A novel based on the true story of a Viking raider who, over 30 years, acquired a fortune in English silver
In the churchyard of the village of Orkesta, just north of the city of Stockholm, there are two eleventh century rune stones. One of them, in a few brief words, tells the world of the extraordinary achievements of Ulf of Borresta, who lived nearby. During a long career as a Viking raider, he became extremely rich on the proceeds of extortion: Danegeld. The carved runes mention the names of real Norse historical figures with whom he ravaged the English countryside. These names can be dated and the vicious raids and bloody battles where the Danegelds were won, identified.
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Reader Reviews
Review by Mary Anne Yarde, October 2024
Yarde Reviews & Book Promotion
Discover the captivating tale of Ulf of Borresta in Michael E. Wills’ latest book, “For the Want of Silver.
The story is gripping and progresses with a distinct narrative arc. The opening of this novel sets up the conflict and introduces the main characters, Ulf and Erik. Ulf and Erik’s growth from captive children to warriors shapes their path towards becoming successful individuals. The events that occur in this story are connected in a logical manner, and the pacing effectively maintains reader engagement.
The characters in this novel are well-developed and believable. Ulf is a highly likeable character, although he can come off as arrogant, especially in his interactions with his best friend Erik, whom he perceives as less intelligent. However, without Erik’s support, Ulf’s journey from captive child to warrior, farmer, husband, and father would have been impossible. Despite occasional difficulties, Ulf and Erik share a strong bond. Erik’s unwavering loyalty means that he will always be there to support Ulf, especially in times of trouble. It’s undeniable that without Erik, Ulf would not have lived to see his children grow up. As an adult, Erik is a shameless alcoholic which puts him and Ulf at odds on several occasions, but he will do everything in his power to keep Ulf physically safe, even if that comes at his own expense. Regardless of the highs and lows in their relationship, Ulf and Erik have a deep understanding that they can rely on each other in times of great necessity. The depiction of this friendship by the author is skilful, and Ulf and Erik make a formidable duo.
In this novel, there are numerous antagonists. Agmunder and others like him hold a personal vendetta against the boys. When the boys mature into men and take up arms, they soon grasp the notion that the risks of war surpass the enemy they confront, putting them at risk of injury and death from their own allies. Likewise, greed, pride, and envy are dangerous foes. They must share the silver obtained from their adversaries equally, but it is up to each person to secure their own silver from those who would try to steal more to satisfy their greed. Ulf’s comprehension of this peril prompts him to devise strategies for securing the silver in a manner that would make it extremely difficult to take.
Wills has illustrated a Norse society that was highly structured, with defined social classes, but there was substantial social mobility. Ulf is a prime illustration of this mobility. Initially a freeman, he is taken prisoner, transitions into a warrior, and eventually establishes himself as a wealthy farmer. Despite his life being illustrated in stone for all eternity, the reality was that his destiny was not tied to his circumstances of birth.
This novel portrays numerous battle scenes, Ulf visits England thrice, and earns his fair share of the Danegeld! Ulf’s growing confidence as a warrior is juxtaposed with the heartbreaking loss of friends, emphasizing the grim truths of war. The intricacies of warfare are thoroughly examined, including fear, adrenaline, and excitement. The Anglo-Saxon army, as depicted by the author, consists not only of trained soldiers but also farmers. The farmers must have been truly terrified when they encountered such a strong adversary, causing the reader to pause and contemplate. True to expectations, the book contains intense scenes of violence, but the author emphasizes the aftermath of the battle more rather than the battle itself.
The amount of effort put into researching this era is apparent in the attention to the historical detail.
For the Want of Silver by Michael E. Wills is a novel that deserves to be read. Wills has breathed new life into Ulf, bringing his story to a new generation of readers. This book absolutely deserves a spot on your bookshelf.
OnlineBookClub.org on 19 January 2024
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. Mayang Bature
Jaffareadstoo on 22 September 2023