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Solstice Child: A Viking Romance
A blood debt owed. Two enemies love the same woman. One of them must die. At the summer solstice festival passion and destiny collide.
Runa, a solstice child, is denied the love and protection of her family, pushing her to desperate lengths to escape their cruelty. Guided by the goddess Freya, she decides to weave her own destiny. When two men enter her life, she must choose between them and risk everything for love.
Brand vowed to collect a blood debt from the Viking raiders who slew his family. His hunt has led him to a village harboring his enemy. Bound by the sacred peace of the solstice festival he must wait to take his revenge. He never anticipated the captivating allure of Runa who threatens to disrupt his path to vengeance.
Eiland, on the verge of death after being hunted for years, must pay for the crimes of his youth. Then he finds hope and a reason to fight back in the arms of a mysterious girl. As fate closes in on him, he is faced with a crucial reclaim his hold on life or embrace the halls of Valhalla.
Passion, vengeance, and destiny intertwine as two bitter enemies contend for the love of one woman. Who will emerge triumphant in the battle between the two men Runa loves?
Solstice Child is a mesmerizing stand-alone adventure that will captivate readers from beginning to end. With its intoxicating blend of sensual historical fantasy romance and elements of Norse mythology, this tale weaves a spellbinding tapestry of love, passion, and sacrifice. Brace yourself for a riveting love-triangle romance that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
If you liked the movie “The Northman” and the TV series “Vikings” and “Valhalla”, you’ll love Solstice Child. Recommended for mature readers.
Runa, a solstice child, is denied the love and protection of her family, pushing her to desperate lengths to escape their cruelty. Guided by the goddess Freya, she decides to weave her own destiny. When two men enter her life, she must choose between them and risk everything for love.
Brand vowed to collect a blood debt from the Viking raiders who slew his family. His hunt has led him to a village harboring his enemy. Bound by the sacred peace of the solstice festival he must wait to take his revenge. He never anticipated the captivating allure of Runa who threatens to disrupt his path to vengeance.
Eiland, on the verge of death after being hunted for years, must pay for the crimes of his youth. Then he finds hope and a reason to fight back in the arms of a mysterious girl. As fate closes in on him, he is faced with a crucial reclaim his hold on life or embrace the halls of Valhalla.
Passion, vengeance, and destiny intertwine as two bitter enemies contend for the love of one woman. Who will emerge triumphant in the battle between the two men Runa loves?
Solstice Child is a mesmerizing stand-alone adventure that will captivate readers from beginning to end. With its intoxicating blend of sensual historical fantasy romance and elements of Norse mythology, this tale weaves a spellbinding tapestry of love, passion, and sacrifice. Brace yourself for a riveting love-triangle romance that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
If you liked the movie “The Northman” and the TV series “Vikings” and “Valhalla”, you’ll love Solstice Child. Recommended for mature readers.
- GenresHistorical Romance
237 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2023
12 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Wendy L. Anderson
16 books32 followersWendy L. Anderson is a writer of passionately charged fantasy. Breaking the barriers of typical fantasy themes, she created the Kingdom of Jior epic fantasy series. A lusty and poetic five-book series that will have you wanting more in her Legends of Everclearing spinoff series. Inspired by authors such as Robert E. Howard and Morgan Llywelyn, Wendy went on to write three other stand-alone works; A Cut Twice as Deep, Ulrik, and Rapunzel's Tower. These fantasy works break free from the usual boundaries of fantasy genres.
A Colorado native and mother of two; she has decided it is time to write down the fantasies from her mind. Writing about everything from fantastical worlds to the stuff of her dreams she takes her stories along interesting paths while portraying characters and worlds she sees in her mind's eye. Her goal is to deviate from common themes, write in original directions and transport her reader to the worlds of her creation.
Wendy L. Anderson's fantasy has action, adventure, and suspense with just the right amount of romance! Find out more at: www.wendylanderson.com
Finalist in the 2022 Colorado Author’s League Awards for Rapunzel’s Tower
Of Demon Kind 3rd Place Winner! Romance Writers of America Write Touch Readers; award 2020
Finalist in the 2020 Write Touch Readers' Award Contest
Honorable mention Great Northwest Book Contest
A Colorado native and mother of two; she has decided it is time to write down the fantasies from her mind. Writing about everything from fantastical worlds to the stuff of her dreams she takes her stories along interesting paths while portraying characters and worlds she sees in her mind's eye. Her goal is to deviate from common themes, write in original directions and transport her reader to the worlds of her creation.
Wendy L. Anderson's fantasy has action, adventure, and suspense with just the right amount of romance! Find out more at: www.wendylanderson.com
Finalist in the 2022 Colorado Author’s League Awards for Rapunzel’s Tower
Of Demon Kind 3rd Place Winner! Romance Writers of America Write Touch Readers; award 2020
Finalist in the 2020 Write Touch Readers' Award Contest
Honorable mention Great Northwest Book Contest
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 12, 2024
A Solstice Child is supposed to be loved, they are seen as a gift from the gods, but Runa isn't.
