An engaging story of Aidan, an 8th century Irish monk on a 13-man pilgrimage to Byzantium to bring a gift and petition to Basil, the Holy Roman Emperor. He is captured by Vikings and made a slave, yet they eventually becomes his friends . Through the raiding lust of the Northmen, he eventually makes it to Byzantium. The story traces Aidan's rise to a powerful position, but a rise that costs him his faith. Ironically, it is his Viking friends who lead him back to it.

For the most part, I enjoyed the story. There were a couple of weak spots, in my opinion, but nothing to ruin it. Though a relatively long novel, Lawhead keeps the story moving along. The characters are well developed and interesting. Some of his narrative is outstanding. If you're looking for a read that will occupy you for a while and keep you entertained, then Byzantium will. And if you absolutely must have a happy ending, you won't be disappointed. But you'll have to read to the end to get it.
An engaging story of Aidan, an 8th century Irish monk on a 13-man pilgrimage to Byzantium to bring a gift and petition to Basil, the Holy Roman Emperor. He is captured by Vikings and made a slave, yet they eventually becomes his friends. Through the raiding lust of the Northmen, he eventually makes it to Byzantium. The story traces Aidan's rise to a powerful position, but a rise that costs him his faith. Ironically, it is his Viking friends who lead him back to it. For the most part, I enjoyed the story. There were a couple of weak spots, in my opinion, but nothing to ruin it. Though a relatively long novel, Lawhead keeps the story moving along. The characters are well developed and interesting. Some of his narrative is outstanding. If you're looking for a read that will occupy you for a while and keep you entertained, then Byzantium will. And if you absolutely must have a happy ending, you won't be disappointed. But you'll have to read to the end to get it.