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The Vargr #8
Running Ember: Wolf Shifters of Norse Lore
They’d expected the run of the North to be just that—a run to pull the biggest bond of Alphas in thousands of years. What none of them had expected was to find secrets of the past buried in the old and scarcely touched nature of Scandinavia.
In one instance after another, the past tosses its puzzle pieces at them for the Völve to work with, and as they gather the clues, synchronicity aids by lining up strange occurrences.
The ones that are hit the hardest are Pack Alpha Steffen and Nol-Elakdon. With help from the bond, they both have to deal with the necessities of going against their ways to figure out what’s going on. Digging for answers unearths a corner piece, and they finally have an idea of what they’re up against.
Something forgotten. Something they don’t know. Something that simply can’t be true.
And the wind brings news for the Völve to
“Rigr, Rigr, it’s time to rise, for swans to land, and for eagles to fly. Valkyrie, Valkyrie, pick your warrior. It’s time for them to burn!”
Contains a conversation about past SA
In one instance after another, the past tosses its puzzle pieces at them for the Völve to work with, and as they gather the clues, synchronicity aids by lining up strange occurrences.
The ones that are hit the hardest are Pack Alpha Steffen and Nol-Elakdon. With help from the bond, they both have to deal with the necessities of going against their ways to figure out what’s going on. Digging for answers unearths a corner piece, and they finally have an idea of what they’re up against.
Something forgotten. Something they don’t know. Something that simply can’t be true.
And the wind brings news for the Völve to
“Rigr, Rigr, it’s time to rise, for swans to land, and for eagles to fly. Valkyrie, Valkyrie, pick your warrior. It’s time for them to burn!”
Contains a conversation about past SA
466 pages, Paperback
Published June 25, 2024
5 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Meraki P. Lyhne
38 books236 followersMeraki P. Lyhne, real name Martin, is a Danish author spanning multiple genres and pseudonyms. Meraki P. Lyhne mainly writes contemporary paranormal LGBT fiction with various degrees of romantic heat, some with a HEA, some with a HFN, and some with white-knuckling cliffhangers. Mostly, he writes long series with focus on worldbuilding, action, and something epic.
To make sure no one is ever confused about what kind of book they're about to pick up, the surname will guide you.
Lyhne writes gay fiction (with various degrees of heat).
If the surname is mirrored on the cover, it is het-fiction (with various degrees of heat).
If both are on the cover (like the logo), it is bi-fiction (with various degrees of heat).
Information is best found on his website.
Other than that, he’s a single dad to a teenage boy, the happy companion to a Rottweiler, and he lives in a very small village next to nowhere.
To make sure no one is ever confused about what kind of book they're about to pick up, the surname will guide you.
Lyhne writes gay fiction (with various degrees of heat).
If the surname is mirrored on the cover, it is het-fiction (with various degrees of heat).
If both are on the cover (like the logo), it is bi-fiction (with various degrees of heat).
Information is best found on his website.
Other than that, he’s a single dad to a teenage boy, the happy companion to a Rottweiler, and he lives in a very small village next to nowhere.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 25, 2024
This is 4.5☆ really. You lost half a star cause I hafta wait for the next book.
DONT start with this book. You 100% need to read previous books to understand even a tini tiny part of where this book is leading.
So the story literally begins where the previous book ended. Matt and Haiti, alongside Geri and Freki are leading a run across the European land, while other big side characters are only referenced, ie Daniel and Patina, they arent prominent in this book. We now have Valkeries, to join the Wolves, Warriors, Cubi, theres also references to Jörmungandr, and Humans. (Anyone else feeling incompetent, as a mere human?) all the children of the Gods returning..... something BIG is brewing and while the run goes on, Matt and co keep adding to this group. I feel like the build up is enormous, so far Meraki P. Lyhne has not let me down and cant wait for what come next.
Ive left this review vague, as there are some points that could be a spoiler, but sooo much I wanna blurt out about.
DONT start with this book. You 100% need to read previous books to understand even a tini tiny part of where this book is leading.
So the story literally begins where the previous book ended. Matt and Haiti, alongside Geri and Freki are leading a run across the European land, while other big side characters are only referenced, ie Daniel and Patina, they arent prominent in this book. We now have Valkeries, to join the Wolves, Warriors, Cubi, theres also references to Jörmungandr, and Humans. (Anyone else feeling incompetent, as a mere human?) all the children of the Gods returning..... something BIG is brewing and while the run goes on, Matt and co keep adding to this group. I feel like the build up is enormous, so far Meraki P. Lyhne has not let me down and cant wait for what come next.
Ive left this review vague, as there are some points that could be a spoiler, but sooo much I wanna blurt out about.
June 30, 2024
This book finally covers the run that we have been working toward in the last books. I know I've said it before about the earlier books but I love this story, even though I struggle with the writing from time to time. So much is covered in these books: friendship, family, philosophy, mythical creatures, Nordic lore, societal issues (to name just a few things). Things are often looked at from different perspectives and balanced to find the best way forward, which is an approach I like a lot. That's probably one of the reasons I feel so comfortable with these characters. It's definitely a world I gladly return to and I'm really looking forward to the next installments in this series.
July 3, 2024
Just when I thought the complexity just couldn't be increased, the author managed it again. Once the series definitely ends (not that I want it to) I will want to go for a complete read through, I'm sure I'll discover so many more elements in hindsight. The growth and discoveries of the main group of characters just keeps progressing, and all the different valid viewpoints being properly studied is wonderful. It was also special to finally have the huge run that they were moving towards in the last few books.
June 10, 2024
Epic Fantasy
I have loved this series since the first book. There is a lot going on to keep your interest. I often reread his books ( a rarity for me) and discover loads of details I missed I. The first and second readings.
My only complaint about this book is the way it ended. The general theme of this book is the Vargr run to gain allies. It was known since the previous book where the run ends and a meeting with world leaders is to be held. A logical end for this book would be when they are approaching or just arrive at the final destination. Instead, they are at the last stopover, meet someone central to the plot that answers a lot of questions, but raises just as many. My Kindle said I was at 98%, and it was late, so I decided to leave the last chapter for morning over breakfast. I turned the page to bookmark, and there was the author's information. It just stopped! No resolution! No cliffhanger! It just stopped!
Still 5 stars for me, but wow, what an abrupt ending.
I have loved this series since the first book. There is a lot going on to keep your interest. I often reread his books ( a rarity for me) and discover loads of details I missed I. The first and second readings.
My only complaint about this book is the way it ended. The general theme of this book is the Vargr run to gain allies. It was known since the previous book where the run ends and a meeting with world leaders is to be held. A logical end for this book would be when they are approaching or just arrive at the final destination. Instead, they are at the last stopover, meet someone central to the plot that answers a lot of questions, but raises just as many. My Kindle said I was at 98%, and it was late, so I decided to leave the last chapter for morning over breakfast. I turned the page to bookmark, and there was the author's information. It just stopped! No resolution! No cliffhanger! It just stopped!
Still 5 stars for me, but wow, what an abrupt ending.
June 16, 2024
I am absolutely in love with this series. I love the world the author has created. Each character has so many layers, and there is more revealed about each of them as the story progresses. I am so very curious where the story is going to go. I am definitely in this series for the duration! You must read these books in order (and preferably after reading The Cubi series) to understand this story. It is a continuation of the previous books, but I definitely recommend all of them.
May 13, 2024
Amazing as usual. This one had Matt working harder and Hati supporting him more as a mate. I think Matt and Rasmus is getting closer to finally being together and we get to see some of Matt’s fun side. This one was intense in Stephens part knowing he is something else. I can’t wait for the next one no matter how long it takes !
May 24, 2024
This is Book eight of The Varge Book Series
This was another great read so much was stuffed into this book with so many new characters. Although I really love how you present Norse Folklore but make it relevant for the modern age.
This was another great read so much was stuffed into this book with so many new characters. Although I really love how you present Norse Folklore but make it relevant for the modern age.
July 2, 2024
This was SO good!! A ton of new lore and new, important characters are introduced. When I started I thought this was the last book, but it’s not. I’m impatiently awaiting the next!!!! Can’t wait.
June 8, 2024
This is book 8 in the series and must be read in order to understand the characters and the overall arc. I have been reading these books from the very beginning and I was so happy to learn about this one. The book starts after the end of the 7th where they was lot of healing to happen. They are now running throughout the countryside to bring unity to the wolves, Vargr, Sleipnir and Cubi. At one of the stops, they help some human hikers who one was hurt. As they are there something happens which they don’t understand and Stefan was infected. We get to hear more of the Norse lore and more new characters were introduced. I cannot wait to read more of what happens next.
June 16, 2024
3,5?
A bit confused with names, titles, myths, and events—honesty? I was pretty lost actually. I still have the need for a glossary with a brief description of facts and myths, and even previous events in the series; the one with names was very sort this time compared to book 6, for example, and there wasn’t a list with all the names mentioned in the book. I can’t remember everything, hence the need for the glossary. (I needed to go to book 6 character’ sheet to know who Ortega —or Oteka?—and Regir were, sleipnir Harro parents).
It annoyed me the constant reference to Randr as “ugly husband”. And didn’t like one bit everyone talking about Matt and Rasmus’ intimacy. On the other side, there’s a lot of pack piling and interesting stuff. Oh, and I’m fan of Warlord Thorleif, so great.
I’m looking forward to the next book, though, but I don’t want to feel as lost as I did sometimes with the past books or this one.
«Who we are without our problems is an important answer to find in order to know ourselves».
A bit confused with names, titles, myths, and events—honesty? I was pretty lost actually. I still have the need for a glossary with a brief description of facts and myths, and even previous events in the series; the one with names was very sort this time compared to book 6, for example, and there wasn’t a list with all the names mentioned in the book. I can’t remember everything, hence the need for the glossary. (I needed to go to book 6 character’ sheet to know who Ortega —or Oteka?—and Regir were, sleipnir Harro parents).
It annoyed me the constant reference to Randr as “ugly husband”. And didn’t like one bit everyone talking about Matt and Rasmus’ intimacy. On the other side, there’s a lot of pack piling and interesting stuff. Oh, and I’m fan of Warlord Thorleif, so great.
I’m looking forward to the next book, though, but I don’t want to feel as lost as I did sometimes with the past books or this one.
«Who we are without our problems is an important answer to find in order to know ourselves».
July 20, 2024
Epic lore
There’s so much going on in this book, most of it overlapping Norse myth with the twists unique to this world. It’s all very good, but also unwieldy from the sheer number of characters and details to keep track of. Matt has done a masterful job of getting the various races working together and focused on a shared vision. Definitely not a standalone and honestly, I’m going to need another read though so I can properly grasp the newest pieces of the Vargr/Volsung puzzle.
4 1/2 stars
There’s so much going on in this book, most of it overlapping Norse myth with the twists unique to this world. It’s all very good, but also unwieldy from the sheer number of characters and details to keep track of. Matt has done a masterful job of getting the various races working together and focused on a shared vision. Definitely not a standalone and honestly, I’m going to need another read though so I can properly grasp the newest pieces of the Vargr/Volsung puzzle.
4 1/2 stars
May 25, 2024
Excellent!!
I can never say too much about this series! Events are appearing more and more often as the Alphas of All are finding their true purpose. I love that we continue to learn about what made the Völsung different from the Vargr, and how their Home was lost.
What will happen in North America and their legend of a red wolf? Will Unity be able to take hold on both continents? Is something guarding/hiding Home? And what price will be required of Wolf to return?
I can never say too much about this series! Events are appearing more and more often as the Alphas of All are finding their true purpose. I love that we continue to learn about what made the Völsung different from the Vargr, and how their Home was lost.
What will happen in North America and their legend of a red wolf? Will Unity be able to take hold on both continents? Is something guarding/hiding Home? And what price will be required of Wolf to return?
November 24, 2024
A great addition to a fantastic series. Running Ember is the 8th book in the Vargr series and continues the story of Matt and his pack which gets better the longer I read. You have to read what has come before to enjoy this book. This book has a very rich world-building and is unique. The book is filled with suspense, violence, and some angst as well as twists and turns. This book also continues the story with the other stepsiblings, the Cubi and Sleipner as well as new additions and surprises. It is a fantastic read and I couldn't put the book down. It hits all the right spots. There were a few parts that I just laughed out loud and enjoyed. If you’re looking for a book that’s gripping, spellbinding, and even sentimental at points, this could be it. I can't wait for the next book.
July 5, 2024
**A series to be read in order!**
Meraki P. Lyhne continues to astound me with the level of detail and research that goes into these books. The mythology, vast array of characters (old and new) as well as the connections that continue to arise between them all, and then just the fabulous story telling in general. Pulling together all of the information, the emotional content and internal battles that happen with several of the MC's that we follow throughout.
Skoll, Hati, Geri and Freki start on the great run where they plan to run and pull the biggest number of Vargr and Volsung to help them in prosperity for Wolf, taking back what is theirs and ensuring health and happiness for all. I love that that isn't just the supernatural creatures. Skoll and Hati's vision is for everyone but first they have to gather and head to Brussells where they will see if they will be working in harmony with the humans, or having to take by force.
There is so much that goes on in this book. One thing I think would be beneficial is something like a mini recap at the beginning of each book, just to remind readers where we left off as it takes me a minute to pick up from what happened in the last book when I read it months ago. However, that definitely does not detract from my enjoyment and draw to an intricate and intelligently written epic saga that isn't finished yet!! We have chapters from several of the characters involved in the story - Skoll, Hati, Steffen and Rasmus - and it helps to give the readers details on everything that affects the story, even as complicated as it is. Even the characters can't make sense of it some of the time so I didn't feel too bad when I felt occasionally out of my depth.
A definite must for fans of Norse mythology, an epic tale but be sure to start from the beginning of the series!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Meraki P. Lyhne continues to astound me with the level of detail and research that goes into these books. The mythology, vast array of characters (old and new) as well as the connections that continue to arise between them all, and then just the fabulous story telling in general. Pulling together all of the information, the emotional content and internal battles that happen with several of the MC's that we follow throughout.
Skoll, Hati, Geri and Freki start on the great run where they plan to run and pull the biggest number of Vargr and Volsung to help them in prosperity for Wolf, taking back what is theirs and ensuring health and happiness for all. I love that that isn't just the supernatural creatures. Skoll and Hati's vision is for everyone but first they have to gather and head to Brussells where they will see if they will be working in harmony with the humans, or having to take by force.
There is so much that goes on in this book. One thing I think would be beneficial is something like a mini recap at the beginning of each book, just to remind readers where we left off as it takes me a minute to pick up from what happened in the last book when I read it months ago. However, that definitely does not detract from my enjoyment and draw to an intricate and intelligently written epic saga that isn't finished yet!! We have chapters from several of the characters involved in the story - Skoll, Hati, Steffen and Rasmus - and it helps to give the readers details on everything that affects the story, even as complicated as it is. Even the characters can't make sense of it some of the time so I didn't feel too bad when I felt occasionally out of my depth.
A definite must for fans of Norse mythology, an epic tale but be sure to start from the beginning of the series!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
July 6, 2024
The run to the north was expected to be just that – a run to call to more alphas. HE does not go as smoothly as they wanted. Along the way they are tested by other entities also part of Norse Lore. Pack Alpha Steffan and Nol-Elakdon seemed to be the hardest hit. Look to the past allows them to puzzle out the pieces of what is happening. They continue to collect many different individuals with unity the desired result. Their run was successful so far but they need to go further if they are to unite everyone. The story is not over but still beginning in so many ways.
The most amazing thing about this series is how not just one person is key. Many are. They each have a role in uniting everyone. One of the reasons for the run was to not only call alphas but to unite with Fenrir as well. While this is a large goal, no one seems to forget the individual members. If one is hurting, they have no problem coming to their aid. It leaves us with a sense of belonging and caring we often miss today. In addition, the goal of uniting all is so admirable. They recognize that each group has their own way of looking at things and of valuing things. Communication is the key for the present success but looking at the past helps to understand the future. I am curious as to how this will all end.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and this is my very own opinion.
The most amazing thing about this series is how not just one person is key. Many are. They each have a role in uniting everyone. One of the reasons for the run was to not only call alphas but to unite with Fenrir as well. While this is a large goal, no one seems to forget the individual members. If one is hurting, they have no problem coming to their aid. It leaves us with a sense of belonging and caring we often miss today. In addition, the goal of uniting all is so admirable. They recognize that each group has their own way of looking at things and of valuing things. Communication is the key for the present success but looking at the past helps to understand the future. I am curious as to how this will all end.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and this is my very own opinion.
July 7, 2024
These books must be read in order! Anyone that starts here will be very confused. This is book 8 of the ‘Vargr’ series. The Running Ember dives deeper into Mythology behind The Vargr, Cubi, Sleipnir, Völsung, Völves, and Rigir as a whole. I’m giving it a 4.5 stars. I loved the information as a whole, and adored the mythology stand point. There will definitely be more books to come.
This book starts off where book 7 left off. Matt/Sköll and the rest are traveling north to start their run. On their where there they encounter the Jörmungander. This gives the group hope that if the Jörmungandar survived then maybe other step-siblings of the old gods survived as well. When they start the run they begin pulling in more Alphas in. Along the way their allies the Cubi run into trouble. They also find something that no one expected. It will leave them even stronger than before. There task has only gotten bigger, and they have to wonder what it’s all leading too.
I’m excited to see where this story is leading. I cannot wait for the other books to come out. It also has me curious how much longer the ‘Vargr’ series will be.
This book starts off where book 7 left off. Matt/Sköll and the rest are traveling north to start their run. On their where there they encounter the Jörmungander. This gives the group hope that if the Jörmungandar survived then maybe other step-siblings of the old gods survived as well. When they start the run they begin pulling in more Alphas in. Along the way their allies the Cubi run into trouble. They also find something that no one expected. It will leave them even stronger than before. There task has only gotten bigger, and they have to wonder what it’s all leading too.
I’m excited to see where this story is leading. I cannot wait for the other books to come out. It also has me curious how much longer the ‘Vargr’ series will be.
July 5, 2024
With each Vargr book, I've kept wondering if Lyhne could pull off another strong entry in this series. Luckily for the reader, the answer is yes, as the author continues to expand his universe with more creatures of lore as Matt and his comrades embark on the run of the North.
Once again, Lyhne has woven a fascinating fantasy tale based loosely on Norse mythology, creating a book that is at once a fantasy, an action-adventure, and even at times a philosophical treatise. And with the addition of the Valkyries and the "blue dream", it finally feels that Lyhne may finally be drawing the series to a close. But there are also some intriguing hints of a "red wolf" rising in America that could set the series in a new direction.
As this tale builds on the previous entries, it is a must to start at the beginning, but as with the other tales, it's a book that richly rewards the readers who have been there from the beginning.
Once again, Lyhne has woven a fascinating fantasy tale based loosely on Norse mythology, creating a book that is at once a fantasy, an action-adventure, and even at times a philosophical treatise. And with the addition of the Valkyries and the "blue dream", it finally feels that Lyhne may finally be drawing the series to a close. But there are also some intriguing hints of a "red wolf" rising in America that could set the series in a new direction.
As this tale builds on the previous entries, it is a must to start at the beginning, but as with the other tales, it's a book that richly rewards the readers who have been there from the beginning.
July 7, 2024
Loved the story and can’t wait for more! I just finished Running Ember and the anticipation and detail of creating a new world where there is peace and where the different species learn to live together and support for one another is nurtured and let to grow. This is a wonderful story and I loved it! I have read most of the books by Meraki P. Lyhne and I’ve never been disappointed. They take you away and immerse you in a world where Nordic lore brings a different world to life. Meraki P Lyhne rocks and I enjoy reading everything he has published so please select this book and sit back and enjoy!
July 3, 2024
This series had me intrigued from the first book. It gave a different twist on shifter stories. I like how the author provided details about this new world and also included a page listing the characters for those who might have forgotten. With Vargr, Volsung, Cubi, Sleionir, Valkyrie, and now Risen Rigr, it can be hard to keep track of who is who. The goal started out as uniting all Vargr and turned into uniting everyone! I feel like there’s an opening for another book or a spin-off series, which I cannot wait for!
July 5, 2024
Another excellent addition to this fantastic series. I cannot believe we are on the 8th book already! This book leads on from the previous book in this Vargr series and we continue to follow Matt and his pack on their journey. The authors imagination is superb and even after 8 books I found myself completely captivated! There is just so much going on in this unique, gripping plot that is full of suspense and oh so many twists and turns you just won't want to put it down!
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review.
July 7, 2024
I lost it here. Sometime in the run I started to feel confused about what was happening and even after finishing the book I`m not quite sure I grasped everything, Too many new races, too many new developments. After everything Steffen and Matt are going to go their separate ways? I can`t believe it.
I don`t understand the new races that appear here and how those new characters are so biased about new powers and instincts.
So, I want to know how this evolves, after 8 books I need to see the war over and Matt happy, but this was a difficult book for me to read.
I don`t understand the new races that appear here and how those new characters are so biased about new powers and instincts.
So, I want to know how this evolves, after 8 books I need to see the war over and Matt happy, but this was a difficult book for me to read.
July 8, 2024
I am so in love with this series. It has such amazing world building and secrets keep coming out that you have no clue even existed. Along with other mythical creatures thought to be gone but only been hiding. This world expands so much and the characters are so intricately entwined you never know what's going to happen or what secret will be revealed. I can't wait for the next book and to see what new knowledge we will gain from the past we thought buried and forgotten.
July 2, 2024
Since the beginning this world has expanded. The characters are complex and the storyline intense. Matt becomes a phenomenal leader, his abilities astounding. The unity he has achieved is awe inspiring. But, I want more! I want to immerse myself in this amazing world or words and lore. Bravo Meraki Lyhne for creating this world.
July 5, 2024
A run in the north was all they expected when they went there but they are in for a surprise. There will be secrets from the past may just ruin it all and the alphas there. What is going on? What about the alphas? How will it all go? See how it will all go
July 6, 2024
continues the series. more in-depth with our favorite characters and build desire alpha wants to unite. love how the Norse myth blends so well
July 13, 2024
A wonderful, complicated entry in the series. This one will definitely require a reread for me to catch things I'm sure I missed but that's perfectly fine with me. The details in the world building are fantastic, there are lots of characters and in this one while the author kept me fascinated with all the pieces that were coming together and answering questions, even more were being raised that will keep me coming back for more.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews