Picture a storyteller who spins Viking sagas so vivid you can hear the clash of swords and feel the chill of a Nordic fjord—meet Eric Schumacher! This Amazon bestselling author of historical fiction has carved a niche bringing 10th-century Scandinavia to life. By day, he’s a PR consultant for tech startups; by night, he’s a master weaver of Norse tales, blending meticulous research with heart-pounding adventure.
Born in Los Angeles in 1968, Schumacher’s journey to Viking lore is as fascinating as his novels. His stories have captivated readers worldwide, earning praise for their authenticity and immersive storytelling. Ready to sail into his world? Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this modern skald.
The Making of Eric Schumacher
Growing up in sunny Los Angeles, far from the misty shores of Norway, young Eric was drawn to tales of warrior kings and epic quests. Devouring books by J.R.R. Tolkien, Bernard Cornwell, and C.S. Lewis, he found inspiration in medieval history and mythology. His love for writing sparked early, fueled by late-night Dungeons & Dragons sessions. After studying international business in Germany, Schumacher began crafting his debut novel, God’s Hammer, published in 2005—a bold leap into Viking historical fiction.
Balancing a career in PR for tech and gaming companies, Schumacher’s passion for the Viking Age never waned. His unique ability to merge historical accuracy with gripping narratives stems from a lifelong fascination with turbulent times and complex characters, setting the stage for his acclaimed sagas.
Eric Schumacher’s Unforgettable Stories
Schumacher’s novels transport readers to the brutal yet vibrant Viking Age, where loyalty, betrayal, and destiny collide. His debut, God’s Hammer, introduces Hakon Haraldsson, a Christian king fighting to unify a pagan Norway. Praised for its vivid battle scenes and rich character development, it set the tone for Hakon’s Saga, which continues in Raven’s Feast and War King. Reviewers hail the series as a “masterpiece of historical fiction,” blending fact and fiction seamlessly.
In 2020, Schumacher launched Olaf’s Saga with Forged by Iron, a thrilling tale of Olaf Tryggvason, a legendary Norse king. Narrated by Torgil, a young warrior, the novel captures the harsh beauty of Viking life through a coming-of-age lens. Follow-ups like Sigurd’s Swords and Wolves of Wagria deepen Olaf’s adventures, earning five-star reviews for their “brawny, swashbuckling” energy. Schumacher’s style—marked by meticulous research, evocative prose, and multi-layered characters—makes every page a portal to the past.
His novels stand out for their historical fidelity, weaving in Old Norse terms, Viking customs, and real events like the Battle of Mollebakken. Yet, Schumacher never sacrifices storytelling for facts, crafting narratives that pulse with emotion and action, appealing to both history buffs and adventure seekers.
Why Eric Schumacher Matters
Eric Schumacher has redefined Viking historical fiction, earning a place alongside giants like Bernard Cornwell. His ability to humanize historical figures like Hakon and Olaf resonates with readers, offering fresh perspectives on a well-trodden era. His works inspire curiosity about the Viking Age, encouraging fans to explore its myths and realities. Through his Readers Club and blog, Schumacher engages with a growing community, sharing insights into his research and Viking culture.
His impact extends beyond bookshelves, as audiobooks and global translations bring his stories to new audiences. For fans of immersive, character-driven sagas, Schumacher’s novels are a treasure trove, proving that history can be as thrilling as any fantasy epic.
- Birth Year: 1968
- Key Works: God’s Hammer, Forged by Iron, Sigurd’s Swords, War King
- Genre: Viking Historical Fiction
- Hometown: Santa Barbara, California
Grab Forged by Iron or God’s Hammer and dive into Eric Schumacher’s thrilling Viking world—your inner warrior will thank you!