Rhowena, a Ninth Century Welsh Princess of the fictional kingdom of Usk, has second sight and predicts an invasion of her father's kingdom. Wulfgar Bloodaxe is the illegitimate son of a king of the Northland. He strives for recognition and land. In order to achieve his goals he joins Olaf the Sea Bull to go a-viking and capture for ransom the Welsh Princess.
As a viking fan, the names of the characters caught my attention, Wulfgar Bloodaxe, Olaf the Sea Bull, Ivar the Boneless, and Ragnar Lodbrók (Ragnar Hairy Breeches).
I thoroughly enjoyed Swan Road, the historical research about the Norse culture and life was wonderfully incorporated into the story. Included in the story is torture, rape and decapitations, so it may be considered a bit bloody.
With all of the excellent research there was one noticeable mistake. This mistake is the reason this book did not get five stars from me. At a feast set before Wulfgar and Ivar, the author describes a stew made with beef and potatoes. Unfortunately potatoes were introduce to Europe by Spain in 1536. With all of her excellent research this is a glaring mistake.
Swan Road is more of a historical than a romance. But potatoes aside, I highly recommend this book, especially to a Viking Fan. ( )