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Kristian, Giles - 'Raven: Odin's Wolves'
Hardback: 320 pages (Apr. 2011) Publisher: Bantam Press ISBN: 0593061667

What a glorious tale! Another delicious helping of the adventures of Raven and his blood brothers, to get your heart thumping. There is a distinct smell of sea-salt in the air, as the Norsemen and their growing band of 'others' set off once again, in search of silver and glory. ODIN'S WOLVES is the best Raven adventure yet. The only not-so-good thing about it is the fact that it is the last in the trilogy. I will be sad to say goodbye to Raven, Sigurd and the others. They are a lively, brave and fun-loving bunch; quick to crack jokes and insult each other but fiercely loyal and reliable at the same time. Once again, Kristian has produced a real treat that is dripping with excitement and tension right from the very first page.

After their escape from Frankia and their heavy loss of treasures, as well as comrades, and not to mention the daring rescue of Cynethryth from the nuns, Sigurd and his men are looking for ways to replenish their sea-chests and fill up on fame along the way. Their adventures this time round see them in a very different part of the world; rubbing shoulders with 'Blaumen' and fighting gladiators in Rome being but a few of their amazing experiences. At times, it is only knowing that the story is being told by Raven in his old age that helps you through, as it looks as if his time is up on several times occasions he gets into tight spots. The wolfpack ends up in Miklagard, or Constantinople, having been hired to overthrow a tyrant and replace the rightful king on his throne. Filled with lust for fame and glory, the men battle tremendous odds to achieve their goal. Awesome.

Kristian is such a skilled wordsmith that you can taste the blood in the air and hear the sounds of fighting, as well as the cries of the wounded, while you read. A truly perfect way to lose yourself in a different time and take refuge from the Scottish summer. I hope that this isn't the last we will see of Raven and his friends. I would so love to find out what happens to them next. Highly recommended.

Amanda C M Gillies, Scotland
August 2011

Details of the author's other books with links to reviews can be found on the Books page.
More European crime fiction reviews can be found on the Reviews page.




last updated 7/08/2011 13:16