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Hel
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
March 16, 2026
I was completely absorbed by this book. In the first week, I even missed my train stop, and on the days that followed, I only just managed to scramble off in time. But Hel is far more than just a cracking good read.
Katharine O’Brien explores how looking different, thinking differently, and who you are by birth shape the way the world responds to you—what it assumes you are, and what it demands you become. The prejudice that the outer self must mirror the inner one runs through the story: in the way Hel is treated, certainly, but also in the suspicion cast on the old woman in the woods, who gathers herbs and reads books so must be a witch, or the bent figure in worn clothes walking through the crowds who must be no one so is invisible.
Yet this is equally a story about resistance and self-discovery. About refusing to be confined by other people’s expectations. About finding beauty in a world of stone and ice, forging unlikely friendships, and—though the fates may weave their threads—choosing to walk your own path.
Katharine O’Brien explores how looking different, thinking differently, and who you are by birth shape the way the world responds to you—what it assumes you are, and what it demands you become. The prejudice that the outer self must mirror the inner one runs through the story: in the way Hel is treated, certainly, but also in the suspicion cast on the old woman in the woods, who gathers herbs and reads books so must be a witch, or the bent figure in worn clothes walking through the crowds who must be no one so is invisible.
Yet this is equally a story about resistance and self-discovery. About refusing to be confined by other people’s expectations. About finding beauty in a world of stone and ice, forging unlikely friendships, and—though the fates may weave their threads—choosing to walk your own path.
March 17, 2026
HEL by Katharine O’Brien is a quietly powerful debut novel that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it. It delivers a strong sense of place as well as characters with emotional depth. The story feels intimate and expansive at the same time.
The book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of relationships often capturing the unspoken tensions between characters— things left unsaid often carry as much weight as dialogue. Hel herself is compelling and layered, with flaws and courage enough for you to find yourself genuinely invested in her journey.
The writing is elegant but not overworked and overall, HEL is a thoughtful novel that will reward readers who enjoy character-driven fiction with emotional nuance combined with excellent world building.
I’m impatient for the next one.
The book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of relationships often capturing the unspoken tensions between characters— things left unsaid often carry as much weight as dialogue. Hel herself is compelling and layered, with flaws and courage enough for you to find yourself genuinely invested in her journey.
The writing is elegant but not overworked and overall, HEL is a thoughtful novel that will reward readers who enjoy character-driven fiction with emotional nuance combined with excellent world building.
I’m impatient for the next one.
March 16, 2026
A vivid and compelling story with great twists along the way. Excited for part 2 already!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A story I couldn't put down! Can't wait for book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thoroughly enjoyed, great world building and character work, excited to read more
February 15, 2026
A fantastic retelling of Norse mythology from a new view point. This was an enjoyable read and I’m so excited to read the next instalment.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews