What do you think?
Rate this book
The Last Viking #4
Wolves of the Empire
The brand new epic adventure from bestselling author JC Duncan! Must-read for Bernard Cornwell, Peter Gibbons and Matthew Harffy ⚔️ Sworn to serve the empire, cursed to decide its fate.
1041 AD, Constantinople
The Byzantine empire is fading. Sick with corruption and complacency that paralyses its once mighty people, assailed from within and without by those who seek to feast upon its riches.
The emperor is dying, the empress is ageing, and rebellion threatens in the heart of their homelands. The last hope of the eternal empire might lie with a disgraced foreign mercenary.
Harald Hardrada fears nothing but failure or dishonour. For eight years he has faithfully served the heirs of Caesar, but has failed in his goal to earn the riches and reputation he needs to reclaim the throne of Norway.
Empress Zoe makes Harald one final offer to save both of their He can have all the riches and glory that he desires, if he breaks his oaths and delivers the empire into her grasp.
Is Harald the man of his word or will he bend to the empress’s ruthless demands?
The explosive next chapter in the extraordinary tale of Harald Hardrada
Praise for JC
'Harald Hardrada as you've never seen him before! A fantastic story written by a fantastic author' - Donovan Cook
'Immersive and impeccably researched, JC Duncan brings Harald Hardrada's epic journey to life with gripping authenticity' - Richard Cullen
'A fresh, vibrant take on perhaps that most Viking of all Vikings, Harald Hardrada. Bloody, epic and full of detail, Duncan paints a vivid picture of Harald’s early life, as he battles his way into legend' - Matthew Harffy
'The gripping tale of the last great viking, Harold Hardrada, told in compelling style' -Tim Hodkinson
'An engrossing, epic tale brimming with historical detail and brave daring - the story of a legend' - MJ Porter
'Fantastic, a magnificent series. I have loved each book. Can’t wait to read the next in series. If you love stories of bravery and adventure you must get this!' - Reader Review
'A truly fantastic series. A must for historical fiction fans. If you haven't read JC Duncan's telling of Hardrada yet you really are missing out.' - Reader Review
'Excellent again. The pace continues on from the last book and once again it is very hard to put down. It's full of lies, decete and just flat out Brutal violence some that even makes you cringe but it is just a fantastic read.' - Reader Review
'Wow wow wow!!! This was such a ride. The character development and world building was top notch. This is a must read!!' - Netgalley Reviewer
1041 AD, Constantinople
The Byzantine empire is fading. Sick with corruption and complacency that paralyses its once mighty people, assailed from within and without by those who seek to feast upon its riches.
The emperor is dying, the empress is ageing, and rebellion threatens in the heart of their homelands. The last hope of the eternal empire might lie with a disgraced foreign mercenary.
Harald Hardrada fears nothing but failure or dishonour. For eight years he has faithfully served the heirs of Caesar, but has failed in his goal to earn the riches and reputation he needs to reclaim the throne of Norway.
Empress Zoe makes Harald one final offer to save both of their He can have all the riches and glory that he desires, if he breaks his oaths and delivers the empire into her grasp.
Is Harald the man of his word or will he bend to the empress’s ruthless demands?
