Book
A Time for Swords
In 793, novice monk Hunlaf is present when Viking raiders attack the monastery of Lindisfarne. The slaughter forces him to take up a sword, challenging the teaching and identity that have shaped his life. As Northumbria struggles to understand the new threat from the sea, Hunlaf joins those preparing to resist further attacks and begins the transformation from cleric to warrior.
The attack on Lindisfarne gives the story a historical turning point: a monastic community suddenly discovers that wealth and sanctity offer no protection from seaborne raiders. Hunlaf’s decision to fight creates a conflict between Christian vocation and the practical demands of survival. His transformation mirrors a Northumbria beginning to recognise that raids from across the sea are becoming a sustained threat.
Historical Periods
More from this period
5 more top-rated novels about Anglo-Saxon England
Ranked by rating and voting volume; books already shown on this page are omitted.
More by the author
Other books by Matthew Harffy
Discover more
Authors similar to Matthew Harffy
Recommended from shared genres and periods.
M J Porter
49 books
John Broughton
23 books
Tim Hodkinson
12 books
Giles Kristian
10 books
Cecelia Holland
20 books