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The Vinland to Valhalla Saga #1
Heart of a Valkyrie
Born hearing the call of Valkyries.
Dreaming of distant shores.
Torn between the past and the future.
Destined to become a legend.<-b>
Iceland, 976—Freydis Eiriksdottir, born to a völva mother and berserker father, lives a quiet life on her remote farmstead in Iceland. Busy dreaming of the sea and haunted by the loss of her mother, she has no idea what the Norns have in store for her. When her father, Eirik the Red, marries the daughter of a powerful chieftain, the course of Freydis’s life changes forever.
Deciding that Freydis would be better off with the gothar, Eirik sends his only daughter to serve the Norse gods. Freydis learns the ancient ways and discovers that her world is endangered—a rising new religion threatens to reshape everything.
Amidst the uncertainty, a distant land beckons Freydis. However, as Freydis forms a close bond with Brien, an Irish thrall, she confronts the harsh realities of their world.
Readers will relish this sweeping Viking saga that chronicles the life of Freydis Eiriksdottir. Dive into The Vinland to Valhalla Saga, a thrilling Viking historical fantasy series by New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak.
Dreaming of distant shores.
Torn between the past and the future.
Destined to become a legend.<-b>
Iceland, 976—Freydis Eiriksdottir, born to a völva mother and berserker father, lives a quiet life on her remote farmstead in Iceland. Busy dreaming of the sea and haunted by the loss of her mother, she has no idea what the Norns have in store for her. When her father, Eirik the Red, marries the daughter of a powerful chieftain, the course of Freydis’s life changes forever.
Deciding that Freydis would be better off with the gothar, Eirik sends his only daughter to serve the Norse gods. Freydis learns the ancient ways and discovers that her world is endangered—a rising new religion threatens to reshape everything.
Amidst the uncertainty, a distant land beckons Freydis. However, as Freydis forms a close bond with Brien, an Irish thrall, she confronts the harsh realities of their world.
Readers will relish this sweeping Viking saga that chronicles the life of Freydis Eiriksdottir. Dive into The Vinland to Valhalla Saga, a thrilling Viking historical fantasy series by New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2024
372 people are currently reading
881 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Karsak
90 books1,721 followersNew York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
May 26, 2025
Viking banter, Norse gods, and historical details made this a fun enjoyable read. Melanie Karsak is becoming a favorite and reliable series author. This is a straightforward story of Eirik the Red's daughter Freydis, whom he abandoned. There is a nice blend of both history and mythology. The trickster god Loki has been whispering to Freydis and getting involved in betraying other gods. The viking community talks about the growing christian population and their rejection of the Norse gods like Thor. It ends on a cliffhanger and the next book is available in kindle unlimited.
4.5/5 *
4.5/5 *
March 18, 2024
can’t wait for this new series
March 5, 2024
This is probably the tamest Viking book I’ve ever read, but such an intriguing story! She is still coming into herself so I am sure the battles are yet to come!
I was sucked in from the beginning all the way to the very end and now I need to know what’s going to happen!!
I was already crying around chapter 7ish and had tears a couple times throughout! My heart broke for Freydis and her journey of trying to find a place she belonged. The love that began to bloom, the struggle, the overcoming.. it was all SO good!! Don’t miss out!
March 2, 2024
Melanie Karsak is a one click author for me. And when she announced this new book I was so excited. Everything she writes is a 5⭐️ for me, and I knew this new series would be no different.
I was sucked in from page one. Every world she writes is so unique I just get lost in the pages.
Heart of a Valkyrie, takes place in 976 Iceland. We get to follow Freydis Eiriksdottir. start at the beginning with her being 10 years old, and the events that lead up to her being sent to live with the gothar, where she can learn to utilize the gift she was born with. She is able to see and talk to the Valkyrie’s (there was several appearances of certain Valkyries that made my heart so so happy IYKYK)
This historical Viking fantasy holds a strong FMC, fate and the gods, and the weaving sisters. It is absolutely everything you could want in a Viking book. 5 incredible stars
I was sucked in from page one. Every world she writes is so unique I just get lost in the pages.
Heart of a Valkyrie, takes place in 976 Iceland. We get to follow Freydis Eiriksdottir. start at the beginning with her being 10 years old, and the events that lead up to her being sent to live with the gothar, where she can learn to utilize the gift she was born with. She is able to see and talk to the Valkyrie’s (there was several appearances of certain Valkyries that made my heart so so happy IYKYK)
This historical Viking fantasy holds a strong FMC, fate and the gods, and the weaving sisters. It is absolutely everything you could want in a Viking book. 5 incredible stars
March 5, 2024
Freydis Eiriksdottir was a female Viking explorer and warrior. She was the daughter of Erik the Red and was the sister of Leif Erikson. Heart of a Valkyrie focuses on Freydis’s early years. When Erik the Red remarries, Freydis is given to the Norse priesthood. Freydis has dreams of sailing to a distant land. Will Freydis be able to fulfill her longing to leave Iceland and sail to a new one?
I had heard of Freydis Eiriksdottir due to the hit tv show, Vikings. She was one of my favorite characters. When Mrs. Karsak released a novel about her, I quickly put on my Viking hat and devoured it in one sitting. Because it shows her early years, it has not yet shown Freydis as the strong Viking warrior. Instead, she is an uncertain girl. She has to adjust to leaving her father and adapt to a new life. Freydis eventually grows into a devout and confident priestess. The only downside is that she has some anger issues and is rash at times. Nevertheless, Freydis was a very compelling and engaging character.
Overall, this novel was a fascinating coming-of-age story about a legendary Viking. I loved all the characters. They were very complex and realistic. I also like how the author wove supernatural elements into Freydis’s story! There were some flaws in this book. I thought that the novel was a bit repetitive at times. I also thought the love story could have been fleshed out more. I also had a hard time pronouncing many words and would have liked a pronunciation guide included. Nevertheless, The Heart of a Valkyrie is a mesmerizing novel steeped with magic and mysticism! It is a very fast-paced novel that will enthrall from the moment you read the first page! If you are a fan of the Vikings, you must not miss this book! I can’t wait for more Freydis! I hope the sequel comes out real quickly! I recommend this for fans of Avelynn, A Thousand Years, and Ascent!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)
I had heard of Freydis Eiriksdottir due to the hit tv show, Vikings. She was one of my favorite characters. When Mrs. Karsak released a novel about her, I quickly put on my Viking hat and devoured it in one sitting. Because it shows her early years, it has not yet shown Freydis as the strong Viking warrior. Instead, she is an uncertain girl. She has to adjust to leaving her father and adapt to a new life. Freydis eventually grows into a devout and confident priestess. The only downside is that she has some anger issues and is rash at times. Nevertheless, Freydis was a very compelling and engaging character.
Overall, this novel was a fascinating coming-of-age story about a legendary Viking. I loved all the characters. They were very complex and realistic. I also like how the author wove supernatural elements into Freydis’s story! There were some flaws in this book. I thought that the novel was a bit repetitive at times. I also thought the love story could have been fleshed out more. I also had a hard time pronouncing many words and would have liked a pronunciation guide included. Nevertheless, The Heart of a Valkyrie is a mesmerizing novel steeped with magic and mysticism! It is a very fast-paced novel that will enthrall from the moment you read the first page! If you are a fan of the Vikings, you must not miss this book! I can’t wait for more Freydis! I hope the sequel comes out real quickly! I recommend this for fans of Avelynn, A Thousand Years, and Ascent!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of the author. All opinions expressed are my own.)
March 7, 2024
Cliffhanger ending.
TW: Violence, SA, ritual sacrifice of domesticated animals.
TW: Violence, SA, ritual sacrifice of domesticated animals.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2024
Freydis has always heard the Valkyries. When her father Eirik the Red decides to marry, he sends her to live with the gothar to serve the Norse gods. But her father has made many enemies through the years presenting Freydis with further challenges. Finding friendship with Brien, a thrall from the farm next to her, she finds the courage to faces these challenges head on. But only the gods can decide her fate.
This book was everything I could have wanted for a Nordic fantasy novel! I absolutely love how strong Freydis is even when she is faced with challenges no child should ever face. Her friendship with Brien was so pure and I still can’t get over the ending. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Freydis!
This book was everything I could have wanted for a Nordic fantasy novel! I absolutely love how strong Freydis is even when she is faced with challenges no child should ever face. Her friendship with Brien was so pure and I still can’t get over the ending. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Freydis!
March 10, 2025
This is an incredibly richly woven Viking saga that completely made up for a recent disappointing Norse story. The beginning immediately drew me in with its complex characters and challenging relationships, establishing a deeply engaging atmosphere that felt both authentic and brimming with promise. Freydis and the vibrant supporting cast create a world that is as intricate as it is captivating. These feel like real people and it's easy to get attached.
That said, around the 60% mark, the narrative makes a jarring six-year time jump that momentarily pulled me out of the immersive experience I had built up. I found myself scrambling to reorient myself, and it was nearly infuriating given how invested I was in the story. However, despite this disruptive shift, the second half of the book proved even more compelling than the first, with the plot intensifying and the characters evolving in ways that felt entirely necessary for the story’s arc.
In the end, Heart of a Valkyrie is a powerful tale of destiny and resilience that masterfully blends myth, history, intrigue, and deeply human relationships. While the abrupt time jump was a rough patch, it ultimately served to heighten the stakes and enrich the narrative, leaving me eager to see where Freydis’s journey will take her next. Highly recommended for anyone craving a thoughtfully crafted Viking epic with both heart and grit. I seriously loved the crap out of this book and I cannot wait to read the next.
Thanks to the author for the complimentary copy for a book tour way back! This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
That said, around the 60% mark, the narrative makes a jarring six-year time jump that momentarily pulled me out of the immersive experience I had built up. I found myself scrambling to reorient myself, and it was nearly infuriating given how invested I was in the story. However, despite this disruptive shift, the second half of the book proved even more compelling than the first, with the plot intensifying and the characters evolving in ways that felt entirely necessary for the story’s arc.
In the end, Heart of a Valkyrie is a powerful tale of destiny and resilience that masterfully blends myth, history, intrigue, and deeply human relationships. While the abrupt time jump was a rough patch, it ultimately served to heighten the stakes and enrich the narrative, leaving me eager to see where Freydis’s journey will take her next. Highly recommended for anyone craving a thoughtfully crafted Viking epic with both heart and grit. I seriously loved the crap out of this book and I cannot wait to read the next.
Thanks to the author for the complimentary copy for a book tour way back! This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
March 2, 2024
✨Heart of Valkyrie✨
Well, I could barely sleep last night after finishing this. Definitely left me wanting for the sequel!
HOV is what I would classify as low fantasy, historical fiction with a touch of romance. The low fantasy being mostly related to gods and spirits and the magic they hold. The historical being that this book is FULL of mythology, knowledge of the culture in Iceland, Viking language and historical characters.
It is written in 1st person POV, following Freydis Eiriksdottir, the daughter of Eirik the Red and sister to Leif Eiriksson, who is sold to the priestesses so her father can continue his conquest of Iceland. Freydis has the unique ability to hear the gods and, while being trained, spends her efforts on proving she is not her father’s daughter and working to earn her lover’s freedom. But the gods, especially Loki, are at work to hinder her dreams, to encourage war, to cause discord between the religions…
This was a wonderful comfort read with so much depth about Vikings and mythology in its pages. Freydis is a compassionate and empathetic young woman with a spit-fire temper who I am excited to see come into her feminine rage. Brien, a thrall and who we didn’t get to see as much of as I’d have liked, was the epitome of adorable and easy to fall in love with. Watching their budding forbidden romance was so precious and, even though he wasn’t as involved as I’d have liked, the moments we had with him were extremely memorable and purposeful. I think that ability speaks leagues to a keen writing ability from Melanie and I have high hopes for him in the coming book.
Heart of Valkyrie is a fantastic, currently low stakes viking tale of coming of age, found family, and forbidden romance. No spice or language. There is an attempted rape- please check trigger warnings. A strong FMC; lovable Irish male; fierce, protective and independent women. And a cliffhanger to keep you pining for the next installment. If you like historical romance with a dash of fantasy, this is for you!
Well, I could barely sleep last night after finishing this. Definitely left me wanting for the sequel!
HOV is what I would classify as low fantasy, historical fiction with a touch of romance. The low fantasy being mostly related to gods and spirits and the magic they hold. The historical being that this book is FULL of mythology, knowledge of the culture in Iceland, Viking language and historical characters.
It is written in 1st person POV, following Freydis Eiriksdottir, the daughter of Eirik the Red and sister to Leif Eiriksson, who is sold to the priestesses so her father can continue his conquest of Iceland. Freydis has the unique ability to hear the gods and, while being trained, spends her efforts on proving she is not her father’s daughter and working to earn her lover’s freedom. But the gods, especially Loki, are at work to hinder her dreams, to encourage war, to cause discord between the religions…
This was a wonderful comfort read with so much depth about Vikings and mythology in its pages. Freydis is a compassionate and empathetic young woman with a spit-fire temper who I am excited to see come into her feminine rage. Brien, a thrall and who we didn’t get to see as much of as I’d have liked, was the epitome of adorable and easy to fall in love with. Watching their budding forbidden romance was so precious and, even though he wasn’t as involved as I’d have liked, the moments we had with him were extremely memorable and purposeful. I think that ability speaks leagues to a keen writing ability from Melanie and I have high hopes for him in the coming book.
Heart of Valkyrie is a fantastic, currently low stakes viking tale of coming of age, found family, and forbidden romance. No spice or language. There is an attempted rape- please check trigger warnings. A strong FMC; lovable Irish male; fierce, protective and independent women. And a cliffhanger to keep you pining for the next installment. If you like historical romance with a dash of fantasy, this is for you!
March 1, 2024
When I read the summary for Heart of a Valkyrie I couldn’t wait to start reading it. I didn’t know what to expect when I started reading Heart of a Valkyrie but what I found between its pages was not it. What I did find was way better than anything I was expecting.
I enjoyed reading Freydis Finnbogadottir's story. The descriptions were so vividly written it felt as if I was there with Freydis when she was taken from her home and sent away to live with the gothar. The day her home was taken from Freydis her life was changed forever.
Freydis was not happy that her father was going to marry the daughter of a powerful chieftain but she never thought he would send her away. But boy how wrong she was.
She thought her father loved her more than anything in the world. After all, he did raise her all by himself after her mother died. Everyone kept telling him to send her away to let her be raised by others but he would not hear of it.
I felt so bad for Freydis I couldn’t believe her father could do that to her. When he sent her away it broke my heart. I could only imagine how Freydis must have felt being sent away to a place where she knew no one or knew anything about the place.
I couldn’t believe her father sold the person who she loved very much the person who raised her after the death of her mother. This woman was like a mother to her. The closest thing she has ever had to a mother.
Heart of a Valkyrie is a great start to a brand-new series. I can’t wait to read more in The Vinland to Valhalla Saga. I can’t wait to see what the next book Sword of a Valkyrie has waiting for us as this historical saga continues. I can’t wait to read more about the Norse gods, and what comes next for Freydis and her father, Eirik the Red.
I highly suggest that you grab a copy of Heart of a Valkyrie today and join Freydis on her adventures with the Norse gods!
I enjoyed reading Freydis Finnbogadottir's story. The descriptions were so vividly written it felt as if I was there with Freydis when she was taken from her home and sent away to live with the gothar. The day her home was taken from Freydis her life was changed forever.
Freydis was not happy that her father was going to marry the daughter of a powerful chieftain but she never thought he would send her away. But boy how wrong she was.
She thought her father loved her more than anything in the world. After all, he did raise her all by himself after her mother died. Everyone kept telling him to send her away to let her be raised by others but he would not hear of it.
I felt so bad for Freydis I couldn’t believe her father could do that to her. When he sent her away it broke my heart. I could only imagine how Freydis must have felt being sent away to a place where she knew no one or knew anything about the place.
I couldn’t believe her father sold the person who she loved very much the person who raised her after the death of her mother. This woman was like a mother to her. The closest thing she has ever had to a mother.
Heart of a Valkyrie is a great start to a brand-new series. I can’t wait to read more in The Vinland to Valhalla Saga. I can’t wait to see what the next book Sword of a Valkyrie has waiting for us as this historical saga continues. I can’t wait to read more about the Norse gods, and what comes next for Freydis and her father, Eirik the Red.
I highly suggest that you grab a copy of Heart of a Valkyrie today and join Freydis on her adventures with the Norse gods!
March 11, 2024
This was the most stimulating book that I have EVER read.
I’m not even sure that I was reading as much as I was watching it all play out before my eyes.
Melanie made it effortless to see/hear/smell and FEEL the events of this book.
This will be one of the best books that I will have ever had the pleasure of reading. I will wish for many years to come that I could read this book for the first time again. Melanie has enchanted me. By the Creator, I cannot find enough words to describe this feeling.
She has evoked all of my emotions with Freydis’ story. There is no point at which I can discern where she ensnared me with this story. It’s like the land, the people, the journey all seeped into me slowly without alerting my consciousness.
It was such a beautiful story and I am feigning for more of it. The ending equally destroyed me and filled my heart. I hate cliffhangers, but damn if she didn’t just rewrite all my opinions in a single book.
So, please excuse me while I now read her entire collection of work from start to finish. Completely disregarding all the books I had lined up and my TBR, because I cannot be sleeping on Melanie Karsak. She is a goddess in her own right, and I need to consume her books like I am drowning and they are my last breath.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
But more like infinite stars out of five because I cannot fathom a life where I have not had the joy of reading Freydis’ journey.
I’m not even sure that I was reading as much as I was watching it all play out before my eyes.
Melanie made it effortless to see/hear/smell and FEEL the events of this book.
This will be one of the best books that I will have ever had the pleasure of reading. I will wish for many years to come that I could read this book for the first time again. Melanie has enchanted me. By the Creator, I cannot find enough words to describe this feeling.
She has evoked all of my emotions with Freydis’ story. There is no point at which I can discern where she ensnared me with this story. It’s like the land, the people, the journey all seeped into me slowly without alerting my consciousness.
It was such a beautiful story and I am feigning for more of it. The ending equally destroyed me and filled my heart. I hate cliffhangers, but damn if she didn’t just rewrite all my opinions in a single book.
So, please excuse me while I now read her entire collection of work from start to finish. Completely disregarding all the books I had lined up and my TBR, because I cannot be sleeping on Melanie Karsak. She is a goddess in her own right, and I need to consume her books like I am drowning and they are my last breath.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
But more like infinite stars out of five because I cannot fathom a life where I have not had the joy of reading Freydis’ journey.
March 7, 2024
Heart Of A Valkyrie
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First I’d like to say what a beautifully written book this was! I am a HUGE fan of Norse Mythology! So this was SUCH a treat!!! 🛡️⚔️
Iceland 976—-Our beautiful FMC Freydis Eiriksdottir at 10 years old enduring so much, BOY is she brave. In the midst of her greedy father Eirik Thorvaldsson sending her away, she endured enough pain to LAST a LIFETIME!
I certainly had lots of tears while reading 😩😭!!!!
While believing no body wanted her, or belonging anywhere our STRONG Freydis believed in herself and trusted the Gods, & friends along the way. Through this, she persevered as Gythia. ⚔️🛡️✨
Time JUMP six years later — Still enduring horrible things set in motion from her younger life, and the choices she’s made along the way. Freydis was tested and even when she thought all hope was lost, she was still aided by her friends and fellow Gothar.⚔️🛡️✨
The way this book ended had me in an absolute choke hold! ESPECIALLY THE ENDING!!! I really wanted to EXPLODE and say more but… Yall just need to read this amazing story!!!! This historical viking fantasy will have you at the EDGE OF YOUR SEAT!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First I’d like to say what a beautifully written book this was! I am a HUGE fan of Norse Mythology! So this was SUCH a treat!!! 🛡️⚔️
Iceland 976—-Our beautiful FMC Freydis Eiriksdottir at 10 years old enduring so much, BOY is she brave. In the midst of her greedy father Eirik Thorvaldsson sending her away, she endured enough pain to LAST a LIFETIME!
I certainly had lots of tears while reading 😩😭!!!!
While believing no body wanted her, or belonging anywhere our STRONG Freydis believed in herself and trusted the Gods, & friends along the way. Through this, she persevered as Gythia. ⚔️🛡️✨
Time JUMP six years later — Still enduring horrible things set in motion from her younger life, and the choices she’s made along the way. Freydis was tested and even when she thought all hope was lost, she was still aided by her friends and fellow Gothar.⚔️🛡️✨
The way this book ended had me in an absolute choke hold! ESPECIALLY THE ENDING!!! I really wanted to EXPLODE and say more but… Yall just need to read this amazing story!!!! This historical viking fantasy will have you at the EDGE OF YOUR SEAT!!
March 15, 2024
***book review***
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first Melanie Karsak book but definitely won't be my last!
I hadn't read any viking/Norse books in a loooong time and forgot how much I loved them! That combined with an amazing plot, great characters, and wonderful writing was just a recipe for a good book!
So thank you Melanie for letting me ARC read this book for you!
Things I loved:
-getting to learn about new things! I'd never heard of the Icelandic Gythia before and it was very interesting to read about! I also appreciated the fact that even though the Gythia and the Christian priests clashed, the book never seemed outright disrespectful towards Christians as sometimes happens. I'm not sure what religion the author is but I applaud that she didn't let her beliefs (either way) cloud the story.
As a Christian myself, I appreciated learning about their beliefs in the book without feeling like mine were being looked down upon. That's something that could have changed my opinion of this book entirely.
-the characters. I loved getting to read about all the different characters and their different interests. They were all very unique characters and well-written.
-the romance and stakes. I love forbidden romance and this was such a sweet one. It was not the focal point of the story, instead a subplot for most of the book, but it was still amazing! And the pressure that was put on different aspects of their relationship throughout the book was very enticing to read.
Things I didn't like:
-the ending. Cliffhanger much? How am I supposed to wait until November for the second book??
And that's about it. Honestly other than small complaints, there wasn't much about this book that I didn't like.
I would definitely recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first Melanie Karsak book but definitely won't be my last!
I hadn't read any viking/Norse books in a loooong time and forgot how much I loved them! That combined with an amazing plot, great characters, and wonderful writing was just a recipe for a good book!
So thank you Melanie for letting me ARC read this book for you!
Things I loved:
-getting to learn about new things! I'd never heard of the Icelandic Gythia before and it was very interesting to read about! I also appreciated the fact that even though the Gythia and the Christian priests clashed, the book never seemed outright disrespectful towards Christians as sometimes happens. I'm not sure what religion the author is but I applaud that she didn't let her beliefs (either way) cloud the story.
As a Christian myself, I appreciated learning about their beliefs in the book without feeling like mine were being looked down upon. That's something that could have changed my opinion of this book entirely.
-the characters. I loved getting to read about all the different characters and their different interests. They were all very unique characters and well-written.
-the romance and stakes. I love forbidden romance and this was such a sweet one. It was not the focal point of the story, instead a subplot for most of the book, but it was still amazing! And the pressure that was put on different aspects of their relationship throughout the book was very enticing to read.
Things I didn't like:
-the ending. Cliffhanger much? How am I supposed to wait until November for the second book??
And that's about it. Honestly other than small complaints, there wasn't much about this book that I didn't like.
I would definitely recommend it!
August 21, 2025
This was a very mild viking inspired book and if youre craving a bit of a pallate cleanser with a side of historical fiction, this is it.
What is nice is having such a pretty support group for the MC, however there is not much distinction between the gythia and they sort of bleed together in their reactions and interactions with Freydis. Of course with the exception of Unnur and Gudrun.
The debate surrounding religions, specially between Christiany vs paganism is there, but does not play such a crucial role in the story yet. I suspect in the rest of the saga it gets more developed.
Overall, an easy read but did not connect enough with me to continue with the series. Would've liked for Freydis to act more her age, and the way the plagues were handled broke a bit of that historical accuracy for me.
What is nice is having such a pretty support group for the MC, however there is not much distinction between the gythia and they sort of bleed together in their reactions and interactions with Freydis. Of course with the exception of Unnur and Gudrun.
The debate surrounding religions, specially between Christiany vs paganism is there, but does not play such a crucial role in the story yet. I suspect in the rest of the saga it gets more developed.
Overall, an easy read but did not connect enough with me to continue with the series. Would've liked for Freydis to act more her age, and the way the plagues were handled broke a bit of that historical accuracy for me.
March 4, 2024
A coming of age low fantasy (but heavy in the mythology and lore) historical fiction with a dash of beautiful romance. There are a few TWs including sexual assault, and violence, so please check those if you are sensitive. This was a great palate cleanser, comfort read, after many dark and heavy high fantasy reads. Reads more YA style due to the age of the protagonist, but that's not a bad thing.
As a lover of both Norse and Celtic mythology, and how Melanie has written these stories before, I love how she has found a way to weave both together into this story with Freydis and Brien (and Brigid)
This first novel follows the young life (ages 10-16) of Freydis as she leaves her quiet home life to become a Gythia. Along her way she find her heart stolen by an Irish slave. Freydis has big plans for her life but discovers that as the Norns weave, so does the trickster god play. All set in the time of the early spread of Christianity across the Norse world.
As usual, Melanie delivers a well researched and well written story full of intriguing and complex characters and the perfect touch of magic. I also loved the little Easter eggs to her previous works, seeing those names made my heart happy. I look forward to the next book!
As a lover of both Norse and Celtic mythology, and how Melanie has written these stories before, I love how she has found a way to weave both together into this story with Freydis and Brien (and Brigid)
This first novel follows the young life (ages 10-16) of Freydis as she leaves her quiet home life to become a Gythia. Along her way she find her heart stolen by an Irish slave. Freydis has big plans for her life but discovers that as the Norns weave, so does the trickster god play. All set in the time of the early spread of Christianity across the Norse world.
As usual, Melanie delivers a well researched and well written story full of intriguing and complex characters and the perfect touch of magic. I also loved the little Easter eggs to her previous works, seeing those names made my heart happy. I look forward to the next book!
March 8, 2024
I was gifted an ARC for an honest review.
"Because you have chosen, in my name, to save those you love, you doom the gods. For this, you shall pay a price, Freydis Eiriksdottir."
Heart of the Valkyrie starts in 976 Iceland with young Freydis Eiriksdottir, daughter of Eirik The Red. She has a gift of being able to see and hear the Valkyries. When her father remarries, she is sent to study with the priestesses to learn and hone her craft.
This is a fast-paced and beautifully told story of a young girl growing into a woman and learning how to navigate a new to her world. I could not put it down. I cannot wait to read the sequel, and I will be buying a physical copy to have as a trophy on my shelf. I recommend this for anyone who loves strong leading women. It's a 5 ⭐️ for me!
"Because you have chosen, in my name, to save those you love, you doom the gods. For this, you shall pay a price, Freydis Eiriksdottir."
Heart of the Valkyrie starts in 976 Iceland with young Freydis Eiriksdottir, daughter of Eirik The Red. She has a gift of being able to see and hear the Valkyries. When her father remarries, she is sent to study with the priestesses to learn and hone her craft.
This is a fast-paced and beautifully told story of a young girl growing into a woman and learning how to navigate a new to her world. I could not put it down. I cannot wait to read the sequel, and I will be buying a physical copy to have as a trophy on my shelf. I recommend this for anyone who loves strong leading women. It's a 5 ⭐️ for me!
March 18, 2024
I knew as soon as I saw this book I NEEDED it because I would absolutely LOVE it. I’ve never felt as much emotions reading a book as i did with this.
The book was so unique in so many ways. Every character that Freydis is surrounded by is truly lovable in their own ways. You can feel the love she has for her father and her found family alike.
This book does include topics of SA but I personally felt as though it wasn’t in poor taste (like over use or too many details to the point of it being overwhelming)
As soon as I hit 50% I could not put it down. The lack of predictability had me angry crying in the end. It was well researched and very insightful into their culture. I cannot wait for book 2 release.
The book was so unique in so many ways. Every character that Freydis is surrounded by is truly lovable in their own ways. You can feel the love she has for her father and her found family alike.
This book does include topics of SA but I personally felt as though it wasn’t in poor taste (like over use or too many details to the point of it being overwhelming)
As soon as I hit 50% I could not put it down. The lack of predictability had me angry crying in the end. It was well researched and very insightful into their culture. I cannot wait for book 2 release.
March 8, 2024
I received this as an ARC. I really, really liked this take on the life of Freydis. Most of what I have read on her, fiction and non-fiction, portray her coldly and a, potentially, horrible woman. I can rarely relate to her in any way though I have always been suspicious the portrayal is because she was such a strong woman that the historians couldn't even find a way to deny it. This saga has already started on the right foot by portraying her as a relatable, normal human being with loves, heartbreaks, strengths, flaws, and all the mess that makes us human.
I couldn't put it down once I started and cannot wait for the next installment to this amazing tale!
I couldn't put it down once I started and cannot wait for the next installment to this amazing tale!
March 5, 2024
Another fantastic historical fiction from Melanie Karsak. There are a few authors that I will read anything they publish, and Melanie is one of them. I was a huge fan of her Celtic Blood series and the Celtic Rebel series, and now, I'm fully invested in her viking stories.
I've visited Iceland before, including some of the locations she mentions in the book, and I loved the way she brought the landscape to life in this story. Its wildness and the folklore that is an intrinsic part of the land. And Freydis. What a total badass of a woman. She is such a compelling character, and I loved seeing her grow throughout the story. By the time I got halfway through, I couldn't put the book down. Definitely recommend - I can't wait for the next one!
I've visited Iceland before, including some of the locations she mentions in the book, and I loved the way she brought the landscape to life in this story. Its wildness and the folklore that is an intrinsic part of the land. And Freydis. What a total badass of a woman. She is such a compelling character, and I loved seeing her grow throughout the story. By the time I got halfway through, I couldn't put the book down. Definitely recommend - I can't wait for the next one!
March 9, 2024
Thank you Melanie Karsak for an arc in exchange for my honest opinion!
Melanie Karsak is the reason I love reading Viking related fiction! The Shield-Maiden series was so hard to put down! Heart of a Valkyrie is another must read by her.
It's a story about abandonment, finding yourself and becoming more than you ever thought you could. There is love and loss of love. I could go on! It's a must read. Looking forward to book 2!
Melanie Karsak is the reason I love reading Viking related fiction! The Shield-Maiden series was so hard to put down! Heart of a Valkyrie is another must read by her.
It's a story about abandonment, finding yourself and becoming more than you ever thought you could. There is love and loss of love. I could go on! It's a must read. Looking forward to book 2!
March 10, 2024
This is such a great story. Melanie does a wonderful job of world building and character development. Freydis is an easy character to love, she's got a temper but lots of heart to create a well balanced person. If you've read other books by this author, you're going to love this one. A couple of my favorite characters from another of her series make a special appearance.
June 7, 2024
another brilliant series
Set in Iceland towards the end if the Viking period and the onslaught of Christian conversion, this follows Freydis Eiriksdottir, daughter of the infamous Eirik the Red. Excellent tribute to the strength of the old gods and the dedication of the ancestors to protect those they love. Highly recommend. 5 stars.
Set in Iceland towards the end if the Viking period and the onslaught of Christian conversion, this follows Freydis Eiriksdottir, daughter of the infamous Eirik the Red. Excellent tribute to the strength of the old gods and the dedication of the ancestors to protect those they love. Highly recommend. 5 stars.
March 8, 2024
Very much liked this book by an amazing author.Freydis story starting from her early years into adulthood gives us an understanding of how she became the Freydis of legend.
Well written and engaging from first page to the last. Looking forward to the next chapter!!
Well written and engaging from first page to the last. Looking forward to the next chapter!!
March 8, 2024
worth the wait
What a great book! You are drawn to Freydis and feel what she feels! All the characters are well done - can’t say enough. I have read all the books by the Author Melanie Karsak -I love her writing. This book is exceptional.
What a great book! You are drawn to Freydis and feel what she feels! All the characters are well done - can’t say enough. I have read all the books by the Author Melanie Karsak -I love her writing. This book is exceptional.
March 14, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! I am such a sucker for Viking and Norse mythology/history and this book checked off all the boxes.
I really loved how the story started out with Freydis, our FMC, as a child. Her childhood heartbreak and trauma really sets the stage for the rest of the book, and helps us understand Freydis and where she is coming from. I was in tears the first half of the book and my heart ached for her.
As Freydis gets older and we see her relationships grow and change, we are introduced to more bits and pieces of Brien and their romance. While we don't get a ton of romance all the time, we can definitely see how much Freydis feels for him, and what length she is willing to go to for them to be together. I am so excited to see what becomes of them in book 2!
I just absolutely loved the entire vibe and feelings I got while reading this book. I can't wait to see where the story takes us when book 2 is released! Thank you to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I really loved how the story started out with Freydis, our FMC, as a child. Her childhood heartbreak and trauma really sets the stage for the rest of the book, and helps us understand Freydis and where she is coming from. I was in tears the first half of the book and my heart ached for her.
As Freydis gets older and we see her relationships grow and change, we are introduced to more bits and pieces of Brien and their romance. While we don't get a ton of romance all the time, we can definitely see how much Freydis feels for him, and what length she is willing to go to for them to be together. I am so excited to see what becomes of them in book 2!
I just absolutely loved the entire vibe and feelings I got while reading this book. I can't wait to see where the story takes us when book 2 is released! Thank you to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
September 2, 2024
This was very engaging. I went into this blind and I’m super excited for the sequel to come out.
January 3, 2026
loved it
March 5, 2024
Heart rentching
Another heart pounding story by Melanie Karsak. It follows the story of a young girl named Freydis. She is born into a life of sorrow and loss, but is destined for greatness. If you enjoy stories of the Norse gods and how they weave their will , you are certain to love this book. November cannot come fast enough.
Another heart pounding story by Melanie Karsak. It follows the story of a young girl named Freydis. She is born into a life of sorrow and loss, but is destined for greatness. If you enjoy stories of the Norse gods and how they weave their will , you are certain to love this book. November cannot come fast enough.
March 6, 2024
Wonderful story. Pre-ordered Book 2
Just received this book today and enjoyed it so much I pre-ordered book 2 of the series. The characters and stories are interesting, but I may have to buy an audible version to get a handle on how to say the names.. Tough remembering who is who when the names are so similar.
Just received this book today and enjoyed it so much I pre-ordered book 2 of the series. The characters and stories are interesting, but I may have to buy an audible version to get a handle on how to say the names.. Tough remembering who is who when the names are so similar.
March 17, 2024
Excellent story!
Very well written and pulls you in right from the start. Melanie Karsak is a talented author and has weaved the start of whatever it is going to be a great saga.
Very well written and pulls you in right from the start. Melanie Karsak is a talented author and has weaved the start of whatever it is going to be a great saga.
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