If you like your fantasy with a little less political intrigue, then "The Wolf" by Leo Carew is the book for you. A debut novel by this author, it is the first in the "Under the Northern Sky" series.
This book is a tale of revenge and culture clash. The backdrop is a world that reminds the reader of the Viking era. The Anakim are a long-lived race who scorn wealth and who relish the harsh conditions of the north. The Sutherners are a short-lived race with limitless ambition. The Sutherners are the invading army in this tale. They manage to kill the Anakim leader in the first battle, leaving an empty hole in leadership.
Roper is the son of the killed leader. Uvoren is a skilled warrior who wants the leadership for himself. Thus we have a clash for the Anakim leadership as well as a cultural clash between Anakim and Sutherner.
Bellamus is a Sutherner warrior who is in cahoots with his queen. They seek to manipulate the king into doing their biding. Bellamus is an interesting character in his own right. He seems to be a likeable fellow yet with great ambition. He is someone to keep an eye on.
There is definitely political intrigue, but in no way as intense and involved as "Game of Thrones." The sides of the conflicts are clear, and it is easy to find someone to cheer for. This novel is a fast-paced read and quite enjoyable. I will definitely be reading the next in the series when it comes out.
Comments