Loki's Deceit by Donovan Cook

Loki’s Deceit by Donovan Cook

Release: 22 September 2023
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Source: Rachel’s Random Resources
Find it at: Barnes & Noble , Amazon , Apple Books

A king, old and frail.

A challenger filled with vengeance. A kingdom’s fate at stake.

Sven the Boar is Jarl of Ribe once more. He and Charles try to settle into their new lives, but trouble and treachery are never too far away.

Tormented by recent events, Charles struggles to adapt to life amongst the heathens that mock his Christian God and the arrival of a priest from the south only makes things worse.

Meanwhile, there is burden on Sven with the responsibilities of being Jarl again and protecting his grandson from those hunting him.

When forced into an alliance with King Horik’s nephew who is raising an army to challenge his uncle for the throne of Denmark, Sven makes an important decision.

As the threat of war becomes real, Sven rides to fight a battle that will change the destiny of Denmark.

But whilst he fights, will Charles remain safe or are other games in play that threaten him?

About the Author:

Donovan Cook is the author of the well-received Ormstunga Saga series and the Charlemagne’s Cross series, both of which combine fast-paced narrative with meticulously researched history of the Viking world and are inspired by his interest in Norse Mythology. His first novel, was Son of Anger, which follows the journey of Ulf Bear-Slayer as he seeks to avenge his family’s deaths. And he has since written two more books in the Ormstunga Saga series.

Donovan’s birth was in South Africa but grewup in England. There his fascination with Medieval History, especially the Vikings and Norse Mythology, took root. In his free time, Donovan loves to read, watch rugby, and go for walks with his wife and their French Bulldog, Joey.

In 2022, Donovan signed a four-book contract with Boldwood Books and the first novel of his new series, Odin’s Betrayal. Boldwood Books published the book in April 2023. They will publish book two of the Charlemagne’s Cross series Loki’s Deceit, in September 2023. You can visit Donovan’s website at donovancook.net

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Loki’s Deceit Review:

The author vividly depicts the ferocity of Viking-age warfare, showcasing Sven’s unwavering resolve and underscoring the pivotal role of strategic thinking amidst the chaotic battleground.

The author also paints a rich and evocative portrait of its characters, revealing their trials and tribulations within a historically immersive backdrop. It emphasizes themes of identity, a sense of belonging, and the conflict arising from the clash between individual desires and societal expectations. Charles’s profound journey to harmonize his Christian faith with the harsh realities of his newfound home constitutes the narrative’s central emotional crescendo.

I liked Charles in the lead. This author acquaints us with Charles’s daily life in Ribe, his burgeoning interest in Christianity, and his connection with Father Leofdag. It also hints at potential conflicts and challenges concerning his faith and relationship with his grandfather. Moreover, it also shows Charles’s arduous struggle to reconcile his faith with the prevailing Viking culture that envelops him. It adeptly captures the palpable tension between Christianity and Norse paganism within Ribe. I also enjoyed Sven’s return and vigorous defense of Charles, which mark a pivotal turning point in the narrative, signaling that Charles’s presence as a Christian in Ribe will continue to be a potent source of conflict and tension.

There were other exciting moments, like how the author lays the foundation for an impending clash between Guttrom’s forces and King Horik’s army, with Sven resolutely driven by his vendetta against Horik. The palpable tension among the characters and the ominous uncertainty surrounding the battle’s outcome enrich the narrative’s depth.

Furthermore, the story tantalizingly concludes with a cliffhanger that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. Overall, “Loki’s Deceit” represents a captivating addition to the series, skillfully keeping readers engrossed and eager for what comes next.