An unusual Viking saga. Most such fiction is written by men and tells largely of blood-soaked battles, the lopping off of limbs and disembowellings. Hartsuyker's book has its share of violent action as it relates the story of its hero Ragnvald Eysteinsson, who survives a near-drowning by his enemies to hitch his fortunes to the rising star of Harald Fairhair, a teenage warrior and would-be king of all Norway in the ninth century. It also has several strands of narrative - mostly focused on Ragnvald's sister Svanhild as she strives to assert herself in a male dominated world - that are less predictable. This is a novel that creates a more nuanced and richer portrait of Viking society, with its complex web of rituals, laws and debts of honour, than the genre usually provides Sunday Times
The Half-Drowned King Series
Immerse yourself in the brutal world of Viking warfare and political intrigue set against the backdrop of medieval Norway. This saga follows a sibling duo determined to reclaim their family's lost honor and power. Facing betrayal, injustice, and the machinations of kings, the protagonists navigate a fractured land yearning for unity. It's an epic tale of courage, loyalty, and the fight for freedom in a violent age.






Recommended Reading Order
- 1
- 1
Le ossa di Ardal
- 576 pages
- 21 hours of reading
Da quando il padre è morto in battaglia, Ragnvald difende sé e la sorella e attende la maggiore età per recuperare le loro terre. Quando il capitano della sua nave tenta di ucciderlo mentre tornano da una scorreria, Ragnvald capisce però che è stato il patrigno a ordire l'agguato. Non è facile avere giustizia nella Norvegia vichinga, dove centinaia di piccoli re competono per un lenzuolo di terra. E se da Ragnvald ci si aspetta che sia disposto a morire per il proprio onore, dalla sorella Svahild ci si aspetta un buon matrimonio. Non è questo però il destino che lei desidera e quando Solvi, l'acerrimo nemico del fratello, le offre l'opportunità di sfuggire alla crudeltà del patrigno Svanhild deve compiere l'estrema scelta: famiglia o libertà.
- 2
The Sea Queen
- 464 pages
- 17 hours of reading
The second novel in this epic trilogy about Ragnvald, right-hand man to King Harald of Norway, and his tempestuous, driven sister, Svanhild.
- 2
The Sea Queen
- 480 pages
- 17 hours of reading
Set against the backdrop of Viking history, this saga weaves together romantic adventure and political intrigue, appealing to fans of epic tales. The narrative captures the essence of beloved works like Outlander and Game of Thrones, blending rich historical detail with captivating characters and themes. Expect a thrilling journey that explores the complexities of love and power in a tumultuous era, drawing inspiration from Norse mythology and historical fiction to create an unforgettable reading experience.
- 3
The Golden Wolf
- 432 pages
- 16 hours of reading
The third and final book in an epic Viking story - a brother and a sister pitted against each as King Harald struggles to hold his kingdom together.
- 3
The Golden Wolf
- 448 pages
- 16 hours of reading
The gripping conclusion of Ragnvald and Svanhild's journey in The Golden Wolf Saga weaves together thrilling action and rich historical detail, reminiscent of epic tales like "Game of Thrones" and "Outlander." As their fates intertwine, the story delves into the complexities of their characters and the ancient world they inhabit, culminating in a stunning finale that reveals the ultimate destinies of the siblings.