For the Want of Silver:
Inspired by the story of Ulf of Borresta
By Michael E. Wills
Publication Date: 17th May 2023
Publisher: Bygone Ages Press
Page Length: 279 Pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
A novel inspired by the true story of a Viking raider who, over 30 years, acquired a fortune in English silver.
In the churchyard of the village of Orkesta, just north of the city of Stockholm, stand two eleventh century rune stones. One of them, in a few brief runes, tells the world of the extraordinary achievements of Ulf of Borresta, a Viking raider, who lived nearby.
During his long raiding career, Ulf became extremely rich on the proceeds of extortion: Danegeld. The carved runes mention the names of Norse historical figures with whom he ravaged the English countryside. These Viking chieftains were real historical figures. Their names, the dates and places of their battles in England and the sums of silver they were paid by desperate English monarchs, are documented in the Anglo Saxon Chronicles.
Ulf took part in this reign of terror and in the vicious raids and bloody battles where the Danegelds were won. This is his story.
Chieftain Gnir annually sent the tax collector, Ingemund, to the nearby villages to collect the owed tithes. This year was no different. But for Ulf and his best friend Erik, life would never be the same again.
Taken by Ingemund for a crime against one of his men, the two boys come face to face with Gnir. Recognizing their potential, Gnir offers them the opportunity to train as housecarls. But this does not guarantee that they will reach adulthood, for there are those who would happily see both boys in their graves.
Discover the captivating tale of Ulf of Borresta in Michael E. Wills’ latest book, “For the Want of Silver.”
The story is gripping and progresses with a distinct narrative arc. The opening of this novel sets up the conflict and introduces the main characters, Ulf and Erik. Ulf and Erik’s growth from captive children to warriors shapes their path towards becoming successful individuals. The events that occur in this story are connected in a logical manner, and the pacing effectively maintains reader engagement.
The characters in this novel are well-developed and believable. Ulf is a highly likeable character, although he can come off as arrogant, especially in his interactions with his best friend Erik, whom he perceives as less intelligent. However, without Erik’s support, Ulf’s journey from captive child to warrior, farmer, husband, and father would have been impossible. Despite occasional difficulties, Ulf and Erik share a strong bond. Erik’s unwavering loyalty means that he will always be there to support Ulf, especially in times of trouble. It’s undeniable that without Erik, Ulf would not have lived to see his children grow up. As an adult, Erik is a shameless alcoholic which puts him and Ulf at odds on several occasions, but he will do everything in his power to keep Ulf physically safe, even if that comes at his own expense. Regardless of the highs and lows in their relationship, Ulf and Erik have a deep understanding that they can rely on each other in times of great necessity. The depiction of this friendship by the author is skilful, and Ulf and Erik make a formidable duo.
In this novel, there are numerous antagonists. Agmunder and others like him hold a personal vendetta against the boys. When the boys mature into men and take up arms, they soon grasp the notion that the risks of war surpass the enemy they confront, putting them at risk of injury and death from their own allies. Likewise, greed, pride, and envy are dangerous foes. They must share the silver obtained from their adversaries equally, but it is up to each person to secure their own silver from those who would try to steal more to satisfy their greed. Ulf’s comprehension of this peril prompts him to devise strategies for securing the silver in a manner that would make it extremely difficult to take.
Wills has illustrated a Norse society that was highly structured, with defined social classes, but there was substantial social mobility. Ulf is a prime illustration of this mobility. Initially a freeman, he is taken prisoner, transitions into a warrior, and eventually establishes himself as a wealthy farmer. Despite his life being illustrated in stone for all eternity, the reality was that his destiny was not tied to his circumstances of birth.
This novel portrays numerous battle scenes, Ulf visits England thrice, and earns his fair share of the Danegeld! Ulf’s growing confidence as a warrior is juxtaposed with the heartbreaking loss of friends, emphasizing the grim truths of war. The intricacies of warfare are thoroughly examined, including fear, adrenaline, and excitement. The Anglo-Saxon army, as depicted by the author, consists not only of trained soldiers but also farmers. The farmers must have been truly terrified when they encountered such a strong adversary, causing the reader to pause and contemplate. True to expectations, the book contains intense scenes of violence, but the author emphasizes the aftermath of the battle more rather than the battle itself.
The amount of effort put into researching this era is apparent in the attention to the historical detail. On the other hand, the inclusion of certain modern terminology may interrupt the reader’s engagement in the narrative. People who enjoy novels set in this era typically understand the terminology, but clear explanations in well-written prose can clarify the meaning of each archaic word. The novel’s style suggests it is targeted towards young adults, showcasing the author’s preference for this audience. Nevertheless, this book contains many adult themes that may be unsuitable for a younger reader.
For the Want of Silver by Michael E. Wills is a novel that deserves to be read. Wills has breathed new life into Ulf, bringing his story to a new generation of readers. This book absolutely deserves a spot on your bookshelf.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
Yarde Reviews & Book Promotion
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For the Want of Silver
Michael E. Wills
Michael Wills was born in Newport on the Isle of Wight and attended the Priory Boys’ School and later Carisbrooke Grammar. He trained as a teacher at St Peter’s College, Birmingham, before teaching mathematics and physical education for two years at a secondary school in Kent.
After re-training to become a teacher of English as a Foreign Language he worked in Sweden for thirteen years. In 1979 he returned to UK with his wife and young family to start a language school, the Salisbury School of English.
From small beginnings the school developed into substantial business enterprise. Michael retired in 2008 after over forty years in the field of education. Along the way, he was President of Salisbury Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Co-Chair of English UK, the national association of English language training providers.
Currently, Michael is employed part-time as Ombudsman for English UK. He divides his spare time between indulging his life-long interest in medieval history and enjoying his grandchildren, writing, carpentry, amateur radio and sailing.
Michael also has an interest in modern history and has a website relating to the evacuation of Dunkirk in World War II: https://www.iowtodunkirk.com
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