Referencing ancient archeological discoveries and written accounts, historian Eleanor Barraclough vividly depicts life during the Viking Age.

We typically associate the Viking Age with tall, bearded men, impressive ships, flashing swords, and ruthless plunder.

But there was much more to this ancient civilization than fearsome raids on unsuspecting people.

Based at Bath Spa University, Eleanor Barraclough is a historian and broadcaster whose work focuses on medieval, Viking, and Norse history.

In her 2024 book Embers of the Hands, Barraclough walks us through the Viking world, describing the rich and varied history of this iconic cultural group.