The explosive next chapter in the extraordinary tale of Harald Hardrada
Praise for JC
'Harald Hardrada as you've never seen him before! A fantastic story written by a fantastic author' - Donovan Cook
'Immersive and impeccably researched, JC Duncan brings Harald Hardrada's epic journey to life with gripping authenticity' - Richard Cullen
'A fresh, vibrant take on perhaps that most Viking of all Vikings, Harald Hardrada. Bloody, epic and full of detail, Duncan paints a vivid picture of Harald’s early life, as he battles his way into legend' - Matthew Harffy
'The gripping tale of the last great viking, Harold Hardrada, told in compelling style' -Tim Hodkinson
'An engrossing, epic tale brimming with historical detail and brave daring - the story of a legend' - MJ Porter
'Fantastic, a magnificent series. I have loved each book. Can’t wait to read the next in series. If you love stories of bravery and adventure you must get this!' - Reader Review
'A truly fantastic series. A must for historical fiction fans. If you haven't read JC Duncan's telling of Hardrada yet you really are missing out.' - Reader Review
'Excellent again. The pace continues on from the last book and once again it is very hard to put down. It's full of lies, decete and just flat out Brutal violence some that even makes you cringe but it is just a fantastic read.' - Reader Review
'Wow wow wow!!! This was such a ride. The character development and world building was top notch. This is a must read!!' - Netgalley Reviewer
- GenresHistorical Fiction
394 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
About the author
J.C. Duncan
11 books61 followersJames C Duncan is a debut author fascinated with history and fantasy. He writes historical fantasy/fiction based on our world, but in an alternate timeline, past, present or future, where each book or series asks and tries to answer a question of 'What if?' His first series 'The Light of the North saga', asks the question 'What if the Norse didn't convert to Christianity, and instead the Viking raids continued.' And posits the answer, which you will have to read the book to find out! James does not create new worlds, he messes with the history and future of ours, grounded in our own history and the laws of our universe, but tweaked in events and often adding a soft sprinkling of the divine or fantastical, resulting in relatable historical and future fantasy.
Upcoming books include the questions:
'What if the black death was actually a coverup of something much, much worse.' An alternate history of the time of the black death, based in southern Europe and the Middle East.
'What if the human race develops a race of gene engineered worker drones, but they are turned against us.' A post apocalyptic fiction set in the 22nd century in Poland and Hungary
James is a professional engineer, and splits his spare time writing, reading, and being an amateur bladesmith.
Upcoming books include the questions:
'What if the black death was actually a coverup of something much, much worse.' An alternate history of the time of the black death, based in southern Europe and the Middle East.
'What if the human race develops a race of gene engineered worker drones, but they are turned against us.' A post apocalyptic fiction set in the 22nd century in Poland and Hungary
James is a professional engineer, and splits his spare time writing, reading, and being an amateur bladesmith.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 2, 2025
This is the best book yet! I find it amazing that not only can Duncan sustain such a complicated narrative, but he just keeps getting better. By now, we are not surprised at the depths of deceit our heroes have to face in the empire, and Harald seems capable of anticipating it—mostly. Unfortunately, our narrator Eric sees his leader—and hero—exhibit more and more ruthless tendencies in order to succeed. He’s not happy about it; in fact, many times he pulls away from Harald in disgust, only to come bouncing back:
“Go and be with your men, (Eric), and don’t ruin that healthy streak of resentment they have for me. As long as they respect me and follow my orders, a little anger and a desire to prove themselves can be a good thing.”
“You’re a bastard, Harald,” I said, but I hung my head and laughed.
Harald chuckled. “I know, and you’re a good man. But all true leaders are bastards. It’s just part of what we have to do.”
So ultimately, all that matters is Harald’s grand strategy to gain enough renown and gold to support his return to Norway and gain the kingship. Everything else is secondary, even his loyal companions. At the same time, his personal honor is paramount, and he will bend over backwards to keep his oaths to the Emperor and Empress, even though they often conflict. None of the authorities appreciate the Northern “barbarians”, but the emperor recognizes their prowess, their courage and unpredictable, successful risk taking. Harald is used, abused, and pushed aside, but he always finds a way to rise above his adversities. He wades through a series of obstacles and even betrayals, losing men along the way until his followers are greatly reduced in number. But nothing stops him, and Eric ultimately comes to accept that with all his faults, Harald is the only man he can follow.
“Go and be with your men, (Eric), and don’t ruin that healthy streak of resentment they have for me. As long as they respect me and follow my orders, a little anger and a desire to prove themselves can be a good thing.”
“You’re a bastard, Harald,” I said, but I hung my head and laughed.
Harald chuckled. “I know, and you’re a good man. But all true leaders are bastards. It’s just part of what we have to do.”
So ultimately, all that matters is Harald’s grand strategy to gain enough renown and gold to support his return to Norway and gain the kingship. Everything else is secondary, even his loyal companions. At the same time, his personal honor is paramount, and he will bend over backwards to keep his oaths to the Emperor and Empress, even though they often conflict. None of the authorities appreciate the Northern “barbarians”, but the emperor recognizes their prowess, their courage and unpredictable, successful risk taking. Harald is used, abused, and pushed aside, but he always finds a way to rise above his adversities. He wades through a series of obstacles and even betrayals, losing men along the way until his followers are greatly reduced in number. But nothing stops him, and Eric ultimately comes to accept that with all his faults, Harald is the only man he can follow.
June 21, 2025
Narrated by Eric, a loyal soldier and follower, this is an epic historical fantasy set in 1041AD following Prince Harald of Norway and his adventures in Constantinople.
It explores political intrigue, power plays, scheming and betrayals, as well as loyalty, honour and dedication to duty and oaths.
There are epic battles and rebellions, conflict for leadership, and ruthless bargains for power as it explores the Byzantine and Roman Empires.
I enjoyed seeing Eric's pov and his honest accounts of the events, views of honour, and his loyalty to Harald.
Harald was an interesting character as he battles with ambition, power, morality and doing what is right, even when it means risking his life. I particularly enjoyed how he tackles the Empress's wrath, saves the Kingdom from a deranged and naive ruler, and his aims to protect the people.
The afterword was particularly interesting to read and learn which accounts were true or embellished. Overall this was an entertaining but tragic tale of ambition, dominance, and plots.
It explores political intrigue, power plays, scheming and betrayals, as well as loyalty, honour and dedication to duty and oaths.
There are epic battles and rebellions, conflict for leadership, and ruthless bargains for power as it explores the Byzantine and Roman Empires.
I enjoyed seeing Eric's pov and his honest accounts of the events, views of honour, and his loyalty to Harald.
Harald was an interesting character as he battles with ambition, power, morality and doing what is right, even when it means risking his life. I particularly enjoyed how he tackles the Empress's wrath, saves the Kingdom from a deranged and naive ruler, and his aims to protect the people.
The afterword was particularly interesting to read and learn which accounts were true or embellished. Overall this was an entertaining but tragic tale of ambition, dominance, and plots.
March 22, 2026
Hard Ruler indeed.
Loved tf outta this volume.
5⭐️
Loved tf outta this volume.
5⭐️
October 13, 2025
I was drawn to this book because I love Vikings and I thought this was a great installment for the series. The premise is strong and good to read.
The cover I don't mind much. I've never been a fan of real people on a cover but it was still a nice cover. The colours were excellent and it was a good job.
The story is well written and flows easily. The historical research is excellent and the knowledge of Vikings was good!
Again I love Vikings, Valhalla, Norse Mythology (Thor!) so this book was easy to read for me and I couldn't put it down.
The characters were good. Full of strong characters that helped the story tremendously. Harald Hardrada was excellent.
I recommend this to you all!
The cover I don't mind much. I've never been a fan of real people on a cover but it was still a nice cover. The colours were excellent and it was a good job.
The story is well written and flows easily. The historical research is excellent and the knowledge of Vikings was good!
Again I love Vikings, Valhalla, Norse Mythology (Thor!) so this book was easy to read for me and I couldn't put it down.
The characters were good. Full of strong characters that helped the story tremendously. Harald Hardrada was excellent.
I recommend this to you all!
July 2, 2025
Wolves Of The Empire by JC Duncan is the fourth book in the Last Viking series. When we find Prince Harold although betrayed by Zoe his loyalty still stands firm in an order to keep his oath he agrees to lead emperor Michael into one final battle in which Zoe hopes he will perish. when he survives the war it’s not much longer that his diseases and illnesses take him down. In route to concrete her plans she learns John who has kept a white knuckle grip on Michael the younger is one step ahead of her. Even when she tries to flee to save her life once again her plans aren’t a secret as she first thinks. John the eunuch will finally get exactly what he wanted but not the way he wanted it and when Michael the younger takes the throne nothing is as it was before. Eric and his elder days is still with the good people telling his tail when king maxim shows up early. The King wants to hear Eric’s tales of his great ancestor Harold but he too is wondering why Eric is digging up bones at a time when the Kings future is so dubious.!! just know there is way more to this grade book full of twist OMG moments and oh I did not see that coming situations. JC Duncan never leaves the reader wanting for action and when it comes to heart palpitations I don’t need exercise I just need to sit and read a JC Duncan book and this one is extraordinarily awesome! from ghost of the past showing up to cover their demons wanting to lead the empire this book is not without some truly edge of your seat moments. I can’t wait to see what happens in the final book because it seems for every new book the action amplifies and I cannot wait to see what happens next. truly an awesome series. I also want to know most of the outrageous things that happen in the book the author puts in the historical notes that for the most part they’re all mainly True which is even more baffling. #NetGalley, #BoldWoodBooks, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #JCDuncan,#WolvesOfTheEmpire,
April 10, 2026
I received an advance copy of this book via NetGalley.
