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Alfheim Academy #1
Alfheim Academy
A new series from internationally bestselling author S.T. Bende.
Aura Nilssen has spent most of her sixteen years in hiding. As crown princess of Alfheim, her life depends on avoiding the assassins who killed her parents and want to destroy her realm. When hunters corner Aura on Midgard (Earth), she’s immediately evacuated and enrolled at Alfheim Academy—a training ground where telepathic teenagers, daily combat lessons, and communication from beyond is the norm. She attends classes that enhance her energetic abilities, labs that fine tune her mental acuity, and workouts with a supernaturally good looking—and suspiciously evasive—training partner. But it’s what she learns outside the classroom that proves most difficult: as Queen of Alfheim, Aura’s grandmother played a heartbreaking role in the death of Aura’s parents . . . and her iron fisted monarchy is pushing the realm to the brink of extinction. If Aura doesn’t take her grandmother’s crown, the home she’s only just begun to love may be lost forever.
When an unprecedented attack threatens the very heart of Alfheim, Aura has to decide what she’s willing to sacrifice to protect her new home. Her choice may mean the difference between survival and annihilation—not only for Aura, but for the world she’s always been destined to rule.
Aura Nilssen has spent most of her sixteen years in hiding. As crown princess of Alfheim, her life depends on avoiding the assassins who killed her parents and want to destroy her realm. When hunters corner Aura on Midgard (Earth), she’s immediately evacuated and enrolled at Alfheim Academy—a training ground where telepathic teenagers, daily combat lessons, and communication from beyond is the norm. She attends classes that enhance her energetic abilities, labs that fine tune her mental acuity, and workouts with a supernaturally good looking—and suspiciously evasive—training partner. But it’s what she learns outside the classroom that proves most difficult: as Queen of Alfheim, Aura’s grandmother played a heartbreaking role in the death of Aura’s parents . . . and her iron fisted monarchy is pushing the realm to the brink of extinction. If Aura doesn’t take her grandmother’s crown, the home she’s only just begun to love may be lost forever.
When an unprecedented attack threatens the very heart of Alfheim, Aura has to decide what she’s willing to sacrifice to protect her new home. Her choice may mean the difference between survival and annihilation—not only for Aura, but for the world she’s always been destined to rule.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2019
354 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
S.T. Bende
49 books564 followersBefore finding domestic bliss in suburbia, S.T. Bende lived in Manhattan Beach (where she became overly fond of Peet’s Coffee) and studied Shakespeare in Europe… where she became overly fond of McVitie's cookies.
Her Scandinavian heritage and a very patient Norwegian teacher inspired her YA Norse fantasy series' (Viking Academy, Ære Saga, Elsker Saga, and Alfheim Academy). And her deep love of a galaxy far, far away led to her writing children's books for the Star Wars franchise. As an experienced IP writer, she's written multiple books published by Disney-Lucasfilm Press and its licensees, and looks to expand into additional beloved IP projects.
When she's not creating stories, S.T. dreams of skiing on Jotunheim and Hoth.
Find S.T. on her website (www.stbende.com), her newsletter (http://smarturl.it/BendeNewsletter), or on Twitter @stbende.
Her Scandinavian heritage and a very patient Norwegian teacher inspired her YA Norse fantasy series' (Viking Academy, Ære Saga, Elsker Saga, and Alfheim Academy). And her deep love of a galaxy far, far away led to her writing children's books for the Star Wars franchise. As an experienced IP writer, she's written multiple books published by Disney-Lucasfilm Press and its licensees, and looks to expand into additional beloved IP projects.
When she's not creating stories, S.T. dreams of skiing on Jotunheim and Hoth.
Find S.T. on her website (www.stbende.com), her newsletter (http://smarturl.it/BendeNewsletter), or on Twitter @stbende.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 14, 2019
I love the way ST Bende brings us these stories, she weaves brilliant tales that spark our interest in Norse Mythology. I am looking forward to seeing what she brings us next with this series.
