Review of For the Want of Silver

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Mayang Bature
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Review of For the Want of Silver

Post by Mayang Bature »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "For the Want of Silver" by Michael E Wills.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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"For the Want of Silver" by Michael E. Wills is a story about the Norseman, Ulf, who had a friend, Eric, of the same age as him but was bigger and stronger, though not quick-witted. They lived in a place called Borresta with their parents. The villagers were freemen, and most had the right to at least one field. Their lives turned around when they got into a fight with one of the tax collector’s warrior escorts as he tried to take something of value from Ulf's home. This story is about these men as they navigate through life as adults, fighting battles all for the love of silver, and ultimately finding love.

"For the Want of Silver" is a fictional narrative delving into the historical events involving the Danes and Saxons. The story unfolds with a vivid portrayal of betrayals, battles, and brutality, particularly through the life of the warrior, Ulf. It captures an era marked by power struggles and clashes between those aspiring for wealth and power and those endeavoring to maintain it. The succession of monarchs exemplifies the turbulent political landscape. The book sheds light on the Norse practice of raiding other countries, attributing it to the challenging living conditions and poverty prevalent in their cold northern homeland.

The book's charm lies in its intricate portrayal of Viking life, skillfully crafting characters like Ulf and Eric who evolve through various stages of their journey. The detailed accounts of battles not only showcase the brutality of the era but also emphasize the characters' resilience and growth. The author's ability to transport readers to different settings, from Borresta to the raid on Geat Village and beyond, is a testament to his descriptive ability and adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling.

This book not only delves into the thrill of conquest but also explores themes of love, as seen in the exploration of Ulf's relationships, especially with a Saxon woman, loyalty, and the pursuit of one's desires. In essence, "For the Want of Silver" stands out for its engaging narrative, well-crafted characters, and historical authenticity, making it a compelling and enjoyable read for those captivated by Viking tales and historical fiction. I really enjoyed this book, and I have nothing negative to say about it. It was exceptionally well edited because I found no errors in it. Considering all these, it is befitting to rate "For the Want of Silver" a perfect 5 out of 5 stars.

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For the Want of Silver
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Donaking
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Post by Donaking »

This review provides a detailed and positive review of "For the Want of Silver" by Michael E. Wills. The reviewer praises the book's engaging narrative, well-crafted characters, and historical authenticity. The author's ability to transport readers to different settings and the exploration of themes such as love and loyalty are also highlighted. Overall, the review rates the book as a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, making it appear as a highly recommended read for fans of Viking tales and historical fiction.
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