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The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland
The Dark Ages—a time of great turmoil and the collision of empires!
As the Frank kingdom prepares for war, Roland, young heir to the Breton March, has been relegated to guard duty until a foreign emissary entrusts him with vital word of a new threat to the kingdom. Now Roland must embark on a risky journey to save all he loves from swift destruction.
And yet while facing down merciless enemies, he must also reveal the hand of a murderer who even now stalks the halls of power and threatens to pull apart a kingdom reborn under the greatest of medieval kings, the remarkable Charlemagne.
For Roland to become the champion his kingdom needs, he must survive war, intrigue and betrayal. The Silver Horn Echoes pays homage to "La Chanson de Roland" by revisiting an age of intrigue and honor, and a fateful decision in the shadows of a lonely mountain pass—Roncevaux!
A Journey Well Worth Taking
"Michael Eging and Steve Arnold have done for Roland what Jack Whyte did for the Arthurian mythos. They have brought the story into the real world and turned it into flesh and blood. Whether you have read La Chanson de Roland or will be first introduced to it by this book, I highly recommend reading it." San Francisco Book Review
A High-Energy Tale of Battles, Bravery, and Treachery
"The allure of intense conflicts and divided loyalties should keep readers turning pages straight through to the novel's surprising conclusion." Kirkus Review
Summer 2018 New Apple Ebook Awards Official Selection for Action and Adventure
As the Frank kingdom prepares for war, Roland, young heir to the Breton March, has been relegated to guard duty until a foreign emissary entrusts him with vital word of a new threat to the kingdom. Now Roland must embark on a risky journey to save all he loves from swift destruction.
And yet while facing down merciless enemies, he must also reveal the hand of a murderer who even now stalks the halls of power and threatens to pull apart a kingdom reborn under the greatest of medieval kings, the remarkable Charlemagne.
For Roland to become the champion his kingdom needs, he must survive war, intrigue and betrayal. The Silver Horn Echoes pays homage to "La Chanson de Roland" by revisiting an age of intrigue and honor, and a fateful decision in the shadows of a lonely mountain pass—Roncevaux!
A Journey Well Worth Taking
"Michael Eging and Steve Arnold have done for Roland what Jack Whyte did for the Arthurian mythos. They have brought the story into the real world and turned it into flesh and blood. Whether you have read La Chanson de Roland or will be first introduced to it by this book, I highly recommend reading it." San Francisco Book Review
A High-Energy Tale of Battles, Bravery, and Treachery
"The allure of intense conflicts and divided loyalties should keep readers turning pages straight through to the novel's surprising conclusion." Kirkus Review
Summer 2018 New Apple Ebook Awards Official Selection for Action and Adventure
334 pages, Paperback
First published July 22, 2017
21 people are currently reading
472 people want to read
About the author
Michael Eging
7 books51 followersMike has wanted to write since he was very young. His earliest memories are of carrying a battered old notebook around full of illustrations and stories. He would often transpose those ideas on his grandmother's old typewriter.
While in college, he was inspired by professors and visiting writers to BYU. Literary classics such as Song of Roland and Inferno were often in his backpack, along with Russian textbooks. Chapter 3 of Annwyn's Blood was written during this time as a short story.
Mike works in Washington, DC since pursuing graduate studies in Russian History. He focuses in domestic policy issues.
Recently, Mike has pursued an interest in writing screenplays for feature films with his first option being a medieval epic, Song of Roland. He continues to focus on a variety of script/movie projects, most recently a horror thriller, Feast of Saint Nicholas, and a political thriller, The Prince. He is a partner at Filibuster Filmworks, LLC.
He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife, Lori and his wonderful children. He dreams of one day driving in his old Defender to Alaska with his kids and their dog, Marlin.
While in college, he was inspired by professors and visiting writers to BYU. Literary classics such as Song of Roland and Inferno were often in his backpack, along with Russian textbooks. Chapter 3 of Annwyn's Blood was written during this time as a short story.
Mike works in Washington, DC since pursuing graduate studies in Russian History. He focuses in domestic policy issues.
Recently, Mike has pursued an interest in writing screenplays for feature films with his first option being a medieval epic, Song of Roland. He continues to focus on a variety of script/movie projects, most recently a horror thriller, Feast of Saint Nicholas, and a political thriller, The Prince. He is a partner at Filibuster Filmworks, LLC.
He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife, Lori and his wonderful children. He dreams of one day driving in his old Defender to Alaska with his kids and their dog, Marlin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 11, 2017
Set in the Dark Ages: an account of Roland, a champion whose heroic deeds and code of honour are in demand to protect King Charles. The story is a weaving of short related tales that paint the history, battles, valour, internal fighting, and politics during this time. King Charles must keep his throne from grim conspirators and claimants to the throne, constantly fighting Saxons and Emir Marsilion of Saragossa who plots to exact revenge against Barcelona and sees an opportunity to invade France too!
I agree that the stories were reminiscent of the tales of King Arthur – bravery coupled with the courting of beautiful Princesses. Along with the above, it did ignite that nostalgic classical feeling within me, when I watch such films, of times when knights lived and died by honour and the sword.
The plans between Kings, Emirs, and Emperors made Europe feel like an authentically constructed setting, and this was bolstered with battle that actually provided glimpses of how the events played out and circled around the hero Roland. Tragedy and blood was apparent in equal measure – it wasn’t all fantastical heroism.
Some of the following criticism is just personal preference, as a consequence of reading omniscient point of view, which I’m less familiar with. The scenes were shorter than I would have liked, which stopped the flow of events at times, though they worked well in prioritising the setting and circumstances the main characters were involved in. I would have liked a bit more characterisation too, such as the rivalry between Ganelon and Roland at the beginning, which carried the emotional intensity of boiling water, which was good. I did sometimes forget who was who with sub-characters, an exception being Saleem who had an interesting background as the ‘wrong son’ banished from Marsilion’s court.
There is a hint of dark magic, such as ‘shades’, dreams, and sorcerous mystery. It mixed in nicely with religious devotion during this time. It added that little extra flavour to the theme without overpowering the essentially medieval content, which was nice.
The ending was exceptional – the reader is given just the right amount of perception to build a picture of the final battle, and it made use of heroism, loss, friendship, and objects within the story to make it a truly epic tale. I’d read more books like this, and would watch more films like this. The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland is an astonishing and proud achievement, and as a reader I feel I’ve reaped the rewards.
I agree that the stories were reminiscent of the tales of King Arthur – bravery coupled with the courting of beautiful Princesses. Along with the above, it did ignite that nostalgic classical feeling within me, when I watch such films, of times when knights lived and died by honour and the sword.
The plans between Kings, Emirs, and Emperors made Europe feel like an authentically constructed setting, and this was bolstered with battle that actually provided glimpses of how the events played out and circled around the hero Roland. Tragedy and blood was apparent in equal measure – it wasn’t all fantastical heroism.
Some of the following criticism is just personal preference, as a consequence of reading omniscient point of view, which I’m less familiar with. The scenes were shorter than I would have liked, which stopped the flow of events at times, though they worked well in prioritising the setting and circumstances the main characters were involved in. I would have liked a bit more characterisation too, such as the rivalry between Ganelon and Roland at the beginning, which carried the emotional intensity of boiling water, which was good. I did sometimes forget who was who with sub-characters, an exception being Saleem who had an interesting background as the ‘wrong son’ banished from Marsilion’s court.
There is a hint of dark magic, such as ‘shades’, dreams, and sorcerous mystery. It mixed in nicely with religious devotion during this time. It added that little extra flavour to the theme without overpowering the essentially medieval content, which was nice.
The ending was exceptional – the reader is given just the right amount of perception to build a picture of the final battle, and it made use of heroism, loss, friendship, and objects within the story to make it a truly epic tale. I’d read more books like this, and would watch more films like this. The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland is an astonishing and proud achievement, and as a reader I feel I’ve reaped the rewards.
January 3, 2019
Taking the French epic poem "Chanson de Roland" as its source, this novel has given us a retelling, with much added -- backstory of the various characters and much detail. The authors have used the germ of the original story, which concentrated mainly on the climactic battle at Ronceveaux Pass [from France to Spain], deaths of Roland and his friend Oliver after their heroic stand at their own "Thermopylae", and aftermath with Charlemagne whose army has been saved.
The authors impressed their own original stamp on it with much more description, motivations, and additional characters: e.g., the Byzantines, the ghost of Roland's dead father who appears to Roland several times and an extra son of the Saracen emir, Saleem. There is character development and a subplot of intrigue. There are more battles besides Ronceveaux: the defense of Barcelona and battle at Carcassonne, all of which are pretty gory. The story is bookended by Duke William of Normandy's bard recounting the tale before Hastings to motivate William's men and then William's blowing Roland's silver horn [the Oliphant] to proclaim his victory at the battle. Although Roland's sword Durandal has been lost, the Oliphant has come into William's possession.
An exciting treat and very readable. Recommended.
The authors impressed their own original stamp on it with much more description, motivations, and additional characters: e.g., the Byzantines, the ghost of Roland's dead father who appears to Roland several times and an extra son of the Saracen emir, Saleem. There is character development and a subplot of intrigue. There are more battles besides Ronceveaux: the defense of Barcelona and battle at Carcassonne, all of which are pretty gory. The story is bookended by Duke William of Normandy's bard recounting the tale before Hastings to motivate William's men and then William's blowing Roland's silver horn [the Oliphant] to proclaim his victory at the battle. Although Roland's sword Durandal has been lost, the Oliphant has come into William's possession.
An exciting treat and very readable. Recommended.
April 10, 2019
This is a historical fiction book based on the epic poem “The Song of Roland.” I read this poem in my literature class in college, so I knew the time frame and some of the history surrounding it, which helped me dive right in. Although I’m not a huge fan of war and battles, this story had my attention from the first chapter. It is well-written, and the attention to detail and history was outstanding. There’s plenty of power grabbing, gory battles, love, betrayal, murder, and honor. “The Silver Horn Echoes” is not my normal genre to read, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you love history, knights, war, political/religious intrigue, and bravery, you’ll enjoy this tale.
November 8, 2017
I read this book because I am largely ignorant of most of the history of the Dark Ages, except for some marginal knowledge of Charlemagne, King Charles the Great. However, I am acquainted with The Song of Roland (La Chanson de Roland), an epic poem based on the Battle of Roncevaux Pass in 778, during Charlemagne’s reign. It is the oldest surviving major work of French literature. This book is an homage to that epic.
The Dark Ages was a time of great turmoil and the collision of empires. As the young Frank kingdom, led by King Charles, prepares to defend itself against the Saxons in the east, Roland, heir to the Breton March, has been relegated to guard duty. Everything changes when a foreign emissary entrusts him to bring Charles vital word of a new threat to the kingdom from a Muslim invasion from the south. Roland joins the king's retinue and discovers there are traitors plotting regicide within the peerage and knights. Roland is well-acquainted with one of them – his step-father, whom he suspects of killing his father on the battlefield to assume his lands and take Roland's mother as his wife.
The story is written from an omniscient point of view, which sometimes breaks the train of the main story, but is necessary to understand the many obstacles faced by Charles as he works to hold his kingdom together. Nevertheless, the focus is on Roland’s development into a great warrior and the right hand of Charles, along his deepening love for the sister of his good friend and the plots of his step-father and others who desire to seize the throne. It revisits an age of court intrigue, chivalry and valor, the clash of arms, and a final, fateful decision made before the Battle of Roncevaux.
I enjoyed this book. It is filled with superb medieval historic detail as it pulls together various threads in the life of King Charles and Roland. I particularly liked the visitations of Roland’s father William in ghostly form, to advise Roland and counsel him. While Charles remains a less formed character, Roland’s progression from an impetuous youth seeking revenge to a canny and powerful warrior is well limned. Most of the other main characters – the stepfather Ganelon and his equally treacherous son Gothard; Saleem, the son of Marsilion, the Muslim king; Oliver, Roland’s good friend; Aude, Oliver’s sister and Roland’s love – are also three-dimensional and unforgettable. There are many minor characters, related to various aspects of the story, who require vigilance on the part of the reader to keep in mind, but they added to the richness of world the authors have created.
The Silver Horn is reminiscent of the stories of King Arthur, with courtly love, knightly honor and dark treachery; it also reminds me of a favorite book of my youth, Ivanhoe. The unrelenting battle scenes, although a necessary part of the story, can be overwhelming: their descriptions are not for the faint of heart and bear witness to the brutality of waging war in medieval times. I could still hear the clash of swords and the screams of dying men after I put the book down.
With its sacrifice and loss, the ending was deeply affecting, and the discovery of the silver horn in the distant future was reassuring testament to the endurance of Roland’s legend. This is a truly epic tale which will resonate with many readers and which does honor to La Chanson de Roland.
The Dark Ages was a time of great turmoil and the collision of empires. As the young Frank kingdom, led by King Charles, prepares to defend itself against the Saxons in the east, Roland, heir to the Breton March, has been relegated to guard duty. Everything changes when a foreign emissary entrusts him to bring Charles vital word of a new threat to the kingdom from a Muslim invasion from the south. Roland joins the king's retinue and discovers there are traitors plotting regicide within the peerage and knights. Roland is well-acquainted with one of them – his step-father, whom he suspects of killing his father on the battlefield to assume his lands and take Roland's mother as his wife.
The story is written from an omniscient point of view, which sometimes breaks the train of the main story, but is necessary to understand the many obstacles faced by Charles as he works to hold his kingdom together. Nevertheless, the focus is on Roland’s development into a great warrior and the right hand of Charles, along his deepening love for the sister of his good friend and the plots of his step-father and others who desire to seize the throne. It revisits an age of court intrigue, chivalry and valor, the clash of arms, and a final, fateful decision made before the Battle of Roncevaux.
I enjoyed this book. It is filled with superb medieval historic detail as it pulls together various threads in the life of King Charles and Roland. I particularly liked the visitations of Roland’s father William in ghostly form, to advise Roland and counsel him. While Charles remains a less formed character, Roland’s progression from an impetuous youth seeking revenge to a canny and powerful warrior is well limned. Most of the other main characters – the stepfather Ganelon and his equally treacherous son Gothard; Saleem, the son of Marsilion, the Muslim king; Oliver, Roland’s good friend; Aude, Oliver’s sister and Roland’s love – are also three-dimensional and unforgettable. There are many minor characters, related to various aspects of the story, who require vigilance on the part of the reader to keep in mind, but they added to the richness of world the authors have created.
The Silver Horn is reminiscent of the stories of King Arthur, with courtly love, knightly honor and dark treachery; it also reminds me of a favorite book of my youth, Ivanhoe. The unrelenting battle scenes, although a necessary part of the story, can be overwhelming: their descriptions are not for the faint of heart and bear witness to the brutality of waging war in medieval times. I could still hear the clash of swords and the screams of dying men after I put the book down.
With its sacrifice and loss, the ending was deeply affecting, and the discovery of the silver horn in the distant future was reassuring testament to the endurance of Roland’s legend. This is a truly epic tale which will resonate with many readers and which does honor to La Chanson de Roland.
September 17, 2018
Review: This novel is at once compelling, ridiculous, entertaining and maudlin. Let's look at the ridiculous.
Roland is written as an animation hero straight out of Disney, only more visceral in presentation. He is stalwart, honest/truthful to a fault, abhors evil, and men flock to him for leadership in battle. He only has one true love and puts others before himself...in all things. It's like Dudley Dooright made a night deposit at the Disney sperm bank, and out popped Roland. Of course where would Roland be without a sidekick? He gets one on the field of battle by defeating a giant sized Norseman who then swears undying loyalty to him. Of course the Dane is loud and boisterous while hefting a mighty battle ax (yawn). So the tropes are many, as are the fat-rendered cliche's and every instance where events become near impossible and most dire.....there is Roland to save the day.
Meanwhile Snidely Whiplash......er, uh....Giselon is conspiring to kill the King and take the throne. Giselon also has a sidekick named Muttley, er......an evil Priest (is there any other kind?) who flitters about the edges of the story line sneering his way into your heart.
So, what did I think of it all? I fukin' loved it. I know, kick me in the balls and throw away my reviewer badge, but dang this was good. While Roland dashes to the rescue of those less fortunate or able, AND against superior odds, you cannot but help root for the guy. What's not to like about blonde locks flying, sword cut cutting and slashing it's way through the evil that conspires to rid the godly anointed Frank King from this earth?
