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Phoebe Meadows #3
Exiled
Phoebe Meadows is on trial for her life.
After freeing her half-brother, Baldur, Phoebe is set to stand before the Council in Asgard to answer for her actions. The threat of exile if she’s found guilty looms, not to mention the added stress of meeting her real father for the first time.
Upon entering Asgard, Phoebe discovers new allies in a half-brother she’s never met as well as an oracle who is in possession of valuable information. A little added help couldn’t have come at a better time, because when Phoebe is tossed into an unknown realm, she’s only armed with Gundren, a jewel, and her wits.
When Loki shows up, all bets are off. The trickster god throws a wrench in Phoebe’s plans and kidnaps Fen, her only ally. And just when she thinks she sees the light at the end of the tunnel, Phoebe finds she has to defeat one last obstacle: The Norns.
And they aren’t planning to go down without a fight…
After freeing her half-brother, Baldur, Phoebe is set to stand before the Council in Asgard to answer for her actions. The threat of exile if she’s found guilty looms, not to mention the added stress of meeting her real father for the first time.
Upon entering Asgard, Phoebe discovers new allies in a half-brother she’s never met as well as an oracle who is in possession of valuable information. A little added help couldn’t have come at a better time, because when Phoebe is tossed into an unknown realm, she’s only armed with Gundren, a jewel, and her wits.
When Loki shows up, all bets are off. The trickster god throws a wrench in Phoebe’s plans and kidnaps Fen, her only ally. And just when she thinks she sees the light at the end of the tunnel, Phoebe finds she has to defeat one last obstacle: The Norns.
And they aren’t planning to go down without a fight…
358 pages, ebook
First published March 23, 2017
11 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Carlson
29 books712 followersAmanda Carlson is the author of the upcoming Jessica McClain series. The first book, Full Blooded, will be released by Hachette Book Group, ORBIT US & UK SEPT 2012. She’s been writing for over ten years. Full Blooded is her first novel. She lives in Minneapolis, with her husband and three kids.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 26, 2017
Exiled is book three in the Phoebe Meadows series by Amanda Carlson. It’s a series that needs to be read in order.
We are treated to another fast-paced adventure. This one didn’t have as much action/battles, but it was still a high energy adventure. Phoebe is thrown into a world, she doesn’t fully understand. She has gained friends and allies along the way, but now she’s going to Asgard, not to visit, but to stand trial.
This book was amazing! I loved the detail and description of Asgard and Helheim. I love the Norse mythology and the authors own spin on it. It was wonderful to explore new places and revisit old friends. Their is no rest for Phoebe and if she wants to have a future, she must find away to complete her mission or die. She faces new enemies, challenges, and gets to meet more family. The romance between Fen and her is still strong. Sam is still around and what a whopper of a twist at the end with her.
This series is a lot of fun. It’s action-packed and fast-paced urban fantasy. I’m eagerly waiting to see what’s next for our band of characters.
Rated: 4 Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Amanda Carlson with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
April 19, 2017
At the end of the previous book we saw Phoebe and her friends travelling to Asgard so she can stand trial for helping Baldur escape. The Goddess Frigg blames her for Baldur's death but Phoebe is hoping she'll be given the chance to prove her innocence and make sure the real culprit is punished. Frigg isn't willing to listen to reason though, her son is dead and all she cares about is getting revenge so it looks like Phoebe will receive the ultimate punishment and find herself exiled to Helheim, the real question is whether Fen will be sent with her or if she'll have to face a new realm full of enemies completely alone.
This series really is going from strength to strength. I love the Norse mythology Amanda Carlson has taken inspiration from and I really enjoyed getting the chance to spend time in both Asgard and Helheim in this book. It's great that we get to explore new places in every instalment of this series and the author does a brilliant job of making each realm feel completely different to the ones we've already visited. The story is action packed as Phoebe is set an almost impossible task by Frigg and she has to face her scariest enemies yet if she wants to be able to return from her exile in Helheim.
Phoebe gets the chance to meet more of her family here too which was a lot of fun, not only do we catch up with her adoptive parents in the human realm but we also learn more about the Valkyrie side of her family and she finally gets to meet her father Odin. The romance between her and Fen is still going strong and I continue to love the friendship between Phoebe and her human friend Sam too. Odin and Frigg aren't the only gods in the mix and Loki is causing mischief just like you'd expect but luckily Phoebe has some powerful allies as well as enemies or she'd be in even more trouble.
I've been having so much fun reading this series and I'm eagerly awaiting the next instalment to see what adventures Phoebe gets up to next.
Source: Received from the author in exchange for an honest review
This series really is going from strength to strength. I love the Norse mythology Amanda Carlson has taken inspiration from and I really enjoyed getting the chance to spend time in both Asgard and Helheim in this book. It's great that we get to explore new places in every instalment of this series and the author does a brilliant job of making each realm feel completely different to the ones we've already visited. The story is action packed as Phoebe is set an almost impossible task by Frigg and she has to face her scariest enemies yet if she wants to be able to return from her exile in Helheim.
Phoebe gets the chance to meet more of her family here too which was a lot of fun, not only do we catch up with her adoptive parents in the human realm but we also learn more about the Valkyrie side of her family and she finally gets to meet her father Odin. The romance between her and Fen is still going strong and I continue to love the friendship between Phoebe and her human friend Sam too. Odin and Frigg aren't the only gods in the mix and Loki is causing mischief just like you'd expect but luckily Phoebe has some powerful allies as well as enemies or she'd be in even more trouble.
I've been having so much fun reading this series and I'm eagerly awaiting the next instalment to see what adventures Phoebe gets up to next.
Source: Received from the author in exchange for an honest review
October 23, 2024
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Read for the Sights of Sweden Challenge 2024-2025
September 20, 2024 - January 10, 2025
Online Availability:
📖 Kindle $
🎧 Audible $/Credit
🎧 Everand Subscription - Audiobook
May 26, 2017
EXILED is book three in the Phoebe Meadows series. In this installment, the group travels to Asgard for Phoebe and Fen's trial for the death of Baldur. The group has a plan, and as long as things don't go too sideways crazy, Phoebe and Fen will come out of this alive!
This is Phoebe's opportunity to meet family, especially her dad and it kind of sucked that it was under these circumstances. However, she does not have much time to contemplate it as hers and Fens trials come right up the next day. They will be dealing with Baldur's grieved mother Frig who is not going to let them away with anything. She is out for blood and is determined that by releasing Baldur from his prison, Phoebe is at fault for killing him.
As expected, the pair get sent to Helhim where they must complete their plan to be exonerated of their crimes. Hel does not make it easy on them, but I felt like she was a little easier than I expected. I mean, she was planning to kill them, but I felt she was bored with it all and didn't really have a lot of fierce hatred behind her driving her to kill them.
Phoebe finds herself with a power that definitely makes her task easier, but also loses her Fen's help. But Phoebe is a really strong, willful character and manages quite well using her planning skills.
As with the preceeding books, EXILED is fast paced and full of tense moments wondering if someone is going to die. I found that I really enjoyed Hel's character and even felt a tad sorry for her. As usual I felt like I was running at break neck speed and I even turned the speed up on my audiobook player because things were moving so fast.
EXILED was a lot of fun with all the characters I've enjoyed so far. I'm really glad Sam got to go to Asgard and I'm dying to know what is going on with her now that she's there! There is another book in this series, right? Or a spin-off? I haven't heard anything, but I have to know what happens to Sam! She is definitely a favorite character! If it wasn't for the Sam stuff I would pretty much say that this was a trilogy and at its end. I hope we don't get left hanging.This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
This is Phoebe's opportunity to meet family, especially her dad and it kind of sucked that it was under these circumstances. However, she does not have much time to contemplate it as hers and Fens trials come right up the next day. They will be dealing with Baldur's grieved mother Frig who is not going to let them away with anything. She is out for blood and is determined that by releasing Baldur from his prison, Phoebe is at fault for killing him.