I loved the characters in this one. Aura and her friends were entertaining and the dynamics really intrigued me. I would have liked to see more interactions throughout between Viggo and Aura as I felt it just jumped to them dating at the end.
Unlike ST's other books this one took me a little bit longer to get into then usual but it was worth the wait as once I did I really enjoyed and I am excited to see what happens with Aura, Viggo and the Alfheim rehlm.
ARC received In exchange for an honest review from the author
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I loved the characters in this one. Aura and her friends were entertaining and the dynamics really intrigued me. I would have liked to see more interactions throughout between Viggo and Aura as I felt it just jumped to them dating at the end.
Unlike ST's other books this one took me a little bit longer to get into then usual but it was worth the wait as once I did I really enjoyed and I am excited to see what happens with Aura, Viggo and the Alfheim rehlm.
ARC received In exchange for an honest review from the author
https://ilovebookreviewscom.wordpress...
October 28, 2019
4.0. A good read, but probably not my favorite Bende book. Of course, when you are as talented as she is, that’s not really an insult.
Plot:
Aura Nilssen is forced to leave earth and flee to Alfheim. Upon her arrival, she starts attending Alfheim Academy, where she will learn the skills she needs to survive in her new world.
Characters:
Aura is a solid heroine. She starts out kind of quiet and meek, but over the course of the book, she grew into a strong, intelligent woman who fights for her beliefs. Similarly, Viggo starts out to be condescending and secretive, but as the book progresses, we get to see a completely different side of him.
As in most Bende books, the supporting characters are awesome. Aura’s caretaker and mother figure Signy is a great example of a female warrior. She is strong and dependable and bases her decisions upon logic instead of emotion. And Aura’s best friend Elin is loyal and supportive and very protective of Aura.
In the beginning, we are led to believe that Aura’s estranged grandmother or her “mean girl” classmate Britney might be the primary villain, but by the end of the book, it becomes clear bigger dangers are on the horizon.
Writing:
Bende is very talented at world building and squeezing in background information without dragging down the plot. She also manages to fill the pages with action, suspense, heartache, and a tiny bit of romance. In terms of content, the romance is very innocent, but there are a few Norwegian curse words and violent scenes are sprinkled throughout the book.
Bottom Line:
Like Bende’s other books, Alfheim Academy is a quick and easy read. The book has a great plot with extremely likable characters, plenty of action, and just the right amount of romance. And there are no cliffhangers; the current action is tied up nicely by the end of the book. Still, there was something a little off to me. It may have been because Aura is about to overthrow the government at the tender age of 16. (Most of Bende’s heroines are in college.) Or it may have been that the book was slightly political and/or moralizing. Regardless, I am still looking forward to the second book in the series. I can’t wait to how Aura and Viggo’s relationship progresses and how her lightness impacts Alfheim.
Plot:
Aura Nilssen is forced to leave earth and flee to Alfheim. Upon her arrival, she starts attending Alfheim Academy, where she will learn the skills she needs to survive in her new world.
Characters:
Aura is a solid heroine. She starts out kind of quiet and meek, but over the course of the book, she grew into a strong, intelligent woman who fights for her beliefs. Similarly, Viggo starts out to be condescending and secretive, but as the book progresses, we get to see a completely different side of him.
As in most Bende books, the supporting characters are awesome. Aura’s caretaker and mother figure Signy is a great example of a female warrior. She is strong and dependable and bases her decisions upon logic instead of emotion. And Aura’s best friend Elin is loyal and supportive and very protective of Aura.
In the beginning, we are led to believe that Aura’s estranged grandmother or her “mean girl” classmate Britney might be the primary villain, but by the end of the book, it becomes clear bigger dangers are on the horizon.
Writing:
Bende is very talented at world building and squeezing in background information without dragging down the plot. She also manages to fill the pages with action, suspense, heartache, and a tiny bit of romance. In terms of content, the romance is very innocent, but there are a few Norwegian curse words and violent scenes are sprinkled throughout the book.
