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The Norse Chronicles #2
Arctic Dawn
Alone and exhausted after her month-long sojourn as a shooting star, Solina Mundy flees to southern California to lie low, recuperate, and plot a survival strategy. The one person she trusts to watch her back is her best friend, Skyla Ramirez. But Skyla has been missing for weeks.
The arrival of a dangerous stranger and the discovery of a legendary weapon of mass destruction forces Solina out of hiding and back into the fight for her life. Solina knows she won’t last long on her own. She must find out what happened to Skyla and unite her contentious allies if she hopes to track down this devastating weapon before her enemies use it to burn the world to ash.
The arrival of a dangerous stranger and the discovery of a legendary weapon of mass destruction forces Solina out of hiding and back into the fight for her life. Solina knows she won’t last long on her own. She must find out what happened to Skyla and unite her contentious allies if she hopes to track down this devastating weapon before her enemies use it to burn the world to ash.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 5, 2016
8 people are currently reading
333 people want to read
About the author
Karissa Laurel
19 books246 followersKarissa lives in North Carolina with her husband, semi-feral outside cats, and occasional in-laws. Now empty-nesters, Karissa and her husband spend their free time adventuring on their motorcycles. She also loves to crochet, kayak, and read everything from sci-fi and fantasy, to romance, cozy mysteries, and non-fiction.
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July 5, 2016
Book Two in the Norse Chronicles series
Spoiler free review
I loved book one, it was the perfect mix of fantasy, action, suspense, with a tease of romance and great writing. Book two, took all that was generated in the first book and intensified it. I did not want it to stop, I dreaded the ending which came too soon. My mind carried the story into my dreams, working out some of the problems for the characters.
The story is written with such beautiful imagery, it's poetic at times. The words twisted to squeeze every emotion out of the scenes. I found myself re-reading lines just to hear them again.
Solina, she is a woman I can admire. She is faced with two or more hot hunky male gods and she doesn't jump on them ripping their clothes off. How she can hold back is a wonder to me. This is a character that thinks things through. It irritated the crunch off my toast a few times but I enjoyed the story more without the typical romantic tangle in the middle of a life or death brawl. This girl takes her saving the world job seriously. She'll think about the body slamming mojo after the job is done. Thank the gods for a thinking female main character.
There is so much happening in this book, when it rains it pours even for Norse gods.
Thorin, son of Thor, ancient and yet young in this human world develops into a more relatable god man. His history, his beliefs and his choices. He is a god, powerful, ancient, and sometimes an idiot. Solina, after a long time away must come out of hiding to search for her friend Skyla and track down a very dangerous weapon. her powers are still in the learning phase but she tries and never gives up. Skyla, the tough as nails Marine finds herself at a well of information, Val does a lot of disappearing, and touching. Helen, well her wicked ways continue. There are emotional distractions on top of the world saving must do know actions that churn and drive this reader and the characters nuts. We all needed a spa day after that ending.
Let's talk about the ending. Naughty Ms. Laurel, you tease ! Yes, there was a terrific cliffhanger. Now I must hang and swing over the sharp edge till book three is released. That was brutal of you and I thank you for it.
I was lucky enough to be given an advanced reading copy for my reading pleasure and review.
Spoiler free review
I loved book one, it was the perfect mix of fantasy, action, suspense, with a tease of romance and great writing. Book two, took all that was generated in the first book and intensified it. I did not want it to stop, I dreaded the ending which came too soon. My mind carried the story into my dreams, working out some of the problems for the characters.
The story is written with such beautiful imagery, it's poetic at times. The words twisted to squeeze every emotion out of the scenes. I found myself re-reading lines just to hear them again.
Solina, she is a woman I can admire. She is faced with two or more hot hunky male gods and she doesn't jump on them ripping their clothes off. How she can hold back is a wonder to me. This is a character that thinks things through. It irritated the crunch off my toast a few times but I enjoyed the story more without the typical romantic tangle in the middle of a life or death brawl. This girl takes her saving the world job seriously. She'll think about the body slamming mojo after the job is done. Thank the gods for a thinking female main character.
There is so much happening in this book, when it rains it pours even for Norse gods.
Thorin, son of Thor, ancient and yet young in this human world develops into a more relatable god man. His history, his beliefs and his choices. He is a god, powerful, ancient, and sometimes an idiot. Solina, after a long time away must come out of hiding to search for her friend Skyla and track down a very dangerous weapon. her powers are still in the learning phase but she tries and never gives up. Skyla, the tough as nails Marine finds herself at a well of information, Val does a lot of disappearing, and touching. Helen, well her wicked ways continue. There are emotional distractions on top of the world saving must do know actions that churn and drive this reader and the characters nuts. We all needed a spa day after that ending.
Let's talk about the ending. Naughty Ms. Laurel, you tease ! Yes, there was a terrific cliffhanger. Now I must hang and swing over the sharp edge till book three is released. That was brutal of you and I thank you for it.
I was lucky enough to be given an advanced reading copy for my reading pleasure and review.
June 16, 2017
***** 4.5 Stars *****
Cannot be read as a standalone
Solina is back! She's on the run. Hiding from the mythological beings trying to kill her. But she can't run forever. Her past finds her, and she ends up running back to Thorin and the gang for help.
The group run into so many problems, and no one can be trusted. The Valkyries are compromised, a wolf keeps hunting Solina, and old grudges emerge. This story moves like a freight train.
I absolutely loved this 2nd book. Questions get answered, but the plot thickens and more problems come up. Just like Midnight Burning, I read this story quickly. The action scenes and bits and pieces of romance kept me glued to the pages.
The only issue I had with this book was my memory. I read the first book about a year ago, and I had a difficult time trying to remember all the characters and plot. So much happened in book 1, I was hitting my head a couple times. But almost everything came back to me as I read on. I can't wait for book 3. If you are looking for an active fantasy with light romance, this is the perfect book to pick up.
Cannot be read as a standalone
Solina is back! She's on the run. Hiding from the mythological beings trying to kill her. But she can't run forever. Her past finds her, and she ends up running back to Thorin and the gang for help.
The group run into so many problems, and no one can be trusted. The Valkyries are compromised, a wolf keeps hunting Solina, and old grudges emerge. This story moves like a freight train.
I absolutely loved this 2nd book. Questions get answered, but the plot thickens and more problems come up. Just like Midnight Burning, I read this story quickly. The action scenes and bits and pieces of romance kept me glued to the pages.
The only issue I had with this book was my memory. I read the first book about a year ago, and I had a difficult time trying to remember all the characters and plot. So much happened in book 1, I was hitting my head a couple times. But almost everything came back to me as I read on. I can't wait for book 3. If you are looking for an active fantasy with light romance, this is the perfect book to pick up.
July 19, 2016
So, clearly Solina’s life is NOT going back to quiet normality anytime soon. Just when she finally gets both feet on the ground again, after going all shooting star, exhausted, in need of a plan to survive, Solina had planned to lay low for a while, but Skyla is missing and she needs her best friend by her side, a friendly face and a staunch ally. Danger is coming, of the deadliest kind and Solina doesn’t have time to feel 100%. It’s time to suck it up and gather her ragtag, and often irritating group, find Skyla and save the world from a legendary weapon of mass destruction. The clock is ticking, the tension is sky rocketing and Solina must use her best strategies to stop the destruction of the world.
Hang on, because Karissa Laurel is taking us back into her Norse Chronicles series with Arctic Dawn! Rest up, this is non-stop action from the get go and Solina is the girl on a mission to kick butt and take names later, never flinching, never missing a beat and oh yes, she is pretty smart about it, too! Seriously, you think she could count on the gods for a little help, right? She does have Thorin, son of Thor, but his skills as a human are, well, on the slightly lacking side of okay. But we can hope he is evolving, right? As a matter of fact ALL of the characters are evolving into solid individuals and Ms.Laurel has done a marvelous job of bring this world back to life and really sharpening each scene to Hi-Def.
Chaos abounds, as evil and good ramp up for more battle. Even within her personal life, Solina has a skirmishes of the heart, as powerful and potently attractive males vie for her attentions. Can she even allow time for romantic thoughts? Who is really on her side without an agenda of their own? Strong female characters fill the pages and Ms. Laurel has done an excellent job balancing their femininity with their boldness, whether they are good or evil.
Leap into the fray, feel the heat of battle, the passion of warriors, have that scorecard handy. Right now the fronts are varied, the subplots are deepening and now is the time to start putting the puzzle together, but don’t expect to finish just yet, the gods and goddesses all have their own agendas, their own demands as myths, legends and mortals work their way to the final showdown that has not come yet. Prepare for the next ride, more action and watch your step on that final page of book 2…This is intriguing writing filled with enough action to satisfy every reader!
I received an ARC edition from Karissa Laurel in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Norse Chronicles - Book 2
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing, LLC (July 5, 2016)
Publication Date: July 5, 2016
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
Print Length: 332 pages
Available from: Barnes & Noble | Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Hang on, because Karissa Laurel is taking us back into her Norse Chronicles series with Arctic Dawn! Rest up, this is non-stop action from the get go and Solina is the girl on a mission to kick butt and take names later, never flinching, never missing a beat and oh yes, she is pretty smart about it, too! Seriously, you think she could count on the gods for a little help, right? She does have Thorin, son of Thor, but his skills as a human are, well, on the slightly lacking side of okay. But we can hope he is evolving, right? As a matter of fact ALL of the characters are evolving into solid individuals and Ms.Laurel has done a marvelous job of bring this world back to life and really sharpening each scene to Hi-Def.
Chaos abounds, as evil and good ramp up for more battle. Even within her personal life, Solina has a skirmishes of the heart, as powerful and potently attractive males vie for her attentions. Can she even allow time for romantic thoughts? Who is really on her side without an agenda of their own? Strong female characters fill the pages and Ms. Laurel has done an excellent job balancing their femininity with their boldness, whether they are good or evil.
Leap into the fray, feel the heat of battle, the passion of warriors, have that scorecard handy. Right now the fronts are varied, the subplots are deepening and now is the time to start putting the puzzle together, but don’t expect to finish just yet, the gods and goddesses all have their own agendas, their own demands as myths, legends and mortals work their way to the final showdown that has not come yet. Prepare for the next ride, more action and watch your step on that final page of book 2…This is intriguing writing filled with enough action to satisfy every reader!
I received an ARC edition from Karissa Laurel in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Norse Chronicles - Book 2
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing, LLC (July 5, 2016)
Publication Date: July 5, 2016
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
Print Length: 332 pages
Available from: Barnes & Noble | Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 7, 2016
http://snoopydoosbookreviews.com/arct...
Finally the second book in The Norse Chronicles is out and I could not wait to get my hands on it.
I loved the first book in the series that left us with a huge cliffhanger, But I think I like the second book even better. Ms. Laurel done it again, written a book with the prefect mix of action, suspense, humor and a touch of romance. I love her twist in Norse mythology and how well all of her Character fit in it and just make it their own.
I just love her story, her characters and how nicely it all came together. I also love, that while we have Solina as a main character and her story, other side characters and their story or as things unfold are just as important as Solina’s.
I love Solina she is super smart and thinks stuff through and not just when it comes to battles. No, also her (kind of non-existing) love life. She not just falls head over heels for the guy and forgets herself or the bigger picture in life. But at the same time that can also be a little frustrating, because there is obviously some pretty chemistry between them.
There is a hint of a triangle but then again not really. That part is a little hard to explain without spoiling it, so I will just leave it at that.
There are some pretty good twist in this book and some new things come to light about Solina and the people surrounding here and of course not all are good.
The end had kind of had a sixth sense effect for me. Once I saw it and thought about it all made sense and there were little subtle hints throughout the book leading up to this shocking conclusion.
Of course we are left again we a cliffhanger and have to wait what seems to be an eternity for the next book in the series and if I could I would already pre-order the next book.
Overall, another wicked awesome book in the series that I had a hard time putting down.
I rate it 4 ½ ★
Finally the second book in The Norse Chronicles is out and I could not wait to get my hands on it.
I loved the first book in the series that left us with a huge cliffhanger, But I think I like the second book even better. Ms. Laurel done it again, written a book with the prefect mix of action, suspense, humor and a touch of romance. I love her twist in Norse mythology and how well all of her Character fit in it and just make it their own.
I just love her story, her characters and how nicely it all came together. I also love, that while we have Solina as a main character and her story, other side characters and their story or as things unfold are just as important as Solina’s.
I love Solina she is super smart and thinks stuff through and not just when it comes to battles. No, also her (kind of non-existing) love life. She not just falls head over heels for the guy and forgets herself or the bigger picture in life. But at the same time that can also be a little frustrating, because there is obviously some pretty chemistry between them.
There is a hint of a triangle but then again not really. That part is a little hard to explain without spoiling it, so I will just leave it at that.
There are some pretty good twist in this book and some new things come to light about Solina and the people surrounding here and of course not all are good.
The end had kind of had a sixth sense effect for me. Once I saw it and thought about it all made sense and there were little subtle hints throughout the book leading up to this shocking conclusion.
Of course we are left again we a cliffhanger and have to wait what seems to be an eternity for the next book in the series and if I could I would already pre-order the next book.
Overall, another wicked awesome book in the series that I had a hard time putting down.
I rate it 4 ½ ★
October 17, 2016
Title: Arctic Dawn
Author: Karissa Laurel
Genre: NA Urban Fantasy
Format: Ebook
Pages: 276
Rating: 4
Heat: 0
Thoughts: Wow, talk about some major twists and turns. I was not expecting the betrayal of a certain someone, that totally shocked me. And now I can't wait to get my hands on the next book. The relationship between Solina and Thorin is frustrating, just get together already lol. And all the revelations about Skyla... very interesting and I look forward to what that means going forward. There's so much corruption and betrayal that it's hard to know who to trust.
Favorite quote:
"My body had gone zombie, and coffee was the braaains it craved." - Solina
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and voluntarily chose to write a review.
Author: Karissa Laurel
Genre: NA Urban Fantasy
Format: Ebook
Pages: 276
Rating: 4
Heat: 0
Thoughts: Wow, talk about some major twists and turns. I was not expecting the betrayal of a certain someone, that totally shocked me. And now I can't wait to get my hands on the next book. The relationship between Solina and Thorin is frustrating, just get together already lol. And all the revelations about Skyla... very interesting and I look forward to what that means going forward. There's so much corruption and betrayal that it's hard to know who to trust.
Favorite quote:
"My body had gone zombie, and coffee was the braaains it craved." - Solina
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work and voluntarily chose to write a review.
September 7, 2016
Amazing. Absolutely amazing. Norse deities battling in modern day North America, ancient myths coming to life, the end of everything is at hand, and in the midst of all of this awesomeness you find the best part of this story: Solina.
Many authors try creating a realistic and believable character. This author succeeds. Solina leaps off the page, defies gods and mortals alike and steals the heart of the readers.
On top of that you have an incredible page turner of a story that leaves you anxiously awaiting the next book! Y'all should do yourselves a favor and read this book. I promise you'll enjoy it!
Many authors try creating a realistic and believable character. This author succeeds. Solina leaps off the page, defies gods and mortals alike and steals the heart of the readers.
On top of that you have an incredible page turner of a story that leaves you anxiously awaiting the next book! Y'all should do yourselves a favor and read this book. I promise you'll enjoy it!
February 6, 2020
Solina wakes up after what happened to her in the first book with no memory of what happened to her for the past month. She figures everyone thinks she's dead so better to just keep it that way and assumes a fake name, gets a job and keeps to herself. But when danger from her past finds her, she knows she has no other choice but to call Thorin and get his help. He's happy to hear from her but Skyla is still missing. Solina has been trying to find her with no leads at all.
Val has been out searching for Solina which under normal circumstances would be sweet but Val is overbearing and pushy and I just don't like him much. But Thorin likes Solina, it's obvious but he doesn't act on it.
Once they rescue Skyla, they're off again trying to stop Helen from succeeding in her plans. Plus Helen still wants Solina dead, so Thorin and Val have to make sure she's safe even though she puts herself in harms way for them several times. They want to tell her what to do but she'll still just do what she wants in the end.
I really liked the Norse Mythology in this book. Thorin and Val are both Gods and have special powers and even though Solina is the reincarnation of a God, she doesn't have her powers completely figured out and gets tired when she spends too much energy.
The twists, betrayal, backstabbing and secrets made this so much fun to read. I never knew for sure where this story was going or where it would end up and I love that. The ending was spectacular. There was a huge twist that I couldn't have seen coming and I was just wowed. While I liked the first book ok, this second book really got my attention and kept me hooked. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Val has been out searching for Solina which under normal circumstances would be sweet but Val is overbearing and pushy and I just don't like him much. But Thorin likes Solina, it's obvious but he doesn't act on it.
Once they rescue Skyla, they're off again trying to stop Helen from succeeding in her plans. Plus Helen still wants Solina dead, so Thorin and Val have to make sure she's safe even though she puts herself in harms way for them several times. They want to tell her what to do but she'll still just do what she wants in the end.
I really liked the Norse Mythology in this book. Thorin and Val are both Gods and have special powers and even though Solina is the reincarnation of a God, she doesn't have her powers completely figured out and gets tired when she spends too much energy.
The twists, betrayal, backstabbing and secrets made this so much fun to read. I never knew for sure where this story was going or where it would end up and I love that. The ending was spectacular. There was a huge twist that I couldn't have seen coming and I was just wowed. While I liked the first book ok, this second book really got my attention and kept me hooked. I'm looking forward to the next book.
June 18, 2016
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the series! See my review of MIDNIGHT BURNING!
I definitely enjoyed reading this one but it also gave me a bit of a headache. There was so much happening that I couldn't keep track of everyone or everything. I think there is a good concept here and I enjoy the look at Norse mythology but I sometimes think there is too much of it and explanations of it that really hinder the story from growing in a way that is natural and feels right to me.
I think the characters are all really well developed. I liked that Solina really found her stride here and started to make decisions that everyone else (semi) agreed with and they listened to what she had to say. Solina was also doing more proactively to try and save herself. She also was angry at the right times and sympathetic at others. I had a really good grasp on what made her tick and what she would do for others.
I feel like the secondary characters developed a lot more as well in this one and we really got to see everyone's true colours. I am a huge fan of Thorin and it was nice to see the subtle shift of his feelings for Solina. Especially with the amnesia at the end. I thought Skyla's development was meh and kinda quick. It was also obvious that . In that sense, .
I thought there was a lot of convenience in terms of characters though and they were always spread out in pairs so that they wouldn't be too powerful imo. It was as though every time they were heading into battle, something else came up and they had to be separated as a group. This made the fights "more fair" or whatever but started to irk me after the second time it happened (which, I think it was a total of four times).
Also there was SO MUCH HAPPENING. It was really hard to keep track of what should be important and what should be overlooked because both those things got equal screen time. Should I be that concerned about Nina? What about the wolves? The Valkrieye? What is most important for me to focus on? Shouldn't it actually be Helen?? You know, the evil woman who wants to START THE APOCALYPSE AGAIN?? I just felt like there was too much drawing my attention away from what was important and not enough focus on the main plot of the story.
I really liked the exposition of Norse Mythology (and the fact that I got to picture Chris Hemsworth while reading this because DAYMN BOY) but I did think there was too much happening in this one with not enough time to really focus on what was truly important. I would recommend checking out this series if you are looking for something different, but maybe have a notebook handy to keep track of the different plot lines and where everyone is.
Books and Ladders | Queen of the Bookshelves | Books Are My Fandom | Twitter | Instagram | Bloglovin'
This is the second book in the series! See my review of MIDNIGHT BURNING!
I definitely enjoyed reading this one but it also gave me a bit of a headache. There was so much happening that I couldn't keep track of everyone or everything. I think there is a good concept here and I enjoy the look at Norse mythology but I sometimes think there is too much of it and explanations of it that really hinder the story from growing in a way that is natural and feels right to me.
I think the characters are all really well developed. I liked that Solina really found her stride here and started to make decisions that everyone else (semi) agreed with and they listened to what she had to say. Solina was also doing more proactively to try and save herself. She also was angry at the right times and sympathetic at others. I had a really good grasp on what made her tick and what she would do for others.
I feel like the secondary characters developed a lot more as well in this one and we really got to see everyone's true colours. I am a huge fan of Thorin and it was nice to see the subtle shift of his feelings for Solina. Especially with the amnesia at the end. I thought Skyla's development was meh and kinda quick. It was also obvious that . In that sense, .
I thought there was a lot of convenience in terms of characters though and they were always spread out in pairs so that they wouldn't be too powerful imo. It was as though every time they were heading into battle, something else came up and they had to be separated as a group. This made the fights "more fair" or whatever but started to irk me after the second time it happened (which, I think it was a total of four times).
Also there was SO MUCH HAPPENING. It was really hard to keep track of what should be important and what should be overlooked because both those things got equal screen time. Should I be that concerned about Nina? What about the wolves? The Valkrieye? What is most important for me to focus on? Shouldn't it actually be Helen?? You know, the evil woman who wants to START THE APOCALYPSE AGAIN?? I just felt like there was too much drawing my attention away from what was important and not enough focus on the main plot of the story.
I really liked the exposition of Norse Mythology (and the fact that I got to picture Chris Hemsworth while reading this because DAYMN BOY) but I did think there was too much happening in this one with not enough time to really focus on what was truly important. I would recommend checking out this series if you are looking for something different, but maybe have a notebook handy to keep track of the different plot lines and where everyone is.
Books and Ladders | Queen of the Bookshelves | Books Are My Fandom | Twitter | Instagram | Bloglovin'
July 7, 2016
ARCTIC DAWN BY: KARISSA LAUREL
Wow! I don't know exactly what I was expecting when I started this book, but the right off the bat, the new, fiercer Solina Mundy set the tone for this pulse pounding thrill ride. Where Midnight Burning was a slow burn that grew in intensity as the story progressed, Arctic Dawn was a flash freeze that stole your breath from start to finish.
While I loved the faster paced, action-packed tone to this book, I do think there could have been a smidge more time between the missions Solina was constantly juggling to process everything. It seemed like the team was constantly being pulled in different directions and they often deviated from the original goal, and as interesting as they were, jumping to and fro between breaths I feel like I didn't always get the chance to fully appreciate the latest development. I found myself handling that situation much like I handle any given horror flick, yelling adamantly at the characters to not do something dumb like split up because you know it's not going to end well for them.
But boring this tale was not! I can dig all the action, but I do feel as if a second read through might give me more time to fully feel everything, since I now know the outcome and don't have that burning need to devour every word as quick as I can to see what happens next.
I LOVE the character development in Arctic Dawn! Solina was so impassioned, and powerful, and determined, and I LOVED the hell out of that. She's always had the brains, and seeing her step up and do whatever she could to be stand strong in the face of everything was glorious! And she wasn't the only one bringning that wow factor here. I really enjoyed seeing some different facets of Thorin too. There was this tenderness awakening where Solina was concerned and it melted me into a gooey puddle of creeper. Like seriously, do you know how many times I just wanted to be like...KISS NOW!! JUST DO IT!!!
I also have to mention how enamored I was by the heavy norse mythology in this addition. It took awhile for that aspect to show up in Midnight Burning but it was seeping through each and every page in Artic Dawn and I lapped that stuff up like a rabid animal.
All in all this was a fantastic addition to the series and I am desperate to see what happens with this rag tag group of favorites next! Especially after that gut-wrenching ending! My feels are all over the place and all I know for certain is I need more! And smooching, please bring the smooching in the next book.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! I don't know exactly what I was expecting when I started this book, but the right off the bat, the new, fiercer Solina Mundy set the tone for this pulse pounding thrill ride. Where Midnight Burning was a slow burn that grew in intensity as the story progressed, Arctic Dawn was a flash freeze that stole your breath from start to finish.
While I loved the faster paced, action-packed tone to this book, I do think there could have been a smidge more time between the missions Solina was constantly juggling to process everything. It seemed like the team was constantly being pulled in different directions and they often deviated from the original goal, and as interesting as they were, jumping to and fro between breaths I feel like I didn't always get the chance to fully appreciate the latest development. I found myself handling that situation much like I handle any given horror flick, yelling adamantly at the characters to not do something dumb like split up because you know it's not going to end well for them.
But boring this tale was not! I can dig all the action, but I do feel as if a second read through might give me more time to fully feel everything, since I now know the outcome and don't have that burning need to devour every word as quick as I can to see what happens next.
I LOVE the character development in Arctic Dawn! Solina was so impassioned, and powerful, and determined, and I LOVED the hell out of that. She's always had the brains, and seeing her step up and do whatever she could to be stand strong in the face of everything was glorious! And she wasn't the only one bringning that wow factor here. I really enjoyed seeing some different facets of Thorin too. There was this tenderness awakening where Solina was concerned and it melted me into a gooey puddle of creeper. Like seriously, do you know how many times I just wanted to be like...KISS NOW!! JUST DO IT!!!
I also have to mention how enamored I was by the heavy norse mythology in this addition. It took awhile for that aspect to show up in Midnight Burning but it was seeping through each and every page in Artic Dawn and I lapped that stuff up like a rabid animal.
All in all this was a fantastic addition to the series and I am desperate to see what happens with this rag tag group of favorites next! Especially after that gut-wrenching ending! My feels are all over the place and all I know for certain is I need more! And smooching, please bring the smooching in the next book.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 8, 2019
Book two picks up with Solina recovering from becoming a shooting star and remaining on her own and trying to stay hidden in a town she believes, is linked to her missing friend, Skyla. Solina works with Nikka, a bar owner, and Joe, the part time security officer for Nikka's bar. Everything seems to be going well until a stranger appears and seems singularly interested in her. She calls on the only person she thinks can help her.
The search for Skyla drives Solina to do things that she never imagined herself doing. Her internal strength grows as her powers grow, and the need to be rescued diminishes. Relationships with the people Solina got to know as a result of Mani's death, morph as everyone finds themselves faced with a variety of dangerous situations.
A budding romance becomes stronger through the perilous scenarios, and Solina isn't the only one challenged to change what they have believed in, or known. Whether relationships survive is dependent on trust - something not given freely - and which Solina finds difficult with some.
In the end, a heart-wrenching betrayal will threaten everything and bring the world into sharper focus for Solina. Once more, her world flips, and she must acclimate.
I loved this book more than the first one, and I feel like the first book was more of a setup to this one; which is unusual in the world of sequels. The threading of modernisms with old Norse mythology is superb. Once again, Karissa weaves both into a story which is worthy of becoming my favorite. Her descriptions, word use, and ability to draw a reader in are inspirational to me as a budding author. She makes me want to be a better writer. If for some reason you do not jive with the story being told, at least recognize her brilliant writing talent. It's rare these days that I find an author who makes me look up words, but I had to do that a couple of times with Karissa. I love that.
Things you might enjoy: Loads of snark [top notch snark, in fact]; a female character who is strong, but has weaknesses and is relatable; betrayal; and a, subtle but complicated, romantic relationship still blossoming from the first book. There is also the cast of characters who all have their own strengths and weaknesses and who add so much to this world to make it feel like a far off reality into which you can escape.
I'm so looking forward to the third book, that I will be re-reading these shortly. There is no reason for me to do so, except that the awesomeness of these two + the novella about Mani [Moonlight Falling], demand it. I look forward to seeing things I may not have seen before and the pure enjoyment of a reread. I'm totally fan girl-ing over this series, and it's a nice feeling. Aside from Mark Lawrence, Dan Simmons, F. Paul Wilson, and the amazing Kim Harrison, who are my absolute favorites, it's rare for me to get so excited about an author.
All my fan-girling aside, I recommend taking everything with a grain of salt lest it ruin your own experience. Nothing sucks the life of a thing more than too much hype. That said, READ THIS, if you love mythology and urban fantasy, this is the series for you. ;)
The search for Skyla drives Solina to do things that she never imagined herself doing. Her internal strength grows as her powers grow, and the need to be rescued diminishes. Relationships with the people Solina got to know as a result of Mani's death, morph as everyone finds themselves faced with a variety of dangerous situations.
A budding romance becomes stronger through the perilous scenarios, and Solina isn't the only one challenged to change what they have believed in, or known. Whether relationships survive is dependent on trust - something not given freely - and which Solina finds difficult with some.
In the end, a heart-wrenching betrayal will threaten everything and bring the world into sharper focus for Solina. Once more, her world flips, and she must acclimate.
I loved this book more than the first one, and I feel like the first book was more of a setup to this one; which is unusual in the world of sequels. The threading of modernisms with old Norse mythology is superb. Once again, Karissa weaves both into a story which is worthy of becoming my favorite. Her descriptions, word use, and ability to draw a reader in are inspirational to me as a budding author. She makes me want to be a better writer. If for some reason you do not jive with the story being told, at least recognize her brilliant writing talent. It's rare these days that I find an author who makes me look up words, but I had to do that a couple of times with Karissa. I love that.
Things you might enjoy: Loads of snark [top notch snark, in fact]; a female character who is strong, but has weaknesses and is relatable; betrayal; and a, subtle but complicated, romantic relationship still blossoming from the first book. There is also the cast of characters who all have their own strengths and weaknesses and who add so much to this world to make it feel like a far off reality into which you can escape.
I'm so looking forward to the third book, that I will be re-reading these shortly. There is no reason for me to do so, except that the awesomeness of these two + the novella about Mani [Moonlight Falling], demand it. I look forward to seeing things I may not have seen before and the pure enjoyment of a reread. I'm totally fan girl-ing over this series, and it's a nice feeling. Aside from Mark Lawrence, Dan Simmons, F. Paul Wilson, and the amazing Kim Harrison, who are my absolute favorites, it's rare for me to get so excited about an author.
All my fan-girling aside, I recommend taking everything with a grain of salt lest it ruin your own experience. Nothing sucks the life of a thing more than too much hype. That said, READ THIS, if you love mythology and urban fantasy, this is the series for you. ;)
August 17, 2016
Arctic Dawn, The Norse Chronicles: Book 2, Karissa Laurel
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance,Sci-fi and fantasy
For those who don’t like those fantasy reads that are all romance all the way – this isn’t. Its now book two and only by the end do we actually get a hint of romance that’s maybe developing...maybe ;-) So don’t let the romance genre put you off. I like both sorts but know others don’t.
So, Solina finished the last book with a bang – literally – and has spent the last month as a shooting star. What??! Yep, read book one first, this isn’t one you can start with, you have to read all the story.
Its a fabulous take on Norse mythology and its fun to work out who is or isn’t some kind of God, or at least has special powers. You need to be really “in” to the story and to have read the first book, otherwise nothing will make sense, and that’s a shame as its a fabulous, real Fantasy read.
I love the way the Norse legends have been woven in, and the way Karissa manages to give an overview of the relevant ones for readers who might not know or remember the stories.
I loved the way Solina and the Apple Orchard stuff was woven into her dreams and slipped into reality. I’m a sucker for that sort of crossover, though I do wonder – I know they’re in a very uninhabited place in the world but surely news reports, monitors, all the eyes on the world, cyber spying stuff must have picked up some of their battles. Its not like its a small event when Gods battle after all. Huge fires, cracks that are massive craters in the earth, the noise and firework effects – they must attract some kind of attention.
What I didn’t like was that it seemed a bit like running, always running, from someone to somewhere but not actually getting anywhere.
Baldur, the Allfather frankly seemed a bit of a lovelorn wimp, but maybe his time with Helen had affected him and I’m just unsympathetic. I didn’t really see why they were trailing with him after Nina, well Thorin anyway, given the magnitude of what they faced, even though there is an explanation. I guess it just didn’t sit right with me.
Then again – Immortals – they’ve a different take to time and importance, but this danger affects them too.
I’d guessed someone who wasn’t what they seemed from book one, it was nice to be proved right, * huffs proudly * so often I’m, waaay off track.
I have the feeling Nina is going to be more important in the next book, there must be some point to all that time rescuing her in this one.
I want to read how the Valkyries rally, and I’m glad to see them stand up for themselves, might have been fine in history toadying and waiting around for the males to need them, its different times now and Feminism has found them!
Once more is a gripping story, so very different to most fantasy reads about today and so very refreshing to read something so totally unique. Roll on book three :-)
Stars: five, a fantasy read in the real sense!
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publisher
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance,Sci-fi and fantasy
For those who don’t like those fantasy reads that are all romance all the way – this isn’t. Its now book two and only by the end do we actually get a hint of romance that’s maybe developing...maybe ;-) So don’t let the romance genre put you off. I like both sorts but know others don’t.
So, Solina finished the last book with a bang – literally – and has spent the last month as a shooting star. What??! Yep, read book one first, this isn’t one you can start with, you have to read all the story.
Its a fabulous take on Norse mythology and its fun to work out who is or isn’t some kind of God, or at least has special powers. You need to be really “in” to the story and to have read the first book, otherwise nothing will make sense, and that’s a shame as its a fabulous, real Fantasy read.
I love the way the Norse legends have been woven in, and the way Karissa manages to give an overview of the relevant ones for readers who might not know or remember the stories.
I loved the way Solina and the Apple Orchard stuff was woven into her dreams and slipped into reality. I’m a sucker for that sort of crossover, though I do wonder – I know they’re in a very uninhabited place in the world but surely news reports, monitors, all the eyes on the world, cyber spying stuff must have picked up some of their battles. Its not like its a small event when Gods battle after all. Huge fires, cracks that are massive craters in the earth, the noise and firework effects – they must attract some kind of attention.
What I didn’t like was that it seemed a bit like running, always running, from someone to somewhere but not actually getting anywhere.
Baldur, the Allfather frankly seemed a bit of a lovelorn wimp, but maybe his time with Helen had affected him and I’m just unsympathetic. I didn’t really see why they were trailing with him after Nina, well Thorin anyway, given the magnitude of what they faced, even though there is an explanation. I guess it just didn’t sit right with me.
Then again – Immortals – they’ve a different take to time and importance, but this danger affects them too.
I’d guessed someone who wasn’t what they seemed from book one, it was nice to be proved right, * huffs proudly * so often I’m, waaay off track.
I have the feeling Nina is going to be more important in the next book, there must be some point to all that time rescuing her in this one.
I want to read how the Valkyries rally, and I’m glad to see them stand up for themselves, might have been fine in history toadying and waiting around for the males to need them, its different times now and Feminism has found them!
Once more is a gripping story, so very different to most fantasy reads about today and so very refreshing to read something so totally unique. Roll on book three :-)
Stars: five, a fantasy read in the real sense!
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publisher
August 24, 2016
I was so excited to receive a copy of Arctic Dawn! I loved the first book of the series about Solina and couldn't wait to start reading the second book! I am so glad I did get a copy because the second book is just as great as the first book in the series!!
The second book starts off with Solina being sort of lost and not knowing what really happened to her at the cabin. She know needs to put her life back together while regaining her strength. Solina doesn't know if she wants to jump right back into her old life since she isn't 100% sure exactly who she can trust. Trust does become a big issue thought out the whole book.
I loved the relationship that we get to see develop between Solina and Thorin. In the first book they had a very odd relationship I couldn't tell where it was actually going to go. I am still unsure of where the relationship will end up, but I felt like we got a lot more insight into the Solina and Thorin. Solina is having a hard time letting her feelings come to the surface for Thorin because she is afraid to get hurt. I feel like in this book they both have up such high walls and they are slowly starting to come down. We got to see how upset Solina is over Thorin's constant need to be by Baldur and help him. Solina does seem to have strong feelings for Thorin, but also wants his undivided attention to fix the crazy predicament she is in.
I feel like I kind of want an entire book about Skyla. I have a zillion questions about Skyla because I feel like her character can go in so many directions going forward. I love the loyalty that Skyla shows even after finding out some shady stuff from the Aeria. Skyla has a lot of potential to do great things she seems like a very strong character and a great friend to Solina.
The author did a great job with all the descriptions of the what was going on in the book. I felt like I could imagine the scenes she was describing and felt like I was part of the orchard at one point. All of the scenes and characters really came to life in Karissa's writing.
I really enjoyed all the twists and turns while reading this book. So much more action happened in this book then the first one. I did sort of lose track of what we were looking for because there would be another twist when I thought I figured out what was going on. The book was a fast read for me due to the pace being full of action and wanting to figure out exactly what was going on. Also, the ending of this book I did NOT see coming at all. I can't wait to see where the author goes with the next book in the series.
I would suggest this as a weekend read. I got completely sucked into the story line again and couldn't put the book down! I had to know what was going to happen next and what was really going on!
I was received this book from Karissa Laurel for the purpose of providing an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The second book starts off with Solina being sort of lost and not knowing what really happened to her at the cabin. She know needs to put her life back together while regaining her strength. Solina doesn't know if she wants to jump right back into her old life since she isn't 100% sure exactly who she can trust. Trust does become a big issue thought out the whole book.
I loved the relationship that we get to see develop between Solina and Thorin. In the first book they had a very odd relationship I couldn't tell where it was actually going to go. I am still unsure of where the relationship will end up, but I felt like we got a lot more insight into the Solina and Thorin. Solina is having a hard time letting her feelings come to the surface for Thorin because she is afraid to get hurt. I feel like in this book they both have up such high walls and they are slowly starting to come down. We got to see how upset Solina is over Thorin's constant need to be by Baldur and help him. Solina does seem to have strong feelings for Thorin, but also wants his undivided attention to fix the crazy predicament she is in.
I feel like I kind of want an entire book about Skyla. I have a zillion questions about Skyla because I feel like her character can go in so many directions going forward. I love the loyalty that Skyla shows even after finding out some shady stuff from the Aeria. Skyla has a lot of potential to do great things she seems like a very strong character and a great friend to Solina.
The author did a great job with all the descriptions of the what was going on in the book. I felt like I could imagine the scenes she was describing and felt like I was part of the orchard at one point. All of the scenes and characters really came to life in Karissa's writing.
I really enjoyed all the twists and turns while reading this book. So much more action happened in this book then the first one. I did sort of lose track of what we were looking for because there would be another twist when I thought I figured out what was going on. The book was a fast read for me due to the pace being full of action and wanting to figure out exactly what was going on. Also, the ending of this book I did NOT see coming at all. I can't wait to see where the author goes with the next book in the series.
I would suggest this as a weekend read. I got completely sucked into the story line again and couldn't put the book down! I had to know what was going to happen next and what was really going on!
I was received this book from Karissa Laurel for the purpose of providing an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 7, 2016
First of all Arctic Dawn has got to have some of the most plot twists I have ever read.
This review was a long time coming given how much I loved the first book in this series. Oh how I’ve missed Thorin’s manly, gruff exterior and secret mushy side. At the beginning of this book we pick up almost directly where the last book left off. We see what Solina has been up to, where she is, how she is training and coping with the severe changes in her life. I will give you a big heads up in saying reread the first book before diving into this one. As much as I hate books that revisit every little thing that happened in the last book this one gives us nothing. I remembered the key players but some of the lesser seen characters had me scratching my head. It wasn’t until about halfway through I remembered everyone. (If you read a lot of books between these two please, do yourself the favor and at least skim the first book. You’ll thank me later.)
The slow burning romance of Solina and Thorin returns! *insert evil laugh* Of course there are serious plot points like what happens with the other wolf, is Helena still as evil as ever, and who is that super creepy guy following Solina?
After going Supernova we find Solina in California trying to search for clues as to the whereabouts of Skyla. Everything seems to be going her way until a total creepster supernatural with a penchant for flashy birds shows up and attacks Solina’s friend. From there its a desperate call for help to Thorin and the whole gang is back together. Well, everyone but Skyla who we eventually find hiding out at the Airy.
But the Airy’s been compromised.
Or has it?
We finally get a glimpse of the infamous Thorin’s power and let me tell you it does not disappoint. This book is fast paced and action packed. My heart goes out to Solina for taking her punches in stride and no longer backing down from a fight.
Now I hate spoiling things and SO MUCH goes on in this book that seriously, I feel like everything is a spoiler because holy amazeballs those plot twists. Also, Golems? How awesome is that! All I’m willing to tell you is this book is just as good at the first in terms of action and yummy pent up lustful looks between Thorin and Solina. I will however give you a little something to keep you intrigued, you get to meet Thorin’s hardcore brother and things get cray cray.
This review was a long time coming given how much I loved the first book in this series. Oh how I’ve missed Thorin’s manly, gruff exterior and secret mushy side. At the beginning of this book we pick up almost directly where the last book left off. We see what Solina has been up to, where she is, how she is training and coping with the severe changes in her life. I will give you a big heads up in saying reread the first book before diving into this one. As much as I hate books that revisit every little thing that happened in the last book this one gives us nothing. I remembered the key players but some of the lesser seen characters had me scratching my head. It wasn’t until about halfway through I remembered everyone. (If you read a lot of books between these two please, do yourself the favor and at least skim the first book. You’ll thank me later.)
The slow burning romance of Solina and Thorin returns! *insert evil laugh* Of course there are serious plot points like what happens with the other wolf, is Helena still as evil as ever, and who is that super creepy guy following Solina?
After going Supernova we find Solina in California trying to search for clues as to the whereabouts of Skyla. Everything seems to be going her way until a total creepster supernatural with a penchant for flashy birds shows up and attacks Solina’s friend. From there its a desperate call for help to Thorin and the whole gang is back together. Well, everyone but Skyla who we eventually find hiding out at the Airy.
But the Airy’s been compromised.
Or has it?
We finally get a glimpse of the infamous Thorin’s power and let me tell you it does not disappoint. This book is fast paced and action packed. My heart goes out to Solina for taking her punches in stride and no longer backing down from a fight.
Now I hate spoiling things and SO MUCH goes on in this book that seriously, I feel like everything is a spoiler because holy amazeballs those plot twists. Also, Golems? How awesome is that! All I’m willing to tell you is this book is just as good at the first in terms of action and yummy pent up lustful looks between Thorin and Solina. I will however give you a little something to keep you intrigued, you get to meet Thorin’s hardcore brother and things get cray cray.
August 20, 2016
Arctic Dawn by Karissa Laurel
Ms. Laurel has stepped up her game in Arctic Dawn. The characters are more intense, the action is nonstop and the entire book is more heavily steeped in Norse Mythology. Solina’s powers have matured and she is fully focused on her mission at all times, even if she is not totally aware of what is going on around her. I love the way she challenges Thorin at every turn. And even though this vexes Thorin, you can tell he admires her spunk and tenacity as she is always honest with her feelings about the situations at hand. However, she continues to conceal her emotions and desires from Thorin. Her walls are cracking though, as are Thorin’s. I practically melted during a few touching scenes.
I was a bit worried I would be lost when I started reading this sequel considering it had been a full year since I had read Midnight Burning. But rest assured Ms. Laurel brings forward what you need to remember without bogging down the story. New people were introduced who fit well in the mix. I ended up reading late into the night until I couldn’t focus my eyes any longer, the book was that hard for me to put down.
Arctic Dawn is a fast-paced cataclysmic addition full of action that will keep you on the edge of your seat. There are several unexpected twists, which change the course of the plot. These give rise for more Norse mythology, which is incorporated into the plot. Ms. Laurel’s imagination and knowledge seems boundless. I would highly recommend Arctic Dawn to lovers of mythology, adventure seekers, and action lovers. For those who loath romance in their stories, I will add the romance is low-key and not what this series is centered around. The ending made me swoon, while I was cursing the cliffhanger. Well done, ma’am. Please don’t make me wait another year for more.
FYI: Arctic Dawn is book two in The Norse Chronicles following Midnight Burning. I would recommend reading this series in order. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** August 12, 2016
Format/Typo Issues: I found no significant issues.
Ms. Laurel has stepped up her game in Arctic Dawn. The characters are more intense, the action is nonstop and the entire book is more heavily steeped in Norse Mythology. Solina’s powers have matured and she is fully focused on her mission at all times, even if she is not totally aware of what is going on around her. I love the way she challenges Thorin at every turn. And even though this vexes Thorin, you can tell he admires her spunk and tenacity as she is always honest with her feelings about the situations at hand. However, she continues to conceal her emotions and desires from Thorin. Her walls are cracking though, as are Thorin’s. I practically melted during a few touching scenes.
I was a bit worried I would be lost when I started reading this sequel considering it had been a full year since I had read Midnight Burning. But rest assured Ms. Laurel brings forward what you need to remember without bogging down the story. New people were introduced who fit well in the mix. I ended up reading late into the night until I couldn’t focus my eyes any longer, the book was that hard for me to put down.
Arctic Dawn is a fast-paced cataclysmic addition full of action that will keep you on the edge of your seat. There are several unexpected twists, which change the course of the plot. These give rise for more Norse mythology, which is incorporated into the plot. Ms. Laurel’s imagination and knowledge seems boundless. I would highly recommend Arctic Dawn to lovers of mythology, adventure seekers, and action lovers. For those who loath romance in their stories, I will add the romance is low-key and not what this series is centered around. The ending made me swoon, while I was cursing the cliffhanger. Well done, ma’am. Please don’t make me wait another year for more.
FYI: Arctic Dawn is book two in The Norse Chronicles following Midnight Burning. I would recommend reading this series in order. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** August 12, 2016
Format/Typo Issues: I found no significant issues.
August 6, 2016
Arctic Dawn is book two in The Norse Chronicles. I read book one a year ago and loved the paranormal aspect and the characters so much I was anxious for book two. My only issue with Arctic Dawn is that there is no history given. Since it had been a while since I last read The Norse Chronicles it took my about 25% into the book to refresh my memory as to who the characters were and what their history was. I wish Karissa Laurel had given a little background information just to refresh the reader’s memory.
There was a lot of Norse mythology within Arctic Dawn, which I am not overly familiar with yet I was not missing anything by my lack of knowledge. I loved the characters and the story. Sol and Thorin’s relationship is intriguing, drama filled, and interesting. The way they circled each other, pushed their trust for each other, and explored their feelings for each other. I am still not sure exactly what these two are to each other but I am hoping that it is all made clear in the next book. There were other characters that I keep thinking about but Sol and Thorin are the big ones for me.
At times there was a lot going on in the book. Sometimes it was overwhelming and a tad confusing. Yet at no time did I want to stop reading. I pushed, pulled, and prodded through the story. I had to know what was going to happen. Would Helen, the bad guy, get Sol? Are they going to kill the wolf? So many questions and I still have so many to be answered.
The Norse Chronicles has to be read in order. I’d highly recommend reading books 1 and 2 as close together as possible. I am sure I will be referring back to book 2 when book 3 is released. I definitely recommend picking up your copies today.
There was a lot of Norse mythology within Arctic Dawn, which I am not overly familiar with yet I was not missing anything by my lack of knowledge. I loved the characters and the story. Sol and Thorin’s relationship is intriguing, drama filled, and interesting. The way they circled each other, pushed their trust for each other, and explored their feelings for each other. I am still not sure exactly what these two are to each other but I am hoping that it is all made clear in the next book. There were other characters that I keep thinking about but Sol and Thorin are the big ones for me.
At times there was a lot going on in the book. Sometimes it was overwhelming and a tad confusing. Yet at no time did I want to stop reading. I pushed, pulled, and prodded through the story. I had to know what was going to happen. Would Helen, the bad guy, get Sol? Are they going to kill the wolf? So many questions and I still have so many to be answered.
The Norse Chronicles has to be read in order. I’d highly recommend reading books 1 and 2 as close together as possible. I am sure I will be referring back to book 2 when book 3 is released. I definitely recommend picking up your copies today.
April 4, 2025
4.5
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
After spending some time as a shooting star, Solina Mundy is human again and trying to figure out what the hell just happened. Appearing in her home state she knows it’s a dangerous place to be, so she hits the road looking for answers and her friends while trying her best to stay off the grid and under her enemy’s radar. Eventually she is found and she needs the help of her former boss Thorin. Things go downhill from there and it’s a race to grab a legendary sword that can destroy anything and everything before the bad guys do.
An excellent modern day Ragnarök in the making, this story has action, intrigue, mystery, bad guys, and sexual heat galore. However, as much as I love the story, it seems to be suffering from book two-itis. There’s a lot going on, but it seems to be a bit scattered and Solina is trying too hard to be a badass. I don’t think she’s making very good decisions and that pisses me off a bit because I thought her to be smarter than that. The hows and whys of this whole scenario are also a little sketchy, but that could just be me. But that ending? What in the actual...holy shit! I really didn’t see that coming. I’m looking forward to seeing where they go from here.
4/4/2025 ~ Purchased audio at Chirp
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
After spending some time as a shooting star, Solina Mundy is human again and trying to figure out what the hell just happened. Appearing in her home state she knows it’s a dangerous place to be, so she hits the road looking for answers and her friends while trying her best to stay off the grid and under her enemy’s radar. Eventually she is found and she needs the help of her former boss Thorin. Things go downhill from there and it’s a race to grab a legendary sword that can destroy anything and everything before the bad guys do.
An excellent modern day Ragnarök in the making, this story has action, intrigue, mystery, bad guys, and sexual heat galore. However, as much as I love the story, it seems to be suffering from book two-itis. There’s a lot going on, but it seems to be a bit scattered and Solina is trying too hard to be a badass. I don’t think she’s making very good decisions and that pisses me off a bit because I thought her to be smarter than that. The hows and whys of this whole scenario are also a little sketchy, but that could just be me. But that ending? What in the actual...holy shit! I really didn’t see that coming. I’m looking forward to seeing where they go from here.
4/4/2025 ~ Purchased audio at Chirp
July 21, 2016
***I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest Review***
This book provided a very enjoyable experience for me. It was well written, engaging and there wasn't a dull moment throughout the story (which features god's, mystical creatures, a lot of imagination on the author's part ect...). If you looking for a book that makes you question things at every turn this is it, you won't easily guess what's around the corner either and not only that but it'll also keep you on the edge of your seat until you turn the last page.
The reason I gave it four stars and not five is that although it was all the things I said above, It could have done with a little more romance. Every time it looked as we were heading in that direction the story did a complete U-turn and went back to the action and fighting stance. Don't get me wrong I thoroughly dived into this book and found hard to put down but I'm truly looking forward to seeing Solina and Thorin involved romantically.
This book provided a very enjoyable experience for me. It was well written, engaging and there wasn't a dull moment throughout the story (which features god's, mystical creatures, a lot of imagination on the author's part ect...). If you looking for a book that makes you question things at every turn this is it, you won't easily guess what's around the corner either and not only that but it'll also keep you on the edge of your seat until you turn the last page.
The reason I gave it four stars and not five is that although it was all the things I said above, It could have done with a little more romance. Every time it looked as we were heading in that direction the story did a complete U-turn and went back to the action and fighting stance. Don't get me wrong I thoroughly dived into this book and found hard to put down but I'm truly looking forward to seeing Solina and Thorin involved romantically.
May 25, 2017
Arctic Dawn by Karissa Laurel is another great book. I was so glad to see the email from Ms. Laurel about reviewing this book as I wanted to know what Solina Mundy, Thorin, Val, Baldur, and Skyla were up to especially after the end of the first book. I also couldn’t wait to see what Helena had up her sleeves for Solina and the others.
The main character of this book is, of course, Solina Mundy. Solina is the one that we see the story through. It’s pretty amazing to see the way she sees the world especially now that she is thrust into learning the Norse legends are real. The book takes us to with where we find Solina is in hiding and trying to find her friend. Solina is still mostly the same girl from the first book but she is now wary of anyone that could turn her into Helena so that the second Ragnorak can start. What I like about Solina is that she is still the same but also being cautious and want to stay alive more so now than anything. I also like that she is aware of what she can do and she tries to make sure that everyone that knows about the Gods walking among them. She can take care of herself if needed and that she can be trusted to help in battle. What I dislike about Solina is that she sometimes does things without really thinking it all the way through. I know that is something that some people make quick decisions in real life but those decisions don’t have anything to do with getting captured by the person that wants to kill you to start another Ragnorak. What I also dislike about Solina is that she is letting something that happened in the past sway her away from Thorin.
The antagonist of the book is someone that no one would suspect. Well besides Helena. She had a pretty small role in this book. Helena is preparing for the war. What I like about Helena is that she is still has a lot of cards that haven’t been revealed to us yet and it’s pretty amazing that even after all these years that she hasn’t let anything slip. She is tight-lipped when speaking to the other gods, not allowing them to know about her plans for when she finds the new reincarnations of the Sun Goddess and the Moon God. What I dislike about Helena is that she is trying to recreate Ragnorak thinking it will be better if she is controlling it. Another thing that I dislike about Helena is that she is still trying to hurt Baldor and even more this time around. Especially when it comes to the reincarnations of his beloved soulmate.
Arctic Dawn by Karissa Laurel is an amazing book and a wonderful read. I will certainly recommend this book and the first book to anyone. This book actually has two plot twists in it. Or at least I would like to think of them as plot twists since I certainly didn’t see them coming. I am giving this book a five-star rating and I can’t wait to read the next book of this wonderful series.
Anyways until next time enjoy this book review brought to you by
Baroness’ Book Trove
To read more reviews like this please visit my blog: baronessbooktrove.com
The main character of this book is, of course, Solina Mundy. Solina is the one that we see the story through. It’s pretty amazing to see the way she sees the world especially now that she is thrust into learning the Norse legends are real. The book takes us to with where we find Solina is in hiding and trying to find her friend. Solina is still mostly the same girl from the first book but she is now wary of anyone that could turn her into Helena so that the second Ragnorak can start. What I like about Solina is that she is still the same but also being cautious and want to stay alive more so now than anything. I also like that she is aware of what she can do and she tries to make sure that everyone that knows about the Gods walking among them. She can take care of herself if needed and that she can be trusted to help in battle. What I dislike about Solina is that she sometimes does things without really thinking it all the way through. I know that is something that some people make quick decisions in real life but those decisions don’t have anything to do with getting captured by the person that wants to kill you to start another Ragnorak. What I also dislike about Solina is that she is letting something that happened in the past sway her away from Thorin.
The antagonist of the book is someone that no one would suspect. Well besides Helena. She had a pretty small role in this book. Helena is preparing for the war. What I like about Helena is that she is still has a lot of cards that haven’t been revealed to us yet and it’s pretty amazing that even after all these years that she hasn’t let anything slip. She is tight-lipped when speaking to the other gods, not allowing them to know about her plans for when she finds the new reincarnations of the Sun Goddess and the Moon God. What I dislike about Helena is that she is trying to recreate Ragnorak thinking it will be better if she is controlling it. Another thing that I dislike about Helena is that she is still trying to hurt Baldor and even more this time around. Especially when it comes to the reincarnations of his beloved soulmate.
Arctic Dawn by Karissa Laurel is an amazing book and a wonderful read. I will certainly recommend this book and the first book to anyone. This book actually has two plot twists in it. Or at least I would like to think of them as plot twists since I certainly didn’t see them coming. I am giving this book a five-star rating and I can’t wait to read the next book of this wonderful series.
Anyways until next time enjoy this book review brought to you by
Baroness’ Book Trove
To read more reviews like this please visit my blog: baronessbooktrove.com
December 5, 2018
I had my doubts with this book after reading Midnight burning. Not that anything was wrong with the first book. It had both intrigue and a really good story. It just didn’t catch my full interest the way I had wished. Case in point, I had my doubts about reading this book. Doubts that turned out to be unwarranted.
The major thing I missed in Midnight burning was the romance. I mean, it was there. It just wasn’t that big part of the story and was developing too slowly for my liking. I do understand however that the romance isn’t the main genre here so I tried to be a bit more open minded reading Arctic Dawn, which payed off. Big time. The plot was very compelling and unpredictable. It took directions I couldn’t even think of, which made it very eye catching. I especially enjoyed the major plot twist at the end. I did not see that coming. As a matter of fact, I thought another person in the group would be the one.
There was a higher emotional level and drama in the story as well. Making the characters appear more human and easy to connect to. Best of all however, was that the romance developed further than in book one. There was a much needed amount of time they spent time together (not only for strategizing and fighting, but getting closer) where the relationship could grow and form and the chemistry was electrifying. Even so, I’m still not completely satisfied. While there was more of a development, it still was a snooze fest on the romance. It did not progress far enough for my taste and I found myself getting annoyed at the characters for not taking it further. They had so many opportunities that it almost became too repetitive. To me it even was a bit confusing as to why they kept backing away every time. Neither seemed to have a good enough reason to. I could sum it up to trust issues but their dialogs disproved that reason pretty clearly.
While I get that romance is only a small part of the bigger picture (or book in this case) it’s just no good when the great progress up to it just stops and stamps. Still, I give the book 3,5 stars and I hope that the third and final book in this series while have the desired romance it is slowly building up to.
The major thing I missed in Midnight burning was the romance. I mean, it was there. It just wasn’t that big part of the story and was developing too slowly for my liking. I do understand however that the romance isn’t the main genre here so I tried to be a bit more open minded reading Arctic Dawn, which payed off. Big time. The plot was very compelling and unpredictable. It took directions I couldn’t even think of, which made it very eye catching. I especially enjoyed the major plot twist at the end. I did not see that coming. As a matter of fact, I thought another person in the group would be the one.
There was a higher emotional level and drama in the story as well. Making the characters appear more human and easy to connect to. Best of all however, was that the romance developed further than in book one. There was a much needed amount of time they spent time together (not only for strategizing and fighting, but getting closer) where the relationship could grow and form and the chemistry was electrifying. Even so, I’m still not completely satisfied. While there was more of a development, it still was a snooze fest on the romance. It did not progress far enough for my taste and I found myself getting annoyed at the characters for not taking it further. They had so many opportunities that it almost became too repetitive. To me it even was a bit confusing as to why they kept backing away every time. Neither seemed to have a good enough reason to. I could sum it up to trust issues but their dialogs disproved that reason pretty clearly.
While I get that romance is only a small part of the bigger picture (or book in this case) it’s just no good when the great progress up to it just stops and stamps. Still, I give the book 3,5 stars and I hope that the third and final book in this series while have the desired romance it is slowly building up to.
May 21, 2017
Nooooo !!! I don't leave spoilers, but Noooooo !! Please tell me the next book is written and published. This novel like the previous in the Norse Chronicles, had me captivated from the beginning, I really don't know what to do, I expected for it to happen, but didn't (if you no what I mean), I didn't expect that to happen, I had some suspicion, but not to that degree, which was another brilliant twist by the way Karrisa. Most of you won't have a clue what I'm going on about (sorry) this book is like an academy winning film, you could keep watching it and realise little bits here and there you missed on first viewing. The plot was described so well, I could almost feel the atmospheres. The story holds such a realism, that when you come up for air, you then realise it's actually not. The main characters are really strong, and I hang on there every word. This book has, action, loyalty, betrayal, tension, love, deceit, nearly every emotion in different forms and its complete opposite, which is why it keeps you on your toes, from beginning to end. The fact mythology is entwined with the story is so right it's tangible. I cannot recommend this book strongly enough, I couldn't put it down, I took it everywhere with me, and if I only got 2mins spare, I had to read a few lines. We all take things different from books, but for me this is worth every single 5 star rating, and then some.
July 23, 2016
FTC Notice: This book was provided free in exchange for an honest review. This is no way impacts my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Seeing old friends after a time away is always a pleasure. They’ve changed, you’ve changed, but somehow your relationship hasn’t – at least not in the way that matters as you sit down with a drink to catch up. It’s been a full year since I read Midnight Burning – twelve full months since I last read of Solina Mundy and her Norse god friends. We were due to sit down and catch up.
Solina went through a lot at the end of her last journey. She changed figuratively and literally; she evolved into something more, but is still the Miss Mundy from North Carolina we met at the start. She also happens to be on the run now, hiding out and working in a California bar – but she’s also making Southern sweet tea and promising banana pudding to her co-workers The South hasn’t left her, despite all she’s been through. Like friends you haven’t seen in years, everything has changed. It also hasn’t. Author Karissa Laurel captures that in Solina very well.
Despite what otherwise appears a respite from her troubles, there is never rest for those who make friends (or enemies) with ancient gods, nor is there rest when you take the essence of one into yourself. It’s even worse when that essence is also the key to bringing about a new Ragnarok by her enemies.
THE GOOD: Arctic Dawn picks up a few months after the first entry. Enough time has passed for a bit of character progression, and it’s handled in a way that merits discussion. We all change over time. I expect the characters in my stories to change over time as well. This progression is important to keep a sequel, and especially a series, from going stale. Solina has changed an awful lot since the beginning of her tale, as has her friend Skyla. Thorin and Val, however, are another story. They’re still at each other’s throats like the Alpha males they are. Val is still trying to seduce Solina at every opportunity, and Thorin is still conflicted over his emotions. Thorin and Val lack an obvious progression of character that opposes the development of Solina and Skyla. Yet I’m listing this in The Good section – why? Throin and Val are immortal. Time flows differently for them, and a few months – a couple of years even – is not necessarily an acceptable amount of time for them to leave behind centuries of perspective, habit, and manly insecurities. That’s right, manly insecurities. It sounds better than “the inability to share emotions because I am man, beat my chest and hear me roar”. Or, it’s shorter to type – one of the two. Looking back on it, I would find an equivalent in character progression for them in this amount of time to be more bothersome than the lack of it, and in the end appreciate this from the author.
The story itself is solid, and an appropriate follow-up in terms of scale. There are a few more locations to explore, and a bit more history of the gods with whom Solina keeps company. Where Midnight Burning was tightly focused both geographically and in literary scope, Arctic Dawn takes the next step with characters traversing multiple locations and the histories of Val, Thorin and others being explored. Where the novel titles juxtapose a heated night with a freezing dawn, so too do we find ourselves in the deserts of Arizona and the snowy mountains of Thorin’s home away from home. Loyalties are questioned and emotions challenged. Karissa Laurel is moving forward with a series that requires her to step it up with each entry, and Arctic Dawn satisfies without introducing the worry that it’ll become hard to top moving forward.
THE BAD: On a personal level (I am a man after all), I would have enjoyed exploring Thorin and Val’s past in more depth. Enough information was provided, but I find myself wanting more. Whether this would have been detrimental to the story in the end is a question I’ve been wrestling with myself, and I remain conflicted. I may not be the author’s target audience, but the genre is a mainstay for me. I love a strong female protagonist, especially when they’re not so focused on their strengths that they refuse to show a weakness, but I can’t shake wanting more justification for the stubbornness over emotions these ancient gods display. I discussed above that it makes sense they are still stubborn, in terms of how they view time and would evolve slower than a mortal – I just want to have a deeper understanding what has happened over the centuries that has caused them to still remain so closed.
Just enough happens with a variety of characters in this entry that I feel each of them could have easily filled another chapter or two. Again, enough is present to handle the story from start to finish, but I wasn’t done with the Valkyries and their base before we moved on. Helen, our enemy in book one and persisting through book two, kept mostly to the background here. That’s fine, obviously we’ll be seeing more of her later, but everything still revolved around her. This kept the satisfaction of an epic encounter with her dormant, and will obviously have to wait until the next entry. It was odd, bringing her up and being reminded of her throughout, only to hit the end and realize we’ve never really had the showdown I was expecting.
THE CONCLUSION: If you enjoyed Midnight Burning, please continue because Arctic Dawn delivers. If you’ve not yet read book one, consider this my endorsement to do so. I also rated it a 4 last July. I’m really looking forward to what is in store for these new friends of mine on the next step of their struggle to prevent the end of the world. I rather like this world, and would keep it around as long as possible. While I’ll never tire of wizard detectives and private investigators, shaman cops or elemental assassins, the charm of Norse meets South is a satisfying addition the Urban Fantasy stories that occupy my mind.
I’ll be keeping an eye on Karissa Laurel as she delves into what looks to be Fantasy, based on the great cover displayed on her site for the upcoming Heir of Thunder (Book One of the Stormbourne Chronicles).
Seeing old friends after a time away is always a pleasure. They’ve changed, you’ve changed, but somehow your relationship hasn’t – at least not in the way that matters as you sit down with a drink to catch up. It’s been a full year since I read Midnight Burning – twelve full months since I last read of Solina Mundy and her Norse god friends. We were due to sit down and catch up.
Solina went through a lot at the end of her last journey. She changed figuratively and literally; she evolved into something more, but is still the Miss Mundy from North Carolina we met at the start. She also happens to be on the run now, hiding out and working in a California bar – but she’s also making Southern sweet tea and promising banana pudding to her co-workers The South hasn’t left her, despite all she’s been through. Like friends you haven’t seen in years, everything has changed. It also hasn’t. Author Karissa Laurel captures that in Solina very well.
Despite what otherwise appears a respite from her troubles, there is never rest for those who make friends (or enemies) with ancient gods, nor is there rest when you take the essence of one into yourself. It’s even worse when that essence is also the key to bringing about a new Ragnarok by her enemies.
THE GOOD: Arctic Dawn picks up a few months after the first entry. Enough time has passed for a bit of character progression, and it’s handled in a way that merits discussion. We all change over time. I expect the characters in my stories to change over time as well. This progression is important to keep a sequel, and especially a series, from going stale. Solina has changed an awful lot since the beginning of her tale, as has her friend Skyla. Thorin and Val, however, are another story. They’re still at each other’s throats like the Alpha males they are. Val is still trying to seduce Solina at every opportunity, and Thorin is still conflicted over his emotions. Thorin and Val lack an obvious progression of character that opposes the development of Solina and Skyla. Yet I’m listing this in The Good section – why? Throin and Val are immortal. Time flows differently for them, and a few months – a couple of years even – is not necessarily an acceptable amount of time for them to leave behind centuries of perspective, habit, and manly insecurities. That’s right, manly insecurities. It sounds better than “the inability to share emotions because I am man, beat my chest and hear me roar”. Or, it’s shorter to type – one of the two. Looking back on it, I would find an equivalent in character progression for them in this amount of time to be more bothersome than the lack of it, and in the end appreciate this from the author.
The story itself is solid, and an appropriate follow-up in terms of scale. There are a few more locations to explore, and a bit more history of the gods with whom Solina keeps company. Where Midnight Burning was tightly focused both geographically and in literary scope, Arctic Dawn takes the next step with characters traversing multiple locations and the histories of Val, Thorin and others being explored. Where the novel titles juxtapose a heated night with a freezing dawn, so too do we find ourselves in the deserts of Arizona and the snowy mountains of Thorin’s home away from home. Loyalties are questioned and emotions challenged. Karissa Laurel is moving forward with a series that requires her to step it up with each entry, and Arctic Dawn satisfies without introducing the worry that it’ll become hard to top moving forward.
THE BAD: On a personal level (I am a man after all), I would have enjoyed exploring Thorin and Val’s past in more depth. Enough information was provided, but I find myself wanting more. Whether this would have been detrimental to the story in the end is a question I’ve been wrestling with myself, and I remain conflicted. I may not be the author’s target audience, but the genre is a mainstay for me. I love a strong female protagonist, especially when they’re not so focused on their strengths that they refuse to show a weakness, but I can’t shake wanting more justification for the stubbornness over emotions these ancient gods display. I discussed above that it makes sense they are still stubborn, in terms of how they view time and would evolve slower than a mortal – I just want to have a deeper understanding what has happened over the centuries that has caused them to still remain so closed.
Just enough happens with a variety of characters in this entry that I feel each of them could have easily filled another chapter or two. Again, enough is present to handle the story from start to finish, but I wasn’t done with the Valkyries and their base before we moved on. Helen, our enemy in book one and persisting through book two, kept mostly to the background here. That’s fine, obviously we’ll be seeing more of her later, but everything still revolved around her. This kept the satisfaction of an epic encounter with her dormant, and will obviously have to wait until the next entry. It was odd, bringing her up and being reminded of her throughout, only to hit the end and realize we’ve never really had the showdown I was expecting.
THE CONCLUSION: If you enjoyed Midnight Burning, please continue because Arctic Dawn delivers. If you’ve not yet read book one, consider this my endorsement to do so. I also rated it a 4 last July. I’m really looking forward to what is in store for these new friends of mine on the next step of their struggle to prevent the end of the world. I rather like this world, and would keep it around as long as possible. While I’ll never tire of wizard detectives and private investigators, shaman cops or elemental assassins, the charm of Norse meets South is a satisfying addition the Urban Fantasy stories that occupy my mind.
I’ll be keeping an eye on Karissa Laurel as she delves into what looks to be Fantasy, based on the great cover displayed on her site for the upcoming Heir of Thunder (Book One of the Stormbourne Chronicles).
August 1, 2017
I waited a long time between books to read this sequel, so maybe that's why it wasn't as fulfilling as the first one. You definitely need to have read the first book to fully appreciate this one. I liked it -- it wasn't exceptional but good nonetheless.
December 18, 2017
Now that the pieces are in place, this book offers more action and (*giggles* *blush*) Thorin than the first one. Really enjoyed this sequel and if you liked the first book, you'll enjoy this one.
June 18, 2019
A good read. Frustrating most times but that ending made up for it. Just as riveting as the first one.
Absolute cannot wait to read the next book
Adios & Happy Reading, folks! ☺
Absolute cannot wait to read the next book
Adios & Happy Reading, folks! ☺
August 4, 2016
Alone and exhausted after her month-long sojourn as a shooting star, Solina Mundy flees to southern California to lie low, recuperate, and plot a survival strategy. The one person she trusts to watch her back is her best friend, Skyla Ramirez. But Skyla has been missing for weeks.
The arrival of a dangerous stranger and the discovery of a legendary weapon of mass destruction forces Solina out of hiding and back into the fight for her life. Solina knows she won’t last long on her own. She must find out what happened to Skyla and unite her contentious allies if she hopes to track down this devastating weapon before her enemies use it to burn the world to ash.
Rating: 4.5/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: so much delicious snark; love the scattered pop culture references; this is one roMESS I both am afraid to see the end of, and am dying to see resolved; quick read filled with action and adventure; love the continued focus on Norse mythology; I just want to squash these characters to pieces
I just... I don't even... GAAAAAAAAH! Karissa Laurel, you have done it again--swept me up on a journey of snark, adventure, and cinnamon roll characters only to leave me hanging by a thread at the end, drooling for the next book. Please, please, tell me the next book comes out soonish--I don't know how long I can stand to wait this time! I need to know, I need to knoooooow!
Ahem. Let me try to find a bit of coherence now, yes?
Nikka probably suspected I was running from a bad relationship. She was right if one could call the thing between Skoll and Helen Locke and me a relationship--an apocalyptic hate triangle, more like.
Once again, this book was full to the BRIM with Norse mythology and pop culture references. I found myself giggling every couple of pages--there are references to Chuck Norris, to Disney movies, and SO many others I'm sure I didn't even catch them all. Each time, I found myself cracking a smile--the mix between the "old" and the "new" really worked to keep a balance throughout this book, and draw the two worlds together in a coherent and well-planned way.
The plot is fast-paced and loaded with action. Between the battle scenes, the "AHA!" moments, and the general tenacity of the characters, I was torn between racing headlong toward the ending and slowing down enough to savor the story--after all, I don't know when the next book will be released. It's bound to be quite the long wait--but I just couldn't keep myself from devouring this book! Karissa Laurel does a fine job of "wrapping up" the smaller plot line of the current book, and maintaining the larger, more out-of-focus story as set-up for the next installment. While these books end with sort-of cliffhangers, they manage to give readers a sense of completion and satisfaction.
"I don't know if you were paying attention, but I have had a meltdown. And it lasted for a month."
"Oh, I was paying attention," she said. "That wasn't a meltdown."
"What was it then?"
"A flare-up."
I snorted and grinned. "Are you calling me a hemorrhoid?"
The snark is almost ten times that of the first book--there were SO MANY clap-backs, sassy moments, and deliciously played scenes, especially between Thorin and Solina. I both feared for and looked forward to scenes of them, anticipating heartache all the while wishing for more. Their weird push-and-pull dance is getting tighter, the more books are added to this series...and I'm looking forward to the explosion, honestly. I am anticipating it impatiently, if I'm honest--I just want to shake them until they kiss already and get it over with, because PENGUINS, the tension there is just bone-searing.
The rest of the cast is no less entertaining, though, so don't be put-off! There are battles of life and death, there are several cruel twists of fate, there's a trickster who fooled even ME... Pretty much anything you could ever want in a book about the children of Gods, you can find in this series, and it's awesomely done!
Val said I had opened Pandora's Box, and maybe he was right. But Pandora had closed the box before hope could escape. Did that mean she had doomed the world to hopelessness, or had she kept it safe so we'd know where to find it when we needed it most? I chose to believe the latter. I chose to believe we could win.
I cannot WAIT for book three--it's going to be a nail-biting, emotionally-jarring time for me, I feel, as I'm invested in these characters to my very core. I need to know what happens next. I need it like penguins need webbed feet and round bellies. I need it like air, which I know sounds dramatic, but... It's the truth. If you're searching for a series with a heavy focus on Norse mythology, snarky characters, and roMESSes...this series?! Definitely for you. Don't just take my word for it--go pick these books up! I'm in for the long haul with this one; you should be, too.
August 22, 2019
4.5 stars (review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)
Ok, I thought Midnight Burning (book 1 in The Norse Chronicles) was good. But, Karissa really stepped up her game in Arctic Dawn (book two). She had MORE battles, MORE suspense, and MORE shocking revelations. She also introduced golems to us. They are men formed entirely out of stone, clay, and rock. They were hard to defeat which made for fantastic fight scenes!
Throughout Arctic Dawn, Karissa made me doubt everyone who’s aligned with Solina. Every word, every action was examined under my mental microscope and I loved every moment of deciphering who was friend and who was foe.
If you liked Midnight Burning, trust me, you’re going to LOVE Arctic Dawn! And I bet after you read Arctic Dawn you’ll be eager to read Molten Dusk (book three) because, like me, you just have to know what happens next.
Oh and Karissa, I loved the flaming sword! Wicked cool weapon!
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
Ok, I thought Midnight Burning (book 1 in The Norse Chronicles) was good. But, Karissa really stepped up her game in Arctic Dawn (book two). She had MORE battles, MORE suspense, and MORE shocking revelations. She also introduced golems to us. They are men formed entirely out of stone, clay, and rock. They were hard to defeat which made for fantastic fight scenes!
Throughout Arctic Dawn, Karissa made me doubt everyone who’s aligned with Solina. Every word, every action was examined under my mental microscope and I loved every moment of deciphering who was friend and who was foe.
If you liked Midnight Burning, trust me, you’re going to LOVE Arctic Dawn! And I bet after you read Arctic Dawn you’ll be eager to read Molten Dusk (book three) because, like me, you just have to know what happens next.
Oh and Karissa, I loved the flaming sword! Wicked cool weapon!
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
July 21, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, similar to the last book. We got to learn more about all of the gods. At the end of the last book, we were starting to get a better image of Thorin and his life. We also get to see how connected Solina and Thorin have become throughout the series so far. Each character develops nicely through this book. Though Thorin and Solina are the main characters, all the secondary characters grew in this book. We find out a lot about Skyla and Val in this book. We also get a validation about why Skyla doesn't like Val. Also, I can normally tell when a plot twist is coming and I totally didn't see the twist near the end. I loved how Laurel managed to write in that twist so it worked seamlessly and didn't make it seem forced. I found that it actually explained some things from the previous book.
This book's storyline felt a little segregated from that last book. Though it's a direct continuation from the previous book, Helen barely mentioned. It seemed to focuses mainly on the Valkeries and the mysterious man who found Solina before she reaches out to Thorin. Though they do go after Skoll in this book, however, he does manage to get away. Or at least that's what they believe. I felt like, though this book does build the storyline, it was mainly focused on character development. There were some lovely action scenes, however, some of them were glanced over because Soline wasn't present for the fights.
Overall, I loved this series. I still find it similar to the Charlie Davidson Series. I will say though that this book also seems to pull from Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson Series. This is a really interesting book series so far.
I received a complimentary copy of the trilogy for my honest review.
This book's storyline felt a little segregated from that last book. Though it's a direct continuation from the previous book, Helen barely mentioned. It seemed to focuses mainly on the Valkeries and the mysterious man who found Solina before she reaches out to Thorin. Though they do go after Skoll in this book, however, he does manage to get away. Or at least that's what they believe. I felt like, though this book does build the storyline, it was mainly focused on character development. There were some lovely action scenes, however, some of them were glanced over because Soline wasn't present for the fights.
Overall, I loved this series. I still find it similar to the Charlie Davidson Series. I will say though that this book also seems to pull from Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson Series. This is a really interesting book series so far.
I received a complimentary copy of the trilogy for my honest review.
December 21, 2020
This book was soooo good, you have to read it....on to book 3
March 11, 2017
I thought the prequel was amazing, Book 1 was unbelievable, but Arctic Dawn blows them both out of the water! Waiting in anticipation for Book 3 ...
July 18, 2016
I didn’t think it was possible, but I love Arctic Dawn even more than the first book in the series!
I had the privilege of reviewing Midnight Burning for my mistress site Booknista and I really liked it. When the opportunity to review Arctic Dawn came around, I was really excited to pick up where I left off.
The Story…
Arctic Dawn, book #2 in Karissa Laurel’s series, The Norse Chronicles, picks up exactly where the first book ended. After going supernova, Solina Mundy seems to wink out of existence for nearly a month. When she does surface, she purposely falls off the grid, hiding out in southern California. There she slowly recuperate, assumes a new identity and plots out a survival strategy.
She does her best to make Alaska and everything it represents, a distant memory. The one person she wishes she could talk to, is her friend Skyla and she has been missing since that fateful night.
The arrival of a threatening stranger and the discovery of a powerful weapon, forces Solina out of hiding. She is forced to reach out to allies best forgotten, because without them, she knows she won’t survive on her own. The legendary weapon must be found before it is used to burn the world to ash.
Arctic Dawn by Karissa Laurel- Sutr- Book Review by Reads & Reels
What I Thought…
WOW! Simply put… Amazing! I loved Arctic Dawn. The writing, story, character progression, everything. As I previously mentioned, I really liked Midnight Burning but this one sealed the deal for me. I’m hooked now, so like everyone else I will have to go through the agonizing wait time for the third installment.
I think it is natural that the writing would improve as the series progresses. Perhaps the writer holds back just a little, either intentionally for dramatic effect or maybe just jitters. Karissa did not hold back on us and as a result Arctic Dawn was exciting, sexy and intense.
I still love the original idea, having her story revolve around Norse mythology. I like the characters, even the baddies and I love that there is a hint of romance in the background, but it’s subtle.
Honestly I don’t have a single complaint about this book, or the series as a whole. It is engaging, well written and extremely entertaining! Well done Karissa, and please don’t make us wait too long for the next one!
Reads & Reels
www.readsandreels.com
I had the privilege of reviewing Midnight Burning for my mistress site Booknista and I really liked it. When the opportunity to review Arctic Dawn came around, I was really excited to pick up where I left off.
The Story…
Arctic Dawn, book #2 in Karissa Laurel’s series, The Norse Chronicles, picks up exactly where the first book ended. After going supernova, Solina Mundy seems to wink out of existence for nearly a month. When she does surface, she purposely falls off the grid, hiding out in southern California. There she slowly recuperate, assumes a new identity and plots out a survival strategy.
She does her best to make Alaska and everything it represents, a distant memory. The one person she wishes she could talk to, is her friend Skyla and she has been missing since that fateful night.
The arrival of a threatening stranger and the discovery of a powerful weapon, forces Solina out of hiding. She is forced to reach out to allies best forgotten, because without them, she knows she won’t survive on her own. The legendary weapon must be found before it is used to burn the world to ash.
Arctic Dawn by Karissa Laurel- Sutr- Book Review by Reads & Reels
What I Thought…
WOW! Simply put… Amazing! I loved Arctic Dawn. The writing, story, character progression, everything. As I previously mentioned, I really liked Midnight Burning but this one sealed the deal for me. I’m hooked now, so like everyone else I will have to go through the agonizing wait time for the third installment.
I think it is natural that the writing would improve as the series progresses. Perhaps the writer holds back just a little, either intentionally for dramatic effect or maybe just jitters. Karissa did not hold back on us and as a result Arctic Dawn was exciting, sexy and intense.
I still love the original idea, having her story revolve around Norse mythology. I like the characters, even the baddies and I love that there is a hint of romance in the background, but it’s subtle.
Honestly I don’t have a single complaint about this book, or the series as a whole. It is engaging, well written and extremely entertaining! Well done Karissa, and please don’t make us wait too long for the next one!
Reads & Reels
www.readsandreels.com
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