Reviews by John H.

Follow this link to listen to an interview with the author - [Link removed - login to see]

This interview was carried out over Skype so unfortunately you will encounter a few blips while listening.

John Halsted is a Shelfarian. If you have any questions send them to him at John H.

Legend of the Last Vikings is an historical action and adventure novel set at the end of the Viking age. Its not about Vikings, but rather about the journey of a group of Vikings who "go-a-viking" one last time.

The Action and Adventure takes place from Norway across the European Steppe, down the mighty Dniepr River to Kiev. Then across the Pontus Euxinus (Black Sea) and up the Don river to Sarkel. Portage across the Khazarian Way and down the Volga river past the ancient city of Itil to Astrakhan. Across the Caspian Sea to Gorgan in modern day Iran then up the Bolshoi river and Oxus (Waxus) river past Chorasmia to Bactria on the Silk Route.

From there the journey proceeds along the Silk Route through the ancient towns of Kashgar, Aksu and Karashaer to the abandoned desert city of Lou Lan, THATS ENOUGH! You'll have to read it to find out the rest and what happens.............

The book is a beautifully bound 511 page hardcover with historical companion, place name lexicon, maps and character descriptions. For more information about the subject matter, reviews or to purchase, visit the book's website at [Link removed - login to see]

As yet I am waiting for Shelfari to also load books from Amazon.UK and ABE Books. So until then it wont be appearing on Shelfari. Pity........

Here is a review done before joining Listal:

EXCELLENT! The book tells a story that captures the reader on several levels. What appears to be an historical novel becomes an adventure set in a background of rich experiences and wide diversity. This adventure, alongside the stories of the different settlements and religions, and that of a moving love story, means that this book provides a compelling and exciting journey of discovery for both the characters in the book and the reader themselves.

Laura Stannard

Here is a review which was done prior to joining listal:

This is a wonderful blend of fact and fiction, putting flesh on the dry bones of history, demonstrating the insatiable restless human desire for discovery, adventure and the pursuit of knowledge.
Be drawn into a classic sojourn which spans many religions and beliefs and incorporates the ingredients of friendship, dignity, honour, love, betrayal and greed; against the backdrop of a hostile environment which gives no quarter – just what one expects from a Viking.
An intellectual read, leaving the door open with a promise of more to come … riveting.

Paul Sweetland