Finn’s Fate
When a fire destroys their homestead, Finn and his two older brothers Torsten and Gunnar set off on a journey that they hope will bring them riches, rewards, and a better life. Their life of adventure takes them into the realm of King Erik and slavery.
That’s not where this tale ends. Finn and his brothers escape and find themselves part of the Viking tradition, raiding villages and towns in what is now the UK to find silver and slaves in order to return wealthy enough to marry or just have a better life.
Finn’s Fate has been placed in the ‘Young Adult’ market and from what I can see, the only reason it’s there is because it isn’t quite as gory as some other Viking tales. That’s not to say it isn’t full of action, far from it. Beheadings and fights aplenty! It’s an extremely gripping book that entices the reader to keep going onto the next chapter despite the clock now reading 2am and an early morning start beckoning.
Finn’s Fate works well as that bridging book, the introduction to more adult material while still being not quite as bloody as some others.
Michael Wills has obviously meticulously researched this story, the locations, the weather, the clothing, food; everything is given life and Wills is very much a man of the sea. His knowledge of sailing makes the intrepid trio’s journey come alive. Definitely recommended.
