In the first four volumes of the Book of the Gods , Fred Saberhagen brought a new perspective to the classic gods of Greek mythology. Now the legendary creator of the Berzerker and Lost Swords sagas turns his gaze northward toward an entirely different pantheon of immortal deities . . . the fearsome and ferocious gods of Valhalla. Haraldur the Northman once joined Jason on his fabled quest for the Golden Fleece, but now he wants nothing more to do with gods and adventure. Returning to his homeland for the first time in many years, he hopes only to settle down on a farm of his own-until he comes across an impenetrable wall of eldritch fire and a lovesick youth determined to breach the wall at any cost. Behind the towering flames, he is told, lies a beautiful Valkyrie trapped in an enchanted sleep, as well as, perhaps, a golden treasure beyond mortal reckoning. It is the gold that tempts Hal to agree, against his better judgment, to assist the youth in his quest. But to find away past the fiery wall, they must first brave gnomes, ghosts, and the wrath of the gods themselves. For a mighty battle is brewing, and Hal soon finds himself caught up in a celestial conflict between Thor the Thunderer, Loki the Trickster, and, most powerful of all, Wodan, the merciless Lord of Battles!
The book was enjoyable and I look forward to another level of this series if one is every written.
Fred Saberhagen at his best
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 16 years ago
The story is placed in the (future/past?)in a rather backward society. Various super high tech masks were created in the deep past that give the wearer superpowers modeled after various "gods" of earth's past. "Valhalla" (Nordic heaven) is not all it seems to be up close. Is something amiss? Norse myth is the backdrop of of a story of adventure and danger. Saberhagen's book has just the right amount of humor, the characters are likable, and the story moves along at a good pace. It is a very good read.
GREAT BOOK
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
My friend gave me this book for Christmas. At first, the book didn't look appealing but after reading the first page, I was hooked! If you like lord of the rings, you'll for sure love this book. If not, you'll enjoy the actions, the suspense, the stories, plots. The stories unfolds in such an exciting way. Every page will make you wanna read more. 320 pages....yeah right...it seemed to me like I read only like 100....i want more! This book is great! I loved it a lot. You shoudl read it too, I'll bet you enjoy it too! Email me back on what you think! [email protected]
action packed fantasy thriller
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 22 years ago
Following his journey as an Argonaut, Hal comes home to settle down in a mundane environment though he still wants wealth. His hope of boredom ends before he reaches his destination as he finds his path blocked by a strange looking fire. He plans to go around the magical induced flames, but first talks with a melancholy man called Baldur. The stranger tells Hal that he expected to attain Valhalla by dying in combat, but instead sits on the wrong side of the flame that contains his beloved Valkyrie Brunhild and a treasure. Unable to ignore the possibility of wealth, Hal joins Baldur on his quest to get to the other side.When the gnomes begin their annual trek to Valhalla, Hal and Baldur follow. However when they reach the fabled city, the partners are shocked to find Valhalla in ruins. Woden seems mentally incompetent, and Thor and Loki are missing. Someone has to lead the Valhalla warriors in combat against the invading giants. Alas Hal and Baldur become embroiled though the former wants gold while the latter desires his Valkyrie.The Fifth Book of the Gods, GODS OF FIRE AND THUNDER, is an action packed fantasy thriller. The story line follows the exploits of the key two characters driven in different ways. Though overall quite an exciting extension to mythology, the plot at times feels disjointed yet this engaging tale will please fans of the author and Norse mythology lovers with its creative force.Harriet Klausner
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