I was attracted to this book to experience a historical novel set in Iceland. I enjoy books from this period and was interested to discern if or how the Icelandic perspective may differ. Set at the beginning of the 11th century the story largely revolves around three main people; Freyer, a farmers wife, Arinbjorn the son of a respected farmer and King Olaf Tryggvason of Norway.

It is a debut novel that in essence is a quest to avenge a death. It however captures a time when the old gods are being replaced by Christianity and there are powerful political and brutal moves to ensure this is effected. Sargent deftly navigates these and how words and actions are turned against some unassuming folk to make the religious narrative fit political purpose.

Arinbjorn is young and principled promising to avenge the death of a good man, even though he is not really skilled for the task, but his passion and his good friend support his desire to succeed against the odds. He is a likeable fellow that you want him to see him accomplish so he can return to his more settled farming life. There is much treachery, with brutal and realistic fights both on land and at sea - these cleverly capture battle tactics of such times. I felt invested in all the characters, none are bluntly good or bad, you can appreciate their motives, be them misguided or not and they feel reflective of this point in history - something not easy to achieve. A lot of the relationships are layered and complicated, in a way which gives them greater authenticity. I was immersed in the story, where it took the characters, which was well paced even until the end. The denouement isn't rushed and was bittersweet as reality often is. Those that enjoy some Nordic adventures should enjoy.

I have just finished Faith of their Fathers and I have to say that this book is so different from the usual Viking and Norse saga novels that I am used to, but in a good way. Set in Iceland at the beginning of the 11th century the story revolves around three people Freyer A farmers wife, Arinbjorn the son of a respected farmer and King Olaf Tryggvasonof Norway. The story centers on the religious changes in Iceland and the conflict between Christianity and the established pagan gods and beliefs. Plenty of action and a great plot sets this novel apart from the usual Viking set novels.
A great read that I feel enhances this genre amd gets you thinking. Loved it!
I would like to thank the Author Samuel M. Sargeant, NetGalley and Neem Tree Press for an advance copy of this excellent title

If you like Viking sagas you will enjoy this.
Takes place in Iceland where Olaf the King of Norway is trying to convert all Icelanders to Christianity by what even means.
This even involves killing Christians but laying blame of others.
In doing so he incurs the wrath of an Icelandic farmer Arinborn who seeks revenge and justice for the death of his foster father.
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This book is perfect for those who like to read about battles, fights, ships, politics, and history.
When a new religion forms and then spreads it always changes the lives of ordinary people. Some people decide to accept a new religion, some are forced to do so. But the consequences do change the history forever.
"We must all have the same law and the same religion. If we tear apart the law, we tear apart the peace". It`s hard to disagree with this statement, don`t you think? A homogenous society sticks together. Religion divides people so a multicultural, multireligious society will never be as strong because in times of hardship, everyone will stand for their own. We've seen this in history so many times!
Apart from politics and social aspects, we can also find in this book an interesting love story, including queer one. The queer part is carefully outlined, we don´t see details of this relationship but we see the consequences of it in a particular type of community at a specific point in history. Freya and Njall are a married couple who have their struggles, mostly because Njall is homosexual, and this has never been seen as something normal. So he has to hide his preferences, but he is not very good at it. So this eventually brings him and Freya trouble.
Women in this book are quite interesting. They somehow live in the shadows of their husbands, but it`s obvious that they are quite powerful. Freya is in charge of a farm. Tyra, the wife of Olaf king of Norway is a victim, or is she? Not even once there was a reference to her as the queen. Yet she has real power over Olaf. Even Bera, an unmarried woman, who lives alone and is considered to be a witch, is respected by everyone. All are strong and underappreciated women.
I hope you will enjoy this novel just as much as I did.

Set in 11th century Iceland, this is part crime novel and part historical fiction about trying to spread Christianity and the power lust of Kingston Olaf of Norway. It was intriguing reading about such a different time, however, some themes are eternal. Love, lust, revenge and yearning for power all come into this book. Initially I was worried about keeping track of the characters because of the unusual names, but it was quite easy in the end. Readers who enjoy some different fare occasionally should enjoy this book. Thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy to read and review.