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The Huntress #4
The Valkyrie
One year of her life stolen. One year held in the cruel hands of an evil captor. But Isa Bjorndottir was home now. Free. And it was time to recover. If not for herself, then for her mother. The new Shieldmaiden was facing enough without her wayward daughter falling apart at every turn. She just needed to hold on. To endure just as she had when she was taken. As long as there were no new surprises.
After almost a decade of running, Reidar Gunnarsen was one small task away from leaving the shores of the Northlands forever. All he had to do was locate an elusive hoard of treasure and sneak aboard a longboat. Easy enough with all he'd faced in his life. The plan was solid, as long as there were no new surprises.
510 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 13, 2025
80 people are currently reading
1031 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Cotten
9 books385 followersCarrie is a Louisiana born, Texas transplant and recent North Carolina resident. She earned her BA in English from East Texas Baptist University where she met and fell in love at first sight with her hunky husband, Jeffrey Craig Cotten.
After a short tour in Alaska with the Army, Carrie and Jeff returned to Texas to start a family. Fifteen years and four kids later, they answered God's call to enter the ministry, embarking on a wild adventure that led them to the Appalachian mountains.
When Carrie isn't writing, you can find her cuddling a chicken, petting a pig or snuggling a sheep on their small family farm. She loves the freedom they've found in homeschooling and the unlimited opportunities to explore the mountains. Camping, farming, and watching movies are some of their favorite family activities. Carrie and Jeff serve together at a small church where Jeff is the youth pastor.
Her favorite thing to do is steal a quiet moment to sit on her front porch and take in the most beautiful view she's ever seen in her life.
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December 3, 2025
“The blade you wield is your kind heart. The arrows you fire are your quiet endurance. A true and mighty weapon indeed, for there is no power of darkness that can defeat it.”
⋆౨ৎ《Now playing: YET by The King Will Come》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀My Thoughts❀°~
This book was one of my most anticipated releases of this year. I was worried that I wouldn't end up loving it as much as I had hoped and that I had overhyped it to myself, but I was extremely pleased to say that it didn't disappoint me at all! It was amazing!!
To be honest, it was difficult reading this story, though, just because of the difficult and mature things one of the main characters had to go through, but I found it to be very inspiring when though I've never been through anything like she had gone through, and I really think that anyone who might have gone through something like that would be even more inspired and encouraged by this book than I was if they're willing to give reading it a go.
I loved the faith scenes so much! I think they are especially good to read for anyone who is struggling in their faith and/or newer to being a Christian, but even if you're not, they're still really great!
The characters and writing was great, too! I loved how the book ended and how certain secrets and other things were revealed, too, and overall this was a pretty strong book all around that I very much would recommend! It's definitely now one of my favorites!!
⋆౨ৎ《God. Don't give up on me yet
I know I'm not your best bet》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Characters❀°~
Isa: No one will ever know just how badly I wished I could give her a hug and make things better for her. 😭 I loved her character, though, and how she grew and all that, though!
Reider: Reider the man he is 🤭 He was amazing! Although there was a part of me that was a bit wary of him because of some things he did/was doing, plus because he obviously had some secrets from his past that lowkey worried me… but I did love just how all that was revealed and all that. But yeah, he's definitely an amazing character that I need more of. He was so caring and I absolutely loved it when he gave her a special nickname! 🥰🤭
⋆౨ৎ《But, I'm trying
So, don't give up on me yet》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Book Cover Rating❀°~
8/10 Love it! Honestly, I think purple was such a great choice of color for this book. It fits it perfectly in my opinion!
⋆౨ৎ《And God. Don't leave me here alone
I know I need to grow, still》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Content Warnings❀°~
(Warning! 🚨 Before you go any further, there is a chance that something I've said about the content will possibly be a bit spoilerish, so please proceed with caution! Also, if I missed any content, please let me know so I can add it!)
☆Trigger Warnings:
The female main character was kidnapped and abused off page, but it is mentioned frequently, and she has like, PTSD from it, so that could be triggering to anyone who was in a situation like it. (If you were in a situation when somewhat like that, I just want you to know that I'm praying for you! And although I've never been through anything like that, my PMs are always open if you need someone to talk to! 🫶🏻)
☆Faith based/Christian:
Praying, going to church, talking about God, character getting saved, listening to a pastor (called a Storyteller if I remember correctly) preaching.
☆Other Religious Content:
Mentions of other gods, and of formerly worshipping them, and some people wanting to go back to them.
☆Violence:
Kidnappings (first one off page for the most part, although it might have started a teensy bit on page at the end of the Prologue, but it's mentioned a good bit in the later scenes. Second one is off page, but we do follow the character into captivity). A character is forced to walk in chains (off page, barely detailed, only mentioned in later scenes). Mentions of wars and battles. Mentions of characters' deaths and wounds (not detailed). Mentions of a character getting beaten up (off page, not detailed, only mentioned in later scenes). Characters threatening other characters. Slapping (barely detailed). A character is charged with murdering another character and faces an execution order. A couple of buildings are burned down (off page). A character talks about wanting to break someone's will/spirit/something like that, and make her more submissive. Some characters thought that another character was trying to unalive herself (and if I remember correctly she says she had thought about it in the past, too)
☆Sexual Content/Romance:
Kissing (up to semi-detailed), forced kisses (not on page, only mentioned later and not detailed), wanting to kiss someone, thinking about kissing someone. Flirting. Mentions of someone having someone else force themselves on them. Mentions of a character being sold to someone else and it's implied that they were forced on (they were also beaten, too.) A character gets called a “refuse” (I'm assuming it's used like the word “whore” or “prostitute”?). A character talks about forcing another character to marry him. A character gets pregnant out of wedlock. A character gives birth (mostly on page, although the actual delivery isn't. It goes up to barely detailed or semi-detailed) and there's only a man there to help her (it's not like, super weird to read like, inappropriate wise, like it's not too bad even though it's a bit uncomfortable to think about). Fake marriage. Real marriage for safety reasons that I won’t spoil (although she was offered a way out of it eventually). Towards the end it's mentioned that a wife is ready to give herself to her husband as married couples do, if you know what I mean.
☆Magic:
None
☆Bad Language:
None
☆LGBTQ+:
None
☆Drugs/Alcohol:
Mentions of men drinking and getting drunk. (All off page)
No drugs that I remember.
☆Miscellaneous:
N/A
⋆౨ৎ《And I'm trying
Don't leave me here alone》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀My Age Recommendation❀°~
18 years old and older due to the many mentions of mature content. But if you are
⋆౨ৎ《I know I've come so far
But got so far to go》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Part of a series?❀°~
This is the fourth book in the The Huntresses series by Carrie Cotton. They can all be read as standalones, but they are connecting because you do see or hear about the main characters from previous books again, so I would suggest reading them in order.
⋆౨ৎ《And with these brand-new scars
And this broken heart》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Will I read the rest of the series/more from this author?❀°~
I absolutely will as soon as I can!! All of the other books in The Huntresses series sound very intriguing, so I'm really looking forward to getting to read them!
⋆౨ৎ《It's hard to really know
If there's a reason》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~❀Would I re-read this book?❀°~
Yes, definitely!!
⋆౨ৎ《And if I'll ever see it
But, I wanna believe it》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Books similar to this one❀°~
If you want medieval times feeling books I'd recommend checking out Melanie Dickerson. I don't have any like, Viking-ish type feeling book recs or anything yet, but if y'all have read any books that you think might be similar please tell me them!! 🫶🏻
⋆౨ৎ《So, don't give up on me yet》˚⟡˖ ࣪
⋆౨ৎ《Now playing: YET by The King Will Come》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀My Thoughts❀°~
This book was one of my most anticipated releases of this year. I was worried that I wouldn't end up loving it as much as I had hoped and that I had overhyped it to myself, but I was extremely pleased to say that it didn't disappoint me at all! It was amazing!!
To be honest, it was difficult reading this story, though, just because of the difficult and mature things one of the main characters had to go through, but I found it to be very inspiring when though I've never been through anything like she had gone through, and I really think that anyone who might have gone through something like that would be even more inspired and encouraged by this book than I was if they're willing to give reading it a go.
I loved the faith scenes so much! I think they are especially good to read for anyone who is struggling in their faith and/or newer to being a Christian, but even if you're not, they're still really great!
The characters and writing was great, too! I loved how the book ended and how certain secrets and other things were revealed, too, and overall this was a pretty strong book all around that I very much would recommend! It's definitely now one of my favorites!!
⋆౨ৎ《God. Don't give up on me yet
I know I'm not your best bet》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Characters❀°~
Isa: No one will ever know just how badly I wished I could give her a hug and make things better for her. 😭 I loved her character, though, and how she grew and all that, though!
Reider: Reider the man he is 🤭 He was amazing! Although there was a part of me that was a bit wary of him because of some things he did/was doing, plus because he obviously had some secrets from his past that lowkey worried me… but I did love just how all that was revealed and all that. But yeah, he's definitely an amazing character that I need more of. He was so caring and I absolutely loved it when he gave her a special nickname! 🥰🤭
⋆౨ৎ《But, I'm trying
So, don't give up on me yet》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Book Cover Rating❀°~
8/10 Love it! Honestly, I think purple was such a great choice of color for this book. It fits it perfectly in my opinion!
⋆౨ৎ《And God. Don't leave me here alone
I know I need to grow, still》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Content Warnings❀°~
(Warning! 🚨 Before you go any further, there is a chance that something I've said about the content will possibly be a bit spoilerish, so please proceed with caution! Also, if I missed any content, please let me know so I can add it!)
☆Trigger Warnings:
The female main character was kidnapped and abused off page, but it is mentioned frequently, and she has like, PTSD from it, so that could be triggering to anyone who was in a situation like it. (If you were in a situation when somewhat like that, I just want you to know that I'm praying for you! And although I've never been through anything like that, my PMs are always open if you need someone to talk to! 🫶🏻)
☆Faith based/Christian:
Praying, going to church, talking about God, character getting saved, listening to a pastor (called a Storyteller if I remember correctly) preaching.
☆Other Religious Content:
Mentions of other gods, and of formerly worshipping them, and some people wanting to go back to them.
☆Violence:
Kidnappings (first one off page for the most part, although it might have started a teensy bit on page at the end of the Prologue, but it's mentioned a good bit in the later scenes. Second one is off page, but we do follow the character into captivity). A character is forced to walk in chains (off page, barely detailed, only mentioned in later scenes). Mentions of wars and battles. Mentions of characters' deaths and wounds (not detailed). Mentions of a character getting beaten up (off page, not detailed, only mentioned in later scenes). Characters threatening other characters. Slapping (barely detailed). A character is charged with murdering another character and faces an execution order. A couple of buildings are burned down (off page). A character talks about wanting to break someone's will/spirit/something like that, and make her more submissive. Some characters thought that another character was trying to unalive herself (and if I remember correctly she says she had thought about it in the past, too)
☆Sexual Content/Romance:
Kissing (up to semi-detailed), forced kisses (not on page, only mentioned later and not detailed), wanting to kiss someone, thinking about kissing someone. Flirting. Mentions of someone having someone else force themselves on them. Mentions of a character being sold to someone else and it's implied that they were forced on (they were also beaten, too.) A character gets called a “refuse” (I'm assuming it's used like the word “whore” or “prostitute”?). A character talks about forcing another character to marry him. A character gets pregnant out of wedlock. A character gives birth (mostly on page, although the actual delivery isn't. It goes up to barely detailed or semi-detailed) and there's only a man there to help her (it's not like, super weird to read like, inappropriate wise, like it's not too bad even though it's a bit uncomfortable to think about). Fake marriage. Real marriage for safety reasons that I won’t spoil (although she was offered a way out of it eventually). Towards the end it's mentioned that a wife is ready to give herself to her husband as married couples do, if you know what I mean.
☆Magic:
None
☆Bad Language:
None
☆LGBTQ+:
None
☆Drugs/Alcohol:
Mentions of men drinking and getting drunk. (All off page)
No drugs that I remember.
☆Miscellaneous:
N/A
⋆౨ৎ《And I'm trying
Don't leave me here alone》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀My Age Recommendation❀°~
18 years old and older due to the many mentions of mature content. But if you are
⋆౨ৎ《I know I've come so far
But got so far to go》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Part of a series?❀°~
This is the fourth book in the The Huntresses series by Carrie Cotton. They can all be read as standalones, but they are connecting because you do see or hear about the main characters from previous books again, so I would suggest reading them in order.
⋆౨ৎ《And with these brand-new scars
And this broken heart》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Will I read the rest of the series/more from this author?❀°~
I absolutely will as soon as I can!! All of the other books in The Huntresses series sound very intriguing, so I'm really looking forward to getting to read them!
⋆౨ৎ《It's hard to really know
If there's a reason》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~❀Would I re-read this book?❀°~
Yes, definitely!!
⋆౨ৎ《And if I'll ever see it
But, I wanna believe it》˚⟡˖ ࣪
~°❀Books similar to this one❀°~
If you want medieval times feeling books I'd recommend checking out Melanie Dickerson. I don't have any like, Viking-ish type feeling book recs or anything yet, but if y'all have read any books that you think might be similar please tell me them!! 🫶🏻
⋆౨ৎ《So, don't give up on me yet》˚⟡˖ ࣪
September 30, 2025
6 stars!!!!!!
Oh. My. Gosh. This is one of the BEST books I've ever read in my whole life! I've been putting off writing this review because I really want to do this book justice and I'm scared I wouldn't.
This book is an absolute masterpiece! I don't have a single critique or complaint about it. The plot was absolutely amazing, the pacing was good, and the ending was so satisfying. The writing was so good and had me hooked. The way Carrie Cotten writes plot twists is phenomenal. I was so shocked with finding out who was related to who and just by the twists in general.
This book had me literally laughing out loud, crying, and covering my mouth in shock. I have NEVER felt so much emotion while reading a book and I loved every second of it.
All the characters were so well written and amazing. I love the side characters like Randi and The widow Freya (she was so funny) and the main characters were some of the best I've ever read of! Reidar was so sweet and protective of Isa.🥹 He said some really funny and charming things, like he had me literally giggling and I'm not really one to do that. Carrie KNOWS how to write a man, I'll just say that. He also had me crying and I was so happy for him.😭 Isa is I think my favorite fmc. She was so incredibly strong. The way her healing was portrayed was so beautiful and I was literally so proud of her. Her growth was phenomenal and so inspiring. I find myself choosing gratitude more than I didn't before reading this book. Like tell me why it's literally changed my life. The way Isa treated others was so admirable and the strength she showed through her faith in God and her healing was absolutely beautiful. She was so much stronger than I would ever be able to be in her situation while still being so real. Also the villain of this story was absolutely despicable, I've never despised a character more.😡
Like I kinda said above, the faith content was wonderful. The way God's love, the joy, strength and healing that comes from Him, and just who He is in general was portrayed perfectly and was so moving.
I'm not exaggerating when I say this book was life changing. I think about it literally every day and already what to reread it. It was a perfect conclusion to the series but I would love more books or even just some novellas in it.🤭 Please Carrie, I'm not ready to move on from this series.🙏🏻😩 If you only ever take one recommendation from me, let it be this series. Please read it!
Oh. My. Gosh. This is one of the BEST books I've ever read in my whole life! I've been putting off writing this review because I really want to do this book justice and I'm scared I wouldn't.
This book is an absolute masterpiece! I don't have a single critique or complaint about it. The plot was absolutely amazing, the pacing was good, and the ending was so satisfying. The writing was so good and had me hooked. The way Carrie Cotten writes plot twists is phenomenal. I was so shocked with finding out who was related to who and just by the twists in general.
This book had me literally laughing out loud, crying, and covering my mouth in shock. I have NEVER felt so much emotion while reading a book and I loved every second of it.
All the characters were so well written and amazing. I love the side characters like Randi and The widow Freya (she was so funny) and the main characters were some of the best I've ever read of! Reidar was so sweet and protective of Isa.🥹 He said some really funny and charming things, like he had me literally giggling and I'm not really one to do that. Carrie KNOWS how to write a man, I'll just say that. He also had me crying and I was so happy for him.😭 Isa is I think my favorite fmc. She was so incredibly strong. The way her healing was portrayed was so beautiful and I was literally so proud of her. Her growth was phenomenal and so inspiring. I find myself choosing gratitude more than I didn't before reading this book. Like tell me why it's literally changed my life. The way Isa treated others was so admirable and the strength she showed through her faith in God and her healing was absolutely beautiful. She was so much stronger than I would ever be able to be in her situation while still being so real. Also the villain of this story was absolutely despicable, I've never despised a character more.😡
Like I kinda said above, the faith content was wonderful. The way God's love, the joy, strength and healing that comes from Him, and just who He is in general was portrayed perfectly and was so moving.
I'm not exaggerating when I say this book was life changing. I think about it literally every day and already what to reread it. It was a perfect conclusion to the series but I would love more books or even just some novellas in it.🤭 Please Carrie, I'm not ready to move on from this series.🙏🏻😩 If you only ever take one recommendation from me, let it be this series. Please read it!
October 18, 2025
Each book in this series gets better and better...and the first book was absolutely amazing!
Isa's story absolutely broke my heart, but the healing was realistically and masterfully done. There were serious struggles that she didn't get over right away just because of her faith in Jesus. It took time and patience from those around her. Which is where our fearless hero Reidar comes in.
Reidar, oh Reidar, you thief with a heart of gold. His backstory was heartbreaking as well but for different reasons. But he was so likable from the very beginning.
Their relationship unfolded naturally over the course of a year. Nothing was rushed with them and this truly was a strangers to friends to lovers romance. The ways Reidar cared for Isa often had tears springing to my eyes. And then how she was there for him at the end...their entire friendship was so touching.
The faith was absolutely magnificent. Chef's kiss. This story was saturated with the gospel message but never came off as "preachy." I came away from this book encouraged in my own faith and wanting to be more open about sharing Jesus with others.
If the first three books were solid five stars, this book is a ten star read to me! I highly recommend this book (and entire series) to anyone who enjoys a Christian medieval romantasy!
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+++
💋 💋
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
16+
Isa's story absolutely broke my heart, but the healing was realistically and masterfully done. There were serious struggles that she didn't get over right away just because of her faith in Jesus. It took time and patience from those around her. Which is where our fearless hero Reidar comes in.
Reidar, oh Reidar, you thief with a heart of gold. His backstory was heartbreaking as well but for different reasons. But he was so likable from the very beginning.
Their relationship unfolded naturally over the course of a year. Nothing was rushed with them and this truly was a strangers to friends to lovers romance. The ways Reidar cared for Isa often had tears springing to my eyes. And then how she was there for him at the end...their entire friendship was so touching.
The faith was absolutely magnificent. Chef's kiss. This story was saturated with the gospel message but never came off as "preachy." I came away from this book encouraged in my own faith and wanting to be more open about sharing Jesus with others.
If the first three books were solid five stars, this book is a ten star read to me! I highly recommend this book (and entire series) to anyone who enjoys a Christian medieval romantasy!
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+++
💋 💋
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
16+
June 2, 2025
"𝙃𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙃𝙞𝙢, 𝙃𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪."
Somehow, this author makes you feel sad, happy, joy, and completely torn up all at the same time. 😅
This book is full of past trauma to healing, friends to lovers, medieval battles, and so much amazing faith content. That's always my favorite part about @authorcarriecotten's books. 🩷 Her books will always make you cry, laugh, and question everything in your life, especially if your faith is strong enough, because you'll want what they have in these books. 🩷
If you enjoy clean, closed-door medieval books that WILL change your life, then I recommend this whole series!
ℹ️ Content guide: I would recommend this one for older readers, it's very careful how it's written, but the main character has went through past trauma and been raped multiple times.
Somehow, this author makes you feel sad, happy, joy, and completely torn up all at the same time. 😅
This book is full of past trauma to healing, friends to lovers, medieval battles, and so much amazing faith content. That's always my favorite part about @authorcarriecotten's books. 🩷 Her books will always make you cry, laugh, and question everything in your life, especially if your faith is strong enough, because you'll want what they have in these books. 🩷
If you enjoy clean, closed-door medieval books that WILL change your life, then I recommend this whole series!
ℹ️ Content guide: I would recommend this one for older readers, it's very careful how it's written, but the main character has went through past trauma and been raped multiple times.
January 28, 2025
Quite possibly my favorite of the series. Full review to follow
May 1, 2025
The Valkyrie by @authorcarriecotten
Book 4 in The Huntress series
Release date 5/13
Reidar + Isa
I loved this beautiful story. Each book in this series seems to get better & better. I feel as if my review will not do it justice so please read it! Isa has been through so much and has been assigned a bodyguard. Reidar is very unexpected 😉 I’m so serious when I say this story felt so real for me. It was so thorough and I felt like I was lacking nothing at the end. The time it took for Isa to trust him and how patient and gentle he was with her. He is gentle but don’t be fooled - he would cut off every man’s hand in the village for her. The moment whenever Isa tells him that heaven is aching for him. Wow, just wow. How does Carrie come up with this? And then the stones that Isa kept with her. So deeply moving. After reading this I definitely agree that Reidar has a thing for precious jewels. This book is a masterpiece. I am so thankful to have read this one!
Favorite quotes -
“ I am angry, Isa. Beyond angry…I am…there are not words for what I feel. But it is for you. Not at you. Every time you apologize for existing, I want to carve the heart from every person who made you feel it is necessary.” “But you barely know me.” “I know enough to hate what you have suffered.”
He narrowed his eyes at her, seeming to read her mind. “You do not have to go inside, but I need you to stay right here, Valkyrie.” “Why do you call me that?” She found herself moving toward his beckoning fingers. “Because there is fight inside you yet .”
His gaze returned to Isa. Her moon-white hair, her ice-blue eyes, the soft crimson stain on her cheeks. But more than her beauty, there was what lay inside—a quiet, enduring bravery. She was a treasure.
“There is no distance He would not go to redeem you, Reidar. No depth He would not reach to pull you free.”
Content -
Past trauma /SA - off page, non descriptive
Violence
Kissing only
Pregnancy and birth
Sickness/Plague
Loss of a parent, siblings
Grief
Anxiety/panic attack
Book 4 in The Huntress series
Release date 5/13
Reidar + Isa
I loved this beautiful story. Each book in this series seems to get better & better. I feel as if my review will not do it justice so please read it! Isa has been through so much and has been assigned a bodyguard. Reidar is very unexpected 😉 I’m so serious when I say this story felt so real for me. It was so thorough and I felt like I was lacking nothing at the end. The time it took for Isa to trust him and how patient and gentle he was with her. He is gentle but don’t be fooled - he would cut off every man’s hand in the village for her. The moment whenever Isa tells him that heaven is aching for him. Wow, just wow. How does Carrie come up with this? And then the stones that Isa kept with her. So deeply moving. After reading this I definitely agree that Reidar has a thing for precious jewels. This book is a masterpiece. I am so thankful to have read this one!
Favorite quotes -
“ I am angry, Isa. Beyond angry…I am…there are not words for what I feel. But it is for you. Not at you. Every time you apologize for existing, I want to carve the heart from every person who made you feel it is necessary.” “But you barely know me.” “I know enough to hate what you have suffered.”
He narrowed his eyes at her, seeming to read her mind. “You do not have to go inside, but I need you to stay right here, Valkyrie.” “Why do you call me that?” She found herself moving toward his beckoning fingers. “Because there is fight inside you yet .”
His gaze returned to Isa. Her moon-white hair, her ice-blue eyes, the soft crimson stain on her cheeks. But more than her beauty, there was what lay inside—a quiet, enduring bravery. She was a treasure.
“There is no distance He would not go to redeem you, Reidar. No depth He would not reach to pull you free.”
Content -
Past trauma /SA - off page, non descriptive
Violence
Kissing only
Pregnancy and birth
Sickness/Plague
Loss of a parent, siblings
Grief
Anxiety/panic attack
May 12, 2025
Every time I read a book in this series I think ‘This is my all time favorite; there is no way Carrie can top this.’ Then she writes another story and I am flabbergasted. She continues to raise the bar with each new installment and that bar is ridiculously high already. I am in awe!
We first met Isa in The Viking. And her story is an extremely difficult one. But it is one of such beauty. Achingly so. One that will move you deeply. There is pain, healing, tenderness, and patience, not only for Isa, but for Reidar also. These two characters draw strength from another. I’m not going to spoil your experience with any details, you need to read it!
Carrie has written a stunningly beautiful and powerful story. I cannot recommend in enough. It is a must read for anyone who loves Christian historical fiction. Thank you @authorcarriecotten for allowing me to be a part of your fabulous team. It’s an honor and a pleasure!
We first met Isa in The Viking. And her story is an extremely difficult one. But it is one of such beauty. Achingly so. One that will move you deeply. There is pain, healing, tenderness, and patience, not only for Isa, but for Reidar also. These two characters draw strength from another. I’m not going to spoil your experience with any details, you need to read it!
Carrie has written a stunningly beautiful and powerful story. I cannot recommend in enough. It is a must read for anyone who loves Christian historical fiction. Thank you @authorcarriecotten for allowing me to be a part of your fabulous team. It’s an honor and a pleasure!
May 13, 2025
Another heart-pounding, heart-tugging read from Carrie Cotten, The Valkyrie is medieval Christian historical fiction bulging with tons of action, twists, faith, and swoony romance. An excellent addition to the Huntress series - highly recommend!
June 1, 2025
Amazing! The Valkyrie definitely lived up to the standard of the series and I couldn't have asked for a better ending ❤️
September 5, 2025
Picking a favorite in this series is impossible but this one had me ugly crying over the love and redemption in this story! ❤️
May 13, 2025
“If I have learned anything in all that I have seen in my long years, especially since I came to know The Christ, it is that He can take what was meant to destroy and turn it into the greatest joy.”
I admire Carrie for writing this beautiful story that handles some really challenging topics and discusses healing and our response to trauma. Isa has suffered abuse and is keeping to herself trying to heal. Reidar is running from his past, meets Isa and becomes her guard to keep her safe.
I love that this book shows the truth about God in our suffering and how God brings life from death, turns curses into blessings.
The love story was beautiful. Reidar is gentle and patient. He values Isa’s voice and choice. I loved their “punches” & questions.
There were some funny moments too!
“I told you I would get you back for setting that evil feline loose on me.”
“Did you throw a potato at me?”
I also really loved seeing my favorite characters from another book!
Favorite Quotes:
“You are safe with me.”
“I need you to stay right here, Valkyrie.”
“Why do you call me that?”
“Because there is fight inside you yet.”
“The Christ seeks after outcasts. He sees value where others only see ruin.”
“You can be scared and strong at the same time. And I am here. You are not alone.”
"Is that not the essence of a warrior? It is not that she is always victorious, but never stops fighting?"
Thank you to the author for this ARC. These are my honest thoughts and opinions. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I admire Carrie for writing this beautiful story that handles some really challenging topics and discusses healing and our response to trauma. Isa has suffered abuse and is keeping to herself trying to heal. Reidar is running from his past, meets Isa and becomes her guard to keep her safe.
I love that this book shows the truth about God in our suffering and how God brings life from death, turns curses into blessings.
The love story was beautiful. Reidar is gentle and patient. He values Isa’s voice and choice. I loved their “punches” & questions.
There were some funny moments too!
“I told you I would get you back for setting that evil feline loose on me.”
“Did you throw a potato at me?”
I also really loved seeing my favorite characters from another book!
Favorite Quotes:
“You are safe with me.”
“I need you to stay right here, Valkyrie.”
“Why do you call me that?”
“Because there is fight inside you yet.”
“The Christ seeks after outcasts. He sees value where others only see ruin.”
“You can be scared and strong at the same time. And I am here. You are not alone.”
"Is that not the essence of a warrior? It is not that she is always victorious, but never stops fighting?"
Thank you to the author for this ARC. These are my honest thoughts and opinions. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
May 17, 2025
There’s something about closing the last page of a beautifully written, heart tugging story that makes you do it slowly, almost reverently. This book tugged, it made me feel, it made me smile.
I love this series so much. This is fourth of a powerful line up of strong women facing foes bigger than themselves but not bigger than their Faith. Each book has been masterfully written and this one did not disappoint.
Isa is a beautifully broken character and Reider is sunshine and overprotectiveness. They are perfect together.
Things I loved:
“He might not change the past, but if you let him, He will change you.”
The potato throwing
The settlement claiming Reider as their own.
“Those little stones were a reminder that though she might be small and powerless, her God was mighty.”
“He knew she wasn’t broken, only bent a little.”
TW: Sexual Assault(in the past), violence, discussion of abuse
I love this series so much. This is fourth of a powerful line up of strong women facing foes bigger than themselves but not bigger than their Faith. Each book has been masterfully written and this one did not disappoint.
Isa is a beautifully broken character and Reider is sunshine and overprotectiveness. They are perfect together.
Things I loved:
“He might not change the past, but if you let him, He will change you.”
The potato throwing
The settlement claiming Reider as their own.
“Those little stones were a reminder that though she might be small and powerless, her God was mighty.”
“He knew she wasn’t broken, only bent a little.”
TW: Sexual Assault(in the past), violence, discussion of abuse
September 19, 2025
My favorite one in the series. Isa went through so much trauma but seeing her embrace Christ and lean on him for healing was so powerful. And Riedar was exactly what she needed through her trial.
May 30, 2025
I finished this books days ago and am still thinking upon it! Please excuse me while I delineate the effect this book can have on the reader.
One of the things I love most about this book is that it was emotionally cleansing. Have you ever just needed a good cry to reset? To allow yourself to experience feelings to start fresh? This book is like that. Incredibly emotional, but in the absolute best way possible!
Carrie has the ability to write epic tales of survival and heroism while seamlessly intertwining how faith in Jesus Christ can play a pivotal role in our lives, if we let him.
This story hit home in so many small ways: we don’t always get to choose our circumstances. We cannot always help ourselves through trials. We can be a helping hand, even when life is at its worst. Small mementos can have great impact. Sharing the burden makes them more bearable. I could go on, but will get back to the story itself:
Isa is a warrior! What I love most about that is that she is not a warrior in the traditional sense. Yes, she hones how to physically fight, but it is her journey from brokenness to finding her indomitable spirit and determination to do right that earns her the moniker “My Valkyrie.”
Reidar is the type of man I hope my daughters find! His repeated mantra, “you are safe with me,” is what every woman should experience! His tenderness in guarding and guiding Isa is something that should be celebrated and cherished! He alone had the ability to help her heal and it was glorious to watch!
Just when I felt like the story was at a good place, something unexpected would happen. There were moments that my jaw literally dropped. I loved this tale kept me on my toes, feeling feelings, and was so engrossing I had to keep reading!
Read this book if you like:
🪽 Epic Tales
🪽 Christian Fiction
🪽 Dual POV
🪽 Healing
🪽 Thievery
🪽 Sunlight
🪽 Family Lost & Found
🪽 Serving the Clan
🪽 Stones
🪽 Little Life
🪽 Floating
🪽 Hope
🪽 Faith
🪽 Timing
Content: references to and memories of past trauma (SA- not graphic or detailed; enough for context), pregnancy and birth, sickness/plague, learning to trust again, romance- kisses only.
Thank you to Carrie Cotten for the #gifted copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
One of the things I love most about this book is that it was emotionally cleansing. Have you ever just needed a good cry to reset? To allow yourself to experience feelings to start fresh? This book is like that. Incredibly emotional, but in the absolute best way possible!
Carrie has the ability to write epic tales of survival and heroism while seamlessly intertwining how faith in Jesus Christ can play a pivotal role in our lives, if we let him.
This story hit home in so many small ways: we don’t always get to choose our circumstances. We cannot always help ourselves through trials. We can be a helping hand, even when life is at its worst. Small mementos can have great impact. Sharing the burden makes them more bearable. I could go on, but will get back to the story itself:
Isa is a warrior! What I love most about that is that she is not a warrior in the traditional sense. Yes, she hones how to physically fight, but it is her journey from brokenness to finding her indomitable spirit and determination to do right that earns her the moniker “My Valkyrie.”
Reidar is the type of man I hope my daughters find! His repeated mantra, “you are safe with me,” is what every woman should experience! His tenderness in guarding and guiding Isa is something that should be celebrated and cherished! He alone had the ability to help her heal and it was glorious to watch!
Just when I felt like the story was at a good place, something unexpected would happen. There were moments that my jaw literally dropped. I loved this tale kept me on my toes, feeling feelings, and was so engrossing I had to keep reading!
Read this book if you like:
🪽 Epic Tales
🪽 Christian Fiction
🪽 Dual POV
🪽 Healing
🪽 Thievery
🪽 Sunlight
🪽 Family Lost & Found
🪽 Serving the Clan
🪽 Stones
🪽 Little Life
🪽 Floating
🪽 Hope
🪽 Faith
🪽 Timing
Content: references to and memories of past trauma (SA- not graphic or detailed; enough for context), pregnancy and birth, sickness/plague, learning to trust again, romance- kisses only.
Thank you to Carrie Cotten for the #gifted copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 28, 2025
Gospel-centered, heavy with pain and brokenness but also comfort: beauty from the ashes, indeed
Please be aware of triggers: sexual abuse (alluded), abduction, post trauma, violence,
In the aftermath of an adventure away from her overprotective mother turn nightmare, Isa questions her purpose and God’s goodness to have allowed her immense sufferings of abuse.
But through it all, God is present, offering comfort and love to the broken Isa, mending torn faith and abandoned hope and giving peace where it seems impossible.
And as God restores Isa’s soul and body, He uses Reidar, an unbeliever, to remind her of His goodness and her strength. Strength in Him.
God becomes real and personal and close here, through the strengthened faith for Isa and a newly found faith for Reidar. Your heart is heavy and hurting for the evil and the pain and the brokenness but it’s also comforted and healed. Mrs. Cotten masterfully weaves God’s redeeming word of hope into each page pointing the reader to the One who never abandons and always loves.
Be prepared for tears and emotions and one more page. By no means, it’s an easy read but the beautiful, comfortable prose engages you from the start. It is not a stand alone novel but book 4 in the series. By reading from the start, you’ll find a true blessing because when you reach this story, your heart will truly be full with gratitude to the God who loves us immensely.
I had a privilege to read an advanced copy and absolutely loved it! All opinions expressed are my own
Please be aware of triggers: sexual abuse (alluded), abduction, post trauma, violence,
In the aftermath of an adventure away from her overprotective mother turn nightmare, Isa questions her purpose and God’s goodness to have allowed her immense sufferings of abuse.
But through it all, God is present, offering comfort and love to the broken Isa, mending torn faith and abandoned hope and giving peace where it seems impossible.
And as God restores Isa’s soul and body, He uses Reidar, an unbeliever, to remind her of His goodness and her strength. Strength in Him.
God becomes real and personal and close here, through the strengthened faith for Isa and a newly found faith for Reidar. Your heart is heavy and hurting for the evil and the pain and the brokenness but it’s also comforted and healed. Mrs. Cotten masterfully weaves God’s redeeming word of hope into each page pointing the reader to the One who never abandons and always loves.
Be prepared for tears and emotions and one more page. By no means, it’s an easy read but the beautiful, comfortable prose engages you from the start. It is not a stand alone novel but book 4 in the series. By reading from the start, you’ll find a true blessing because when you reach this story, your heart will truly be full with gratitude to the God who loves us immensely.
I had a privilege to read an advanced copy and absolutely loved it! All opinions expressed are my own
May 14, 2025
How Carrie can have her characters go through unspeakable horrors, yet gently inform. Soul crushing experiences only made palatable with the awe inspiring HOPE, LIGHT, and FAITH.
The story has the potential to wreck you, but you will be mended tenfold. Inspired and given a renewed hope. Carrie’s writing is breathtakingly beautiful and the way she weaves her stories is captivating.
Isa. The Valkyrie. “…a true warrior.” She is incredibly strong, while still needing the strength to move forward. She is the best example of not succumbing to your circumstances and choosing to see the good.
Reidar. A thief. Framed. And on the run he happens to save Isa and in turn is hired as her bodyguard. His tenderness and care for Isa was swoon worthy. Such a strong, yet hurting man, determined to help her.
Loved:
🌸Every Water Scene
🌸Small Stones
🌸Prayers
🌸”Little Life”
🌸Flower Crown
🌸The Tunic
🌸”you are safe with me”
🌸Family
This is one of those reads that will stay with you and change you in the best possible way. Thank you Carrie for another amazing read.
The story has the potential to wreck you, but you will be mended tenfold. Inspired and given a renewed hope. Carrie’s writing is breathtakingly beautiful and the way she weaves her stories is captivating.
Isa. The Valkyrie. “…a true warrior.” She is incredibly strong, while still needing the strength to move forward. She is the best example of not succumbing to your circumstances and choosing to see the good.
Reidar. A thief. Framed. And on the run he happens to save Isa and in turn is hired as her bodyguard. His tenderness and care for Isa was swoon worthy. Such a strong, yet hurting man, determined to help her.
Loved:
🌸Every Water Scene
🌸Small Stones
🌸Prayers
🌸”Little Life”
🌸Flower Crown
🌸The Tunic
🌸”you are safe with me”
🌸Family
This is one of those reads that will stay with you and change you in the best possible way. Thank you Carrie for another amazing read.
April 14, 2025
As always Carrie does a phenomenal job with a story. You will experience every emotion reading this book (along with the others in the series) but it’s woven together so beautifully you can’t help but want to read more. My favorite thing about Carrie is how she intertwines the Gospel into these stories. I haven’t ever read any stories like hers and I’m hooked! I cannot wait for more. If you want to read a book that will literally keep you on the edge of your seat you need to get this series.
August 31, 2025
4.5
This was probably the slowest paced of the series but I honestly was not bored once. I love these characters and it was such an important story to be told. Isa is such a strong female lead in a way that most authors don't show nowadays. Her strength in her trials of life came from within. Reidar also came through such hardships and yet is so gentle towards Isa knowing her so well. This was one of my favourite stories in the series the Raven being my other one.
This was probably the slowest paced of the series but I honestly was not bored once. I love these characters and it was such an important story to be told. Isa is such a strong female lead in a way that most authors don't show nowadays. Her strength in her trials of life came from within. Reidar also came through such hardships and yet is so gentle towards Isa knowing her so well. This was one of my favourite stories in the series the Raven being my other one.
October 16, 2025
such a good story!
I’ve read all four of her books from this series and oh my, they are amazing… her recurring themes of forgiveness, faith, and grace are so beautiful, and the way she manages to take the Christianity side of things and make them so real and powerful and different in each one is beautiful to see.
Such a good book for clean but binge worthy reading, 10/10 recommend!
I’ve read all four of her books from this series and oh my, they are amazing… her recurring themes of forgiveness, faith, and grace are so beautiful, and the way she manages to take the Christianity side of things and make them so real and powerful and different in each one is beautiful to see.
Such a good book for clean but binge worthy reading, 10/10 recommend!
August 11, 2025
This series was just the most beautiful stories!! No false theology and it was just so wonderfully written. I wish I was more eloquent in my writing to describe it at length. It’s a must read and I will be buying the hard copies to put on my bookshelf.
October 11, 2025
This book is phenomenal, thank you so much for choosing a story of life! You blended truth and hardship with the grace and forgiveness of God beautifully. I was so touched by this story-as with each one of these books. I cannot wait for book 5!
May 17, 2025
Beautiful story. Life from death.
May 20, 2025
Best book of the series!
I was almost in tears by the end of this one. The subject matter was heavy, but the gospel was beautifully presented, and the character growth was a treat to experience.
I was almost in tears by the end of this one. The subject matter was heavy, but the gospel was beautifully presented, and the character growth was a treat to experience.
July 12, 2025
I adore this series and am so sad this is the last one for now! Can’t wait to see what Carrie writes next!
July 15, 2025
I love this series and this is my favorite book of the series
August 17, 2025
I did not finish this book. This book finished me.
I cannot find more words than that. Thanks, Miss Carrie.
I cannot find more words than that. Thanks, Miss Carrie.
January 4, 2026
I’m not sure if I’m allowed to have a crush on a MMC in a Christian romance, but it has happened. Whoopsies.
September 21, 2025
Omgosh. I don’t even know how to begin. This was such a great story. Isa and Reider were so broken but the perfect pieces to make a whole. They complemented each other so well and helped build each other back up again. Reider was so protective of Isa and was so focused on keeping her protected. I think this is my favorite of the series!!! But honestly this series gets better with each new book!!! There’s so much to say about how amazing this book is. Just take my word for it and start this series if you haven’t already!!!
Thank you to the author for my review copy. These words are my own.
Thank you to the author for my review copy. These words are my own.
May 13, 2025
If I could give this book 20 stars I would! It deserves all the stars! This series is a balm to my soul. Somehow Carrie can craft a story that captures me, tears my heart to pieces, then puts it back together again so beautifully, and I love it!
This book was just everything. The characters were raw and real. Isa amazed me at her strength and faith through all she endured. She was fierce and a fighter. She made me want to be better.
Reidar was trying to outrun his past. A thief who stumbled upon a beauty, saved her life then became her bodyguard. He was strong and a warrior, but soft and tender when it came to Isa.
I love all the tender scenes in this story between Reidar and Isa. Reidar is the gentlest of souls and his sweet protectiveness of Isa melted my heart. I loved the banter between them and how she helped to show him Christ.
I’ve never seen anyone weave salvation and redemption in their stories like Carrie does. It’s flawless and so beautifully written. I pray her books would be a witness to those who don’t know Christ as their Savior.
This is a book that will wreck you and then make your heart whole again. And have tissues and chocolate handy!
This is book 4 of The Huntress series and I highly recommend you read them in order to fully enjoy them as they’re meant to be!
What I Loved:
🗡️The stone
⚔️Healing
🗡️Protective bodyguard
⚔️“My Valkyrie”
🗡️The river scenes
⚔️Isa’s prayers
🗡️Reidar’s tricks
⚔️“Little Life”
🗡️All the walks
⚔️Flower crowns
🗡️Sanctity of Life
⚔️The bouquet of weeds
🗡️Plot twists
⚔️The tunic
🗡️“I know a lot of things.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was just everything. The characters were raw and real. Isa amazed me at her strength and faith through all she endured. She was fierce and a fighter. She made me want to be better.
Reidar was trying to outrun his past. A thief who stumbled upon a beauty, saved her life then became her bodyguard. He was strong and a warrior, but soft and tender when it came to Isa.
I love all the tender scenes in this story between Reidar and Isa. Reidar is the gentlest of souls and his sweet protectiveness of Isa melted my heart. I loved the banter between them and how she helped to show him Christ.
I’ve never seen anyone weave salvation and redemption in their stories like Carrie does. It’s flawless and so beautifully written. I pray her books would be a witness to those who don’t know Christ as their Savior.
This is a book that will wreck you and then make your heart whole again. And have tissues and chocolate handy!
This is book 4 of The Huntress series and I highly recommend you read them in order to fully enjoy them as they’re meant to be!
What I Loved:
🗡️The stone
⚔️Healing
🗡️Protective bodyguard
⚔️“My Valkyrie”
🗡️The river scenes
⚔️Isa’s prayers
🗡️Reidar’s tricks
⚔️“Little Life”
🗡️All the walks
⚔️Flower crowns
🗡️Sanctity of Life
⚔️The bouquet of weeds
🗡️Plot twists
⚔️The tunic
🗡️“I know a lot of things.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 4, 2025
Amazing book. loved it so much.
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