King Olaf's Kinsman A Story of the Last Saxon Struggle against the Danes in the Days of Ironside and Cnut   By: Charles W. Whistler (1856-1913)

In "King Olaf's Kinsman", Charles W. Whistler takes readers on a gripping journey through the tumultuous times of Ironside and Cnut. Set against the backdrop of the last Saxon struggle against the relentless Danish invaders, this historical novel transports us to a bygone era filled with political intrigue, epic battles, and personal sacrifices.

The story revolves around the protagonist, Edgar, a noble kinsman to King Olaf of Norway. Edgar finds himself caught in the middle of a power struggle for the throne, as Danish forces led by Cnut threaten to overtake England. As the conflict unfolds, Edgar's loyalty to his family, his king, and his country is put to the ultimate test.

What makes Whistler's narrative truly captivating is the intimate exploration of Edgar's internal conflicts. The author skillfully delves into his fears, doubts, and desires, painting a vivid picture of a complex character grappling with his own demons while entangled in the larger drama of war. Edgar's transformation throughout the novel is palpable, as he evolves from a young, hesitant warrior to a brave leader who embraces his fate.

Whistler's prose is both elegant and evocative, transporting readers seamlessly between the grandeur of battlefields and the intimacy of personal relationships. The author's attention to historical detail is commendable, offering readers a genuine sense of the time period and the struggles faced by the Saxons. From the landscapes to the political machinations, every element of the story is meticulously rendered, immersing the reader into this rich and vivid historical world.

While the plot is engaging and the characters well-drawn, the pacing occasionally falters. Some sections of the story feel slightly rushed, while others linger for longer than necessary. However, these minor flaws do not detract significantly from the overall reading experience.

Overall, "King Olaf's Kinsman" is a compelling historical novel that expertly captures the essence of the last Saxon struggle against the Danes. Whistler's meticulous research, coupled with his powerful storytelling, makes this book a must-read for fans of historical fiction who crave immersive narratives set in tumultuous times. A worthy addition to any historical fiction lover's bookshelf, "King Olaf's Kinsman" is a testament to Charles W. Whistler's skill as a master storyteller.

First Page:

The deeds of King Olaf recorded in this story of his kinsman are therefore from the Norse "Saga of King Olaf the Holy," and the various incidents are assigned as nearly as may be to their place in the sequence of events given from the death of Swein to the accession of Cnut, in the contemporary Anglo Saxon Chronicle, which is our most reliable authority for the period... Continue reading book >>