As expected, the pair get sent to Helhim where they must complete their plan to be exonerated of their crimes. Hel does not make it easy on them, but I felt like she was a little easier than I expected. I mean, she was planning to kill them, but I felt she was bored with it all and didn't really have a lot of fierce hatred behind her driving her to kill them.
Phoebe finds herself with a power that definitely makes her task easier, but also loses her Fen's help. But Phoebe is a really strong, willful character and manages quite well using her planning skills.
As with the preceeding books, EXILED is fast paced and full of tense moments wondering if someone is going to die. I found that I really enjoyed Hel's character and even felt a tad sorry for her. As usual I felt like I was running at break neck speed and I even turned the speed up on my audiobook player because things were moving so fast.
EXILED was a lot of fun with all the characters I've enjoyed so far. I'm really glad Sam got to go to Asgard and I'm dying to know what is going on with her now that she's there! There is another book in this series, right? Or a spin-off? I haven't heard anything, but I have to know what happens to Sam! She is definitely a favorite character! If it wasn't for the Sam stuff I would pretty much say that this was a trilogy and at its end. I hope we don't get left hanging.This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
November 14, 2018
The final novel in the series "Phoebe Meadows"ends in an extraordinary way. Having bested the norns, the life of Phoebe Meadows has just begun and her adventures are just beginning.
After being exiled to Helheim, Phoebe and Fen find themselves counting down what time they have left before Hel decides to kill them as she has already tried once to kill Phoebe. After encountering the only soul able to communicate with her, Phoebe has promised Rory that when she bargains with Hel to release herself and Baldur she will ask for his pardon too in return of him helping herself and Fen escape and retrieve back the stone.
After escaping Helheim, the two find themselves in Wisconsin, Phoebe's home town where they meet Tracey and Phoebe's mum. After having to leave so suddenly by the appearance of Loki showing up in New York, Phoebe leaves Fen to find Vali as he holds off Loki so she can escape.
Once travelling back to Helheim with Vali, Phoebe is able to have herself, Baldur and Rory permission to leave Helheim in time to make it back in time for Fens' trial.
To find out what happens next, Join Phoebe in her final battle against the norns and follow her on one of the most epics adventures!
After being exiled to Helheim, Phoebe and Fen find themselves counting down what time they have left before Hel decides to kill them as she has already tried once to kill Phoebe. After encountering the only soul able to communicate with her, Phoebe has promised Rory that when she bargains with Hel to release herself and Baldur she will ask for his pardon too in return of him helping herself and Fen escape and retrieve back the stone.
After escaping Helheim, the two find themselves in Wisconsin, Phoebe's home town where they meet Tracey and Phoebe's mum. After having to leave so suddenly by the appearance of Loki showing up in New York, Phoebe leaves Fen to find Vali as he holds off Loki so she can escape.
Once travelling back to Helheim with Vali, Phoebe is able to have herself, Baldur and Rory permission to leave Helheim in time to make it back in time for Fens' trial.
To find out what happens next, Join Phoebe in her final battle against the norns and follow her on one of the most epics adventures!
June 6, 2017
I love this series!! I'm sad this is the last of Phoebe's books, but it seems there is definitely something new in the works with some of these characters, and I'm totally excited for that!!! Exiled is the 3rd book in the series, and picks up right where the last book left off, so definitely read the previous books first because this whole series is Phoebe's quest. Phoebe needs to go to Asgard with Fen, and stand trial for some of her actions, and then she needs to go save her brother from Helheim, and on top of all that she still has the Norns after her, and then Loki decides to put his finger in the pot to mix things up further. Can I just say, "The Gods are Boneheads!" They create so many problems! And don't listen to reason! I absolutely love when books go to Hell type places like Helheim or the Underworld, it's always interesting to see an author's take on that type of World, and I really enjoyed Amanda Carlson's portrayal of Helheim, and Hel. This book still has all the awesome creatures as the other books, and it also adds new ones! I love how detailed the story is! Phoebe and Fen are still going strong, and I fell even more in love with them in this book! So sweet! I would love to see even more of their relationship! Phoebe totally kicks butt in this book; although, I don't have any idea why she just doesn't say what she needs right away to certain people! It causes more problems for Phoebe than if she would just tell people her bargain, but luckily she's a survivor! I listened to this whole series on audiobook, and the narrator is super amazing! She does so many different voices! Human, Goblin, Troll, male, female! It doesn't matter, she does them all wonderfully! I have so much love for this series! And will definitely be checking out more from Amanda Carlson!
June 1, 2017
I’m wondering if there’s going to be more books in this series, the way this book left off it could be finished, there wasn’t anything left unresolved, and yet it also left the possibility for many more adventures in the future both for Phoebe & Fen and for other characters, which means there could be more books, or a spin off maybe. I hope there are, I’ve loved the three books so far.
This book picks up right from where book 2 ended, we finally make it to Asgard… and what a fascinating place that turns out to be! From the moment they arrive the action doesn’t stop.
The book is filled with interesting locations, fascinating people and plenty of twists and turns. The descriptions are vivid and I could easily imagine I was watching everything happen. There are laugh out loud moments, and ‘oh no, I’m about to cry in public’ moments as the book drags you along on an emotional journey on pace with the characters journey.
It probably goes without saying, but if you loved the first two books then this one is just as good! If you haven’t read the first two you should be aware this is a series that needs to be listened to in order.
Loved the narration, great character voices, great pacing and phrasing, great… well everything!
This book was supplied free by the author/narrator/publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
This book picks up right from where book 2 ended, we finally make it to Asgard… and what a fascinating place that turns out to be! From the moment they arrive the action doesn’t stop.
The book is filled with interesting locations, fascinating people and plenty of twists and turns. The descriptions are vivid and I could easily imagine I was watching everything happen. There are laugh out loud moments, and ‘oh no, I’m about to cry in public’ moments as the book drags you along on an emotional journey on pace with the characters journey.
It probably goes without saying, but if you loved the first two books then this one is just as good! If you haven’t read the first two you should be aware this is a series that needs to be listened to in order.
Loved the narration, great character voices, great pacing and phrasing, great… well everything!
This book was supplied free by the author/narrator/publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
June 23, 2017
I was given book 3 for an honest review.
What can I say? I've loved this series! Each book just gets better and better. I'd originally listened to books 1 and 2, one after another, and when I saw Ann Craven offering the audiobook of book 3? Well, needless to say, here I am.
Let me state that Emma Wilder is a great narrator! I don't come across many narrators that I have to go back to for another listen, but her and Valerie Gilbert are my top two female narrators (males are R.C. Bray and Scott Bennet).
I didn't really have any issues with this story. The beginning took me a bit to get drawn into, I'm guessing it was because of the time gap between book 2 and 3. After a bit, the variety of characters (who they are and how they fit into the story) came back to me and I was good.
My only question:
Why did Mrs. Wilder narrate Grete (Phoebe's grandma) the way she did? Grete's voice was very slow with random pausing between words; I didn't understand that. Other than that, I would definitely recommend this series, this narrator, and this author to others.
What can I say? I've loved this series! Each book just gets better and better. I'd originally listened to books 1 and 2, one after another, and when I saw Ann Craven offering the audiobook of book 3? Well, needless to say, here I am.
Let me state that Emma Wilder is a great narrator! I don't come across many narrators that I have to go back to for another listen, but her and Valerie Gilbert are my top two female narrators (males are R.C. Bray and Scott Bennet).
I didn't really have any issues with this story. The beginning took me a bit to get drawn into, I'm guessing it was because of the time gap between book 2 and 3. After a bit, the variety of characters (who they are and how they fit into the story) came back to me and I was good.
My only question:
Why did Mrs. Wilder narrate Grete (Phoebe's grandma) the way she did? Grete's voice was very slow with random pausing between words; I didn't understand that. Other than that, I would definitely recommend this series, this narrator, and this author to others.
