A Fate Inked in Blood (Saga of the Unfated, #1) (2024)

4.50!

"You are mine, Born-in-Fire. And I am yours, even if only the two of us know it."

Now many people may not agree with me or love it as much as I did because this is heavily influenced by Norse Mythology and I as an avid fan of it was so engrossed in this, It was like watching your favorite show because the way Danielle write it was nothing short of exceptional. You can always count on Danielle Jensen to write the best books. She just has a way with words that'll make you an addict and there is no therapy or cure that could get you out of it. Believe me I'm a victim of it.

Despite only having read the dark shores series, Danielle L. Jensen has been an auto-buy author for me not just because of her writing style but because of the way she crafts her worlds, characters and fits in the plot sprinkling it with politics and icing it with a unique magic system. This was also another fresh take on the genre 'Romantasy' and I was very impressed by how well she managed it because I found myself loving the romance (or it's just the fact that I am a sucker for romance)

Now this might not be my favorite or the best DLJ book but it was still pretty damn good and worth reading.

"I will be at your back until I cross the threshold to Vallhalla, Born-in-Fire, whether you want me there or not."

Moving on, we had our main characters:

Freya, a shield maiden. She honestly was the best FMC to pick in a Norse inspired world because she reflected that era so well, her actions were, the decisions and her way of thinking really eluded that vibe. She was caring and suffered negligence from her family was sold off to marry so that her family can survive and then again so her husband can marry another woman. Like, she had a lot of patience and control which isn't seen in many characters. However, I did find myself to be very frustrated with her by the second half because what the hell was she thinking, truth be told, I would be as well. If you put yourself in her shoes you would be but that still did not quite help me not be frustrated with her.

Bjorn, was the man 🫡 like so f*cking hot and not only that, he was also very passionate about a lot of stuff *cough* Freya *cough*. He was strong and had a sense of mortality plagued by revenge. His backstory is not any less traumatizing. Captured by the Nordelander under the care of the person that murdered his own mother 😬 only to go back and find his father had remarried, yeah so he had a lot to deal with as well and oh my god the twists surrounding them were amazing.

Danielle has the ability to write the best characters because she so skillfully portrayed Freya's inner monologue and her battles until she finally created a both relatable and an inspiring character. Bjorn's charisma and energy is also unmatched and their sizzling dynamic kept me on the edge of my seat.

"Her fate is inked in her blood."

As the plot, Danielle crafted this immensely beautiful story bonded by the threads of Norse mythology, blending in magical fantasy elements with intricate and gripping twists to create a world that feels both familiar and refreshing. The pacing is a tad bit slow, but as we move forward it picks up along the book as the plot progresses and with each twist and turn moving the story forward, the climax that came before was so thrilling but still it is something that is unresolved , left for the next book to pick up it pieces and carve a potential masterpiece of a sequel.

"No oath is worth your life. No amount of vengeance is worth your happiness, I'll let the past burn to ash, Freya, because you are my present. My future. My destiny. He lifted his other hand to cup my face. 'I love you.'"

The Romance, was swoon-worthy, between Freya who was betrothed to Snorri (a man thrice her age without her will) and Bjorn (Snorri's son). Not really taboo or anything because just believe me as you read you will understand. The way Danielle does it makes sense but coming from someone who hates tropes like these, I loved this one. The fiery passion between the two, the dirty talking, flirting and the overall banter was top-notch. It was also so well balanced with the heartfelt tender moments between them, the tension was literally radiating off the pages and I kid you not when i say this: It was Danielle's best.

“Not all scars we earn are skin-deep, Freya Born-in-Fire.”

The magic system and world building, the magic system was perfect, It was very well researched and done, we got enough information on it to understand the world and its elements but it was also not too heavy, and it was pretty cool to see a world in the reminiscent to Norse cosmology so I'd say it was on point and so was the world building but we can have more, It makes sense because there is another books to come!

All in all, it was a solid start and I believe everyone should try it at least once!!

First read: 4.40
Reread#1: 4.50
Reread #2: 4.50

"You are mine Born-in-Fire. Even if only the two of us know it."

✔️ Norse mythology
✔️ Spicy Viking romantasy
✔️ Forbidden romance
✔️ Forced proximity
✔️ Insta lust paired with slow burn
✔️ One horse

This might be one of the best books I've read this year 👀❤ Everything went right with this one- the plot, the action, the romance and the character arcs. I got no complaints at all. The fact that I could not stop reading it, tells you enough.

The plot starts with Freya bounded by an unwanted marriage, and wants to be a warrior but what people don't know is that she's a gods blessed shield maiden destined for something far greater. Her fate is changed when her husband betrays her to the region's jarl, who wants to use her in order to become king. She soon finds comfort and protection in Bjorn, a warrior sworn to protect her.

I loved the world building, it was easy to fall into and understand, especially for someone who doesn't read much Norse mythology or Viking romances. Basically my knowledge about these things was minimal to non-existent and the author did a brilliant job in writing it in a simplistic yet impactful manner. The pacing is fairly consistent, would say not too slow and not too fast. I absolutely LOVED how action packed it was.

The characters are raw, unfiltered, and so interesting. I loved Freya so much. Believe me, she is not a perfect woman yet she is so lovable. She is fierce, a warrior woman in a world full of controlling men. Struggling with how people around her want to control her and her fate, from protecting those she cares about, to the many betrayals and standing up for herself. I found her to be real. Her portrayal of her insecurities is well written. But most of all, I liked how she never lost her fierceness. She was not shy to battle it out. I also loved how the author wrote her shield powers, and her dark side.

Bjorn, my man. I loved him so much. From the moment he was introduced, he charmed me. He is charismatic, so loyal, so protective and the man can flirt. I loved how deeply he cared for Freya. He never hesitates to protect her. He would go to battles for her. The reveal at the end about him, was predictable but something I still enjoyed.

The romance starts a bit insta lusty from Freya's pov but at the same time it can be justified as attraction too 🤷‍♀️ The slow burn although, it was made up of such witty banter, and angst- I ate it up. Some of the dialogues between the two were making me laugh so much, and the other times I was yearning for them to actually do something together. The chemistry is so intense, absolutely loved it. The spice was HOT, nothing less of what I expected- especially of Bjorn 🥵

The ending was really good, it ends on a cliffhanger 👀 I found one aspect of it predictable. The other one, not so much- my jaw was on the floor. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book 😩😩 My expectations will be HIGH!!

~•~•~
So excited to read it 😍😍😍

For English speakers, the pronunciation of some of the names, locations, and terms in A Fate Inked in Blood might not be intuitive! So with the help of the audiobook narrator, Nina Yndis (who is a native Norwegian speaker), we have created a pronunciation guide with sound clips for you to listen to. You can find it here: https://danielleljensen.com/saga-of-t...

this was a whole bunch of nothing until it was something. that something given in the last 20 pages. that being said, i do have hopes for the rest of the series to come, so i shall be anticipating the sequel.

to put it into perspective: first 30% was interesting, next 50% was meh, last 20% was predictable but intriguing nonetheless. reading battle and war strategy can get kinda boring ngl. the world building was well written, but i wasn’t really paying much attention. the plot was barely moving until we got some twists and turns. i also feel like this book follows the norm for a lot of romantic fantasy books out there, hence the predictably, and my utter boredom.

