The Viking Gael Saga by JTT Ryder
Old World Heroism
March 2023
155 pages

The Viking Gael Saga opens with a duel. A debt is owed and must be paid. The debt is challenged, and the duel will settle the matter once and for all. Tragically Asgeir ends up serving as an oarsman in Ulf the Old's crew. Adding salt to the wound, a stranger now wields his father's blade. It is easy to see why thoughts of revenge burn through young Asgeir's mind.

Asgeir is a callow youth, more farmer than warrior. He stands in the famed shadow of his father. As an oarsman in Ulf's crew, Asgeir is swept from one tight spot to another—often being taken prisoner. Escaping and on the lam, he consistently finds himself in trouble time and again, all of which culminates with another duel. I can certainly appreciate the symmetry of it all.

The Viking Gael Saga is a very short novel, only clocking in at a little above 150 pages. It begins with much promise, even hinting at Asgeir's future fame and acumen. Although, I found it dry and a very slow burn. Unfortunately, I have grown away from coming-of-age stories.

Ryder is an archaeologist specializing in the Viking Age and Celtic Iron Age. The knowledge this background brings to his writing does not go unnoticed.

If historical Viking stories are your jam, be sure to check out The Viking Gael Saga, and be on the lookout for Thor's Wrath, due for release in mid-September.