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Berja
“They will make you a mother of monsters . . .”
A village built on ancient promise. A woman destined to run.
The old ways are crumbling. Every spring, a new sacrifice is chosen—a Spring Maid bred to
seed the future of the village through a ritual before being led to the foreboding woods. But this
season will mark the end of a barbaric tradition and the birth of something even more horrifying.
There’s a war coming—one of gods and giants. The Spring Maid has been chosen by a force far greater than her to be the mother of great warriors.
Destiny has forged a path of bloodshed, and she is the center of it all, willingly or not.
But she is no Spring Maid, no sacrifice to be made.
She is Berja.
A village built on ancient promise. A woman destined to run.
The old ways are crumbling. Every spring, a new sacrifice is chosen—a Spring Maid bred to
seed the future of the village through a ritual before being led to the foreboding woods. But this
season will mark the end of a barbaric tradition and the birth of something even more horrifying.
There’s a war coming—one of gods and giants. The Spring Maid has been chosen by a force far greater than her to be the mother of great warriors.
Destiny has forged a path of bloodshed, and she is the center of it all, willingly or not.
But she is no Spring Maid, no sacrifice to be made.
She is Berja.
102 pages, Paperback
Published January 27, 2024
About the author
J.K. Divia
5 books97 followersJ.K Divia is a dark fantasy, mythological horror, and contemporary paranormal author whose work is inspired by folklore, selkie lore, witches, and world mythology. Through her stories, she brings readers on emotional journeys that explore loss, resilience, and transformation.
When not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, chasing after her kids.
When not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, chasing after her kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
December 8, 2023
I am a huge fan of my own writing :)
February 6, 2024
I listened to the audio book & I think the narrator is very talented.
J.K. writes in a very poetic fashion where her words slowly drift across you like a warm spring breeze. The style in which she crafts her stories makes you feel deeply moved by her words. She just has a way of creating emotions that jump off the page. This story was a very quick, easy read. It's the type most could knock out on a lazy afternoon reading session. It is heavily based on Norse folklore & mythology, which is something that interests me, but I'm not as versed in as Greek mythology.
The story focuses on a spring maid's journey to help her village & to transform her life into more than just a destined path headed down to her by her elders. It's a story about finding one's identity, breaking the mold, taking chances, loving both the families chosen & given to you. It's about one girl embracing love & fighting for motherhood to the children she takes in & the ones born to her.
There's beauty in her writing style, but at times, I feel like I want more detail to understand the full scope of everything. I know many believe less is more, but I'm the type who believes more is more, so give me more. Part of it is likely my lack of background in the mythology, so I miss small details. The story offers a lot to enjoy, but I feel it needs just a little more fullness to be a complete homerun. I'd give this story 4.5 stars. If you enjoy folklore, stories of struggling for balance in motherhood, & deeply emotional poetic books, I highly recommend this book & anything else J.K. writes because you will love her writing.
J.K. writes in a very poetic fashion where her words slowly drift across you like a warm spring breeze. The style in which she crafts her stories makes you feel deeply moved by her words. She just has a way of creating emotions that jump off the page. This story was a very quick, easy read. It's the type most could knock out on a lazy afternoon reading session. It is heavily based on Norse folklore & mythology, which is something that interests me, but I'm not as versed in as Greek mythology.
The story focuses on a spring maid's journey to help her village & to transform her life into more than just a destined path headed down to her by her elders. It's a story about finding one's identity, breaking the mold, taking chances, loving both the families chosen & given to you. It's about one girl embracing love & fighting for motherhood to the children she takes in & the ones born to her.
There's beauty in her writing style, but at times, I feel like I want more detail to understand the full scope of everything. I know many believe less is more, but I'm the type who believes more is more, so give me more. Part of it is likely my lack of background in the mythology, so I miss small details. The story offers a lot to enjoy, but I feel it needs just a little more fullness to be a complete homerun. I'd give this story 4.5 stars. If you enjoy folklore, stories of struggling for balance in motherhood, & deeply emotional poetic books, I highly recommend this book & anything else J.K. writes because you will love her writing.
January 3, 2024
This is definitely a short and easy read in the sense that I read it all in one sitting. It felt like a campfire story that I would have heard when I was younger. I struggled a little to identify with the main character which impacted my enjoyment of the story but objectively it was a very well written and well plotted story.
March 13, 2026
Wow…..dark, haunting, atmospheric…..fun read if you enjoy folklore, mythology, and fairytale type stories. This fantasy novella is a quick, easy read that explores themes of motherhood, family, power and responsibility as the main character pursues love and freedom. I really enjoyed it.
February 11, 2026
This was such a beautifully written story! The words and descriptions were almost lyrical and painted such a beautiful and at times heartbreaking story. If you're looking for something different than a lot of the mainstream writing styles we see I definitely suggest taking the time to check this one out.
June 5, 2024
”They will make you a mother of monsters..”🩸
Berja is my introduction to J.K. Divia’s work and I have to say I’m excited to dive into others.
This novella is based in Norse legend, and reads just like the fables and myths of old. I personally had never heard of the hamrammr and loved the rabbit hole that led me down.
This isn’t your typical HEA and there are so many lessons our main characters have to learn. The importance of love and family. With great power comes great responsibility. Balance in all things. I loved that the consequences of the choices that were made were not just swept under rug with a convenient deus ex machina.
If you’re a lover of fairytales, mythology, and legends, then Berja is for you. It’s also on Kindle Unlimited!
Berja is my introduction to J.K. Divia’s work and I have to say I’m excited to dive into others.
This novella is based in Norse legend, and reads just like the fables and myths of old. I personally had never heard of the hamrammr and loved the rabbit hole that led me down.
This isn’t your typical HEA and there are so many lessons our main characters have to learn. The importance of love and family. With great power comes great responsibility. Balance in all things. I loved that the consequences of the choices that were made were not just swept under rug with a convenient deus ex machina.
If you’re a lover of fairytales, mythology, and legends, then Berja is for you. It’s also on Kindle Unlimited!
February 5, 2024
(~3.25 rounded down to a 3)
Berja by J.K Divia is a dark fantasy short story with horror elements.
It's definitely reminiscent of folklore, as it's inspired by Norse gods. I've seen other reviewers compare this book listening to stories around a campfire, and that is a very apt description.
I read this in bits and pieces due to my busy schedule, but if I had a free afternoon I would have absolutely read this in one sitting. It is under 100 pages and the prose is easy to read and understand.
While I didn't fully identify with the main character, I still felt for what she was going through. Part of me wonders if we got some flashbacks to Berja's time growing up as a Spring Maid, maybe I would have been able to identify with her a bit more.
The illustrations in this novella are GORGEOUS. I'm not sure who created them, but I really enjoyed them.
I received a copy of this book to review. Thank you to Verse Ventures Book Tours for the complimentary ebook. All opinions contained herein are my own.
If you want to see more from me, check out my blog, Bookstagram, TheStoryGraph, or Twitter.
Berja by J.K Divia is a dark fantasy short story with horror elements.
It's definitely reminiscent of folklore, as it's inspired by Norse gods. I've seen other reviewers compare this book listening to stories around a campfire, and that is a very apt description.
I read this in bits and pieces due to my busy schedule, but if I had a free afternoon I would have absolutely read this in one sitting. It is under 100 pages and the prose is easy to read and understand.
While I didn't fully identify with the main character, I still felt for what she was going through. Part of me wonders if we got some flashbacks to Berja's time growing up as a Spring Maid, maybe I would have been able to identify with her a bit more.
The illustrations in this novella are GORGEOUS. I'm not sure who created them, but I really enjoyed them.
I received a copy of this book to review. Thank you to Verse Ventures Book Tours for the complimentary ebook. All opinions contained herein are my own.
If you want to see more from me, check out my blog, Bookstagram, TheStoryGraph, or Twitter.
February 4, 2024
If you’re looking for the perfect bone-chilling novella that will have you transported to being around a campfire and listening to spooky folklore stories- look no further.
Berja is the perfect quick read for those looking for a dip into some dark fantasty inspired by Norse gods. This was so intriguing and moves quite fast, as with most folklore the overall “lesson” that is taught throughout is pretty obvious and straightforward. I loved the balance of wanting better for the future but how overreaching and upheaval can quickly bring demise.
Honestly this was a great novella that felt like the best fever dream and is perfection for a cold night snuggled up by a fire with a warm drink. It could spark some amazing Bookclub discussions or buddy read chats if you wanted to get really deep with it.
Berja is the perfect quick read for those looking for a dip into some dark fantasty inspired by Norse gods. This was so intriguing and moves quite fast, as with most folklore the overall “lesson” that is taught throughout is pretty obvious and straightforward. I loved the balance of wanting better for the future but how overreaching and upheaval can quickly bring demise.
Honestly this was a great novella that felt like the best fever dream and is perfection for a cold night snuggled up by a fire with a warm drink. It could spark some amazing Bookclub discussions or buddy read chats if you wanted to get really deep with it.
March 8, 2026
✨Another favorite indie author , J.K. Divia , added to the auto-read list - if you like folklore stories, norse mythology, tinged with horror….this is a book for you. ✨
Berja is a dark, masterfully crafted novella that follows the Spring Maid, raised apart with the sole purpose to serve her people by producing another sacrificial Spring Maid destined to live alone and apart to appease the forest gods. However, this Spring Maid will not lay down to the whims of the gods and instead becomes a god herself….. This is a story of love, fate, loss, and consequence.
“They will make you a mother of monsters…” J.K. Divia, Berja
My meager words truly cannot do justice to the lyrical legend that Divia has written so beautifully. This is a masterpiece that you can read in one evening at under 150 pages. I have already eagerly started her other published novel ‘A Sea of Blood and Tears’ and her next release ‘Poison the Well’ is set to come out June 2026! So stay tuned, this is an author you should start tracking!
Berja is a dark, masterfully crafted novella that follows the Spring Maid, raised apart with the sole purpose to serve her people by producing another sacrificial Spring Maid destined to live alone and apart to appease the forest gods. However, this Spring Maid will not lay down to the whims of the gods and instead becomes a god herself….. This is a story of love, fate, loss, and consequence.
“They will make you a mother of monsters…” J.K. Divia, Berja
My meager words truly cannot do justice to the lyrical legend that Divia has written so beautifully. This is a masterpiece that you can read in one evening at under 150 pages. I have already eagerly started her other published novel ‘A Sea of Blood and Tears’ and her next release ‘Poison the Well’ is set to come out June 2026! So stay tuned, this is an author you should start tracking!
January 25, 2024
For once I genuinely don’t know what to say about a book. I don’t think I could come up with the words to accurately describe this book or do it justice. This book feels like a fairytale re-told through generations. It is beautiful and timeless. It’s a short story (100 pages) that would be a really good book to read if you wanna bump up your reading numbers ~ but it’s also a book that I feel needs to be annotated and studied. There are so many layers that I feel I need to read it again. If you’re looking for a book to get lost in & to support an independent author then THIS is the one! I hope that *EVERYONE* reads this book.
January 27, 2024
*SPOIL FREE REVIEW*
This is a phenomenal read. For anyone who adores dark fantasy and mythology, I cannot recommend this enough. The author takes a massive deep dive into the Celtic lore, while also taking you on a beautiful journey of self-discovery, purpose, and prophecy.
For anyone who is an avid Norse mythology fan, like I am, you will find key characteristics beautifully sprinkled throughout the story, and be introduced to a much larger plot by the end of the book (a devious and wicked cliffhanger for those begging for a sequel).
A mother of monsters, a cunning raven, and shape shifters - what more could you ask for?
This is a phenomenal read. For anyone who adores dark fantasy and mythology, I cannot recommend this enough. The author takes a massive deep dive into the Celtic lore, while also taking you on a beautiful journey of self-discovery, purpose, and prophecy.
For anyone who is an avid Norse mythology fan, like I am, you will find key characteristics beautifully sprinkled throughout the story, and be introduced to a much larger plot by the end of the book (a devious and wicked cliffhanger for those begging for a sequel).
A mother of monsters, a cunning raven, and shape shifters - what more could you ask for?
February 2, 2024
This viking, dark fantasy novella tells the story of a young woman raised to be a Spring Maid, a sacrifice to the old gods. But this Spring Maid will not submit, as she seeks freedom and power and love in a new way of life.
What a lovely novella! Lush prose and fierce emotion, gods and beasts, warriors and maidens, Divia tells an old and dark Nordic fable in a fierce and sensual way. Berja is a great character, learning and wanting, seeking independence and her right to love, life and family, while still being pulled and guilted by the ancient rules. But superstition, violence and vengeance jeopardize everything she needs to improve the lives of her newly built community.
A quick and emotional read. Magical and monstrous.
What a lovely novella! Lush prose and fierce emotion, gods and beasts, warriors and maidens, Divia tells an old and dark Nordic fable in a fierce and sensual way. Berja is a great character, learning and wanting, seeking independence and her right to love, life and family, while still being pulled and guilted by the ancient rules. But superstition, violence and vengeance jeopardize everything she needs to improve the lives of her newly built community.
A quick and emotional read. Magical and monstrous.
February 9, 2024
J.K. Divia is such a talented and captivating writer. Do yourself a favor and read her work!! This is my second book I’ve read by her and just like the first, I flew through it.
Based on the hamrammr, or shapeshifters from Norse Mythology, this dark fantasy is set in a forest that is greatly feared by outsiders. It is a deeply troubling and haunting tale of a girl whose fate is to be part of a dark ritual as a Spring Maid for her village. But this brave girl defies tradition and brings upon herself a different destiny. One that ends up being far darker and full of much more bloodshed than anything her village has witnessed before…
Just like Divia’s first book (A Sea of Blood and Tears), this is a story of a mother’s love for her children and all that she is willing to do and sacrifice for them. It is beautiful and powerful. I can’t recommend both of these books enough!
Based on the hamrammr, or shapeshifters from Norse Mythology, this dark fantasy is set in a forest that is greatly feared by outsiders. It is a deeply troubling and haunting tale of a girl whose fate is to be part of a dark ritual as a Spring Maid for her village. But this brave girl defies tradition and brings upon herself a different destiny. One that ends up being far darker and full of much more bloodshed than anything her village has witnessed before…
Just like Divia’s first book (A Sea of Blood and Tears), this is a story of a mother’s love for her children and all that she is willing to do and sacrifice for them. It is beautiful and powerful. I can’t recommend both of these books enough!
January 29, 2024
A short impactful read, but by no means easy... A sort of heavy darkness hangs over the narrative from the beginning, creating a very atmospheric tension that explodes into the brutal ending... The reader starts by feeling pride in Berja's rebellion, that slowly dissolves into a sad horror by the end... making one wonder what the cost of change is...
February 12, 2024
Though this book is short, the message is powerful, poignant, and raw. Born of Norse mythology, feminist folklore comes alive in Breja. There is a sense of rebirth in this beautiful storytelling, one in which women have a say over their bodies and their destiny. Breja is definitely worth a read…and a re-read! The poetic writing and message is both strong yet smooth. A satisfyingly beautiful read.
February 4, 2024
This was beautiful and haunting. Loved it!
June 21, 2024
Loved it!
I devoured this book in less than a day! I couldn't stop reading! I hope there's a book 2 in the near future!
I devoured this book in less than a day! I couldn't stop reading! I hope there's a book 2 in the near future!
March 19, 2026
ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Divia is such an incredible writer. The way her words sing to your ears. She's poetic and lyrical. She's a genius.
This novella was beautifully woven and heartbreaking. The events that unfolded for Berja broke me. It's a testament to how unbelievably strong women are and have always had to be.
If you enjoy norse mythology, strong fmcs, dark folklore, horror, lessons learned, gods and monsters, heartbreak and found family then you're going to want to read this novella.
Bring on my next J.K. Divia book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Divia is such an incredible writer. The way her words sing to your ears. She's poetic and lyrical. She's a genius.
This novella was beautifully woven and heartbreaking. The events that unfolded for Berja broke me. It's a testament to how unbelievably strong women are and have always had to be.
If you enjoy norse mythology, strong fmcs, dark folklore, horror, lessons learned, gods and monsters, heartbreak and found family then you're going to want to read this novella.
Bring on my next J.K. Divia book.
January 27, 2024
Divia's poetic style conjures a world of ethereal beauty and haunting darkness. She weaves together elements of pagan culture, mythical creatures, and the struggle between destiny and free will.
Berja is a young woman who escapes the fate determined by her village traditions only to make a dark pact with the Forest God. She is transformed and tied to a new destiny of war and destruction. Berja uses her magic to liberate others in her village, but soon it is corrupted. Now her "children" must grapple with the Forest God's dire prophecy.
Berja is a fusion of Norse mythology and lyrical storytelling that continues to build J.K. Divia's fantasy world. (Read her debut novel A Sea of Blood and Tears.)
Berja is a young woman who escapes the fate determined by her village traditions only to make a dark pact with the Forest God. She is transformed and tied to a new destiny of war and destruction. Berja uses her magic to liberate others in her village, but soon it is corrupted. Now her "children" must grapple with the Forest God's dire prophecy.
Berja is a fusion of Norse mythology and lyrical storytelling that continues to build J.K. Divia's fantasy world. (Read her debut novel A Sea of Blood and Tears.)
January 23, 2024
Beautifully written and enchanting, Divia brings us the tale of Berja: a Spring Maiden without a choice who refuses to submit to the will of the Elders and of her village.
Written in the form of a great myth or as folklore passed down generation to generation, this book reads like a fable from which we should learn great lessons. Lyrical and a wonderful read. Highly recommend.
Written in the form of a great myth or as folklore passed down generation to generation, this book reads like a fable from which we should learn great lessons. Lyrical and a wonderful read. Highly recommend.
February 1, 2024
This was a quick novella read perfect for anyone who loves dark stories based on lore, mythology, and fairytales. I loved the forest village vibe and the main character willing to break tradition and fight for the future she deserves. It’s the perfect book for reading on a stormy day, curled up in a blanket with a hot beverage!
Thank you to Verse Ventures Book Tours and J. K. Divia for having me on the ARC team!
Thank you to Verse Ventures Book Tours and J. K. Divia for having me on the ARC team!
February 3, 2024
3.5 stars
March 1, 2026
What an amazing tale! This is a nice short novella at only 80 something pages, and it is so beautifully written that you are absolutely transported into the old forest with Berja and her blossoming family. It’s a tale of family, escaping destiny and the hubris of mankind.
Plus the illustration of the cover and each chapter title page are absolutely stunning 😍
Plus the illustration of the cover and each chapter title page are absolutely stunning 😍
June 18, 2024
A flowery folktale about a fiery woman, Berja is a striking prequel to A Sea of Blood and Tears. Intense and beautiful, Berja blends themes of horror, Norse mythology and fairytale folklore in a story of love and self preservation that will leave you wanting more.
March 14, 2026
This haunting horror novella, inspired by Norse legend, immediately drew me in. While it may be a shorter read, the story leaves a lasting impression, and I really loved the way it unfolds.
