The Swan’s Road by Garth Pettersen

My thoughts upon finishing this book were that:
* Young boys/teenagers would love it
* Young girls/teenagers might love it
* It brought to mind the book Otto of the Silver Hand even though I have not read it in decades
* The term “saga” fits it well
* The journey of Harald is one in which he learns a great deal while traveling not only about those he meets on the road but also about himself
* The style of writing added to the story and made it feel I was in the past though the writing style might not appeal to all
* The story was well researched and plotted
* There was plenty of action
* I enjoyed it

Harald, son of Cnute, is accompanying his father to Rome to attend the coronation of Conrad the II as Holy Roman Emperor. While procuring provisions for the ship Harald encounters Selia, a young Friesian woman, who appears in need of saving from her traveling companions. Leaping to her aid and assisting her away the two then make away together and thus begins the saga of Harald and Selia and all that follows.

There are many adventures to be had on the way to Rome. There are battles against nature and humans and beasts and self. There is evil to thwart and good friends to be made. There is a fun fair and unfairness meted out by evildoers and those who believe they are doing God’s will. There is kindness and it’s opposite. There are new lands to see with new flavors to try. This is one story that kept the hero and heroine busy from beginning to end with more happening than many books I have read.

I can perhaps see a sequel to this book in which Ravya or Florio would have their stories told. As they were stars in this book and fictional they would be perfect characters to have their stories continued in future books.

I did enjoy this book and believe it will appeal most to older teens. I want to thank the author for ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars ( )