My dear bookish friends,
Are you looking for an action-filled story that effortlessly blends fantasy, mythology, and historical fiction? Then I have the perfect book for you! Please read on to find out what Northern Wrath by Thilde Kold Holdt is about, and for my review!
Big thank you as usual to TheWriteReads, the author, and Solaris for my ecopy of the book and my spot on this blogtour (none of which affected my rating in any way).
The Blurb
Following in the steps of Neil Gaiman & Joanne Harris, the author expertly weaves Norse myths and compelling characters into this fierce, magical epic fantasy.
The bond between men and the gods is weakening.
A dead man walks between the worlds and foresees Odin’s doom.
The only survivor of a slaughter unleashes a monster from fiery Muspelheim.
Long hidden among mortals, a giantess sighs and takes up her magics once again.
A chief’s son must overcome war and treason to become the leader his people need.
And the final battle is coming…
My Review
I have read a couple books that are a mixture of mythology, historical fiction, and fantasy this year. Northern Wrath is up there with the very best, in my opinion.
The first page had already captured me. I was with Einer in that bleak and icy world, saw the freshly fallen snow turn red from all the blood, worried with him that the gigantic bear would use its paws for something other than retreating, felt sad about his dead horse, worried that Einer’s wounds would be too deep to carry on.
The author managed to make this world come to life, full of depth and many layers that enriched the world. I immediately knew I needed to read the whole trilogy (and couldn’t believe this is a debut!). There are so many other POVs that are part of this incredible story, but talking about all of them would go beyond what I can capture in one review, so I will let you discover the rest on your own.
Sometimes big books like this can feel intimidating, especially fantasy novels with many layers and even more character POVs. However, Northern Wrath needed every single line, every single page – none of it felt superfluous or unnecessary, everything added to the story and shaped it into what it is. I often struggle with books that feature several POVs, but this one felt different. Each storyline had its very own arch and felt so deep on its own that it led to no confusion.
What’s more, there aren’t only several POVs, we also get a story rich in different themes. From themes of Norse mythology to family, friendship, romance, but also, of course, death and loss and revenge. Are you a reader going for character-driven books? Northern Wrath has got you covered, but it also has a strong plot that shouldn’t be dismissed!
Story-wise I cannot think of any negative to point out (other than it being quite violent and bloody at times, but I mean, what else did I expect?? Lol.) Language-wise I sometimes felt like there were a few words that seemed like the author’s favourite that have been repeated a number of times, but it didn’t feel too distracting. I also stumbled upon a few typos, but again, nothing too excessive. The fully fleshed out characters you grow close to and feet with as well as their interesting storylines definitely make up for all that.
The writing itself is beautiful and felt authentic, like you’d expect an original Norse myth to be. The descriptions made for a realistic yet beautifully folkloristic feeling, and the action scenes added the rich layer of depth that we all know from the so often adapted stories revolving around Odin, Thor and co. A dead man walking between worlds, giants, monsters, battles, magic, Norse gods, and so much more, this book really has it all!
If you’re a fan of fantasy novels mixed with mythological elements, this is the book for you! Northern Wrath is the first book in the Hanged Gods trilogy, and I cannot wait to pick up the next one!
4.5 stars from me ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Did you read Northern Wrath yet, or are you planning to? Do let me know, and let’s discuss!
Thank you all so much for reading!
xoxo
P.S. I absolutely loved working on this tour banner for TheWriteReads Tours! I think all three covers are beautiful and capture the eye, and i was immediately inspired when I saw them! Do you like it? If you’d like your very own book banner, website graphic, Twitter header or logo, why not have a look at this brand new section on my blog where I offer graphics?