Breja's journey throughout the story is filled with emotion and tension. As the story develops, you really feel the weight of the lessons she learns and the consequences she must face. There’s a depth to the story that lingers, making it more than just a dark tale; it’s thoughtful and impactful as well.
There’s no HEA waiting at the end of this story. Instead, the ending leaves you with a lingering sense of unease and reflection. It may not wrap everything up neatly, but it feels fitting for the tone of the story, and the message behind it stays with you long after the final page.
Breja's journey throughout the story is filled with emotion and tension. As the story develops, you really feel the weight of the lessons she learns and the consequences she must face. There’s a depth to the story that lingers, making it more than just a dark tale; it’s thoughtful and impactful as well.
There’s no HEA waiting at the end of this story. Instead, the ending leaves you with a lingering sense of unease and reflection. It may not wrap everything up neatly, but it feels fitting for the tone of the story, and the message behind it stays with you long after the final page.
February 2, 2024
Berja is a dark fantasy novella by J.K. Divia, perfect for fans of Norse mythology and Viking lore. The story features love, betrayal, and monsters.
Since this novella is less than 100 pages, it was a fast read between some of the longer books I’ve read lately. Reading this story felt like sitting around a campfire listening to someone share about myths and magic. The story follows a Spring Maiden who refuses to accept the destiny decided for her, and also explores the consequences that can come with such choices. This was a unique story with dark fairytale vibes and I really enjoyed it!
Thank you to the author and Verse Venture Tours for providing me with an ARC of this novella. All opinions expressed are my own.
Since this novella is less than 100 pages, it was a fast read between some of the longer books I’ve read lately. Reading this story felt like sitting around a campfire listening to someone share about myths and magic. The story follows a Spring Maiden who refuses to accept the destiny decided for her, and also explores the consequences that can come with such choices. This was a unique story with dark fairytale vibes and I really enjoyed it!
Thank you to the author and Verse Venture Tours for providing me with an ARC of this novella. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 29, 2024
What a wonderful, poetic tale of a woman's struggle to find herself, love, and her own sense of family. If you enjoy folklore tales, this is definitely one to pick up. The writing flows so well and I was turning the pages, able to read it in two sittings.
I always enjoy a love story, so Berja's and Eemil's bonding is what called to me the most. But I also appreciated the journey Berja went on as a woman and being of the world, that begins with simple determination:
"I will not submit. I want my freedom. I want the name she calls me.
I want to live for me."
Just one of my favorite passages I marked as I read. Very strong writing for a strong, thoughtful story.
I always enjoy a love story, so Berja's and Eemil's bonding is what called to me the most. But I also appreciated the journey Berja went on as a woman and being of the world, that begins with simple determination:
"I will not submit. I want my freedom. I want the name she calls me.
I want to live for me."
Just one of my favorite passages I marked as I read. Very strong writing for a strong, thoughtful story.
January 28, 2024
Beautifully written this short novella is perfect for fans of Norse Mythology and dark fantasy. From the beginning reading Berja made me feel like I was sitting fireside, in a Viking village listening to a story being passed down through the generations. A captivating read about a woman who refuses to accept the path that has been chosen for her, fights to change her destiny and the meddling of the Gods. There’s layers and meaning to this story that left me thinking about it long after I was finished and it would make a great pick for book club discussions!
January 26, 2026
Actively looking for more of J.K. Divia’s work. Her storytelling is both beautiful and tragic. The first-person narrative draws you in from the very first page — you feel the story in your bones.
Definitely wanted more than 90 pages of Berja’s tale.
Definitely wanted more than 90 pages of Berja’s tale.
March 12, 2026
This was the perfect folk tale. Short, sweet, and to the point. All with a lesson in the end. I absolutely loved it. It feels exactly like an old fairy tale complete with horror type elements. It was so well paced and read so quickly. The perfect book to pick up if you want something that you can finish in just a couple sittings. And as just a little bonus the chapter art is gorgeous!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews