Raider (Norse Saga Book 1)

“Raider” is a sweet, straightforward m/m novella, given a very well-done historical setting by an author who knows his way around the English language. As implausible as the idea of a gay Viking might seem, Cole gives it an appropriate context and makes it plausible, and the authenticity of the historical setting made me appreciate, once again, how glad I am NOT to live during the dark ages on the Welsh coast of the British isles.Aiden is a redhead, a shepherd, and a bastard. Orphaned, he is lucky enough to own a house and a flock of sheep. Barely tolerated by the villagers for his illegitimate birth, he wiles away his days carving little ornamental pendants while watching his flock and pondering the endless gray vision of his life amongst these pinched, narrow, rigidly Christian people. Cole really captures the physical and cultural setting beautifully.Then one day a group of Viking traders come to town. They have silver. They have goods. On big blond named Einarr takes a shine to Aiden’s carving skills, and trades him a few pieces of fine carving wood for one.But the morally righteous villagers decide it is both wise and just to cheat the heathen Northmen and in the ensuing disaster, Aiden finds himself carried away by his blond Viking as a thrall. Thus unfolds a surprisingly nuanced story about life in the dark ages, and a love story that is as sweet-hearted as it is unexpected. The plot of “Raider” is as much about Aiden and his discovery of a world outside the limits of his experience as it is about Vikings and their way of life. Lots of nice details bring the plot to life and create a vivid setting against which our fairly forthright characters play their parts.Jerry Cole advertises this as an “M/M Viking Historical Gay First Time Romance” right on the cover…although from scanning his other books he seems to specialize in “straight to gay” first time romance. Huh. I didn’t know gay guys wrote that kind of story; thus proving “live and learn.” I may not go for those books, but I’ll keep my eye out for more of Cole’s well-crafted work.

Not a greatly written story, not much depth or perspective, but then again, I wasn't looking for that. I was looking for something to unwind with, and this filled the need. I did purchase the second book in the series, so the author did something right!

Hot Dam... Vikings and Man on Man sex, who could ask for more! Once again, Mr. Cole has pulled this reader into his story and made me feel like I was right there in the middle of all of the fighting, etc. Aiden and Einarr are intriguing, their story line is steady and thoughtful at the same time. I really enjoyed the way Mr. Cole has these two men slowly realizing that there is more than their time spent together and more was slowly happening between them than just being the conquering viking and the captured slave! The sex is hot and well played out. Once again, Mr. Cole has given us his all in another great book! An avid reader in Rock Tavern, NY."I received a free advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review"

The writing in this book was actually reasonably good, and the story had focus and detail. Definitely a bit "harlequin-esque" but an enjoyable read if what you like is a bit of historical context combined with romance that is more focused on personalities and events more than getting to the naked part. There actually isn't a ton of sex in it, so if you're wanting steamy writing this is definitely not your book.The 4-star rating is based on the coherent story line, the interesting context and the writer's ability to keep you interested without getting down and dirty. Pretty fun read for someone looking for a romance that involves men.

I received this book as an ARC in return for an honest review.Just when I think that Jerry Cole cannot surprise me any more he does.This books was amazing. Heart wrenching in spots but uplifting in a way that had me chewing my nails.The characters are as always well developed and the interaction between the MC's and the 'supporting cast' is thoughtful and at times hilarious. The community he builds in the mind is incredible and feels real and with enough historical accuracy to make it relatable as well..Vikings..a love story about a viking and a man he must enslave to keep him safe. It's beautiful. So click buy now.

Other than the hint from the book's title, I had no clue what the story was going to be. It was a wonderful surprise. (Look to the book summary and other reviews for other details.) The plot, setting and character development, both main and supporting, are deeply satisfying. The relationship between Aiden and Einarr grows from a charming spark, through thralldom, to the tender, hopeful ending. This story is contemplative, brutal at times, sweet and humorous at others. This story felt complete, not rushed or abruptly ended, and reverberates with me still. It is my favorite story of Jerry's thus far. I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

This was one of if not the most immersive and wonderful romantic novel I've ever read. I really with there were more of this series as this and captured were amazing in amazing ways. I want a movie out of this book 😭 it was so culturally appropriate and I could imagine every scene clearly in my mind

As a novice follower of ancient history I liked the accuracy of the Viking customs presented by the author. Thralls and Viking s did have sexual relationships, and polyamory, and polygamy were common. They also would let a thrall buy their freedom and join the community. So, a love story like this one could have happened and I've always wondered what it would be like. Now I know. My only complaint is it was too short. I hope there's a second one. Great m4m fiction!

I really enjoyed this book. It's quite short but throughly entertaining. The main characters are nicely drawn and engaging. I knocked off a star for some inaccuracies - all the Northumbrians appear to have Welsh names, European adders are brown not green, Odin's horse Sleipnir has eight legs not six, and the English never raided the Scandinavian coast in ships. But apart from that, it's an excellent book with a lovely romance and I would recommend it.

A male to male romance that is far better than the average male to male love novel. The story is bold and well written. The action goes from one chapter to another at a good pace to keep the reader interested and wanting to go on reading to find out what happens next. This is book one of a two part serial, I do not know if there is going to be a part three, but I have put part two in my wish list for future reading.

Aiden is a lonely young man, carving small tokens from wood for pleasure while tending his small herd of sheep and is despised by the villagers due to the fact he has no father. Einarr, a Viking and his band of traders come to Aiden's village to barter for what they need in exchange for silver, and there starts an attraction between a hulking Viking and a young villager

I greatly enjoyed this! It hits all the fun tropes I was in the mood for ('slavery', vikings, lonely character whisked away into a new life etc etc etc) with the added bonus of focusing more on the romance and build up! The plot was wrangled so you have the thrill of 'character kidnapped by invader' but none of the groan-worthy nonconsensual/stockholm type stuff you see in so many other stories. Aiden maintained his personality and strength throughout, the romance happened naturally and all the characters were enjoyable. Would definitely recommend!

Beautifully crafted Viking story, properly anchored in history, and very ingenious and original. Love blossoms in the most unusual circumstances indeed. Hope more is coming!