Eric Bloodaxe The Viking: 'I Shall Die Laughing'

Eric Bloodaxe was a Viking warrior who became the king of Norway and Northumbria, but his reign was marked by oppression and despotism. He was forced into exile in Orkney and became a pirate before dying at the battle of Stainmore in 954 at the age of sixty-nine. John Sadler's book retells the story of Eric Bloodaxe and the rise of the House of Wessex, the Norse kingdom of Jorvik, Athelstan, and the battle of Brunanburh.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2025
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Eric Bloodaxe, also known as Brother-Slayer, could be considered the last of the Vikings, with his life resembling a real-life episode of Game of Thrones and his story resembling a true Norse saga. The author has pieced together the details of Eric's life from scarce chronicle sources and enigmatic sagas, which provide a vivid portrayal of the Viking Age. At the age of twelve, Eric was already a formidable warrior, leading murderous raids against the Balts and Scots and building his reputation and resources. He would need these skills to rule. In a bloody civil war with several of his half-brothers, Eric emerged victorious and claimed the throne of Norway. However, his reign became increasingly oppressive and despotic. Fleeing to Orkney, he became an overlord and a pirate. As the ruler of Northumbria, Eric would meet his end at the Battle of Stainmore in 954 at the remarkable age of sixty-nine. In retelling the story of Eric Bloodaxe, John Sadler delves into the rise of the House of Wessex, the Norse kingdom of Jorvik, Athelstan, and the pivotal battle of Brunanburh.

Weight: 626g
Dimension: 165 x 244 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398122338