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80AD #2
The Hammer of Thor
Book 2 of the 80AD series sees Jade, Phoenix and their companions flung into the frozen wastes of northern Europe. Here they must somehow reach Asgard, home of the Norse Gods, in order to steal the Hammer of Thor. They are far from civilisation, snowbound, hunted, lost and on a deadline. If they don't reach Asgard in time, bad things will happen: Ragnarok - the end of the world. Unending winter, followed by hellfire and an almighty battle between the gods and giants.
If this world is destroyed, Phoenix and Jade die with it and their bodies, back in their own world, die as well.
Standing in their way are trolls, wolves, their old enemy Feng Zhudai and a new one - Loki, god of mischief and chaos.
To save this world and themselves, they must get to Asgard in time. Of course, it would help if they knew where it was. Then, somehow, when they do find it, they have to steal Thor's Hammer - and everyone knows that stealing things from Gods is a bad idea.
If this world is destroyed, Phoenix and Jade die with it and their bodies, back in their own world, die as well.
Standing in their way are trolls, wolves, their old enemy Feng Zhudai and a new one - Loki, god of mischief and chaos.
To save this world and themselves, they must get to Asgard in time. Of course, it would help if they knew where it was. Then, somehow, when they do find it, they have to steal Thor's Hammer - and everyone knows that stealing things from Gods is a bad idea.
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First published August 8, 2011
41 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
About the author
Aiki Flinthart
25 books69 followersAiki lives in Brisbane, Australia, with her husband, (Ernest), teenage son (Leonidis - not their real names, obviously), aging dog and directionally-challenged fish.
In between being a wife, running a business full-time and helping Leonidis with homework, she squeezes in a few hobbies, including:
Martial arts, painting, writing, reading, bellydancing and playing three or four musical instruments. Occasionally she even sleeps. Very occasionally.
In between being a wife, running a business full-time and helping Leonidis with homework, she squeezes in a few hobbies, including:
Martial arts, painting, writing, reading, bellydancing and playing three or four musical instruments. Occasionally she even sleeps. Very occasionally.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 25, 2014
Phoenix, Jade, Brynn and Marcus are back in this all new adventure in the 80AD series called Hammer of Thor. When they try to return Truda back to Asgard to her father Thor, wolves, trolls, and Vikings get in their way. Can they succeed in their mission to take Truda home and get the Hammer of Thor before Ragnarok comes? Read on and find out.
I enjoyed this second book of the 80AD series and can't wait to see what happens next. It's action-packed, and for lovers of action adventure, fantasy and young adult stories with history in it. Definitely check this series out. It's free to get on Smashwords.
I enjoyed this second book of the 80AD series and can't wait to see what happens next. It's action-packed, and for lovers of action adventure, fantasy and young adult stories with history in it. Definitely check this series out. It's free to get on Smashwords.
October 9, 2015
Phoenix n Jade along with their friends have travelled thru the portal from London into the Scandinavian lands. They must return the "Jewel of Asgard" as their second quest n retrieve Thor's hammer to proceed to the next level. What I don't understand is Jade n Phoenix's reluctance to believe that they r not just playing a game but actually living in ancient times. Even though their avatars r 17 year old adults they still have the minds n attitudes of teenagers. When the going gets tough each expects the other to have the perfect solution. If they don't agree they sulk, yell or hurl insults. Typical teenage behavior.
They battle wolves, Trolls, Vikings, n Norse Gods. Can they return the "Jewel", get Thor's hammer n evade the evil Feng ? So far I'm loving the author's rendition of ancient Europe along with bits of mythological lore mixed into the plot.
They battle wolves, Trolls, Vikings, n Norse Gods. Can they return the "Jewel", get Thor's hammer n evade the evil Feng ? So far I'm loving the author's rendition of ancient Europe along with bits of mythological lore mixed into the plot.
May 31, 2017
(This review may contain spoilers).
I haven't yet read the first book in this series, but the basic premise was one that I liked the idea of and I found the storyline and characters easy to follow in this.
I thought it was interesting to see how the lives in the real-world game worked. I also liked how the game translated to the real world, such as the whole side-quests thing. I've played computer games before and there never seems to be a real time limit, as multiple side quests can be completed. So it was good to see that the time limit was indicated.
I liked the characters of both Phoenix and Jade, but I felt Truda seemed like a very stereotypical spoiled child. It also wasn't clear why it was so important to get her back to Asgard within the time limit, as what she said seemed to indicate her task was only to help and not to do anything on her own.
While I liked all of the group, I have to say, my favourite was definitely Marcus. It was good to see his more mature personality at odds with Phoenix and Jade, who I felt were realistic in the conflicts between them and the way they were thrust into a whole other world.
I did feel that the danger the characters were in was real and I cared about what was happening to them. It was good to see the use of the myths and that there were realistic problems like the language barriers. Plus, the characters' strength wasn't inexhaustible.
I did think there was a bit too much telling rather than showing going on and where there were larger groups of characters, they all seemed to have one personality. With the Light Elves, the villagers and the Aesir, I would have liked to see more of the individual characters, as it was more difficult to care about the danger they were in. Then again, many of the 'bit' characters in computer games aren't really explored as fully as they could be.
I did enjoy reading this book and I do plan to read the next books in the series, and the first, at some point in the future. I definitely liked the realism.
I haven't yet read the first book in this series, but the basic premise was one that I liked the idea of and I found the storyline and characters easy to follow in this.
I thought it was interesting to see how the lives in the real-world game worked. I also liked how the game translated to the real world, such as the whole side-quests thing. I've played computer games before and there never seems to be a real time limit, as multiple side quests can be completed. So it was good to see that the time limit was indicated.
I liked the characters of both Phoenix and Jade, but I felt Truda seemed like a very stereotypical spoiled child. It also wasn't clear why it was so important to get her back to Asgard within the time limit, as what she said seemed to indicate her task was only to help and not to do anything on her own.
While I liked all of the group, I have to say, my favourite was definitely Marcus. It was good to see his more mature personality at odds with Phoenix and Jade, who I felt were realistic in the conflicts between them and the way they were thrust into a whole other world.
I did feel that the danger the characters were in was real and I cared about what was happening to them. It was good to see the use of the myths and that there were realistic problems like the language barriers. Plus, the characters' strength wasn't inexhaustible.
I did think there was a bit too much telling rather than showing going on and where there were larger groups of characters, they all seemed to have one personality. With the Light Elves, the villagers and the Aesir, I would have liked to see more of the individual characters, as it was more difficult to care about the danger they were in. Then again, many of the 'bit' characters in computer games aren't really explored as fully as they could be.
I did enjoy reading this book and I do plan to read the next books in the series, and the first, at some point in the future. I definitely liked the realism.
June 1, 2021
After taking a while to warm to the first book in the series (The Jewel of Asgard), I flew through this book. This book is set in ancient Sweden, and the adventurers have to traverse the snow covered country to reach the halls of Asgard to return Thor's daughter. There is a Beowulf sub story line and a whole lot of Norse mythology which I loved.
And yes I am hooked on this story now and I need to see how it plays out, so I will be purchasing the remaining books in the series. Well played Author with your free book bait...
And yes I am hooked on this story now and I need to see how it plays out, so I will be purchasing the remaining books in the series. Well played Author with your free book bait...
June 25, 2017
The story continues
This may be aimed at younger readers (it's a long time since I was in that age) but any science fantasy fan will appreciate the series. The characters continue to develop as each quest proceeds. Can hardly wait to start on the 3rd book
This may be aimed at younger readers (it's a long time since I was in that age) but any science fantasy fan will appreciate the series. The characters continue to develop as each quest proceeds. Can hardly wait to start on the 3rd book
November 1, 2018
Awesome as always!!!! Loved how the story was always just about to end, and then....nope! Kept me guessing from start to finish. Lots of plot twists, characters changed and evolved, so exciting!!! ;) Great work Aiki!
July 13, 2019
Good book.
October 8, 2022
Great book and easy to read
The story and action continues. Really had me on the edge of my seat.... Looking forward to seeing where the journey takes me next
The story and action continues. Really had me on the edge of my seat.... Looking forward to seeing where the journey takes me next
December 29, 2022
A great early teen series
November 21, 2020
Really enjoyed this which is the second book in the series. Now in Scandinavia we come across a range of challenges set for our main characters each being well planned and written to make you want to keep reading to find out what happens next! There are plenty of twists and turns which ensures you maintain your interesting enjoyment as the story progresses. A good, easy reading book.
March 1, 2017
You can read my review at http://tims-reviews.blogspot.com/2017....
June 17, 2012
Book two continues with Phoenix, Jade and their companions traveling through Nordic lands to try and return Truda to her home, and then get hold of Thor’s hammer. Failing to do so will not only bring about the end of the computer game world but their original world as well!
As you would expect level two of the game is harder than the first. The warriors have to battle against indestructible trolls, and Jade has to use her wits to help defend them in a Norse Gods courtroom or they will become sacrifices!
Fortunately the computer avatars skills seem to have improved since the first book, this helps them with their quests but they still have to struggle to overcome great odds.
The personalities of the “real” characters are also developed, with all of them getting more fleshed out in this book. All four main characters in the party, as well as the newly acquired Truda are great to read about and are very interesting.
Phoenix and Jade are at odds in this book, often arguing or being mean to each other. In one of my favourite sections of the book, Marcus gives an excellent practical demonstration to Phoenix of how co-operating with a friend will get you more points than trying to compete with them.
Jade and Phoenix also deal with real feelings, such as fear of having to be in this world without the other one, as well as missing their families.
The computer game elements are not quite as prominent in this book. Jade and Phoenix still have a number of lives and this becomes an issue in this book as they start to get used up. They also sometimes talk or think about their lives in the ‘real’ world. They have to use some of their skills from their original lives. Although I somewhat missed seeing the computer game parts of the book, it did make it more interesting in a way as it does raise the question if the computer game world is real?
The plot is cleverly woven and several seemingly different things, turn out to have a common root that is only revealed at the end of the book.
The pacing is excellent with a great balance between fast action sequences and slower talking/thinking scenes.
There is quite a bit a humour in the book again, one of the funniest is when Phoenix gets to use a real toilet again!
As there are some mildly violent fighting sequences this book is probably suitable for teenagers or older.
As the rest of the series is free on the Nook I will be reading them as well, even if they weren't free I would get them.
As you would expect level two of the game is harder than the first. The warriors have to battle against indestructible trolls, and Jade has to use her wits to help defend them in a Norse Gods courtroom or they will become sacrifices!
Fortunately the computer avatars skills seem to have improved since the first book, this helps them with their quests but they still have to struggle to overcome great odds.
The personalities of the “real” characters are also developed, with all of them getting more fleshed out in this book. All four main characters in the party, as well as the newly acquired Truda are great to read about and are very interesting.
Phoenix and Jade are at odds in this book, often arguing or being mean to each other. In one of my favourite sections of the book, Marcus gives an excellent practical demonstration to Phoenix of how co-operating with a friend will get you more points than trying to compete with them.
Jade and Phoenix also deal with real feelings, such as fear of having to be in this world without the other one, as well as missing their families.
The computer game elements are not quite as prominent in this book. Jade and Phoenix still have a number of lives and this becomes an issue in this book as they start to get used up. They also sometimes talk or think about their lives in the ‘real’ world. They have to use some of their skills from their original lives. Although I somewhat missed seeing the computer game parts of the book, it did make it more interesting in a way as it does raise the question if the computer game world is real?
The plot is cleverly woven and several seemingly different things, turn out to have a common root that is only revealed at the end of the book.
The pacing is excellent with a great balance between fast action sequences and slower talking/thinking scenes.
There is quite a bit a humour in the book again, one of the funniest is when Phoenix gets to use a real toilet again!
As there are some mildly violent fighting sequences this book is probably suitable for teenagers or older.
As the rest of the series is free on the Nook I will be reading them as well, even if they weren't free I would get them.
May 13, 2012
Phoenix, Jade, Marcus, & Brynn are back in the second level of the computer game 80AD. This time they are in the frozen lands of Scandinavia trying to return the jewel they obtained in the first level to its rightful place in Asgard, home of the Norse gods. As you might imagine, they do not find the going easy or enjoyable. This time they encounter wolves, larger than life (as in 20 feet large) trolls, elves, and the Norse gods themselves. And, to make matters worse, they are unsure as to how they are going to steal Thor's hammer. You know, it's not nice to steal from the gods, if you can even do it at all.
I appreciate the way that the author developed the characters in this book so well. For example, as I read it was easy to forget that Phoenix and Jade, in the real world are only in their early teens, but the characters they have become in the game are 5-6 years older. Yet in the story we find the petty arguing that is not uncharacteristic of stressed out kids in their early teens. We also see the childishness of Truda, a 6 year old as she acts like a 6 year old, have tantrums and wanting things her own way. The arguments between Phoenix and Jade are resolved through the steady, level headed, influence of Marcus.
So far, this series has proven to be quite an enjoyable read, taking us on an adventure through the ancient, and mystical worlds of both the Druids and Norse gods. I'm looking forward to their next adventure as their quest continues, this time into the land of Egypt. As I approached the end of this book, I found myself drawing a comparison between these books and Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and Kane Family Chronicles series. I find these to be as enjoyable as those are. With strong male and female characters I believe that this series would be enjoyed by both boys and girls alike. As I read, the story progressed so smoothly and seamlessly that I didn't even notice the passage of time.
I appreciate the way that the author developed the characters in this book so well. For example, as I read it was easy to forget that Phoenix and Jade, in the real world are only in their early teens, but the characters they have become in the game are 5-6 years older. Yet in the story we find the petty arguing that is not uncharacteristic of stressed out kids in their early teens. We also see the childishness of Truda, a 6 year old as she acts like a 6 year old, have tantrums and wanting things her own way. The arguments between Phoenix and Jade are resolved through the steady, level headed, influence of Marcus.
So far, this series has proven to be quite an enjoyable read, taking us on an adventure through the ancient, and mystical worlds of both the Druids and Norse gods. I'm looking forward to their next adventure as their quest continues, this time into the land of Egypt. As I approached the end of this book, I found myself drawing a comparison between these books and Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and Kane Family Chronicles series. I find these to be as enjoyable as those are. With strong male and female characters I believe that this series would be enjoyed by both boys and girls alike. As I read, the story progressed so smoothly and seamlessly that I didn't even notice the passage of time.
March 4, 2013
The quest continues on Level 2. Both Phoenix & Jade are continually acting like little kids, so selfish and self-sufficient, not even wanting to have to share the glory with adults that offer their help. Really, the Elf King says he will send word for everyone to help them on their quests. Jade says, “NO!” How stupid! She tells the King, “Promise me you won’t let your people help us!” Makes no sense at all.
Phoenix is supposed to be a warrior, but NEVER thinks to rest or sleep when given the opportunity, when there is nothing else to do. He is more like a spoiled brat than a warrior. He NEVER listens to anything anyone says. Jade at least seems to be her avatar all the time. Phoenix seems to only be a warrior when there is a battle going on, the rest of the time he is a stupid little kid. I know 8 year olds that act more mature than he does! And supposedly his avatar is supposed to be 17 or 18. If you read my review of book #1, you will understand that it seems like as they progress into the quest, they regress in actual age, rather than learning and growing in their acceptance of each other and working together. I would have enjoyed this book more if the author had allowed them to mature and learn from the different situations they encountered along the way. Their immaturity is really the major plot blocking out what should be the main focus of the book. It is a major distraction from the fantasy. I agree with another reader that said the 2 main characters can’t seem to get over themselves! I enjoyed the "quest" of a group of people in both LOTR & The Sword of Shannara so much that it allowed me to overlook these glaring negatives in the story.
Phoenix is supposed to be a warrior, but NEVER thinks to rest or sleep when given the opportunity, when there is nothing else to do. He is more like a spoiled brat than a warrior. He NEVER listens to anything anyone says. Jade at least seems to be her avatar all the time. Phoenix seems to only be a warrior when there is a battle going on, the rest of the time he is a stupid little kid. I know 8 year olds that act more mature than he does! And supposedly his avatar is supposed to be 17 or 18. If you read my review of book #1, you will understand that it seems like as they progress into the quest, they regress in actual age, rather than learning and growing in their acceptance of each other and working together. I would have enjoyed this book more if the author had allowed them to mature and learn from the different situations they encountered along the way. Their immaturity is really the major plot blocking out what should be the main focus of the book. It is a major distraction from the fantasy. I agree with another reader that said the 2 main characters can’t seem to get over themselves! I enjoyed the "quest" of a group of people in both LOTR & The Sword of Shannara so much that it allowed me to overlook these glaring negatives in the story.
July 13, 2012
Its Hammer Time!
I really enjoyed the second book in this series of five. Too bad Aiki does not have a better editor, misspelled words or words with an added letter were distracting.
But the good news is the story telling has stepped up another couple levels. Imagine the five questing friends are now in Trolltiven or Troll land. A black wolf has force them there. After finding a cave Marcus goes out to hunt food, the two or four footed kind. But a Troll by the name of Grendel finds him and starts to play with him like a cat does with a mouse.
Worried when Marcus does not return Phoenix goes looking for him and finds Marcus and a twenty foot high troll playing kick the can. Only problem that is Marcus' new name 'can'. Playing tag team P & M distract Grendel until they get to a small mountain with a flat top. Marcus starts lighting pine trees around the flat table top and Phoenix plays tag with Grendel.
Inspiration comes in the form of a lasso rope which Marcus gives Phoenix. Laying it out as a trap in the middle of the flat top, Grendel thinks it a funny joke. Until after stepping into it Phoenix runs between Grendel's legs, around and around go Phoenix and Grendel. Finally Grendel is so tied up that he stumbles and falls. At just the point of hitting the ground the sun comes up and petrifies Grendel. End of Rock Giant. Just a taste to wet your appetite.
I really enjoyed the second book in this series of five. Too bad Aiki does not have a better editor, misspelled words or words with an added letter were distracting.
But the good news is the story telling has stepped up another couple levels. Imagine the five questing friends are now in Trolltiven or Troll land. A black wolf has force them there. After finding a cave Marcus goes out to hunt food, the two or four footed kind. But a Troll by the name of Grendel finds him and starts to play with him like a cat does with a mouse.
Worried when Marcus does not return Phoenix goes looking for him and finds Marcus and a twenty foot high troll playing kick the can. Only problem that is Marcus' new name 'can'. Playing tag team P & M distract Grendel until they get to a small mountain with a flat top. Marcus starts lighting pine trees around the flat table top and Phoenix plays tag with Grendel.
Inspiration comes in the form of a lasso rope which Marcus gives Phoenix. Laying it out as a trap in the middle of the flat top, Grendel thinks it a funny joke. Until after stepping into it Phoenix runs between Grendel's legs, around and around go Phoenix and Grendel. Finally Grendel is so tied up that he stumbles and falls. At just the point of hitting the ground the sun comes up and petrifies Grendel. End of Rock Giant. Just a taste to wet your appetite.
July 3, 2013
This is the second in the fantasy series 80AD, and they should be read in order, as they act as the levels in the game, and there are "previously in 80AD..." recap moments!
Phoenix and Jade, still trapped in the game world, have to return the Jewel of Asgard to her home, and also have to somehow steal the Hammer of Thor. They and their companions have to battle the harsh landscape, to fight Grendel the troll - nicely done, I thought! - and get to Asgard.
I like the way the author weaves tradition legends into the story, but with just enough of a twist that you don't automatically know what is going to happen.
The main characters are still finding their way to trusting and working with each other. Each of them entered the game for similar, but different reasons, but in order to get home again, they have to learn to compromise and forgive - something which isn't easy to do when you're 13 years old and think the world is unfair.
This story wove in elements of the Norse legends - Odinn, Loki, Thor, Freyr - while the first in the series concentrated on Albion. The third will move to Egypt.
Phoenix and Jade, still trapped in the game world, have to return the Jewel of Asgard to her home, and also have to somehow steal the Hammer of Thor. They and their companions have to battle the harsh landscape, to fight Grendel the troll - nicely done, I thought! - and get to Asgard.
I like the way the author weaves tradition legends into the story, but with just enough of a twist that you don't automatically know what is going to happen.
The main characters are still finding their way to trusting and working with each other. Each of them entered the game for similar, but different reasons, but in order to get home again, they have to learn to compromise and forgive - something which isn't easy to do when you're 13 years old and think the world is unfair.
This story wove in elements of the Norse legends - Odinn, Loki, Thor, Freyr - while the first in the series concentrated on Albion. The third will move to Egypt.
February 7, 2013
Actually, it was barely OK...
I liked very few things in it; one of them was the suspension.
But I disliked most of it... like the ancient Greece "gods", the long monologs and the constant doubt about everything! There are more questions in this story than the statements; they -Jade and Phoenix- kept asking themselves repeating and stupid questions that we -and they- already know the answer to most of them. Like; are they in a game or not? will they survive? "can I do it?"...
In conclusion; I finished it just to know if there's something that can astonish me and make me continue reading the next 3 books... well... I'm not going to read the rest of the series, unless I was so desperate to read anything!!!
I liked very few things in it; one of them was the suspension.
But I disliked most of it... like the ancient Greece "gods", the long monologs and the constant doubt about everything! There are more questions in this story than the statements; they -Jade and Phoenix- kept asking themselves repeating and stupid questions that we -and they- already know the answer to most of them. Like; are they in a game or not? will they survive? "can I do it?"...
In conclusion; I finished it just to know if there's something that can astonish me and make me continue reading the next 3 books... well... I'm not going to read the rest of the series, unless I was so desperate to read anything!!!
August 19, 2012
This one was slightly better than the last, but I still would have liked to see a bit more depth. Phoenix showed little to no growth and has become rather prickish. Jade continues to be insecure, but at least has been more likeable than Phoenix. The plot is still pretty good, although I'd like to see a bit more description. I will say that the mythology is well researched and I am looking forward to the next book simply due to the fact that it takes place in Egypt.
April 3, 2013
This one (2nd in the 80AD series) kept my attention much more than the first. Enjoyed the character's personalities much more. Maybe I am just getting used to them?
There were some battle scenes but it seemed a bit toned down in many spots. In the end, some of the major resolutions were more brains than braun. That is the case in role playing games so it adds to the reality factor. I am looking forward to the task awaiting them in Level 3.
There were some battle scenes but it seemed a bit toned down in many spots. In the end, some of the major resolutions were more brains than braun. That is the case in role playing games so it adds to the reality factor. I am looking forward to the task awaiting them in Level 3.
Read
September 28, 2012Good fun easy to read. This is the second in the series of five that I down loaded as a free eBook from Kobo. Series is based on a role playing game in which two kids get transported into the game and have to complete a series of quest. If you are looking for some light entertainment and like sword and sorcery this will fill the bill. Start with the Jewel of Asgard(book one)and enjoy.
November 20, 2012
Started this Sunday, finished Monday. I enjoyed this book, but not as much as the first book. I was still enthralled with the characters.
This book had a few surprises and a good lead into part three. The meeting with the elves was a little light. It should have had a little more details explaining the treatment of humans.
This book had a few surprises and a good lead into part three. The meeting with the elves was a little light. It should have had a little more details explaining the treatment of humans.
March 8, 2012
2.5 stars. Both main characters have gotten rather whiny, which is more than a little frustrating and irritating. Not as strong a read as Book 1, but still worth reading, and I will continue reading the series, which I think is solid overall.
July 21, 2014
I enjoy the action that exist in this book. It was a fun and enjoyable read. Interesting about the little twist towards that end of the book about Jade's character. I was able to finish this book quickly. I am hoping that the third book is just as much fun and is enjoyable as well.
December 20, 2014
The second in the series continues the friends' quest to finish the "game" and return to their own world. An old concept (gamers incorporated into a video game made popular by Tron) that involves Norse mythology.
July 4, 2012
Interesting, clever AND educational. Good story so you don't even realise you're learning. Great series so far.
August 23, 2012
Good second book to the series. The mythology aspect was well done.
July 10, 2013
great continuation of the series. it follows on nicely. looking forward to the next one
October 22, 2013
I give this one 3.5 stars as well.
June 18, 2014
A fun read, the books never really slows down.
July 10, 2014
Excited to find out what happens next!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews