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Byrdfyre Covenant
What do you get when you merge literary historical fiction and dark fantasy horror with a hint of slow-burn romance? Welcome to the Byrdfyre Saga.
Jörð forgive and protect my little Byrd, should she cling to the earth…
My mother died on the same day my father went mad.
He tried to kill me. With his bare hands, he gripped my throat, stole my breath, meant to tear me from the world.
I survived, but I changed.
That was the beginning of the plague that devoured us.
I will be its ending.
I am Astrid, my mother's first child, promised to an odious priest and surrounded by brothers who love me to varying degrees, and I know how to save us, but no one will listen ...
No one but him.
He is mysterious foreigner, Will Green. Kind, intelligent, but strangely changeable, he stands by my side when others won't, whispers in my ear as we bury our dead, who are mounting up by the day, by the very minute. He tempts me with ideas about what we owe one another. I trust him, because Will Green is good and I believe in good, and in sacrifice, even in myself. And we do need to act ... but sometimes his eyes burn with a strange flame, and I'm not sure he isn't more than he seems.
Fire destroys, but it also tempers. It makes things strong. If I can harness it, and if I am careful, it may be our salvation.
Byrdfyre Covenant is about desperation and loss, unbreakable bonds and old Gods, and a young woman locked into a deal with a dark stranger that stole her humanity and chained her to him for eternity. This is a series starter that will stay with you. Expect heart-pounding action, dark horror and real-history elements, twists and turns you won't expect, and a chilling and heart-rending cliffhanger ending ... because there's always more to the story.
Jayne Starwing is a new pen name for seasoned author Olivia M. Jacques (Women's Fiction, The Madisons), who is also the co-author of The Lightbringers series (Fantasy Romance). Byrdfyre Covenant merges Literary Historical Fiction and Dark Fantasy and will appeal to fans of V.E. Schwab (The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil), Audrey Niffenegger (The Time Traveler’s Wife) and Sarah J. Maas (Throne of Glass).
Trigger Warnings: As this novel is set around the time of the Black Death's arrival in Norway in 1349, there is a significant amount of death and gore, including child death. The text also contains violence against women and misogyny, religious trauma, self-flagellation, murder and violence, and survivalist themes, including potential starvation, hints at future cannibalism, and more. Please read responsibly.
Jörð forgive and protect my little Byrd, should she cling to the earth…
My mother died on the same day my father went mad.
He tried to kill me. With his bare hands, he gripped my throat, stole my breath, meant to tear me from the world.
I survived, but I changed.
That was the beginning of the plague that devoured us.
I will be its ending.
I am Astrid, my mother's first child, promised to an odious priest and surrounded by brothers who love me to varying degrees, and I know how to save us, but no one will listen ...
No one but him.
He is mysterious foreigner, Will Green. Kind, intelligent, but strangely changeable, he stands by my side when others won't, whispers in my ear as we bury our dead, who are mounting up by the day, by the very minute. He tempts me with ideas about what we owe one another. I trust him, because Will Green is good and I believe in good, and in sacrifice, even in myself. And we do need to act ... but sometimes his eyes burn with a strange flame, and I'm not sure he isn't more than he seems.
Fire destroys, but it also tempers. It makes things strong. If I can harness it, and if I am careful, it may be our salvation.
Byrdfyre Covenant is about desperation and loss, unbreakable bonds and old Gods, and a young woman locked into a deal with a dark stranger that stole her humanity and chained her to him for eternity. This is a series starter that will stay with you. Expect heart-pounding action, dark horror and real-history elements, twists and turns you won't expect, and a chilling and heart-rending cliffhanger ending ... because there's always more to the story.
Jayne Starwing is a new pen name for seasoned author Olivia M. Jacques (Women's Fiction, The Madisons), who is also the co-author of The Lightbringers series (Fantasy Romance). Byrdfyre Covenant merges Literary Historical Fiction and Dark Fantasy and will appeal to fans of V.E. Schwab (The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil), Audrey Niffenegger (The Time Traveler’s Wife) and Sarah J. Maas (Throne of Glass).
Trigger Warnings: As this novel is set around the time of the Black Death's arrival in Norway in 1349, there is a significant amount of death and gore, including child death. The text also contains violence against women and misogyny, religious trauma, self-flagellation, murder and violence, and survivalist themes, including potential starvation, hints at future cannibalism, and more. Please read responsibly.
- GenresFantasy
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 17, 2025
91 people want to read
About the author
Jayne Starwing
5 books42 followersJayne Starwing is a reformed journalist and English Literature grad school survivor who barely got out with her obsession with Tolkien intact. Following stints in a few North American cities, she now writes from the Atlantic Canada province of New Brunswick where she lives with her academic partner and half-fae child. In addition to her speculative and fantasy work, she authors contemporary humorous Women’s Fiction as Olivia M. Jacques. Jayne is mixed-race and neurodivergent and often explores these and other social subjects that have affected her life through her characters, particularly when writing as Olivia. She enjoys collecting and is forever bringing home feathers, fossils, and fungi, to her partner’s dismay and her daughter’s delight. As Jayne, she is still seeking the second star to the right, and is determined to never grow up, though it is said that never is an awfully long time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 21, 2025
Full of rich detail and unimaginable horror, Byrdyre mingles religious trauma, Norse folklore and ethereal romance in a unique and haunting historical fantasy plague tale. Dark and disturbing, this book will have you throwing your Kindle, covering your eyes, and yet secretly wanting more.
July 14, 2025
Net Galley ARC review
This book is incredibly deep. It’s descriptive and well thought out. It leans more toward the historical genre than to the Romantasy genre and that is perhaps why it isn’t the book for me. I’m not a historical girly but I am a Romantasy girl. If you enjoy historical romance with religious content woven in with the story line you will definitely love this book.
She did a phenomenal job with the historical aspects of the book such as the moral compass of the characters, how women were considered in this time period, the language used in this era. If these things are your jam, this is the book for you!
This book is incredibly deep. It’s descriptive and well thought out. It leans more toward the historical genre than to the Romantasy genre and that is perhaps why it isn’t the book for me. I’m not a historical girly but I am a Romantasy girl. If you enjoy historical romance with religious content woven in with the story line you will definitely love this book.
She did a phenomenal job with the historical aspects of the book such as the moral compass of the characters, how women were considered in this time period, the language used in this era. If these things are your jam, this is the book for you!
June 26, 2025
I received a copy of an eARC. My review is my honest thoughts, feelings and yapping.
ཐིཋྀ Historical Fiction
ཐིཋྀ Eldest Daughter Core
ཐིཋྀ Faustian Bargains
ཐིཋྀ Sprinkle of Romance
“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘥𝘰. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘥𝘦.”
I came for the Romantasy and stayed for Astrid’s journey. The moment I started reading, I was transported. It felt like I was there with her as she experienced the Black Plague ravage her town, how she tried so hard to help others & save them from it.
I felt her frustration, anger, disappointment, and grief. I wouldn’t consider this a Romantasy as there were few and far between. I’m not sure if this is a standalone or a series, but if it’s the latter, it is really a slow burn. The book centers heavily on Astrid’s survival & how she is trying to give other people the same chance, while they doubt and fear her, as she does towards herself too, and is a reluctant leader. So this feels more like a Women’s Fiction, rather than Romantasy. The scene where she said:
“𝘈 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘥, 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘨𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘦, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 & 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘦. 𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺. 𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦”
This was so real! Hahaha! It’s giving the tired eldest sister core. And Sigrid and Astrid’s conversation and monologue? Wow, I clapped 👏👏👏👏👏 I’m sure many can relate, quite timely if you ask me or it has always been.
“𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯”
“𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘴. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘺, 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘯. 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘴. 𝘞𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴, 𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘴, 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘴 𝘶𝘱𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘳. 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳”. 𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥. 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘥𝘰, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥. 𝘎𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺. 𝘎𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦. 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘤𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘶𝘱 𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦. 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥. 𝘏𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥”
If you like the movie The VVitch (2015) you will like this!
Also, my brain pictures Astrid with Anya Taylor-Joy’s face maybe because both she and Thomasin (Anya’s character in The VVitch) go through isolation, trying to what she thinks is right and knows she deserves better, and is judged and shamed for it. Plus I also saw Anya in the Northman.
ཐིཋྀ Historical Fiction
ཐིཋྀ Eldest Daughter Core
ཐིཋྀ Faustian Bargains
ཐིཋྀ Sprinkle of Romance
“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘥𝘰. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘥𝘦.”
I came for the Romantasy and stayed for Astrid’s journey. The moment I started reading, I was transported. It felt like I was there with her as she experienced the Black Plague ravage her town, how she tried so hard to help others & save them from it.
I felt her frustration, anger, disappointment, and grief. I wouldn’t consider this a Romantasy as there were few and far between. I’m not sure if this is a standalone or a series, but if it’s the latter, it is really a slow burn. The book centers heavily on Astrid’s survival & how she is trying to give other people the same chance, while they doubt and fear her, as she does towards herself too, and is a reluctant leader. So this feels more like a Women’s Fiction, rather than Romantasy. The scene where she said:
“𝘈 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘥, 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘨𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘦, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 & 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘦. 𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺. 𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦”
This was so real! Hahaha! It’s giving the tired eldest sister core. And Sigrid and Astrid’s conversation and monologue? Wow, I clapped 👏👏👏👏👏 I’m sure many can relate, quite timely if you ask me or it has always been.
“𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯”
“𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘴. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘺, 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘯. 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘴. 𝘞𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴, 𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘴, 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘴 𝘶𝘱𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘳. 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳”. 𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥. 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘥𝘰, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥. 𝘎𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺. 𝘎𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦. 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘤𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘶𝘱 𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦. 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥. 𝘏𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥”
If you like the movie The VVitch (2015) you will like this!
Also, my brain pictures Astrid with Anya Taylor-Joy’s face maybe because both she and Thomasin (Anya’s character in The VVitch) go through isolation, trying to what she thinks is right and knows she deserves better, and is judged and shamed for it. Plus I also saw Anya in the Northman.
August 12, 2025
I picked up this book expecting a Romantasy and what I found was a truly exceptionally written historical fiction with a hint of romance. The depth of the FMC's, Astrid, personal journey is so well written that it transports you to the middle of the black plague. I was a me to really feel the weight of the Black Plague as it swept through her town, and witness her relentless determination to help those around her, even as hope seemed to slip away.
The author does an excellent job at showing us Astrid’s emotions, her frustration and self doubt are two emotions that sit heavily with me. While there are hints of romance, it is not the main part of the story’s focus. The focus is more so on survival and resilience. If you’re looking for a fast-paced romantic plot, this may not be the book for you. Instead, the narrative is a slow burn, centering on Astrid’s struggle to lead and protect her community, even as she grapples with her own fears and the skepticism of others.
Ultimately, this book seems to fall more on the historical fiction side of things rather than a Romantasy. It is an extreme slow burn, but still worth it!
It’s a powerful exploration of courage and leadership in the face of overwhelming adversity. After reading Astrid’s journey it will likely live rent free in my brain for a long time.
In summary, it’s a compelling read for anyone drawn to stories of historical fiction, inner strength and perseverance.
The author does an excellent job at showing us Astrid’s emotions, her frustration and self doubt are two emotions that sit heavily with me. While there are hints of romance, it is not the main part of the story’s focus. The focus is more so on survival and resilience. If you’re looking for a fast-paced romantic plot, this may not be the book for you. Instead, the narrative is a slow burn, centering on Astrid’s struggle to lead and protect her community, even as she grapples with her own fears and the skepticism of others.
Ultimately, this book seems to fall more on the historical fiction side of things rather than a Romantasy. It is an extreme slow burn, but still worth it!
It’s a powerful exploration of courage and leadership in the face of overwhelming adversity. After reading Astrid’s journey it will likely live rent free in my brain for a long time.
In summary, it’s a compelling read for anyone drawn to stories of historical fiction, inner strength and perseverance.
July 22, 2025
3,5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read Byrdfyre Covenant in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I went into this expecting a romantasy with Norse gods, magic, and Viking vibes—but instead found a dark and emotional story that leans more into historical fiction with a thread of magical realism. The god element is there, but more often as an observer than an active force, and the romance is very slow-burn and subtle.
What stood out to me was the writing style—lyrical and heavy with emotion—and the strong women who carry the burden of survival when everyone underestimates them. Astrid, the main character, feels deeply real, navigating a bleak world ruled by fear, plague, and power-hungry men. The story is grim and full of loss, yet it holds a message about perseverance and quiet strength.
It wasn’t quite the book for me personally, but I appreciate the themes it explores and the atmosphere it builds. If you’re drawn to dark, literary historical fiction with a haunting edge, this may be for you.
#ByrdfyreCovenant #NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read Byrdfyre Covenant in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I went into this expecting a romantasy with Norse gods, magic, and Viking vibes—but instead found a dark and emotional story that leans more into historical fiction with a thread of magical realism. The god element is there, but more often as an observer than an active force, and the romance is very slow-burn and subtle.
What stood out to me was the writing style—lyrical and heavy with emotion—and the strong women who carry the burden of survival when everyone underestimates them. Astrid, the main character, feels deeply real, navigating a bleak world ruled by fear, plague, and power-hungry men. The story is grim and full of loss, yet it holds a message about perseverance and quiet strength.
It wasn’t quite the book for me personally, but I appreciate the themes it explores and the atmosphere it builds. If you’re drawn to dark, literary historical fiction with a haunting edge, this may be for you.
#ByrdfyreCovenant #NetGalley
August 8, 2025
I received an eARC of this book through NetGalley and I absolutely devoured it. The writing style, characters, and plot drew me in and even after finishing the book, I’m still thinking about it. It takes place during a period of history that fascinates me- the Black Plague. The slow-burn horror of the plague is woven in with Norse culture and Faustian bargains. Our protagonist, Astrid, tries to do what she can to save her community, even as they continuously write her off (or accuse her of witchcraft) because she’s a woman. There’s an amazing piece of dialogue between her and her SIL about women carry so much of the load, yet men consider themselves the leaders.
If you’re looking for romance, there’s a small amount of it but it isn’t the main focus. In fact, my main criticism with the romance was that it became a bit convoluted, but I can’t explain more without spoilers. Nonetheless, everything came together to create a haunting, emotional story about choices and consequences that lingered in my mind after finishing it. Overall, this was a solid first entry in a new series and I can’t wait to see where it will go next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Jayne Starwing for the ARC!
If you’re looking for romance, there’s a small amount of it but it isn’t the main focus. In fact, my main criticism with the romance was that it became a bit convoluted, but I can’t explain more without spoilers. Nonetheless, everything came together to create a haunting, emotional story about choices and consequences that lingered in my mind after finishing it. Overall, this was a solid first entry in a new series and I can’t wait to see where it will go next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Jayne Starwing for the ARC!
July 22, 2025
Joe Black meets historical fantasy in an achingly haunting tale of the black plague!
I think that the perspective I started out with about this story and the one I ended up with were light years apart. This is absolutely NOT a negative thing, but only to say that I went in with expectations of more fantasy elements and came away with a deeply moving historical fiction piece that permeated my soul. The characters were full of depth, pain, and suffering during the dark times of the black plague. The idea of old world gods coming into play during this time in history was a unique take on this era, and I really enjoyed that element of the plot! Starwing has a way of taking humanity and cracking it open to reveal all the ugly parts, and yet you still want to stay as a reader with Astrid and press forward through the pain right along with her. The vibes were definitely reminiscent of the movie Joe Black, where an otherworldly being takes human form and influences human choice and consequence. The ache my heart felt and still feels after reading about such a dire part of history is so vivid. These characters will stay with me for a long time. Thank you to Agency Press and Jayne Starwing for this amazing read!
I think that the perspective I started out with about this story and the one I ended up with were light years apart. This is absolutely NOT a negative thing, but only to say that I went in with expectations of more fantasy elements and came away with a deeply moving historical fiction piece that permeated my soul. The characters were full of depth, pain, and suffering during the dark times of the black plague. The idea of old world gods coming into play during this time in history was a unique take on this era, and I really enjoyed that element of the plot! Starwing has a way of taking humanity and cracking it open to reveal all the ugly parts, and yet you still want to stay as a reader with Astrid and press forward through the pain right along with her. The vibes were definitely reminiscent of the movie Joe Black, where an otherworldly being takes human form and influences human choice and consequence. The ache my heart felt and still feels after reading about such a dire part of history is so vivid. These characters will stay with me for a long time. Thank you to Agency Press and Jayne Starwing for this amazing read!
July 6, 2025
✨🤍I felt like I was next to Astrid in her journey of perseverance!
✨🌙ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
A sprinkle of 🌶️
“You’re dangerous because you do not accept what little you’re offered. Not like they do. You fight. You speak. You expect more and better. You move against the tide”
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review:
The book is about Astrid’s surviving the Black Plague and how she is giving the people the benefit of the doubt even if they doubt and fear her as a leader. All she wanted to do was save the people from the plague that took out her town. Will Green is the sprinkle of spice😍The foreigner who listens to her, walks her through it, and guiding her. So mysterious, that Will Green….can she trust him? Hmmmmm, what a “bargain”!
I loved it and I hope to read more especially with how it ended? Next book please!
✨🌙ARC READER FOR @jaynestarwing
✨🌙ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
A sprinkle of 🌶️
“You’re dangerous because you do not accept what little you’re offered. Not like they do. You fight. You speak. You expect more and better. You move against the tide”
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review:
The book is about Astrid’s surviving the Black Plague and how she is giving the people the benefit of the doubt even if they doubt and fear her as a leader. All she wanted to do was save the people from the plague that took out her town. Will Green is the sprinkle of spice😍The foreigner who listens to her, walks her through it, and guiding her. So mysterious, that Will Green….can she trust him? Hmmmmm, what a “bargain”!
I loved it and I hope to read more especially with how it ended? Next book please!
✨🌙ARC READER FOR @jaynestarwing
August 2, 2025
Oh wow! I had chills the entire time reading this. I am thoroughly obsessed with this dark speculative fantasy. It is so unique and beautifully written. It was easy to get lost into it. It's emotional and raw as you go through what people may have experienced with the plague. I loved how it captured the emotional toll and created this new fantasy-like story about faustian bargains, a meddling God, and a woman's desperation to survive. It also has the perfect horror undertones and vibe. Seriously a must read.
I'm in love with Jayne's beautiful writing style and her storytelling abilities are mind blowing. I am blown away.
I'm in love with Jayne's beautiful writing style and her storytelling abilities are mind blowing. I am blown away.
July 21, 2025
This was a really amazing book, as soon as you start the book, immediately it grabs your attention. I think that the book is incredibly deep and descriptive. The writing is very good. And I think the author did wonderful job on perceiving how the woman were treated in that period. I loved the main female lead Astrid, she was so strong and brave. You immediately start loving her and rooting for her, and I felt so bad for her. I just wish the ending was a bit longer and tell us more.
Before reading the book, I would advise you to check the trigger warnings.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Jayne Starwing for the gifted ARC. All opinions are my own.
Before reading the book, I would advise you to check the trigger warnings.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Jayne Starwing for the gifted ARC. All opinions are my own.
July 23, 2025
This book was dense and packed with information, offering a rich and layered reading experience. It took me on a rollercoaster of historical facts and storytelling—sometimes overwhelming, but always compelling. I'm left wondering if there's a sequel, because I'm definitely intrigued to read more.
July 3, 2025
I was very excited to receive an ARC of this book and for the most part I really enjoyed it! A historical fiction with a sprinkle of fantasy and romance. I really like the FMC but felt bad for her because I feel like she could never catch a break. Not a huge fan of the ending because I’m still left with a lot of questions and it’s not very clear if there will be another book.
July 11, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this story although I was hoping for a different ending, maybe there's another book to keep the story going..
This is a historical fiction with dark fantasy vibes, a little bit of romance and a lot of death..
This are the tropes:
🌾Old God x Human Girl
🌾Fate and Destiny
🌾Faustian Bargains
🌾Hallucination
🌾Trauma
🌾Love in the Ruins
🌾Norse Mythology
This is a historical fiction with dark fantasy vibes, a little bit of romance and a lot of death..
This are the tropes:
🌾Old God x Human Girl
🌾Fate and Destiny
🌾Faustian Bargains
🌾Hallucination
🌾Trauma
🌾Love in the Ruins
🌾Norse Mythology
July 17, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, and I honestly didn’t know what to expect going in. The deep and descriptive storyline kept me hooked all the way through. What surprised me most was the emotional ride I took with the FMC. I loved her strength and persistence, but there were definitely moments I wanted to shake her for not seeing what was right in front of her! That push and pull made her feel real, and it’s exactly what kept me hooked. The mix of historical fiction with just a sprinkle of romance was a perfect combo. And a cliffhanger ending? I’m definitely hoping there’s more to come!
August 28, 2025
I enjoyed this dark fantasy romance. It pulled me in with its haunting vibe and kept me invested. . The emotional depth of Astrid’s journey hit hard and the slow-burn romance was on point. The 1349 Norway setting felt so vivid, like I was right there. Even when the world-building got a bit dense, I couldn’t stop reading. That cliffhanger? Interested to see what will happen in book 2.
August 19, 2025
The Dyslexic Who Reads
Stars: ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: none
Triggers: Mass death, ritualistic sacrifice, starvation, psychosis
OMG, and I do not say lightly, this book was AMAZING! The description does NOT give the book justices of what it is about and how truly unique it was. So though i never redescribe a book, as I feel like that is redundant in a lot of ways, I'm going to do so now for this one.
This fictional book is about how the Black Death came to Norway in the 14th century, via a ghost ship. The last remaining survivor - after murdering the other - on the ship, sacrifices himself so the ship won't bring the plague to a new place. But those in the town, see the ship on fire and come to help, taking the ship back to shore, and with it the plague.
An Old God becomes involved in this story, he is neither good or evil. He makes deals if one is willing to pay the price. As the town becomes sick, one woman makes a deal with him to protect her daughter, and that this Old God does.
We follow this daughter and her desperate fight to save her family and her town. And it is an amazing story you should read!
What I loved about this book:
🥰 The history of it was so beautifully written and well researched. The story draws you in and I became captivated in the world that was written. You actually feel like you are living through the horrors of the story.
🥰 The characters are so well written and thought out that they could be real. This whole story could be read as actually history, it is so believable and possible. You see the religious fever that was prevalent back than, the blind following of the clergy and the devotion to misogyny in general.
😊 I don't even really know what else to say, the whole book was great, so it's hard to pinpoint what to point out.
What I didn't like about this book:
🥺 It ended
🥺 It isn't a series
🦟 Flea Facts Inspired by the fleas that carried the plague:
Fleas can jump at least a foot in the air, which is around 150 times their height
Over all: READ THIS BOOK NOW
I got this book free from NetGalley for my honest review.
Stars: ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: none
Triggers: Mass death, ritualistic sacrifice, starvation, psychosis
OMG, and I do not say lightly, this book was AMAZING! The description does NOT give the book justices of what it is about and how truly unique it was. So though i never redescribe a book, as I feel like that is redundant in a lot of ways, I'm going to do so now for this one.
This fictional book is about how the Black Death came to Norway in the 14th century, via a ghost ship. The last remaining survivor - after murdering the other - on the ship, sacrifices himself so the ship won't bring the plague to a new place. But those in the town, see the ship on fire and come to help, taking the ship back to shore, and with it the plague.
An Old God becomes involved in this story, he is neither good or evil. He makes deals if one is willing to pay the price. As the town becomes sick, one woman makes a deal with him to protect her daughter, and that this Old God does.
We follow this daughter and her desperate fight to save her family and her town. And it is an amazing story you should read!
What I loved about this book:
🥰 The history of it was so beautifully written and well researched. The story draws you in and I became captivated in the world that was written. You actually feel like you are living through the horrors of the story.
🥰 The characters are so well written and thought out that they could be real. This whole story could be read as actually history, it is so believable and possible. You see the religious fever that was prevalent back than, the blind following of the clergy and the devotion to misogyny in general.
😊 I don't even really know what else to say, the whole book was great, so it's hard to pinpoint what to point out.
What I didn't like about this book:
🥺 It ended
🥺 It isn't a series
🦟 Flea Facts Inspired by the fleas that carried the plague:
Fleas can jump at least a foot in the air, which is around 150 times their height
Over all: READ THIS BOOK NOW
I got this book free from NetGalley for my honest review.
July 18, 2025
“I am what comes after. I am a moth.”
Byrdfyre Covenant is an interesting historical speculative fiction with a little dark fantasy and a tiny sprinkle of romance.
Old Gods, a ghost ship, saining, and bargains.
This is a really intriguing perspective on what may have happened when the plague spread to Norway via a ghost ship. We experience the Black Plague with Astrid as she does what she can to survive the Black Plague, save her family and help as many village people as she can. There is a lot of death and suffering. Mob mentality is so fascinating to me. The things people will do when their fear takes over seem unbelievable. I also found it interesting to see the adaptations people made in a time when Christianity had just swept away the Old Gods.
Young Will Green is such an admirable character and Astrid is pretty relatable. Although sometimes I wanted to snap my fingers in her face and say open your eyes 😂.
I liked the flash forward letters written by archaeologists and researchers in a more modern time as they discover relics and speculate on their meaning.
Also, I have to say that I love the cover so much 💛
Fav tropes:
Old Gods 👑
Norse mythology 🔱
Plague 😷
Betrayal 💔
Bargains 🤝
Fav quotes:
“Still smells like sorcery,”
“I am what answers when the desperate cry out, Little Byrd. I am the door that opens when all others are barred.“
Thank you so much to the author, NetGalley and Agency Press for the advanced copy.
Byrdfyre Covenant is an interesting historical speculative fiction with a little dark fantasy and a tiny sprinkle of romance.
Old Gods, a ghost ship, saining, and bargains.
This is a really intriguing perspective on what may have happened when the plague spread to Norway via a ghost ship. We experience the Black Plague with Astrid as she does what she can to survive the Black Plague, save her family and help as many village people as she can. There is a lot of death and suffering. Mob mentality is so fascinating to me. The things people will do when their fear takes over seem unbelievable. I also found it interesting to see the adaptations people made in a time when Christianity had just swept away the Old Gods.
Young Will Green is such an admirable character and Astrid is pretty relatable. Although sometimes I wanted to snap my fingers in her face and say open your eyes 😂.
I liked the flash forward letters written by archaeologists and researchers in a more modern time as they discover relics and speculate on their meaning.
Also, I have to say that I love the cover so much 💛
Fav tropes:
Old Gods 👑
Norse mythology 🔱
Plague 😷
Betrayal 💔
Bargains 🤝
Fav quotes:
“Still smells like sorcery,”
“I am what answers when the desperate cry out, Little Byrd. I am the door that opens when all others are barred.“
Thank you so much to the author, NetGalley and Agency Press for the advanced copy.
July 5, 2025
4.5 for me but i cant put half a star on here.
I was lucky enough to read an arc of this book and it was amazing. I was lucky to experience a few chapters of this book in bewitched blooms and I knew id love it then. And, when I got to experience the whole book it did not disappoint and kept up the hype from when I got to ready a few chapters them. I found this book so intriguing and gripping the whole way through it had my questioning events and thinking of possibly out comes and wishing for certain outcomes throughout reading it.
This book is a Speculative fantasy and was so different to other books with fantasy elements in them. It is written looking back into the past at a young nordic female who is the fmc and the challenges, betrayal and losses she has to face and go through while folks in her village and family die of the plague. And, she fights to try and get them to act and do stuff to try and survive from the plague.
As well as meeting a strange man/ being going by the name of Will Green who she starts to get complex feelings for. Can she save her family, her village and find love, and gain the love a respect she wants ?
The book also has small snippets where the book jumps forward in year events like college lectures and letters.
You'll have to read for your self to find out.
I was lucky enough to read an arc of this book and it was amazing. I was lucky to experience a few chapters of this book in bewitched blooms and I knew id love it then. And, when I got to experience the whole book it did not disappoint and kept up the hype from when I got to ready a few chapters them. I found this book so intriguing and gripping the whole way through it had my questioning events and thinking of possibly out comes and wishing for certain outcomes throughout reading it.
This book is a Speculative fantasy and was so different to other books with fantasy elements in them. It is written looking back into the past at a young nordic female who is the fmc and the challenges, betrayal and losses she has to face and go through while folks in her village and family die of the plague. And, she fights to try and get them to act and do stuff to try and survive from the plague.
As well as meeting a strange man/ being going by the name of Will Green who she starts to get complex feelings for. Can she save her family, her village and find love, and gain the love a respect she wants ?
The book also has small snippets where the book jumps forward in year events like college lectures and letters.
You'll have to read for your self to find out.
July 17, 2025
Byrdfyre Covenant is a gorgeous story that weaves historical events, Norse myth, hope, desperation, and intrigue. Though I was a bit wary at first, the story is instantly engaging and leaves behind a feeling of wonder and curiosity. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing as each character developed and changed as they adjusted to their circumstances. I loved seeing how Astrid remained strong even as the odds were against her. She fought and I’m curious to see if there will be a continuation or if this is the end of her story. At the same time, I’m curious as to whose story this really is. With alternating narrators, the story maintains a mysterious energy as there are clearly more factors at play.
There was never a dull moment and there are so many notes and quotes that I took from the novel. To a point, Byrdfyre Covenant almost feels philosophical as it explores notions of religion and society, but that might actually be me reading into it too much. As I write this, I am still in awe and wonder of the book and I have a feeling that it will linger because of how deeply I felt over parts of the story.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Jayne Starwing for the gifted ARC. All opinions are my own.
There was never a dull moment and there are so many notes and quotes that I took from the novel. To a point, Byrdfyre Covenant almost feels philosophical as it explores notions of religion and society, but that might actually be me reading into it too much. As I write this, I am still in awe and wonder of the book and I have a feeling that it will linger because of how deeply I felt over parts of the story.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Jayne Starwing for the gifted ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 12, 2025
SPOILERS!!!
I have literally JUST finished reading this book 10 minutes ago, and omg... it was really good.
This is a dark fantasy horror and claims to be an historical romance, but I raise an eyebrow at the romance part, as there was mainly hand holding and a few kisses here and there. HOWEVER, i actually rate that. The story was about how the black plague ravaged Astrid's village, and I'm glad the plot remained focused on that.
Now. On to Astrid, our FMC. I felt so bad for her! She's trying to save everyone and they treat her so badly, and try to have her die, inside a burning house, and when she gets some people to follow her and tries her best to lead them to safety, what do they do? Decide to try to kill and eat her.
The lack of gratitude, is appalling!
Her whole family, aside from her mother sucks.
I felt so frustrated and angry on Astrid's behalf.
An author that can invoke such emotions in their reader is a sign of good writing.
The ending? whyyyyy? I need to read more.
I recommend reading this.
I have literally JUST finished reading this book 10 minutes ago, and omg... it was really good.
This is a dark fantasy horror and claims to be an historical romance, but I raise an eyebrow at the romance part, as there was mainly hand holding and a few kisses here and there. HOWEVER, i actually rate that. The story was about how the black plague ravaged Astrid's village, and I'm glad the plot remained focused on that.
Now. On to Astrid, our FMC. I felt so bad for her! She's trying to save everyone and they treat her so badly, and try to have her die, inside a burning house, and when she gets some people to follow her and tries her best to lead them to safety, what do they do? Decide to try to kill and eat her.
The lack of gratitude, is appalling!
Her whole family, aside from her mother sucks.
I felt so frustrated and angry on Astrid's behalf.
An author that can invoke such emotions in their reader is a sign of good writing.
The ending? whyyyyy? I need to read more.
I recommend reading this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2025
✨Arc Review✨
5⭐️
The way this is written will captivate you. It’s very detailed, the history extensive, you feel like you’re really there.
It’s a slower paced book but I feel it’s necessary with the nature of what’s taking place.
Astrid, the fmc, is a force to be reckoned with. She has so much strength and even though they don’t deserve it she cares very deeply for all of the people.
She has to do hard things and make hard decisions but she perseveres.
There’s a lesson to be learned from this book.
Be careful what you ask for.
Byrdfyre Covenant releases July 17th and is available for preorder now!
5⭐️
The way this is written will captivate you. It’s very detailed, the history extensive, you feel like you’re really there.
It’s a slower paced book but I feel it’s necessary with the nature of what’s taking place.
Astrid, the fmc, is a force to be reckoned with. She has so much strength and even though they don’t deserve it she cares very deeply for all of the people.
She has to do hard things and make hard decisions but she perseveres.
There’s a lesson to be learned from this book.
Be careful what you ask for.
Byrdfyre Covenant releases July 17th and is available for preorder now!
August 6, 2025
Let me first preface this by saying that I went into this book thinking it would be more Fantasy/Norse folklore, but was met with an astonishing literary piece with elements of historical fiction, macabre themes, religious trauma, and a nod to Norse pagan practices.
This book highlights religious zealotry, perseverance, and hope during a time of great turmoil where the black plague is running rampant and imparts fantasy characteristics resulting in a gripping and captivating storyline and a cliffhanger that leaves you speechless.
Thank you NetGalley and Agency Press for this free eARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book highlights religious zealotry, perseverance, and hope during a time of great turmoil where the black plague is running rampant and imparts fantasy characteristics resulting in a gripping and captivating storyline and a cliffhanger that leaves you speechless.
Thank you NetGalley and Agency Press for this free eARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2025
This is my first time reading a book by Jayne Starwing and I must say that I was very impressed. I have to admit the main character Astrid was the epitome of strong woman becaise not many people would be able to move on with their life after the black plague. I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
July 20, 2025
this deserves 10 stars. wow. just holy wow. I loved this book so much. it is absolutely brilliantly written. mam, I need the next book....soon. thanks. 🫶🫶🫶 I love Jayne Starwing.
November 25, 2025
This is an absolutely gripping historical fiction with supernatural/old gods elements. The writing is so great and the FMC is such an authentic character.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I had the impression from bookstagram that this was at least partially a romance but I would argue it's not at all. The MMC feels more like a friend/companion than a true love interest.
As tragedy after tragedy befalls the FMC, be prepared for your heart strings to be pulled!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I had the impression from bookstagram that this was at least partially a romance but I would argue it's not at all. The MMC feels more like a friend/companion than a true love interest.
As tragedy after tragedy befalls the FMC, be prepared for your heart strings to be pulled!
July 31, 2025
✨Arc Review✨
Thank you to the author Jayne Starwing And Netgallery for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A Darkly Enchanting Tale of Survival and Sacrifice
Byrdfyre Covenant by Jayne Starwing is a mesmerizing blend of dark fantasy and speculative historical fiction that swept me into its haunting world from the very first page. Set in 1349 Norway during the Black Plague, the story follows Astrid, a resilient young woman who becomes entangled in a web of fate, old gods, and forbidden bargains.
The novel's strength lies in its atmospheric world-building. Starwing crafts a vivid, immersive setting where the tension of impending doom is palpable. The eerie arrival of a ghost ship and the subsequent plague set the stage for a narrative filled with mystery and suspense.
Astrid is a compelling protagonist—her inner strength and determination shine through as she navigates the complexities of survival and morality. Her interactions with Will Green, a mysterious and enigmatic figure, add layers of intrigue and tension to the story. Their slow-burn dynamic kept me eagerly turning pages, craving more of their evolving relationship.
The themes of fate, destiny, and sacrifice are explored with depth and nuance. The novel delves into the human condition, examining how individuals respond to crisis and the choices they make under pressure. The inclusion of Norse mythology adds a rich cultural layer, enhancing the story's depth and complexity.
While the book is captivating, there were moments where the pacing slowed, and I found myself yearning for more action or resolution. Some secondary characters felt underdeveloped, leaving me curious about their backstories and potential future arcs.
Overall, Byrdfyre Covenant is a darkly enchanting tale that offers a unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy. It's a story that lingers long after the last page, leaving readers contemplating the choices of its characters and the world they've inhabited. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment in this series.
Thank you to the author Jayne Starwing And Netgallery for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A Darkly Enchanting Tale of Survival and Sacrifice
Byrdfyre Covenant by Jayne Starwing is a mesmerizing blend of dark fantasy and speculative historical fiction that swept me into its haunting world from the very first page. Set in 1349 Norway during the Black Plague, the story follows Astrid, a resilient young woman who becomes entangled in a web of fate, old gods, and forbidden bargains.
The novel's strength lies in its atmospheric world-building. Starwing crafts a vivid, immersive setting where the tension of impending doom is palpable. The eerie arrival of a ghost ship and the subsequent plague set the stage for a narrative filled with mystery and suspense.
Astrid is a compelling protagonist—her inner strength and determination shine through as she navigates the complexities of survival and morality. Her interactions with Will Green, a mysterious and enigmatic figure, add layers of intrigue and tension to the story. Their slow-burn dynamic kept me eagerly turning pages, craving more of their evolving relationship.
The themes of fate, destiny, and sacrifice are explored with depth and nuance. The novel delves into the human condition, examining how individuals respond to crisis and the choices they make under pressure. The inclusion of Norse mythology adds a rich cultural layer, enhancing the story's depth and complexity.
While the book is captivating, there were moments where the pacing slowed, and I found myself yearning for more action or resolution. Some secondary characters felt underdeveloped, leaving me curious about their backstories and potential future arcs.
Overall, Byrdfyre Covenant is a darkly enchanting tale that offers a unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy. It's a story that lingers long after the last page, leaving readers contemplating the choices of its characters and the world they've inhabited. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment in this series.
July 18, 2025
ARC Review – 3⭐️
Summary:
Set during the Black Death in 14th century Finland, Brydfyre Covenant blends historical fiction with a thread of magical realism. The story explores grief, survival, and sacrifice as an old god quietly watches a town unravel under the weight of plague and despair.
Review:
From the title and cover, I was expecting a romantasy—but what I got was more of a slow-paced historical fiction with light magical realism. The presence of the old god felt somewhat like Death in The Book Thief: observing, sometimes intervening, but always lingering in the background.
I really enjoyed the framing device used in the second section—where a professor introduces the historical narrative as part of a lecture. It gave the story a fresh perspective and grounded it in the modern world. I wish that format had continued throughout the book—it added a thoughtful structure that made the rest of the sections feel more fragmented by comparison.
The romance between Astrid and Will didn’t fully land for me. Their relationship felt underdeveloped, especially considering the stakes Astrid takes on for him. We’re told she’s willing to sacrifice everything, but we see very little of their actual connection on the page—it lacked the emotional weight it needed to make that believable.
That said, I appreciated learning about the Black Death from a Finnish perspective, which is rarely explored in historical fiction. The atmosphere is heavy and immersive, and the magical realism adds an eerie, almost mythological tone.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for slow, thoughtful historical fiction with a folkloric thread, this might work for you. Just don’t expect romance to be central, and know that the story asks for patience. Not what I expected—but not without merit.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
Set during the Black Death in 14th century Finland, Brydfyre Covenant blends historical fiction with a thread of magical realism. The story explores grief, survival, and sacrifice as an old god quietly watches a town unravel under the weight of plague and despair.
Review:
From the title and cover, I was expecting a romantasy—but what I got was more of a slow-paced historical fiction with light magical realism. The presence of the old god felt somewhat like Death in The Book Thief: observing, sometimes intervening, but always lingering in the background.
I really enjoyed the framing device used in the second section—where a professor introduces the historical narrative as part of a lecture. It gave the story a fresh perspective and grounded it in the modern world. I wish that format had continued throughout the book—it added a thoughtful structure that made the rest of the sections feel more fragmented by comparison.
The romance between Astrid and Will didn’t fully land for me. Their relationship felt underdeveloped, especially considering the stakes Astrid takes on for him. We’re told she’s willing to sacrifice everything, but we see very little of their actual connection on the page—it lacked the emotional weight it needed to make that believable.
That said, I appreciated learning about the Black Death from a Finnish perspective, which is rarely explored in historical fiction. The atmosphere is heavy and immersive, and the magical realism adds an eerie, almost mythological tone.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for slow, thoughtful historical fiction with a folkloric thread, this might work for you. Just don’t expect romance to be central, and know that the story asks for patience. Not what I expected—but not without merit.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such hauntingly beautiful prose that feels like it was written by the elements that make up the earth and channeled through their speaker.
In the time before human memory, the world was wide and raw and full of teeth, and we were the things that inhabited it. But time passed. As it does.
Thank you Jayne Starwing for an eARC.
“To you, Little Byrd, I am Will Green. And I wish you no harm.”
Byrdfyre Covenant has beautifully combined elements of mythology, history, romance and horror to forge a book that is hard to put down. Jayne's writing style is so immersive you feel like you are Astrid's shadow. This was one of my most anticipated books of the year, and I am left feral and needing book 2 ASAP.
What color were his eyes? I cannot always recall every change, but I do remember that in that moment, in his eyes I saw a barely contained rage— an anger that felt born on my behalf, though that could not be, I thought, even as he confirmed it with his words. “I would kill him myself for harming you, but there’s no need. He is already gone.”
I really appreciated the subtle hints and possible foreshadowing by the use of modern texts and theories. It just added this whole extra layer of intrigue and even horror at some points in the story. Some twists came way out of left field and really left me thinking about the motivation and thought processes of some characters. The romance aspect of the story is very much like Astrid herself, unheard of at this time in history. It's a true slow burn that skirts the line of what is proper and what is right, and I loved the simplicity of a spark that begins to smolder. If you like FMCs who don't settle for being seen and not heard, then you will love Astrid as much as I do. If historical fiction with a side of fantasy piques your interest, and you can deal with some sprinkling of horror, definitely pick up Byrdfyre Covenant.
“You’re dangerous because you do not accept what little you’re offered. Not like they do. You fight. You speak. You expect more and better. You move against the tide.”
🔥Speculative Fantasy
💀Old God x Human
🔥Medieval Setting
💀Dangerous Attractions
🔥Faustian Bargains
💀Norse Mythology
🔥Pet Names
💀Promised To Another
Hope is strange. It burns hot at first, flame catching bark, bright tinder, but it exhausts itself quickly and leaves little behind— no coals, no charcoal. It turns to ash that blows away easily on the slightest breeze, becoming nothing.
🖤🖤🖤🖤
If you only want to see books I rate 4-stars or higher, get book recommendations or just connect and talk books follow me on Booksta
🖤🖤🖤🖤
Such hauntingly beautiful prose that feels like it was written by the elements that make up the earth and channeled through their speaker.
In the time before human memory, the world was wide and raw and full of teeth, and we were the things that inhabited it. But time passed. As it does.
Thank you Jayne Starwing for an eARC.
“To you, Little Byrd, I am Will Green. And I wish you no harm.”
Byrdfyre Covenant has beautifully combined elements of mythology, history, romance and horror to forge a book that is hard to put down. Jayne's writing style is so immersive you feel like you are Astrid's shadow. This was one of my most anticipated books of the year, and I am left feral and needing book 2 ASAP.
What color were his eyes? I cannot always recall every change, but I do remember that in that moment, in his eyes I saw a barely contained rage— an anger that felt born on my behalf, though that could not be, I thought, even as he confirmed it with his words. “I would kill him myself for harming you, but there’s no need. He is already gone.”
I really appreciated the subtle hints and possible foreshadowing by the use of modern texts and theories. It just added this whole extra layer of intrigue and even horror at some points in the story. Some twists came way out of left field and really left me thinking about the motivation and thought processes of some characters. The romance aspect of the story is very much like Astrid herself, unheard of at this time in history. It's a true slow burn that skirts the line of what is proper and what is right, and I loved the simplicity of a spark that begins to smolder. If you like FMCs who don't settle for being seen and not heard, then you will love Astrid as much as I do. If historical fiction with a side of fantasy piques your interest, and you can deal with some sprinkling of horror, definitely pick up Byrdfyre Covenant.
“You’re dangerous because you do not accept what little you’re offered. Not like they do. You fight. You speak. You expect more and better. You move against the tide.”
🔥Speculative Fantasy
💀Old God x Human
🔥Medieval Setting
💀Dangerous Attractions
🔥Faustian Bargains
💀Norse Mythology
🔥Pet Names
💀Promised To Another
Hope is strange. It burns hot at first, flame catching bark, bright tinder, but it exhausts itself quickly and leaves little behind— no coals, no charcoal. It turns to ash that blows away easily on the slightest breeze, becoming nothing.
🖤🖤🖤🖤
If you only want to see books I rate 4-stars or higher, get book recommendations or just connect and talk books follow me on Booksta
🖤🖤🖤🖤
July 30, 2025
The Byrdfyre Covenant had such a killer premise—I mean, the opening line alone had me immediately intrigued. Plague, prophecy, a girl marked by trauma and destiny? Yes, please. And I will say, there’s definitely something compelling about Astrid’s voice and the eerie, almost folklore feel of the world she’s navigating. It’s dark, moody, and brimming with tension, and that kept me going.
That said, this one was a bit of a mixed bag for me.
Astrid is a strong main character with a lot of internal grit, and I wanted to love her journey more than I actually did. Her dynamic with Will Green had some interesting layers—he’s mysterious and a little unsettling in a way that worked sometimes, but also left me questioning his vibe more than getting fully invested in their connection. I think I needed more development in their bond for the emotional stakes to land the way I wanted them to.
The world-building has moments of brilliance—there’s this sense of something ancient and heavy pressing in on every scene—but it also felt like it left me wandering a bit. I was looking for more clarity or grounding as things got more intense. The pacing dragged in places, and there were times when I felt like I was waiting for something big to happen, and then it just… didn’t hit quite right.
There’s definitely potential here, and I can see readers who love atmospheric slow burns and lyrical, haunting prose falling for this one. For me, it didn’t quite live up to the emotional impact it was building toward, but I appreciated the originality and ambition of it.
Not a new favorite, but I don’t regret reading it. Curious to see what the author does next
That said, this one was a bit of a mixed bag for me.
Astrid is a strong main character with a lot of internal grit, and I wanted to love her journey more than I actually did. Her dynamic with Will Green had some interesting layers—he’s mysterious and a little unsettling in a way that worked sometimes, but also left me questioning his vibe more than getting fully invested in their connection. I think I needed more development in their bond for the emotional stakes to land the way I wanted them to.
The world-building has moments of brilliance—there’s this sense of something ancient and heavy pressing in on every scene—but it also felt like it left me wandering a bit. I was looking for more clarity or grounding as things got more intense. The pacing dragged in places, and there were times when I felt like I was waiting for something big to happen, and then it just… didn’t hit quite right.
There’s definitely potential here, and I can see readers who love atmospheric slow burns and lyrical, haunting prose falling for this one. For me, it didn’t quite live up to the emotional impact it was building toward, but I appreciated the originality and ambition of it.
Not a new favorite, but I don’t regret reading it. Curious to see what the author does next
July 19, 2025
This beauty is a speculative fiction story set at the time of the Black Plague. It’s simultaneously visceral and ethereal, and will keep you hooked with its jumps between reality, fantasy, and present day historical notation.
The story follows Astrid, and her journey trying to survive the Black Plague. Her family and community provide real depth to her experience and reveal the different ways people cope with both trauma and impending doom. She is resilient, a fighter, a dreamer, and a reluctant leader as she tries to get her community to understand what’s coming. Watching her grow and change and resolutely search for a better place for her community is inspiring to read.
There’s a not-human character who has taken the likeness of a foreigner to Astrid’s country, and he attempts to influence Astrid and others, as well as the events that unfold. You can’t really tell if he’s a good guy or a malevolent force, but he seeks to ensure that Astrid lives. His sense of reality is different and Astrid fights her attraction to him. There’s some angst and slow burn spice amidst the tragedy and it’s just right.
Reading about the effects of the plague, the culture of Astrid’s time and her country, and how she and others are of so many varying opinions on how to move forward is very emotional. The revelations in the story kept me intrigued and the hope I had for Astrid’s survival kept me turning pages as quickly as I could. This is a very engrossing book that will challenge your mind and I highly recommend it!
The story follows Astrid, and her journey trying to survive the Black Plague. Her family and community provide real depth to her experience and reveal the different ways people cope with both trauma and impending doom. She is resilient, a fighter, a dreamer, and a reluctant leader as she tries to get her community to understand what’s coming. Watching her grow and change and resolutely search for a better place for her community is inspiring to read.
There’s a not-human character who has taken the likeness of a foreigner to Astrid’s country, and he attempts to influence Astrid and others, as well as the events that unfold. You can’t really tell if he’s a good guy or a malevolent force, but he seeks to ensure that Astrid lives. His sense of reality is different and Astrid fights her attraction to him. There’s some angst and slow burn spice amidst the tragedy and it’s just right.
Reading about the effects of the plague, the culture of Astrid’s time and her country, and how she and others are of so many varying opinions on how to move forward is very emotional. The revelations in the story kept me intrigued and the hope I had for Astrid’s survival kept me turning pages as quickly as I could. This is a very engrossing book that will challenge your mind and I highly recommend it!
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