All the Horses of Iceland

Tolmie’s (The Fourth Island) writing and Ulf Bjorklund’s narration combine to create a magical storytelling atmosphere, like one relayed by a fireplace of yore. It may be bleak outside, but anticipation for the finale keeps listeners as warm as the fire itself. Icelandic trader Eyvind embarks on an epic quest to bring horses back to Iceland—a journey that takes him to the steppes of Mongolia and back again. Along the way, he contends with ghosts, war, clashing religions, and bandits, eventually rediscovering his place at home. Swedish narrator Bjorklund provides an affable, measured delivery that, along with his Swedish accent, comfortably pulls listeners into this journey across thousands of miles. This brief audiobook concludes satisfyingly, while also feeling like it is a piece of a greater saga. With any luck, a second installment will be coming soon. The brevity of the narrative and Tolmie’s spare writing style do not leave much room for a rich inner life, meaning that listeners who wish for deep character development might not be as enchanted.