Viking Quest Series - Book Review
Updated: May 11, 2023
Reviewed by: Shanea Rinn
Author: Lois Walfrid Johnson
Readability Age Range: 10 and up.
Book Summary - Raiders from the Sea
"When Briana O 'Toole rescues a stranger from drowning, she doesn't realize that her action may have put her family and village in danger. Then, in one frightening day, Viking raiders capture Bree and her brother Devin and take them away from their home in Ireland.
All of the Irish prisoners are at the mercy of Mikkel, the proud young leader of the Vikings. Separated by Mikkel, Bree and Devin each face different journeys to courage. As Bree sails toward a life of slavery in Norway and as Devin struggles to survive on his own, they must choose to trust God in spite of the troubles they face.
When everything is against them, where will Bree and Devin find the courage to win?"
My Review
The style of writing in these books is unique and refreshing. Even though it is designed for younger readers, the style captures your attention and emotion. I find even as an adult, I still go back to these books to study the style. The plot is well laid out, and the characters are all individual and very developed. At the end of the five books, every loose end has been tied up neatly, leaving just enough to the imagination of the reader for the future.
These books are clean, and very very suitable for the young reader. It is a masterpiece of historical fiction dealing with the Viking Raids on Ireland, and any details that might be sensitive for young readers are tactfully handled by the author. And yet, they are not dumbed down, but very realistic.
Christian / Religious theme
The author writes with a Christian world view.
There are mentions of monks and monasteries but the author does not delve into the difference between Catholicism, or Protestantism. The message of Salvation through the finished work of Jesus Christ alone is presented clearly.
Themes of forgiveness, faith, trust, repentance, honesty, loyalty, charity, love, and grace are explored through this series.
Character/s Quality
There are both role model characters, and grey characters in this series.
Some represent role model characters, who still have flaws and struggles, but are seeking the Lord for guidance and help throughout.
Others represent troubled individuals, who don't have either great motivations or intentions, but it is not glorified by the author, and the struggle between right and wrong is clearly shown.
Violence / Fear / Gore / Horror
As this is a story set in the era of the Viking raids, there are some rather serious, frightening scenes. But there is no horror, gore, or graphic violence. Indeed, considering the violence we know took place during this time in history, the author does an amazing job of showing the severity of the situation, without disturbing the readers in an unhealthy way.
Fantasy / Magic
There is no fantasy or magic in this book. The myths of the Vikings and their gods and superstition are shown and told as it is part of history and relevant to the series.
Romance
There is an enemies to lovers trope. It is very mild, yet well done romance, that grows slowly throughout the series. It is the most prominent in the last book where the characters have aged significantly from the beginning of the series.
For those who are sensitive to romance, there is some cheek touching and one kiss that happens.
Overall the progression on the romance is clean, innocent, and beautifully done, and still pulls at my heart strings as an adult!
Language
No foul, crude, or shady language in this series.
Drugs / Alcohol / Substance Abuse
None at all.
Final Thoughts
This series was my personal favorite as a young teenager. If you look at the image I posted of the books you can tell they were well read! From time to time I still pick them up and read it again. And there are many testimonials of older young adults, even into their 20s that have enjoyed this series. I think it is great option for a family read, a wonderful addition to homeschool literature, and a loveable, personal keepsake series for any young adult.
Series Order
It is important to read this series in order, as previous events tie into present and future events. The order is as follows:
Raiders from the Sea
Mystery of the Silver Coins
The Invisible Friend
Heart of Courage
The Raider's Promise
Where can I find these books?
This series is available individually, or as a series across many different book stores. Formats include softcover, or kindle/e-reader editions. You can find them on Amazon, Moody House Publishers, Christanbook.com, or even from the author's own website which I have linked for you below.
If you are interested in learning more about Lois Walfrid Johnson, and the other series she has written, you can check out her website: Lois Walfrid Johnson | Trusted Friend of Families
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