May 12, 2017
This book is perfection! I am always amazed by Amanda Carlson and her imagination. Her stories have one of a kind adventure. There is excitement, love, true friendship, more excitement, and I'm always anxious for the next book. This is what the urban fantasy genre is supposed to be. When I finish her stories I can't get them out of my head and no matter how much time as passed between the books I never struggle to get right back into the lives of her characters. There isn't any time spent rehashing the previous books, and they pick up right where the last one ended. I can't wait to see where the characters go from here. I'm a fan for life!
March 5, 2025
A most interesting trilogy. Phobe Meadows battles her way through the worlds of Norse Mythology to save her birth mother. She learns to fight and becomes a Valkyrie. She goes from pariah to hero. A fun adventurous romp. I hope these characters return.
September 1, 2017
Wow what a finish to this series. Loved being back in the world of the Valkyries, gods, elves and Hell. A few plot twists and some great action and suspense. Sad that the ride is over!
June 16, 2018
I believe I need to read entire phoebe meadows series to enjoy the writing
September 14, 2018
I want more books in this series
January 11, 2019
It was a long and adventurous for Phoebe Meadows. I am sadden we didn't get to see Thor.
I thought Sam and Tyr would be an item.
I thought Sam and Tyr would be an item.
March 25, 2019
Great ending to a fun series.
December 16, 2020
Nice wrap-up of the series.
September 5, 2021
A bit rushed in places I think. But overall a good ending. I feel like it was left open for another book or series but apparently, that didn't happen. I just wish I knew Sam's origin.
October 31, 2022
Hopefully there will be another one after this
March 24, 2017
This book was amazing! the 3rd book in the Phoebe Meadows series, Phoebe has to stand trial for the death of Baldur. Not all is as it seems. This book was very fast paced, with many twists and turns. I couldn't put it down. I love the way it ended as well. It had a good wrap up as well as a teaser that there is more to come. I can't wait for the next installment in this series!
August 13, 2017
*I received this book from the author or publisher in exchange for an honest review.
We pick up right where FREED left off. Phoebe and her family and friends are returning to Asgard for her trial, and Fin's. For what? Phoebe faces the goddess mother of Baldur for her part in his death. Fin faces judgement for escaping where he was held captive. Phoebe knows she did nothing wrong and definitely didn't kill Baldur. However the justice system at Asgard is very different than she was expecting. But Phoebe has influences from high powers on her side. She makes a deal that if she can bring Baldur back from Hel's side in Helheim, she and Fin will be allowed back into Asgard. But the path isn't as smooth as she hopes.
Amanda is known for writing books that keep moving forward with action. Exiled is no different. Phoebe has many obstacles to face before she gets to where she wants to be. And things don't always go as one plans or hopes.
Phoebe has some adventures with Fin, but there are many long moments she's without Fin. What I enjoy about this is she stands on her own and figures things out herself. Phoebe is growing stronger in her decisions and choices in this new world of gods and goddesses she's in. She needs to be able to function on her own, and she's learning to do just that. Phoebe retains her kindness towards others as she goes on her adventures. Well, with those who are kind to her too. There are a few new character we are introduced to. These characters are important with their individual destinies crossing with Phoebe's. You know with the gods, destiny is always a driving force and it's seen here.
Phoebe's family grows. Phoebe meets her grandmother. A formidable woman who lead the valkarie's in her time in service. Phoebe meets her father! He is like two different people - her father then the man that rules strong. But he has influences in the way of things as well. Somethings were put into motion years before Phoebe was born.
An old god appears in this book and is one Phoebe finds to be a strong adversary. Loki. Loki wants her for a very special reason. But can she out run him and complete what she needs to save herself? Then maybe she can talk to those that can help take care of Loki. And what about the three hags? They are still after her, and turning all of Asgard against her.
Phoebe's time in Helheim is very neat. I like that Hel is not as terrible a goddess as we could have seen. She's... different and seems as she's neglected or forgotten by others with her looks and being down here. Hel is tough and has to rule as she does, but Phoebe keeps working at her and at the souls down here. Oh! In mentioning the souls, there is one Phoebe gets help from. Interesting character. I really liked the connection with this soul.
At the end of the book we learn a bit about Phoebe's friend, Sam, while being in Asgard. She's a strong, fun character but there is more to her than we all suspected! You'll have to read to learn that, and I'm hoping to get all these details in book(s) to come!
I enjoyed this journey with Phoebe. Her time in Helheim was a great time. She has grown as a Valkarie and in her own abilities.
We pick up right where FREED left off. Phoebe and her family and friends are returning to Asgard for her trial, and Fin's. For what? Phoebe faces the goddess mother of Baldur for her part in his death. Fin faces judgement for escaping where he was held captive. Phoebe knows she did nothing wrong and definitely didn't kill Baldur. However the justice system at Asgard is very different than she was expecting. But Phoebe has influences from high powers on her side. She makes a deal that if she can bring Baldur back from Hel's side in Helheim, she and Fin will be allowed back into Asgard. But the path isn't as smooth as she hopes.
Amanda is known for writing books that keep moving forward with action. Exiled is no different. Phoebe has many obstacles to face before she gets to where she wants to be. And things don't always go as one plans or hopes.
Phoebe has some adventures with Fin, but there are many long moments she's without Fin. What I enjoy about this is she stands on her own and figures things out herself. Phoebe is growing stronger in her decisions and choices in this new world of gods and goddesses she's in. She needs to be able to function on her own, and she's learning to do just that. Phoebe retains her kindness towards others as she goes on her adventures. Well, with those who are kind to her too. There are a few new character we are introduced to. These characters are important with their individual destinies crossing with Phoebe's. You know with the gods, destiny is always a driving force and it's seen here.
Phoebe's family grows. Phoebe meets her grandmother. A formidable woman who lead the valkarie's in her time in service. Phoebe meets her father! He is like two different people - her father then the man that rules strong. But he has influences in the way of things as well. Somethings were put into motion years before Phoebe was born.
An old god appears in this book and is one Phoebe finds to be a strong adversary. Loki. Loki wants her for a very special reason. But can she out run him and complete what she needs to save herself? Then maybe she can talk to those that can help take care of Loki. And what about the three hags? They are still after her, and turning all of Asgard against her.
Phoebe's time in Helheim is very neat. I like that Hel is not as terrible a goddess as we could have seen. She's... different and seems as she's neglected or forgotten by others with her looks and being down here. Hel is tough and has to rule as she does, but Phoebe keeps working at her and at the souls down here. Oh! In mentioning the souls, there is one Phoebe gets help from. Interesting character. I really liked the connection with this soul.
At the end of the book we learn a bit about Phoebe's friend, Sam, while being in Asgard. She's a strong, fun character but there is more to her than we all suspected! You'll have to read to learn that, and I'm hoping to get all these details in book(s) to come!
I enjoyed this journey with Phoebe. Her time in Helheim was a great time. She has grown as a Valkarie and in her own abilities.
September 12, 2017
I loved this book! It was so good and there was an interesting development at the end that I can't wait to see the direction of in the next book!
March 29, 2017
REVIEW
As I am approaching reading this book I am looking forward to reading a book that I know from the experience of reading the two prior books in the series, will be action packed. I have so many questions from finishing Freed running around in my head. Such as what will the result and sentencing of Fenrir and Phobe. . .will they be given a fair trial? What will Frigg want as revenge for Phoebe freeing her son Baldur that ultimately led to his death? I also wonder if Odin will try or be able to lessen any charges or there consequences for the daughter he has yet to meet? I've noticed in the blurb another half brother is mentioned, what will he be like. . . Baldur was good and supported Phoebe but not all half brothers will be the same...And one of my big questions is Will Fenrir and Phoebe be exiled together?Or will part of their punishment be that they are separated?
So the cover is dominated by the figure of Phoebe brandishing her power through Gundren, her twin swords. You can see the power bursting forth from Gundren. The Cover background colour is orange which to me suggest fighting, perhaps in another realm . . like hell maybe, certainly not a wholly great or safe place. Also the small black bird once again features on this cover, is he carrying a message or help from his master Odin to Phoebe?
The by line on the cover is "Lightening strikes Eternal" so I guess the exact meaning of that will be revealed upon reading the book. This book cover fits well with the rest of the series (hmmm *sighs dreamily* look fantastic together on a book shelf) yet has its own colour and elements too. As with the rest of the series, my opinion is this book will shout out from the bookstore shelves.
So we left Freed with Phoebe having to go to Asgard to face court and sentencing as well as facing Frigg who holds her totally responsible for the death of her son, Baldur.
When Fenrir, Phoebe, Tyr, Sam, Leela, Ingrid, Rae and some other Valkyries arrive via Ringhorn the ship that previously belonged to Baldur. (Baldur had left Ringhorn to Tyr.) When the group arrive at Asgard they have to wait to be inspected prior to being allowed into Asgard. There's plenty of posturing between Reggie the head of the guard and his cousin Rae, a Valkyrie accompanying Phoebe. Eventually it is agreed that the Valkyries could march along with Reggie and the Guard taking Phoebe and Fenrir through the streets of Asgard. The crowd is hostile believing what they have been told be the Norns, Verdandi and Skuld who have arrived early for the trial. Most people believe that the word of the Norns is always honest and in the best interest for everyone. Even though the Phoebe, Fenrir and the Valkyrie, etc know that the Norns can, and do lie to benefit themselves. Phoebe is shocked by the appearance of the Asgardian people on the streets. They are certainly not what she expected as the women in particular are dressed in a more old fashioned style, with women in Phoebe also realises that the Asgardians are also more conservative in their ways than she had thought they would be too.
The first compromise Phoebe has to make, is the fact that once at the gates of the jail she has to leave her mother and the majority of her friends behind. Only Tyr is allowed to accompany Phoebe and Fenrir inside. Tyr explains that Fenrir will be taken to a cell to await trial as he has escaped on many occasions and considered unstable. It is hoped that Phoebe will be able to return outside and stay with the rest of her friends and family with Valkyrie Ingrid and her family as Ingrid has organised. Phoebe also has to relinquish her swords/Gundren to Tyr for safe keeping. Tyr promises to make sure they are returned to her prior to her being exiled. Both Phoebe and Fenrir hope that they will be sent to Helheim together but the details of their exile still remain uncertain. Their fate is quite literally in the hands of Frigg. As far as Frigg is concerned it is Phoebe who killed her son. Phoebe and those that stand for her plead her innocence, and swear to the fact that Baldur was killed by Vervandi throwing a mistletoe dart straight through his heart. Frigg will not listen and still blames Phoebe for freeing Baldur from his prison, saying that led to his death.
The task Phoebe and Fenrir are given is to go to Helheim and and convince Hel to allow Baldur to return to Asgard. Odin cannot be seen to favour either Phoebe or Fenrir in any way. He must appear to remain impartial.
One of the scenes I loved most in the book was when Hugin leads Phoebe to the secret, private meeting with her father, Odin. In amongst all the angst and worry of the trial, it is a brilliant scene of their first meeting. As they part Odin does warn his daughter that he will appear a totally different man in the courtroom to prepare her.
As usual things never really go to plan for Phoebe, she had an inkling her trial would not be a particularly fair one as Frigg has already decided upon her guilt. The scene in the courtroom is all set for a fair trial, with people to speak up on her behalf, of course things are going badly so, Phoebe attempts to speak up for herself. Frigg doesn't want to hear the truth she is a grieving mother and wishes to blame the young Valkyrie standing in front of her so it's off to Helheim for Phoebe! When she arrives in Helheim before Fenrir which was the original rough plan she has to adapt quickly and has to go it alone for a while.
We meet Hel for the first time who is daughter of Loki so sister to Fenrir, though you don't really see much family love from any of them. Though Phoebe has a set plan, she has to change it often and let it evolve as the circumstances are continually changing, rather like fate is also constantly changing. Of course we also have more from the Norns in this book too. They certainly seem to have their own agenda and Phoebe is the one thorn in their side! There's lots of trickery, rumours and gossip going on in Asgard, which has Phoebe having to be very careful about who she trusts and gives the Valkyries a difficult job of guarding her too.
A new character I loved was Vali, a quieter character but a very loyal one who has an important task and becomes embroiled in Phoebes mission.
An old favourite character that we've already met is Sam who is once again feisty and fearless when trying to protect her best friend Phoebe. Sam is still loved up with Tyr and he is finding out that she is not a "sweet, mild, quiet" woman who wishes to stay home and have babies. Sam is independent and I think if given the chance would possibly become a Valkyrie like Phoebe! Another plot theme running throughout the book is the fact that Sam seems to be changing whilst being in Asgard, and at the very end of the book we do get a suggestion of both what she may be and what her heritage/parentage is. I'm hoping for more of that in the next book!
I also enjoyed learning more about Asgard and the authors descriptions of Phoebe's surroundings helps you visual them. Grete's house sounds so . . . . well the words cute, endearing, and charming don't cover it. Asgard sounds idyllic, picturesque, and quaint. I loved the description of the renaissance style clothes the women wear. Only Valkyries wear trousers! Valkyries fight until they retire to find a mate and have children. Though if the future of Valkyries can be influenced and their "rules" changed I think Phoebe could be at the centre of the changes along with her mother Leela and grandmother Grete.
So that's as specific I am going to get for now, as I don't want to spoil your own reading of the book! I will say Mythology is not a genre I would immediately think of reading, and some I have tried I haven't been so keen on but I love this series by Amanda Carlson. There is lots of action, adventure, mishaps and mayhem in this book to be enjoyed! If you love mythology, then this is definitely for you! But even if you are not in love with the mythological genre
My final thoughts as I finished reading the book late the other evening were . . . Wow! another fantastic book about Phoebe Meadows our favourite kick butt Asgardian. Lots of action, lots of plot twists, loved it......when can we have the next one Amanda Carlson? I love Phoebe Meadows & Jessica McClain & I am eagerly waiting to meet Holly Danger too!
March 31, 2017
Phoebe having freed her half brother from prison only to have him die at the hands of the Norns is now on trial for his death. Her arrival in Asgard is met with mixed feelings of intrigue and hostility. She is a novelty to the Asgardian population as the hidden daughter of Odin. The Goddess Frigg is inconsolable over the loss of her son and she holds Phoebe personally responsible even if hers was not the hand that killed him.
Phoebe and Fenrir must now navigate their way through their own trials and find a way to survive Helheim and Fenrir's sister Hel as well as keeping clear of the Norns who still wish for Phoebe's death while trying to save Baldur.
I loved the book and all of the twists Amanda put into the book. You definitely need to read Struck and Freed before reading Exiled. These stories are thoroughly enjoyable and Amanda's rewrite of Norse Mythology is believable. If you don't like any deviation of Norse Mythology you may not enjoy parts of the story as Amanda does take liberties, but her understanding of the Mythology shows even when she deviates from the storyline.
Phoebe and Fenrir must now navigate their way through their own trials and find a way to survive Helheim and Fenrir's sister Hel as well as keeping clear of the Norns who still wish for Phoebe's death while trying to save Baldur.
I loved the book and all of the twists Amanda put into the book. You definitely need to read Struck and Freed before reading Exiled. These stories are thoroughly enjoyable and Amanda's rewrite of Norse Mythology is believable. If you don't like any deviation of Norse Mythology you may not enjoy parts of the story as Amanda does take liberties, but her understanding of the Mythology shows even when she deviates from the storyline.
April 2, 2017
This is the third book in the Phoebe Meadows series. I loved this book! The way Amanda describes Asgard and Helheim is amazing! I love the Norse Mythology in this series. In this book Phoebe, Sam, Finn, and a whole lot of Valkyries arrive in Asgard for Finn and Phoebe's trials. Things kinda go the right way and they are exiled to Helheim tasked with the job of bringing back the god of light. I can't wait for the next book so I can find out more about Sam and who her parents really are!
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