Although this is a work of fiction, The Hidden Hollow by Njord Kane reads like history come to life.
I did not put this book down and my favorite part... the creature in the woods.
When I read the description, "A historical fiction that carries you into the fantasy world of Norse myth and Viking legend", my first thought was "great, another Beowulf story - just what we need". I was expecting some half-naked muscle bound super vikings walking around smashing each other in the head.
I was wrong.
In fact, I was very wrong and was pleasantly surprised to find out the protagonist was not the hulking Conan stereotype that so many Viking stories push, but rather a very real and tangible person of the era. I know something of Norse history and found this book to be the most historically accurate that I've read so far. It is exactly how I would have thought they lived back then. But don't get me wrong, it's not a history book - no, not at all. The author draws you into a thrilling drama with mystery and danger.
This is a story about someone overcoming their societal status. Quickly you become attached to the hero as an underdog who is striving to elevate his position in life while trying to stay alive. Not without foibles you can easily relate to the main character and the way he tackles his troubles. I particularly enjoyed the way Mr. Kane painted the setting of The Hidden Hollow with his beautiful description of fjords, forests, and living quarters of the time.
Mr. Kane brings much needed historical realism to his story with era appropriate lifestyles, challenges, and surroundings. The characters are all very believable and fit into the Norse era very well with their behaviors.
I highly recommend reading "The Hidden Hollow".