Library Journal
In Holland's The Soul Thief, Corban Loosestrife made a desperate escape from Jorvik (now modern-day York, England) with love Benna, twin sister Mav, and nephew Raef. After settling on the barren coast of Vinland, he went on to raise a family. This sequel picks up 15 years later, when Corban feels compelled to make amends for the murder of Eric Bloodaxe, which drove him from Jorvik. With son Conn and nephew Raef, Corban sets off to find Gunnhild, Eric's widow, leaving Benna and Mav behind. What ensues is continual sea and battle adventures among political and religious strife. Viking lords mix political ambition with religion, while the ruling Christian king of Denmark, Bluetooth, systematically eliminates his pagan foes. Corban finds himself thrust into the turmoil, separated from Conn and Raef, and frustrated in his attempts to appease Gunnhild. Holland once again delivers lots of action and adventure, crisply and realistically described. She also incorporates elements of magic, wizardry, and the supernatural, which may appeal to fans of fantasy. Recommended for larger public libraries and where the previous book is popular.-Jean Langlais, St. Charles P.L., IL Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.