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Heathen #1-4
Heathen, Vol. 1
Heathen, Vol. 1 collects the first four issues of the acclaimed fantasy series from creator Natasha Alterici
Aydis is a young Viking woman, who after being banished from her home, sets out on a mission to right the wrongs of a corrupt god. Her first move is to find and free the cursed Valkyrie Brynhild.
Gods, demons, and creatures of lore, Heathen is packed with fun intriguing characters and lavish artwork. The trade features an oil painting cover, cover gallery, and a forward by award winning lesbian fiction author Geonn Cannon.
Aydis is a young Viking woman, who after being banished from her home, sets out on a mission to right the wrongs of a corrupt god. Her first move is to find and free the cursed Valkyrie Brynhild.
Gods, demons, and creatures of lore, Heathen is packed with fun intriguing characters and lavish artwork. The trade features an oil painting cover, cover gallery, and a forward by award winning lesbian fiction author Geonn Cannon.
108 pages, Paperback
First published June 3, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 458 reviews
July 17, 2022
Vol. 1 ★★★★★
Vol. 2 ★★★★★
Vol. 3 ★★★★☆
RE-READ REVIEW: JULY 2022
There's something really incredible about re-reading a book 5 years later and loving it even more the second time. The queer rep made my heart ache in the best, heaviest way, the art was lovely, and the characters... *wistful sigh*
—————
ORIGINAL REVIEW: JULY 2017
A graphic novel about a lesbian viking who's been exiled from her home, so she goes off on an adventure to save the former queen of the Valkyrie, Brynhild, and to rescue other LGBTQ+ individuals so they don't have to fear the same fate she underwent?
Do you think it was even possible for me to read this fast enough?!
This story was AMAZING. The artwork is stunning, the characters are warm-hearted and pure, and the plot is so intriguing and fantastic. I'm always a sucker for a warrior heroine - especially a lesbian one! - and Aydis is genuinely just... flawless. She has such a good soul and wants so badly to do the right thing, and I loved every moment of getting to know her character.
Every side character in this story is also absolutely splendid. There's Brynhild, who's a raging badass despite nurturing her own inner turmoils. Freyja, who is mischievous and scheming and yet altogether a complete sweetheart. There's Saga, the fantastic horse, and the wolf brothers, Skull and Hati, who are endearing and a little bit comical... I just can't say enough good things about the cast of this graphic novel.
I cannot wait to read more of Aydis' story! I'd recommend this to anyone who likes a good fantasy adventure, especially if you enjoy solid queer rep and some fun viking lore.
Content warning: This book does have some minor nudity as well as portrayal of homophobia, so proceed with caution if either of these things bother you!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Literati Press for granting me a review copy of this graphic novel! All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
June 5, 2020
Totally not what I expected, a kick-ass lesbian viking fighting for the outcasts of Norse society. Plus, Brunhilde the Queen of the Valkyries struggling to end Odin's curse upon her. Sign me up please. The character interactions are marvelous. The art starts out a little rough but by the end I was really digging it. My only complaint is that it wasn't long enough. Hopefully we'll see a volume 2 soon.
Received an advance copy from Vault and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Received an advance copy from Vault and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2018
Totally great Find. I saw this at the library as recommended by a staff member in the staff reads. I picked it up thinking it looked interesting.
This is about a lesbian living in the viking culture going on her hero's journey. The gods of Norse mythology also play a role in this book. Brunhild is in her ring of fire waiting for someone to rescue her and marry her. Aydis gets through the tasks she needs too and frees Brunhild. The story goes on from there.
This has a lot of say about being gay in this culture. It is an amazing graphic novel and I can't wait to read more. I very much appreciate the art of this book and the story is engrossing. The characters are larger than life. There is some topless nudity from the goddess Freya. I would say it's for more mature readers. I'm excited to see more.
This is about a lesbian living in the viking culture going on her hero's journey. The gods of Norse mythology also play a role in this book. Brunhild is in her ring of fire waiting for someone to rescue her and marry her. Aydis gets through the tasks she needs too and frees Brunhild. The story goes on from there.
This has a lot of say about being gay in this culture. It is an amazing graphic novel and I can't wait to read more. I very much appreciate the art of this book and the story is engrossing. The characters are larger than life. There is some topless nudity from the goddess Freya. I would say it's for more mature readers. I'm excited to see more.
December 28, 2020
This is an overtly lgbt story with a Viking setting with a heroine who is fairly modern in her outlook and goals. Aydis insists that there's nothing wrong with her and her desire for women and sets out to disrupt the patriarchy (as represented by Odin). And I mean all of that descriptively and as background because the story itself, and the art supporting it, is outstanding. I really liked Aydis and her, perhaps quixotic, desire to right wrongs and challenge injustice.
And I particularly liked how broad the scope of the story is and that Alterici avoids the simple assumptions that would result if you thought this was going to be all-lgbt all the way. For example, there's a really sweet throughline with Brynhilde and .
Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the art that supports the mood and theme so beautifully. I particularly liked the subtler threads of love the story highlights (like with Freyja and Shannon's one-sided devotion) and some of the more casual asides that provided sometimes playful interludes along the way. So it's an unhesitating five stars, probably because of (rather than in spite of) the background "issue" theme.
A personal note about lgbt: I don't normally go there explicitly, but for those who may be confused I'll acknowledge that I'm both openly Mormon and openly bisexual. So I tend to straddle "issues" in a way that is perhaps uniquely my own. But I kind of hate even putting those in juxtaposition because they aren't as opposed as people sometimes assume. The problem is that saying so seems like an invite to argue politics and that's not what I'm interested in, particularly in this forum. So I just want to say that those experiencing the pain of ostracism and unfair prejudice based on their sexual orientation have my full sympathy. And stories, like this one, that are well-told and that avoid the simplistic and easy are engaging to me as a result.
A note about Chaste/Steamy: There's no sex in this story, explicit or otherwise. There's non-sexual nudity, though some of it is sex-adjacent or sex-implied in a panel or two. So while I don't consider it either chaste or steamy, others may easily come down on different sides based on their own tolerance levels.
And I particularly liked how broad the scope of the story is and that Alterici avoids the simple assumptions that would result if you thought this was going to be all-lgbt all the way. For example, there's a really sweet throughline with Brynhilde and .
Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the art that supports the mood and theme so beautifully. I particularly liked the subtler threads of love the story highlights (like with Freyja and Shannon's one-sided devotion) and some of the more casual asides that provided sometimes playful interludes along the way. So it's an unhesitating five stars, probably because of (rather than in spite of) the background "issue" theme.
A personal note about lgbt: I don't normally go there explicitly, but for those who may be confused I'll acknowledge that I'm both openly Mormon and openly bisexual. So I tend to straddle "issues" in a way that is perhaps uniquely my own. But I kind of hate even putting those in juxtaposition because they aren't as opposed as people sometimes assume. The problem is that saying so seems like an invite to argue politics and that's not what I'm interested in, particularly in this forum. So I just want to say that those experiencing the pain of ostracism and unfair prejudice based on their sexual orientation have my full sympathy. And stories, like this one, that are well-told and that avoid the simplistic and easy are engaging to me as a result.
A note about Chaste/Steamy: There's no sex in this story, explicit or otherwise. There's non-sexual nudity, though some of it is sex-adjacent or sex-implied in a panel or two. So while I don't consider it either chaste or steamy, others may easily come down on different sides based on their own tolerance levels.
April 22, 2022
A big ol' can of Viking whup-ass delivered by a woman who loves women and is sick and tired of any man or god who can't deal with that. Delicious. And the raw scratchy art is beautiful.
I must read all volumes now!
I must read all volumes now!
August 23, 2017
***Note: I received a copy curtesy of Netgalley and Diamond Book Distributors / Vault Comics in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of a brave female viking, set on a quest after being banished from her village/tribe(?) because of 'improper' behaviour.
Her goals and motives are never really explained, you must make suppositions and guesses. The plot isn't very strong in my oppinion, and a part of it was rather easy to guess from the first 10 pages and the synopsis.
Also, there are some side stories, but I couldn't find their utility or purpose, maybe they'll be useful in some later installments? (ex. the Skull&Hati part)
The graphics is mostly stylized, rather crude sometimes, but expressive and at the same time beautiful.
The colors are well chosen and I really liked how the author plays with the panes and the frames.
Overall, a pleasant to the eye graphics and a satisfying reading. 3+
This is the story of a brave female viking, set on a quest after being banished from her village/tribe(?) because of 'improper' behaviour.
Her goals and motives are never really explained, you must make suppositions and guesses. The plot isn't very strong in my oppinion, and a part of it was rather easy to guess from the first 10 pages and the synopsis.
Also, there are some side stories, but I couldn't find their utility or purpose, maybe they'll be useful in some later installments? (ex. the Skull&Hati part)
The graphics is mostly stylized, rather crude sometimes, but expressive and at the same time beautiful.
The colors are well chosen and I really liked how the author plays with the panes and the frames.
Overall, a pleasant to the eye graphics and a satisfying reading. 3+
July 8, 2017
** received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review **
Okay, seriously, my only complaint about this is that its too short! I need to know what happens next!
So, yes, the gist of this is that a Viking warrior, Aydis, is exiled from her home because she kissed a girl in her village. She sets out to rescue and free Brynhild, the immortal Valkyrie exiled by Odin. To be freed, Brynhild must marry a mortal worthy of crossing the sacred, magical fire. Aydis intends to do more than free Brynhild; she intends to free all women from "the oppressive reign of the god-king Odin".
This is an awesome premise! I love Aydis as a character! She's brave, funny, and her heart is in the right place. I really like Brynhild and I kind of have a crush on her, not gonna lie. As the story goes on, we meet other characters I really like such as Saga, Aydis' Wight, Shannon and Freyja. I adored Freyja! Aydis is a better person than me because I would have totally taken her up on her offer.
There's several themes about acceptance and standing up for who you are in this book and I think that's beautiful. I love that it comes from Brynhild and Aydis in different ways. In the end, Brynhild decides that she doesn't want Odin's power - she wants a power that's her own. It's such an empowering message and I wish there were more comics out there like this.
I really like the art and the colors. It gives such a cool feel to the world this takes place in.
Honestly, I have no complaints. I just want to read the next part of the story!
5 stars!
Okay, seriously, my only complaint about this is that its too short! I need to know what happens next!
So, yes, the gist of this is that a Viking warrior, Aydis, is exiled from her home because she kissed a girl in her village. She sets out to rescue and free Brynhild, the immortal Valkyrie exiled by Odin. To be freed, Brynhild must marry a mortal worthy of crossing the sacred, magical fire. Aydis intends to do more than free Brynhild; she intends to free all women from "the oppressive reign of the god-king Odin".
This is an awesome premise! I love Aydis as a character! She's brave, funny, and her heart is in the right place. I really like Brynhild and I kind of have a crush on her, not gonna lie. As the story goes on, we meet other characters I really like such as Saga, Aydis' Wight, Shannon and Freyja. I adored Freyja! Aydis is a better person than me because I would have totally taken her up on her offer.
There's several themes about acceptance and standing up for who you are in this book and I think that's beautiful. I love that it comes from Brynhild and Aydis in different ways. In the end, Brynhild decides that she doesn't want Odin's power - she wants a power that's her own. It's such an empowering message and I wish there were more comics out there like this.
I really like the art and the colors. It gives such a cool feel to the world this takes place in.
Honestly, I have no complaints. I just want to read the next part of the story!
5 stars!
June 21, 2017
Queer Viking adventure. Fun. Soft. Pretty bad-ass. Gorgeous art.
September 27, 2019
rep: lesbian mc, side sapphic characters
Galley provided by the publisher.
This is the story of Aydis, lesbian viking warrior who was exiled from her home for kissing a girl & went on a quest to free Brynhild, the former queen of Valkyrie. Look me in the eye & tell me this one sentence alone isn't enough to make you wanna read it! I know it was enough for me.
Our protagonist is incredibly brave - freeing Brynhild is actually a test of her bravery which countless men have failed over centuries! - and what she wants above all else is for everyone to be able to do with their lives what they wish. Rarely do you see such pure, gold-hearted heroes who don't seek any reward other than simply helping people. This story made me feel braver myself and like I'm ready to take on a whole world.
I also love the art here! It looks so messy which fits the story in amazing ways and adds it flavour. Honestly, it's stunning. I wish I could have posters of some of the panels.
(some partial nudity & homophobia tw)
Galley provided by the publisher.
This is the story of Aydis, lesbian viking warrior who was exiled from her home for kissing a girl & went on a quest to free Brynhild, the former queen of Valkyrie. Look me in the eye & tell me this one sentence alone isn't enough to make you wanna read it! I know it was enough for me.
Our protagonist is incredibly brave - freeing Brynhild is actually a test of her bravery which countless men have failed over centuries! - and what she wants above all else is for everyone to be able to do with their lives what they wish. Rarely do you see such pure, gold-hearted heroes who don't seek any reward other than simply helping people. This story made me feel braver myself and like I'm ready to take on a whole world.
I also love the art here! It looks so messy which fits the story in amazing ways and adds it flavour. Honestly, it's stunning. I wish I could have posters of some of the panels.
(some partial nudity & homophobia tw)
December 7, 2017
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
Thanks for Destiny howling libraries for mentioning that this is available on netgalley.
Thanks for the publisher for providing an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review.
Warning: contains many LGBT elements
I think that Destiny has done a great job reviewing this and so I will keep this short:
My new medicine school is killing me, I need a bit of time to settle in and sort things out so I was afraid of going into a slump, then I saw this! A good opportunity to stay motivated and do some reading; This was good from all aspects: the story line, the drawing style (also sometimes it would get too scribbled) and the characters...etc
will definitely continue other volumes :D
Thanks for Destiny howling libraries for mentioning that this is available on netgalley.
Thanks for the publisher for providing an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review.
Warning: contains many LGBT elements
I think that Destiny has done a great job reviewing this and so I will keep this short:
My new medicine school is killing me, I need a bit of time to settle in and sort things out so I was afraid of going into a slump, then I saw this! A good opportunity to stay motivated and do some reading; This was good from all aspects: the story line, the drawing style (also sometimes it would get too scribbled) and the characters...etc
will definitely continue other volumes :D
June 10, 2019
I feel like this is a book that a lot of people are looking for and don't know it. It's Norse mythology and super gay.
March 3, 2020
Rollicking fun with Vikings and Gods, with some witches and wolves thrown in for good measure. Great female, AND male characters, plus . . . a talking horse. Yee-haw!
July 26, 2017
Disclaimer: ARC via Netgalley
There are two mythological cycles that I have a fondness for – the Story of Troy and the Volsung saga. In fact, I prefer Norse myths to Greek. I’m not entirely sure why, but I always have.
Heathen is a comic book that draws upon ancient Norse stories but adds more.
The story is about Aydis, a young woman who is a warrior, despite her wearing bikini type clothing in the north. Unfortunately, Aydis has been labeled unnatural by her village because she likes other women. She does not want to get married, at least not to a man.
The story of how her life is saved is actually one of the most touching stories of acceptance, I’ve seen lately.
Because she has lost almost everything (she still has her horse Saga), Aydis decides to go on quest. She is going to brave the fire and rescue Brynhild, but this quest becomes more difficult as the focus on her quest changes – she is going to challenge the status quo in a more direct way.
To be honest, the artwork in this volume isn’t to my taste. This is just a preference issue, not an artistic judgement. Certain aspects of it are appealing – such as the horses and the wolves. The women just look a little strange. It’s like Aeon Flux – storytelling is great, but the art work is my type of thing. Yet, I couldn't put this down because the storytelling and characters are so great.
There is some humor here – particular when it comes to animals – and if you are familiar with Norse myths and legends (not the Marvel version, BTW), you will get some of the character names. The book also draws more closely on the mythology than the Marvel comic, and there is even historical reference to the coming of Christianity.
What is more important, and just lovely, is the book does examine the question of love and truth though the characters, including the goddess Freya who meets Aydis.
It really is a wonderful human story.
Look, I loved it so much, I went to see when new issues would be coming out.
There are two mythological cycles that I have a fondness for – the Story of Troy and the Volsung saga. In fact, I prefer Norse myths to Greek. I’m not entirely sure why, but I always have.
Heathen is a comic book that draws upon ancient Norse stories but adds more.
The story is about Aydis, a young woman who is a warrior, despite her wearing bikini type clothing in the north. Unfortunately, Aydis has been labeled unnatural by her village because she likes other women. She does not want to get married, at least not to a man.
The story of how her life is saved is actually one of the most touching stories of acceptance, I’ve seen lately.
Because she has lost almost everything (she still has her horse Saga), Aydis decides to go on quest. She is going to brave the fire and rescue Brynhild, but this quest becomes more difficult as the focus on her quest changes – she is going to challenge the status quo in a more direct way.
To be honest, the artwork in this volume isn’t to my taste. This is just a preference issue, not an artistic judgement. Certain aspects of it are appealing – such as the horses and the wolves. The women just look a little strange. It’s like Aeon Flux – storytelling is great, but the art work is my type of thing. Yet, I couldn't put this down because the storytelling and characters are so great.
There is some humor here – particular when it comes to animals – and if you are familiar with Norse myths and legends (not the Marvel version, BTW), you will get some of the character names. The book also draws more closely on the mythology than the Marvel comic, and there is even historical reference to the coming of Christianity.
What is more important, and just lovely, is the book does examine the question of love and truth though the characters, including the goddess Freya who meets Aydis.
It really is a wonderful human story.
Look, I loved it so much, I went to see when new issues would be coming out.
January 2, 2022
This graphic novel explores feminism and LGBT issues in a Scandinavian setting in which Norse gods and legends are real. The story is very moving and the art is beautiful. The use of Norse mythology in a story about a young female warrior find her way in the world is intriguing.
May 26, 2016
Queer positive with Vikings and strong female characters, what's not to like? The art was cool and different too. I will definitely read the next volume. 5 stars and best reads pile.
February 9, 2021
¿Vikingos, mitología nórdica, mujeres empoderadas y reivindicación de la libertad sexual y amatoria? Heathen estaba claro que era para mí. Con estas premisas, Natasha Alterici nos presenta el primer tomo de su serie Heathen, la historia de una vikinga repudiada por ser lesbiana y que emprenderá una gran aventura para demostrar su valentía (algo con lo que se supone que no cuentan las mujeres en una cultura tan patriarcal como la vikinga). No voy a contar nada de la trama, salvo que encontraremos dioses, valquirias, animales parlantes, aventuras, ansia de libertad y una clara intención de poner en el foco la diversidad sexual y abogar por los derechos LGTBI+.
Este primer tomo es muy introductorio, se nos presentan los personajes, se nos pone en contexto y nos deja con ganas de adentrarnos en la historia, sus últimas viñetas dan el pistoletazo de salida hacia el meollo del asunto. Quizá cojea en la trama, algunos de los acontecimientos son rápidos y superficiales y le falta algo de fuerza cuando tiene una base tan potente. Sin embargo, me ha gustado, todo esto no impide que el lector se sumerja en la historia y congenie con los personajes. En lo que destaca, y mucho, es en su arte. Cuenta con un dibujo que impacta y al que no le hacen falta palabras. Es en apariencia sencillo, tipo sketch, sin un trazo detallado, con fuertes contrastes y que, sobre todo, derrocha personalidad y fuerza. La paleta de colores, en tonos apagados, sepia en su mayor parte, me parece que está muy bien escogida y que ayuda a que sean las líneas las verdaderas protagonistas del dibujo.
En definitiva, me parece un buen inicio de saga, que, aunque queda algo cojo en el guion, deja con ganas de más y presenta una historia diferente y muy atractiva. Es una lectura que he disfrutado, me ha resultado amena y he pasado un buen rato. Espero mucho más de ella en sus próximos volúmenes que estoy deseando leer.
Este primer tomo es muy introductorio, se nos presentan los personajes, se nos pone en contexto y nos deja con ganas de adentrarnos en la historia, sus últimas viñetas dan el pistoletazo de salida hacia el meollo del asunto. Quizá cojea en la trama, algunos de los acontecimientos son rápidos y superficiales y le falta algo de fuerza cuando tiene una base tan potente. Sin embargo, me ha gustado, todo esto no impide que el lector se sumerja en la historia y congenie con los personajes. En lo que destaca, y mucho, es en su arte. Cuenta con un dibujo que impacta y al que no le hacen falta palabras. Es en apariencia sencillo, tipo sketch, sin un trazo detallado, con fuertes contrastes y que, sobre todo, derrocha personalidad y fuerza. La paleta de colores, en tonos apagados, sepia en su mayor parte, me parece que está muy bien escogida y que ayuda a que sean las líneas las verdaderas protagonistas del dibujo.
En definitiva, me parece un buen inicio de saga, que, aunque queda algo cojo en el guion, deja con ganas de más y presenta una historia diferente y muy atractiva. Es una lectura que he disfrutado, me ha resultado amena y he pasado un buen rato. Espero mucho más de ella en sus próximos volúmenes que estoy deseando leer.
June 25, 2017
Good! So I heard some good things about this series and the fact that its set in Norse Mythology is good enough for me! So the story is long ago The Leader of The Valkyries disobeyed Odin, so she was cursed and trapped on a mountain, one day she is saved by an outcast Viking woman named Aydis who is a lesbian, and the adventure begins! Going in this was not what I expected, I kind of expected a really dark Viking story, I guess maybe the covers and name made me think that? But the story is kind of like a Disney film, its got that bright fun adventure filled tone so many Disney movies have, and I really liked it! Artwork is nice to, its really hard to describe, its this weird match up of black and white with shading, with some colour thrown in, to give it this really unique look; the characters are also drawn like Disney Characters which added to the tone very well. Overall the artwork is really nice I got to say! Overall, ya this is a really fun comic book series that I highly recommend!
March 7, 2021
A young Viking woman is exiled from her community for kissing a girl and undertakes to free the captive Valkyrie queen Brynhilde, who has been cursed to fiery imprisonment for defying Odin.
Heathen addresses some hefty topics--violence against misfits, the danger and release of coming out, resisting an oppressive status quo--but it never feels particularly weighty. Is that an accomplishment or a failure?
Either way, I like where it's headed and I'm looking forward to v2.
----------------------------------------------------
Excellent on second read. The art stood out to me this time through. The wintry grey/brown/white sets up the infrequent oranges and pinks to pop and light up the page.
But what I really loved was the body language of the animals: apocalypse-wolves Skull and Hati look playful, or sleepy, or pained, or bored. You can see wight-horse Saga's outrage or panic or curiosity. Extremely well drawn.
Boosting my rating to 5.
----------------------------------------------------
Third read to prepare for v2.
Heathen addresses some hefty topics--violence against misfits, the danger and release of coming out, resisting an oppressive status quo--but it never feels particularly weighty. Is that an accomplishment or a failure?
Either way, I like where it's headed and I'm looking forward to v2.
----------------------------------------------------
Excellent on second read. The art stood out to me this time through. The wintry grey/brown/white sets up the infrequent oranges and pinks to pop and light up the page.
But what I really loved was the body language of the animals: apocalypse-wolves Skull and Hati look playful, or sleepy, or pained, or bored. You can see wight-horse Saga's outrage or panic or curiosity. Extremely well drawn.
Boosting my rating to 5.
----------------------------------------------------
Third read to prepare for v2.
July 5, 2017
Gorgeous artwork but the story lacked that sense of excitement for me.
March 30, 2020
Really fun story about an outcast Viking warrior woman and her dealings with Gods and immortals. The main character is tough yet vulnerable, and it handles modern issues (like lgbt prejudice) in a way that works without being cringy or preachy.
The only potential negative here is the art. I grew to love it, although it might not be everyone's cup of tea.
The only potential negative here is the art. I grew to love it, although it might not be everyone's cup of tea.
January 7, 2021
My husband recommended this to me (I'm not sure how he found out about it) and I was captivated by it. I love strong female characters, and this one is full of them, but it also has some compelling male characters who provide a contrast to the women.
Two things stayed with me since I finished the book. One is the young woman (I'm afraid this is going to be one of those stories where the names leave no impression on me, and this is my problem, not the book's) who confesses to "not liking men" and talks about how she feels wrong or broken in who she is. How marriage will "fix" her (this according to her father, but also in her own mind). And what struck me was not how awful this is, even though it's truly awful, but how quick we are as humans to look for what's "normal" (I love scare quotes today, don't I?) and assess how close or far we are from that standard. It's such a terrible tendency, and not just in terms of sexuality. I think of the people who did things that deviated from the norm and ended up changing the world, and how much richer we all are for it. Also, it breaks my heart for anyone to feel there's something wrong with them because they're different.
The other thing is how well Alterici establishes the corruption and horror of Odin's rule. She could have stuck with a commonplace narrative about how it's wrong to tell people they shouldn't be gay, or a broader story about female empowerment. But in including the story of Brynhild and Sigurd, she really drove home how very bad it is to be under the power of someone who uses the law to legally torment someone who displeases him. I don't think I've ever felt so moved by Brynhild's story as I was here.
We got this one from the library, but I went out and bought all three. Naturally, the second book is the one that arrives last. I look forward to seeing more of Aydis and her adventures. (Even though I shiver every time I look at her in her leather bikini. Aren't you cold, woman?)
Two things stayed with me since I finished the book. One is the young woman (I'm afraid this is going to be one of those stories where the names leave no impression on me, and this is my problem, not the book's) who confesses to "not liking men" and talks about how she feels wrong or broken in who she is. How marriage will "fix" her (this according to her father, but also in her own mind). And what struck me was not how awful this is, even though it's truly awful, but how quick we are as humans to look for what's "normal" (I love scare quotes today, don't I?) and assess how close or far we are from that standard. It's such a terrible tendency, and not just in terms of sexuality. I think of the people who did things that deviated from the norm and ended up changing the world, and how much richer we all are for it. Also, it breaks my heart for anyone to feel there's something wrong with them because they're different.
The other thing is how well Alterici establishes the corruption and horror of Odin's rule. She could have stuck with a commonplace narrative about how it's wrong to tell people they shouldn't be gay, or a broader story about female empowerment. But in including the story of Brynhild and Sigurd, she really drove home how very bad it is to be under the power of someone who uses the law to legally torment someone who displeases him. I don't think I've ever felt so moved by Brynhild's story as I was here.
We got this one from the library, but I went out and bought all three. Naturally, the second book is the one that arrives last. I look forward to seeing more of Aydis and her adventures. (Even though I shiver every time I look at her in her leather bikini. Aren't you cold, woman?)
May 11, 2018
I happened to stumble upon this graphic novel by mere chance but I'm thankful that I did. I am bereaved of words which make it possible for me to write a review that actually makes sense.
Norse mythology was already a huge plus for why I wanted to read this and I'm a fan of vikings and their strong warriors. When I saw that this story would follow a lesbian woman I was even more eager to read this because this is something I've never encountered before.
The women in this graphic novel absolutely kick ass and don't back down from anything. Hell to the freaking yes! Also the artstyle was quite different than what I was used to but after a couple of pages I was drawn into this novel and its story which doesn't let down in the slightest.
I'm very curious to see how this story will enfold in the next instalment and how Aydis will face Odin. I am more than ready. The all-father is an ass.
Norse mythology was already a huge plus for why I wanted to read this and I'm a fan of vikings and their strong warriors. When I saw that this story would follow a lesbian woman I was even more eager to read this because this is something I've never encountered before.
The women in this graphic novel absolutely kick ass and don't back down from anything. Hell to the freaking yes! Also the artstyle was quite different than what I was used to but after a couple of pages I was drawn into this novel and its story which doesn't let down in the slightest.
I'm very curious to see how this story will enfold in the next instalment and how Aydis will face Odin. I am more than ready. The all-father is an ass.
January 30, 2020
The writing is amazing, and the art is gorgeous. I just wish the female characters had been allowed to wear clothes. If the men weren't dressed in fairly standard medieval-ish clothes, it might not be quite so jarring that a Norse warrior woman goes into exile wearing her best bikini top.
December 11, 2018
Freakin loved this!
January 15, 2019
Galley provided by publisher
Rep: lesbian mc, bi li, non-white characters
Maybe more like 3.5 than 4, but this was so good. I never knew that a wlw warrior going on a quest to save a valkyrie and (maybe) kill Odin was something I needed but oh my god it was. Not to mention the art was really pretty. I only hope that there's no instalove between Aydis and Brynhild, if it ends up that way.
Rep: lesbian mc, bi li, non-white characters
Maybe more like 3.5 than 4, but this was so good. I never knew that a wlw warrior going on a quest to save a valkyrie and (maybe) kill Odin was something I needed but oh my god it was. Not to mention the art was really pretty. I only hope that there's no instalove between Aydis and Brynhild, if it ends up that way.
April 2, 2018
"Warriors don't fight for themselves, they fight for those who cannot fight on their own. You said you wanted to spare Brynhild her suffering? Well, I want to do the same, for her and for many other women."
What an uplifting and charming beginning to this amazing lesbian hero's story!! For something so short, it still managed to make me laugh and make me tear up. I'm looking forward to the next volume!!
What an uplifting and charming beginning to this amazing lesbian hero's story!! For something so short, it still managed to make me laugh and make me tear up. I'm looking forward to the next volume!!
November 14, 2017
I loved it! I really did, the art is great, the plot intriguing, the characters are well brought to life and very attaching, I enjoyed every page!
Highly recommended!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy!
Highly recommended!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy!
August 7, 2017
queer vikings? gorgeous art? yes! more please
full review here: https://catshelf.wordpress.com/2017/0...
full review here: https://catshelf.wordpress.com/2017/0...
January 24, 2023
Norse mythology. Valkyries. Vikings. Barbarians. Lesbian main characters. Talking horses and wolves. Honestly, how could 'Heathen' not be hyped? Or how could a fantasy comic book reader like myself - who also hadn't read anything specifically about Vikings until now - not get ridiculously excited in the name of Freyja and Valhalla and all that goddess goodness?
If you like 'Xena: Warrior Princess', 'The Legend of Korra', 'Red Sonja', and 'The Lord of the Rings', do yourself a favour and check out 'Heathen Volume 1'. Set to be Natasha Alterici's magnum opus, it tells the epic yet initially-understated tale of Aydis, a young warrior woman of improper clothing for the climate who has been exiled from her village for kissing another girl, Liv (in actuality it was a death sentence, which her father secretly spared her from). She sets out on a quest to free the immortal former Valkyrie queen, Brynhild, from her fire prison on a mountain. She pretty much completes this quest in the first issue and then... things get complicated. All I'll say is that Brynhild becomes a main character equal to and yet separate from Aydis.
These badass, outcast, emotionally-conflicted ladies have the same mission: the women of this series are on a personal journey to find and confront Odin, an ominous god-king kept in the shadows, and break his oppressive curse on Brynhild - doomed to love and lose for all eternity - once and for all.
Perhaps free all of female kind, too?
Many gods and other figures and references to Norse mythos feature in 'Heathen'. The most memorable has to be Freyja, the new Valkyrie queen who doesn't really like war or fighting. But she loves flirting and absolutely devotes herself to her, well, devotees; healing them from pain, tension, and all sorts of frustrations. Freyja simultaneously acts as the comic's rival character, the Shadow, the Shapeshifter, the Mentor, the Wise Woman, and the Gatekeeper; all while looking fabulous as she does so! Anything goes with her. Quite different from Marvel's Freyja, to be sure. However, she wishes for independence from men - mainly the Norse god of gods, Odin - like the other female characters. A free feminist icon, a literal goddess; but Frejya is not truly free (not wanting to be the Valkyrie queen is another indicator of this), and she will use her privileges to help others as well as herself towards a freedom that benefits everyone. She might be my favourite character after Aydis.
Aydis's quest focuses on her strengths, her bravery in the face of gods, her shyness around other humans, and her sexual awakening. She's not ashamed of liking women, but the hurt and betrayal she feels upon facing up against prejudice - not only from hate mobs generally but from her loved ones back home - profoundly affect her. Most of all she'll need to find the courage to never be afraid again of who she is, no matter the small-mindedness of anyone else, in such a primitive, misogynistic society. Aydis is a tough and noble fighter, but also kind of sweet and naïve, as an altruistic teen. She is like any traditionally male hero on a quest for internal (self-worth and confidence) as well as external (saving the world, standing up to gods or god-like dictators on home turfs) balance and catharsis; both self-serving and selfless needs of the protagonist are met and struggled with.
Challenges, obstacles, adversity, temptations: Aydis overcomes quite the trial on her Hero's Journey, with no doubt more, bigger and better things to come.
Linking to feminism, themes of religious conservatism, conversion and colonization are doubly present in this slow-moving yet fascinating story. Although .
The art is a gritty, grim, watercolour glory. Nothing is too detailed, or even very consistent, notably in the first issue. But it's sharp, unique, and the haunting atmosphere fits the story perfectly.
'Heathen Volume 1' is a great comic that feels incomplete, even for a first volume. The ending of the fourth issue is abrupt, but that's not enough to muddy my enjoyment of the seemingly-simple, spectacular gem. It is like a video game in graphic novel form: 'The Legend of Zelda', 'God of War', 'Silent Hill' (the look is similar, at least), and 'Horizon Zero Dawn'. And Aydis and Brynhild are the key playable characters.
I love that comics like 'Heathen' are continuing to be made - exploring new territories, breaking traditions and familiar formulas and character archetypes, and being as inclusive and diverse as Hel.
Final Score: 4/5
If you like 'Xena: Warrior Princess', 'The Legend of Korra', 'Red Sonja', and 'The Lord of the Rings', do yourself a favour and check out 'Heathen Volume 1'. Set to be Natasha Alterici's magnum opus, it tells the epic yet initially-understated tale of Aydis, a young warrior woman of improper clothing for the climate who has been exiled from her village for kissing another girl, Liv (in actuality it was a death sentence, which her father secretly spared her from). She sets out on a quest to free the immortal former Valkyrie queen, Brynhild, from her fire prison on a mountain. She pretty much completes this quest in the first issue and then... things get complicated. All I'll say is that Brynhild becomes a main character equal to and yet separate from Aydis.
These badass, outcast, emotionally-conflicted ladies have the same mission: the women of this series are on a personal journey to find and confront Odin, an ominous god-king kept in the shadows, and break his oppressive curse on Brynhild - doomed to love and lose for all eternity - once and for all.
Perhaps free all of female kind, too?
Many gods and other figures and references to Norse mythos feature in 'Heathen'. The most memorable has to be Freyja, the new Valkyrie queen who doesn't really like war or fighting. But she loves flirting and absolutely devotes herself to her, well, devotees; healing them from pain, tension, and all sorts of frustrations. Freyja simultaneously acts as the comic's rival character, the Shadow, the Shapeshifter, the Mentor, the Wise Woman, and the Gatekeeper; all while looking fabulous as she does so! Anything goes with her. Quite different from Marvel's Freyja, to be sure. However, she wishes for independence from men - mainly the Norse god of gods, Odin - like the other female characters. A free feminist icon, a literal goddess; but Frejya is not truly free (not wanting to be the Valkyrie queen is another indicator of this), and she will use her privileges to help others as well as herself towards a freedom that benefits everyone. She might be my favourite character after Aydis.
Aydis's quest focuses on her strengths, her bravery in the face of gods, her shyness around other humans, and her sexual awakening. She's not ashamed of liking women, but the hurt and betrayal she feels upon facing up against prejudice - not only from hate mobs generally but from her loved ones back home - profoundly affect her. Most of all she'll need to find the courage to never be afraid again of who she is, no matter the small-mindedness of anyone else, in such a primitive, misogynistic society. Aydis is a tough and noble fighter, but also kind of sweet and naïve, as an altruistic teen. She is like any traditionally male hero on a quest for internal (self-worth and confidence) as well as external (saving the world, standing up to gods or god-like dictators on home turfs) balance and catharsis; both self-serving and selfless needs of the protagonist are met and struggled with.
Challenges, obstacles, adversity, temptations: Aydis overcomes quite the trial on her Hero's Journey, with no doubt more, bigger and better things to come.
Linking to feminism, themes of religious conservatism, conversion and colonization are doubly present in this slow-moving yet fascinating story. Although .
The art is a gritty, grim, watercolour glory. Nothing is too detailed, or even very consistent, notably in the first issue. But it's sharp, unique, and the haunting atmosphere fits the story perfectly.
'Heathen Volume 1' is a great comic that feels incomplete, even for a first volume. The ending of the fourth issue is abrupt, but that's not enough to muddy my enjoyment of the seemingly-simple, spectacular gem. It is like a video game in graphic novel form: 'The Legend of Zelda', 'God of War', 'Silent Hill' (the look is similar, at least), and 'Horizon Zero Dawn'. And Aydis and Brynhild are the key playable characters.
I love that comics like 'Heathen' are continuing to be made - exploring new territories, breaking traditions and familiar formulas and character archetypes, and being as inclusive and diverse as Hel.
Final Score: 4/5
July 25, 2017
This book. Oh my god, this book.
I downloaded this from netgalley late last week. I was just scrolling around absent-mindedly in some different genres, and I requested it purely based on the art quality on the cover. I just dug the coloring style, and I was like yeah. I can do Vikings.
I had less than no idea that I was going to be impacted so deeply by this.
The comic opens on a young Viking woman. She stands in the snow with a horse, idly telling it an old tale of the Gods and Valkyries. In the style of an ancient storyteller, she talks of Brynhild, Valkyrie Queen cursed for the crime of disobeying Odin.
Her story comes to a halt when they're interrupted by her friend, and it's revealed that our storyteller (Aydis) has been driven out of her clan
Aydis doesn't seem scared--rather, she shows eagerness to go out into the world and chase her own destiny; soon, we learn that her design is to find the fabled Brynhild. The valkyrie's curse is to marry a mortal, but a mortal of her choosing. She waits, engulfed in a holy flame, for the mortal brave enough to earn her hand. Which is exactly what Aydis plans to do.
That's the most fantastic premise I have ever heard. Keep in mind, I'm a young queer woman, not much older than Aydis appears in the comic. And going in, I didn't know this was about lesbian Viking warriors. It might be the first time I've ever found representation of myself at this level without actively seeking it out.
But that's not where my love for this ends. It's so well executed, and heart-wrenchingly good. It combines that otherworldly, mythological vibe of an epic journey with some really powerful concepts and dialogues that just pack a punch.
For instance, it doesn't live exclusively in the realm of myth: it addresses its historical context. During our story, Christianity is beginning to spread throughout the Nordic regions. In one scene, We see firsthand how this is a changing world, yet the problems the villagers are so keen to punish the witch for resonate powerfully from a modern context.
Throughout the story, we're introduced to a diverse cast of characters from many walks of life, but their struggles are timeless. They're relatable, even though they're worlds away.
What originally drew me to this was the art, and I was not disappointed.
I'm a sucker for some masterful coloring, and that's exactly what I got. Colors hold a lot of power in visual storytelling, and Alterici uses hers masterfully. Things are eerie, or serene, or foreboding, or idyllic: the art draws you in and sets the mood wonderfully.
And the character designs! They're gorgeous. Everything about them is dynamic and exciting.
The other thing Alterici does wonderfully is weave in the mythological content--which is obviously a necessity for a story like this. Aydis is a storyteller--she doesn't identify
herself as such, but she returns to the craft time and time again. Through her retellings, we see glimpses of the world and reality she lives in, as well as how she sees the world: what makes her a warrior, and why she thinks it meaningful to be one.
We see iconic figures of Nordic mythology, as well as lesser known creatures and beings. But the narrative always stays true to the tone of that ultimate source content, and transports you to a time when magic and Gods were wilder and messier and absolute.
This was a completely beautiful work of literature and art. It was visually stunning, and it left me absolutely needing more. It tackles issues and ideas that are so close to my heart, and it does so in a way that's somehow responsible and brave. I want everyone to read this.
I downloaded this from netgalley late last week. I was just scrolling around absent-mindedly in some different genres, and I requested it purely based on the art quality on the cover. I just dug the coloring style, and I was like yeah. I can do Vikings.
I had less than no idea that I was going to be impacted so deeply by this.
The comic opens on a young Viking woman. She stands in the snow with a horse, idly telling it an old tale of the Gods and Valkyries. In the style of an ancient storyteller, she talks of Brynhild, Valkyrie Queen cursed for the crime of disobeying Odin.
Her story comes to a halt when they're interrupted by her friend, and it's revealed that our storyteller (Aydis) has been driven out of her clan
Aydis doesn't seem scared--rather, she shows eagerness to go out into the world and chase her own destiny; soon, we learn that her design is to find the fabled Brynhild. The valkyrie's curse is to marry a mortal, but a mortal of her choosing. She waits, engulfed in a holy flame, for the mortal brave enough to earn her hand. Which is exactly what Aydis plans to do.
That's the most fantastic premise I have ever heard. Keep in mind, I'm a young queer woman, not much older than Aydis appears in the comic. And going in, I didn't know this was about lesbian Viking warriors. It might be the first time I've ever found representation of myself at this level without actively seeking it out.
But that's not where my love for this ends. It's so well executed, and heart-wrenchingly good. It combines that otherworldly, mythological vibe of an epic journey with some really powerful concepts and dialogues that just pack a punch.
For instance, it doesn't live exclusively in the realm of myth: it addresses its historical context. During our story, Christianity is beginning to spread throughout the Nordic regions. In one scene, We see firsthand how this is a changing world, yet the problems the villagers are so keen to punish the witch for resonate powerfully from a modern context.
Throughout the story, we're introduced to a diverse cast of characters from many walks of life, but their struggles are timeless. They're relatable, even though they're worlds away.
What originally drew me to this was the art, and I was not disappointed.
I'm a sucker for some masterful coloring, and that's exactly what I got. Colors hold a lot of power in visual storytelling, and Alterici uses hers masterfully. Things are eerie, or serene, or foreboding, or idyllic: the art draws you in and sets the mood wonderfully.
And the character designs! They're gorgeous. Everything about them is dynamic and exciting.
The other thing Alterici does wonderfully is weave in the mythological content--which is obviously a necessity for a story like this. Aydis is a storyteller--she doesn't identify
herself as such, but she returns to the craft time and time again. Through her retellings, we see glimpses of the world and reality she lives in, as well as how she sees the world: what makes her a warrior, and why she thinks it meaningful to be one.
We see iconic figures of Nordic mythology, as well as lesser known creatures and beings. But the narrative always stays true to the tone of that ultimate source content, and transports you to a time when magic and Gods were wilder and messier and absolute.
This was a completely beautiful work of literature and art. It was visually stunning, and it left me absolutely needing more. It tackles issues and ideas that are so close to my heart, and it does so in a way that's somehow responsible and brave. I want everyone to read this.
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