Fifth book in Saberhagen's BOOK OF THE GODS series.
In the first four volumes of the Book of the Gods, Fred Saberhagen
brought a new perspective to the classic gods of Greek mythology. Now
the legendary creator of the Berserker
and Lost Swords sagas turns his gaze northward toward an entirely
different pantheon of immortal deities... the fearsome and
ferocious gods of Valhalla.
Haraldur the Northman once joined Jason on his fabled quest for
the Golden Fleece, but now he wants nothing more to do with gods and
adventure. Returning to his homeland for the first time in many
years, he hopes only to settle down on a farm of his own – until he
comes across an impenetrable wall of eldritch fire and a lovesick
youth determined to breach the wall at any cost.
Behind the towering flames, he is told lies a beautiful Valkyrie
trapped in an enchanted sleep, as well as, perhaps, a golden treasure
beyond mortal reckoning. It is the gold that tempts Hal to agree,
against his better judgment, to assist the youth in his quest.
But to find a way past the fiery wall, they must first brave
gnomes, ghosts, and the wrath of the gods themselves. For a mighty
battle is brewing, and Hal soon finds himself caught up in a
celestial conflict between Thor and Thunderer, Loki the Trickster,
and most powerful of all, Wodan, the merciless Lord of Battles!