Bottom Line:
Like Bende’s other books, Alfheim Academy is a quick and easy read. The book has a great plot with extremely likable characters, plenty of action, and just the right amount of romance. And there are no cliffhangers; the current action is tied up nicely by the end of the book. Still, there was something a little off to me. It may have been because Aura is about to overthrow the government at the tender age of 16. (Most of Bende’s heroines are in college.) Or it may have been that the book was slightly political and/or moralizing. Regardless, I am still looking forward to the second book in the series. I can’t wait to how Aura and Viggo’s relationship progresses and how her lightness impacts Alfheim.
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January 23, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/23/2020)! 🎁
October 17, 2019
This is a great YA academy, Norse mythology story. Raised on Midgard (Earth), Aura Nilssen, along with two other girls, have spent their lives hiding from dark elf assassins, while still being typical teenagers. When Aura is attacked all this comes to an end; powers manifest, secrets are revealed, and they are all shipped off back to light realm of Alfheim. The realm is in a bad state, it is constantly being attacked by dark forces, ruled by a monarch with an iron fist, and the “light” is slowly dying. Enrolled in the Alfheim Academy, Aura must not only adapt to change but also try to save the realm as well.
This is a fun read with great characters and a well written storyline. I really enjoyed Aura’s character, she has a strong sense of right and wrong and is determined to help the realms, no matter the cost to her. I also loved that she didn’t instantly fall for the male key, I really don’t like love at first sight themes. This is an interesting, enjoyable story that has characters you will love, action, twists, hints of romance and a suspenseful end. I look forward to reading book two.
This is a fun read with great characters and a well written storyline. I really enjoyed Aura’s character, she has a strong sense of right and wrong and is determined to help the realms, no matter the cost to her. I also loved that she didn’t instantly fall for the male key, I really don’t like love at first sight themes. This is an interesting, enjoyable story that has characters you will love, action, twists, hints of romance and a suspenseful end. I look forward to reading book two.
October 17, 2019
Wow, I gave myself time to gather my thoughts for this book and still no words come to me except AMAZING!
Aura Nilssen's life is about to change and she has to figure out how to process this new change. So she is on Midgard (Earth) until she is attacked! Well things happen that she knows is not suppose to happen for another couple of years. That's not all, before she leaves for Alfheim, her Protector drops some new information. I mean, I did not see that coming. So she goes to Alfheim and then her journey really begins. She meets Viggo and does not know what to make of this guy. While she is there she sees the what the politics have done to Alfheim. So what does she do? Who is trying to kill her? Who can she trust?
There is so much that happens and you do get answers. This book was suspenseful and emotional. It does have a happy ending but with a ciffhanger. I highly recommend this book. You will not be disappointed.
Aura Nilssen's life is about to change and she has to figure out how to process this new change. So she is on Midgard (Earth) until she is attacked! Well things happen that she knows is not suppose to happen for another couple of years. That's not all, before she leaves for Alfheim, her Protector drops some new information. I mean, I did not see that coming. So she goes to Alfheim and then her journey really begins. She meets Viggo and does not know what to make of this guy. While she is there she sees the what the politics have done to Alfheim. So what does she do? Who is trying to kill her? Who can she trust?
There is so much that happens and you do get answers. This book was suspenseful and emotional. It does have a happy ending but with a ciffhanger. I highly recommend this book. You will not be disappointed.
December 20, 2019
S.T. Bende mixes fae, princesses, politics, realms and Norse mythology seamlessly in a unique academy setting. It's quite easy to fall into the fascinating world of Alfheim because Aura is new to it as well! When she journeys there and makes friends -- and crushes -- so do you as the reader. And when danger lurks and the realm is in danger, you fear for it and feel the need to fight for it just like Aura. As always, Bende drives an exciting quest-style fantasy tale with shocking villains, brave protagonists, supportive side-kicks and a dab of romance. Highly recommend for those who love YA, high action, fantasy, academy and mythology.