As you capture a glimpse into Runa's life in her village, everything is far more twisted than it may seem.
Two strangers, days apart, make their way into Runa's life and all in time for the Solstice festivities.
These strangers are enemies that share a story of their own, now fighting to win the heart of the maiden they both love. But only one can live and take Runa's hand.
With twists and turns, Norse mythology, blood debts, romance and the Solstice festivities, this book is bound to keep you enticed.
As far as spice goes I would say 3 chillies.
I found the plot intriguing, and just when I thought I had a grasp of everything, the plot continued to thicken.
I think Runa is a well written character. As the story progresses, you get a feel for her naivety and sense of awareness. Her new found emotions towards these strangers are conveyed well through her thoughts, feelings and actions which I enjoyed reading.
This story is filled with Norse mythology, which I think gives it something special.
Solstice festivities are described, along with gods, goddesses, runes and other magical things.
Wendy L. Anderson has written a great romantasy, with a love triangle that you will definitely think about after you've finished reading.
I highly recommend this book to those looking for a viking romance, filled with a layered plot, Norse mythology and a love triangle between enemies.
As you capture a glimpse into Runa's life in her village, everything is far more twisted than it may seem.
Two strangers, days apart, make their way into Runa's life and all in time for the Solstice festivities.
These strangers are enemies that share a story of their own, now fighting to win the heart of the maiden they both love. But only one can live and take Runa's hand.
With twists and turns, Norse mythology, blood debts, romance and the Solstice festivities, this book is bound to keep you enticed.
As far as spice goes I would say 3 chillies.
I found the plot intriguing, and just when I thought I had a grasp of everything, the plot continued to thicken.
I think Runa is a well written character. As the story progresses, you get a feel for her naivety and sense of awareness. Her new found emotions towards these strangers are conveyed well through her thoughts, feelings and actions which I enjoyed reading.
This story is filled with Norse mythology, which I think gives it something special.
Solstice festivities are described, along with gods, goddesses, runes and other magical things.
Wendy L. Anderson has written a great romantasy, with a love triangle that you will definitely think about after you've finished reading.
I highly recommend this book to those looking for a viking romance, filled with a layered plot, Norse mythology and a love triangle between enemies.
April 8, 2025
Best Viking Love Triangle Romance
Runa is a solstice child, conceived outside of her parents' relationship, she is mistreated by both her mother and her step-father, like a Viking family burden. Despite the abusive upbringing she endures, Runa prays to the Viking goddess, Freyja (goddess of beauty, love and war), and remains kind and thoughtful. She encounters an old man that is sick and badly injured and nurses the old man back. She continues her life with strength and courage.
The author, Wendy L. Anderson, despite the storyline being fantasy, she incorporates historically Norse legend, primitive pagan beliefs, and accurate description of Viking life. The characters are real and relatable. Runa struggles with acceptance until two men fall in love with her, Brand and Eiland.
Brand Keitelsson finds out that Runa was conceived outside of marriage and is not accepted by her family, of which Brand said that it's not her fault her mother was an unfaithful wife. Runa and Brand fall in love and take part in a solstice celebration. Runa's hateful family is trying to promise her to the old man, Eiland. This book has it all: love, battles, and drama. Runa's family tries to poison Brand and force Runa to marry Eiland. Brand gets approval from Runa's real father to marry her. Which man with Runa choose?
Runa is a solstice child, conceived outside of her parents' relationship, she is mistreated by both her mother and her step-father, like a Viking family burden. Despite the abusive upbringing she endures, Runa prays to the Viking goddess, Freyja (goddess of beauty, love and war), and remains kind and thoughtful. She encounters an old man that is sick and badly injured and nurses the old man back. She continues her life with strength and courage.
The author, Wendy L. Anderson, despite the storyline being fantasy, she incorporates historically Norse legend, primitive pagan beliefs, and accurate description of Viking life. The characters are real and relatable. Runa struggles with acceptance until two men fall in love with her, Brand and Eiland.
Brand Keitelsson finds out that Runa was conceived outside of marriage and is not accepted by her family, of which Brand said that it's not her fault her mother was an unfaithful wife. Runa and Brand fall in love and take part in a solstice celebration. Runa's hateful family is trying to promise her to the old man, Eiland. This book has it all: love, battles, and drama. Runa's family tries to poison Brand and force Runa to marry Eiland. Brand gets approval from Runa's real father to marry her. Which man with Runa choose?
August 23, 2023
Highly recommended for romantasy fans!
