Norwegian Author Lands Million-Dollar Deal for ‘Dragon Viking’ Series

A Norwegian author has struck a seven-figure deal with Penguin Random House for his upcoming fantasy series, “Dragon Viking.” Odin Helgheim’s series, already two books in on the Norwegian market, has been acquired by the world’s largest publisher for all eight planned installments.

The news, reported by Norwegian publication VG, marks a significant win for Helgheim and for Nordic fantasy literature. According to Tormod Løkling, Helgheim’s Norwegian editor at TNT, the deal represents “a really big deal,” and a substantial financial commitment.

“It means a lot of money – and not least is a huge recognition of the work Odin Helgheim has done. This must be a dream come true for anyone involved with drawing and writing,” Løkling told VG.

Helgheim, who also co-creates the comic series “Edelmot” with Victor Sotberg, initially reacted with disbelief when informed of the deal last fall. “First I was completely speechless, followed by a little ‘huh?’ and then a ‘you’re kidding?!’” he recounted to VG.

“Penguin Random House doesn’t mess around. I’ve dedicated my life to comics, so the fact that they’re investing in me and ‘Dragon Viking’ means the world to me,” Helgheim added.

“Dragon Viking” is described as an action-packed and humorous fantasy series rooted in Viking history and Norse mythology. The story follows Ormøye, a thrall, alongside the dragon Fafnir, Stein Steinsson, a jarl’s son, and Gulli, a golden boar, as they embark on a quest to find eight magical runestones scattered throughout the Viking world. Their goal: to defeat all dragons and claim the rewards of treasure, power, and glory.

Helgheim’s previous work includes the “Ragnarok” series, which won the ARK Children’s Book Prize in 2020. The success of “Ragnarok” paved the way for “Dragon Viking,” a project Helgheim describes as more ambitious.

“It’s strange to think that those who started reading ‘Ragnarok’ when they were 10 are now 16. So it felt right to draw a line after book six. I was ready to start something new – and more ambitious. Shortly after, I pitched ‘Dragon Viking,’ and now here we are,” Helgheim explained.

The first two books of the series are already available in Norwegian, and Helgheim has a clear vision for completing the eight-book saga within the next year. He’s even included a subtle nod to his new publishing partner – a penguin – on the cover of the upcoming third book.

The deal highlights a growing interest in Nordic manga and fantasy, according to Løkling, who noted that TNT is seeing increased demand for new titles at international book fairs. Malin Falck’s “Nordlys” series has also achieved significant international success, being sold to around 20 countries.

“We are seeing a major development in the interest in Norwegian and Nordic manga. Now publishers are coming to us and asking if we have anything new when we are at book fairs. It wasn’t like that before,” Løkling said.

TNT has also seen international sales for “Snøkattprinsen” by Dina Nordlund, “Oppfinneren” by Lars Henrik Eriksen, “Dragens Øye” by Cha Sandmæl, and “Ville poter” by Victor Nordahl, all of which have been sold to the American market. The success of these titles, coupled with Helgheim’s deal, signals a strong and growing appetite for stories rooted in Nordic mythology and culture.