C.R May

At the most basic reading, the title pretty much covers the subject of the stories presented within. May takes a look at various aspects of the events leading up to the famed 1066 battle of Hastings and makes a small change to history as we know it and telling a tale based on that change, mostly focusing on that, then talking through the differences and what it means to the particular history thereby created. In most cases, Hastings, or its none occurance, is as far as May takes it but one show more of the stories is presented from the point of view of a student taking a history exam, looking at how the Greater Scandinavian empire might not have occurred. All in all, a great set of tales, even if I'm not sure I fully agree with the blackening of Harald Hardrada's name show less

Very good series opener

I enjoyed this book, Bloodaxe, a lot and hope the rest of the series will continue the momentum of the first book. The characters seem real, and the story has a basis in actual history with the author's added flair. Off to get the second book with optimism.

A fitting end to an entertaining series

If you like historical fiction, and Vikings, this may be for you. The saga ends as historically as accurately, and quite satisfactory.