So throw away your inhibitions and righteous indignation in favor of some literary mastication that may seek a purge on the rolling decks of clarity. Ok, that didn't make much sense but neither did this novel.
Read all of my reviews, Here.
Roland is written as an animation hero straight out of Disney, only more visceral in presentation. He is stalwart, honest/truthful to a fault, abhors evil, and men flock to him for leadership in battle. He only has one true love and puts others before himself...in all things. It's like Dudley Dooright made a night deposit at the Disney sperm bank, and out popped Roland. Of course where would Roland be without a sidekick? He gets one on the field of battle by defeating a giant sized Norseman who then swears undying loyalty to him. Of course the Dane is loud and boisterous while hefting a mighty battle ax (yawn). So the tropes are many, as are the fat-rendered cliche's and every instance where events become near impossible and most dire.....there is Roland to save the day.
Meanwhile Snidely Whiplash......er, uh....Giselon is conspiring to kill the King and take the throne. Giselon also has a sidekick named Muttley, er......an evil Priest (is there any other kind?) who flitters about the edges of the story line sneering his way into your heart.
So, what did I think of it all? I fukin' loved it. I know, kick me in the balls and throw away my reviewer badge, but dang this was good. While Roland dashes to the rescue of those less fortunate or able, AND against superior odds, you cannot but help root for the guy. What's not to like about blonde locks flying, sword cut cutting and slashing it's way through the evil that conspires to rid the godly anointed Frank King from this earth?
So throw away your inhibitions and righteous indignation in favor of some literary mastication that may seek a purge on the rolling decks of clarity. Ok, that didn't make much sense but neither did this novel.
Read all of my reviews, Here.
October 16, 2019
I am a big fan of ancient historical fiction. Some of my favorite historical fiction books are the Saxon Stories by Bernard Cornwell mainly because it helps me feel like I am learning about a time long forgotten and being supremely entertained at the same time—don’t yell at me, I know historical fiction is Fiction with that capital “F” and lots of liberties are being taken, but a good historical fiction will inspire you, me, and maybe your mom too, to go out and then learn more about that time, or at least Google it for the next two days. That’s what “The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland” did for me. You see, I was 0% familiar with “La Chanson de Roland”, the epic poem/story this novel is based on. It’s the story of the most honorable of knights in the Christian Frank Kingdom as he protects his king and country from the Emir of Saragossa. Who is Roland’s king that he becomes the champion for? That he’ll stand against countless waves of enemies for, and uncover murder plots for? Oh, just the guy who later becomes known as Charlemagne, maybe you’ve heard of him?
If you’re a fan of Arthurian fantasies with a sprinkling of a Romeo and Juliet vibes, I have found your next read! Both Roland and King Arthur fall into this “too good to be true” type of camp. Both are honorable to a fault, desperately love their leading ladies, and both show this classic, chivalrous idea of knighthood. But where the end of King Arthur’s stories herald the start of the Dark Ages with his bright light being put out, the end of Roland’s story signals the start of the Renascence period, at least according to history. So there’s more a sense of hope then what Arthurian fantasies may leave you with. The way the story is written also captures that feel of the epic poem it was based off of, everything from how the characters speak to how the locations both feel very real but larger than life at the same time. Like, they seem to get across most of Europe pretty quickly, but when they are fighting at the gates of the city, you can practically smell the burning walls.
The book is also wonderfully campy. I do mean that as a compliment, because you have these amazing heroes that can stand against literal hordes of enemies, and they prevail against nearly impossible odds. It’s almost impossible not to be swept up by Roland’s flowing golden locks as he triumphs against superior numbers and always seems to arrive in the nick of time to save his king. He’s got a loyal best friend where the two of them have a lovely bromance together, and he also has a barbarian Saxon sidekick who pledges loyalty to him after Roland bested him in combat. I mean, really, how do you not laugh at and also love a main character like that? Plus, Roland’s lady love braves her own foes and races across the country to warn her husband of danger; she never appears to be the stereotypical damsel all too common for these kinds of stories, and I loved that!
Honestly, my only complaint is that the book, while full of exciting combat and courtly intrigue, felt a bit slow at times. You have multiple POV’s so who the traitor is in the king’s court is never a secret, his plans are never hidden from the reader, which diminishes some of the suspense that may have made this novel read more like a page turner. Plus, there is a really uncomfortable relationship between the king and his daughter that never sat well with me—I don’t think it’s supposed to, but I question why it was included to the degree it was because it made me never really like the king, either. And this is where the downside of being swept up in historical fiction comes in. Because of that really bad relationship, I went down the Google rabbit hole to see if that was true. It might have been? But what is more accepted is that Charlemagne, aka Charles the Great, had a thing for his sister, Roland's mom. So it is far more likely that Roland's dad was also his uncle... Got to love those perverse royal practices! Anyway, I didn't know that before reading this book, and probably would have never cared enough to learn more if it weren't for this book, so yay? Regardless, this was a fun historical fiction told in a unique voice which inspired me to look more into the history surrounding Roland, which is what a good historical fiction should do! So I’m giving this book a delightful 4 stars, and thanks to the author for providing me with a copy for an honest review.
If you’re a fan of Arthurian fantasies with a sprinkling of a Romeo and Juliet vibes, I have found your next read! Both Roland and King Arthur fall into this “too good to be true” type of camp. Both are honorable to a fault, desperately love their leading ladies, and both show this classic, chivalrous idea of knighthood. But where the end of King Arthur’s stories herald the start of the Dark Ages with his bright light being put out, the end of Roland’s story signals the start of the Renascence period, at least according to history. So there’s more a sense of hope then what Arthurian fantasies may leave you with. The way the story is written also captures that feel of the epic poem it was based off of, everything from how the characters speak to how the locations both feel very real but larger than life at the same time. Like, they seem to get across most of Europe pretty quickly, but when they are fighting at the gates of the city, you can practically smell the burning walls.
The book is also wonderfully campy. I do mean that as a compliment, because you have these amazing heroes that can stand against literal hordes of enemies, and they prevail against nearly impossible odds. It’s almost impossible not to be swept up by Roland’s flowing golden locks as he triumphs against superior numbers and always seems to arrive in the nick of time to save his king. He’s got a loyal best friend where the two of them have a lovely bromance together, and he also has a barbarian Saxon sidekick who pledges loyalty to him after Roland bested him in combat. I mean, really, how do you not laugh at and also love a main character like that? Plus, Roland’s lady love braves her own foes and races across the country to warn her husband of danger; she never appears to be the stereotypical damsel all too common for these kinds of stories, and I loved that!
Honestly, my only complaint is that the book, while full of exciting combat and courtly intrigue, felt a bit slow at times. You have multiple POV’s so who the traitor is in the king’s court is never a secret, his plans are never hidden from the reader, which diminishes some of the suspense that may have made this novel read more like a page turner. Plus, there is a really uncomfortable relationship between the king and his daughter that never sat well with me—I don’t think it’s supposed to, but I question why it was included to the degree it was because it made me never really like the king, either. And this is where the downside of being swept up in historical fiction comes in. Because of that really bad relationship, I went down the Google rabbit hole to see if that was true. It might have been? But what is more accepted is that Charlemagne, aka Charles the Great, had a thing for his sister, Roland's mom. So it is far more likely that Roland's dad was also his uncle... Got to love those perverse royal practices! Anyway, I didn't know that before reading this book, and probably would have never cared enough to learn more if it weren't for this book, so yay? Regardless, this was a fun historical fiction told in a unique voice which inspired me to look more into the history surrounding Roland, which is what a good historical fiction should do! So I’m giving this book a delightful 4 stars, and thanks to the author for providing me with a copy for an honest review.
August 3, 2019
Historical Fiction:
This book is an action packed adventure taking you back into the Dark Ages. Roland, heir to the Breton March, a courageous, young warrior, son of King William, Duke of Normandy is the main character. The clashing of empires, the battles, betrayal and murder all add up to the many twists and turns that will hold your interest throughout your reading.
This book is an action packed adventure taking you back into the Dark Ages. Roland, heir to the Breton March, a courageous, young warrior, son of King William, Duke of Normandy is the main character. The clashing of empires, the battles, betrayal and murder all add up to the many twists and turns that will hold your interest throughout your reading.
October 15, 2017
After Roland learns of a new threat to the Frank Kingdom, he must fight his way to victory and to protect King Charles, who happens to be his uncle, the brother of his mother. Additionally, Roland must find a way to bring to justice, the murderer of his father.
