An historical, action novel with a strong romantic thread.
837 A.D. Sixty Viking ships appear on the horizon and the marauders come murdering and torching. Ireland's Prince Malachy demands the leaders build an army, but nothing is done while the Vikings sweep across the land. His daughter, Melcha, is finding that it's the worst possible time to fall in love. Malachy takes matters into his own hands by marrying a warrior princess and building an army. But when the Viking king surrounds his fortress and imprisons Melcha's lover, it seems Ireland has no hope. It's only when Malachy devises a plan involving beautiful Melcha that Ireland stands a chance. Based on a true story, VIKINGS IN DUBLIN won't fail to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Excerpt
As she dried Melcha off, Melcha stared across the beach. Down a ways, a man stood at the edge of the surf with a hand shielding his eyes. Melcha narrowed her gaze, but saw nothing but waves. A tangle of voices made her realize that people were congregating alongshore. With closer inspection, Melcha could barely see the dots on the horizon.
“Fool,” one man said to another. “Why should ships be so alarming?”
“So many? At this time of day?”
“We’re expecting a major shipment from Gaul.”
“How many ships are needed to carry four hundred barrels of wine?”
As the dots grew larger, there seemed to be more of them. Twelve. Fifteen. A small fleet. Melcha couldn’t drown the feeling of panic when a woman ran screaming back to the town. Melcha counted thirty ships.
Suddenly, Melcha felt her arm being wrestled from her body. “What are you doing?” Malachy shouted. “Don’t you know there’s a general alarm?” Melcha realized the monastery bell had been ringing all this time. He pulled Melcha, tripping, behind.
“What’s happening?” Tullia asked.
“There might be an attack.”
Professional Reviews
Truly legendary
I love historical fiction novels, especially when they are based on obscure verbal folklore or religious traditional practices. This story intrigued me from the very beginning; it has both types of legends. It is rich in history and full of gorgeous descriptions of a beautiful flourishing country. It is obvious from the fullness of the descriptions of each character and their daily lives that the author has done her research. However, the seamless integration of historical and biblical facts makes for an extremely interesting and entertaining story. The characters are richly fleshed out and likeable (or in some instances, dislikeable!) and easy to "see" in your mind's eye. This makes them easy to care about as well. The reader will get readily wrapped up in the story and transported to the shores of Ireland, ready to fight the Vikings. Don't forget your sword- you might need it!
Pleasantly Surprised
True to its claim, this book kept me on the edge of my seat. I was pleasantly surprised, particularly since the genre is not usually the type I'm drawn to. It's not a difficult read, nor is it too easy. I really enjoyed the balance (allowing me to finish it in two days!). I mostly enjoyed the tie to historical events and how the writer gave enough description to arouse an imagination, but not to drown the reader. There were certainly portions of the book that gave insight to the brutality of the Norsemen as well as the desperation of the people of Ireland. Worth the read.
Wonderful and Brilliant
Wow! When I received this book in the mail I didn't know what to expect. Then of course you take it out of the box and read it! I couldn't put the book down. I was up till 2am in the morning sometimes trying to read. The book captivated me and is an excellent read for people who love adventure in a novel! Have to say LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! Can't wait till the next one!
Tralee, Ireland. September 1948.
An arrogant, and highly agitated, priest arrives home after 40 years.
Days later he's dead. Suicide? Or did his past catch up with him?
A delightfully rare Historical Novel. 85% a biography of a spy, musician, mother and her neice trapped behind German lines in World War I. This background led to a diplomatic post in World War II. Aged 92, Vera disclosed her past life one year before