Dragons from the Sea (The Strongbow Saga)

This is a review of the third book in the Strongbow Saga following the trials and tribulations of Halfdan. The story continues on following Halfdan during the Viking raid along the river Seine. In this book Halfdan is distracted from his oath of revenge by both the circumstances surrounding the Viking raid and his infatuation with his prisoner.I stated in my review of Book 2 that I was critical of the book in that some of the plot is a little unbelievable. Halfdan is just a bit too lucky, just a bit too good with the bow, just appears to be in the right place just a bit too often. I felt that in this book that was even more the case and started to push the bounds of reality into the impossible. I don't think that the author needed to make Halfdan exceptional for the story to work.The other point I made with my last review and that is worth making again is that the books are quite short, this one included. When you buy a physical book, you can see the size and thickness of the book. With an e-book, it is a little harder to do determine how big the book is. I enjoyed the book to the extent that I felt is wasn't completed before the story ended. In other words I felt the book could have been longer/bigger although I understand from other reviewers that this was written for young adults/teens so that may have some influence on the book length. I was also under the impression that this was book three of a three book series. That doesn't appear to be the case and Halfdan's story will continue in the future.I have thoroughly enjoyed the series to date, but I am disappointed the author is not a prolific writer and we may have to wait some time for Halfdan to continue on his path to exact revenge.Nevertheless, I would like to recommend this book as a worthwhile read and a good yarn.

Ok, now I get it when reviewers said the main character was too much. The one problem I have with this book (and possibly the whole trilogy) is the main character is untouchable! Rather that be in the middle of fighting or with his fellow vikings! Throughout the book he is put up against situations that he miraculously escapes from. Does it get predictable after the first few chapters? A little bit. Honestly Halfdan is beginning to get under my skin. I'm rooting for the Franks!With that being said, the story is really good and fast paced (much faster than book one.) It seems most of the development took place in book one which has left more room for action and adventure, which is nice. (And there is loads of it) Very few (and I stress that) authors, that I have read, can transport the reader as good as Roberts. I felt as if I was there smelling the smoke and tasting the salted pork or hearing the swords strike and arrows fly. Such amazing skill he has putting life into words.Not quite a 4 but better than a 3. So, 3.5 stars.This book reminds me of a summer blockbuster with some over-the-top action that leaves you saying 'really?' But in the end still entertaining enough that you can walk away satisfied. I'm equally as anxious to read book three as I was to read book two.

I read the first of these recently, and really enjoyed it. I believe these are actually classified as books for teens or older teens - clearly targeted at boys and young men. The last time I fell into one of those categories, the Beetles were still together...Nonetheless, I really like these books.This is a book I was wishing wouldn't end so quickly. The storytelling is outstanding, even if the character development is a bit simple. But again, these books are written for young men / teenagers - I'm not sure they'd appeal to that group as much if the author got into more complex character development. This book (and the series) would be one to recommend right alongside "The Three Musketeers" by Dumas for teenage boys.I understand that Judson Roberts has struck out on his own, leaving the publishing company who published his first 3 books. He is preparing to publish his fourth book on his own. I LOVE to see authors doing this - especially authors like Roberts who are good and proven writers. I'd like to encourage readers to support these literary entrepreneurs, who are the equivalent of a small business-person trying to eek out a living among multinational giants.I loved the first 2 books, and have now finished the third. If you like adventure stories, pick these up and read them, and then find ways to stay connected to Roberts as he rolls out his next in the series - his first as an independent.

Filled with action, as well as, innter thoughts of the main character, Halftan. Here you follow Haftan as he ventures out on his own to gain knowledge of the world beyond his immediate homeland.Thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It's nice to read something action packed, have honest 'feelings' and a bit of 'romance' without feeling somehow, dirty after! In fact, enjoyed all three so much, I went from book 1, 2, 3 in just a matter of days... each time looking forward to the next. Now, I am eagerly waiting for the next two to follow.I would say, the only negative I can give is the length of each. Each was a bit too short. Each ending, although leaving you to want more.... left me feeling there 'should' have been a bit more in each book. A bit left unsaid. In my mind, these three books, rather than three should have been made into two. It is the only reason I gave it a 4, rather than 5 star.I look forward to reading the final two in this series and more from this author!

Dragons From The Sea is Judson Roberts' second book in The Strongbow Saga and starts off where Viking Warrior (Book One) finished. Halfdan has arrived at Hedeby, a large Nordic town and trade centre, where he sets about the task of joining the crew of `The Gull', a Viking ship making ready to head for war in Western Frankia.Judson's research of the era is apparent as he takes Halfdan into battle with the Franks. Halfdan needs all his skill and resourcefulness when he is sent out to scout the land for the main Viking army in this extremely entertaining read.Halfdan's character becomes even more likeable in this second book as we discover his traits of honour and loyalty, that often appear to land him in trouble, yet earn him the respect of the men around him.This compelling sequel to Viking Warrior quickly has the reader well and truly hooked on the saga and reaching out for `The Road to Vengeance', book three of The Strongbow Saga.

Although I've enjoyed reading the first two books in this series, the second has just come to an abrupt end part-way through. Mr Roberts, do you not think you would earn a loyal following and get better reviews if you wrote one book instead of three crudely carved up editions? Disappointed in the way these books are written. Obviously a talented writer who, unusually for a new author, has no care or thought for his readers. Gaining as much revenue as possible has clearly pushed this author beyond what any reader would find reasonable. Read book one at your peril as you'll pay three times for what is so clearly one book chopped into three parts.

I have just finished these books via my kindle, Historical Fiction is my favourite genre, and at the moment anything Viking! These were good books, although a little short for my liking. I have looked at Judson Roberts website and these books have been taken out of print, why I am not really sure. Halfdan is a likeable Viking (it's nice to hear the other side for a change), who has an interesting story. I hate waiting for the new books to come out, and sincerely hope that Mr Roberts, at least finishes book 4 before the end of this year, before I forget how much I enjoyed this series.

This set of books is as good if not better than Bernard Cornwall books. It feels really real, you get sucked in and the story feels so real. You get a sense that these books are very well researched and the characters feel comfortable. Tall these books are truly great, the only problem is I get through the books so quickly.

This is a very exciting book having read the 1st book I had to find the second in the series. Very easy to read but keeps the interest going. I am a great fan of this saga type of book. Would recommend it.