April 23, 2020
Norse mythology is one of my new favorite subgenre, I have always liked mythology and S.T. Bende doesn't disappoint. I could have read this in one sitting but I wanted to pace myself so I wouldn't have to wait too long for the next book, but I guess in the end I'll still have to wait for the third book if I read the next one as fast as this one.
Aura is a light elf in hiding on Midgard, she is supposed to be among humans until she turns eighteen but an attack prompt an evacuation back to Alfheim 2 years earlier and that's when she discover that she is not only the crown princess of Alfheim, but also the problems in the realm are worse than she could ever have imagined.
I loved Aura and she honestly is one great heroine, there wasn't a single moment that I disliked her actions or thoughts, even when she was wrong about something, she would confront that before she made any big decisions. I liked her friends and hope to see all of them more in the next book. This book has action and leaves us curious about Aura's parents and the extent of her powers and what I really liked about it is that most questions are addressed in this book so it closes very well, leaves enough for the next but not in a situation that leaves you hanging.
Aura is a light elf in hiding on Midgard, she is supposed to be among humans until she turns eighteen but an attack prompt an evacuation back to Alfheim 2 years earlier and that's when she discover that she is not only the crown princess of Alfheim, but also the problems in the realm are worse than she could ever have imagined.
I loved Aura and she honestly is one great heroine, there wasn't a single moment that I disliked her actions or thoughts, even when she was wrong about something, she would confront that before she made any big decisions. I liked her friends and hope to see all of them more in the next book. This book has action and leaves us curious about Aura's parents and the extent of her powers and what I really liked about it is that most questions are addressed in this book so it closes very well, leaves enough for the next but not in a situation that leaves you hanging.
January 10, 2025
I hadn't expected to like this book much, but it was surprisingly alright. I could really do without the misogyny, especially against poor Britney, but I was really surprised to how...Actually loving the book was? Aura is a flawed girl, but her heart is in the right place. Definitely worth reading if this is your kinda thing, since you can read book one for free. I myself might end up reading the other two, if I find the time.
May 22, 2020
Fae & Norse mythology, what more could you ask for?!?
Alfheim Academy was sooo good!!
Fae & Norse mythology, what more could you ask for?!? The descriptive way S.T. Bende writes immerses you in this wonderful world of Alfheim Academy, filled with action, adventure & snarky comments that make you lol along the way. Can’t wait to find out what happens next in Dark Faerie.
Alfheim Academy was sooo good!!
Fae & Norse mythology, what more could you ask for?!? The descriptive way S.T. Bende writes immerses you in this wonderful world of Alfheim Academy, filled with action, adventure & snarky comments that make you lol along the way. Can’t wait to find out what happens next in Dark Faerie.
July 27, 2020
Awesome!
This is a great book! Self-discovery, action, adventure, fantasy, good vs evil, and romance. Great storytelling and character development. This book is the beginning of a series, but perfect even as a standalone with no cliffhanger ending forcing you to buy the next book.Recommended, recommended, recommended!
This is a great book! Self-discovery, action, adventure, fantasy, good vs evil, and romance. Great storytelling and character development. This book is the beginning of a series, but perfect even as a standalone with no cliffhanger ending forcing you to buy the next book.Recommended, recommended, recommended!
April 14, 2020
Another great one!
Another great book!!
Cannot wait to read the rest, loved the Elsker series! Love Norse mythology has a history major focused in myth and ancient history these books are fun to read!!
Another great book!!
Cannot wait to read the rest, loved the Elsker series! Love Norse mythology has a history major focused in myth and ancient history these books are fun to read!!
June 4, 2020
Love!!
I am so in love with this book. I am exhausted with books that toss teens into reverse harem and intense sexual situations. This was perfect and I love the storyline and characters
I am so in love with this book. I am exhausted with books that toss teens into reverse harem and intense sexual situations. This was perfect and I love the storyline and characters
January 3, 2022
After reading this book, I bought books 2 and 3. I need to know what happens next. This book had a beginning, middle and end, with no cliffhanger. And when I’ve read other books written like this but were boring, I wouldn’t buy any more books in that series. But I’m excited to read book 2.
May 22, 2023
Faeries and Elves
Such a fun story! Aura is a key, a light elf needed to protect Alfheim. But she is so much more. As she struggles to come to grips with her full identity she vows to protect her people and save her realm, even if it means challenging the queen.
Such a fun story! Aura is a key, a light elf needed to protect Alfheim. But she is so much more. As she struggles to come to grips with her full identity she vows to protect her people and save her realm, even if it means challenging the queen.
January 2, 2024
I enjoyed her Norse God series and was excited to see another series. It was pretty well written and engaging. Unfortunatly she has embraced the same sex agenda. WhiIe a clean read I cannot recommend it.
December 23, 2019
This first book in its series is amazing. I am looking forward to this rest of the series.
May 15, 2020
I loved it.
This was a really exciting story. I loved the characters and their world is amazing. I really look forward to reading the next book in this series.
This was a really exciting story. I loved the characters and their world is amazing. I really look forward to reading the next book in this series.
May 20, 2020
Fun Series
I really love this series. The main character is awesome and all of the characters around her make you fall in love even more.
I really love this series. The main character is awesome and all of the characters around her make you fall in love even more.
May 24, 2020
This was a fun unique tale to read.
July 13, 2020
Worth it.
Ok, I'm slow getting to this story & series. But I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
And I really enjoy this author's works. On to book two!!
Ok, I'm slow getting to this story & series. But I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
And I really enjoy this author's works. On to book two!!
May 22, 2021
I liked it.
Read
July 14, 2021Near story
It took me a while to really get into this story and it wasn't til over half way through that I started to really enjoy it.
It took me a while to really get into this story and it wasn't til over half way through that I started to really enjoy it.
April 9, 2022
I think I started this book in January and finally finished it in April. Finished it. For me personally, I am content to stop here in the series.
February 23, 2023
Good Read
Got this book for free download from Amazon and I'm so glad I took the leap after reading the synapsis. It's a great YA book, easy read, and a page turner.
Got this book for free download from Amazon and I'm so glad I took the leap after reading the synapsis. It's a great YA book, easy read, and a page turner.
March 26, 2023
Fantastik book. Free on Amazon.com riget Now. Fantastic start on a new Series
April 10, 2023
Captivating
Took me a bit to get into it but when I did it was very captivating. Going to look for book 2 now.
Took me a bit to get into it but when I did it was very captivating. Going to look for book 2 now.
December 29, 2020
I love this author! Two thumbs up!!
February 19, 2020
Enjoyed it
I love Bende's books. This one was great. I had a hard time in the beginning to get into the story and find a relationship with Aura. But about half way through I started to feel the connection and enjoy the story. Not sure if I'll continue the series, but not disappointed!
I love Bende's books. This one was great. I had a hard time in the beginning to get into the story and find a relationship with Aura. But about half way through I started to feel the connection and enjoy the story. Not sure if I'll continue the series, but not disappointed!
December 1, 2019
I absolutely loved the Viking Academy, but this one was a bit of a let down. Still, it was quick and fun to read.
February 9, 2020
This was a fun YA book.
The story starts out in a typical high school setting and then quickly changes as the teenagers in hiding are found and are in danger. To continue escaping the danger, the teens are brought to Asgard to a training facility where they are back in a school of different sorts. Our main characters meet new friends and discover old enemies. I really enjoyed the Perfekt Order series and the Elsker series and this looks like a good beginning to another great series.
The story starts out in a typical high school setting and then quickly changes as the teenagers in hiding are found and are in danger. To continue escaping the danger, the teens are brought to Asgard to a training facility where they are back in a school of different sorts. Our main characters meet new friends and discover old enemies. I really enjoyed the Perfekt Order series and the Elsker series and this looks like a good beginning to another great series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews