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Sebastian's Way: The Pathfinder
In a dark age of unending war and violence, one young warrior opposes a mighty king to forge a new path to peace…
During the savage Frankish-Saxon wars, the moving force of his age, Karl der Grosse, King Charlemagne, fights and rules like the pagan enemies he seeks to conquer. But in the long shadow of war and genocide, a spark of enlightenment grows, and the king turns to learned men to help him lead his empire to prosperity.
One of these men is the unlikely young warrior Sebastian. Raised in an isolated fortress on the wild Saxon border, Sebastian balances his time in the training yard with hours teaching himself to read, seeking answers to the great mysteries of life during an age when such pastimes were scorned by fighting men. Sebastian’s unique combination of skills endears him to Charlemagne and to the ladies of the king's court, though the only woman to hold his heart is forbidden to him. As the king determines to surround himself with men who can both fight and think beyond the fighting, Sebastian becomes one of the privileged few to hold the king’s ear.
But the favor of the king does not come without a cost. As Charlemagne's vassals grapple for power, there are some who will do anything to see Sebastian fall from grace, including his ruthless cousin Konrad, whose hatred and jealousy threaten to destroy everything Sebastian holds dear. And as Sebastian increasingly finds himself at odds with the king’s brutal methods of domination and vengeance, his ingrained sense of honor and integrity lead him to the edge of treason, perilously pitting himself against the most powerful man of his age.
This fast-paced adventure story brings Charlemagne's realm to life as the vicious Christian-pagan wars of the eighth century decide the fate of Europe. Filled with action, intrigue, and romance, Sebastian's Way is a riveting and colorful recreation of the world of Europe’s greatest medieval monarch.
During the savage Frankish-Saxon wars, the moving force of his age, Karl der Grosse, King Charlemagne, fights and rules like the pagan enemies he seeks to conquer. But in the long shadow of war and genocide, a spark of enlightenment grows, and the king turns to learned men to help him lead his empire to prosperity.
One of these men is the unlikely young warrior Sebastian. Raised in an isolated fortress on the wild Saxon border, Sebastian balances his time in the training yard with hours teaching himself to read, seeking answers to the great mysteries of life during an age when such pastimes were scorned by fighting men. Sebastian’s unique combination of skills endears him to Charlemagne and to the ladies of the king's court, though the only woman to hold his heart is forbidden to him. As the king determines to surround himself with men who can both fight and think beyond the fighting, Sebastian becomes one of the privileged few to hold the king’s ear.
But the favor of the king does not come without a cost. As Charlemagne's vassals grapple for power, there are some who will do anything to see Sebastian fall from grace, including his ruthless cousin Konrad, whose hatred and jealousy threaten to destroy everything Sebastian holds dear. And as Sebastian increasingly finds himself at odds with the king’s brutal methods of domination and vengeance, his ingrained sense of honor and integrity lead him to the edge of treason, perilously pitting himself against the most powerful man of his age.
This fast-paced adventure story brings Charlemagne's realm to life as the vicious Christian-pagan wars of the eighth century decide the fate of Europe. Filled with action, intrigue, and romance, Sebastian's Way is a riveting and colorful recreation of the world of Europe’s greatest medieval monarch.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
370 pages, Hardcover
First published October 3, 2013
3 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
George Steger
9 books11 followersColonel Steger had two long careers which contributed greatly to Sebastian's story, a military one with many years abroad in Europe and Vietnam, from which much of the action and adventure emerged, and an academic one as a professor of history at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas, in which the compassionate, philosophical, and romantic side of Sebastian was evoked. He is now Professor Emeritus at Saint Mary and writes from his home in rural Kansas.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
July 4, 2017
Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....
"Quamvis enim melius sit benefacere quam nosse, prius tamen est nosse quam facere."
When translated, it means right action is better than knowledge; but in order to do what is right, we must know what is right. A comment on strength and how it is both balanced and justified by wisdom, this intriguingly provocative idea is attributed to the legendary Charlemagne and, rather appropriately, serves as the central theme of George Steger's eighth century epic, Sebastian's Way.
Looking back on the novel, I can honestly say I was surprised at how easy it was to get into. Being largely unfamiliar with the Frankish-Saxon wars, I was initially intimidated by the story's subject matter, but was pleasantly surprised at Steger's deft explanation of medieval politics and straightforward approach to the complex intricacies Middle Age warfare.
I was further impressed with the diversity of Steger's cast and how he used characters of various backgrounds to create a comprehensive portrait of medieval society. I expected a military fiction, but what I found was a well-rounded, action-packed period drama.
A compelling and imaginative fiction, Sebastian's Way is a realistic, romantic, and engrossing tale of valor, morality, and honor.
"Quamvis enim melius sit benefacere quam nosse, prius tamen est nosse quam facere."
When translated, it means right action is better than knowledge; but in order to do what is right, we must know what is right. A comment on strength and how it is both balanced and justified by wisdom, this intriguingly provocative idea is attributed to the legendary Charlemagne and, rather appropriately, serves as the central theme of George Steger's eighth century epic, Sebastian's Way.
Looking back on the novel, I can honestly say I was surprised at how easy it was to get into. Being largely unfamiliar with the Frankish-Saxon wars, I was initially intimidated by the story's subject matter, but was pleasantly surprised at Steger's deft explanation of medieval politics and straightforward approach to the complex intricacies Middle Age warfare.
I was further impressed with the diversity of Steger's cast and how he used characters of various backgrounds to create a comprehensive portrait of medieval society. I expected a military fiction, but what I found was a well-rounded, action-packed period drama.
A compelling and imaginative fiction, Sebastian's Way is a realistic, romantic, and engrossing tale of valor, morality, and honor.
January 15, 2014
Source: Free copy from George Steger and Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for the purpose of review.
Last year I began reading books on the Middle Ages and Anglo-Saxon history, pertaining to its affect in England, Scotland, Wales. I wanted to read Sebastian's Way to learn about the Germanic Franks. Charlemagne has been a historical figure I've wanted to read about for a long time. Even though Sebastian's Way is historical fiction, this book helped give me an in-depth look at the time period and people.
When the story begins~
The year is 768 AD.
The setting is Fortress Adalgray, in the Germanic region, east of the Rhine river and south of the river Lahn.
Sebastian is a youth and lives with his willful and influential mother named Ermengard. A family friend named Attalus is a mentor and father figure for Sebastian. Attalus is an old Gallic warrior. Heimdal is a blind hermit, he has keen senses and is intuitive, he is a wise man. Konrad is a cousin of Sebastian's, at his early age he shows a penchant for battle. Konrad is an arrogant, bold, carnal person. Sebastian is a sensitive, intelligent, spiritual person. As Sebastian develops in body, his mentor Attalus teaches him techniques in combat training. When Sebastian meets Charlemagne, the Germanic leader is impressed with Sebastian's interest in education and encourages him. This is the beginning of a relationship that will change Sebastian's life.
I loved this story! It was difficult to lay the book down.
I found the character of Sebastian to be similar to a King Arthur-type-figure. He is a hero, a man of valor and faithfulness. Sebastian is imperfect; but he is quick to confess and repent and begin anew.
He is a character who develops in the story; in mind and body and spirit.
The battle scenes are rough, showing the barbaric combat style of this era. Life was not one of comfort, and in respites of peace this was not taken for granted but a time to prepare for the next war.
There is a love story element; but it is not the large over-all story.
I'm anxious to read book two, I must know what happens in Sebastian's next stage of life.
I gave Sebastian's Way 5 stars for excellent, because I was swept away by an Arthurian-type character I'll not forget.
Last year I began reading books on the Middle Ages and Anglo-Saxon history, pertaining to its affect in England, Scotland, Wales. I wanted to read Sebastian's Way to learn about the Germanic Franks. Charlemagne has been a historical figure I've wanted to read about for a long time. Even though Sebastian's Way is historical fiction, this book helped give me an in-depth look at the time period and people.
When the story begins~
The year is 768 AD.
The setting is Fortress Adalgray, in the Germanic region, east of the Rhine river and south of the river Lahn.
Sebastian is a youth and lives with his willful and influential mother named Ermengard. A family friend named Attalus is a mentor and father figure for Sebastian. Attalus is an old Gallic warrior. Heimdal is a blind hermit, he has keen senses and is intuitive, he is a wise man. Konrad is a cousin of Sebastian's, at his early age he shows a penchant for battle. Konrad is an arrogant, bold, carnal person. Sebastian is a sensitive, intelligent, spiritual person. As Sebastian develops in body, his mentor Attalus teaches him techniques in combat training. When Sebastian meets Charlemagne, the Germanic leader is impressed with Sebastian's interest in education and encourages him. This is the beginning of a relationship that will change Sebastian's life.
I loved this story! It was difficult to lay the book down.
I found the character of Sebastian to be similar to a King Arthur-type-figure. He is a hero, a man of valor and faithfulness. Sebastian is imperfect; but he is quick to confess and repent and begin anew.
He is a character who develops in the story; in mind and body and spirit.
The battle scenes are rough, showing the barbaric combat style of this era. Life was not one of comfort, and in respites of peace this was not taken for granted but a time to prepare for the next war.
There is a love story element; but it is not the large over-all story.
I'm anxious to read book two, I must know what happens in Sebastian's next stage of life.
I gave Sebastian's Way 5 stars for excellent, because I was swept away by an Arthurian-type character I'll not forget.
August 11, 2025
Loved it! I’ve been very interested in European history in the middle ages, and have read histories of the time around Charlemagne‘s reign. This is the first good novel. I have come across that is set in that time. Steger is a good writer, and tells a good story. I liked how there were many characters whose personalities were developed. I’m always interested in the daily life of people in other times and places, and Sebastian‘s story is compelling. Of course, a book that spans decades cannot fully cover everything! I would’ve liked to know more about some of the women’s lives. But Stegers attention to the historical record is admirable. I’m looking forward to the second book in this trilogy.
August 8, 2017
I wanted to love this book, but ultimately I gave up. I just didn't care about all the details of battles and while I was initially curious about how Sebastian's story would develop, I wasn't curious enough to keep going. The writing just didn't engage me.
February 10, 2014
I was eager to read Sebastian’s Way, by George Steger when it was offered, since the late 8th century during the reign of Charlemagne is a fascinating era. Told in third person, it’s a largely external read, without much internalization on the part of the characters; we get to know them primarily through their actions and dialogue, rather than what is going on inside them.
In simple, uncomplicated prose we follow the life of the hero, Sebastian, from childhood through his formative years. He is protected and guided by his bold and savvy mother, Ermengard, who is determined her son, though destined to become a warrior, will not become a mindless brute. Sebastian is mentored by Attalus, who, in a nice twist, turns out to be more than he seems.
Sebastion’s nemesis is his older cousin Konrad, a lusty and vicious warrior, and in a long-standing familial enmity, his rival for the stronghold of Fernshanz. Sebastian also inherits a blind wiseman sidekick in the form of Heimdal the hermit. Charlemagne is impressed with young Sebastian when he meets him, particularly with Sebastian’s desire to learn, and so he sends him a teacher in the form of a larger than life priest, Father Louis, who offers up a few nuggets of earthy spiritual clarity early in the novel.
The Saxon Chieftain Windukind is all you would expect from a savage, pagan foe, dressed scantily in skins and astride a rearing and dancing stallion, we first meet him as Charlemagne sends Sabastion with an expedition in search of the mysterious and illusive pagan seat of power known as Irminsul, which the king is determined to destroy.
Summary:
The prose was too consistently prosaic for my reading tastes, which lean toward literary. The battle scenes lacked the grittiness that would have lent them a greater adult reader appeal, though for YA readers they are perfect: The character of Sebastian espouses high morals, and does not take killing lightly. World building was nicely woven into the narrative. Early on I was bothered by the mention of metric measurements of distances, which I believe would be an anachronism during the time period – being more likely furloughs, or leagues. But the characters are likable, the story is a fun, quick, unchallenging read, and future installments in the series promise adventure. This novel should probably be marketed as YA. I feel it would be a good addition to school libraries to be enjoyed by teens curious about the era.
I read and reviewed this novel for Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours
Giveaway: if you’d like to win a copy of Sebastian’s Way, The Pathfinder, please leave a comment on my blog www.cynthiarobertson.wordpress.com , and include your email address. Giveaway ends February 12th. If you tweet this link, include me @Literarydaze and Amy Bruno @HFVBT, to be entered twice!
