeances was important to the Vikings.
There is a romance, or I think so. It was kind of rush, and not detailed enough, and the conclusion was unsatisfying. But seeing as this book ended like there is going to be another book, hopefully this will be written better in the future.
Another things is, and again I didn't read the first two books so this might be why, but I didn't feel very connected with the characters. I didn't really know Halfdan.
So, my advice to you would be to read the prequels first, you might have a better experience than I did. It was a good tale, with potential.
June 5, 2011
Excellent historical fiction with a solid base on what life was like for most people during the time of Viking invasions (before 1000 AD). Lots of action, violence and bloodshed, so if that's not your favorite fare, this may not be for you. For those mature readers (I recommend for 8th grade and up) who can handle that, this is well written with phenomenal character development. Be ready -- Roberts has no problem killing off characters you've come to like.
Book 3: Road to Vengeance -- Halfdan has a prisoner to ransom back to the Franks: Genevieve, the daughter of a high-ranking aristocrat. Her story and Halfdan's connect even after he successfully ransoms her back to her family for a small fortune (with the help of Jarl Hastein). The Vikings sack Paris and await a bribe from the Frankish king to leave the country, and Halfdan bides his time waiting for his opportunity to go up against one of the men from his foster brother's crew who murdered Harald. More amazing battle scenes and subtle political maneuvers between kings, jarls and warriors.
Book 3: Road to Vengeance -- Halfdan has a prisoner to ransom back to the Franks: Genevieve, the daughter of a high-ranking aristocrat. Her story and Halfdan's connect even after he successfully ransoms her back to her family for a small fortune (with the help of Jarl Hastein). The Vikings sack Paris and await a bribe from the Frankish king to leave the country, and Halfdan bides his time waiting for his opportunity to go up against one of the men from his foster brother's crew who murdered Harald. More amazing battle scenes and subtle political maneuvers between kings, jarls and warriors.
February 25, 2011
This is the third volumne in the Strongbow series by Judson Roberts. Halfdan, son of a Viking chiefton and an Irisih Princess (captured during a viking raid), has joined a Viking invasion of Frankia (France). Because of his forestry skills and prowess with a bow, he is sent inland alone from Rouens to scout the location of the Frankish army. En route, he captures the daughter of a high-ranking Frankish Count to hold for ransom. After the price is paid, she is returned to her father. Though her captor, she regards him as a good man and a man of honor. After her ransom, battles between the Vikings and the Franks ensue. They are descriptively depicted in terms of how warfare occurred at the time. Roberts is a master storyteller. It is not great literature in terms of composition, but to me it is a thrilling story and captured my attention throughout. Perhaps I am drawn to the saga in part, due to my Danish ancestry. Easy reading.
April 17, 2013
This was a book that I had to read. Historical fiction about the Vikings - that is a duh. This was the third in a young adult trilogy. I read the first book probably 5 years ago and the second immediately after. At the time book three wasn't out so I lost track of the series. I came across book three a couple weeks ago and had to download it immediately.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I did not remember the details of the first two but I remembered as I read and it wasn't too complex where you would need to re-read the previous before finishing the series. It was a very enjoyable series. It was set during the viking raids on France - specifically when Paris was looted. I enjoyed the descriptions of France from a viking perspective and thought the author did a good job with viking cultural descriptions.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I did not remember the details of the first two but I remembered as I read and it wasn't too complex where you would need to re-read the previous before finishing the series. It was a very enjoyable series. It was set during the viking raids on France - specifically when Paris was looted. I enjoyed the descriptions of France from a viking perspective and thought the author did a good job with viking cultural descriptions.
October 11, 2011
Viking lovers, this is the book for you. Sailing. Fighting. Pillaging. Swords, battleaxes and longbows. Ahhh. A rousing adventurous "end" to the Strongbow Saga. But it's not really the end. Author Judson Roberts is currently working on the final 2 books of this series, which is great because by the last page of The Road to Vengeance, not all the loose ends are tied up.
Halfdan is truly a warrior now. His slave roots keep him compassionate toward others, but honestly, he's not a thrall anymore. He's a fighting machine.
I would've liked to have seen much more of Genevieve and Halfdan's relationship. It felt abrupt and a tad bit shallow, especially on Halfdan's behalf. Hopefully their relationship will develop more in future stories.
And oh yes, I will definitely be reading those editions yet to come.
Halfdan is truly a warrior now. His slave roots keep him compassionate toward others, but honestly, he's not a thrall anymore. He's a fighting machine.
I would've liked to have seen much more of Genevieve and Halfdan's relationship. It felt abrupt and a tad bit shallow, especially on Halfdan's behalf. Hopefully their relationship will develop more in future stories.
And oh yes, I will definitely be reading those editions yet to come.
August 12, 2011
I couldn’t help myself. After finishing book 2 in this series, I had to pick this one up fairly quickly. The story is just that well told - you don’t want them to end.
I’ve raved about this series in two other reviews of them I did. If you’re the parent of a teenage boy, I’d highly recommend you pick these up and leave them around where he might pick them up. If your a male that once was a teenage boy, and still enjoy adventure stories - especially if you also like historical fiction - you should pick these up.
I will say I think the ending of this one wasn’t as well done as the ending of the last one. His next one will be published independently himself, and I’m looking forward to getting hold of it when it’s out.
I’ve raved about this series in two other reviews of them I did. If you’re the parent of a teenage boy, I’d highly recommend you pick these up and leave them around where he might pick them up. If your a male that once was a teenage boy, and still enjoy adventure stories - especially if you also like historical fiction - you should pick these up.
I will say I think the ending of this one wasn’t as well done as the ending of the last one. His next one will be published independently himself, and I’m looking forward to getting hold of it when it’s out.
January 30, 2012
My Review: Despite the tween-esque advertisement of this series, The Strongbow Saga has actually been quite an entertaining read— even as an adult (or so my driver’s license says). In the third book, The Road to Vengeance, war is finally waged between the Danes and the Franks and, unsurprisingly, Halfdan fights for his people, the oath he has sworn to avenge his brother’s death, and ultimately, for his life.
While bigger and better books always await, I must admit— I am a little bit sad to set this series aside! I have no idea whether a fourth book is written or planned, but should another volume of Halfdan’s story be published, I’ll be happy to pick up where his journey left off.
While bigger and better books always await, I must admit— I am a little bit sad to set this series aside! I have no idea whether a fourth book is written or planned, but should another volume of Halfdan’s story be published, I’ll be happy to pick up where his journey left off.
May 4, 2014
3.5 to 4 stars. Like the other Strongbow books this is an exciting and often gripping tale that rarely stops. However, also like the other books I continued to find the characters read a bit flat and the dialogue still a little obvious. Although the prose itself fails to transport, the strength of the story successfully paints a vivid image of the day and age. The author also does an excellent job linking his story to real events (interesting to read author's note at end of book #3). I have now read all 4 books in the saga in a very short period of time (they read quickly), book 3 is so far my favorite and I am now eagerly awaiting book 5.
June 1, 2016
I am enjoying the heck out of this series. This is the third book, and introduces a love element that is entirely sweet and fascinating, since they're from such different backgrounds. Instead of the typical romance between a noble and a commoner, this is between a remorseless warrior and pious nun. And the overarching heroic revenge tale takes a stride forward.
Historic fiction isn't always my bag of tea, since it can be dry and heavy-handed, but this series has great character development and well-integrated research. If you want to read about vikings, make this high on your 'to read' pile.
Historic fiction isn't always my bag of tea, since it can be dry and heavy-handed, but this series has great character development and well-integrated research. If you want to read about vikings, make this high on your 'to read' pile.
February 8, 2017
Brilliantly imagined Viking world, with a wonderful character in the fierce ex-slave Halfdan. Battle scenes are so tense and action packed I forget I'm reading a book. Famous Viking heroes are here too, Ragnar Lothbrok and Bjorn Ironsides, as well as raiding and Viking Gods and sea sagas and sudden friendships and honour and betrayals and treachery. Complete immersion.
April 8, 2013
Somehow I thought this was a trilogy, so was a bit annoyed when I got to the end of this book and found there was clearly a lot more to go. Ah well, not the author's fault. A lot has improved here from the earlier books, and this one is a lot of fun. Plenty violent, and the main hero retains some of the same problems he had in earlier books (good at everything, it gets a little old), but I enjoyed it.
June 23, 2016
Strongbow!
Strongbow! A teenage Dane with a true heart, a tall order of whoop-ass, and a fate favored by the Norns. Young Halfdan's prodigious skill and luck propel his quest for honor through feat after feat of derring-do. As sensational as his exploits are, all of the events in the book are plausible and excitingly epochal. I'm sure this guy's gonna continue crushing everything in the way of his vengeance in a way that entertains me greatly.
Strongbow! A teenage Dane with a true heart, a tall order of whoop-ass, and a fate favored by the Norns. Young Halfdan's prodigious skill and luck propel his quest for honor through feat after feat of derring-do. As sensational as his exploits are, all of the events in the book are plausible and excitingly epochal. I'm sure this guy's gonna continue crushing everything in the way of his vengeance in a way that entertains me greatly.
September 10, 2019
This book really delves into the relationship of Halfdan and Genevieve, when he realizes she was more than a prisoner of war to him. One of my favorite parts of the previous book was this odd love/hate relationship between the two. This book was an amazing addition to the series and it again keeps the series on it's feet and raises it to high standards. Once again it is amazingly historically accurate and the different soldiers and battle tactics are shown through this book.
September 6, 2012
The way it ends with Hastein saying "It is done." and then Halfdan replying "No. But it is begun." just makes me think that there is going to be another one. But this book was published in 2008, so it worries me tat another hasn't come out yet. I hope there is another one, but doubt it with the time difference.
February 5, 2009
I thoroughly enjoyed this installment of The Strongbow Saga. This is the book where he actually is dubbed Strongbow. This book is all about war and raiding against the French. Blood thirsty Vikings rule in this book. Great reading!
May 8, 2010
This book was as good as the first two in the series.
I can't really remember everything that happened at this point, but it was eventful, fast moving, and over all exciting.
I'm still waiting for the fourth book in the series.
I can't really remember everything that happened at this point, but it was eventful, fast moving, and over all exciting.
I'm still waiting for the fourth book in the series.
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