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Whispers of the Nordic Draugr: A Steamy, Mythological Romantasy
In the misty realms of 16th-century Scandinavia, where myths dance with reality, Katarina finds herself ensnared in a perilous dance between the mortal and the ethereal. Possessed by the elusive mare, her world fractures, and the shadows grow darker. But amidst the chaos, a reluctant guardian emerges - Ulrik, the enigmatic master of her estate, harboring demonic secrets darker than the midnight sea.Haunted by a past veiled in blood and sorrow, Ulrik battles not only his own demons but the sinister machinations of Vasilij, his tyrannical draugr maker. Bound by an unholy pact, their fates entwine with Katarina's, as love and darkness collide in a deadly game of fate.As Ulrik and Katarina traverse the treacherous landscapes of love and fear, they must confront not only the malevolent mare but the looming specter of Vasilij, whose hunger for power knows no bounds. In a tale woven with romance and terror, their journey unfolds, where every step taken could lead to salvation or damnation.Enter a world where passion ignites amidst the howling winds, and where the line between hero and villain blurs in the flickering light of ancient legends. Prepare to be ensnared in the spellbinding tale of Katarina and Ulrik, where love defies even the darkest of shadows.Experience a spellbinding blend of love, passion, folklore and mystique.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2024
13 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 29, 2024
Whispers of the Nordic Draugr by Caroline Helenasdotter is more than a book; it is an experience that will make you feel like you've stepped into the harsh realities of 16th-century Scandinavia, where life isn't easy, especially if you're a woman, and where everyday life and myths and folklore are so intertwined at times you're not sure where one ends and the other begins.
It is a harsh world where Ulrik, the MMC, battles his demons and the realities of his new existence. Katarina, the FMC, manages to provide love, compassion, and understanding to everyone around her. Her views of the world and her need to see the good in everyone, humans and demons alike, give Ulrik the strength to become a better man. The love and the passion between them are so palpable, and it is beautiful to see how he has harbored his feelings for so long since they were both kids and how she saw that and eventually developed feelings of her own. Despite the age gap between them, with Katarina over 30 years old and Ulrik a bit younger and having loved her for his entire life, their love transcends time and societal norms.
Whispers of the Nordic Draugr is a spellbinding tale that defies time and place, a testament to the enduring power of love set in a mesmerizing tapestry of Nordic folklore and myths. In this world, the boundaries between heroes and villains are blurred by the flickering light of ancient legends. It's a world that beckons you to explore its mysteries, to uncover the truths hidden in its myths. Caroline's writing style, a delicate blend of poetry and dreams, enhances the enchantment of the story, making it a journey you'll be reluctant to leave.
What will you find in Whispers of the Nordic Draugr?
- Dark fantasy
- Nordic mythology,
- 16th-century Scandinavia,
- Demons, monsters, creatures of myths,
- Forbidden love,
- Soulmates,
- Morally grey MMC,
- FMC is over 30 years old,
- He has loved her for his entire life.
Don't miss the chance to delve into the enchanting world of Whispers of the Nordic Draugr. Allow yourself to be captivated by its magic, and let the story take you on a journey you won't forget!
It is a harsh world where Ulrik, the MMC, battles his demons and the realities of his new existence. Katarina, the FMC, manages to provide love, compassion, and understanding to everyone around her. Her views of the world and her need to see the good in everyone, humans and demons alike, give Ulrik the strength to become a better man. The love and the passion between them are so palpable, and it is beautiful to see how he has harbored his feelings for so long since they were both kids and how she saw that and eventually developed feelings of her own. Despite the age gap between them, with Katarina over 30 years old and Ulrik a bit younger and having loved her for his entire life, their love transcends time and societal norms.
Whispers of the Nordic Draugr is a spellbinding tale that defies time and place, a testament to the enduring power of love set in a mesmerizing tapestry of Nordic folklore and myths. In this world, the boundaries between heroes and villains are blurred by the flickering light of ancient legends. It's a world that beckons you to explore its mysteries, to uncover the truths hidden in its myths. Caroline's writing style, a delicate blend of poetry and dreams, enhances the enchantment of the story, making it a journey you'll be reluctant to leave.
What will you find in Whispers of the Nordic Draugr?
- Dark fantasy
- Nordic mythology,
- 16th-century Scandinavia,
- Demons, monsters, creatures of myths,
- Forbidden love,
- Soulmates,
- Morally grey MMC,
- FMC is over 30 years old,
- He has loved her for his entire life.
Don't miss the chance to delve into the enchanting world of Whispers of the Nordic Draugr. Allow yourself to be captivated by its magic, and let the story take you on a journey you won't forget!
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May 24, 2024"Whispers of the Nordic Draugr" immerses you in Scandinavian folklore, bringing legends to life with a rich narrative full of mythical beings. The author's rhythmic prose is captivating, though heavy on adjectives, which can sometimes hinder full immersion. Characters are intriguing but feel distant due to the dense descriptions.
The protagonist's mature portrayal and themes of strength and resilience make this a fairy tale for adults, effectively blending fantasy and romance. The poetic writing style creates a captivating experience, although it can occasionally overshadow the story and feel monotonous. The monotonous feel could have been avoided by blending purple prose with a hint of beige prose, which would have kept me going.To be honest, the prose is really, really beautifully written with a rhythmic quality that captivates the imagination. However, the abundance of adjectives occasionally hampers the ability to fully engage yourself in the scenery. The characters, though intriguing, feel somewhat distant, perhaps due to the plethora of descriptive language that leaves little room for personal interpretation. Some plot holes and underexplored character motivations leave questions unanswered, and clarity on the protagonist's age would add context. Despite these minor flaws, the book offers a compelling and poignant tale of love and strength.
The protagonist's mature portrayal and themes of strength and resilience make this a fairy tale for adults, effectively blending fantasy and romance. The poetic writing style creates a captivating experience, although it can occasionally overshadow the story and feel monotonous. The monotonous feel could have been avoided by blending purple prose with a hint of beige prose, which would have kept me going.To be honest, the prose is really, really beautifully written with a rhythmic quality that captivates the imagination. However, the abundance of adjectives occasionally hampers the ability to fully engage yourself in the scenery. The characters, though intriguing, feel somewhat distant, perhaps due to the plethora of descriptive language that leaves little room for personal interpretation. Some plot holes and underexplored character motivations leave questions unanswered, and clarity on the protagonist's age would add context. Despite these minor flaws, the book offers a compelling and poignant tale of love and strength.
July 3, 2024
4.5⭐️ | 2.5-3🔥
“A steamy, mythological romantasy”
Author, Caroline Helenasdotter has written an intricate and entrancing tale that I will happily reread time and again.
Set amidst a 16th-century Scandinavian backdrop, all the misty mystique of those lands, their folklore and renowned mythos comes to life upon the pages of Whispers of the Nordic Draugr.
Katarina is an intriguing character whose life experiences and age shine bright… it was lovely to read about a woman closer in age to me adapts and chooses resilience and growth in the face of change and adversity.
Her inquisitive nature still ultimately tests her very reason when the lure of knowledge of the worlds and beings beyond the veils and within other realms fractures her real world’s “comfort”.
With the darkness creeping ever closer and the Mare’s possession a haunting caress, it's left to the enigmatic anti-hero Ulrik to play watcher, protector and possibly more.
But Ulrik’s secret past shadows his every step— a story that is fascinating within itself… and with his new “charge” come dangers even he may have trouble sidestepping as Katarina’s insistent dance with chaos consumes them both.
I cannot get enough of this book, the absolute sacredness of something so well imagined and written, then released into the aether.
One of my most highly recommended explorations for 2024 which demands an immediate read!
“A steamy, mythological romantasy”
Author, Caroline Helenasdotter has written an intricate and entrancing tale that I will happily reread time and again.
Set amidst a 16th-century Scandinavian backdrop, all the misty mystique of those lands, their folklore and renowned mythos comes to life upon the pages of Whispers of the Nordic Draugr.
Katarina is an intriguing character whose life experiences and age shine bright… it was lovely to read about a woman closer in age to me adapts and chooses resilience and growth in the face of change and adversity.
Her inquisitive nature still ultimately tests her very reason when the lure of knowledge of the worlds and beings beyond the veils and within other realms fractures her real world’s “comfort”.
With the darkness creeping ever closer and the Mare’s possession a haunting caress, it's left to the enigmatic anti-hero Ulrik to play watcher, protector and possibly more.
But Ulrik’s secret past shadows his every step— a story that is fascinating within itself… and with his new “charge” come dangers even he may have trouble sidestepping as Katarina’s insistent dance with chaos consumes them both.
I cannot get enough of this book, the absolute sacredness of something so well imagined and written, then released into the aether.
One of my most highly recommended explorations for 2024 which demands an immediate read!
May 1, 2024
I was a beta reader for this book. I always enjoy a piece which incorporates mythology, in this case Swedish! It was fun learning about the different nordic creatures sprinkled throughout this book, however it is written in a heavily poetic style which isn't entirely my taste. All of the embellishments made it harder for me to have a connection to the characters and live in the moment with them. But that's just my personal opinion on the style of book - if you like poetic prose - this'll be the one for you!
March 12, 2024
I was a beta reader for this book.
I really enjoyed the story. It was refreshing to read a book featuring Scandinavian folklore and the demonic creature, draugr, as the male main character, rather than just another vampire story.
The story provides insight into some of the mythological creatures within Scandinavian folklore, and I really enjoyed reading about those creatures. While most books with Norse mythology focus on Vikings, it was fascinating to read about other kinds of monsters and creatures within Nordic mythology.
I really loved the fact that the author describes a Lindwyrm as the most powerful creature, rather than a dragon. While I do enjoy reading fantasy about dragons, the Lindwyrm gave the story a nice twist.
Many romantic fantasy books often feature a main female character in her early 20s. While Katarina, the main female lead in this book, never has her age explicitly mentioned, judging from the description of her life, she must be in her late 30s or early 40s. As a 35-year-old woman, I truly appreciated reading a romantic fantasy where the main female lead was not a young adult.
And I did love the fact that Katarina was a very gentle soul, yet not weak. She is courageous and empathetic, standing up for herself, yet she is also kindhearted and tries to see the best in people.
It is a very romantic story, the love scenes are particularly romantic, steamy, and detailed. The author has a somewhat peculiar writing style, which I find intriguing
I do recommend this book, but readers should be aware of triggers such as death, violence, detailed sexual content, references to abuse, and PTSD
I really enjoyed the story. It was refreshing to read a book featuring Scandinavian folklore and the demonic creature, draugr, as the male main character, rather than just another vampire story.
The story provides insight into some of the mythological creatures within Scandinavian folklore, and I really enjoyed reading about those creatures. While most books with Norse mythology focus on Vikings, it was fascinating to read about other kinds of monsters and creatures within Nordic mythology.
I really loved the fact that the author describes a Lindwyrm as the most powerful creature, rather than a dragon. While I do enjoy reading fantasy about dragons, the Lindwyrm gave the story a nice twist.
Many romantic fantasy books often feature a main female character in her early 20s. While Katarina, the main female lead in this book, never has her age explicitly mentioned, judging from the description of her life, she must be in her late 30s or early 40s. As a 35-year-old woman, I truly appreciated reading a romantic fantasy where the main female lead was not a young adult.
And I did love the fact that Katarina was a very gentle soul, yet not weak. She is courageous and empathetic, standing up for herself, yet she is also kindhearted and tries to see the best in people.
It is a very romantic story, the love scenes are particularly romantic, steamy, and detailed. The author has a somewhat peculiar writing style, which I find intriguing
I do recommend this book, but readers should be aware of triggers such as death, violence, detailed sexual content, references to abuse, and PTSD
June 28, 2024
Whispers of the Nordic Draugr - Caroline Helenasdotter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ / 🌶️🌶️/ Kindle / TW: violence
Thank you to Caroline for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my review!
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Official Blurb:
In the misty realms of 16th-century Scandinavia, where myths dance with reality, Katarina finds herself ensnared in a perilous dance between the mortal and the ethereal. Possessed by the elusive mare, her world fractures, and the shadows grow darker. But amidst the chaos, a reluctant guardian emerges - Ulrik, the enigmatic master of her estate, harboring demonic secrets darker than the midnight sea.
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Review:
This is hands down one of the most beautifully written books I’ve ever read - it is so so so easy to picture the world that AUTHOR has imagined.
From the description of the tense and mysterious land, to the sensory ways the seasons and the atmospheres are explained - every line of this book whisks you away to another place.
Even the intimate scenes are painted like a work of art, feeling delicate and warm.
The inclusions of Nordic folklore really help to tie the story together, bringing Katarina’s desire to coexist with and
understand the creatures at full force against Ulrich’s inherent need to protect her against them.
I also love the fact that Katarina is in her thirties and has lived a life. She isn’t defined by the circumstances between her and Ulrich, she is strengthened by them and who she is is what helps guide her through.
All in all, Whispers of the Nordic Draugr is a beautiful book full of folklore, mystery and love and I’m honored to have read it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ / 🌶️🌶️/ Kindle / TW: violence
Thank you to Caroline for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my review!
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Official Blurb:
In the misty realms of 16th-century Scandinavia, where myths dance with reality, Katarina finds herself ensnared in a perilous dance between the mortal and the ethereal. Possessed by the elusive mare, her world fractures, and the shadows grow darker. But amidst the chaos, a reluctant guardian emerges - Ulrik, the enigmatic master of her estate, harboring demonic secrets darker than the midnight sea.
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Review:
This is hands down one of the most beautifully written books I’ve ever read - it is so so so easy to picture the world that AUTHOR has imagined.
From the description of the tense and mysterious land, to the sensory ways the seasons and the atmospheres are explained - every line of this book whisks you away to another place.
Even the intimate scenes are painted like a work of art, feeling delicate and warm.
The inclusions of Nordic folklore really help to tie the story together, bringing Katarina’s desire to coexist with and
understand the creatures at full force against Ulrich’s inherent need to protect her against them.
I also love the fact that Katarina is in her thirties and has lived a life. She isn’t defined by the circumstances between her and Ulrich, she is strengthened by them and who she is is what helps guide her through.
All in all, Whispers of the Nordic Draugr is a beautiful book full of folklore, mystery and love and I’m honored to have read it.
April 29, 2024
Whispers of a Nordic Draugr reads like a dark atmospheric fairytale for adults, reminiscent of the brothers Grimm or Hans Christian Andersen. I really liked that the main character Katarina was a woman of middle age, but was every bit the romantic heroine. It is refreshing to see an “older” woman as the protagonist, and even better when she is neither a frumpy housewife nor a sexed-up cougar, but just a normal human. So, it was great to see this representation, and Katarina stood out as completely believable and relatable.
The story starts off quite slow, with the main antagonist not appearing until about the halfway mark, but once Vasilij appears, the story picks up the pace and doesn’t let up. I loved the appearance of different creatures from Nordic folklore and the scene with Katarina and the lindworm kept me on the edge of my seat.
The language is very flowery and poetic, which I sometimes found a bit overwhelming. but this is most likely due to reader preference more than anything else. I know many readers who enjoy a narrative filled with metaphor and symbolism, I just happen to prefer more literal decriptions.
Overall, a very original and interesting tale.
The story starts off quite slow, with the main antagonist not appearing until about the halfway mark, but once Vasilij appears, the story picks up the pace and doesn’t let up. I loved the appearance of different creatures from Nordic folklore and the scene with Katarina and the lindworm kept me on the edge of my seat.
The language is very flowery and poetic, which I sometimes found a bit overwhelming. but this is most likely due to reader preference more than anything else. I know many readers who enjoy a narrative filled with metaphor and symbolism, I just happen to prefer more literal decriptions.
Overall, a very original and interesting tale.
June 4, 2024
Another interesting indie read from Indie Visible. This time a romantasy inspired by Scandinavian mythology, specifically Swedish - which was a lot of fun! I think I might have had an easier time pronouncing certain names due to me being Norwegian, haha.
In this story about Ulrik - a soldier returned from war, and Katarina - a widowed housemaid, we meet a lot of cool mythological creatures and are introduced to some very gruesome villains. Some of the creatures are helpful, while others are intent on causing trouble. I really liked how this part of the story was handled, and how differently Katarina approached the various væsen and how she solved the problems she and Ulrik encountered.
The plot was pretty interesting and I enjoyed it quite a bit. But due to the nature of how this book is written (the author calls is poetic, but I think maybe I was expecting something different idk?) I struggled to connect with the characters - the POV is third person omniscient which involves a lot of headhopping and telling and a very present author - and the three (?) back to back spicy scenes quickly got repetative.
In this story about Ulrik - a soldier returned from war, and Katarina - a widowed housemaid, we meet a lot of cool mythological creatures and are introduced to some very gruesome villains. Some of the creatures are helpful, while others are intent on causing trouble. I really liked how this part of the story was handled, and how differently Katarina approached the various væsen and how she solved the problems she and Ulrik encountered.
The plot was pretty interesting and I enjoyed it quite a bit. But due to the nature of how this book is written (the author calls is poetic, but I think maybe I was expecting something different idk?) I struggled to connect with the characters - the POV is third person omniscient which involves a lot of headhopping and telling and a very present author - and the three (?) back to back spicy scenes quickly got repetative.
April 19, 2024
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy and romance with a touch of the paranormal.
The story is about a woman who becomes possessed by a mare, and the man who has loved her all his life does everything in his power to save her soul. He is a draugr, a type of demon similar to a vampire. Draugrs do not age, they drink blood, consume flesh, sleep in graveyards, and possess unearthly strength and abilities.
I particularly appreciated how the story intertwines mythological creatures, monsters, and other entities within a historical setting. Although it is primarily a romance, it crosses into the horror genre in many scenes. There is a certain darkness to the story, but it's not quite like dark romance. The steamy scenes are detailed yet also 'tame' and romantic.
Various monsters and creatures from folklore appear in the book, and they are described in an interesting way. I was completely captivated by the scene where the draugr maker returns to claim his creation.
The story is about a woman who becomes possessed by a mare, and the man who has loved her all his life does everything in his power to save her soul. He is a draugr, a type of demon similar to a vampire. Draugrs do not age, they drink blood, consume flesh, sleep in graveyards, and possess unearthly strength and abilities.
I particularly appreciated how the story intertwines mythological creatures, monsters, and other entities within a historical setting. Although it is primarily a romance, it crosses into the horror genre in many scenes. There is a certain darkness to the story, but it's not quite like dark romance. The steamy scenes are detailed yet also 'tame' and romantic.
Various monsters and creatures from folklore appear in the book, and they are described in an interesting way. I was completely captivated by the scene where the draugr maker returns to claim his creation.
April 7, 2024
"Whispers of the Nordic Draugr" is like stepping into a fairy tale made just for grown-ups. Set in the 16th century, it doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of life back then, while also weaving in magical elements.
The book brings Scandinavian folklore to life with its vivid descriptions of mythical creatures. Draugr, mare, tomte, strandvaskare, lyktgubbe, kyrkogrim, jötnar, these beings add a magical twist to the story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
It is interesting how the author blends fantasy with romance. It's not overwhelming; instead, it complements the main plot perfectly. The romantic scenes are steamy and detailed, adding depth to the characters and their relationships.
I particularly enjoyed how the book explores sleep paralysis alongside the mare, creating an intriguing blend of mystery and the supernatural.
It is a delightful mix of fantasy and romance. With its captivating storytelling and enchanting creatures, it's a book that's hard to put down. Whether you're a fan of fairy tales or romance novels, this one's sure to captivate you until the very end.
The book brings Scandinavian folklore to life with its vivid descriptions of mythical creatures. Draugr, mare, tomte, strandvaskare, lyktgubbe, kyrkogrim, jötnar, these beings add a magical twist to the story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
It is interesting how the author blends fantasy with romance. It's not overwhelming; instead, it complements the main plot perfectly. The romantic scenes are steamy and detailed, adding depth to the characters and their relationships.
I particularly enjoyed how the book explores sleep paralysis alongside the mare, creating an intriguing blend of mystery and the supernatural.
It is a delightful mix of fantasy and romance. With its captivating storytelling and enchanting creatures, it's a book that's hard to put down. Whether you're a fan of fairy tales or romance novels, this one's sure to captivate you until the very end.
May 1, 2024
"Whispers of the Nordic Draugr" is a hauntingly beautiful tale that subverts traditional romance norms with its dark and gritty narrative. The novel follows the love affair of an enigmatic Draugr, cursed to roam the earth as an undead guardian, and his forbidden love for an older heroine (which is refreshing to see!).
Our heroine finds herself at the mercy of treacherous beasts and creatures from Nordic lore, but with her draugr by her side, she is able to accomplish the impossible. The story explores our heroine's inner world, thoughts, and beliefs as she falls in love with the one who has loved her his entire life.
The narrative is compelling, the environment is beautifully described, and the characters are nuanced. It is well worth a place on your bookshelf.
