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Valhalla
NO WARRIOR’S JOURNEY IS THE SAME
Death or glory? Dustin had never risked anything in his entire average life. After being hit by a car, death or glory is the ultimatum given to him by the Norse God Odin, “live the life of a warrior and bring fresh tales to Valhalla and, in return, I will grant you a second life on Midgard.” But is it even possible to live the life of an ancient Norse warrior in the twenty-first century?
Death or glory? Dustin had never risked anything in his entire average life. After being hit by a car, death or glory is the ultimatum given to him by the Norse God Odin, “live the life of a warrior and bring fresh tales to Valhalla and, in return, I will grant you a second life on Midgard.” But is it even possible to live the life of an ancient Norse warrior in the twenty-first century?
227 pages, Paperback
Published November 23, 2025
2 people want to read
About the author
Alan Meredith
6 books5 followersHi! I’m Alan Meredith, CFA Spooky Shorts Winner 2024! I like to write books where you are never quite sure whether the events of the story are actually happening, or whether they are the main character’s delusion. Mark Twain did say, “Write what you know.” Shimmer, Midas and my latest book Valhalla, fall into this self-styled genre I’m titling ‘Delusional Fantasy’. Sometimes I slip into my first love, Horror. Lucas, Father’s Day and Self Defence all fall into this well-established genre. For those who want to know more you can find me on Facebook & Good Reads.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
November 18, 2025
Out of every author I read I gotta say Alan is in the top of my of ‘most imaginative mind’ authors
This book centres around Dustin and Odin, it is part fantasy and part reality and part reality fantasy!
It is more than different but then in a crowded room ( bookshop? ) that’s good, some of the writing is more than funny and had me laughing ( Dustin’s work at a No Win No Fee job being some of the loudest laughs inc the saga of the squirrel and him telling the HR lady exactly what he thought) Some of the writing dark and some pure fantastical
When I first got this book I decided to read the first page, a few
hours later had finished it, without moving, I was 100% ‘into it’ and even checked to see if a sword tattoo had appeared on my leg such was my belief in this book……that I knew wasn’t real, but…
I kinda smiled that the trigger warnings of which they are many are at the end of the book, the warnings include suicide, murder, child abandonment, violence, masturbation etc the list goes on although tbc I think the triggers are more triggering than the actual subjects covered in the book in the way they are covered….but its fair warning I guess
On paper this wouldn’t be for me, in reality I again was introduced to a genre or at least part introduced to Fantasy something I have never read before
An evocative read peppered with laughs but also really emotive and sad at other times
This book centres around Dustin and Odin, it is part fantasy and part reality and part reality fantasy!
It is more than different but then in a crowded room ( bookshop? ) that’s good, some of the writing is more than funny and had me laughing ( Dustin’s work at a No Win No Fee job being some of the loudest laughs inc the saga of the squirrel and him telling the HR lady exactly what he thought) Some of the writing dark and some pure fantastical
When I first got this book I decided to read the first page, a few
hours later had finished it, without moving, I was 100% ‘into it’ and even checked to see if a sword tattoo had appeared on my leg such was my belief in this book……that I knew wasn’t real, but…
I kinda smiled that the trigger warnings of which they are many are at the end of the book, the warnings include suicide, murder, child abandonment, violence, masturbation etc the list goes on although tbc I think the triggers are more triggering than the actual subjects covered in the book in the way they are covered….but its fair warning I guess
On paper this wouldn’t be for me, in reality I again was introduced to a genre or at least part introduced to Fantasy something I have never read before
An evocative read peppered with laughs but also really emotive and sad at other times
November 19, 2025
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours and the author for this ARC!
The sketch at the start of the book already had me sold, before the story even began - it's gorgeous! I'm discovering a sincere fondness for the crossover between comedy and urban fantasy, with some of my favourite books of the last year or so falling into this dual genre.
The book struck one of my favourite balances between "wow this is wild" and "is any of this happening?" - I love an unreliable narrator, and I also love the uncertainty of not even knowing if the narrator is unreliable. According to the author, this is his signature style, so I'll be adding the rest of his books to my tbr!
This novel blended norse mythology (very well - loved to see the ravens!) with the woes of modern life, to create a story that felt both completely realistic (the parents were a real highlight for me), and with perfect characterisation of the gods. I bought into every second of it!
Now, if the author could advise me on getting my own tattoo like Dustin's, I'd be very grateful!
The sketch at the start of the book already had me sold, before the story even began - it's gorgeous! I'm discovering a sincere fondness for the crossover between comedy and urban fantasy, with some of my favourite books of the last year or so falling into this dual genre.
The book struck one of my favourite balances between "wow this is wild" and "is any of this happening?" - I love an unreliable narrator, and I also love the uncertainty of not even knowing if the narrator is unreliable. According to the author, this is his signature style, so I'll be adding the rest of his books to my tbr!