The fourth instalment in the Last Viking series finds Harald Hardrada in 1041 AD Constantinople, his goal of reclaiming the Norwegian throne still frustratingly out of reach, and Empress Zoe offering him everything he desires — if he will break his oaths and deliver the empire into her hands.
Having followed the series from the beginning, I found this the most interesting entry yet in terms of character. Eric's narration has always been the emotional backbone of the series, but here he becomes genuinely critical of Harald rather than simply admiring him, pulling away in disgust at Harald's increasingly ruthless tendencies, only to find himself drawn back.
That moral tension gives the novel real depth. The Byzantine political intrigue is as well-handled as ever, the historical detail is impressive, and the action sequences deliver what fans of the series will expect.
My one reservation concerns the narrative framing. Eric is understood to be recounting these events from the 1090s, after the Norman Conquest, but there is at least one moment in this 1040s-set story where he references the Conquest in a way that feels slightly out of place — less a deliberate authorial choice than a small slip in the management of the frame. A minor niggle, but worth noting for careful readers.
A strong and increasingly sophisticated series. Not a standalone — start from book one.
The fourth instalment in the Last Viking series finds Harald Hardrada in 1041 AD Constantinople, his goal of reclaiming the Norwegian throne still frustratingly out of reach, and Empress Zoe offering him everything he desires — if he will break his oaths and deliver the empire into her hands.
Having followed the series from the beginning, I found this the most interesting entry yet in terms of character. Eric's narration has always been the emotional backbone of the series, but here he becomes genuinely critical of Harald rather than simply admiring him, pulling away in disgust at Harald's increasingly ruthless tendencies, only to find himself drawn back.
That moral tension gives the novel real depth. The Byzantine political intrigue is as well-handled as ever, the historical detail is impressive, and the action sequences deliver what fans of the series will expect.
My one reservation concerns the narrative framing. Eric is understood to be recounting these events from the 1090s, after the Norman Conquest, but there is at least one moment in this 1040s-set story where he references the Conquest in a way that feels slightly out of place — less a deliberate authorial choice than a small slip in the management of the frame. A minor niggle, but worth noting for careful readers.
A strong and increasingly sophisticated series. Not a standalone — start from book one.
November 10, 2025
The fourth installment of The Last Viking Series. We follow Harald Hardrada as he defends the Emperor at the royal palace. A fascinating insight into the life of Viking guardsmen as they defend the Emperor and Empire from rebel factions. Exciting action amid politics of the Byzantine era. A really good read. I recommend this to historical fans as well as others who like well written entertaining and thought provoking stories. With thanks to the author, Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this copy.
July 1, 2025
Wolves of the Empire by JC Duncan.
The Last Viking Series Book 4.
This was a good read. I have not read the first 3 books in this series. I was able to read it. I did like the writing style and the story. I did like the action in the book. It felt like I was there watching everything happen. I didn't really have any favourite characters. I didn't like them. But I didn't hate them either. I'm not a big fan of historical books. But I'm slowly getting into them. I do hope there is more to come.
The Last Viking Series Book 4.
This was a good read. I have not read the first 3 books in this series. I was able to read it. I did like the writing style and the story. I did like the action in the book. It felt like I was there watching everything happen. I didn't really have any favourite characters. I didn't like them. But I didn't hate them either. I'm not a big fan of historical books. But I'm slowly getting into them. I do hope there is more to come.
