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Talismans of Desire

Enslaved. Bartered. Property.
Two dangerous men pull her chain in opposite directions.


In the northern mountains, Kilda is forced to navigate hall politics to survive. She must master Seidr magic and become a Volva. A slave without value is only good for one thing.
Sacrifice.

Wearing a mask is expected of a thrall. But for Kilda, showing her face is the only path to power. The gods bless only those true to themselves.

Swinging above her rank, Kilda discovers enemies lurking behind practiced smiles as whispers from beyond the veil awaken her desire—and a hunger she can no longer ignore.

When forces older than memory stir, Kilda must decide who she will be.

She did not come this far to kneel.

Talismans of Desire is a Norse romantasy with dark themes, ancient magic, morally complex characters and deep roots in Norse culture and mythology.

Welcome to the north.

The saga continues in October with Talismans of Surrender.

529 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 29, 2026

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Eira Simmer

3 books4 followers

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5 stars
30 (53%)
4 stars
20 (35%)
3 stars
4 (7%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
2 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Deborah Ishmael.
2 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2026
I felt like the book started off a bit slow. I continued reading and found that I really enjoyed it. Im looking forward to reading book two.
1 review
May 29, 2026
I received an ARC of this book from the author and I was hooked from the dedication! (For those who break the mask to snap their chains)
I have recently gotten into Norse mythology based fiction and LOVED how Eira managed to weave historical detail and myth throughout Kilda's story. I found it easy to 'see' the world unfold in front of me, there was always just enough detail. I loved the pace of the book (so much happens!) I appreciate that Kilda's story is not an easy one, she makes several uncomfortable choices throughout the book which may not be choices I would make in life but are consistent with her character and growth. Looking at these choices through the perspective of the main character they can definitely be understandable. I appreciate that she pays prices for her mistakes and that you can feel her emotions so deeply and clearly. There is one scene in particular that is absolutely devasting (in the best way) in its description of anxiety.
The fact that Eira offered the prequel novella (Claim the Huntress) for free from her website so that I was able to get of a sense of her writing style and the story beforehand was wonderful. It is not necessary to read the prequel before Talisman of Desire, but does add to the experience. I will say I liked Claim the Huntress, but I loved Talisman of Desire and can't wait to see where Kilda's journey takes her in Talismans of Surrender.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
20 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 27, 2026
Where do I even begin? This book is truly a wonderful work of art. It is beautiful, enthralling, captivating, and just overall amazing. The history and magic woven throughout this entire book were so beautiful. Honestly, it has been a long time since I have read a book that made me keep thinking about it every night when I stopped reading to get some sleep. It was so hard to put this book down because it truly spoke to my soul. The way the author describes the world, artwork, weapons, history, magic, and characters pulled me in so deeply that I never wanted to leave. I laughed when they laughed and cried when they cried. The ups and downs were so wild and deeply felt. You can just feel the love the author has for this book and Kilda, and that made me love this book even more! It’s a whole new twist on the old gods, and I love how it intertwines cultures, myths, and legends. I was sad when it ended, but also excited to see where Kilda goes next. I am greatly looking forward to the next book in the series and cannot wait to see what adventures they go on and what she learns next. This is one book I know I will read time and again, but it is very refreshing and something new that I have been craving from a book. I think we can all relate to Kilda in one way or another, and that just makes life even more exciting.
Profile Image for KJReads.
67 reviews1 follower
June 11, 2026
Vikings....Norse mythology....this was a first for me and it definitely took me a little bit to get around the pronunciations and terminologies, but I loved how this plot progressed and I am sticking on board for the series!

The beginning was a bit challenging to get into the story. I struggled with the pacing of everything happening to Kilda and how it all transpired. However, once she was sent off to continue her training, I felt like the writing overall really picked up and it became irrestible!

SPOILERS.....



I am absolutely on board with Kilda and Ari; I feel they are some sort of fated mates and we need more!!

I am slightly confused on Freya's role in this book. She starts out as a goddess of fertility and love, someone respected, but then we find out she's evil and twisted forcing Ari into essential slavery. I feel like that part of the end of the book needed a bit more context, but I am sure book 2 will deliver us the details!

Overall, I really enjoyed this book as it was very different from my usual genre of books and once I got comfortable with the words, it hooked me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jay Hier-Jones.
20 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 27, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy received from author

Kilda comes across as very self-aware and emotionally perceptive, which made her such an engaging protagonist from the start. As her relationship with our MMC develops, some of their interactions felt a little more driven by miscommunication and emotional defensiveness, though I was still absolutely rooting for them because he had so many green flags. That said, I could still understand where those reactions were coming from emotionally, and it ultimately added to Kilda's growth once she began to truly trust him.

The Norse mythology elements were woven into the story really well, and I loved how naturally they shaped the worldbuilding and atmosphere. I especially enjoyed Ylvin’s reveal to Kilda near the end, along with Elof’s and the MMCs lineage. (Really recommend the prequel novella Claim the Huntress)

Overall, the mythology and atmosphere were really strong, and there was a lot here that kept me invested in both the story and the characters. I’m definitely interested to see where the series goes next!
Profile Image for Kristina C.
34 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 29, 2026
5 ⭐
2 🌶️

Tags: plot-forward, slow burn, political intrigue, mentorship, survival, viking & norse mythology

OMG this book truly blew my expectations out of the water. If you love Norse mythology and a take-charge heroine -- this is your book! Kilda is such a badass.

Through the twists and turns, and everything that life throws at her, she keeps her head held high and is guided by her desire for a better life. A better life for both herself, and for those around her. Her story is messy, and there are some trigger warnings (class discrimination and misogyny) but there is also found family, and a beautiful slow burn.
I love how Eira Simmer incorporated & interpreted pieces of Viking and Norse mythology & folklore. I cannot wait for book 2 (Talismans of Surrender) to see how Kilda's story continues.

Quotes:
"He could probably lift me with one arm and place me on his shoulder, like a little girl. Or a queen on her throne."
"Kil-da," she says slowly. "Meaning the source?"
"Fate is not carved or woven. It is taken. Shaped."
Profile Image for Randi.
20 reviews
August 22, 2026
Right from the beginning this book had me enchanted, completely immersed in an incredible world based on Norse mythology and magick. Everything was so vividly described I could see the story play out in my minds eye. (I have a vivid imagination...) And the protagonist really goes on quite the journey, learning about herself and the consequences of her choices and actions. Together we go along this journey and see just how Kilda handles learning her "place" and discovering her own magickal abilities, her relationships with the women she works with, and the men who fall into her orbit and how defiant and proud she is despite her station. And the romance and spice are the perfect level and woo is it 🔥🔥🔥! I loved the attention to detail and research Eira Simmer offered as a glossary to help anyone not familiar with the Norse Pantheon and history. It felt like an epic story, like the Odyssey or Beowulf! I can't say enough good things about this book, it's amazing. Thanks to the author for letting me read this!
Profile Image for Jessica Schramm.
8 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 27, 2026
Review of Advanced Reader Copy from Author:

So, first things first, if you like/love Norse Mythology in any form plus romance.......please please read this book. It is book 1, but I can promise you that you won't regret it. Once I started reading it, it had me trapped.....like I didn't want to stop reading even tho I knew I needed to because I needed sleep because of work schedules. But I said screw sleep, im staying up tonight until I finish this.

Kilda will take you on a journey. Yes, she messed up in the beginning by doing something.....but did she really mess up? It made her go on a self journey path to find her true self. And along the way she meets someone who helps her, maybe not in the way we would all expect at first, but the pieces begin to fall into place.

This book, is definitely a book that once you start you wont want to put down. I know I didnt want to anyways. Lol. I know I could put more into this review, but I dont want to give too much of the information from the book. So please forgive me for not going into greater detail. Just take a chance on this new author, you wont regret it. I can't wait wait for book 2, I'm already going to say I won't want to put that one down either. Lol.
Profile Image for Kat Hartwell.
39 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 28, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from author

I loved the idea of a Viking Romantasy, and I really enjoyed the prequel novella Claim The Huntress. Unfortunately this book didn't live up to my expectations. I found the pacing to be quite choppy and repetitive at times, and I really disliked the FMC. There were so many threads to the storyline that are to be carried over into a future book, where I feel it would have been better to do one or two well in this book and introduce further conflict later down the line. I was also thrown by some of the language used throughout, and while I'm not averse to swearing I thought the "F-bomb" was overused to the point of it pulling me away from the story.

I did enjoy the use of Norse Mythology throughout the book, and can tell that the author has a deep knowledge on the subject. I also felt that the romance was well done for the most part, and liked the tension and eventual pay-off towards the end.
Profile Image for Savannah Ramion.
11 reviews
May 30, 2026
I received an ARC for this book from the author.

First I want to say, I took my time reading this book and savoring it so I didn’t miss any detail. Reading the prequel, Claim the Huntress, will set you up for much success when Kilda, our main character, meets up with the characters from Claim the Huntress.

This book was appropriately paced for my like and depth in Kilda was built from the start to the end. There are characters that aren’t who they appear to be which pushes the narrative. If you want a book with a strong female character, this is the one for you. Kilda knows no bounds and knows what she is about, the good, the bad, the ugly. She learns and grows to be her true self.

I’m excited to see what the next book has for Kilda et al. While I did receive this as an ARC, it will be getting a place on my bookshelf amongst some of my other five star reads :)
1 review1 follower
May 30, 2026
I was lucky enough to be a part of the arc team and I am so grateful for it. I cannot begin to describe how kildas story has moved me. Once I really got into it I just couldn't stop reading. One line has stayed with me even after finishing book 1.
"Resisting the path only leads to wild roaming in the darkened forest of doubt
Absolutely loved everything about this book. The portrayal of the norse people and their culture and especially their magics as well. The characters in this book were so relateable and easy to connect with.
I absolutely cannot wait for the rest of kildas story! 500 pages was not nearly enough.
Everything flowed so well and even as someone who has read so many books in my life to a point i can usually predict whats happening i had so much fun guessing and scheming with kilda. Living with her was an experience I will not soon forget.
Profile Image for Heather Martin.
250 reviews5 followers
May 30, 2026
4.5 stars! This book is fantasy romance with magic, jotnar, and more. Kilda is a thief who ends up not where she intends. She ends up learning a lot and is changing a lot of things around her. Ari is a skald and he is keeping some secrets of his own. There is so many old secrets and stories coming to life and Kilda has to decide which way to go. The characters of this book are great and relatable. Kilda is a strong FMC. She doesn’t do what others want her to do. She does her own thing. Ari is a mystery and very loyal to people he cares for. I love the side characters too. The plot is easy to follow and is a quick easy read. I enjoyed the plot with the giants and can’t wait to find out more about them. If you like fantasy with some romance and a Viking/Norse setting, then you may enjoy this book! I received an ARC from the author.
Profile Image for Gwendolyne.
71 reviews
May 29, 2026
When Vikings and magic combine.
I got the pleasure of arc reading this beauty.

Kilda is forced to steal, to provide for herself and her father. She then is sold as a slave and gifted to a Jarl. She fights her desire for a man, learns to harness magic, and slowly rids herself of her shell. The woman she was forced to become in order to appease others. The new Kilda is a force to be reckoned with. She speaks her mind despite the possible trouble it could lead to. She accepts the love that patiently awaits her and transforms before your eyes.
This was a fantastic read. You can’t help but go through the emotions with Kilda as she goes on her journey. You feel her embarrassment, her anger, her passion and stubbornness.
If you enjoy Vikings and magic. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Thora Bilcke.
3 reviews
September 10, 2026
I received this as an ARC copy. Took me a while to read only due to my kindle dying but finally got a new one and finished it! I was originally drawn to this book as my name comes from Norse mythology. Having never read anything with Viking or Norse backgrounds before I was pleasantly surprised. This book was so good! The plot was fantastic and the characters were written in a way I could easily relate to and understand them. It had me feeling all sorts of ways from sad to happy and sometimes angry from the way certain things happened. There are definitely twists and turns in this story line and I can’t wait to see where the path leads for not only Ari and Kilda but also Eidunn and the rest of the thrall girls!
22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 27, 2026
An advanced reader ebook was provided in exchange for my honest review. I absolutely loved the lore in this story. It’s the 1st book in the Oaths of Ruin series, with a prequel novella you can get for free from Eira Simmer’s site. Although not necessary, it does give the backstory to two supporting characters. The story is engaging without being overwhelming. Kilda is a refreshing take on the idea of “the chosen one”. Her actions have dire consequences. She feels deeply and with her whole heart. Her insecurities are relatable. I wanted to both strangle and protect her. I will definitely be buying a physical copy if/when they become available.
Profile Image for Danielle Stanton.
1 review
May 29, 2026
I was part of the arc team and what an honour it was it’s an amazing read if you like norse mythology set in Viking era with a stubborn rebellious fmc that isn’t afraid to speak her mind in a world run by man with lots of plot twist that will have you at the edge of your seat and with some spicy or intimate sense I’m not kidding you when I say a lot of thought, heart and passion went into it, it is very well written with a beautiful front cover and the author has been amazing very lovely to speak to and was amazing in giving insight into the book I would recommend 1000% and have already been recommending the book to some friends and they look forward to reading it
Profile Image for Angel Burton.
11 reviews
May 29, 2026
I had the honor of being a member of the ARC team!

If you absolutely love Norse folklore come to life stories this is the book for you! @Eira Simmer has a prequel for this book as well and I definitely recommend reading them back to back! The world building the character building the infusion of mythology just stole my heart away! You were going to love the characters too. If you love a woman who breaks free from her “chains” and become becomes a powerhouse. I highly highly highly recommend this romantic story! I don’t want to spoil too too much until I give my official review but I am so very excited to share this with my book club ladies!
14 reviews
May 29, 2026
~Advanced Reader Copy provided by The Author~

This Viking inspired story is a great read!

Kilda is a strong woman of her time and culture trying to navigate some very difficult situations.

The path Kilda is walking is not a straight one and takes the reader along for the ride! She has her heart in the right place.

I definitely recommend reading the Prequel Novella " Claim of the Huntress" (available on Eira's website) first. It provides the reader some insight to the time and challenges.

This book does touch on some heavy themes so read the Trigger Warnings.

I am excited to see how Kildas journey develops in the next book!!!!
Profile Image for Kinsey.
47 reviews
May 29, 2026
As a lover of norse mythology/vikings and romantasy, I just KNEW I had to read this. Thank you so very much to the author for choosing me for an ARC copy!

Once I picked this one up, I could not put it down! It was such a beautifully written book, from the world building and mythology influence, to the FMC and MMC. Kilda is relatable and SUCH a badass. Everything about this book was amazing and I cannot wait to read more from this author in the future!!! If you're on the fence about this one, don't wait! Let it be your next romantasy summer read!
Profile Image for Lynette Blackman.
2 reviews
September 9, 2026
I received this free ready for the ARC of book 2. I loved it, and would happily pay for it. I felt like I was part of Kildas journey, and I was really invested in her. She made some strange choices, and dealt with the repercussions of those choices, which although strange, were understandable, especially as I felt I got to know her better as the book went on.
I really wasn't sure which way she would go re the 2 men that seemed to be interested in her, but glad she went the way she did. I can't wait to read book 2
Profile Image for Hannah  R Weaver.
139 reviews1 follower
May 30, 2026
This book is fascinating! I got this as an arc read and I haven't ever read a viking fantasy romance before and I thought to give this a try and she doesn't disappoint. Kira's journey is fun while it is fascinating to think about how vikings would live and sound like. This book helps you envision this and it is really cool and fun. I enjoyed it throughly . The characters and the plot are fascinating. Cant wait to read more!!!!!!
Profile Image for Kayla.
17 reviews
June 8, 2026
*I recieved and ARC copy from the author*

This book was an absolutely phenomenal read. The world building, the mythology, the enemies to lovers was all expertly crafted into this book I could not put down!!! If you've read fantasy before, but have not read much into the Norse mythology, this is a great little toe dipper. Definitely was a breath of fresh air from all the magical fae, vampire and werewolf books.
Profile Image for CorpseInFlames .
19 reviews
May 29, 2026
I absolutely loved this book, it's been one of the top books I've read so far this year and could not put it down to the point I read this and the prequel in 24 hours!! I'm really looking forward to the continuation of this story, to see the relationships, character development and world building continue 😊!!
45 reviews1 follower
June 2, 2026
I received this book as an advanced reader copy and will write my honest review. What an amazing read! Kilda might have been in chains, but she definitely was no slave. She remained strong in her conviction to be free, to love how she wanted, and to become what she was destined to be. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Sandra Maloney.
95 reviews4 followers
June 4, 2026
This Viking influenced romantasy is jam packed with betrayal, self discovery and magic! True enemies to lovers with a sprinkle of spice keeps you wanting more. Strong female characters help guide this story and I’m looking forward to seeing where this journey goes. Strongly recommend reading the Prequel first Claim The Huntress
This book was provided to me as an eARC
Profile Image for Fallyn Sims.
63 reviews1 follower
June 18, 2026
Definitely saw the changes and challenges in Kilda's growth. I really need a 2nd book to see if it affects her humanity and to see where Ari truly stands. This book had me yelling at Kilda to stop or not to do that more times than not. And it had such beautiful imagery describing the world it built.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
51 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 25, 2026
If you love viking lore this book is for you. Absolutely loved the storyline and twists. I'm usually pretty good at knowing what's coming but this one even got me.
A definite must read and I cannot wait to see what happens next!!!
Profile Image for Kimberly.
138 reviews7 followers
June 12, 2026
Great plot and influence from Norse mythology. Kilda is a strong stubborn woman who makes a mistake and ends up a thrall. It seems no matter how much she tries nothing turns out the way she thinks it will.

I definitely recommend reading the prequel. It gives the story of Kilda's teacher.
17 reviews
June 18, 2026
I really hate when high fantasy tries to include modern language. Repeatedly saying “guys” or my favourite “filter” when saying someone had no filter. It just didn’t make sense and meant a poor reading experience for me
52 reviews
June 20, 2026
ARC Review-


This book was so hard to put down, genuinely unique and so well written. I’ve never read anything about Norse mythology so it was all very new to me. Eira did a wonderful job at fully immersing you into the world of Kilda! I can’t wait to read the second book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews