Varangian - Books 1-2

Book excerpt: The first two books in 'Varangian', a series of historical novels by Stuart G. Yates, now available in one volume! Varangian: It's the mid-11th century, and the Byzantine Empire dominates the world. Within the walls of Constantinople, debauchery and power politics are part of the lives of the ruling elite. Thrust into this heady mix is the Viking adventurer, Harald Hardrada. Life in the court of the deranged emperor, Michael the Fifth, holds extreme danger at every turn. Can Hardrada survive this dangerous place and turn his mind towards regaining what is rightfully his? King of the Norse: Harald Hardrada wants to be the king of Norway, but General Maniakes has something different in mind for him. Using Hardrada as an instrument of death, he's not the only one who seeks to rule Byzantium. Bishops lie, soldiers fight, assassins stalk the streets and lovers lament. With few resources and even less time, Harald faces a difficult choice - and the specter of death is never far away.