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Permalink Reply by Anne Rightler on January 8, 2017 at 8:10pm

West Oversea by Lars Walker is a remarkable historical tale. First millennial Viking history is a little-known world to this reader and I imagine to many others as well. Walker does a great job, giving readers a seemingly realistic view of the Viking world--a harsh and hostile world. Apparently this is a sequel but can easily be read as a stand-alone story. Characters are strong and yet have the same feelings and failings as folks centuries hence. With the beginnings of Christian faith in their hearts, a Viking crew has decided to go to Greenland. But with the sea-bewildering winds, the ship is thrown off course. The book is full of compelling adventures of a people who need to rely on their crewmates and cunning to survive. Adventures that show changelings, shapeshifters, and animal creatures--are they real or imagined? And how does this faith in God differ from the superstitions of their former beliefs? What about this Eye of Odin? Does it really give Sight, visions of the future? Can it be trusted? Will they find Father Aillil's sister or will the trip be a bust? Walker tells a story of the weaknesses of the human soul and the hope that faith in God alone can bring.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Book Club network. A favorable review was not required and opinions are my own.
I have posted reviews on the following sites: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Deepershopping, Christian Book, Booksamillion, FamilyChristian, LibraryThing, and GoodReads if available.

Permalink Reply by Deana Dick on January 25, 2017 at 8:49pm

This is not my typical genre to read but I found the writing to be so descriptive I had to continue on. I love books that allow readers to travel to different eras and explore different cultures. I knew few little about the Vikings and what their beliefs were. The author does a great job of telling a story that makes you feel like you are right there with the characters. They are bold, strong and fierce and have a determination to enjoy their adventure on the high seas.

I am not a fan of the ocean and have no desire to ever travel on a ship. I don't even know how to swim. It was easy for me to sympathize with Father Ailiil who is not thrilled with the turbulent waves as the water splashed continually. He just couldn't get a break. It was intriguing to learn that he was willing to get on a ship when he gets news of his sister . He has long though to be dead but rumors have given him hope . It sure would have to be something really important for me to want to step on a ship and travel . Will he find his sister? The story is captivating and really has some great action throughout the story. What object is discovered that will have an impact on characters?

I really found myself intrigued by the mystery in the book and the action that kept a great pace during the story. There are several characters in the book that I found to be interesting and at times a bit funny with a sarcastic tone. It made the story lively and I have now found a new author to read .

I received a copy of this book from Bookfun.org. The review is my honest opinion.
https://www.librarything.com/work/8404194/book/138230882
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1892224450
http://deana0326.blogspot.com/2017/01/west-oversea-by-lars-walker.html
https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R2CAYPU40HF9LW/ref=cm_cr...
My review is also posted on CBD and Deepershopping.

Permalink Reply by Carrie Gould on June 8, 2017 at 6:27pm

I am reading this book now. Thanks.

Permalink Reply by Sonnetta Jones on July 5, 2017 at 7:58am

The storyline and the author's sense of humor drew me in. It was a little confusing for me because I was not familiar with the names of the Norse people but that did not detract from the story. I wanted to know what happened. I was not aware it was part of a series. This story is a reminder that no matter how far you go you can return home. Look out for the little gems that the author disperses throughout these pages. I received this book from Bookfun.org for an honest review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.