Runa is a daughter of the “Solstice”. She was fathered by her mother’s true love, during the heat of the summer solstice festival to honor “Freya” the goddess of fertility. She is not accepted by either family and treated as a slave. When she discovers an injured man in the woods, he feverishly talks about being pursued by a draugr - a demon. She helps him back to her village and is tasked with his care. Her feelings for Eiland develop as she nurses him back to health. But when Brand arrives in his pursuit of revenge, Runa meets the handsome stranger and feels something she never felt before. As fate would have it; it is the beginning of the “Solstice” festivities and Brand agrees to allow Eiland to heal until the end of the 12 day celebration to fight a more able opponent. A love triangle in the making with death hanging in the balance. The author blends Norse mythology and sexy Vikings for a romantic trip back in time. A time where fairytales can still happen. Highly recommended for romantasy fans!
Runa is a daughter of the “Solstice”. She was fathered by her mother’s true love, during the heat of the summer solstice festival to honor “Freya” the goddess of fertility. She is not accepted by either family and treated as a slave. When she discovers an injured man in the woods, he feverishly talks about being pursued by a draugr - a demon. She helps him back to her village and is tasked with his care. Her feelings for Eiland develop as she nurses him back to health. But when Brand arrives in his pursuit of revenge, Runa meets the handsome stranger and feels something she never felt before. As fate would have it; it is the beginning of the “Solstice” festivities and Brand agrees to allow Eiland to heal until the end of the 12 day celebration to fight a more able opponent. A love triangle in the making with death hanging in the balance. The author blends Norse mythology and sexy Vikings for a romantic trip back in time. A time where fairytales can still happen. Highly recommended for romantasy fans!
August 3, 2023
I really enjoyed Solstice Child! I love Norse Mythology and Vikings, so this was a fantastic read for me.
Solstice child centres on Runa, Brand and Eiland, it's a love triangle.
Runa is born of the Solstice and is considered to some as a blessing not to her family though, she's got it rough and all she wants to do is escape.
Brand lost everything when he was younger, he's family died at the hands of what he thought were friends. He's now on a blood hunt and there's only one person left.
Eiland is an old warrior but looks can be deceiving.
See how they are entwine with eachother in this fantastic Norse mythology/ viking novel.
This novel is a standalone and it does have a HAE.
I loved the characters and the storyline. I wasn't sure who I wanted to win.
Runa has this innocence but she's got a spine and knows what she wants.
The writing as I have found with all Wendy L Anderson's novels flows so well it makes reading easy and just makes you want to continue to read.
Solstice child centres on Runa, Brand and Eiland, it's a love triangle.
Runa is born of the Solstice and is considered to some as a blessing not to her family though, she's got it rough and all she wants to do is escape.
Brand lost everything when he was younger, he's family died at the hands of what he thought were friends. He's now on a blood hunt and there's only one person left.
Eiland is an old warrior but looks can be deceiving.
See how they are entwine with eachother in this fantastic Norse mythology/ viking novel.
This novel is a standalone and it does have a HAE.
I loved the characters and the storyline. I wasn't sure who I wanted to win.
Runa has this innocence but she's got a spine and knows what she wants.
The writing as I have found with all Wendy L Anderson's novels flows so well it makes reading easy and just makes you want to continue to read.
August 4, 2023
Solstice Child is a Viking romance and after reading A Cut Twice As Deep - the first in the series, I was really looking forward to reading it.
Though they are part of the Viking series, each book is a standalone and do not connect together in the stories.
I really love Wendy L Anderson's writing, I always get swept away in her stories and Solstice Child was no different.
I read this in one morning and I was so hooked.
The writing built up the world so richly and really threw me into the story and world.
I loved every twist that presented itself throughout the story.
I really liked our main characters and I felt so badly for Runa, she had a hard life but she was still so strong. The differences between Eiland and Brand were so good that they brought out the different sides to Runa. I really liked the three of them and the direction the story went.
Solstice Child is a fast paced page turner and I loved every minute of it.
Though they are part of the Viking series, each book is a standalone and do not connect together in the stories.
I really love Wendy L Anderson's writing, I always get swept away in her stories and Solstice Child was no different.
I read this in one morning and I was so hooked.
The writing built up the world so richly and really threw me into the story and world.
I loved every twist that presented itself throughout the story.
I really liked our main characters and I felt so badly for Runa, she had a hard life but she was still so strong. The differences between Eiland and Brand were so good that they brought out the different sides to Runa. I really liked the three of them and the direction the story went.
Solstice Child is a fast paced page turner and I loved every minute of it.
May 31, 2025
A great read
Wendy L. Anderson’s Solstice Child is a gripping Viking romance steeped in passion, vengeance, and Norse mythology. At its heart is Runa, a solstice child seeking freedom from a cruel family and a fate she refuses to accept. Guided by the goddess Freya, Runa’s journey is one of empowerment and heartache as she finds herself torn between two dangerous yet compelling men—each with his own tormented past and claim on her heart.
Brand’s thirst for vengeance burns as fiercely as Eiland’s longing for redemption, and Anderson skillfully balances the love triangle without veering into cliché. The tension between duty and desire crackles on the page, especially against the backdrop of the summer solstice festival, where the sacred and the savage entwine.
Anderson’s prose is lyrical, the pacing steady, and the world richly textured with Norse mysticism. While a bit more character depth would have elevated it to five stars, Solstice Child is still a darkly romantic and unforgettable tale that fans of Vikings and The Northman will devour.
Wendy L. Anderson’s Solstice Child is a gripping Viking romance steeped in passion, vengeance, and Norse mythology. At its heart is Runa, a solstice child seeking freedom from a cruel family and a fate she refuses to accept. Guided by the goddess Freya, Runa’s journey is one of empowerment and heartache as she finds herself torn between two dangerous yet compelling men—each with his own tormented past and claim on her heart.
Brand’s thirst for vengeance burns as fiercely as Eiland’s longing for redemption, and Anderson skillfully balances the love triangle without veering into cliché. The tension between duty and desire crackles on the page, especially against the backdrop of the summer solstice festival, where the sacred and the savage entwine.
Anderson’s prose is lyrical, the pacing steady, and the world richly textured with Norse mysticism. While a bit more character depth would have elevated it to five stars, Solstice Child is still a darkly romantic and unforgettable tale that fans of Vikings and The Northman will devour.
August 1, 2023
If you are interested in Norse mythology or vikings AND you need a standalone romantasy, look no further.
I really enjoyed this book! It was magical, enthralling, and kept me turning the pages. My heart went out for Runa, the main character who is treated more like a servant than a daughter. The author put her through it 😂
Jokes aside, the book itself was touching and, truly, I kept going back and forth between who I wanted Runa to end up with. I loved them both!
I really enjoyed this book! It was magical, enthralling, and kept me turning the pages. My heart went out for Runa, the main character who is treated more like a servant than a daughter. The author put her through it 😂
Jokes aside, the book itself was touching and, truly, I kept going back and forth between who I wanted Runa to end up with. I loved them both!
June 27, 2023
Great Story!!
This was such an enjoyable read. I loved the characters and storyline so much. I knew the battle outcome. Eiland, Runa and Brand were such strong characters. Well now I’ve a new author to follow. On to my next book. 💜💜💜💜💜
This was such an enjoyable read. I loved the characters and storyline so much. I knew the battle outcome. Eiland, Runa and Brand were such strong characters. Well now I’ve a new author to follow. On to my next book. 💜💜💜💜💜
August 24, 2023
Title: Solstice Child
Author: Wendy L. Anderson
Release Date: June 21st, 2023
Page Count: 195
Format: ebook
Start Date: August 1st, 2023
Finish Date: August 2nd, 2023
Rating: 3 Stars
Review:
So I'm going to be real here. I didn't really enjoy this story very much at all. It had a lot of potential. And I did enjoy it enough to not set it down, but I wasn't in love with it. There were many factors of the book that made me feel really uncomfortable. The sex scenes in the book just weren't really all that appealing to me. Especially certain ones. I won't go into detail about those. For one, it's inappropriate. For two, I don't want to bias people about the book in case it's just a me thing.
There were many parts of this book that I feel were really important that were rushed or glossed over. I feel like some parts could have been cut that weren't really necessary. This is obviously a personal opinion. I just can't really explain well enough how much I wish there would have been certain parts explained or drawn out more in all honesty.
All this being said, I think there would be quite a few readers that would really enjoy it. They would enjoy the angst and the tension. They would enjoy the It just wasn't really for me. It wasn't really my thing. I did enjoy the premise behind the story. I also enjoyed the ending. So there's that.
Author: Wendy L. Anderson
Release Date: June 21st, 2023
Page Count: 195
Format: ebook
Start Date: August 1st, 2023
Finish Date: August 2nd, 2023
Rating: 3 Stars
Review:
So I'm going to be real here. I didn't really enjoy this story very much at all. It had a lot of potential. And I did enjoy it enough to not set it down, but I wasn't in love with it. There were many factors of the book that made me feel really uncomfortable. The sex scenes in the book just weren't really all that appealing to me. Especially certain ones. I won't go into detail about those. For one, it's inappropriate. For two, I don't want to bias people about the book in case it's just a me thing.
There were many parts of this book that I feel were really important that were rushed or glossed over. I feel like some parts could have been cut that weren't really necessary. This is obviously a personal opinion. I just can't really explain well enough how much I wish there would have been certain parts explained or drawn out more in all honesty.
All this being said, I think there would be quite a few readers that would really enjoy it. They would enjoy the angst and the tension. They would enjoy the It just wasn't really for me. It wasn't really my thing. I did enjoy the premise behind the story. I also enjoyed the ending. So there's that.
July 2, 2023
A fast paced, deeply emotional historical romance with a hint of divine fantasy.
Runa was conceived during the solstice, which to some it's a blessing and to others... not so much. Read, to find out why. She's raised by parents to resent and kind of hate her and she's treated not like a daughter, but like a captured slaved (a thrall). In the book it says she's 19, though she has an innocence about her that makes her seem younger (especially in the era the book is set). She's never been allowed to partake in the solstice events because she's forced to be a servant instead.
She saves an older man (in his 40sish) who was attacked by 'the boy'. Later, Runs finds out who the boy is. And, to complicate her life, she meets him and he becomes a big part of her life as well. Thus, the love triangle. It took a while for me to see the older as a love interest, and in fact they call each other grandfather/granddaughter because of the age, but Anderson worked it marvelously that I could see their regard for each other shift.
Now, I'm not wanting to dig into the story too much as it's a delight as it unfolds and I don't want to ruin things. Runa, though innocent and abused, has a spine and she's tired of the treatment. The arrival of the two men spark within her a desire for things to change, and she's determined to get away as soon as the 12 day Solstice festival ends. It's very character driven with everyone out there with a goal and a plan and Runa seems to be caught in the middle of of it all.
I genuinely cared for Runa and wanted to see her succeed and be happy. Both of them men were reasonable and I could see her falling in love with either. At times I wasn't sure who I wanted to win.
A delightful romance with a hint of influence of the gods, I wouldn't necessarily call this fantasy (I think I thought it more heavy fantasy when I picked it up, but that's okay. I love viking/norse historical stories.) A definite recommend for people who enjoy girls with gumption, norse mythic and historical elements, and a solid love triangle.
Runa was conceived during the solstice, which to some it's a blessing and to others... not so much. Read, to find out why. She's raised by parents to resent and kind of hate her and she's treated not like a daughter, but like a captured slaved (a thrall). In the book it says she's 19, though she has an innocence about her that makes her seem younger (especially in the era the book is set). She's never been allowed to partake in the solstice events because she's forced to be a servant instead.
She saves an older man (in his 40sish) who was attacked by 'the boy'. Later, Runs finds out who the boy is. And, to complicate her life, she meets him and he becomes a big part of her life as well. Thus, the love triangle. It took a while for me to see the older as a love interest, and in fact they call each other grandfather/granddaughter because of the age, but Anderson worked it marvelously that I could see their regard for each other shift.
Now, I'm not wanting to dig into the story too much as it's a delight as it unfolds and I don't want to ruin things. Runa, though innocent and abused, has a spine and she's tired of the treatment. The arrival of the two men spark within her a desire for things to change, and she's determined to get away as soon as the 12 day Solstice festival ends. It's very character driven with everyone out there with a goal and a plan and Runa seems to be caught in the middle of of it all.
I genuinely cared for Runa and wanted to see her succeed and be happy. Both of them men were reasonable and I could see her falling in love with either. At times I wasn't sure who I wanted to win.
A delightful romance with a hint of influence of the gods, I wouldn't necessarily call this fantasy (I think I thought it more heavy fantasy when I picked it up, but that's okay. I love viking/norse historical stories.) A definite recommend for people who enjoy girls with gumption, norse mythic and historical elements, and a solid love triangle.
July 18, 2023
I never gave much thought to Vikings until I watched Vikings: Valhalla, and I was struck by how unique their culture was. The different gods they worshiped and the customs in their many clans. This book lured me in just like that show did, peaking my curiosity with the Viking customs, building suspense for the upcoming battle, and making me swoon over the forbidden romance.
Solstice Child follows Runa, a child conceived during the summer solstice, who is mistreated by her family and yearns to escape to a new life. One day, she comes across a wounded Eiland and brings him back to her village to care for him. He warns her that there is a boy who is coming after him. That boy is Brand, who has sworn to collect a blood debt against a group of men who murdered his family ten years ago. Eiland is the last man Brand needs to kill for his vengeance to be complete. Forced to wait to get his revenge because of the solstice celebration, Brand begins to fall in love with Runa....but so has Eiland.
I really enjoyed the world and the story that was built in this book. I felt so badly for Runa and how she was treated by her family, all because of things that were not in her control. Meeting both Eiland and Brand gave her the strength to start defying her father and mother and I loved at the end how she felt empowered to stand up for herself. Personally, I did not understand the romantic relationship between Runa and Eiland. I thought their relationship grew more into friendship, but I did appreciate how Eiland respected Runa and wanted what was best for her. Brand was amazing! A true Viking warrior who wants to avenge his family. I understood his need for vengeance and liked how he was eventually calmed by Runa.
This book was such a page turner and I was anxious to see how everyone's plotting ended up. The ending was everything I wanted, the romance and the retribution.
(I was provided a free reader copy in exchange for my honest review.)
Solstice Child follows Runa, a child conceived during the summer solstice, who is mistreated by her family and yearns to escape to a new life. One day, she comes across a wounded Eiland and brings him back to her village to care for him. He warns her that there is a boy who is coming after him. That boy is Brand, who has sworn to collect a blood debt against a group of men who murdered his family ten years ago. Eiland is the last man Brand needs to kill for his vengeance to be complete. Forced to wait to get his revenge because of the solstice celebration, Brand begins to fall in love with Runa....but so has Eiland.
I really enjoyed the world and the story that was built in this book. I felt so badly for Runa and how she was treated by her family, all because of things that were not in her control. Meeting both Eiland and Brand gave her the strength to start defying her father and mother and I loved at the end how she felt empowered to stand up for herself. Personally, I did not understand the romantic relationship between Runa and Eiland. I thought their relationship grew more into friendship, but I did appreciate how Eiland respected Runa and wanted what was best for her. Brand was amazing! A true Viking warrior who wants to avenge his family. I understood his need for vengeance and liked how he was eventually calmed by Runa.
This book was such a page turner and I was anxious to see how everyone's plotting ended up. The ending was everything I wanted, the romance and the retribution.
(I was provided a free reader copy in exchange for my honest review.)
September 18, 2025
Solstice Child is about a young woman named Runa who is the unwanted, unloved, and treated badly by her own family. She is treated more like a servant even though the man who claims her as his daughter is the village leader. Everyone else in the village treats her the same. Then along comes a weak, older gentlemen whom she assists back to her village to tend to his wounds. He is running from a young man who wishes to kill the older gentleman to fulfill a blood debt. The young man stumbles across Runa and forces her to show him to the village but his mission to fulfill his blood debt is postponed due to the twelve-day Solstice celebration. Runa eventually finds that she develops strong feelings for both men who are scheduled to fight each other the morning after the celebrations.
The story is full of tension, both sexual tension and the kind of tension that reminds you her father, mother, brothers and even the other servants are always on the lookout for another reason to punish Runa. Any little misstep will earn her a slap across the face, or an embarrassing, bare backside spanking from her father that usually leaves her tender and bruised.
But the two men that come to Runa's village, are the first two men to show her gentleness and love. And now they must fight to live as well as fight to have to girl they both love.
I really enjoyed this book and would love to read more like it!
The story is full of tension, both sexual tension and the kind of tension that reminds you her father, mother, brothers and even the other servants are always on the lookout for another reason to punish Runa. Any little misstep will earn her a slap across the face, or an embarrassing, bare backside spanking from her father that usually leaves her tender and bruised.
But the two men that come to Runa's village, are the first two men to show her gentleness and love. And now they must fight to live as well as fight to have to girl they both love.
I really enjoyed this book and would love to read more like it!
July 12, 2025
Solstice Child by Wendy L Anderson is a descriptive and engaging historical romance set in the Viking era. It follows Runa as she must escape her past and forge her own future, with Brand, a loyal and devoted warrior who risks everything to be with her.
The backdrop and historical setting on this book was fascinating to me and the depiction of daily life, tradition, and Norse mythology and custom weaved into the pages was masterfully done. I really enjoyed how it fleshed out the story and provided me with a context and understanding of the characters and their actions.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Runa and Brand. I thought they reflected well off one another, and as their relationship developed, their characters matured and reached a deeper level of understanding, both apart their pasts and the futures they want. The plot moved at a steady pace and the love triangle which emerges was a real joy to read. I found the ending satisfying and felt it tied together the loose ends.
This wonderfully crafted and honed adventure really engages the reader and brings romance and historical fiction together brilliantly. This will please a lot of fans of either of these genres.
The backdrop and historical setting on this book was fascinating to me and the depiction of daily life, tradition, and Norse mythology and custom weaved into the pages was masterfully done. I really enjoyed how it fleshed out the story and provided me with a context and understanding of the characters and their actions.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Runa and Brand. I thought they reflected well off one another, and as their relationship developed, their characters matured and reached a deeper level of understanding, both apart their pasts and the futures they want. The plot moved at a steady pace and the love triangle which emerges was a real joy to read. I found the ending satisfying and felt it tied together the loose ends.
This wonderfully crafted and honed adventure really engages the reader and brings romance and historical fiction together brilliantly. This will please a lot of fans of either of these genres.
March 28, 2025
I love the genre, so I went into this read expecting to like the story. I've always liked the feel of a Viking era romance and the added mystical elements were nice. I have to go off and do some research for myself, since it seems like the author did and now I want to know more! This had the vibe of The Northman movie, with harsh elements of the world, but if that movie had a heavier lean to the romance and less on revenge.
And don't get me wrong, revenge was there!
I was really taken with the way the author integrated the three main characters together, setting up impossible relationships that couldn't be reconciled. You know how it had to end, but you cared about the characters enough that you really wished they didn't have to follow their path. In the end, love triumphs and there are pieces of love lost that are carried forward. Prose and writing style were decent, eventually I wasn't critiquing it and the story just carried me along. And honestly, I kinda have a rule. If a book makes me cry, I feel like I have to give it 5 stars.
There is a gift for crafting story here, and I hope the author continues!
And don't get me wrong, revenge was there!
I was really taken with the way the author integrated the three main characters together, setting up impossible relationships that couldn't be reconciled. You know how it had to end, but you cared about the characters enough that you really wished they didn't have to follow their path. In the end, love triumphs and there are pieces of love lost that are carried forward. Prose and writing style were decent, eventually I wasn't critiquing it and the story just carried me along. And honestly, I kinda have a rule. If a book makes me cry, I feel like I have to give it 5 stars.
There is a gift for crafting story here, and I hope the author continues!
April 25, 2025
"Solstice Child" by Wendy Anderson is a special book that I really enjoyed reading. Historical fiction/romance is not my usual genre, but I really appreciated this story. The author is a skilled writer who has filled an interesting world with complex characters and relatable power dynamics. The story is set in Viking Norway, and as far as I understand Viking culture, the author nailed the historical authentic: "trying to make our fortune, we pillaged churches and small villages...you have to understand it was our nature to take what we wanted." The plot centers around themes of identity and inheritance. The story is fast-paced without a dull moment, the dialogue is thoughtful and engaging without being tedious. I really enjoyed the author's writing style and sense of humor. This was probably my favorite quote: "Forgetting his wife, his enemies, and his duties, Gorm announced he was going to p1ss in the bushes and lumbered away."
May 5, 2025
This was a really good read – a Viking romance that felt historically accurate and had a great plot build-up and strong character development. Poor unloved Runa – treated badly by everyone and longing to be loved – was a character it was easy to feel empathy for, and the lovely lyrical storytelling style helped to weave magic into the twelve days spent in her village during the solstice. Brand and Eiland were both troubled, heroic and likable characters, and in the later chapters it became difficult to decide who to root for, which made the story’s ending even more poignant. Gorm was a suitably mean baddy who got his just deserts, and the other characters, such as Runa’s mother Signe, had backstories that made their more unpleasant actions forgivable once it became clear that they faced difficult choices between their heads and their hearts. This is a great story for those who enjoy historical fantasy with a large helping of well-written romance and hint of magic around the edges!
August 5, 2025
In a small Norse village, everyone knows all about each other. Signe, the jarl’s wife, is in love with his rival, Flynn, and her daughter Runa was born from that man. And although the jarl recognizes her as his daughter, Runa grows up without love or appreciation for the hard work she does. She’s like a Viking Cinderella, mistreated by both parents, siblings, and everyone else in the village.
Only two strangers see a beautiful, passionate woman in her. These strangers are enemies and want to fight and kill each other. But they have to maintain the sacred peace during the twelve days of the Summer Solstice Festival. The entire village is infatuated with the magic of the fertility goddess Freya. And Runa is guided by the goddess to love both strangers…
Until the very end, readers don’t know which of the two men is destined to be with Runa, but her life should change for the better.
This story immerses you in a world of simple morals, raw emotions, strong men, and forest beds.
Only two strangers see a beautiful, passionate woman in her. These strangers are enemies and want to fight and kill each other. But they have to maintain the sacred peace during the twelve days of the Summer Solstice Festival. The entire village is infatuated with the magic of the fertility goddess Freya. And Runa is guided by the goddess to love both strangers…
Until the very end, readers don’t know which of the two men is destined to be with Runa, but her life should change for the better.
This story immerses you in a world of simple morals, raw emotions, strong men, and forest beds.
October 9, 2025
Solstice Child by Wendy L. Anderson is a richly woven Viking romantasy filled with Norse mythology, vengeance, and forbidden love. The story follows Runa, a “solstice child” scorned by her family but blessed by the goddess Freya to shape her own fate. Her quiet strength is tested when two men, Brand, a warrior consumed by revenge, and Eiland, a hunted man haunted by his past both fall in love with her. What follows is a tale of passion, destiny, and sacrifice beneath the glow of the summer solstice.
Anderson’s prose is vivid and poetic, capturing both the brutality and beauty of Viking life. The love triangle feels organic and emotionally charged, with real tension and heartache. I loved the balance of romance, mythology, and action, especially the festival scenes and Freya’s subtle presence throughout.
A beautifully written, sensual, and powerful standalone story. Perfect for fans of Vikings and Norse-inspired fantasy romance.
Anderson’s prose is vivid and poetic, capturing both the brutality and beauty of Viking life. The love triangle feels organic and emotionally charged, with real tension and heartache. I loved the balance of romance, mythology, and action, especially the festival scenes and Freya’s subtle presence throughout.
A beautifully written, sensual, and powerful standalone story. Perfect for fans of Vikings and Norse-inspired fantasy romance.
August 8, 2023
"Solstice Child" is a solid fantasy novel that showcases the author's adeptness at crafting characters and evoking sensuality. The world-building is engaging, immersing readers in a realm where magic and reality coexist. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each grappling with their own personal journeys.
Anderson's knack for depicting heartfelt, sensual scenes adds depth to the story, allowing readers to connect with the characters' desires and emotions. The author’s storytelling skills remain evident throughout, making this a recommended read for fans of character-driven fantasy with a touch of sensuality. Overall, "Solstice Child" earns a solid 4.5 star rating for its well-crafted characters and ability to capture poignant moments of connection.
Anderson's knack for depicting heartfelt, sensual scenes adds depth to the story, allowing readers to connect with the characters' desires and emotions. The author’s storytelling skills remain evident throughout, making this a recommended read for fans of character-driven fantasy with a touch of sensuality. Overall, "Solstice Child" earns a solid 4.5 star rating for its well-crafted characters and ability to capture poignant moments of connection.
August 12, 2023
Solstice Child is the latest book by Wendy L. Anderson and what a phenomenal book it is. This is a Viking Romance with a love triangle and is a standalone book.
Overall, I thought it was a great story! It came with some unexpected moments which I refuse to spoil for you all! I love the character development of Runa and Brand, especially Brand, as he grows so much throughout the story. I enjoyed the side character's too and I am always in awe at how the author is able to create such nasty villains!
As always, I love the author's writing style and of course her use of metaphors are just extraordinary *chef's kiss*. I can't wait for her next book. Wendy, if you are reading this... HURRY!
Overall, I thought it was a great story! It came with some unexpected moments which I refuse to spoil for you all! I love the character development of Runa and Brand, especially Brand, as he grows so much throughout the story. I enjoyed the side character's too and I am always in awe at how the author is able to create such nasty villains!
As always, I love the author's writing style and of course her use of metaphors are just extraordinary *chef's kiss*. I can't wait for her next book. Wendy, if you are reading this... HURRY!
June 24, 2023
I enjoyed this book. A young woman born on the solstice living a life of hardship and abuse finds her salvation in the arms of 2 different men. One is older and gives her the ability to choose her destiny. The other, a young man on a quest for vengeance. The only problem is that the younger seeks vengeance on the older man she cares so much about. This book was filled with Viking lore and left me wondering how it was going to finish. I loved the ending and wonder if their story will continue.
November 20, 2025
A classic Viking romance setup with a vengeful hero, a haunted warrior, and a woman caught between them. The love triangle is the central, pulsing heart of the plot, driving the conflict between duty, vengeance, and passion. Anderson's prose is straightforward, focusing on the high-stakes emotional drama against a Norse mythological backdrop. While the character archetypes are familiar, the solstice festival provides an interesting setting for the tense standoff. A quick, engaging read for fans of fated love and bitter rivalries where the heart's choice has life-or-death consequences.
September 28, 2024
A Fascinating Viking Romance
I felt very immersed in the Viking culture while reading this romance and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. There were supernatural elements to the magic of solstice and their gods, which was fascinating. The romance element was steamy and interesting. I read this book in one day- definitely recommend.
I felt very immersed in the Viking culture while reading this romance and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. There were supernatural elements to the magic of solstice and their gods, which was fascinating. The romance element was steamy and interesting. I read this book in one day- definitely recommend.
October 25, 2023
Generally not my style but this book hooked me!
I am not a big “romance” guy But this book really caught my attention and kept my interest throughout the whole book. The characters were engaging and the story was moving along at a fast rate. I highly recommend it.
I am not a big “romance” guy But this book really caught my attention and kept my interest throughout the whole book. The characters were engaging and the story was moving along at a fast rate. I highly recommend it.
August 8, 2023
The synopsis of this book intrigued me so I was excited to read it. It was a quick enough read but I was left disappointed. The execution of the story just was not for me.
October 8, 2024
Wendy L Anderson takes us on Runa’s journey among the Vikings, as she tries to find a better place for herself while dealing with the men who could potentially hold her future in their hands-father, step-father, could-be husbands.
Despite the place a Solstice Child is supposed to have in their community, Runa is ill-treated by most of the people in her life and finds herself wandering further than she is told she should. This starts Runa’s journey to take control of her future.
This was a good read, perfect for Historical Fiction readers and/or fans of Viking Romance.
Despite the place a Solstice Child is supposed to have in their community, Runa is ill-treated by most of the people in her life and finds herself wandering further than she is told she should. This starts Runa’s journey to take control of her future.
This was a good read, perfect for Historical Fiction readers and/or fans of Viking Romance.
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