{"title":"Frans G. Bengtsson","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrans G. Bengtsson masterfully transports readers to vivid historical landscapes, blending rich detail with compelling narratives. His works, such as \u003cem\u003eThe Long Ships\u003c\/em\u003e, immerse you in adventurous tales set against the backdrop of medieval Europe, where honour and daring define every chapter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFans of historical fiction and crime thrillers will appreciate Bengtsson’s keen eye for character and atmosphere, as well as his ability to weave suspense and intrigue into timeless stories. His writing offers a thrilling journey through history’s shadowy corners and heroic exploits alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"the-long-ships","title":"The Long Ships","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Long Ships\u003c\/em\u003e by Frans G. Bengtsson is a gripping and adventurous tale that masterfully brings to life the daring exploits of the Vikings during the tenth century. Set against a richly detailed backdrop, this epic saga traverses the vast landscapes of Scandinavia, Spain, England, and Ireland, capturing the essence of an era filled with exploration and conquest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe narrative centres around Red Orm, an indomitable and resourceful young Dane who finds himself thrust into a life of peril and fortune. Abducted from his homeland by a crew of fierce Viking marauders, Red Orm quickly adapts to the relentless life at sea, where adventure lurks at every corner of the dragon-prowed ships.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs his journey unfolds, Orm is captured by the Moors in Spain, where he is exposed to new cultures and faces the challenges of servitude under the Caliph of Cordova. The journey is rich with encounters that challenge his mettle and broaden his horizons, introducing him to the opulence and fervour of Moorish society.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOrm's adventures are far from over as he escapes to the rugged coasts of Ireland. Here, he finds himself immersed in the strange world of Christian monks, whose beliefs and customs offer a stark contrast to his own Viking roots. These encounters deepen his understanding of the diverse tapestry of human societies, and they prepare him for his return to Scandinavia, where he is soon embroiled in the political machinations of kings and clans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThrough battles, feuds, and alliances, Red Orm becomes a leader whose influence shapes the destiny of nations. His journey is marked by cunning tactics, charismatic leadership, and a series of fortuitous events that elevate him to wealth and a newfound faith. As he returns to his Danish home, now a wealthy man and a reluctant Christian, Orm faces fresh trials that test his resilience and resolve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrans G. Bengtsson crafts a tale filled with wit, adventure, and captivating characters. \u003cem\u003eThe Long Ships\u003c\/em\u003e stands out as a vibrant work of historical fiction, illustrating the complexity of Viking life with both authenticity and humour. It invites readers to embark on a voyage through time, met with riveting battles and unexpected turns, helmed by one of literature’s most captivating protagonists. Whether you are a fan of historical epic tales or simply in search of a thrilling read, this novel promises to enchant and invigorate with every turn of the page.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ingram Book Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45799069384940,"sku":"9781590173466","price":61.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781590173466.jpg?v=1728224368"},{"product_id":"the-long-ships-by-frans-g-bengtsson-9780007560707","title":"The Long Ships","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis saga brings alive the world of the 10th century AD when the Vikings raided the coasts of England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAcclaimed as one of the best historical novels ever written, this engaging saga of Viking adventure in 10th century northern Europe has a very appealing young hero, Orm Tostesson, whose story we follow from inexperienced youth to adventurous old age, through slavery and adventure to a royal marriage and the search for great treasure. Viking expeditions take him to lands as far apart as England, Moorish Spain, Gaardarike (the country that was to become Russia), and the long road to Miklagard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe salt-sea spray, the swaying deck awash in slippery blood are the backdrop to fascinating stories of King Harald Blue Tooth, the Jomsvikings, attempts to convert the Northmen to Christianity, and much else. Like H. Rider Haggard, Bengtsson is a master of the epic form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Gardners Books Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47742072553708,"sku":"9780007560707","price":24.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780007560707-the-long-ships.jpg?v=1781433713"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.live\/collections\/frans-g-bengtsson.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}