Our heroine finds herself at the mercy of treacherous beasts and creatures from Nordic lore, but with her draugr by her side, she is able to accomplish the impossible. The story explores our heroine's inner world, thoughts, and beliefs as she falls in love with the one who has loved her his entire life.
The narrative is compelling, the environment is beautifully described, and the characters are nuanced. It is well worth a place on your bookshelf.
March 15, 2024
I was a beta reader for this book, and I really enjoyed it.
I highly recommend it, particularly if you're interested in reading fantasy featuring a middle-aged female protagonist.
What I especially appreciated was that the main female character wasn't a warrior. Instead, she showed strength through kindness, empathy, and understanding. In today's literary landscape, where female warriors are often emphasized, it was refreshing to encounter a narrative that highlit the idea that strength can manifest in various ways.
The author's writing style is very poetic, which I found particularly enchanting in the steamy scenes. Overall it is a very romantic story.
I highly recommend it, particularly if you're interested in reading fantasy featuring a middle-aged female protagonist.
What I especially appreciated was that the main female character wasn't a warrior. Instead, she showed strength through kindness, empathy, and understanding. In today's literary landscape, where female warriors are often emphasized, it was refreshing to encounter a narrative that highlit the idea that strength can manifest in various ways.
The author's writing style is very poetic, which I found particularly enchanting in the steamy scenes. Overall it is a very romantic story.
April 24, 2024
Whispers of the Nordic Draugr was original and a breath of fresh air.
Caroline Helenasdotter writes with such whimsical detail that it's so easy to be taken away to the forests and farm that this story is set in.
Themes of lost humanity, redemption, good vs. evil, and the chosen one play along beautifully.
My favorite 😍, I mean absolute favorite, is the mare. A delicious monster of old whose terror hasn't lost its hold. Caroline beautifully brings it to life.
The love between Ulrik and Katarina is steamy and sweet.
My only complaint is that it wasn't formatted as an epic poem. The language is exquisite and too sophisticated for a regular story.
Caroline Helenasdotter writes with such whimsical detail that it's so easy to be taken away to the forests and farm that this story is set in.
Themes of lost humanity, redemption, good vs. evil, and the chosen one play along beautifully.
My favorite 😍, I mean absolute favorite, is the mare. A delicious monster of old whose terror hasn't lost its hold. Caroline beautifully brings it to life.
The love between Ulrik and Katarina is steamy and sweet.
My only complaint is that it wasn't formatted as an epic poem. The language is exquisite and too sophisticated for a regular story.
May 23, 2024
Wow, what a fascinating little novel. If you're looking for a fast paced, dark fairytale with a bit of spice, then this one is for you! While I didn't necessarily feel a huge connection with the characters, I did find their journey and the world building in particular absolutely fascinating.
The writing is poetic, vivid and feels very old school classical. It has that sense of adventure that you used to feel as a child picking up a fantasy book... although, as I said above, this one is for adults!
I particularly liked the final line from the epilogue, a perfect way to finish it off.
I recommend to those who love fantasy or anyone looking for something a bit different!
The writing is poetic, vivid and feels very old school classical. It has that sense of adventure that you used to feel as a child picking up a fantasy book... although, as I said above, this one is for adults!
I particularly liked the final line from the epilogue, a perfect way to finish it off.
I recommend to those who love fantasy or anyone looking for something a bit different!
April 12, 2024
I really liked this book.
The steamy scenes were very detailed and also poetic. Nothing weird, just very descriptive. I enjoyed the romantic story between the two main characters. The development between them was nice, and the fact that the main male character, Ulrik, had loved the main female character, Katarina, his entire life was very romantic.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy and romance with a touch (or quite a lot) of mythology.
It was fun to read a story with a draugr. I had never heard that word before and did not know that it was a kind of demon.
The steamy scenes were very detailed and also poetic. Nothing weird, just very descriptive. I enjoyed the romantic story between the two main characters. The development between them was nice, and the fact that the main male character, Ulrik, had loved the main female character, Katarina, his entire life was very romantic.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy and romance with a touch (or quite a lot) of mythology.
It was fun to read a story with a draugr. I had never heard that word before and did not know that it was a kind of demon.
April 30, 2024
Full disclosure: I was sent an ARC of this book by the author. My opinions are my own.
This book is has so many details. The style is reminiscent of poetic edda, and introduced me to some new creatures/beings. A lot of information is front loaded, but there are also reminders throughout so I didn't feel like I lost track of what was important. Minus a star because while the reminders were helpful, it became a little repetitive. Overall, a good read.
This book is has so many details. The style is reminiscent of poetic edda, and introduced me to some new creatures/beings. A lot of information is front loaded, but there are also reminders throughout so I didn't feel like I lost track of what was important. Minus a star because while the reminders were helpful, it became a little repetitive. Overall, a good read.
May 30, 2024
This was very different from the romantasy I would normally read, but not in a bad way. I enjoyed reading the Nordic lore interwoven in, and the way things were described created vivid pictures I could easily visualize.
A lot of the details were front loaded, and while helpful and interesting, I did find that it pulled me out of the scene and became repetitive at times throughout the story.
A lot of the details were front loaded, and while helpful and interesting, I did find that it pulled me out of the scene and became repetitive at times throughout the story.
July 6, 2024
This dark romance was a jaw-dropping mix of Scandinavian myth and unwavering love. The heroine is a kind and clever foil to her hero lover who struggles with his demonic side, but they both complement each other well. Definitely for 18+ readers.
May 1, 2024
I loved this book. It was very romantic and captivating. An exciting blend between folklore, fantasy, and romance.
May 2, 2024
I just loved how poetic this book was
July 17, 2024
There are many things that I have noticed about this novel which are not the scenario when it comes to romance, let alone periodical romance. The story is based on 16th century Scandinavian folklore. The Female main character is aged somewhere in mid 30s which I find good, not every FMC needs to be a teenager or an young adult. The MMC is portrayed morally grey, which is again something positive that I found in the book. It is fascinating to know about Scandinavia’s mythology. The flow of the novel was poetic that at some points it felt it could be reduced. I definitely recommend the book to fantasy lovers – do read something other than dragons and werewolves.
May 28, 2024
A Timeless (and flawless) Mythological Romance
Caroline Helenasdotter's mythological romantasy, "Whispers of the Nordic Draugr," is not your usual steamy novel. Following the atypical love tale of Katarina, a maid past the bloom of youth, and Ulrik, the brooding, mysterious, and life-scarred master of the mansion, the book is brimming with rich, authentic Norse mythos and fantasy elements. While this is what initially attracted me most, the romantasy side of the novel was a delightful surprise as well.
Helenasdotter skillfully combines the realism of the Scandinavian Early Modern Period, characterized by religious and cultural reforms, with a fantastic plethora of legends and traditions. The author does extraordinarily diligent work, with an absolute focus on detail, which renders the story plot-hole free. The novel smolders with intensity, passion, and a thirst for justice and life. The ending is deliciously satisfying to read and simultaneously makes a real dent in your memory, leaving you craving more.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to experience a gracious journey back in a flawless depiction of the 16th century, as well as those who want to enjoy an original story of timeless, forbidden love.
Caroline Helenasdotter's mythological romantasy, "Whispers of the Nordic Draugr," is not your usual steamy novel. Following the atypical love tale of Katarina, a maid past the bloom of youth, and Ulrik, the brooding, mysterious, and life-scarred master of the mansion, the book is brimming with rich, authentic Norse mythos and fantasy elements. While this is what initially attracted me most, the romantasy side of the novel was a delightful surprise as well.
Helenasdotter skillfully combines the realism of the Scandinavian Early Modern Period, characterized by religious and cultural reforms, with a fantastic plethora of legends and traditions. The author does extraordinarily diligent work, with an absolute focus on detail, which renders the story plot-hole free. The novel smolders with intensity, passion, and a thirst for justice and life. The ending is deliciously satisfying to read and simultaneously makes a real dent in your memory, leaving you craving more.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to experience a gracious journey back in a flawless depiction of the 16th century, as well as those who want to enjoy an original story of timeless, forbidden love.
February 4, 2025
This book is unique and unlike anything I’ve read before. It’s full of Nordic folklore, mystery, and suspense. The writing is very poetic and descriptive. The FMC is in her thirties which is a refreshing change from your typical fantasy romance story. I enjoyed the dynamics between the main characters. Ulrik is protective of Katarina and shows her love and loyalty despite his dark and demonic nature.
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