This novel blended norse mythology (very well - loved to see the ravens!) with the woes of modern life, to create a story that felt both completely realistic (the parents were a real highlight for me), and with perfect characterisation of the gods. I bought into every second of it!
Now, if the author could advise me on getting my own tattoo like Dustin's, I'd be very grateful!
November 18, 2025
Ordinarily I wouldnt even entertain the idea of reading this. Its so far from what I normally read. Enter the word fantasy into the equation and I develop a weird sort of tic.
However, I have read Alan's work before, and I have always enjoyed it. So I thought i would give it a go.
So I sit here, having read it cover to cover. mouth open, I not sure whether in shock or awe. Ive pissed myself laughing and winced. Ive been thoroughly entertained, and for a book, thats the sole purpose right.
It does venture into the fantasy realm, but not enough to make that tic appear again. It adds to the story, and I enjoyed it.
If you're looking for something different, if you like fantasy, if you like mystery, if you aren't bothered by trigger warnings (a long list of which is included at the end) then I really do urge you to give this a try.
However, I have read Alan's work before, and I have always enjoyed it. So I thought i would give it a go.
So I sit here, having read it cover to cover. mouth open, I not sure whether in shock or awe. Ive pissed myself laughing and winced. Ive been thoroughly entertained, and for a book, thats the sole purpose right.
It does venture into the fantasy realm, but not enough to make that tic appear again. It adds to the story, and I enjoyed it.
If you're looking for something different, if you like fantasy, if you like mystery, if you aren't bothered by trigger warnings (a long list of which is included at the end) then I really do urge you to give this a try.
November 20, 2025
Ok, so fantasy reads are definitely not my forte - but I have been reading more and more this year and I have to also admit to having a bit of a love for all things Norse God - so this title and cover really stood out and shouted at me!
This was such an unusual concept and mixed what looked like a present day storyline with that of a time slip(?) or fantasy genre as Dustin and the Norse God Odin meet and make a deal to allow Dustin to live.
Well, I was hooked from the start!
The writing style was intriguing, exciting and at times most humorous too and this worked so well within this mix of genres.
I already love Odin and he was so pleased to see him authentically portrayed here.
Dustin, well, he brings a reality to the situation that really should feel ridiculous, but actually feels extremely relatable.
Covering elements of Norse mythology alongside everyday modern issues, I really enjoyed exploring life with Dustin.
Now, this does come with a hefty list of content warnings - they're at the end of the book!! - if you think you need to, definitely check these out before reading - but I think the way most of these topics were woven into the storyline, they work - although I generally don't usually have any issues.
This was an absolute blast and I really must read more from this author in the future.
This was such an unusual concept and mixed what looked like a present day storyline with that of a time slip(?) or fantasy genre as Dustin and the Norse God Odin meet and make a deal to allow Dustin to live.
Well, I was hooked from the start!
The writing style was intriguing, exciting and at times most humorous too and this worked so well within this mix of genres.
I already love Odin and he was so pleased to see him authentically portrayed here.
Dustin, well, he brings a reality to the situation that really should feel ridiculous, but actually feels extremely relatable.
Covering elements of Norse mythology alongside everyday modern issues, I really enjoyed exploring life with Dustin.
Now, this does come with a hefty list of content warnings - they're at the end of the book!! - if you think you need to, definitely check these out before reading - but I think the way most of these topics were woven into the storyline, they work - although I generally don't usually have any issues.
This was an absolute blast and I really must read more from this author in the future.
November 29, 2025
I’ve tried to write my review a few times but it’s hard to put into words, this was a really good read emotional at times, humour too but also woven into the story is the Norse god Odin who appears to Dustin after his accident. It’s hard to explain how it works but it really does, I was completely hooked from start to finish.
I found I raced through this book, the way it’s been written it’s so easy to just get carried swept away in Dustin’s story.
#alanmeredith #valhalla @zooloosbooktours #zooloosbooktours @foundshimmer
I found I raced through this book, the way it’s been written it’s so easy to just get carried swept away in Dustin’s story.
#alanmeredith #valhalla @zooloosbooktours #zooloosbooktours @foundshimmer
November 30, 2025
🤺 A rousing, big-hearted romp 🤺
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
“Glory isn’t a place you reach—it’s the part of you that refuses to stay small.”
Alan Meredith takes a premise that could have been pure chaos—Odin, a car accident, and a very average man being handed a warrior’s ultimatum—and turns it into something unexpectedly soulful, sharply funny, and quietly stirring. Valhalla is less about battles and more about bravery, less about beards and bloodshed and more about choosing to live fully, even when the world insists you’re ordinary.
Dustin is a wonderfully relatable protagonist: a man who has drifted through life without ever quite stepping into it. When Odin himself appears with an offer that feels half cosmic joke, half divine challenge, Dustin’s transformation becomes the beating heart of the novel. His journey is electric without being overwrought—an emotional and literal odyssey that tests not only his courage but his understanding of what it means to be alive in the first place. Meredith keeps the tone nimble, blending humour with poignancy and letting the Norse mythos breathe inside a modern, often baffling world.
There’s a lovely resonance to the idea of 'earning' a second life by living the first with intention. Dustin’s attempts to embody an ancient warrior spirit in the 21st century are alternately exhilarating, chaotic, and unexpectedly moving. And Meredith writes them with a warmth that lingers, offering moments of genuine reflection amid the adrenaline.
Verdict: A bold, heartfelt adventure that blends myth and modernity with charm, humour, and a surprisingly emotional punch. A must-read for anyone who loves character-driven quests with soul.
December 2, 2025
Hnefatafl, Odin, Glam... the story of Dustin is excellent. A man who seems stuck in a thankless job, with a girlfriend his parents don't like, ends up being drinking buddies with Odin.
Odin, teaching Dustin the art of Hnefatafl, shows him a way of life. Sacrifice the king or run away to fight another day.
But is all as it seems? Is Odin a figment of Dustin's psche or does the god really befriend him. In which case, why?
An absolutely excellent read. I was an Alan Meredith virgin, I am now hunting down his other works to read. The author does not shy away from using excellent expletives, uses arse properly instead of ass and is an all-round good read.
Odin, teaching Dustin the art of Hnefatafl, shows him a way of life. Sacrifice the king or run away to fight another day.
But is all as it seems? Is Odin a figment of Dustin's psche or does the god really befriend him. In which case, why?
An absolutely excellent read. I was an Alan Meredith virgin, I am now hunting down his other works to read. The author does not shy away from using excellent expletives, uses arse properly instead of ass and is an all-round good read.
November 23, 2025
He has an ability to make you completely empathise with characters both good and evil - no mean feat and something I certainly feel elevates him to a class of writer that really does deserve to be widely known.
In Valhalla he has pulled it off again. He has managed to blend what I now see as trademark Meredith writing: characters which stay with you long after the book has finished; a huge dose of humour; a story which feels completely fresh and original - something that is getting harder and harder to do.
The story in a nutshell: Dustin wakes up from being involved in a car crash, only to find he has been saved by the Norse God, Odin who begins to coach him and mould him into a warrior and to live the life of a warrior. Not easy to do in modern society. But a lot of the moulding really comes from Allana, the girl he falls in love with and as the story unfolds there is humour, tenderness and heartache: a human story in the truest sense of the word. In the words of Freddy Mercury "is it real or is it fantasy?". Another Meredith trademark is that you don’t quite know, and this allows for some wonderful interplay between you and the story and the characters, so the question becomes "do you believe it's real?" I'll let you answer that one for yourself as you go on this journey.
In Valhalla he has pulled it off again. He has managed to blend what I now see as trademark Meredith writing: characters which stay with you long after the book has finished; a huge dose of humour; a story which feels completely fresh and original - something that is getting harder and harder to do.
The story in a nutshell: Dustin wakes up from being involved in a car crash, only to find he has been saved by the Norse God, Odin who begins to coach him and mould him into a warrior and to live the life of a warrior. Not easy to do in modern society. But a lot of the moulding really comes from Allana, the girl he falls in love with and as the story unfolds there is humour, tenderness and heartache: a human story in the truest sense of the word. In the words of Freddy Mercury "is it real or is it fantasy?". Another Meredith trademark is that you don’t quite know, and this allows for some wonderful interplay between you and the story and the characters, so the question becomes "do you believe it's real?" I'll let you answer that one for yourself as you go on this journey.
November 21, 2025
I loved the sound of this book, not to mention the fabulous cover, so couldn’t wait to open the first page.
When Dustin, after a car accident, is offered a second chance of life by Odin, he grabs the opportunity without quite realising what he has agreed to. While the title suggests battles, this book is mainly about a man whose life is transformed as he slowly begins to discover the truth of how he can really live his life. There is some wonderful humour throughout and it was a joy to cheer on this ‘ordinary’ man. The Norse mythology is woven wonderfully within the pages as Dustin’s journey of discovery asks the question, can a man live the life of a Norse warrior in the modern world.
Alan has an uncanny knack of creating very relatable protagonists, and in Valhalla, Dustin truly is one of those characters you’ll love and hope to meet again.
When Dustin, after a car accident, is offered a second chance of life by Odin, he grabs the opportunity without quite realising what he has agreed to. While the title suggests battles, this book is mainly about a man whose life is transformed as he slowly begins to discover the truth of how he can really live his life. There is some wonderful humour throughout and it was a joy to cheer on this ‘ordinary’ man. The Norse mythology is woven wonderfully within the pages as Dustin’s journey of discovery asks the question, can a man live the life of a Norse warrior in the modern world.
Alan has an uncanny knack of creating very relatable protagonists, and in Valhalla, Dustin truly is one of those characters you’ll love and hope to meet again.
November 23, 2025
A great story. Dustin is in an accident and experiences ...well, you'll have to read it to find out. A fascinating character backed up by a wonderfully diverse cast. Read it - you're in for a fun ride. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews