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The Banished Gods #1
Queen of Swords
They say death is the end.
In my case, it was only the beginning.
Demons killed my family, now I’m waging a one-woman war against the monsters. My count is growing—but so is theirs—as human disappearances increased by the day.
Then the monsters got the better of me.
When I wake up in an infirmary run by a band of immortals, I discover I’m not the only one fighting the demons, and they aren’t very happy I’ve been hunting in their territory.
Note to self: Never get on the bad side of an immortal god, they hold a grudge forever.
Now I’m juggling my demon killing nights with my growing attraction for the sinfully sexy Loki, trying to stay one step ahead of Odin, and out of the reach of Hel, who wants to add me to her collection of souls.
But when Odin and Hel decide to use me as a pawn in their immortal chess match, things get really interesting.
In my case, it was only the beginning.
Demons killed my family, now I’m waging a one-woman war against the monsters. My count is growing—but so is theirs—as human disappearances increased by the day.
Then the monsters got the better of me.
When I wake up in an infirmary run by a band of immortals, I discover I’m not the only one fighting the demons, and they aren’t very happy I’ve been hunting in their territory.
Note to self: Never get on the bad side of an immortal god, they hold a grudge forever.
Now I’m juggling my demon killing nights with my growing attraction for the sinfully sexy Loki, trying to stay one step ahead of Odin, and out of the reach of Hel, who wants to add me to her collection of souls.
But when Odin and Hel decide to use me as a pawn in their immortal chess match, things get really interesting.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
272 people are currently reading
368 people want to read
About the author
L.A. McGinnis
119 books366 followersFueled by black coffee, ice cream and bad nineties music, L.A. McGinnis spends her days writing best-selling steamy fantasies filled with damaged heroes who long to be whole and smart, authentic heroines. A life-long fascination with storytelling inspired her to weave these contemporary tales of legendary fated mates where the princess never needs rescuing, but sometimes the hero does.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 30, 2019
The monsters killed her family, they killed her, too, but now she is back to avenge their deaths. She hadn’t expected to become the prize in the battle between good and evil, but she is. Morgane also never expected to fall for Loki, one of the gods of Asgard, banished to earth to battle the demons slowly destroying the human world. Loki wasn’t prepared for the beautiful warrior or that his own offspring craves her death.
QUEEN OF SWORDS is a firm foundation for a new series that packs a punch with high-velocity action and searing passions. L.A. McGinnis has brought home another great read that paranormal romance lovers are going to want to devour in one sitting!
A headstrong and daring heroine, alone in the world, a demigod turning her insides out and a revelation that gives her more heartbreaking answers to why her family had to die.
Great reading, great characters, a family reunion or two and a smoldering romance to sweeten the deal! PLUS, I am seeing a series that is going to get better with every book!
I received a complimentary copy from L.A. McGinnis!
Series: The Banished Gods - Book 1
Publisher: Fool's Journey Press; 1 edition (February 19, 2019)
Publication Date: February 19, 2019
Genre: Urban Fantasy | Dystopian
Print Length: 280 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
QUEEN OF SWORDS is a firm foundation for a new series that packs a punch with high-velocity action and searing passions. L.A. McGinnis has brought home another great read that paranormal romance lovers are going to want to devour in one sitting!
A headstrong and daring heroine, alone in the world, a demigod turning her insides out and a revelation that gives her more heartbreaking answers to why her family had to die.
Great reading, great characters, a family reunion or two and a smoldering romance to sweeten the deal! PLUS, I am seeing a series that is going to get better with every book!
I received a complimentary copy from L.A. McGinnis!
Series: The Banished Gods - Book 1
Publisher: Fool's Journey Press; 1 edition (February 19, 2019)
Publication Date: February 19, 2019
Genre: Urban Fantasy | Dystopian
Print Length: 280 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Want to read
September 12, 2023🎁 Books 1 & 2 in the Series are Free on Amazon today (4/19/2020)! 🎁
February 25, 2019
How can a book be both gritty and lyrical at the same time? That's the question I asked myself while reading this first book in McGinnis' new series. Loki and Morgane are a perfect match for each other, and any story that deals with ancient Greek gods and magic spells can't be told in just one novel. Even though paranormal isn't my usual reading diet, I found myself holding my breath until I got to the end. But it's not the end. Can't wait for Book Two!
February 27, 2019
I love the premise of this series starter-The gods of Asgard are banished to earth to fight demons. It introduces some delicious alpha males and in this book, a kick-ass heroine who knows how to take punch. Lots of action, adventure and sexy chemistry between Loki and Morgane!
June 25, 2020
After the death of her dad and murder of her sister and mother, Morgane Burke, wants revenge. The monsters that killed her sister and mother were not visible to her at the time. After the monsters took her to the brink of death and modern medical personnel brought her back, Morgane knew who killed her family and vowed to kill each and every one of them. What transpires is an intervention by Loki and his family of trapped gods when Loki discovers the person "hunting" in Odin's territory is mere mortal. Except, Morgane shouldn't be able to see the monsters, let alone kill them, putting a target on her head by Odin, his deal with the Goddess of Death. If only they all knew exactly what the Goddess of Death has in the works with the deadly God of Chaos.
Queen of Swords is an interesting take on Norse mythology with a modern-day twist. I enjoyed the grittiness of the story and the romantic elements. Morgane is a strong character who might be putting her own life in danger but she does it as revenge for the death of her family, and to maybe prevent other families from suffering the same fate. The fact that she goes head-to-head with Odin, Mir, and Hel shows she not only stands up for herself, but that might be a tad bit crazy. :) I mean who goes up against Norse Gods and Goddesses and lives to tell the tale!
Loki and Morgane's attraction is evident but I did find the unfolding of their feels to happen quite rapidly. The romance makes sense but I would have liked to see it grow a little slower. The quick romance didn't detract from the story and actually played a huge part in certain aspects.
The story is fast-paced and pulled me in and kept me thoroughly captivated. Morgane and Loki are wonderful characters and the supporting cast are all great in their own right. I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the setting. The book is full of twists and events I never saw coming. I look forward to the next installment of this thrilling series.
I was provided a copy of this book to read.
Queen of Swords is an interesting take on Norse mythology with a modern-day twist. I enjoyed the grittiness of the story and the romantic elements. Morgane is a strong character who might be putting her own life in danger but she does it as revenge for the death of her family, and to maybe prevent other families from suffering the same fate. The fact that she goes head-to-head with Odin, Mir, and Hel shows she not only stands up for herself, but that might be a tad bit crazy. :) I mean who goes up against Norse Gods and Goddesses and lives to tell the tale!
Loki and Morgane's attraction is evident but I did find the unfolding of their feels to happen quite rapidly. The romance makes sense but I would have liked to see it grow a little slower. The quick romance didn't detract from the story and actually played a huge part in certain aspects.
The story is fast-paced and pulled me in and kept me thoroughly captivated. Morgane and Loki are wonderful characters and the supporting cast are all great in their own right. I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the setting. The book is full of twists and events I never saw coming. I look forward to the next installment of this thrilling series.
I was provided a copy of this book to read.
March 31, 2020
Queen of Swords
R2R (Arc)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
3.5 stars rounded up because I liked the characters.
So what I liked the most about this book was the characters. They all have the respective roles and play them well. Basically this book is about a prophecy, though you don't hear the full of it till about three quarters of the way through. The book starts with the God Odin telling a story to his son Balder. It draws you in wanting to know what will happen. It then flashed pretty far into the future, I'm guessing our present day.
So you have gods, and one human woman hunting demons in the city of chicago. The MC Morgana is one tough cookie. She has been fighting these demons for a couple of years. Started out pretty bad barely surviving the battles, to now she feels she has the hang of it. Though she still gets banged up and is out of commission for a few days. This struck me as an at odds with the character development. She is way better, knows all this self defense and a few martial arts yet still gets badly hurt..So is she totally awesome or kinda ok at what she does.
Then you have Loki, the God Odin hates because he ruined their world and got them banished to earth. It's a long complicated history. There is so much at play in this book. I feel that some was well thought out and others was just thrown in to make you wonder,or just to set you up for the next book. That is what really made me take a star away. I think a little more focus on the subject of this first story line would have been better. I'm all honesty it does not get resolved in this book. It's obviously a ongoing theme.
I have so many questions...So much was given yet little was fully explained. I did enjoy this book. It has a lot of action, and a few romance scenes. I just really like some questions to be answered, and this book did little of that for me. So that was a full star off for me. There were a few grammar issues but not. It was really just a word missing from a sentence, it happened a few times.
R2R (Arc)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
3.5 stars rounded up because I liked the characters.
So what I liked the most about this book was the characters. They all have the respective roles and play them well. Basically this book is about a prophecy, though you don't hear the full of it till about three quarters of the way through. The book starts with the God Odin telling a story to his son Balder. It draws you in wanting to know what will happen. It then flashed pretty far into the future, I'm guessing our present day.
So you have gods, and one human woman hunting demons in the city of chicago. The MC Morgana is one tough cookie. She has been fighting these demons for a couple of years. Started out pretty bad barely surviving the battles, to now she feels she has the hang of it. Though she still gets banged up and is out of commission for a few days. This struck me as an at odds with the character development. She is way better, knows all this self defense and a few martial arts yet still gets badly hurt..So is she totally awesome or kinda ok at what she does.
Then you have Loki, the God Odin hates because he ruined their world and got them banished to earth. It's a long complicated history. There is so much at play in this book. I feel that some was well thought out and others was just thrown in to make you wonder,or just to set you up for the next book. That is what really made me take a star away. I think a little more focus on the subject of this first story line would have been better. I'm all honesty it does not get resolved in this book. It's obviously a ongoing theme.
I have so many questions...So much was given yet little was fully explained. I did enjoy this book. It has a lot of action, and a few romance scenes. I just really like some questions to be answered, and this book did little of that for me. So that was a full star off for me. There were a few grammar issues but not. It was really just a word missing from a sentence, it happened a few times.
September 22, 2020
This book is a quick read and will help pass the time if you can get past the first chapter.
I gave this 2 out of 5 stars.
Loki and the other Gods have been banished to earth where they have been tasked with protecting humans from hordes of demons sent by Hel, Loki’s daughter.
Morgane, a human, devotes her life to killing demons after her mother and sister are killed in a vicious demonic attack. She is later discovered by Loki seriously injured after battling some demons. He saves her life and the story continues as they band together to stop Hel from destroying the world. The story has various twists and turns that involve a few other Gods and demigods.
I gave this book 2 stars. The opening chapter did little to move the plot forward and was tedious to read. The real action begins with Chapter Two. An injured Morgane returns home to clean her wounds after a grueling battle with demons. Since humans are unable to see demons, Loki is surprised to discover that a human girl has been killing demons. They are immediately attracted to each other and have a physical relationship later followed by declarations of love.
I found this book disappointing for several reasons. The characters, Morgane, Loki’s love interest, and Hel, Loki’s daughter, are severely underdeveloped. These two characters are important to the plot and theme. Morgane’s character was static throughout and her character never evolved past the angry girl who lost her mother and sister. An explanation of Hel’s sadistic nature would have helped understand her fascination with torture. The lack of character development left the plot severely handicapped. Additionally, the love affair between Morgane and Loki falls flat and seems “glued together” as an afterthought. There was no buildup that one expects of a successful romance. Finally the story as a whole lacked originality. Plots based on Gods such as Loki and Odin are common themes in many paranormal books.
I gave this 2 out of 5 stars.
Loki and the other Gods have been banished to earth where they have been tasked with protecting humans from hordes of demons sent by Hel, Loki’s daughter.
Morgane, a human, devotes her life to killing demons after her mother and sister are killed in a vicious demonic attack. She is later discovered by Loki seriously injured after battling some demons. He saves her life and the story continues as they band together to stop Hel from destroying the world. The story has various twists and turns that involve a few other Gods and demigods.
I gave this book 2 stars. The opening chapter did little to move the plot forward and was tedious to read. The real action begins with Chapter Two. An injured Morgane returns home to clean her wounds after a grueling battle with demons. Since humans are unable to see demons, Loki is surprised to discover that a human girl has been killing demons. They are immediately attracted to each other and have a physical relationship later followed by declarations of love.
I found this book disappointing for several reasons. The characters, Morgane, Loki’s love interest, and Hel, Loki’s daughter, are severely underdeveloped. These two characters are important to the plot and theme. Morgane’s character was static throughout and her character never evolved past the angry girl who lost her mother and sister. An explanation of Hel’s sadistic nature would have helped understand her fascination with torture. The lack of character development left the plot severely handicapped. Additionally, the love affair between Morgane and Loki falls flat and seems “glued together” as an afterthought. There was no buildup that one expects of a successful romance. Finally the story as a whole lacked originality. Plots based on Gods such as Loki and Odin are common themes in many paranormal books.
August 27, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this novel.
The pacing was excellent, with enough description to visualise the setting, but not so much that it interfered with the action scenes. I am not overly familiar with Norse mythology, so I would have appreciated more background information about the pantheon and the affinities of each Deity.
The character development was generally good, but there were some gaps for me. I thought the Deities were rather human, all things considered, and I'm not entirely sure what they are capable of or where they're limited. I thought Morgane was a well-developed character, although some elements did stretch my credulity a bit. Overall, I thought the characters' reactions to trauma were trivialised, and I think this would have been a very interesting element to explore.
There were some mistakes in the novel that niggle at me. Some mix-ups (horde/hoard, conscious/conscience), but also a logic error (not believing in coincidence and a belief in fate/destiny amount to the same thing), and I was confused about how long the Gods had been confined to Earth (there were several figures bandied about and I wasn't clear if one was specific to their time in Chicago or if it related to the plane of existence).
Still this is a solid start to a series. I would definitely be interested in reading more about these characters.
I received a copy of this novel through Voracious Readers Only.
The pacing was excellent, with enough description to visualise the setting, but not so much that it interfered with the action scenes. I am not overly familiar with Norse mythology, so I would have appreciated more background information about the pantheon and the affinities of each Deity.
The character development was generally good, but there were some gaps for me. I thought the Deities were rather human, all things considered, and I'm not entirely sure what they are capable of or where they're limited. I thought Morgane was a well-developed character, although some elements did stretch my credulity a bit. Overall, I thought the characters' reactions to trauma were trivialised, and I think this would have been a very interesting element to explore.
There were some mistakes in the novel that niggle at me. Some mix-ups (horde/hoard, conscious/conscience), but also a logic error (not believing in coincidence and a belief in fate/destiny amount to the same thing), and I was confused about how long the Gods had been confined to Earth (there were several figures bandied about and I wasn't clear if one was specific to their time in Chicago or if it related to the plane of existence).
Still this is a solid start to a series. I would definitely be interested in reading more about these characters.
I received a copy of this novel through Voracious Readers Only.
October 2, 2023
Three and a half
The idea of Norse Gods being banished to Earth to save it from Demons was an original one for me. Although Odin seemed to be the only one who hates Loki for being tricked and causing their plight. If you know anything about Norse mythology than you will remember that their family dynamics were extremely complicated and this plays into that idea pretty well.
Morgane moved to Chicago when her mother and sister were killed there by hideous creatures that for some reason only she can see. She's frequently hurt but has trained hard to rid the city of the monsters but it's almost as if they are targeting her. When Morgane is found dying by Loki he cannot help himself and is desperate to save her no matter the cost. However the penalty of saving the human opens a whole new can of worms and maybe there's a reason that Morgane's family were targeted ?
This was an enjoyable read although at times a little disjointed. I enjoyed reading about the Gods and their complicated relationships and mission. I particularly enjoyed that the author used the bizarre family dynamics to make Loki more understandable. I think that the last third or so brings interesting revelations about a prophecy and just how Morgane is targeted. What I didn't particularly buy into sadly was the romance as everything just seemed too instant for me but clearly that's a personal thing. I might be tempted to read the next book though as I think it's Fenrir and he is a very interesting character.
The idea of Norse Gods being banished to Earth to save it from Demons was an original one for me. Although Odin seemed to be the only one who hates Loki for being tricked and causing their plight. If you know anything about Norse mythology than you will remember that their family dynamics were extremely complicated and this plays into that idea pretty well.
Morgane moved to Chicago when her mother and sister were killed there by hideous creatures that for some reason only she can see. She's frequently hurt but has trained hard to rid the city of the monsters but it's almost as if they are targeting her. When Morgane is found dying by Loki he cannot help himself and is desperate to save her no matter the cost. However the penalty of saving the human opens a whole new can of worms and maybe there's a reason that Morgane's family were targeted ?
This was an enjoyable read although at times a little disjointed. I enjoyed reading about the Gods and their complicated relationships and mission. I particularly enjoyed that the author used the bizarre family dynamics to make Loki more understandable. I think that the last third or so brings interesting revelations about a prophecy and just how Morgane is targeted. What I didn't particularly buy into sadly was the romance as everything just seemed too instant for me but clearly that's a personal thing. I might be tempted to read the next book though as I think it's Fenrir and he is a very interesting character.
January 3, 2020
Morgane lost her mother and sister to demons two years ago and she died twice before they were able to stabilize her. Since her attack she can see demons and sold everything in order to spend the rest of her life hunting and killing demons. She's a tough, kick ass woman and nothing is going to stop her from wiping demons from the earth. I loved her strength and willingness to keep fighting for those she cares about.
Loki and the other gods were banished to earth after he destroyed Asgard. While the gods live together and hunt Hel's demons to protect Midgaard, they aren't happy about it. Chicago is their territory and when they discover someone else killing the demons they are determined to hunt down the trespasser.
Loki can't believe Morgaine is human, certain she isn't what she claims to be, but he's drawn to her and defies Odin to protect her. When Odin punishes Loki she offers to do anything to get him freed and it sends her into Hel's domain, triggering the legend that might mean the end of the world.
This story is an interesting urban fantasy, but the romance isn't as strong and there are some editing issues. Loki spends a good chunk of the time threatening her but some unknown feeling of connection pulls them together. It makes the romance seem a bit forced.
If you like my reviews I hope you will follow my blog. https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
Loki and the other gods were banished to earth after he destroyed Asgard. While the gods live together and hunt Hel's demons to protect Midgaard, they aren't happy about it. Chicago is their territory and when they discover someone else killing the demons they are determined to hunt down the trespasser.
Loki can't believe Morgaine is human, certain she isn't what she claims to be, but he's drawn to her and defies Odin to protect her. When Odin punishes Loki she offers to do anything to get him freed and it sends her into Hel's domain, triggering the legend that might mean the end of the world.
This story is an interesting urban fantasy, but the romance isn't as strong and there are some editing issues. Loki spends a good chunk of the time threatening her but some unknown feeling of connection pulls them together. It makes the romance seem a bit forced.
If you like my reviews I hope you will follow my blog. https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2023
What I found most appealing about this book were the characters—they all embraced their respective roles and played them with finesse. The narrative revolves around a prophecy, gradually unveiling itself about three-quarters of the way through. It starts with the God Odin narrating a tale to his son Balder.
The story then leaps into the future, presumably our present day, featuring gods and a human woman hunting demons in Chicago. The protagonist, Morgana, proves herself as one tough cookie, having battled demons for years. Despite her improved skills and knowledge of self-defense and martial arts, the inconsistency in her character development struck me.
Enter Loki, the god despised by Odin for ruining their world and leading to their banishment to Earth. The intricate history adds depth to the narrative, but the story feels cluttered, with some aspects well-thought-out while others seem thrown in to create intrigue or set the stage for the next book.
Despite the unanswered questions and unresolved plot points, I did enjoy the book. The abundance of action and a sprinkling of romance scenes kept me engaged. However, a bit more clarity and resolution would have enhanced the overall experience.
The story then leaps into the future, presumably our present day, featuring gods and a human woman hunting demons in Chicago. The protagonist, Morgana, proves herself as one tough cookie, having battled demons for years. Despite her improved skills and knowledge of self-defense and martial arts, the inconsistency in her character development struck me.
Enter Loki, the god despised by Odin for ruining their world and leading to their banishment to Earth. The intricate history adds depth to the narrative, but the story feels cluttered, with some aspects well-thought-out while others seem thrown in to create intrigue or set the stage for the next book.
Despite the unanswered questions and unresolved plot points, I did enjoy the book. The abundance of action and a sprinkling of romance scenes kept me engaged. However, a bit more clarity and resolution would have enhanced the overall experience.
April 9, 2020
I read the description and thought this book would be exactly the kind I would enjoy. A mystery that involves the Norse pantheon in modern day Chicago joining with a kickass heroine to fight demons. All the makings of a fun urban fantasy. In actuality, it was a somewhat disappointing read.
The Nordic mythology was skewed, with Loki as the misunderstood hero and Odin and Hel as the villians. While the author humanizes the gods, the dynamic between them is inexplicable and strange.
In fact, none of the characters come to life, remaining caricatures that were difficult to relate to and their interpersonal dynamics are confusing.
The story mentions a hodgepodge of supernatural beings, such as the fae, that are never fully integrated into the storyline.
The action built quickly in the beginning and gradually petered out, dragging and becoming repetitive.
The mystery of who Morgana and Avalon are (and why their names refer to the legend of Camelot)
will presumably be answered as the series goes on. That may be enough to get me to read the next book in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book. I am leaving my honest review.
The Nordic mythology was skewed, with Loki as the misunderstood hero and Odin and Hel as the villians. While the author humanizes the gods, the dynamic between them is inexplicable and strange.
In fact, none of the characters come to life, remaining caricatures that were difficult to relate to and their interpersonal dynamics are confusing.
The story mentions a hodgepodge of supernatural beings, such as the fae, that are never fully integrated into the storyline.
The action built quickly in the beginning and gradually petered out, dragging and becoming repetitive.
The mystery of who Morgana and Avalon are (and why their names refer to the legend of Camelot)
will presumably be answered as the series goes on. That may be enough to get me to read the next book in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book. I am leaving my honest review.
December 27, 2023
This book burned my Kindle!
** Cliffhanger-ish Warning! ** Oh my gods! Well, technically they're some of the Norse pantheon... I LOVE this book! It's a non-stop action-packed battle of good and evil. Plus there's a hot romance, a heroine who hunts demons, a better version of Loki, and a few moments of comic relief. I enjoyed the constant suspense and the overall mysteries!
Why were only some of the gods sent to Midgard? Where are the others? Which big bad is really the big bad, or are there too many villains to mention in this first part of the series?
I love this version of Loki! He is less of a troublemaker than in the myths, but he's still quite wily. Morgane is relatable and easy to identify with as she battles her internal demons as well as The Grim - demons from Hel (the goddess and the afterlife realm).
This story was so intense that it was hard to put down! I'm always amazed by LA McGinnis' writing style, character development, and plot twists. I'm super excited to see what happens next!
Lots of typos, but nothing too distracting.
** Cliffhanger-ish Warning! ** Oh my gods! Well, technically they're some of the Norse pantheon... I LOVE this book! It's a non-stop action-packed battle of good and evil. Plus there's a hot romance, a heroine who hunts demons, a better version of Loki, and a few moments of comic relief. I enjoyed the constant suspense and the overall mysteries!
Why were only some of the gods sent to Midgard? Where are the others? Which big bad is really the big bad, or are there too many villains to mention in this first part of the series?
I love this version of Loki! He is less of a troublemaker than in the myths, but he's still quite wily. Morgane is relatable and easy to identify with as she battles her internal demons as well as The Grim - demons from Hel (the goddess and the afterlife realm).
This story was so intense that it was hard to put down! I'm always amazed by LA McGinnis' writing style, character development, and plot twists. I'm super excited to see what happens next!
Lots of typos, but nothing too distracting.
August 14, 2019
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This had a very cool and interesting concept and if you’re into Viking mythology, this might be a good book for you. The gods have been banished from Asgard to earth, and are fighting a war against Hel’s demons that are currently munching on and killing the humans on earth. They gods find out they’re not the only ones fighting demons when they chance upon Morgane Burke, who is trying to avenge the death of her family. Morgane quickly becomes entangled with Loki, in more ways then 1, and finds herself to be a pawn in a deadly game Odin is playing. The fate of earth and the universes in between are in Morgane’s hands since she must go to hell and back, literally.
This book has some steamy bits, an interesting storyline with cool players. The emotion though between the characters seems a bit forced though, it wasn’t as believable as it should be. That being said though, I’ve set my sights on the second in the series and am excited to read it
This had a very cool and interesting concept and if you’re into Viking mythology, this might be a good book for you. The gods have been banished from Asgard to earth, and are fighting a war against Hel’s demons that are currently munching on and killing the humans on earth. They gods find out they’re not the only ones fighting demons when they chance upon Morgane Burke, who is trying to avenge the death of her family. Morgane quickly becomes entangled with Loki, in more ways then 1, and finds herself to be a pawn in a deadly game Odin is playing. The fate of earth and the universes in between are in Morgane’s hands since she must go to hell and back, literally.
This book has some steamy bits, an interesting storyline with cool players. The emotion though between the characters seems a bit forced though, it wasn’t as believable as it should be. That being said though, I’ve set my sights on the second in the series and am excited to read it
July 31, 2019
What an adventure! I really enjoyed this story; it was captivating and a page turner. This story has everything, romance, adventure, revenge, murder, passion, paranormal aspects and wonderful characters.
This is book one in a series and it is a complete story, yet you’ll want to read more. I could not stop reading this story. I was so connected to the story and the characters that I was rooting out load for them, talking to them, and yelling at them (at certain times). I was involved! The main character is headstrong and sassy, she doesn’t back down and knows who she is. I like that she can stand on her own, it makes the romance and action that much more enjoyable as I can see she doesn’t “need” it but chooses it.
The use of Asgard and mythology was great and I really loved how it played out in this book. It was a fresh way to view the same old stories. This book is the ride of a lifetime and I cannot wait to read book two. Great Read! Off to book two… 4.5 stars.
This is book one in a series and it is a complete story, yet you’ll want to read more. I could not stop reading this story. I was so connected to the story and the characters that I was rooting out load for them, talking to them, and yelling at them (at certain times). I was involved! The main character is headstrong and sassy, she doesn’t back down and knows who she is. I like that she can stand on her own, it makes the romance and action that much more enjoyable as I can see she doesn’t “need” it but chooses it.
The use of Asgard and mythology was great and I really loved how it played out in this book. It was a fresh way to view the same old stories. This book is the ride of a lifetime and I cannot wait to read book two. Great Read! Off to book two… 4.5 stars.
May 27, 2020
The gods must be angry
From the first chapter:
"Lifting his eyes to the bowl of stars overhead, Loki cursed, sensing the impatience of the immortal god waiting outside. He should have known better than to put off the inevitable. Should have known these few moments of quiet would be cut short, especially since he was perfectly comfortable exactly where he was. Healing from a night spent out on the streets."
Admittedly, I may have just quarantine-binged the Avengers movies, and perhaps my mental image of Odin, Thor, Hel, and Loki was already primed. Fenrir? Thank J. K. for that one.
Am I, possibly, probably, in geek love with this book?
Absolutely. Mythology, badassery, and erotic moments wind together on the shores of Lake Michigan and depths of Hell for an entrancing tale. I downloaded the second book before finishing the first to ensure no delay in my reading.
I received a copy of the book for review purposes.
From the first chapter:
"Lifting his eyes to the bowl of stars overhead, Loki cursed, sensing the impatience of the immortal god waiting outside. He should have known better than to put off the inevitable. Should have known these few moments of quiet would be cut short, especially since he was perfectly comfortable exactly where he was. Healing from a night spent out on the streets."
Admittedly, I may have just quarantine-binged the Avengers movies, and perhaps my mental image of Odin, Thor, Hel, and Loki was already primed. Fenrir? Thank J. K. for that one.
Am I, possibly, probably, in geek love with this book?
Absolutely. Mythology, badassery, and erotic moments wind together on the shores of Lake Michigan and depths of Hell for an entrancing tale. I downloaded the second book before finishing the first to ensure no delay in my reading.
I received a copy of the book for review purposes.
May 31, 2020
The monsters had killed her entire family and no one else could see the monsters but her...or so she thought. One hunting mission gone wrong and next thing she knows, she's fighting along Norse gods and finding herself in the middle of a war she never realized she was fighting.
This book is a nice change of pace. It's like after Thor: Ragnarok meets mafia romance story. The old world is gone and the Norse gods are living on earth trying to fight a war that humankind doesn't even know existed with the exception of Morgane, our leading female character. This book also gives a bit more love to the often villain of a story, Loki, the leading male character.
Read about their journey through war, revenge, world domination and love. Never thought having in-laws could be bad. Looks like Morgane got short-end of the stick because it seems the universe is out to kill her at any cost.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is a nice change of pace. It's like after Thor: Ragnarok meets mafia romance story. The old world is gone and the Norse gods are living on earth trying to fight a war that humankind doesn't even know existed with the exception of Morgane, our leading female character. This book also gives a bit more love to the often villain of a story, Loki, the leading male character.
Read about their journey through war, revenge, world domination and love. Never thought having in-laws could be bad. Looks like Morgane got short-end of the stick because it seems the universe is out to kill her at any cost.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 25, 2021
Wasn’t the worst
I gave it two stars only because I actually finished this book, and it wasn’t the worst book I’ve ever read.
My main problem is insta-sex and insta-love that happen in this book.
MC gets horrifically injured, has her back shredded so bad that she nearly died and needed to be stitched up, and then the next day is on her back having sex with a stranger she just met. There’s no way you’re going to be on your back saying how much you want sex, that you need to have sex so bad when you just had to get stitches to stitch up deep lacerations that were on you back.
I don’t really like how any of the characters are written, I don’t think there’s much character growth, and generally just didn’t connect with the book or anyone in the book. Everything was just too easy
I gave it two stars only because I actually finished this book, and it wasn’t the worst book I’ve ever read.
My main problem is insta-sex and insta-love that happen in this book.
MC gets horrifically injured, has her back shredded so bad that she nearly died and needed to be stitched up, and then the next day is on her back having sex with a stranger she just met. There’s no way you’re going to be on your back saying how much you want sex, that you need to have sex so bad when you just had to get stitches to stitch up deep lacerations that were on you back.
I don’t really like how any of the characters are written, I don’t think there’s much character growth, and generally just didn’t connect with the book or anyone in the book. Everything was just too easy
February 21, 2022
An amazing start
Queen of Swords is book 1 with a gripping story. It includes Norse mythology and is set in Chicago. There is so much maneuvering and double crossing, it is hard to know who to trust or what the real end game is. I look forward to reading book 2 to find out more.
The relationship between Morgane and Loki feels fated from the beginning. Even when it would be smart to walk away they don't. It was pulled in from the beginning and the story only pulled me in deeper as it went on.
I enjoyed the supporting characters and not quite knowing what is going on. The story ended on a satisfying end note, but with the knowledge that there is so much more to come.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Queen of Swords is book 1 with a gripping story. It includes Norse mythology and is set in Chicago. There is so much maneuvering and double crossing, it is hard to know who to trust or what the real end game is. I look forward to reading book 2 to find out more.
The relationship between Morgane and Loki feels fated from the beginning. Even when it would be smart to walk away they don't. It was pulled in from the beginning and the story only pulled me in deeper as it went on.
I enjoyed the supporting characters and not quite knowing what is going on. The story ended on a satisfying end note, but with the knowledge that there is so much more to come.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 1, 2020
Morgane is after revenge on the creatures that killed her family, in the process she meets Loki who saves her life. Loki is a god who along with other gods have been banished to earth. Morgane is drawn into the gods war with the demons and the Goddess of Death. But they both begin to find something in each other they had never dreamed of having....love!
This is the first book in the series so as well as the main story line between Morgane and Loki there is a lot of background info on the gods and how they were banished to earth. This book comes with constant action and plenty of romance. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
This is the first book in the series so as well as the main story line between Morgane and Loki there is a lot of background info on the gods and how they were banished to earth. This book comes with constant action and plenty of romance. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.
July 13, 2020
An incredible read that had me hooked from the very beginning. A tale of immortals living along side of mere mortals. Morgane is a human that is fighting demons on a nightly basis. Her activities draw the attention of Loki and the other immortals. Morgane and Loki are sucked into a world of revenge and power.
Truly enjoyed reading about Norse mythology. It was well written, with humor, tragedy and romance. Was rooting for the good guys. Left me wondering what else is in store for the immortals of Chicago. Great intro into the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Truly enjoyed reading about Norse mythology. It was well written, with humor, tragedy and romance. Was rooting for the good guys. Left me wondering what else is in store for the immortals of Chicago. Great intro into the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 18, 2020
Great read from start to finish with a great new take on old gods. Loki is fighting a war against demons with the rest of the gods banished from Asgard when he comes upon a dying human woman who has also been fighting the demons. Morgane fights against the demons responsible for killing her family when she finds herself in over her head. The action and mystery mixed in with a love story makes for a great story that is hard to put down.
I received this book as an arc and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received this book as an arc and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 7, 2022
An introduction to Morgane
Morgan Burke may not have a death wish but with her entire family gone, she is definitely more interested in killing demons than preserving her own life. There's lots of action in this first book of the Banished God's series, some romance and some bed breaking heat. You may feel Morgane needs a Cher "Snap out of it!" slap from Moonstruck for some of the risks she takes but it's never boring. I'd call this a Happy for Now ending, there's a lot more of this tale to be told and reading Ruined King first would be a good idea but it's not absolutely necessary.
Morgan Burke may not have a death wish but with her entire family gone, she is definitely more interested in killing demons than preserving her own life. There's lots of action in this first book of the Banished God's series, some romance and some bed breaking heat. You may feel Morgane needs a Cher "Snap out of it!" slap from Moonstruck for some of the risks she takes but it's never boring. I'd call this a Happy for Now ending, there's a lot more of this tale to be told and reading Ruined King first would be a good idea but it's not absolutely necessary.
July 22, 2019
Queen of Swords
Morgane is a great fighter being a mortal who should not be able to see the demons. She has been fighting them for 2 years before the GODS even knew about her. Loki came across where she had killed a couple of them and was searching for her. She let her guard down and they attacked her when she didn't have her swords but Loki ended up being in the area at the right time.
Morgane is a great fighter being a mortal who should not be able to see the demons. She has been fighting them for 2 years before the GODS even knew about her. Loki came across where she had killed a couple of them and was searching for her. She let her guard down and they attacked her when she didn't have her swords but Loki ended up being in the area at the right time.
May 17, 2020
I received a free ARC of this novel via Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review. My opinion is my own.
Do you like Norse mythology and steamy romances? If so, this series should be right up your alley. Norse gods have been banished to . They have been tasked with protecting human from invisible demons that only the gods can see. However, someone is killing these demons besides them! The story line is solid and kept me coming back for more. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Do you like Norse mythology and steamy romances? If so, this series should be right up your alley. Norse gods have been banished to . They have been tasked with protecting human from invisible demons that only the gods can see. However, someone is killing these demons besides them! The story line is solid and kept me coming back for more. I can't wait to see what happens next!
May 25, 2020
little fuzzy on all the whys n wherefores, was a little while back that I read this one. urban fantasy/revenge story. then the old gods show up. I remember liking it a bunch. then there's some romance, which typically puts me off. this one didn't, nor did it come off excessively gratuitous. then the story gets bigger, without seeming excessively absurd. all in all, a moving story as I recall.
June 7, 2019
This was the first book I read of this author and I can definitely see myself reading more! This was a well paced, intriguing read. I loved the mythology and overall plot . The characters are really well developed and Loki and Morgane are so amazing together, the chemistry between the two main characters is delicious. With a kick ass heroine, sexy alphas all around, evil Asgardians, epic battles , tragic pasts and mysteries to unfold, I am looking forward to reading what happens next.
June 4, 2019
I quite enjoyed this book. Loved Morgane’s kick arse character. I Was a little puzzled by the change in Norse mythology but I suppose that’s artistic license. Also never found out how the title is linked to the story
July 28, 2019
this was a really great book! she came to get revenge but discovers a secret . now she is in so much danger. not even her new found friend can help her from someone taking her soul. you must read to find out what happens.
April 25, 2020
I enjoyed it, I liked the characters but, I struggled to follow why she was demon hunting and how she kept surviving. I understand some world building was needed to set up the series but an explanation on who Ava and Morgane actually are would be an enormous help!
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