In simple, uncomplicated prose we follow the life of the hero, Sebastian, from childhood through his formative years. He is protected and guided by his bold and savvy mother, Ermengard, who is determined her son, though destined to become a warrior, will not become a mindless brute. Sebastian is mentored by Attalus, who, in a nice twist, turns out to be more than he seems.
Sebastion’s nemesis is his older cousin Konrad, a lusty and vicious warrior, and in a long-standing familial enmity, his rival for the stronghold of Fernshanz. Sebastian also inherits a blind wiseman sidekick in the form of Heimdal the hermit. Charlemagne is impressed with young Sebastian when he meets him, particularly with Sebastian’s desire to learn, and so he sends him a teacher in the form of a larger than life priest, Father Louis, who offers up a few nuggets of earthy spiritual clarity early in the novel.
The Saxon Chieftain Windukind is all you would expect from a savage, pagan foe, dressed scantily in skins and astride a rearing and dancing stallion, we first meet him as Charlemagne sends Sabastion with an expedition in search of the mysterious and illusive pagan seat of power known as Irminsul, which the king is determined to destroy.
Summary:
The prose was too consistently prosaic for my reading tastes, which lean toward literary. The battle scenes lacked the grittiness that would have lent them a greater adult reader appeal, though for YA readers they are perfect: The character of Sebastian espouses high morals, and does not take killing lightly. World building was nicely woven into the narrative. Early on I was bothered by the mention of metric measurements of distances, which I believe would be an anachronism during the time period – being more likely furloughs, or leagues. But the characters are likable, the story is a fun, quick, unchallenging read, and future installments in the series promise adventure. This novel should probably be marketed as YA. I feel it would be a good addition to school libraries to be enjoyed by teens curious about the era.
I read and reviewed this novel for Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours
Giveaway: if you’d like to win a copy of Sebastian’s Way, The Pathfinder, please leave a comment on my blog www.cynthiarobertson.wordpress.com , and include your email address. Giveaway ends February 12th. If you tweet this link, include me @Literarydaze and Amy Bruno @HFVBT, to be entered twice!
January 22, 2014
The Middle Ages and Anglo-Saxon history has always amazed me and therefore I enjoy picking up any historical novel that surrounds the ravishing dramatic era of history. Previously, I didn't locate as many Charlemagne era books as I'd have liked, but they seem to be trickling to the shelves.
Sebastian's Way, by George Steger, was far from just a military account of conquests and battles of the medieval era of Charlemagne. It's a novel of dramatic perplexities of characters and of politics, even of love. Sebastian, a young man of good heart and intelligence, speaks out in the hopes of making progress, even if speaking out to the King can be considered treason. A brutal, but forgiving King Charlemagne continues to seek out from advisors a way to make peace after so much blood and strife.
Sebastian is young, but not a violent warrior. He self-educates himself and offers advice with gentle, but learned voice. Charlemagne admires this in him, as well as many of the court ladies who swoon when he is around. Sebastian's true heart must be held close to his chest though and in this, Steger's novel becomes full-fledged epic drama as forbidden romance swelters throughout the plot.
Action and adventure abounds in this novel, as well as political machinations. Steger takes on the full gamut of emotional struggles within Sebastian with well-developed characterization and well-written scenes. As much as I thought this book could end up being text-book historically detailed and a book for men who enjoy military and battle reading, it totally ending up in a different direction. From the beginning, I felt a stake in Sebastian's character and that emotional connection with the protagonist is what will propel the reader quickly through the book. He gave us a dramatic story along the lines of the medieval Kings we devour in fantasy reads, but yet with a more accurate and historical perspective.
A coming-of-age novel, Sebastian's Way allowed me to follow Sebastian throughout his growth to maturity and respect. As he battles within himself the lines between what is right or wrong, erring to stand-up for his beliefs, the book becomes suspenseful and explosive. His emotional turmoil, heroic acts, and chivalrous character carried the novel and made me turn the pages deep into the night. This would be a great addition to anyone's historical novel shelf. I give it high praise for characterization, historical research, superb plot points, and dramatic prose, highly recommending it to anyone who loves novels of the middle ages. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
I was given a copy for my honest review. See more at www.hookofabook.wordpress.com.
Sebastian's Way, by George Steger, was far from just a military account of conquests and battles of the medieval era of Charlemagne. It's a novel of dramatic perplexities of characters and of politics, even of love. Sebastian, a young man of good heart and intelligence, speaks out in the hopes of making progress, even if speaking out to the King can be considered treason. A brutal, but forgiving King Charlemagne continues to seek out from advisors a way to make peace after so much blood and strife.
Sebastian is young, but not a violent warrior. He self-educates himself and offers advice with gentle, but learned voice. Charlemagne admires this in him, as well as many of the court ladies who swoon when he is around. Sebastian's true heart must be held close to his chest though and in this, Steger's novel becomes full-fledged epic drama as forbidden romance swelters throughout the plot.
Action and adventure abounds in this novel, as well as political machinations. Steger takes on the full gamut of emotional struggles within Sebastian with well-developed characterization and well-written scenes. As much as I thought this book could end up being text-book historically detailed and a book for men who enjoy military and battle reading, it totally ending up in a different direction. From the beginning, I felt a stake in Sebastian's character and that emotional connection with the protagonist is what will propel the reader quickly through the book. He gave us a dramatic story along the lines of the medieval Kings we devour in fantasy reads, but yet with a more accurate and historical perspective.
A coming-of-age novel, Sebastian's Way allowed me to follow Sebastian throughout his growth to maturity and respect. As he battles within himself the lines between what is right or wrong, erring to stand-up for his beliefs, the book becomes suspenseful and explosive. His emotional turmoil, heroic acts, and chivalrous character carried the novel and made me turn the pages deep into the night. This would be a great addition to anyone's historical novel shelf. I give it high praise for characterization, historical research, superb plot points, and dramatic prose, highly recommending it to anyone who loves novels of the middle ages. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
I was given a copy for my honest review. See more at www.hookofabook.wordpress.com.
December 22, 2015
Part history, part quest, part love story, this historical novel set in the eighth century traces the fortunes of Sebastian, an unconventional warrior for King Charlemagne during the fierce Frankish-Saxon wars.
Steger, Professor Emeritus of History, brings the past to life in his first novel. After an introduction that reads like an excerpt from a well-written history text, Steger throws us right into the action. In a prologue that postdates the book’s events, Sebastian defies Charlemagne by urging him to deal with the Saxons rather than annihilate them. Though this is considered treason, Sebastian, a favorite of the king, is sent home instead of executed. The rest of the book follows Sebastian’s life to this point, from supplying soldiers on the ramparts of his hometown of Adalgray as a young boy, through the death of parents, his first love, and the first man he must kill in battle. Sebastian trains obsessively to be a warrior under Attalus, Horse Master of Adalgray who Sebastian later learns is his father. But Sebastian is different; thoughtful and accepting of different ideas and people. Crucially, he wants to read, a skill which together with distinguishing himself in battle, endears him to the literate Charlemagne. Along the way he is opposed and often foiled by his cousin Konrad, a cruel overlord who poisons his father and steals Adela, his true love. Beautifully executed, Steger peppers his narrative with historical details on the condition of serfs and freemen, the role of women, and how something like horse stirrups can prove a deadly arms race escalation or the strategically timed release of kites can decide a battle. Here he describes a peasant dance. “They moved tentatively at first, only occasionally and shyly raising their glances toward the watching young men. After a time the men began to clap their hands and utter a guttural tentative rhythmic sound…”(327) Although the opening of a multivolume saga, this book can stand alone. Steger settles all scores and wraps up all loose ends, while at the same time sets the scene for future volumes.
A treat for medieval history buffs, this well-honed tale will leave all readers spoiling for the next installment.
Steger, Professor Emeritus of History, brings the past to life in his first novel. After an introduction that reads like an excerpt from a well-written history text, Steger throws us right into the action. In a prologue that postdates the book’s events, Sebastian defies Charlemagne by urging him to deal with the Saxons rather than annihilate them. Though this is considered treason, Sebastian, a favorite of the king, is sent home instead of executed. The rest of the book follows Sebastian’s life to this point, from supplying soldiers on the ramparts of his hometown of Adalgray as a young boy, through the death of parents, his first love, and the first man he must kill in battle. Sebastian trains obsessively to be a warrior under Attalus, Horse Master of Adalgray who Sebastian later learns is his father. But Sebastian is different; thoughtful and accepting of different ideas and people. Crucially, he wants to read, a skill which together with distinguishing himself in battle, endears him to the literate Charlemagne. Along the way he is opposed and often foiled by his cousin Konrad, a cruel overlord who poisons his father and steals Adela, his true love. Beautifully executed, Steger peppers his narrative with historical details on the condition of serfs and freemen, the role of women, and how something like horse stirrups can prove a deadly arms race escalation or the strategically timed release of kites can decide a battle. Here he describes a peasant dance. “They moved tentatively at first, only occasionally and shyly raising their glances toward the watching young men. After a time the men began to clap their hands and utter a guttural tentative rhythmic sound…”(327) Although the opening of a multivolume saga, this book can stand alone. Steger settles all scores and wraps up all loose ends, while at the same time sets the scene for future volumes.
A treat for medieval history buffs, this well-honed tale will leave all readers spoiling for the next installment.
January 31, 2014
*Received from Historical Fiction Virtual Tours and author for an honest review.
I’ve been incredibly lucky to read so many excellent books lately and “Sebastian’s Way” by George Steger was no exception. I loved many different elements of this book. One, I thought the author wrote beautifully. I usually don’t comment on the writing style or technique of an author because I am not a writer. I always look at a book from a reader’s perspective and give my viewpoint from that perspective. However, this author really weaved a beautiful tale about this young man that becomes a soldier during Charlemagne’s time. I think the last time I read about Charlemagne was when I was in fourth grade so much of the information was very new to me. Steger made it easy to get lost in this world of bitter battles and Sebastian’s coming of age. It was very easy to love Sebastian and empathize for his struggles as he tries to prove himself. I thought the author presented a very diverse point of view. He explained how the conquests and fighting affected everyone, he made Sebastian a hero but still fallible. There are many action scenes but they were entertaining, intriguing and informative. I’m embarrassed to say that much of the history regarding the Frankish-Saxon wars was new for me but it flowed easily with the story so it did not feel overwhelming. It was easy to become enraptured in the story and to root for this hero as he proved himself and fought many difficult battles for his king. If you’re looking for adventure, struggle and coming of age with the backdrop of history, you can’t go wrong with this wonderful story.
I’ve been incredibly lucky to read so many excellent books lately and “Sebastian’s Way” by George Steger was no exception. I loved many different elements of this book. One, I thought the author wrote beautifully. I usually don’t comment on the writing style or technique of an author because I am not a writer. I always look at a book from a reader’s perspective and give my viewpoint from that perspective. However, this author really weaved a beautiful tale about this young man that becomes a soldier during Charlemagne’s time. I think the last time I read about Charlemagne was when I was in fourth grade so much of the information was very new to me. Steger made it easy to get lost in this world of bitter battles and Sebastian’s coming of age. It was very easy to love Sebastian and empathize for his struggles as he tries to prove himself. I thought the author presented a very diverse point of view. He explained how the conquests and fighting affected everyone, he made Sebastian a hero but still fallible. There are many action scenes but they were entertaining, intriguing and informative. I’m embarrassed to say that much of the history regarding the Frankish-Saxon wars was new for me but it flowed easily with the story so it did not feel overwhelming. It was easy to become enraptured in the story and to root for this hero as he proved himself and fought many difficult battles for his king. If you’re looking for adventure, struggle and coming of age with the backdrop of history, you can’t go wrong with this wonderful story.
February 7, 2014
http://myainbookblog.blogspot.com/201...
An epoch which has some importance for me in both my reading life and my genealogical pursuits, apparently called the "Saxon March" at that time. I loved the period descriptions of life in this hard and distant time on the borders of what would be France.George Steger has crafted a fine piece of work as a first novel, and he enjoys as well as develops his characters.
Sebastian is clearly a reluctant hero,but he does have elements of heroism as well as blunders.The author allows him and his characters to grow and develop well. The villain,or antihero, his cousin Konrad, has his ups and downs as well.The love story with Adela is quite bumpy and rocky but it gets there in the end as does his ups and downs with Charlemagne, also know as Karl der Grosse. A violent era, I still think that Sebastian's staunchest supporters got killed off with remarkable rapidity, so I am expecting a few more important folks to emerge in subsequent books.
Simon is a bit of a puzzle and Adelaide, also, has an improbable character for the 8th century.I think it all works however as the story seems to flow along pretty well, due to the fact that Steger is a skillful writer.He is a top notch medieval scholar, as the descriptions of 8th century fortifications as well as agricultural developments of the times are superb.
I received the book for a review and enjoyed it a great deal. I personally am looking forward to the next installment in Sebastian's life and recommend this for historical and medieval novel fans.
An epoch which has some importance for me in both my reading life and my genealogical pursuits, apparently called the "Saxon March" at that time. I loved the period descriptions of life in this hard and distant time on the borders of what would be France.George Steger has crafted a fine piece of work as a first novel, and he enjoys as well as develops his characters.
Sebastian is clearly a reluctant hero,but he does have elements of heroism as well as blunders.The author allows him and his characters to grow and develop well. The villain,or antihero, his cousin Konrad, has his ups and downs as well.The love story with Adela is quite bumpy and rocky but it gets there in the end as does his ups and downs with Charlemagne, also know as Karl der Grosse. A violent era, I still think that Sebastian's staunchest supporters got killed off with remarkable rapidity, so I am expecting a few more important folks to emerge in subsequent books.
Simon is a bit of a puzzle and Adelaide, also, has an improbable character for the 8th century.I think it all works however as the story seems to flow along pretty well, due to the fact that Steger is a skillful writer.He is a top notch medieval scholar, as the descriptions of 8th century fortifications as well as agricultural developments of the times are superb.
I received the book for a review and enjoyed it a great deal. I personally am looking forward to the next installment in Sebastian's life and recommend this for historical and medieval novel fans.
January 31, 2014
Sebastian’s Way is an inspiring story of a young man’s journey during a time of great violence and ignorance. The story takes place during the early reign of Charlemagne. Life was so hard during that time. War defined a man; not his desire to learn. Sebastian thrived to rise about expectations and live a life he can be proud of.
Mr. Steger has written a very rich and engaging piece of historical fiction. He was able to give the readers a vivid picture of life during the 700s. It was dark and dirty but also full of hope of what could be. Sebastian represented that hope of growth and improvement.
Charlemagne is a larger than life character. He is passionate, intelligent and powerful. At times, he can be very compassionate. He is a great king but with a few flaws; like winning at all costs. However, in the end, he was able to listen and make decisions that benefit everyone; all with Sebastian’s wise counsel.
Sebastian’s Way is a wonderful book that I highly recommend. It is full of historical detail and I loved every page!
Mr. Steger has written a very rich and engaging piece of historical fiction. He was able to give the readers a vivid picture of life during the 700s. It was dark and dirty but also full of hope of what could be. Sebastian represented that hope of growth and improvement.
Charlemagne is a larger than life character. He is passionate, intelligent and powerful. At times, he can be very compassionate. He is a great king but with a few flaws; like winning at all costs. However, in the end, he was able to listen and make decisions that benefit everyone; all with Sebastian’s wise counsel.
Sebastian’s Way is a wonderful book that I highly recommend. It is full of historical detail and I loved every page!
August 18, 2016
A fine novel taking what's known of the military and political events of Charlemagne's reign and imagining how and why they occurred. The lead character, Sebastian, is a favorite of Charlemagne's because he is both a soldier as well as an aspiring scholar. This well-written story is full of complications on the road to peace - both at a personal level as well as the national level.
If you are interested in learning a little more about Charlemagne and his era, you would do well to pick up this truly enjoyable novel.
If you are interested in learning a little more about Charlemagne and his era, you would do well to pick up this truly enjoyable novel.
Want to read
January 17, 2014We have a giveaway for this book on the blog:
http://www.layersofthought.net/2014/0...
http://www.layersofthought.net/2014/0...
December 12, 2014
We are proud to announce that SABASTIAN'S WAY: THE PATHFINDER by George Steger is a B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
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