Bjorn: i feel his masculine energy and i’m eager to see his actions to unfold in the next book.

Freya: her female f*cking rage scenes were the best, and attractive if i made add. i anticipate seeing that the most in the next book.

4.5 ⭐️ Officially in my Viking Fantasy Era!

"They say being given the blood of a god is a gift. But it is a curse."

WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ viking romantasy
✨ norse mythology
✨ meddling gods
✨ prophecies
✨ chosen one
✨ arranged marriage
✨ bodyguard x ‘princess’ trope
✨ forced proximity
✨ insta-lust
✨ friends to lovers
✨ forbidden romance
✨ slow burn
✨ one horse
✨ touch her and die
✨ 2/5 spice
✨ action packed
✨ cliffhanger
✨ single POV
✨ TW: war, violence, loss of family, gaslighting

My Thoughts:

I am a HUGE fan of Danielle L. Jensen's The Bridge Kingdom Series, so when I found out she was writing another fantasy series based on norse mythology, I was so excited. And rightly slow because this first book was fantastic!

PS: If you loved the Netflix show and book series, That Last Kingdom, but wished there was magic and more romance, this story is PERFECT for you!

What I loved:

Freya and Bjorn. Both MCs were likable characters that only got more interesting as we got to know them more. Freya is incredibly selfless, and while sometimes her devotion to others drove me mad (because it was often at her expense), I respect the hell out of her for caring for so many people. I also liked that her thoughts, feelings, and actions seemed realistic for a 'Viking' woman during this 'era'. Bjorn was everything I love in an MMC - charming, funny, strong, loyal, protective, and hellbent on getting revenge. Oh, and he has powers from one of the gods. Because the story is in Freya's POV, it takes time to get his backstory and understand his motives, but even then, there's always a little mystery to him. These characters were well developed and I think we're going to see a lot of growth and change from them in the next book.

The romance and spice. From the moment they meet, Freya and Bjorn have insane chemistry and are clearly meant to be together. However, there is a forbidden aspect to the story that prevents them from making any moves, so there's so much flirty banter, tension, and longing - and I ate it all up! I love how they resisted at first but ultimately, cave to their desires. And those spicy scenes . . . 😮‍💨 Bjorn is a man obsessed and the way he worships Freya is hot as hell.

The premise and overall plot. I don't want to give specifics since it's more fun to find out as you read, but I loved how, almost immediately, Freya finds herself in an interesting predicament where the weight of the world rests on her shoulders. I would say most of the 'exciting' events happen at the beginning as we are introduced to the characters and the end when sh*t hits the fan. This story definitely is setting up for a lot of epic things to occur in the next book and I cannot wait to read it!

The Norse mythology. All my knowledge of Norse mythology comes from watching TV shows and movies like Thor and Vikings, which doesn't really give that much detail. So I was really interested in learning more about the gods and how they 'rule' and insert themselves into the lives of humans. The way Danielle L. Jensen explains the gods and the magic system was easy to understand. Jensen has a gift for giving enough important information without overwhelming or boring the reader, but also withholding some information so it can be expanded on in the future.

The world-building. Jensen is an incredible writer who always does an amazing job introducing readers to an entirely new world without info-dumping. I really liked that this world felt familiar (with the viking-esque elements) but at the same time it felt entirely other and different. I do want to see a map though, to get a better understanding of the distances and directions between the towns we visit in this story.

The only reason I can't give this book 5-stars is . . .

The plot twists were very predictable. I still found the story to be incredibly interesting but I do love a shocking reveal, and that just didn't really happen here. There was ONE that (sort of) took me by surprise, but the major twists were easy to pick up from the obvious bread crumbs left throughout the story. Because of this, the plot felt a bit formulaic. But again, the story was still interesting enough that it didn't deter me from reading or having a good time.

Overall, A Fate Inked In Blood was a great first book to this series and I cannot wait to read the next book(s). I definitely recommend it if you enjoy fantasy, mythology, and forbidden romance.

Thank you Del Rey for providing a free physical ARC and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! As always, all opinions are my own.

Favorite Quotes: *Potential Spoilers - Read at your own risk*

"Not all scars we earn are skin-deep, Freya Born-in-Fire. There is no less honor in them."
_______

"Don't underestimate my tongue, Freya. Especially in the dark."
_______

"Don't you ever put yourself in danger for me again."
"'Why? Because your father will kill you if I so much as stub my toe?"
"No," he answered. "Because I don't deserve it."
_______

"I have a great many doubts," he finally said. "But the courage of Freya Born-in-Fire is not one of them."
_______

"This is why I like you, Freya. You've got a brain between your ears and a saucy tongue to voice the thoughts within it."
_______

"It is hard to keep one's wit when faced with a woman as beautiful as the sight of shores to a man who has been lost at sea.
_______

I wanted. Wanted so many things, and it felt like I was fated to have none of them.
_______

"I wanted you the moment I first set eyes on you. I wanted you in Fjalltindr. I want you now, and tomorrow, and all the tomorrows, Freya."
_______

"I was going to point out that you have a habit of getting very wet around me. I'm starting to wonder whether it's purposeful."
_______

"I will be at your back until I cross the threshold to Valhalla, Born-in-Fire, whether you want me there or not."
_______

It was easy to take risks when one faced death but far more difficult to take them when one faced life, and that was what he promised.
_______

"You'd leave?"
"Yes."
"But . . . You'd be giving up so much. Your family. Your people. The chance for vengence against Harald. The chance to rule Skaland."
"I don't want to rule. I want you."
_______

"I'll have all of you or none of you."
_______

"You are mine, Born-in-Fire. And I am yours, even if only the two of us know it."
_______

"I'll let the past burn to ash, Freya, because you are my present. My future. My destiny."
_______

"There is no future where I would regret choosing you, Freya."
_______

"I used to dream only of fire and ash. Now when I close my eyes, all I see is your face."
_______

"I'll kill anyone who tries to take you from me."
_______

"I want to see this body beneath me every night and every morning. I want to see your face when I make you come each and every time.
_______

So, this started out really strong for me- I was loving every single page.. which progressively dwindled until I got to around 40% and then I just hit a brick wall. This book is almost 100% telling and no showing. Everything is just told to the reader but at the same time, things aren’t explained or described very well.

Told in 1st person POV we follow our FMC Freya who is the wife of a fisherman. She's clearly unhappy and in a terrible marriage and dreams of becoming a warrior. Within the first or second chapter we meet Bjorn who is our love interest and it's very lust at first sight...ehh I'm on the fence with that, sometimes I don't mind it.. sometimes I find it cringe...

Anyway, shortly after their meeting while strolling to mom and dads house with some fish she stumbles across the region's jarl - her husband had betrayed her by revealing that she had a drop of blood from a goddess hence giving her goddess power. She was not aware that he knew this information as her father had told her to never speak of it to anyone since she was a child - this puts her in a precarious situation due to the prophecy that has been told to the 'king' / jarl that the shieldmaiden would unite the lands under one king.

Alright, all of this so far is definitely my jam.. but where I struggled is first and foremost in a 'romantasy' book I NEED an engaging plot, I NEED worldbuilding. I need that to drive the book way more than I need 400 pages of two characters lusting after each other.

There was very little worldbuilding... I really just imagined the world from the show Vikings to get me through most.

There is this prophecy that we keep hearing about but there is very little crumbs you are offered throughout the story... just repetitive blind following of the gods.

I also struggled a bit with the pacing, the beginning started off with a bang and the middle was way slower than I would have liked. That may just be a me problem- my ADHD can run wild when I read and if I'm not kept engaged I drift and become very uninterested in a story.

I just didn't feel like the storytelling was as well structured or as vivid as The Bridge Kingdom. Which is not to say all is lost with this book, I will likely continue the series- and I think if you prefer the romance aspect over the fantasy (worldbuilding and story weaving) then you may enjoy it much more than I did.

Keep in mind that this FMC wants to be Lagertha from The Vikings so bad but she does not deliver on that level at all. If you want a fierce shield maiden, watch The Vikings.

✔𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞
✔𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐲
✔𝐅𝐞𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐛𝐲 𝐅𝐌𝐂
✔𝐎𝐥𝐝 𝐆𝐨𝐝𝐬
✔𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲
✔𝐁𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞/𝐖𝐚𝐫

Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group and Danielle L. Jensen for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

« It is hard to keep one’s wits when faced with a woman as beautiful as the sight of shore to a man who has been lost at sea »

☀️ Strong FMC
☀️ God blessed & abilities
☀️ Norse mythology
☀️ Toxic family relationships and their actual dynamics
☀️ Amazing romance - I’d say slow burn

« How are you to know wether the choice you made changed anything? »

Danielle L. Jensen KNOWS how write a good romance. If Bjorn told me to be a puddle - i would become a puddle. That man is everything 🫠
The author also really grasped the concept of toxic family and how complicated it is.
« I’d told my mother that I was through with her. "It’s time you made your own way in the world"… A lie, because I refused to abandon her »

I expected the twist at the end, but I still enjoyed this and devoured it.
« It was not lost on me that I’d once dreamed of greatness, and now, presented with it, it felt like the last thing I wanted »

« There is no future where I would regret choosing you »

Thank you @Vivian Diaz for this amazing book 😭 I’ll forever keep this in my heart ❤️

——————————————————————————-
Preread ; As some of you might have seen - the beginning of my week was riding me pretty hard and I was very overwhelmed
That being said, my precious Vivian Diaz got me a book to put a little sunshine into my week and it VERY MUCH WORKED. Because what kind of amazing human being is she? I still can’t wrap my head around this 😭 I know I’ve repeated myself a lot but ILYSM wifey❤️ I just know this book will deliver for me now 😭
The friends I’ve met here 🥹 this community is everything

dnf 40%

I've read four books and just started the fifth one since I started reading this story. This type of situation is usually a huge indication that the book I’m reading - or rather trying to read - is simply not working for me, so unfortunately I have to stop at this point. Trust me, I hate to say this because I was extremely excited about this title, but I just don't care enough, or at all to continue it.

I don't know if it's the writing style, which, although quite okay, didn't draw me into the plot, or the characters, who, although interesting, didn’t interest me because I couldn’t connect to them. I literally forced myself to read it and I told myself that I would stop doing it because it always puts me into a reading slump, so sadly I have to say goodbye to it. I'm happy for the people who loved it though. I wish it was me, because when I was younger I was obsessed with Vikings and Norse mythology.

I wanted so badly to have a good time with this -- vikings! prophecy! romance! this was the extent I knew about this but hey, it all spells fun -- but sadly.. it was a fairly meh start followed by a serious slog of a second half and if I was any less stubborn I would've given up around the 45-55% mark.

While the setting and structure of the plot have some decent (if not unique) bones, I was constantly frustrated by the characters. Basically everyone but our lead and her romantic interest is varying shades of unpleasant or villain or stupid which forces you to have really no choice but to root for the main set (who are also fairly one-dimensional), which feels like such a lazy way of writing, and with so many characters at odds around them it just felt exhausting to wade through the various interactions; especially as so many were just constant repeats of what had come before. And there wasn't even any relief with the love interest because I just didn't feel the romantic connection. Because they were unfated/children of the gods sure but what else (but also what does this even mean, does the author even know?). The thrill of wanting what you can't have? Eh. Give me more.

What doesn't help all this was also how inconsistent I found both the writing itself and how the author wrote her characters and their dialogue -- for the latter it was awkward and kind of all over the place, alternating between stiff and stilted and then more modern-sounding. As an example of the former, upon Freya being introduced to one of the few female chieftains she's awed in the first chapter, filled with puppy-like adoration in another, annoyed at being called out for her transparency in one paragraph, which she takes out on someone else, then immediately goes to dance and get drunk, laughing uproariously about what a great time everyone is having (a whole bunch of people just died). So, there's like.. five, tops, interactions over a handful of days. And yet we're meant to believe she goes into a berserker "how could you do this to me how could you take her away from me" heartbroken rage in the next chapter upon her death? The most unbelievable thing. Actually, no. Just one of.

Also let's not get started on her nickname, "Born in Fire/Borninfire". The least roll-off-the-tongue name ever and it was flung around constantly. But at least it wasn't proclaiming her intelligence because she had no critical thinking skills at all; she spends the entire book thinking someone is out to get her and a traitor and never wonders why the one person who should also be leaping at the chance to expose this person.. isn't. Perhaps it's a cLuE.

And, finally, the end climax twist reveal really hammered it home with! all! the! exclamation! points! save! me!

Much like Freya on her frostbitten toes, I felt every painful step forward through this story as if I had instead completed a mile. The fact that I also got stuck in this for over a week just really added to the hurt.

So, yeah. Just.. nothing about this really worked for me. I'm bummed. But I pushed through, I'm here, I made it. Is it a duology, a trilogy, an extended epic? Whatever it is, I don't think I'll be reading on.

1.5 stars

** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **

---

This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.

“You are mine, Born-in-Fire. Even if only the two of us know it."

To think this all started with a fish slap to the face 😂

This was my first Norse mythology and forbidden love viking book despite already being acquainted with some of the gods mentioned and I had a good time with it. The world building here didn’t feel difficult to get into but instead easily comprehensible and i believe the author did great in laying it all out. I also have to note that I did put this on pause initially for a bit given that i wasn’t in the mood for it at the time (ignore how long) but i binged the last 35% like my life depended on it! The slow burn was so real here that when something finally happened I wasn’t left disappointed 🤭

“I used to dream only of fire and ash," he whispered, running a thumb over my cheek as I lifted my face to meet his gaze. "Now when I close my eyes, all I see is your face.”

Bjorn & Freya.. the banter, tension, push and pull and angst between them was everything. I was eating up all the crumbs we got of them throughout this until the very end. Bjorn was such a grumpy brute towards everyone but so soft & charming to freya and that type will always do it for me. I loved how protective he was of her (he was giving warrior bodyguard vibes) while also encouraging her how she could forge her own fate for the most part. And his power and axe? I couldn’t help but imagine a different even hotter version of Thor with how he’s described to look like which made my impression of him even better

"Her fate is inked in her blood," "It's carved in her bones. This power is Freya's destiny."

Now Freya, just as bjorn put it how the part of her that he hates the most is also the reason he loves her because same lol she wasn’t always given a choice in life with the family she was dealt with and those around her other than because she was the shield maiden. She was completely selfless and protective over those that didn’t deserve it—other than a bit naive and it equally angered and bothered me but i did admire her whenever she stood her ground as she had to navigate this world of men in control as they were even being the powerful warrior that she’s portrayed to be. I can see the potential for more character development on her end and can’t wait for what’s next for her

Aside from Freyas family and others, Snorri was completely delusional and egotistical in his quest to become king. this man was such a joke of a character and I need someone to really humble him in the next book

some thoughts:

The immediate mutual attraction between them kinda felt like insta-lust? but I considered her past circ*mstances with her ex husband so I excused it as it didn’t bother me given the connection that was there. At times it felt like nothing was happening yet things were happening if that makes sense. it was also slow in the middle to me but once it picked up I couldn’t put it down with everything that was happening that made it shift to a more thrilling experience

The cliffhanger and twists towards the end I was able to pick up on except one through earlier foreshadowing but had no idea how it was gonna unfold. it was still enjoyable and has me eagerly anticipating book 2 and all that’ll happen there. I’m also holding out hope for dual pov and some groveling

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review

Some other quotes:

“I wanted you the moment I first set eyes on you. I wanted you in Fjalltindr. I want you now, and tomorrow, and all the tomorrows, Freya.”

“Freya used to be a good and loyal woman."''She still is. You're just no longer worthy of her loyalty.”

“Not all scars we earn are skin-deep, Freya Born-in-Fire.” “There is no less honor in them.”

”They’d brought this fight to me, but I’d be the one who finished it.”

4.5 ★

im usually a big fan of Norse mythology and Vikings, so i was surprised when i initially picked this book up a couple months ago and it failed to grab my attention at the time. but im so glad that i came back to it cause i ended up really enjoying this book and the characters. the world and magic is easy to get a grasp on, with certain people being blessed with power from the gods and all the fight scenes were written so well i could picture it all in my head. i do think that the ending was a little too predictable though and i found myself getting annoyed by some of the decisions being made. but the story worked so well for me overall, so even despite those few issues, i am still desperately awaiting the next book in this series⏳.

“You’re the one holding the weapon”. “And yet I feel entirely at your mercy,” he said.

the other main part of this book is the romance, so i’ll focus on that side of the story now. i loved Freya and Bjorn together, although their dynamic started off as insta lust, their progression in developing stronger feelings felt natural. they have some of the best banter ever and i absolutely adored the way Bjorn cared for Freya from the beginning. the tension built so slowly in the best way as well. Freya is a strong character on her own, despite her circ*mstances and i feel like Bjorn complimented her so amazingly. he’s so devoted and will never back down in any aspect and i was so obsessed with this man. i found them so easy to root for— both together and separately.

“All of me is yours, Freya. It may not be equal to the measure of your value, but it’s all I have.”

thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for the arc, all opinions are my own.

“You are mine, Born-in-Fire. Even if only the two of us know it.” ❤️

I absolutely loved this book!! This was an epic and fantastic Norse inspired romantasy full of betrayal, battles, magic, forbidden love, fate and more! This book has everything I love in fantasy romance including forbidden love, slow-burn, one-horse, magic, amazing chemistry between the main characters and more. I fell in love with this enchanting world and the characters from the very beginning. I was so completely transported into this world that I experienced every event and feelings the characters felt as if it were my own. The world building was excellent, the Norse inspired world was crafted so well, and I loved learning about the gods, magic, people and culture. The writing was so descriptive and beautiful, I felt that every word had a purpose. This book reminded me why I fell in love with reading and brought me to my happy place. There were several betrayals that left me shocked and heartbroken. This is one of my favorite books of the year, the world, the characters and the writing have my heart! The ending was so exciting and shocking! I can't wait to read the next book!

"I'll let the past burn to ash, Freya, because you are my present. My future. My destiny." ❤️

The characters are so well crafted and developed. I love Freya so much, she is brave, stubborn, resilient, caring, protective, strong and compassionate. I'm so inspired Freya, so won't give up and will always put her family before herself. Freya's character development was amazing, she learned about herself and realized how resilient she is. I'm in love with Bjorn, he is strong, brave, charming, sarcastic, stubborn, protective, and so sweet to Freya. Bjorn is so swoon worthy and I love how soft he is for Freya, he will do anything for her and follow her anywhere. I blushed and giggled at so many of the scenes where he was sweet to Freya. Bjorn's character development was excellent, he showed a softer side of himself and was able to talk about his past. The chemistry and tension between Freya and Bjorn was amazing! The spice was so steamy, I blushed so much! The slow-burn was well done, I enjoyed how their feelings for one another evolved throughout the book. There were many romantic scenes that had me blushing and giggling (the bath scene).

"There is no future where I would regret choosing you. I wish I realized it sooner. For nearly all my life, revenge for what was done to my mother was all that mattered for me. It consumed my every waking breath and i refused to allow anything else to matter. Then the most fierce and beautiful woman I've ever laid eyes on hit me in the face with a fish ruled by something deeper than hate. I used to dream only of fire and ash, now when I close my eyes, all I see is your face." (swooning)

I recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy romance, great characters, excellent world building and awesome chemistry between the main characters.

My heart is broken. BROKEN...

From start to finish, "A Fate Inked in Blood" completely captivated me! This novel seamlessly weaves Norse mythology into a spicy Viking romantasy, featuring a forbidden romance, forced proximity, insta-lust, slow burn, and an unforgettable horse.

Everything about this novel is sheer perfection—the thrilling plot, heart-pounding action, swoon-worthy romance, and brilliantly crafted character arcs. Even for readers new to Norse mythology and Viking romances, the world-building is incredibly immersive and easy to grasp.

I particularly adored Freya, our imperfect yet lovable protagonist. She's a fierce warrior woman navigating a world dominated by controlling men. And Bjorn, our charismatic and protective leading man, stole my heart. His love for Freya is palpable from their first meeting, sparking countless witty banters that had me laughing out loud. The chemistry between them is off the charts, filled with witty banter and undeniable passion.

The ending left me on the edge of my seat with a jaw-dropping cliffhanger—I simply can't wait for the next installment! If you love fantasy romance with compelling characters, rich world-building, and sizzling chemistry, I highly recommend picking up "A Fate Inked in Blood."

Ps. thank you all manifest this 5 star read. lol

..............................................................................................................

Maybe you will be my next 5 star read.... let's manifest this!

★3.5 stars, rounded down

✎𓂃 “I wanted you the moment I first set eyes on you. I wanted you in Fjalltindr. I want you now, and tomorrow, and all the tomorrows, Freya.”

Okay friends, don’t come for me, trust me this rating hurts me to give!! 🫣😭

☆I’ll Start With What I Did Love:
The romance delivered. Freya may not have been my favorite, but Freya and Bjorn together?! 😮‍💨 Their banter, their lust, their chemistry leapt off the page and I lived for every second. I loved that Freya wasn’t afraid to admit her feelings and ask for what she wanted. Can’t blame her! Bjorn and his massive fiery ax…Tyr save me 🔥🤭🫠

✎𓂃“No oath is worth your life. No amount of vengeance is worth your happiness. I’ll let the past burn to ash, Freya, because you are my present. My future. My destiny.”

