The Blade from the Barrow: The High Fire Saga Episodes I-III Omnibus (Ebook)

This retelling of the Norse legend captured me from start to finish. We get a feel for the varying cultures and geography of a past Scandanavia, and we're able to imagine the thrill of being a seafarer in more isolated times.

Rains' Hervor is surly yet relatable. He masterfully fills in the gaps, showing us the believable motivations behind her actions and attitudes. In his efforts to blend humor into an otherwise dark and violent tale, Rains shows that he hasn't lost his connection to the original tellers of these stories. Entertainment is an essential part of spinning his yarn.

I had limited knowledge of the sagas and one of the enjoyable parts of this novel was searching online for more details of the supporting cast and their kingdoms. I very much fell down the Wikiipedia rabbit hole after being introduced to these characters.

A fun and exciting read.
(Originally posted on Goodreads)

There's a plethora of fantasy books out there, and the Viking-Fantasy sub-genre certainly isn't lacking in selection. That being said, there isn't exactly an over saturation of literature on the Saga of Hervor specifically. This book comes as a welcomed addition to the genre and definitely sets itself apart from other similar titles. The author's taken some liberties with character portrayal and events in the story, but there's plenty of lore to flesh out the Saga's unique characteristics.

The book has significant momentum right from the start; I suspect the author intends it as a way to mirror Hervor's explosive personality and relentless chase for Tyrfing (the cursed sword). Though she's awfully violent and defiant, Hervor is relatable. She's well written, and her decisions and actions make sense given the context. This isn't to say that she's predictable, but she's believable.

Hervor isn't the only formidable character in this novel. There's a definite spotlight on King Gunther and Prince Sigurd, whose friendship is truly epic. I found the book absolutely SHINES during the many dialogues these two nobles have; bloodshed, gore and all manner of vice abound in this book, so it's super refreshing to read witty and hilarious exchanges between a smug fop and his towering beast of a friend.
Without spoiling too much, there's a wicked confrontation with a dragon, perhaps the best I've ever read. This scene did it for me, I was hooked from the start, but this just toppled the scales (pun intended), and for that, I'm giving it a 5/5 stars.

Dear author, we want a sequel please!!
(Originally posted on Goodreads)

The Blade from the Barrow is my second book, that I read from Rains and I wasn’t disappointed at all. I got what I was expecting: a beautifully written norse fantasy book which was keeping me busy and made me turn the pages till the very end.
I always like reading about myth, legends, gods and beliefs, it’s a pleasure to find a good book having these elements. I didn’t know a lot about the vikings and their myth before it was an absolutely great read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
(Originally posted on Amazon)

I liked this story. It was an interesting story based in the past with hints of myths and fantasy. It was fun to read and kept me going to the end to see how it would end. I enjoyed it. The characters were fun, I liked their interactions, and the setting were cool.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
(Originally posted on Amazon)

Action page turner. This book was great. I was completely caught b up in the story. Hervor was awful but then you kinda wanted to root for her. She was a captivating character. Does end as a cliffhanger.

I received this book for free for a voluntarily review.
(Originally posted on Amazon)

This is the 3rd book I've read written by Timothy J.R. Rains; he has done a great job at writing a good book; I will definitely be reading more of his books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
(Originally posted on Amazon)

How have I not fond this author before. Love this story and I'm ready to read more.
(originally posted on Amazon)

I gave this four blades because overall it kept me engaged and turning pages and Vikings - what is there not to like?
I read this like it was water and I was fresh from a week in the desert. I devoured it then found myself slowing down at a scene or event. Then repeated the cycle.

The characters are well crafted and I easily found myself loathing or loving them. At times I would have liked a bit more familial/background details - how they connected, why their bonds were so strong, little things (I am a detail person)
The world-building was spot on - I felt like I was there - could hear the blades sound as they swished or feel the heat emanating from the beast
The story(s) is fast-paced and action-packed
Great retelling of the myth

Hervor, our main character is on a quest to acquire Tyrfing - a sword that is her birthright. And when she says nothing in Hel will stop her from acquiring it - she is not joking. I disliked Hervor with a passion - It is possible she will "evolve" as she gets older but at the moment she is a selfish child with narcissistic tendencies, a short temper, and no common sense who needs to be knocked down a notch or two - Currently that is not even in the cards

Prince Sigurd's tale of friendship with King Gunther and his quest to "right" his wrongs against the king run concurrently with Hervors journey
Though there is more behind the trial given by his old friend Gunther

The multiple tales eventually converge
(Originally posted on Amazon, Google Play, and Goodreads)

I enjoyed the story but there are many incorrect words (in the dedication, incite instead of insights, later severe instead of sever).
The humor of the characters and dialog is refreshing in the ancient setting for these adventures. That is very good.
I think it's a fun tale and would do very well with a bit more editing.
I will look to read the next installment
(Originally posted on Amazon)

This was a good book and I enjoyed reading it. The characters were interesting, and the storyline flowed well and kept me turning the pages. The world building was nice and done well. Overall, I would recommend this book. I received this as an ARC, and this is my honest review.
(Originally posted on Amazon)