First off, I have to be honest and say I don’t usually read or even watch any kind of war stories. Secondly, I have to be even more honest and say wow! This book held my attention from the time I started reading until I finished. There was so much going on…however, not in the way it was confusing. As I read, I became so engrossed with the characters. I knew who I liked and I knew who was evil. Roland was a young man and you can see how he grew as time passed. Amidst the death, destruction and betrayal that came with the war, Roland and his company held onto their Christian faith, which I loved to read most of all.
The narrative was so descriptive, I could almost smell the blood, taste the dirt and hear the clatter of sword against sword in my mind’s eye. It was as if I was there. I started out as taking notes of what I liked and didn’t like, but in the end stopped because I could pause long enough. As it was, I had to force myself to stretch out my reading because I wanted to enjoy every minute.
Was there anything I didn’t like? I can’t remember it because I was too engrossed in the story, the relationship, the whole shebang.
Although most books I read these days are from my Kindle app, I certainly wouldn’t mind to one day purchase a hard copy. This is an epic tale that would be fun to read on a cold day sitting by a fire…in my opinion.
The authors deserve every single praise they get for the making of this book. I certainly can’t remember loving a book so much.
Here is an interesting bit of trivia I learned from one of the authors: the cover artist hand painted the cover to Song of Roland. He's an artist in LA who has done work for D.C. Comics.
For more book reviews, visit: https://angelakaysbooks.com/book-revi...
First off, I have to be honest and say I don’t usually read or even watch any kind of war stories. Secondly, I have to be even more honest and say wow! This book held my attention from the time I started reading until I finished. There was so much going on…however, not in the way it was confusing. As I read, I became so engrossed with the characters. I knew who I liked and I knew who was evil. Roland was a young man and you can see how he grew as time passed. Amidst the death, destruction and betrayal that came with the war, Roland and his company held onto their Christian faith, which I loved to read most of all.
The narrative was so descriptive, I could almost smell the blood, taste the dirt and hear the clatter of sword against sword in my mind’s eye. It was as if I was there. I started out as taking notes of what I liked and didn’t like, but in the end stopped because I could pause long enough. As it was, I had to force myself to stretch out my reading because I wanted to enjoy every minute.
Was there anything I didn’t like? I can’t remember it because I was too engrossed in the story, the relationship, the whole shebang.
Although most books I read these days are from my Kindle app, I certainly wouldn’t mind to one day purchase a hard copy. This is an epic tale that would be fun to read on a cold day sitting by a fire…in my opinion.
The authors deserve every single praise they get for the making of this book. I certainly can’t remember loving a book so much.
Here is an interesting bit of trivia I learned from one of the authors: the cover artist hand painted the cover to Song of Roland. He's an artist in LA who has done work for D.C. Comics.
For more book reviews, visit: https://angelakaysbooks.com/book-revi...
September 19, 2019
This was one of those ones that lingers on my TBF for ages. Then theauthor offeredme a free copy in exchange for an honest review, and that's always a good way to skip the queue.
Amyway, this is a retelling of the Song of Roland (translation), a champion of the Franks, and his adventures around Europe as he tries to solidiy Charlemagne's empire. But not only must he win over his many foes, but his allies too if he is to be successful in his mission.
Let's start with the criticism - it's a bit slow of pace, and the formality of speech and so forth, while accurate, can seem plodding to the modern reader/listener. Don't let that put you of fthough. The story reeks of authenticity, and one can tell this was a labour of love for the author(s). There's lot of bloody battles, political intrigue, a murder-mystery, and all the posturing one would imagine from mefieval knights.
The narrator did a solid job, with a variety accents - at least as we would imagine them today, languages and characters.
I'd give this one something along the lines of 3.75/5
Amyway, this is a retelling of the Song of Roland (translation), a champion of the Franks, and his adventures around Europe as he tries to solidiy Charlemagne's empire. But not only must he win over his many foes, but his allies too if he is to be successful in his mission.
Let's start with the criticism - it's a bit slow of pace, and the formality of speech and so forth, while accurate, can seem plodding to the modern reader/listener. Don't let that put you of fthough. The story reeks of authenticity, and one can tell this was a labour of love for the author(s). There's lot of bloody battles, political intrigue, a murder-mystery, and all the posturing one would imagine from mefieval knights.
The narrator did a solid job, with a variety accents - at least as we would imagine them today, languages and characters.
I'd give this one something along the lines of 3.75/5
May 3, 2018
Solid four stars. Fans of King Arthur, medieval times, or Lord of the Rings will be interested in The Silver Horn Echoes.
Really a fantastic retelling of the "La Chanson de Roland". I say that, but I've never actually read the original poem. I want to now though. That is why I love Historical Fiction. A well written story will make me thirst for more knowledge.
*SPOILERS*
*I started writing a review but I ended up writing a retelling of the retelling with cuss words.*
France is ruled by our young champion Roland's uncle Charlemagne. Roland's daddy has dies under suspicious circumstances and his lovely mother (the King's sister) has quickly been remarried to an asshole. The asshole just happens to be from the bloodline that was previously ruling France. Yes of course he murdered Roland's daddy. He's also planning on murdering our Champion and the King and taking the throne. That has to wait until later though. Wars have to be fought first.
France is under attack from the Saxons in the north and the Saracens in the south. Roland and friends are kicking ass and chopping off heads everywhere they goes. He really earns that Champion title and a cool sword named Durendal. Super badass to have a sword with a name. Lots and lots of bloody epic battles.
In between wars, Roland falls in love with his BFF's little sister, Aude, and they immediately get married. Then he's off to war again. While he's gone slaying and killing, Aude has the task of finding proof that the asshole step dad is a murderer. So she's spending her time carrying around some liquid poison from shop to shop asking people if they know what it is. Good luck girl.
Roland and his merry band of slayers are fighting the Saracens in the south and they win some and lose some. Word comes that the Saxons up north are ready to fight again. So King Charles has to decide if he wants to stomp the Saracens and fight the Saxons after, or negotiate peace with the Saracens and fight the Saxons now. He makes a pros and cons list and decides on peace. He sends the asshole step daddy to negotiate. Which was a terrible idea, because the asshole uses the opportunity to further his agenda to kill Roland and King Charles.
So Charles packs up and starts moving the troops back home. Roland and friends get to hang back and make sure the Saracens behave themselves. Charles gives him the special horn to blow if there is trouble. They Saracens don't behave, of course, because asshole step daddy told them if they killed the Champion, he'd kill the king and the villains would win. Roland is the Champion though, so that's going to be a lot more difficult than the Saracen army thought. So, Roland and friends are taking down wave after wave of armies. Friends are dying, my favorite characters are dying, everybody is dying. Roland blows the horn. Miles away the king hears it and asshole daddy says "its just the wind". My eyes rolled so far back I saw my brain.
Roland dies blowing the damn horn. The king finally hears it CLEARLY. And then Aude rides in screaming at the king that asshole step daddy is a bad dude. Shit goes crazy. The king gets a scratch. But the asshole is finally caught.
Everybody is dead. Aude is sad. She drinks the poison and dies too.
The End
Really a fantastic retelling of the "La Chanson de Roland". I say that, but I've never actually read the original poem. I want to now though. That is why I love Historical Fiction. A well written story will make me thirst for more knowledge.
*SPOILERS*
*I started writing a review but I ended up writing a retelling of the retelling with cuss words.*
France is ruled by our young champion Roland's uncle Charlemagne. Roland's daddy has dies under suspicious circumstances and his lovely mother (the King's sister) has quickly been remarried to an asshole. The asshole just happens to be from the bloodline that was previously ruling France. Yes of course he murdered Roland's daddy. He's also planning on murdering our Champion and the King and taking the throne. That has to wait until later though. Wars have to be fought first.
France is under attack from the Saxons in the north and the Saracens in the south. Roland and friends are kicking ass and chopping off heads everywhere they goes. He really earns that Champion title and a cool sword named Durendal. Super badass to have a sword with a name. Lots and lots of bloody epic battles.
In between wars, Roland falls in love with his BFF's little sister, Aude, and they immediately get married. Then he's off to war again. While he's gone slaying and killing, Aude has the task of finding proof that the asshole step dad is a murderer. So she's spending her time carrying around some liquid poison from shop to shop asking people if they know what it is. Good luck girl.
Roland and his merry band of slayers are fighting the Saracens in the south and they win some and lose some. Word comes that the Saxons up north are ready to fight again. So King Charles has to decide if he wants to stomp the Saracens and fight the Saxons after, or negotiate peace with the Saracens and fight the Saxons now. He makes a pros and cons list and decides on peace. He sends the asshole step daddy to negotiate. Which was a terrible idea, because the asshole uses the opportunity to further his agenda to kill Roland and King Charles.
So Charles packs up and starts moving the troops back home. Roland and friends get to hang back and make sure the Saracens behave themselves. Charles gives him the special horn to blow if there is trouble. They Saracens don't behave, of course, because asshole step daddy told them if they killed the Champion, he'd kill the king and the villains would win. Roland is the Champion though, so that's going to be a lot more difficult than the Saracen army thought. So, Roland and friends are taking down wave after wave of armies. Friends are dying, my favorite characters are dying, everybody is dying. Roland blows the horn. Miles away the king hears it and asshole daddy says "its just the wind". My eyes rolled so far back I saw my brain.
Roland dies blowing the damn horn. The king finally hears it CLEARLY. And then Aude rides in screaming at the king that asshole step daddy is a bad dude. Shit goes crazy. The king gets a scratch. But the asshole is finally caught.
Everybody is dead. Aude is sad. She drinks the poison and dies too.
The End
February 26, 2018
I was sent a copy of The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland for review. It is historical fiction but comes off in such a way that it crosses over into the appeal for the fantasy crowd—it invokes kind of the feeling that Game of Thrones fans would have when watching Vikings. As a fan of both shows I enjoyed the story of Roland and it had similar intrigue to the later seasons of Vikings with the kingdoms of the region vying for dominance during the Dark Ages (even though the central figures are the characters rather than the countries).
The story is well researched and flows seamlessly—although the action never bogs down in history lessons. The action comes quick and regular during the campaigns and you never quite feel safe as the reader.
This is a solid book. Well written and well edited. I didn’t expect much from iUniverse (the publisher) in terms of quality (I’m pretty sure they have their own in-house product production) but they surprised me and the book is solid the whole way through (last time I had one from them the binding basically fell apart, hence my skepticism,) and the art and layout of the book is great.
I would recommend this book to fans of either fantasy or historical fiction without hesitancy. It’s not exactly appropriate for all ages (it’s not inappropriate for younger readers as George R R Martin’s books would be, but there is a lot of realistic violence and situations as one would expect given the context. Again, it feels like it comes right out of the Vikings TV show) but the text readers easier than Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire and Eging and Arnold might technically be better writers (as most authors without a huge following are since they will be scrutinized with a harsher metric than well-known authors are.)
Inside the Inkwell blog received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. I recommend you pick up a copy at your favorite bookseller or request it at your library.
The story is well researched and flows seamlessly—although the action never bogs down in history lessons. The action comes quick and regular during the campaigns and you never quite feel safe as the reader.
This is a solid book. Well written and well edited. I didn’t expect much from iUniverse (the publisher) in terms of quality (I’m pretty sure they have their own in-house product production) but they surprised me and the book is solid the whole way through (last time I had one from them the binding basically fell apart, hence my skepticism,) and the art and layout of the book is great.
I would recommend this book to fans of either fantasy or historical fiction without hesitancy. It’s not exactly appropriate for all ages (it’s not inappropriate for younger readers as George R R Martin’s books would be, but there is a lot of realistic violence and situations as one would expect given the context. Again, it feels like it comes right out of the Vikings TV show) but the text readers easier than Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire and Eging and Arnold might technically be better writers (as most authors without a huge following are since they will be scrutinized with a harsher metric than well-known authors are.)
Inside the Inkwell blog received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. I recommend you pick up a copy at your favorite bookseller or request it at your library.
May 3, 2018
The Silver Horn Echoes throughout disparate ages and battles as it inspires fighting men and women striving to fulfill their destiny and cement their name in history. This 304-page historical fantasy from co-authors Michael Eging and Steve Arnold opens the doors to the year 801 A.D. as Roland and his Frankish Army, with the help of several Moslem comrades, battle the Moors who occupy Saragossa in Arabic Spain. Roland's example inspires a Norman battle leader seeking a kingdom two centuries later, William the Conqueror in 1066 AD Britain. Will Roland become the champion his kingdom needs? A map is included to help the reader distinguish between the kingdom of the Franks (France and Germany) and the Moorish empire in the Spanish peninsula. The authors strike a good balance between historical detail, personal relationships (the love between Roland and his beloved wife Aude) and life-and-death action on the battlefield. An engaging and enjoyable read.
October 3, 2020
Michael Eging and Steve Arnold set us on an epic journey in a kingdom poised for war in The Silver Horn Echoes! The Dark Ages is a time of strife for the Frank kingdom, and young Roland has been entrusted with a task to save the peace. But Roland’s quest is made only more difficult by murderous plots of intrigue. I love this period of history, and Eging and Arnold really bring it to life with vibrant depth and feeling! My jaw dropped with the twists Roland’s journey took and the fateful decision he had to make. If you love a great historical piece packed with intrigue, come mount up in The Silver Horn Echoes!
October 14, 2017
This is the best of Micheal Eging’s book, so it’s a classic, and you should definitely read it. The book was totally entertaining, clean,and well-written. I highly recommend this book. Even if you have already read it.
April 14, 2019
Exciting adventure
Can fiction ever measure up to history? Yes, much of it is a story but Roland's story will pass down through the ages! This makes it seem so personal. You grieve for their loss! Great read!
Can fiction ever measure up to history? Yes, much of it is a story but Roland's story will pass down through the ages! This makes it seem so personal. You grieve for their loss! Great read!
January 18, 2026
Great Knight in Shining Armor
A very pleasant novel based on an 8th century, French epic
Poem. you will be glad that you read it.
A very pleasant novel based on an 8th century, French epic
Poem. you will be glad that you read it.
June 5, 2025
Well done Mr. Eging! I am familiar with the Song of Roland and The Silver Horn Echoes brings the poem to life with a gripping story. I appreciated the linking of the Song with William the Conqueror and the 1066 Battle of Hastings to show the enduring value of the Song of Roland to inspire loyalty, honor and valor. The characterization of the main and minor characters made them truly memorable.
If you enjoy history, especially the ill-named Dark Ages, then you will enjoy this book.
If you enjoy history, especially the ill-named Dark Ages, then you will enjoy this book.
April 2, 2018
The story is action-packed, but not at the expense of characterization. It is violent without being gruesome. There’s plenty of palace politics for people who like intrigue. I think that readers who like a good yarn set in the Middle Ages will enjoy this book.
Historical fiction is one of the most difficult genres, in my opinion. To be effective, the author has to be very, very knowledgeable about the historical period, and that knowledge needs to extend to a range of cultural factors including values, customs, rituals, tools, and patterns of daily life. In addition, the author has to find a way to write dialog that doesn’t sound contemporary, without sounding ridiculous. It is not easy! And, of course, the author has to take historical events which are often ambiguous and confusing and make a story out if it involving characters that modern people can understand. So, a difficult genre.
This book is a retelling of the Song of Roland, which itself a retelling in legend form (with “stretchers”, as Mark Twain would say) of historical events. I am familiar in a general way with the norms of the early Middle Ages, but not knowledgeable at all about the particular history behind this book. I looked up “Song of Roland” in Wikipedia, just out of curiosity. As far as I can tell, the retelling in this novel follows the “Song of Roland” pretty closely.
I thought the author did a wonderful job of taking the characters from the legend and making them human. What’s more, he did it within the values of the time. The characters are not contemporary people transported back in time. As near as I can tell, from my non-expert perspective, they behave within the values, now seen as sexist, bigoted, and militaristic, which were normal in medieval society. The author also creates a setting which feels authentic. The clothes, weapons, tools and technology all seems appropriate and accurate. It feels like a book written by someone who really knows the period.
I did have some trouble with the dialog. Dialog in a historical novel is tricky. It is not possible for the author to recreate the French spoken in the Middle Ages (assuming they spoke French), so the characters have to speak modern English. The trick is in the word choice; the dialog has to sound a little different from standard spoken English, but not different in a way that is awkward, stilted, or silly. For the most part, I thought the author was successful, though there are several jarringly contemporary phrases included in the dialog that startled me.
Historical fiction is one of the most difficult genres, in my opinion. To be effective, the author has to be very, very knowledgeable about the historical period, and that knowledge needs to extend to a range of cultural factors including values, customs, rituals, tools, and patterns of daily life. In addition, the author has to find a way to write dialog that doesn’t sound contemporary, without sounding ridiculous. It is not easy! And, of course, the author has to take historical events which are often ambiguous and confusing and make a story out if it involving characters that modern people can understand. So, a difficult genre.
This book is a retelling of the Song of Roland, which itself a retelling in legend form (with “stretchers”, as Mark Twain would say) of historical events. I am familiar in a general way with the norms of the early Middle Ages, but not knowledgeable at all about the particular history behind this book. I looked up “Song of Roland” in Wikipedia, just out of curiosity. As far as I can tell, the retelling in this novel follows the “Song of Roland” pretty closely.
I thought the author did a wonderful job of taking the characters from the legend and making them human. What’s more, he did it within the values of the time. The characters are not contemporary people transported back in time. As near as I can tell, from my non-expert perspective, they behave within the values, now seen as sexist, bigoted, and militaristic, which were normal in medieval society. The author also creates a setting which feels authentic. The clothes, weapons, tools and technology all seems appropriate and accurate. It feels like a book written by someone who really knows the period.
I did have some trouble with the dialog. Dialog in a historical novel is tricky. It is not possible for the author to recreate the French spoken in the Middle Ages (assuming they spoke French), so the characters have to speak modern English. The trick is in the word choice; the dialog has to sound a little different from standard spoken English, but not different in a way that is awkward, stilted, or silly. For the most part, I thought the author was successful, though there are several jarringly contemporary phrases included in the dialog that startled me.
January 6, 2018
“The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland” which I won through Goodreads Giveaways is a mythological retelling of the exploits of Roland and his peers in an age of chaos and war. Set in a medieval period, Michael Eging aand Steve Arnold blend betrayal, treachery, political intrigue, shifting alliances and the clash of Empires, combining them with heroic deeds and an honour code that opens as the Frank army under King Charles prepares for war against the Saxons. Although relegated to guard duty by his callous stepfather, Roland, the heir to Breton March is given word by a foreign ambassador of a second threat and he begins an epic journey as he takes the news to King Charles.
In a heroic confrontation with the Empire’s enemies Roland shows daring, courage and strategic wisdom rising as champion to protect King Charles. Yet the suspicion that his father was murdered gnaws at his heart, and longing to prove it he enlists the help of those most dear to him only to discover too late that ambition and subterfuge of the killer threatens the King and could turn the tide of war and destroy the kingdom.
Fast-paced and action-packed the plot is rich with vivid battle scenes as death and destruction follows the Frank army who wages war against her Saxon enemies as well as the Emir of Saragossa. Juxtaposed against the collision of armies on the battlefield is a clash of wills between young Roland and his stepfather Ganelon who not only is believed to have murdered his wounded father but conspires against the King. Intensity and suspense continually escalate and are enhanced by Aude’s determination to prove a vial holds poison; the spying of the cleric Petras; and Ganelon’s resolve to rid himself of Roland and take the throne.
The authors stir tension and your emotions not only with the love between Aude and Roland, his abiding friendship with Oliver, the loyalty of Demetrius and a once-heathen Dane as well as the heartbreak of loss of sons and a royal daughter, but also with the call to victory of a horn called “Oliphant”, the death of a favoured steed, and the ring of Roland’s sword Durendal awash in blood. There is even a touch of the mystical with the visitation of a ‘Shade’ and the portent of dreams while the tale rings with the strength of a Christian faith that keeps Roland and his friends strong in battle. Well-written and gripping from beginning to end, this epic tale flows smoothly towards an exciting ending that mixes bravery, self-sacrifice and painful tragedy.
Roland the heir to Breton March who seems lost after the death of his father is skilled in battle, single-minded in purpose, honorable and strategic in his thinking. Garnering loyalty from his men, his friends and family he’s highly respected by his King and peers. Oliver is his loyal, good-natured friend; the bold and loving Aude his wife; and the gentle, protective Gisela his mother. Yet it’s the ruthlessness, arrogance and ambition of Ganelon and the Emir of Saragossa that add a chill to the story. It is all these characters that breathe life and excitement into a story you can’t put down until finished.
I thoroughly enjoyed “The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland” which resonates with historic echoes of chivalry and valour, of battles and courtly intrigue in a bygone era.
In a heroic confrontation with the Empire’s enemies Roland shows daring, courage and strategic wisdom rising as champion to protect King Charles. Yet the suspicion that his father was murdered gnaws at his heart, and longing to prove it he enlists the help of those most dear to him only to discover too late that ambition and subterfuge of the killer threatens the King and could turn the tide of war and destroy the kingdom.
Fast-paced and action-packed the plot is rich with vivid battle scenes as death and destruction follows the Frank army who wages war against her Saxon enemies as well as the Emir of Saragossa. Juxtaposed against the collision of armies on the battlefield is a clash of wills between young Roland and his stepfather Ganelon who not only is believed to have murdered his wounded father but conspires against the King. Intensity and suspense continually escalate and are enhanced by Aude’s determination to prove a vial holds poison; the spying of the cleric Petras; and Ganelon’s resolve to rid himself of Roland and take the throne.
The authors stir tension and your emotions not only with the love between Aude and Roland, his abiding friendship with Oliver, the loyalty of Demetrius and a once-heathen Dane as well as the heartbreak of loss of sons and a royal daughter, but also with the call to victory of a horn called “Oliphant”, the death of a favoured steed, and the ring of Roland’s sword Durendal awash in blood. There is even a touch of the mystical with the visitation of a ‘Shade’ and the portent of dreams while the tale rings with the strength of a Christian faith that keeps Roland and his friends strong in battle. Well-written and gripping from beginning to end, this epic tale flows smoothly towards an exciting ending that mixes bravery, self-sacrifice and painful tragedy.
Roland the heir to Breton March who seems lost after the death of his father is skilled in battle, single-minded in purpose, honorable and strategic in his thinking. Garnering loyalty from his men, his friends and family he’s highly respected by his King and peers. Oliver is his loyal, good-natured friend; the bold and loving Aude his wife; and the gentle, protective Gisela his mother. Yet it’s the ruthlessness, arrogance and ambition of Ganelon and the Emir of Saragossa that add a chill to the story. It is all these characters that breathe life and excitement into a story you can’t put down until finished.
I thoroughly enjoyed “The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland” which resonates with historic echoes of chivalry and valour, of battles and courtly intrigue in a bygone era.
May 10, 2018
I enjoyed reading The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland as it was filled with all sorts of intrigue that drove me to finish the book in order to know the fate of the Frank kingdom and Roland. I enjoyed the fast pace of the story and I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys medieval style fiction!
June 11, 2018
Review for The Silver Horn Echoes-A Song of Roland
This book caught me by surprise. I am not a big fan of historical fiction, but I thoroughly enjoyed The Silver Horn Echoes- A Song of Roland.
After the first chapter, I became very intrigued with the main character Roland and his duty to serve King Charles and his countrymen. Roland is the son of the late William, count of the Breton March. Roland agonizes over the death of his father and suspects that his stepfather Ganelon is responsible for William’s demise. Still in his youth, Roland is determined to expose his father’s murderer.
After receiving word that the emir of Saragossa intends to take Aquitane from Francia , Roland makes the decision to betray the orders to stay put. Roland decides to ride to warn King Charles of this news. It is that decision that takes the story in a different direction and sees Roland transform from a young man to a warrior, leader and champion.
Several themes that stood out in this book included love, courage, and betrayal.
-Roland’s love for his late father, his mother and his new wife Aude, and love for his country and friends continued to shape the decisions he made throughout the battles he fought in.
-Betrayal was a significant theme , revealed by Ganelon through his dealings with Marsilion and his desire to rid the kingdom of Roland and his influence.
-Courage displayed by Roland and his men allowed their king to stay safe and remain in power, despite Marsilion not staying true to his word. It is this courage that drove them in the final battle to make the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Roland’s wife Aude was another character that made an impression on me throughout the book. Displaying strength of character, courage and will, her persistence exposed Ganelon for who he really was and saved King Charles from death and more heartache.
I found myself engaged while reading about the battles, surprised at the decisions made by several characters, heartbroken over the loss of lives and inspired by the brave men and women who served their country till the very end. This book did not disappoint.
( I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.)
This book caught me by surprise. I am not a big fan of historical fiction, but I thoroughly enjoyed The Silver Horn Echoes- A Song of Roland.
After the first chapter, I became very intrigued with the main character Roland and his duty to serve King Charles and his countrymen. Roland is the son of the late William, count of the Breton March. Roland agonizes over the death of his father and suspects that his stepfather Ganelon is responsible for William’s demise. Still in his youth, Roland is determined to expose his father’s murderer.
After receiving word that the emir of Saragossa intends to take Aquitane from Francia , Roland makes the decision to betray the orders to stay put. Roland decides to ride to warn King Charles of this news. It is that decision that takes the story in a different direction and sees Roland transform from a young man to a warrior, leader and champion.
Several themes that stood out in this book included love, courage, and betrayal.
-Roland’s love for his late father, his mother and his new wife Aude, and love for his country and friends continued to shape the decisions he made throughout the battles he fought in.
-Betrayal was a significant theme , revealed by Ganelon through his dealings with Marsilion and his desire to rid the kingdom of Roland and his influence.
-Courage displayed by Roland and his men allowed their king to stay safe and remain in power, despite Marsilion not staying true to his word. It is this courage that drove them in the final battle to make the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Roland’s wife Aude was another character that made an impression on me throughout the book. Displaying strength of character, courage and will, her persistence exposed Ganelon for who he really was and saved King Charles from death and more heartache.
I found myself engaged while reading about the battles, surprised at the decisions made by several characters, heartbroken over the loss of lives and inspired by the brave men and women who served their country till the very end. This book did not disappoint.
( I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.)
May 12, 2018
The Silver Horn Echoes: A Song of Roland is a reimagining of the inspiration behind the medieval “La Chanson de Roland.” It’s a fast-paced work of medieval historical fiction with lots of action. Set in the time of Charlemagne, Roland, a young noble, marginalized by his conniving step-father, finds himself the Emperor’s champion through acts of bravery and initiative in a time of war. Roland is forced to have his wits about him as he must deal with the obvious external threats, but also threats to destabilize the kingdom from within.
The story is well-written and well-researched. It does take you into its world in its descriptions of culture, dialogue, the aesthetics, and the grittiness. There are nice relationship elements, although they take a backseat to the action. The story has a lot of characters and does require patience to let it develop to keep track of the various storylines. If you love medieval historical fiction or action/military fiction, this book should be interesting to you.
3.5 Stars
The story is well-written and well-researched. It does take you into its world in its descriptions of culture, dialogue, the aesthetics, and the grittiness. There are nice relationship elements, although they take a backseat to the action. The story has a lot of characters and does require patience to let it develop to keep track of the various storylines. If you love medieval historical fiction or action/military fiction, this book should be interesting to you.
3.5 Stars
June 8, 2020
Based upon an eleventh century epic poem, this fictional adaptation of the background behind a major battle between the Franks under the rule of Charlemagne and the Muslim realm in Spain, a campaign that praises the heroic actions of Roland, Charlemagne’s nephew and the head of the rear guard. The tale delves into interfamily loyalty, competition, and betrayal within Charlemagne’s empire, as it battles other realms for growth and power. The authors have done a good job of building the characters and underlining suspenseful storylines leading up to the main battle, keeping avid readers of medieval historical fiction enticed along the journey. The novel encouraged me to actually research the original epic poem in Wikipedia, where I discovered this novel has earned a paragraph at the end of the webpage. Kudos.
May 31, 2018
Interesting story
It takes you back to medieval times, and it's quite the journey. The story is action-packed and filled with a lot of characters. In some ways, the multiplicity of plots and abundance of characters can get carried away, but this story works. It has a rawness about it, and it brings the characters to life, almost bringing the Dark Ages into a new realm. I liked the story, and there were some parts that thrived more than others. All in all, a great and interesting story, and I would read more by these two authors.
It takes you back to medieval times, and it's quite the journey. The story is action-packed and filled with a lot of characters. In some ways, the multiplicity of plots and abundance of characters can get carried away, but this story works. It has a rawness about it, and it brings the characters to life, almost bringing the Dark Ages into a new realm. I liked the story, and there were some parts that thrived more than others. All in all, a great and interesting story, and I would read more by these two authors.
May 10, 2018
While I enjoyed this book I ended up taking a star off because I found it a bit predictable and lacking in the unique spark that truly makes a good story great. Now that is not to say it was bad as I did finish the whole book in less than a week I just think it could have been truly spectacular. Roland was a cool character that I ended up feeling for and who I spent the book rooting. The ending was well chosen for the book and I would not be opposed to reading a sequel to it in the future.
September 7, 2017
wonderfully written.. I tend to read technical books for my work... but found this book a lot of fun to read.... It was so wonderfully written I felt like I was actually in the scenes as I read the book! Highly recommend this book !
October 5, 2018
Very good historical fiction, of 9th Century Europe! I loved the characters, and the story. Lots of love, betrayal, war, and courage. It's not an era I've spent much energy looking up, but one of fair significance.
March 14, 2025
Great writing, fantastic plot, engaging story, a must read!
April 20, 2023
Are you prepared to embark on a harrowing expedition to the Dark Ages, an era of immense upheaval and the cataclysmic clash of mighty empires?
Then buckle up and hold on tight, because The Silver Horn Echoes by Michael Eging and Steve Arnold is a medieval journey that will take you on a wild ride through the world of knights, battles, and political intrigue.
If you're a fan of historical fiction and epic tales, this is one book you won't want to miss!
Paying homage to "La Chanson de Roland" The Silver Horn Echoes is full of intense battles and complex characters that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Amidst the chaos of the Dark Ages and the collision of empires, the Frank kingdom prepares for war. Young Roland, heir to the Breton March, finds himself stuck with the task of guard duty until a foreign emissary entrusts him with vital information about a new threat to the kingdom. With everything he loves at stake, Roland must embark on a dangerous journey to protect his people from swift destruction.
But Roland's challenges don't end there. In addition to facing merciless enemies, he must also uncover the identity of a murderer who lurks in the halls of power, ready to tear apart the kingdom reborn under the great Charlemagne.
To become the champion his kingdom needs, Roland must overcome war, intrigue, and betrayal. Will he be successful in his quest? Or is the kingdom, and everything he holds dear, about to fall into a dark abyss?
I have been looking forward to reading this novel for quite some time… and I was definitely not disappointed!
The reader is instantly transported back in time and immersed in the sights, sounds, and customs of the dark ages. History is brought to life through the eyes of authentic characters who face real-life challenges and triumphs. Creative storytelling at its best!
The plot of The Silver Horn Echoes blends action, intrigue, and romance in a masterful way. At its heart, the book is a classic tale of a hero's journey, as Roland, the young knight tasked with saving his kingdom from destruction, must confront not only external enemies, but also his own inner demons.
The story weaves together multiple storylines, each with its own unique twists and turns. From Roland's efforts to foil a plot to harm the king to his battles against foreign invaders, to his struggle to come to terms with his own past, the book is a thrilling and engrossing ride from start to finish.
The battles in particular are some of the most gripping and intense scenes in the book, with the authors using vivid descriptions and attention to detail to transport the reader right into the heart of the action. But even beyond the action, the plot is infused with a sense of deep emotion and heart, with themes of love, honor, and loyalty resonating throughout.
The characters in the novel are also very cleverly portrayed. They feel real and authentic with their own unique goals, strengths and flaws. For instance, Roland is a multifaceted character who is at once brave and ambitious, but also struggling to come to terms with his past and his family's legacy. Such a realistic portrayal goes a long way in creating genuine characters who we will not soon forget as readers.
The Silver Horn Echoes is a thrilling and engrossing work of historical fantasy that is sure to captivate readers from beginning to end. With its complex characters, gripping plot, and masterful storytelling, it is a book that is not to be missed by anyone who loves tales of knights and heroes, battles and intrigue, and the clash of empires in a bygone age.
5 out of 5 Knightly Stars for this one!
Then buckle up and hold on tight, because The Silver Horn Echoes by Michael Eging and Steve Arnold is a medieval journey that will take you on a wild ride through the world of knights, battles, and political intrigue.
If you're a fan of historical fiction and epic tales, this is one book you won't want to miss!
Paying homage to "La Chanson de Roland" The Silver Horn Echoes is full of intense battles and complex characters that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Amidst the chaos of the Dark Ages and the collision of empires, the Frank kingdom prepares for war. Young Roland, heir to the Breton March, finds himself stuck with the task of guard duty until a foreign emissary entrusts him with vital information about a new threat to the kingdom. With everything he loves at stake, Roland must embark on a dangerous journey to protect his people from swift destruction.
But Roland's challenges don't end there. In addition to facing merciless enemies, he must also uncover the identity of a murderer who lurks in the halls of power, ready to tear apart the kingdom reborn under the great Charlemagne.
To become the champion his kingdom needs, Roland must overcome war, intrigue, and betrayal. Will he be successful in his quest? Or is the kingdom, and everything he holds dear, about to fall into a dark abyss?
I have been looking forward to reading this novel for quite some time… and I was definitely not disappointed!
The reader is instantly transported back in time and immersed in the sights, sounds, and customs of the dark ages. History is brought to life through the eyes of authentic characters who face real-life challenges and triumphs. Creative storytelling at its best!
The plot of The Silver Horn Echoes blends action, intrigue, and romance in a masterful way. At its heart, the book is a classic tale of a hero's journey, as Roland, the young knight tasked with saving his kingdom from destruction, must confront not only external enemies, but also his own inner demons.
The story weaves together multiple storylines, each with its own unique twists and turns. From Roland's efforts to foil a plot to harm the king to his battles against foreign invaders, to his struggle to come to terms with his own past, the book is a thrilling and engrossing ride from start to finish.
The battles in particular are some of the most gripping and intense scenes in the book, with the authors using vivid descriptions and attention to detail to transport the reader right into the heart of the action. But even beyond the action, the plot is infused with a sense of deep emotion and heart, with themes of love, honor, and loyalty resonating throughout.
The characters in the novel are also very cleverly portrayed. They feel real and authentic with their own unique goals, strengths and flaws. For instance, Roland is a multifaceted character who is at once brave and ambitious, but also struggling to come to terms with his past and his family's legacy. Such a realistic portrayal goes a long way in creating genuine characters who we will not soon forget as readers.
The Silver Horn Echoes is a thrilling and engrossing work of historical fantasy that is sure to captivate readers from beginning to end. With its complex characters, gripping plot, and masterful storytelling, it is a book that is not to be missed by anyone who loves tales of knights and heroes, battles and intrigue, and the clash of empires in a bygone age.
5 out of 5 Knightly Stars for this one!
January 26, 2025
Are you prepared to embark on a harrowing expedition to the Dark Ages, an era of immense upheaval and the cataclysmic clash of mighty empires?
Then buckle up and hold on tight, because The Silver Horn Echoes by Michael Eging and Steve Arnold is a medieval journey that will take you on a wild ride through the world of knights, battles, and political intrigue.
If you're a fan of historical fiction and epic tales, this is one book you won't want to miss!
Paying homage to "La Chanson de Roland" The Silver Horn Echoes is full of intense battles and complex characters that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Amidst the chaos of the Dark Ages and the collision of empires, the Frank kingdom prepares for war. Young Roland, heir to the Breton March, finds himself stuck with the task of guard duty until a foreign emissary entrusts him with vital information about a new threat to the kingdom. With everything he loves at stake, Roland must embark on a dangerous journey to protect his people from swift destruction.
But Roland's challenges don't end there. In addition to facing merciless enemies, he must also uncover the identity of a murderer who lurks in the halls of power, ready to tear apart the kingdom reborn under the great Charlemagne.
To become the champion his kingdom needs, Roland must overcome war, intrigue, and betrayal. Will he be successful in his quest? Or is the kingdom, and everything he holds dear, about to fall into a dark abyss?
I have been looking forward to reading this novel for quite some time… and I was definitely not disappointed!
The reader is instantly transported back in time and immersed in the sights, sounds, and customs of the dark ages. History is brought to life through the eyes of authentic characters who face real-life challenges and triumphs. Creative storytelling at its best!
The plot of The Silver Horn Echoes blends action, intrigue, and romance in a masterful way. At its heart, the book is a classic tale of a hero's journey, as Roland, the young knight tasked with saving his kingdom from destruction, must confront not only external enemies, but also his own inner demons.
The story weaves together multiple storylines, each with its own unique twists and turns. From Roland's efforts to foil a plot to harm the king to his battles against foreign invaders, to his struggle to come to terms with his own past, the book is a thrilling and engrossing ride from start to finish.
The battles in particular are some of the most gripping and intense scenes in the book, with the authors using vivid descriptions and attention to detail to transport the reader right into the heart of the action. But even beyond the action, the plot is infused with a sense of deep emotion and heart, with themes of love, honor, and loyalty resonating throughout.
The characters in the novel are also very cleverly portrayed. They feel real and authentic with their own unique goals, strengths and flaws. For instance, Roland is a multifaceted character who is at once brave and ambitious, but also struggling to come to terms with his past and his family's legacy. Such a realistic portrayal goes a long way in creating genuine characters who we will not soon forget as readers.
The Silver Horn Echoes is a thrilling and engrossing work of historical fantasy that is sure to captivate readers from beginning to end. With its complex characters, gripping plot, and masterful storytelling, it is a book that is not to be missed by anyone who loves tales of knights and heroes, battles and intrigue, and the clash of empires in a bygone age.
5 out of 5 Knightly Stars for this one! *****
Then buckle up and hold on tight, because The Silver Horn Echoes by Michael Eging and Steve Arnold is a medieval journey that will take you on a wild ride through the world of knights, battles, and political intrigue.
If you're a fan of historical fiction and epic tales, this is one book you won't want to miss!
Paying homage to "La Chanson de Roland" The Silver Horn Echoes is full of intense battles and complex characters that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Amidst the chaos of the Dark Ages and the collision of empires, the Frank kingdom prepares for war. Young Roland, heir to the Breton March, finds himself stuck with the task of guard duty until a foreign emissary entrusts him with vital information about a new threat to the kingdom. With everything he loves at stake, Roland must embark on a dangerous journey to protect his people from swift destruction.
But Roland's challenges don't end there. In addition to facing merciless enemies, he must also uncover the identity of a murderer who lurks in the halls of power, ready to tear apart the kingdom reborn under the great Charlemagne.
To become the champion his kingdom needs, Roland must overcome war, intrigue, and betrayal. Will he be successful in his quest? Or is the kingdom, and everything he holds dear, about to fall into a dark abyss?
I have been looking forward to reading this novel for quite some time… and I was definitely not disappointed!
The reader is instantly transported back in time and immersed in the sights, sounds, and customs of the dark ages. History is brought to life through the eyes of authentic characters who face real-life challenges and triumphs. Creative storytelling at its best!
The plot of The Silver Horn Echoes blends action, intrigue, and romance in a masterful way. At its heart, the book is a classic tale of a hero's journey, as Roland, the young knight tasked with saving his kingdom from destruction, must confront not only external enemies, but also his own inner demons.
The story weaves together multiple storylines, each with its own unique twists and turns. From Roland's efforts to foil a plot to harm the king to his battles against foreign invaders, to his struggle to come to terms with his own past, the book is a thrilling and engrossing ride from start to finish.
The battles in particular are some of the most gripping and intense scenes in the book, with the authors using vivid descriptions and attention to detail to transport the reader right into the heart of the action. But even beyond the action, the plot is infused with a sense of deep emotion and heart, with themes of love, honor, and loyalty resonating throughout.
The characters in the novel are also very cleverly portrayed. They feel real and authentic with their own unique goals, strengths and flaws. For instance, Roland is a multifaceted character who is at once brave and ambitious, but also struggling to come to terms with his past and his family's legacy. Such a realistic portrayal goes a long way in creating genuine characters who we will not soon forget as readers.
The Silver Horn Echoes is a thrilling and engrossing work of historical fantasy that is sure to captivate readers from beginning to end. With its complex characters, gripping plot, and masterful storytelling, it is a book that is not to be missed by anyone who loves tales of knights and heroes, battles and intrigue, and the clash of empires in a bygone age.
5 out of 5 Knightly Stars for this one! *****
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