My hardcover copy also has metallic teal sprayed edges and it might be the most beautiful book on my shelf 😍

☆And What I Didn’t Love:
If you combined Vikings with From Blood And Ash, you would get this story. I found many of the twists to be predictable unfortunately, which pains me to say as I loved Jensen’s previous work. A strong-willed FMC, labeled as a “maiden,” someone who is constantly used, has hidden powers and a tendency towards violence? Along with a desire to want who she shouldn’t? And that final twist? If I didn’t have FBAA in my mind from the beginning, that for sure sealed the deal.

I mentioned previously that Freya was not my favorite, as even though she is a strong badass FMC, she was also a bit too naive for my preference. Her family was a piece of work, and I felt for her every time she continuously sacrificed herself for their wellbeing. But Bjorn was right every single time: they did not deserve her.

This isn’t all to say that I didn’t enjoy the book, because I definitely did. I liked the Norse mythology, but would have loved an even deeper dive into this aspect. Hoping the next in the series delivers on that, and bc it ends on a cliffhanger, I of course have to continue the series. This might be for Bjorn alone, but who can blame a girl??? 😅

☆Quotes:
✎𓂃“If a bird sh*ts on his head, he’ll find a story to spin to make it seem a message from Odin himself. But sometimes, Freya, it’s just sh*t.”

✎𓂃“Don’t underestimate my tongue, Freya. Especially in the dark.”

✎𓂃“‘I have a great many doubts,’ he finally said. ‘But the courage of Freya Born-in-Fire is not one of them.’”

✎𓂃“It is hard to keep one’s wits when faced with a woman as beautiful as the sight of shore to a man who has been lost at sea.”

✎𓂃“She is much consumed by fear for her home and Snorri has a man’s ability to offer comfort, which is to say none at all.”

* ゜・。。・゜゜・。。・゜*
Pre-review:
I’ve seen nothing but great things about this! Slowly but surely working my way through my physical tbr, but lemme tell you, my body is beyond ready for some spicy Norse romantasy 😏😮‍💨

Time and time again, Danielle L. Jensen delivers amazing fantasy romances that take your breath away. A Fate Inked in Blood is no different. Even at 10%, I knew this was going to be good.

She has an amazing way of driving a plot throughout the story that gets you at the edge of the seat. Official auto-buy author for me now.

Read More:
A Fate Inked in Blood: My Honest Book Review

I love the Viking aspect of this story. The author captures their life, their beliefs, and even the combat scenes. It felt realistic and I wanted to dive more into the life of a Viking.

The characters are amazing and yet frustrating at the same time? Shows that they are flawed and I am hoping to see some character development in the next book.

All in all, I need the second book soon.

Connect With Me:

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Happy Pub Day to this gorgeous book! I was lucky enough to receive my (preordered) hardcover copy last week and the stamped hard case and blue gilded edges are stunning!!! 🩵

“Not all scars we earn are skin-deep, Freya Born-in-Fire.” “There is no less honor in them.”

I’ll be honest, I knew I was going to enjoy this book, before even reading the first page. When one of my favorite authors announced she was writing a Norse inspired Fantasy Romance, with a shield maiden named Freya, as the main character… I immediately preordered it. But I wasn’t expecting this to have everything I could ever want in a book, and some how even more.

“I will be at your back until I cross the threshold to Valhalla, Born-in-Fire, whether you want me there or not.”

The banter, with absolutely ridiculous humor (I’m pretty sure I actually snorted a few times), to the phenomenal Norse mythology elements, made me devour this book. I stayed up until the wee hours of the morning, and fell asleep clutching my kindle, because I just couldn’t put this book down. And don’t even get me started on the incredible sexual tension, the mutual pining, forbidden love, enemies to friends to lovers, SHIELD WALLS, and the revenge plot. 😈

“In our world, power is most often achieved with violence.”

This entire book was a thrilling adventure, with exceptional pacing, that barely gave me a moment to catch my breath. Considering the fact I was punching the air and yelling “F*CK YEAH” by chapter 2, I knew this was going to be great. The rage and absolute need for retribution I felt from these characters, was noticeable very early in the story. But the devotion, determination, bravery… and yet, heart breaking self doubt, you see through especially Freya’s perspective, made her one of my favorite and one of the most relatable characters I’ve seen in a while. And Bjorn… he’s got BVDE, and I fell in love with him the second he stepped out of the fjord. 🫦The tension and respect between these two, was a delicious slow burn at its finest.

“Freya used to be a good and loyal woman.””She still is. You’re just no longer worthy of her loyalty.”

If you’ve read The Bloodsworn Saga by John Gwynne, and loved it… but thought what if this was sexier? Or possibly you’ve enjoyed, another one of my favorites Wolf of the Sands by Amy Kuivalainen, or maybe you love the show, Vikings?!? This book is for you. It’s filled with strong female characters, epic Norse mythology, and although quite different writing styles, they both feature characters with “gods blood” or that have been touched by the gods. I truly think this is a phenomenal book, and have already preordered the hardback first edition with gilded edges and a bunch of other stunning extras, from my local Indie bookstore.

“They say being given the blood of a god is a gift,"I whispered. “But it's a curse.”

Thank you to Danielle Jensen, and Random House Publishing Group, for the opportunity to read this ARC from NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.

P.S. I absolutely recommend a glass of dry mead while listening to Hozier’s “Blood Upon the Snow”, after finishing this incredible book. 🍺⚔️🖤

I KNEW IT!
brb just going to go punch a wall or something real quick

4⭐️

THE PLOT

Freya is bound to an unwanted marriage where she spends her days gutting fish and dreams of one day becoming a warrior. Her dreams soon become a reality when she is betrayed by her husband and is told to fight to the death against the region's jarl's son, Bjorn. In order to survive, Freya must reveal her deepest secret: she carries goddess's blood making her a shield maiden, meaning that she can repel any attack. It has been foretold that her magic will unite a fractured nation, so she is to marry the nation's jarl. Believing this is her destiny, Bjorn is ordered to protect Freya from enemies while she goes through trials given by the gods. The only problem? Everyone wants her either dead or to use her, and you never know who is looking for which one.

MY THOUGHTS

The Plot: I actually thought this book was so incredibly well written. I had such an amazing time reading this book. There was magic, there was love, there was betrayal, there was EVERYTHING!! This book did not disappoint in any sense. The magic system in this book was explained very well so everything was very easy to understand! I'm not someone to judge on accuracy when reading mythology books but I really did enjoy and have fun reading about the viking mythology that was the center of this plot. It was such an easy and fast read, and there was always something going on. It hooked you right from the beginning! The plot twists at the end literally had me gasping I did not expect to read what I did but I thoroughly enjoyed it! A big trope that was featured in this book was forbidden love and you all KNOW how much of a sucker I am for that trope. The one thing that might throw people off a bit is that it is a weird son-in-law romance BUT HEAR ME OUT. It's not a typical, "I'm gonna marry your dad and then get with his son" kind of deal no no no. You'll have to read the book to understand but I PROMISE it's not as bad as it sounds. I'd also like to mention there is a good amount of spice in this book but not so much to the point where it takes away from the plot!! I had a good time reading that as well and thought that was also well written.

The Characters: I had such a good yet hard time with the characters in this book. I loved the character development of Freya throughout the book. She is a certified bad-ass...however, the way she was written later on in the book really got on my nerves. She started off as such a strong FMC then became such a pushover and people walked all over her and she never stood up for herself. Like why did she digress like that? That was the one thing that really stuck out as unnerving to me. I have a love-hate relationship with Bjorn. I love me a man thats a touch her and you die kind of person, ya feel? However, at the end of the book he just got on my nerves. I also struggled to see the true connection between him and Freya? Like I can see the chemistry and tension but they just didn't seem to...fit at times. That could totally just be me though!! Along with that, I also struggled to like a majority of the characters in this book too :( I wanted to like them more than I actually did.

Overall, I had a great time reading this book and I really look forward to reading this rest of the series!! This delivered on so many different levels and I highly recommend this to norse mythology lovers that like a bit of fantasy mixed in!!

FAVORITE SCENES AND QUOTES

But I wanted to do more than just survive. I wanted my days to be more than time I needed to endure. I wanted to live them, to relish them. To find passion and excitement in them the way I had for that fleeting moment on the beach with a stranger.

I needed to be number. To do what needed to be done, to say the things that needed to be said, and to be what these people wanted me to be, because those I loved most depended on my compliance.
And I refused to fail them, no matter how much it cost me.

"I have a great many doubts, but the courage of Freya Born-in-Fire is not one of them."

"It is hard to keep one's wits when faced with a woman as beautiful as the sight of shore to a man who has been lost at sea."

"Your looks aren't good enough to compensate for your tongue."
"Don't underestimate my tongue, Freya. Especially in the dark."

My family understood me. My friends understood me. But there were parts of me that they wanted to change, whereas Bjorn seemed to accept the way I was. Seemed to encourage the parts of my character that everyone else in my life tried to quash.

"I should feel terrible guilt, but I don't. So I need to make myself feel hurt another way, to punish myself, because I'm afraid if I don't, I'll do it again."

"I wanted you the moment I first set eyes on you. I wanted you in Fjalltindr. I want you now, and tomorrow, and all the tomorrows, Freya."

"No oath is worth your life. No amount of vengeance is worth your happiness. I'll let the past burn to ash, Freya, because you are my present. My future. My destiny."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I haven't read a fantasy in forever!! I hope this delivers 🤞🏼🩵

i was probably not planning on starting this anytime soon ,but Sabrina really got me interested in this👀 ready to learn more about my girl freya

“They say being given the blood of a god is a gift,” I whispered. “But it’s a curse.”

It was not lost on me that I’d once dreamed of greatness, and now, presented with it, it felt like the last thing I wanted.

this was an enjoyable fantasy romance. the nordic setting with viking/norse mythology inspiration was a refreshing change from the typical anglican medieval settings we often see in this genre. there are some commonly used fantasy tropes and admittedly this was a bit predictable for me, but the chemistry between freya and bjorn was sizzling and delicious and made it enjoyable to read. the writing paints a vivid picture as we follow the story, with norse rituals and action-packed scenes.

while i enjoyed bridge kingdom, this was definitely an improvement for me. i'm intrigued enough by the end to continue the series with the next book. i might never look at the lemons the same again tho lolllll

TW for some violence but also there's a good amount of vomit lol

“It is hard to keep one’s wits when faced with a woman as beautiful as the sight of shore to a man who has been lost at sea.”

“You’ve never been alone,” Bjorn said, his voice so soft that no one but me would hear over the wind and my weeping. “I will be at your back until I cross the threshold to Valhalla, Born-in-Fire, whether you want me there or not.”

“Your looks aren’t good enough to compensate for your tongue.”
In the faint light, I saw him smirk. “Don’t underestimate my tongue, Freya. Especially in the dark.”

“I don’t want to rule,” he answered. “I want you.”

“You are mine, Born-in-Fire. Even if only the two of us know it.”

I love Norse mythology, Vikings, shieldmaidens (thank you Éowyn from Lord of the Rings), fantasy, magic, medieval battles, forbidden romance, slowburns but instant attraction – and let’s not forget the absolutely gorgeous cover – so it was only natural I would adore this book!

“It is hard to keep one’s wits when faced with a woman as beautiful as the sight of shore to a man who has been lost at sea.”

ᛝ PLOT SUMMARY ᛝ
20-year-old Freya is the wife of toxic fisherman Vragi, who longs to be away from her horrid husband waging wars like her brother Geir can. Her husband betrays Freya by revealing her secret to Jarl Snorri: she is a child of the Norse goddess Hlin, possessing a drop of her blood as well as some magical powers that she has attempted to hide. She is also unfated, meaning that though the Gods may have predictions her fate is not set in stone therefore unpredictable.

Snorri has been searching for her for 2 decades since a seer prophesied that Freya would be the one to unite the people of Skaland under one King, marrying her so he would eventually become said King from the prophecy. His son Bjorn, possessing Tyr’s blood, is tasked with being her protégé and mentor, teaching her how to fight. Handsome, witty and kind but also burdened by his past, he and Freya get on like a house on fire (or should I say cabin? Sorry!). And I mean they really get on. He saves her, she saves him. But therein arises a problem: she loves him but how is he possibly an option when she is wedded to his father?

Finally able to live the life she dreamed of as a warrior, the prospects do not seem as pleasant as they once did. With the threat of just about everyone wanting to possess her for her powers or straight-up kill her, the inevitability of the loss of innocent lives no matter her choices, a cryptic spectre that keeps appearing, and on top of everything a traitor in their midst, Freya gets more than what she bargained for.

This book is told from the first-person past tense perspective of Freya.

ᛯ OVERALL OPINIONS ᛯ
This is my first Danielle L Jensen book and I cannot believe I have not read her work sooner! Be assured, The Bridge Kingdom series is going further up my TBR list. I was a little late to buying a physical copy and even later reading it, but I am ever so glad I have now!

<< Positives >>
Aside from its stunning blue dust cover and art, the story’s plot itself was excellent – so much so that

<< Negatives >>
• The cliffhanger ending. Don’t get me wrong, it was good, I am just not so keen when people do it – though I can see why it has been selected, and it was done most effectively.
• The only thing missing from the book has to be a map. I know it isn’t necessary but I like to see where things are in relation to other places.

ᛞ NORSE INSPIRATION ᛞ
The main inspiration that can be seen is both the use of Norse Gods and their powers, but also including shieldmaidens and seers. The ideas of rune tattoos and warpaints are also very accurate – it almost makes me want to get runes as tattoos!
Shieldmaidens were very respected. Seers were an important figure in Norse mythology, able to see into the future and were usually women who practiced Sei∂r (prophetic magic). Vikings believed greatly in fate so these people were viewed very highly.

<< List of characters with Norse God powers (& what they are) >>
🠚 Freya – Hlin, Goddess of Protection (protective glow around objects) and Hel, Goddess of Death (able to kill people by cursing them)
🠚 Bjorn – Tyr, God of War (wields fire axe)
🠚 Vragi – Njord, God of the Sea (enables control of sea creatures, quicker fishing)
🠚 Bodil – Forseti, God of Justice (able to tell if someone is lying or not)
🠚 Tora – Thor, God of Thunder (lightning)
🠚 Skade – Ullr, God of Archery and Hunting (uses magical arrows that never miss their target)

ᛟ CHARACTERS ᛟ
-ˋˏ ᛥ ꒰ Freya | ᚠᚱᛅᚢᛁᛅ ꒱ ᛥ ˎˊ-
↳ Freya is “a clever, passionate woman with a good heart”. She is someone I went easily from love to hate to love, and that’s a good thing because it means

*⁀➷ Favourite quotes
• nothing about life was fair, yet I was so sick of seeing those who were powerless harmed by the actions of those who were supposed to protect them.
• “Perhaps as well as possessing the blood of a god, you are also descended from the Valkyries of old.” – Bjorn (about Freya)
• “You are a goddess among women” – Bjorn (about Freya)
• I’d lead all the warriors in our camp into battle on their faith that I was someone worth following. I wanted to prove I was worth it. Wanted them to fight at my side not because of signs from the gods but because I was strong and capable.
• “It will be Hel who takes you in death, King.”

-ˋˏ ᛥ ꒰ Bjorn | ᛒᛁᚢᚱᚾ ꒱ ᛥˎˊ-
↳ Ahhh Bjorn, I love him. I absolutely love him! And the complexities of his own. Since his first moment in the book, I was captivated much like Freya. He also has a strained relationship with his family, mainly his father Snorri and stepmother Ylva but he does his duty to them, and protects them.
🠚 I am a sucker for Viking men – but

*⁀➷ Favourite quotes
• “So either you are vain or you are very stupid.”
Bjorn spread his arms wide. “Why not both?”
• “You’ve never been alone… I will be at your back until I cross the threshold to Valhalla, Born-in-Fire, whether you want me there or not.”
• “You are mine, Born-in-Fire. Even if only the two of us know it.”
• “For nearly all my life, revenge for what was done to my mother was all that mattered to me. It consumed my every waking breath and I refused to allow anything else to matter. Then the most fierce and beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on hit me in the face with a fish and proceeded to wind her way into my heart. To make me want a life ruled by something deeper than hate.”
• “I used to dream only of fire and ash,” he whispered, running a thumb over my cheek as I lifted my face to meet his gaze. “Now when I close my eyes, all I see is your face.”

Filed under: p*rn-without-plot

I was betting my soul on this book. Unfortunately, there really isn’t anything positive I can say about it. The two-star rating? Those are pity stars. 🥺 The only reason I didn’t give this book a 1-star rating is because my other 1-star reads are worse than this one. (This is NOT a good reason!) Also, I feel a sense of loyalty towards DLJ for writing some of my all-time favorite books (i.e., Stolen Songbird and The Bridge Kingdom). Sue me.

A Fate Inked In Blood just had to feature the World's Dumbest Heroine-Hero Duo™ ever. 🤡 Dare me to name just ONE smart decision made by either Freya or Bjorn and I might just have to stab my tongue with a fork. These two characters did NOT think with their brains AT ALL. Freya in particular is perpetually horny even in the midst of battle, and her thoughts are 90% plagued by Bjorn’s chiseled body. Don’t even get me started on the romance-that-was-not-actually-romantic. (Hint: go back and read the first line of my review.)

Despite them being incredibly shallow, they were the ONLY characters that even had some relevance to the book. The “villain(s)” (jury’s still out on who the real villains are) had absolutely no depth and had no good reason to be villain(s). The side characters were not memorable and didn't hold any significance to the story.

The plot should have made a big impact on my rating, but there really wasn’t any story to begin with. There was nothing unique about this if you compare it to other popular romantasy books out there right now. The plot was formulaic. Everything from the sequence of events to the dialogue were just very typical and repetitive. The twists were predictable. Things were so convenient for Freya. (I found it hilarious how Bjorn would disappear for five minutes then come back out to save her from some situation (whether life threatening or not)). I started reading this book ironically at some point.

Leaving this review on a bright note: The smut scenes were so funny. (Okay, this isn’t a good thing, but at least they made me laugh.) Unfortunately, the only quote I have highlighted is from Bjorn, telling Freya how “not burying [his] co*ck inside [her] almost broke [him].” 😂😭 Do with that what you will. 🤷‍♀️

Please read something else by Danielle L. Jensen instead!

The Malediction Trilogy
#1. Stolen Songbird: 4.5⭐
#2. Hidden Huntress: 3.5⭐
#3. Warrior Witch: 5⭐

The Bridge Kingdom
#1. The Bridge Kingdom: 4⭐
#2. The Traitor Queen: 5⭐

5 Born-in-Fire Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️/5

I’ve had this book approved for a very long time, and I just kind of kept brushing it off. BUT LIKE WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG? I seriously wish that I could go back in time and kick some flipping sense into my past self because

It has been a really long time since I have read anything by Danielle L. Jensen, like November 2022 long, so I basically forgot how much I absolutely love and adore her writing and stories. This is a single-POV that follows Freya, a God-blessed Shield-Maiden in hiding with dreams of being in a Warband. However, she is stuck in a loveless marriage as a fisherman's wife. One day her husband betrays her to her Jarl, who has been spending the last 20 years looking for Freya, believing in a prophecy that says "he who controls her fate shall unite the nation and rule the land". The Jarl forces Freya to do his bidding and orders his son Bjorn to protect and train her. Soon Freya finds herself thrust into the warrior life she has always pined for, but the biggest battle she has to fight is the forbidden attraction between herself and Bjorn.

Freya just doesn’t catch a break. From very early on she is constantly faced with near-death experiences, pain, suffering, and the terrible reality that everyone wants to possess, use her, or kill her. She was a literal rope in a tug-of-war for power, and I am surprised she didn't snap given the weight of the world basically rests on her shoulders. This reinforces how strong her characterization felt as she never gave up, no matter how bad it got. She was tenacious, brave, unselfish and incredibly self-sacrificing to protect her family (even when they treated her like crap).

I also appreciated that Freya felt and acted so mature for her age (and didn't feel like she was only 20 - being in my thirties I like it when I can connect to characters). Her hard life and upbringing in the times of Vikings have shaped and moulded her into a person who can withstand hardships and that made her incredibly admirable. It was interesting to see how the girl with the dream of being in a Warband is faced with the harsh reality that everything she hoped for and dreamt about is skewed and wrong.

I just knew from the very moment that Bjorn was introduced that I was going to love him. He is co*cky, mysterious, quick-witted, charming and a total flirt. But is so loyal and protective of Freya that it was just adorable watching the two of them interact. I loved how numerous perceptions Freya had of him were constantly disproven, and I swooned and giggled at the constant witty banter between the two. The chemistry and tension between them were off the charts and just SO. WELL. WRITTEN!!!!

The writing in this is stunning but gritty and raw! It’s captivating but harsh at the same time and feels like the time of the Vikings. If you love anything Norse Mythology, then you are going to love this! I felt like I was there! I could feel the world, feel how the Gods wove themselves into this story, and I could taste and feel the environment. The way that the world-building pulled on the traditional Mythology but wove in an intricate magic system and lore in this is spectacular; I swear I felt the air tingle as I was taken on the journey with Freya. I also appreciated that I didn't need to know much about the Mythology to grasp an understanding of the story. Sometimes when reading a book based on Mythology, a background in the Mythology is needed before jumping in. But not this time as not once did I feel lost, confused or overwhelmed by the lore.

There are two things I believe could have been done better. The first is the timeline pacing. The timeline from when she is taken from her village to the climax of the book happens VERY QUICKLY (Like mental maths - about 2 weeks max). As mentioned earlier, it felt like Freya never actually catches a break and the moment things seem to be calming down things SPIKE UP. Given this, the relationship development between Bjorn and Freya could be seen VERY Instalovie, and she went from not being an "official" warrior to being a warrior...in only a few days. If, like me, you imagine that it's a few weeks, then the story seems a little more believable (especially given the amount of travelling that happens in this story)

The second is the predictability of the plot twists. I was able to see the major shocks pretty early from the start and predict the outcome of a few things VERY EARLY on. This isn't an issue as the way the story progressed and these were revealed was done well.

All in all, I am not going to let my issues detract from the fact that I adored this! This is an exciting start to the Saga of the Unfated, and I am almost annoyed after THAT ENDING that we have to wait so long now for the next book because I NEED MY HANDS ON IT NOW!

Your Trope Summary:
▶ Norse Mythology/Viking Inspired
▶ Forbidden Romance (Fathers "Wife")
▶ One Horse
▶ Touch Her/Him You Die
▶ Bodyguard/Charge Vibes
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Slow Burn but INSTANT TENSION

So do yourself a favour and read this- don't be stupid like me and wait. DO. NOT. SIT. ON. THIS. BOOK! RUN! Don't walk....SPRINT EVEN and pick it up because it's so so so so so so good!

Thank you Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group for my gifted ARC copy.
All thoughts and opinions are my own

This book was non stop banter and action the ENTIRE TIME THROUGH. I am seriously biting my nails in anticipation for book 2!

hey, when they ask me what book I want to be buried with, can y’all put this with my body? thanks.

—Norse inspired
—romance adult
—you’re mine moment
—magic
—cliffhanger
—slow burn

I flew through this book from start to finish. I never wanted it to end and just the feelings it gave me while reading it were absolutely perfect.

The characters, specifically Freya, were so addictive to read about. Freya is a strong, but caring woman who not only is a badass but acknowledges her mistakes and never quits. I loved her. She reminded me of Lagertha from the show Vikings. Her and our male love interest were so incredible together, their chemistry, friendship, everything was so well done.

And the story of how they are Vikings but some have the magic of the gods in them was pure perfection. I cannot wait for the rest of the story and what’s to come. I need book two and I need it now. Danielle if you’re seeing this, I’ll trade you anything you want for book two lol.

"You're mine, Born-in-Fire," he answered, reaching out to take my hand. "And I'm yours, even if only the two of us know it."

3.75 stars

I had some struggles with this one. The storyline was really interesting and the writing was great, but I was having issues with Freya. I had trouble getting behind her as the FMC. She had a hard start in this story, which I completely empathized with, but as the story continued, she was losing the backbone she clearly showed in the beginning.

She had a pretty intense hatred for Snorri, and then all of a sudden she is semi behind what he's trying to do and supporting him. Obviously, she has his threats against her family to take into consideration, but you can see her mindset changing a little.

And then for her to respond the way she does to the betrayal at the end I won't spoil. Just completely at odds with how she should have been thinking imo. Just once, I would like to see the betrayal trope done where the FMC doesn't turn into a hysterical screecher and keeps somewhat of a level head, but we know as the reader that trust will have to be regained as the story continues.

So those issues aside, I'm still exited for where the story is heading and hopefully Freya will level out a bit as we go.

2.75

another hyped up let down??? i was genuinely ready to give this the benefit of the doubt after really not liking the bridge kingdom either…but this was a MESS

the first thing was the inconsistencies; and there were a buttload. the language spans from old english and mythology terms to straight up tiktok comments (and the use of “narcissist” like be so fr). the characters/characterization of the leads varied from bantery lovers to complete strangers who’s sole connection was ✨lust✨ AS WAS CONTINUOUSLY BROUGHT UP BY THEM. like as long as you’re self aware but how am i supposed to believe y’all are soulmates if we have legit never had even ONE cute lil trauma bonding forced proximity moment :(

i truly thought this would be an interesting introduction to norse mythology but it was simply a lackluster contemporary romance in sheep’s clothing. is it even worth mentioning how predictable it was for a book with a whole bunch of NOTHIN going on?

I NEED THE SEQUEL MORE THAN I NEED MY NEXT BREATH 😩
Rtc.

“ There is no future where i would regret choosing you. I wish I realized it sooner. For nearly all my life, revenge for what was done to my mother was all that mattered to me. It consumed my every waking breath and i refused to allow anything else to matter. Then the most fierce and beautiful woman i’ve ever laid eyes on hit me in the face with a fish ruled by something deeper than hate. I used to dream only of fire and ash, now when i close my eyes, all i see is your face” *internally screaming*

DNF @45% — This peaked in chapter 1 when Freya whacked Bjorn in the face with a fish. It was all downhill after that 🐟

I really really really really wanted to love this one. The first couple chapters had me non-stop giggling and the banter between Freya & Bjorn was 🤌

But I'm coming up on halfway and I can feel my eyes glazing over trying to push through.

The romance: insta-love with no depth x10000000
The plot: a bunch of predictable fight scenes & undeveloped political rivalries. I simply do not care.
The characters: other than Freya & Bjorn there is not a single semi-likeable character anywhere to be found.
The shield maiden thing: she holds up a shield and the enemies just like... bounce off? That’s the extent of her power at this point. Otherwise this girl can't defend herself for sh*t.

Sooooo I skipped ahead and read the last chapter and... yeah, I clocked that plot twist from the very beginning.

I’ve just gotten to this point as a reader where I physically can’t force myself to read things I’m not enjoying knowing there is so much better stuff out there waiting for me. I think this has potential to work for a lot of people, unfortunately I am not one of them and that’s alright. Onto better things!!

Thank you to Ballantine Books at the Random House Group for the opportunity to read this book early! This review reflects my honest thoughts.

Okay so gave myself some time to review this one. Another 5⭐️ read for Danielle. This gave Viking, Norse mythology and romance! All that good stuff hahah.

On a serious note, I loved this one because I feel like the banter and dialogue between Freya and Bjorn was just right. Sometimes authors try too hard with being witty and it gets annoying. But these two were genuinely funny with their light quips and I appreciated that.

Another great thing about this one? Pacing! It was fast paced and you did not have to wait for too long before things ACTUALLY happened. I don’t want to spoil it but problems arose and got dealt with quickly in a good way. There weren’t several long drawn out secrets that left the reader frustrated for no reason. The interest in Freya’s powers was exposed to everyone from the beginning. Which meant that the big secrets revealed at the end were really interesting.

I think it was a good cliffhanger. It wasn’t one that left you broken hahah. It was more a twist that left you wondering how their relationship would play out in the next book.

This was heavily influenced by Norse Mythology so we got several references to the Gods. It wasn’t just skipped over with focus on romance. The balance was just right. Only warning is that it was quite gruesome at times so if you’re not into Viking battles with axes and all that then this may not be for you. ❤️