"The Last of the Vikings" by John Bowling is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the tumultuous events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The story likely revolves around the characters of Ethel, the daughter of a Danish thane, and other Saxon and Norman figures as they navigate the challenges of war, loyalty, and personal relationships amidst the chaos of invasion. The opening of the novel introduces us to the character of Ethel, who is depicted as a spirited young maiden enjoying a day of hawking in the countryside. Accompanied by her maid and a housecarl, she demonstrates her skills and independence, displaying strong personality traits that suggest she will play a significant role in upcoming events. As the impending threat of the Normans looms over her idyllic life, the opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of conflict, character dynamics, and the struggle for survival as Saxons contend with the invading forces, all while hinting at themes of love and duty intertwined with the elements of chivalry and betrayal. (This is an automatically generated summary.)