July 25, 2025
The Wolves
What a fantastic saga I have a keen interest in Harold Hadrada and this is not the only book that I have ever read on his life even if it is historical fiction. I will be excited and paying attention for the next book in this saga even if it will be hard to read because any historians know how it ends
What a fantastic saga I have a keen interest in Harold Hadrada and this is not the only book that I have ever read on his life even if it is historical fiction. I will be excited and paying attention for the next book in this saga even if it will be hard to read because any historians know how it ends
August 24, 2025
Maybe Duncan's best so far.
Grounded in history. Political intrigue mixed with warrior bonds at war. A band of brothers from early times. What it takes to be a leader or a follower. A warriors word & oath is his bond until its not!
Grounded in history. Political intrigue mixed with warrior bonds at war. A band of brothers from early times. What it takes to be a leader or a follower. A warriors word & oath is his bond until its not!
July 28, 2025
He saved the best 'til last. Unputdownable
October 12, 2025
Fantastic series. I hope there are more.
The historical aspect is amazing.
The historical aspect is amazing.
July 1, 2025
1041 AD Constantinople: Harald Hardrada is in the service of Emperor Michael IV where he is desperate to reclaim his reputation and earn money to help him reclaim the throne of Norway. The story of what happens to him is narrated by his loyal companion, Eric the Follower.
The tale Eric tells is full of palace politics, intrigue, loyalty, war, oaths sworn and broken, all served up with a good dash of humour. Before reading this book all I knew about Harald was that he tried to invade England in 1066 AD but was defeated in the attempt and died in battle. This book paints a fascinating picture of him – a strong leader, loyal to his oaths, far-sighted and, at times, cruel in pursuit of his objectives. This is the fourth book in a series and, having not read the previous three, I read it as a standalone which does work. However, I will read the first three to find out more about Harald and how he came to be in Constantinople.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Net Galley for an ARC for my honest review
The tale Eric tells is full of palace politics, intrigue, loyalty, war, oaths sworn and broken, all served up with a good dash of humour. Before reading this book all I knew about Harald was that he tried to invade England in 1066 AD but was defeated in the attempt and died in battle. This book paints a fascinating picture of him – a strong leader, loyal to his oaths, far-sighted and, at times, cruel in pursuit of his objectives. This is the fourth book in a series and, having not read the previous three, I read it as a standalone which does work. However, I will read the first three to find out more about Harald and how he came to be in Constantinople.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Net Galley for an ARC for my honest review
July 4, 2025
This book was really a step outside of my comfort zone. It’s not a genre I am totally ignorant of, but by the same token it’s not one I naturally gravitate to. All that being said, this is a particularly fine example of historical fiction. I can only imagine how meticulous the research that goes into writing a book like this. At times it felt like I was reading something factual, I had to keep reminding myself that these Viking warriors were invented and this didn’t really happen. The characters were so believable, so earthy and fully formed and their stories and struggles felt real. It was a pleasure to read and if you are into Vikings or historical fiction generally then you should definitely check this book out
July 8, 2025
This is not my normal genre, so it was interesting to read it. It’s so detailed in what happened, especially when it refers to punishment.
I loved that there was a map and cast of characters, although this signals to me that I’m gonna need to refer to it a few times.
This book is full of adventure and intrigue, even leading me to research some of the time period to get a better understanding. If a book makes you research what you’ve just read, it’s clearly a good book.
For it not being my usual genre, I enjoyed it
I loved that there was a map and cast of characters, although this signals to me that I’m gonna need to refer to it a few times.
This book is full of adventure and intrigue, even leading me to research some of the time period to get a better understanding. If a book makes you research what you’ve just read, it’s clearly a good book.
For it not being my usual genre, I enjoyed it
May 26, 2025
Excellent read! The writing is so descriptive that you feel like you're right in the middle of the action. I have to say, Harald was a ruthless man and his ambition was legendary. I'm really looking forward to the next book to get JC Duncan's take on Stamford Bridge. After Harald's notorious battles it makes you wonder what really happened in 1066. But, Wolves of the Empire is so full of adventure, drama, and intrigue it might make you do a little research of your own into the different historical characters. Well done!
This is my honest review after reading an ARC from Netgalley.
This is my honest review after reading an ARC from Netgalley.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews