Hosting J.G. Harlond on this review tour has been one of the most thrilling rides of the year. Author of ‘Local Resistance’, ‘The Empress Emerald’ and ‘The Chosen Man’ trilogy (work-in-progress) Harlond writes page-turning historical crime fiction that weaves fictional characters into real events. She is particularly interested in aspects of power; international intrigue and domestic politics are significant elements in her adult fiction.
‘The Doomsong Sword’, a novel for younger (and not-so-younger) readers, is based on part of the old Norse Volsung Saga.
Book Description
Formats: Paperback, Kindle Edition, eBook
Print Length: 364 pages
Publisher: LUCERO BOOKS
Facing up to destiny can be lonely, silent, and secret.
In the darkest years of Long Ago in the cold, cold North, there were two young men who were very much alike; and very different in all that mattered most. Davor was a spinner of stories; Sigurd was an earl. Both were destined to confront an evil dragon – but only one of them slew the beast.
The Doomsong Sword is coming-of-age, mythic fantasy based on the ancient Norse Volsung Saga, where the real tests of character aren’t always what they seem.
Book Review
The Doomsong Sword is a treasure. A classic everyone should read. Harlond has done a marvelous job inventing a mythical place full of thick-furred wolves, dwarves, the semimortals of Asgard and leather-winged dragons with tongues of flame. The main character is a young man called Davor who, although frequently tricked and trapped, goes from strength-to-strength in his quest. One adventure sees our friend traveling with the lightfoot troublemaker Loki, whose element is fire. Davor must beat a path to Andvari’s treasure horde to get much needed gold. With Master Odo who can read thoughts and greedy shapeshifters on the prowl, how can Davor possibly overcome so many obstacles with so many more adventures to come?
I gave this book five stars because of the ingenious word pictures that sum up warm fires and good friends. It’s true that one young life can make a huge impact on the world, not because he has power. But because he has the edge. Readers will appreciate the heroism of Davor and enjoy rich words and exciting adventures. It’s truly a compelling read.
(Bookworm 5* Review)
This hugely entertaining tale will appeal to those who enjoy the likes of The Hobbit and The Chronicles of Narnia. Based on Viking legends, Davor is a reluctant young adventurer who embarks on a journey which turns into a quest. Directed by the inscrutable traveller Master Odo, and accompanied by a Wolf, Davor encounters all manner of odd events and dangerous situations. The story is cleverly told and there is great depth to the characters, particularly Davor who, just like the sword in the title, is forged with considerable skill. An exciting adventure in the best tradition with a wonderful cast of princes, dragons, dwarves – and of course treasure! This fabulous story will enchant older children and adults alike.
About the Author
Jane Harlond is a member of the Historical Novel Society and the British Society of Authors. Originally from the English West Country, she has travelled widely and is now settled in rural Andalucía, Spain.
Other publications
‘Dark Night, Black Horse’ is a true short story about a young boy who rescues his father’s favourite black stallion during the Spanish Civil War. This is now available in Spanish as ‘Noche Oscuro, Caballo Negro’.
Website: http://www.jgharlond.com
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