This is the last of the three Anglo Saxon/Viking books which arrived a few days ago for me to have had a detailed look at.

The book debunks the myth of the Viking Age as a time of warlords pillaging their way throughout Europe.

Byock describes Icelandic Viking culture as an independent “almost republican Free State, almost like a great village: a self governing community of settlers who adapted to the harsh Icelandic climate”.

Again, for me this is not a book to read from cover to cover but to use as a reference when required. It covers all aspects of life in Viking Age Iceland, including farming, battling the elements, feasting, family life, the role of women and kinship and of course the power of the church and the great chieftains.

Well illustrated, noted, referenced and indexed – a superb edition to one’s bookshelf.