Tur

The Elsker Saga #0.5

by S.T. Bende

Inga Andersson is the envy of every girl in Asgard. On the surface she has it all -- great friends, a job as Odin’s personal fight choreographer, and a happy ever after with her realm’s hottest assassin. But when evil invades Asgard, her perfect world comes crashing down. Someone is planning to kill off the gods, and Inga’s best friend Ull is first on their list. With the Norse apocalypse a nanosecond away, Inga has to decide how she’ll spend her final moments of freedom. Because from the moment this battle begins, Inga’s happily ever after will be nothing more than a memory.

Some things are worth fighting for.

TUR is an Elsker Saga novella. It is approximately 10,000 words long.

Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Romance, New Adult, Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, Young Adult

Paperback

First published April 14, 2013

About the author

Before finding domestic bliss in suburbia, S.T. Bende lived in Manhattan Beach (where she became overly fond of Peet’s Coffee) and studied Shakespeare in Europe… where she became overly fond of McVitie's cookies.

Her Scandinavian heritage and a very patient Norwegian teacher inspired her YA Norse fantasy series' (Viking Academy, Ære Saga, Elsker Saga, and Alfheim Academy). And her deep love of a galaxy far, far away led to her writing children's books for the Star Wars franchise. As an experienced IP writer, she's written multiple books published by Disney-Lucasfilm Press and its licensees, and looks to expand into additional beloved IP projects.

When she's not creating stories, S.T. dreams of skiing on Jotunheim and Hoth.

Find S.T. on her website (www.stbende.com), her newsletter (http://smarturl.it/BendeNewsletter), or on Twitter @stbende.

Reviews

[[ J o ] · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm really unsure as to whether the author wants us to believe that what's written in these pages is what the Norse Gods are actually like-how they act and how they speak-or if it's just a complete fantasy. I presume the latter, because this was an erotic, new-adult novel with some Norse mythology thrown on top in a quite ugly pile.

It was quite beyond anything I've ever read before, from the clichés to the appalling speech of the characters, not to mention the characters themselves. I hope no-one reads this expecting to learn something of Norse mythology.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very short story but a great one! I couldn't put the book down. It has the perfect amount of humour, romance and adventure in it.
Highly recommend people to read this story!!

[Melinda Dozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yep! I'm hooked. Inga is a powerful, wise, talented goddess and I have now found my new idol. Bravo, Inga!

Tur is the prequel for the upcoming novel by STBende, Elsker. This short read is definately a teaser for what's to come. I loved the introduction to Ull, who is the hero in Elsker and his reaction to maybe meeting the love of his life in the future. ** le sigh **

The story is full of quick witty comments, fun-loving characters (who wouldn't love a kick-ass goddess!), action, and my favorite, kisses!

Better yet... it's free. Don't miss this read and prepare yourself to fall in love with Ull in Elsker!

COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS...

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a taster for the main course that is Elsker which I am excited to say I will be reviewing on Thursday as part of S.T. Bende's blog tour for the series! Promise me you'll come back to see it!!

I love Norse mythology, yes watching Thor and Loki annoy the hell out of each other does help, but awesome programmes like New Zealand's The Almighty Johnson's have really made me sit up and pay attention to my Scandinavian neighbours (well across the sea and a bit, I'm in Scotland!) along with reading books by some of their fantastic authors and watching their amazing crime drama - look up Saga Noren!

Tur is a novella and I read it in one big gulp, I loved it, first we have Inga Andersson a totally kick ass chick who is a fight choreographer, married to the insanely hot assassin Gunnar and best pals with another hot bad ass Ull. She has it all! But things are about to go downhill.

There is a lot going on in this novella but it never feels like you are bombarded with information, this story mainly deals with a plot to assassinate top God Odin and his blood line, this includes Ull, The dark elves are involved and Inga and the boys (sorry men they could never be boys, they were probably born with stubble!) go forth to make sure that doesn't happen.

At the end of the book once peace has been restored, a prophecy is mentioned, one that involves Ull meeting with his soul mate but as to what happens well you will need to read Elsker!

An awesome book and if is Elsker is as good as this one, well prepare for my gushing review on Thursday!

Tur er tildelt 5 av 5 (or for the non Norwegian speaking Tur gets 5 out of 5 - If it's wrong blame Google!)

[Autumn (Triquetra Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that cover. Mmm. Gunnar and Inga are a great couple - they're both strong, confident and their relationship is solid. I love how they seem to have a 50-50 share in sex appeal, which lately I find that many of the male main characters in books just take over. It's highly annoying and I feel it's a wrong message to send to our girls that the man HAS to be the sexy one, giving the winks and smirks. Inga knows how to get Gunnar going and isn't afraid to use her sexual power. I dig that. Very hot.

We get some insight to Ull as well. (swoon.) I love Ull, I really do. He's sexy, yet kind. Yes, he's attractive and knows this, but he's not a complete d-bag about it.

I also love Inga because she's so strong. She's a really great role model for girls to look up to - know your worth and don't back down from what you KNOW you deserve. And, knowing how to bake a great batch of cookies is always nice. <3
This was a short, sweet, totally kick-arse novella. Miss Bende warned me that there was no explicit nookie, but there were some steamy moments - she sold herself short! Gunnar is totally swoon worthy and Inga is lucky to have him. <3

[Prone to Crushes on Boys in Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tasty Teaser! A good prequel to get me interested in the series. Norse Gods, Dark Elves, fighting, humor, and mixed with a little romance. I loved Gunnar and Inga as a couple and I look forward to reading about Ull and his search for the one, Kristia.

[Andrea Heltsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! S.T. Bende has blown me away! Her concept of Norse Mythology was genius! I blew through the entire series in two days! This was the prequel and sets you up for the plot of the first book. It introduces you to the main Norse characters that are present in the series. Five glittery stars!

[Roland Clarke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and fast read - review follows when Goodreads not glitching. Great

[Cassandra Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this little tale from Inga's perspective. There's enough action and foreshadowing in here to keep the momentum of the novella going, and it seeds the romance between Ull and Kristia in the sweetest way. (That last page or two. Aww!) Ull is a very serious and intense fellow -- as you would be if you were the God of Winter being drafted into a different portfolio, one you really didn't want -- and it was fun to see Inga trying to get him to lighten up.

Inga and Gunnar are definitely the focus of the novella, though -- Inga's drive to be taken seriously as a warrior by Odin, and Gunnar's desire to, well, spend some "quality time" with Inga. This is a sweet romance though, like the rest of the series, so it fades to black at appropriate moments. Part of me regreted that, to be honest, because it was so promising. ;)

One touch that I really love in this series is that the gods are given a modern makeover. Even in Asgard they live in modern houses and wear modern clothes. It made the sprinkling of references to the more ancient parts of their world stand out even more. Fun!

I felt Inga's frustration at the blokes' desire to protect her, given what a kick-butt warrior she is. At first I thought it was old-fashioned chivalry or even sexism (she's weak; we can't let her go to battle). It was a relief to discover it was more about politics, in Odin's case at least. Gunnar on the other hand just didn't want his wife in danger; I can respect that, because who wants to see their loved ones get hurt?

Also, if this has intrigued you, here's one more thing to consider: Tur is a great opportunity to try a new author, because it's free. It can be a risky proposition buying a book by an unknown author, but you can, ah, suck it and see. (Speaking of Gunnar...)

[Lola · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tur is a great prequel to the Elsker series, this one is told from the point of view of Inga. I have no idea yet who Inga is and if there are any myths about her or not, but I know she lives among the gods. This prequel set up some things for the first book Elsker and I am really curious how this is all going to work out. The danger is introduced and this books provides a peak from the supernatural side before reading about the human girl who is going to get caught up in this all.

I liked Inga as a character, she was really stubborn, but I liked how she did everything she could to get what she want, no matter if it was fighting, argumenting or using her cooking skills as bribe. I didn’t get a good sense of who the other characters are, although the reader does learn a bit about them in this prequel, just not enough to really get who they are yet, but I am sure that we will learn more about the characters in Elsker.

As with all mythology books I had some problem grasping the world building, I know almost nothing about mythology so I always feel like I am missing some information. Nevertheless I did understand most of it, although I just have no knowlegde about the mythology behing it all. I wish there was a bit more world building, because for me there just wasn’t enough of it, but then again this is a prequel.

To conclude: Tur is a nice introduction to the Elsker saga, I liked the story and getting to know Inga. I don’t have much knowlegde about mythology so I felt like I was missing some information, but I could follow most of the story. Now on to Elsker!

[Cassie C · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is safe to say I am hooked on the Elsker series! This preview into what you can expect in Elsker is perfect for a new, inquiring reader or one that has already read the first book. For only being 53 pages, S.T. Bende manages to enthrall the reader, and make them want to read (or in my case re-read) Elsker. You instantly fall in love with Inga, Gunnar, and Ull. It was great to see what these characters were like before the events of the first book, and Ms. Bende weaves Norse mythology effortlessly into the story, which makes you only more intrigued. Inga is such a strong, confident goddess that knows what she is capable of, without being over-confident and arrogant. She is sweet and hilarious, and I absolutely love her. The writing is fantastic, and it shows in every way throughout the novella; from the characters to the setting to the mythology.

The one thing I appreciate in Inga's character is that she can hold her own, and she is seen as an equal to her husband, Gunnar. She has a very strong personality, which is something you can tell automatically, and I was happy to see that she didn't become submissive under authority or any male. In fact, she's more inclined to beat them up than give into them ;) What's better than that?

I highly recommend checking this novella out, especially if you are interested in reading the Elsker series. You won't be disappointed. Happy reading :)

[Shaili · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing!!!!
I really enjoyed reading from Inga's pov. Its a really great Prequel to Elsker. Fighting, Norses Gods, and a little romance, what else can a reader ask for? I really enjoyed this book. I found Gunner and Inga's characters really interesting and totally kick ass! these two have really strong chemistry and just WOWOWOWOW!

The story itself was written veryyyyy nicely and the myths were totally different from anything i have ever read before (in the best way ever!!) The Dialogs were totally funny, sassy, and just really hott.
I think that ST Bende did a really good job with the plot, character and just everything.

Gunner and Inga are both married and both of them are Gods. I really liked that both of them agree with each other and did not tell each other what to do. Inga's warrior side of her is just totally amazing, she kicked Dark Elves butt! Inga, I think is the ultimate package! she can be loving, romantic, caring and at the same time she can also be demanding, aggressive and totally fabulous.
Gunner! Oh my, where do I begin? Hes just soooo funny, strong and handsome, I just have no words. To bad hes taken. Damn you Inga, im sooo jealous! His love towards Inga is just unconditional and perfect. He is sooo manly and masculine it is scary.

Now, Ull, I really wanna know whats gunna happen with Kristia and him. At the end of this book , we find out that Ull has been very lonely for a very long time, which makes me want him to find this girl and live happily ever after!

Im really looking forward to the rest of these series and I hope there just as good!

[Inga · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review:

Even though Tur by S.T. Bende is a short read, it is a very good one! It captured my attention from the very first page until the last page and it kept me wanting more!

I love reading mythological fiction books and the Norse/Nordic mythology is one of my favorite ones, it's very close to my heart, so I was little anxious to see how well S.T. Bende fares with it and she did a good job! The settings were great and all the gods and creatures recognizable.

The story itself was well-written and I loved the characters! I enjoyed that Inga had such a strong personality which was fit to her husband Gunnar. Mind you, both of them are gods, but I loved that they were equals, that Inga could stand her ground, being a great warrior, smart and sassy and hot. Cool name, too! ;) Definitely a worthy partner to Gunnar - a warrior assassin. I adored Gunnar, his strenght, his love towards Inga and his sense of humor and masculinity. I have to admit, they were both very lovable and sweet and hot! The dynamics between the two of them was excellently written! I would love to have them as friends because they both had great personalities.

I think the dialogue was great in the book, it was funny, sexy, and absorbing. It had sparks and sizzles and was enjoyable to read.

An excellent and adorable novella to read! You don't want to miss it!

[Stephanie Wardrop · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Norse gods must be crazy sexist if they (or at least Odin) think they should keep Inga out of battle. She's my favorite character out of all the books I've read lately: smart, spirited, strong, and a gifted cookie baker. At the risk of upsetting anyone, I am firmly on TEAM INGAR (sorry Ul and Kristia, but Inga and Gunnar are way more fun to me). In this prequel to ENDRE, we meet Ull before her met Kristia and see Gunnar and Inga in action (and I mean ACTION) as the Elf Uprising begins. (By the way, one fun element of the series is that you get a free mini course on Norse. You, too, will be able to decipher easily that Svartalfheim means "home of the dark elves.") Inga has been assigned to study elf battle strategy but she belongs in the trenches with Gunnar and Ull. Here's Inga in action:

"Gunnar looked up and saw me dangling from a dark elf's fist. His anguished cry ripped through
the woods. `No!'
"It was equal parts adorable and insulting. I might have been minus a rapier with my own dagger jammed
against my throat, but this was nothing I couldn't handle."

You'll want to see how she handles this. And you'll want more Ingar - I know I do.

NOTE: I received a copy of this as a gift -and I am so glad I did.

[Mandy Sickle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tur is a short novella that leads up to the novel Elsker. The story is about Inga, Gunnar and Ull three very important people living in Asgard. The time has come for them to be assigned their new jobs but instead of getting her chance to be a warrior or Valkyrie Inga is to continue as a trainer instead of fighting. However she does have a chance to prove she can be a fighter when they are attacked by the dark elves handing herself admirably.

It’s refreshing to read Norse mythology it’s one of the few genre’s I don’t get to read very often but the cover of Tur was calling my name. I read Tur in one sitting unable to stop till I hit the last page it’s a fast packed action packed novella with a mix of romance and a hint at what the first book will be like. I enjoyed the characters Inga and Gunnar have great chemistry and I really liked getting a chance to see Ull. I can’t wait to read the first book because Tur is just a perfect teaser into the novel. I love reading a little back story about the characters. The author has a great writing style it’s flows smoothly it’s easy to get lost in the story. I think it’s a perfect first installment. I know I’ll be starting Elsker next.

[Sarez Tomoan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well how could I go wrong with this book? Mythology, Gods and Goddesses, all my favourite subjects. Tur serves as an introduction to the Elsker saga and introduces us to Inga, Gunner and Ull, Norse Gods and Goddesses and ssrves to provide a background into their families and the hierarchy of Asgard (where the Norse Gods live.) it was well written, intense and for such a small story (10000 words) packs a real punch. I recieved this book in exchange for an honest review however I already had it on my wanted list. The story is told from Inga's POV and the writing easily drew my i to her world and I look forward to spending more time with these Characters in Elsker.

Note: After reading Elsker I would recommend reading this book first if you are planning to read Elsker, to provide the background for the story and characters. I am glad I got to read this one first.

[Mihi Vienna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Norse Gods, War, Beginnings, Search & Love

I came across this book by my book loving friends on Facebook.
They recommended I check out this Authors books because like them I too Love all things Norse. :)
When I liked S.T. Bende's Page on their and through a post that was shared it brought me to the link for this!.
Man I am so glad I read this!.

The characters in this book are awesomely written.. My gosh I love Inga & Gunnar !! their relationship is key to awesome possibilities & fingers crossed I get to read more about it!..Although for some reason I feel attached to Ull more so, I feel like his character is so closed off he finds it impossible to open up and or willing to. I'd love to see more sides to him :)
All in all Loved this Novella and definitely am going to read the next one :) Fingers crossed for a load of books !!

Thanks S.T. Bende for a great read ..

[Tricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

TUR: ELSKER SAGA BOOK 0.5 BY: S.T. BENDE  
   Tur was a fast and fun little taste of the Norse mythology based Elsker Saga series by S.T. Bende. I am a huge fan of mythology based books, but I have really only read a few Norse based ones. I am happy to add this book to that list! The characters were interesting, Inga and Gunnar were a great couple, I especially loved Inga, she was a fierce and powerful woman and I loved that she whipped all the warriors into shape and then went home and whipped up some tasty treats for her favorite boys. I have to say I'm definitely intrigued by Ull, which works out perfectly since he is the star of the show in the next book, Elsker. I'll definitely be continuing on with this series.
 
** I received this book free for review when signing up for the Author's newsletter **

[Xan Rooyen]

To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of romances and haven't been overly enamoured with New Adult books because they tend to be more contemporary romance, which isn't my usual cup of tea. Enter Tur and Elsker and the entire series written by ST Bende!

Tur gives you a sneak peek into the world of the Elsker Saga, a world populated by Norse gods and dark elves and all things fantastical. Yay! A speculative fiction new adult story!

While Gunnar very much steals the limelight in Tur, this novella also introduces readers to the main protagonist, Ull and hints at things to come in the rest of the series - as a good prequel should. It's just enough the whet the appetite.

I strongly recommend this series for fans of new adult who are looking for a dash of the mythical in their romance.

[Roxanne Kade · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great set up to Elsker and I liked that it was more Inga's story because it gave me a chance to get to know some of the secondary characters in the main story. It also gave me a chance to see the relationship between Inga, Gunnar and Ull, and their time on Asgard as warriors. Inga kicked ass and I could understand why she was so frustrated by Orin. Even after proving just how fierce she was he wasn't willing to give her what she wanted.




This story also gave me a sense of how lonely Ull was and why it was so important for them to travel to Earth to meet Kristia. My heart mealted when Inga thought back to the moment Ull saw Kristia's file, and I was super excited to dive right into their love story.

[Isidora Castillo rabanal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I already wrote about how I liked Inga and Gunnar, so I was very happy to read this novella. They seem like the perfect couple, happy with each other after years of spending time togeather. I would really like to know how they met! Maybe that could be material for another novella.
It was really interesting to have a glimpse of Asgaard, how the gods live, and how everything started (although it was not enough!). It really helps to understand some details in Elsker, although you can read both of them separately and still understand.
Fun, fast-paced and full of action!

[Vivian · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5

So this is just really short, and light. I didn't really relate to the characters. I couldn't imagine them as real. I LOVE mythology and was very excited to find this series, but it just didn't work for me. I feel like the author had a really good idea, but relied too much on the history of the characters (and her love for them) and didn't end up writing them with much depth. I do like this novella more than the first book in the series because I actually wanted to know more about the characters' background (which didn't happen at all in Elsker), but overall, not for me.

[Shelly Wygant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great fun, fast paced and action packed prequel. It was great to see the friendship between Gunner, Inga, and Ull. We see into their lives as the prepare for a battle. All three of them stand side by side in battle and kick some a$$. The ending leads up to what happens on Elsker.

Short read but full of action and some steamy scenes between Gunner and Inga.

I received a gift copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this short story! I loved all the action and being inside of Inga's head. She's such a great character and I really liked the banter she has with the boys (Ull and Gunnar). I also became a member of the Gunnar Fan Club in this book. Inga and him are such a cute couple. The ending did make me cry a little. ;)
I can't wait to read more books by ST Bende!

[Bookphenomena (Micky) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read this out of order. Elsker first then Tur but it didn't matter. I loved this it was short but gave back story and understanding to the main novel. S.t. Bende is a new discovery for me but I really enjoy her writing style and my shared love of all Norweigen things doesn't hurt. Brilliant, bring on the next.

[AnnMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a Novella there was a surprising amount of information in this book which sets the scene ready for future books in the series. I thoroughly enjoyed being introduced to the characters, and already feel an affinity to them. The first book in the series...Elsker, can't come soon enough. I definitely recommend this book.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness. Yes, Gunnar is definitely the Norse god for me. Playful, fun, bad-ass, and just a bit cheeky. *sigh*

This prequel to the Elsker Saga is fast paced and fun. Inga is such a strong character, and I loved seeing the pre-Kristia relationship between these three Asgardian best friends.

An awesome short read from ST Bende.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inga is probably my favourite character in the Elsker Saga, and this prequel was a wonderful little look into her life pre-Elsker. Emphasis, sadly, on the little! I can't wait for the next installment. :D

[Felicia Semmler · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great start to this series. In this quick novella you fall in love with Inga, Gunner and Ul.l I can't wait to read more of Ull's story within this novella you want to find out more about him and why he is so lonely and guarded.

[Jenny - Book Sojourner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great prequel novella! I loved Inga, Gunnar, and Ull. Great mix of action, humor, friendship, love, sexiness, and suspense. It's amazing how few pages it took to hook me into this series. I'm ready to start Elsker!