Under the thunder moon, the war-horn will sound, and Odin’s Valkyrie will rise.
Reunited with Hofund, and with Bolmsö safe from its enemies, Hervor takes her place as jarl. But the All-Father has bigger plans for his favorite shield-maiden. When Hervor learns that Jarl Bjartmar has vowed vengeance on Leif, she knows she must stand by her cousin. To free Dalr, they must enlist the help of old allies, former enemies, and a warrior-priest called the Reindeer King. Together, they will fight to free Dalr.
New York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
And this series just keeps getting better! But I feel that this is the book where you can stop reading since everything seems to wrap up nicely. This one actually made me tear up a few times and goosebumps another few times.
Love it when I find a hidden gem! Loving this series that I randomly found on KU!!
Kick ass female protagonists Family drama Political drama Amazing found family All the historical fantasy vibes Cried a bit Laughed a bit Norse folklore Great pacing!!!
Re-read review: I laughted, I cried, I felt and I cheered. Still a wonderful series. This book is about Hervor getting the life she "should" have had and making life better for all. I always want more Gods and the new Raindeer King was a hoot! 5 stars once again.
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Original Review: This book and this series is a journey into the life of one amazing lady. Her trials, tribulations, heart and fears. I have loved every word and every page. This book takes place directly after book two so I highly recommend reading in order. In this story we get some answers and some new adventures. I really want to talk all about the adventure of this story but no spoilers, LOL. The author has a magical way about her writing and the characters come to life on every page. The mixture between "real" characters and viking Gods really ignites the page in that age old quest between the human needs and wants and the God's wants and desires. I cannot say enough about this story, this series or this author. This is definitely a one click story and I highly recommend it to all readers looking for a grand adventure. Rich in culture, strong characters well thought out plots, Gods, Vikings, Danger, Heat, Passion, Heart...
I am definitely enjoying this series! I am loving following Hervor’s journey and her relationship with Hofund, but I’m also getting super invested in the secondary characters, in particularly Yrsa, Eydis, and Leif. The Reindeer King was a super interesting addition to this book and I’m hoping we’ll see more of him in the future. This book had more battles and adventures as Hervor confronted parts of her past with Hofund and their friends at their side. This was definitely an action-packed addition to the series and I’m looking forward to the next part of the story.
So much precious lost but so much gained. Still the dreams continue on, now showing Hervors mother Svafa, terrified in front of a holy tree with blood covered hands, then to babes grown larger with important information. But in life there can be honey cakes with ale & mead and good meat along with the losses. The fruits of life & being a woman she tastes & enjoys fully along with the hardships. Now officially made a jarl after adopting a daughter she has to wait for marriage to her intended & desired because of the signs read by the gothar it must happened in the thunder moon. (Probably May & because he beloved is a son of Thor.) First she must go home with her cousin, to her mother & the seat her cousin Leif shown rule one day. The sea spray in winter while in a ship riding the waves won't make your skin dewy & talk of it so is a secret tongue in cheek joke. It feels good if you are hot but always with a tiny to slap level sting to keep you awake. Going back to home you were raised can always be hard for many as the worst things to fight are the ghosts. Hervor's grandfather, Jarl Bjartmar, had hated her from birth & still wanted nothing but death of her as now same for his nephew Leif. For some it is hard to kill a poisonous adder if of blood. So much damage to others as well as self would be justice braining & making an ornament of it. When old blood runs true such are the warrior of sagas that have vision added. As long as Hervor holds Tyrfing she cannot die according to legends. All remembered dwarven weapons held methods of operations & bad curses. Tyrfing was not the only sword or weapon created by the famous dwarves. There are books based on remaining sagas devoted to each one woven in their tellers stories. Oh, so blessed to meet another true sister of the soul, so few & always a joy as bright as a solar flare to come across & talk to one or even maybe more, be friends. Thor roared & slammed his hammer as the Wolf moon shone at the Yule Blot with ancient sword & revered hammer traded.
Content Warnings: Blood/gore, violence, body horror, war themes, death, grief, sexism, sexual harassment, nightmares, and pregnancy. Mention of: sexual assault, rape, child abuse, parental abandonment, infidelity, death in childbirth [of mother and child], pedophilia, and child brides.
I am so happy I stumbled on this series because the way Karsak writes is phenomenal. It’s so easy to devour each book in this series as Hervor continues on her journey to discover who she is and where she fits in the world. Watching Hervor find her own inner strength and surround herself with people who build her up and support her brings me joy.
Here in book three, we see a strong jarl in Hervor as she takes measures to protect her land and people. We also see her gather forces to return home and face the grandfather who shunned and demeaned her at every turn. Hervor will have to remember that she isn’t the same girl who left Dalr just over a year ago.
With only two more books in the series, I’m excited to see where else Hervor’s journey takes her as she continues to grow her found family, make new allies, and explore more of who she is and who she wants to be. Hoping to read the last two books next month and then jump into the other Shield-Maiden series Karsak has written.
If you’re a fan of Norse lore and Viking stories I highly recommend checking out this series! Although there is some romance within the book it’s definitely historical fantasy and is FTB [fade to black aka all sexual encounters occur off-page]. This series is a fantastic story based on the old Norse saga of Hervarar.
⚔️⚔️ONE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY⚔️⚔️ Buckle up! Melanie cranks this baby up with this thrilling installment, delivering one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, block buster, blasting this jewel to life flawlessly. Wound, bound and tightly banded, exposing the crazy quirks and defying bents, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never envisioned. Disadvantages are amplified and exploited, unmasking all the harsh facts, deals and debacles, igniting a fearless determination with such exuberance and vigor, propelling this jewel to a whole new level. Bungling through a minefield of daring drama, riveting intrigue, unveiled revelations, escalating danger and spiraling suspense, maneuvering through the cunning manipulations of damning secrets and dark deceptive actions, hooking you from the start and reeling you in for the duration, blasting this baby to life spectacularly. The characters, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming into formidable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and vivid descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Melanie, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
We get to see Hervor come face to face with her grandfather and finally give him the comeuppance that he deserved, and I have just been waiting for this moment since ten pages into book one. It was everything, and I love Hervor all the more for it. And Svafa. This woman is amazing and so flipping badass. I really hope that we get to see more of her and Yrsa’s story come into play now that they’ve moved from Dalr into Bolosmo.
I also loved seeing Leif and Eydis’ little family bloom. And Hervor and Hofund with their little Blomma. The little sentimental and cute moments in this book are so well placed, and there are just the right amount of them to kind of keep the battles and politics in balance with the lives of all of the characters.
Seeing everyone flourish in this one was wonderful. Oh, and Hella and her Jarl! Ugh. My heart is just so invested in these books. But I also love the wars and the battle sequences. They’re so well done and keep me on the edge of my seat. I can’t say enough good things, and as always, I can’t wait to get into the next one.
This is the 3rd installment in a series. Start with “Under the Howling Moon” first. 🙂
Only recently coming to know the people on the island of Bolmsö, Hervor is now expected to be their Jarl. Following her heart, she does the best she can to fill Arngrim’s shoes and make right the wrongs of Bjartmar. Things come to a head in this volume, for everyone. Leif, Eydis, Yrsa, Svafa, Hofund, Ragal. Relationships bloom, grudges are handled, revenge is plotted, lives are turned upside down. But I guess that’s what happens when you associate with those who are touched by the gods.
This was good! I enjoyed it a lot. It had less action and more politics than the first two books but it was necessary. Book 3 tied up most of the loose endings from books 1 & 2. Even though it was a little slower in terms of action I still felt the pacing of this book was great. It still kept me engaged and absorbed. On to book 4!
I am not going to spoil it. There are a few woman who train restlessly - I say the crossfit woman's champ is perhaps as strong as an average fit USMC infantryman. But an officer who passes Infantry Officer School or a army/Marine/other who passes Ranger school will be stronger, faster, and have more endurance than even the crossfit lady champ. (and it seems they did indeed put some weight on the scale - lessen the pack- for those two ladies who supposedly are now Rangers)
Basicly the ideal of a Shieldmaiden is silly. Were there female fighters- maybe- were they on boats with men- ha ha ha - maybe as playthings (Historically vikngs had slaves- and no I am not endorsing slavery or raiding and killing everyone in monasteries which vikings also did)
So this story- like the fun TV show is fine - but in the end silly wishful thinking so no more stars dues to fake wishful history story
Now that Hervor and Hofund and Leif are back together, it's time to fight for what's right. Hervor is stronger and coming into her own now. She knows that she wants to protect her people and the people she left behind. It is time to get Hervor's mother and help the people of Dalr. It is a battle and a journey to accomplish this. Along with babies on the way and Gods who play their own game. This book is another epic adventure that will have so immersed you will think it's happening in the real world and will be hard to leave when the book is done. You do have to read the first 2.5 books before this one.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion*
Yet again, Karsak weaved a tale full of adventure for our beloved characters. Yet again, I devoured the novel not realizing how quickly I was reaching the end. I enjoy trying to figure out the meaning behind the dreams and visions the characters experience.
We were introduced to some new characters in this book that will become more prominent, and for that I am excited. The mythology and magic that are interwoven really appeals to me and doesn’t seem outlandish or overdone, but is in fact, pretty realistic when you think about ancient societies that are so close with nature and spirituality. It doesn’t take a stretch of the imagination to believe what’s happening in Her or’s story. I’m, yet again, excited for the next book!
Such a sweeping tale of epic proportions! Hervor finally see's herself taking on the roles that she was always meant to have. She's so much stronger than when we began this adventure beside her. I love all of the spectacular mythology that is a central part throughout. I love seeing the gods at play and the Norns weaving and reweaving. Each character possessed such interesting traits and even the bad guys where easy to dislike. If you love the Norse gods, true love, having all of your emotions in play, with phenomenal storytelling, this is for you! I kept holding my breath waiting for the next bad thing to come along, but this edition just kept surprising me and I really did enjoy it!
This series is consistently stunning. Every time the plot becomes clear, there is another vision, another thread of fate woven. Tantalizingly unpredictable, yet with the satisfying undercurrent that Hervor is favored by the Gods and even when faced by apparent disaster she will overcome through her wisdom and courage.
Very well written, with only a couple copyediting errors (which most people wouldn't even notice). Karsak's writing truly transports the reader to another time and place.
R for violence and disturbing imagery and themes. Mild sex, no language.
Nothing is ever easy. Just when you think that Hervor, who has finally taken her place as leader, is set for some peace and quiet, along comes another problem. This time in the form of vengeance being threatened against her cousin. And despite the desire for some time to reflect, she knows she needs to free Dalr. Will she be able to enlist the help of old allies and former enemies? Just how will the introduction of the warrior-priest (Reindeer King) add to the mix of strengths she commands? More importantly, will they free Dalr?.
Another incredible instalment of the adventures of Hervor. This third book really pulls everything forward and together at the same time. All our favourite characters are coming into their own, righting wrongs, forming alliances, and generally striving to make the world a better place for everyone. So much happens in this book, I do not want to spoil anything, but I highly recommend reading the series from the beginning. The journey will continue, and I for one cannot wait to see what happens next.
I was given an Audible copy of this book for review; all opinions are my own. This third entry in The Road to Valhalla is just as exciting and engaging as the previous entries. I love Norse mythology and this book takes you into the lives of the people who lived it. The main is awesome and well-rounded as this book explores her other desires. As usual, the narrator is awesome, the accent so perfect. In this particular one though, she doesn't give enough emotion to the cheers and chant. After the ending of this one, I'm interested in seeing what happens next.
In this third book, we don’t get just filler of a middle book but more intrigue, battle and romance. All this while delving more into the characters and history of the lands and peoples. Hervor, the female heroine, leads the way fearlessly and with compassion. Everything from gods to wolves and even reindeer work together, tied together masterfully in a tale you won’t be able to put down, even with an occasional twist from Loki to keep you on your toes. Read this today!
Sometimes you read stories that are so beautifully written that it’s hard to come up with words to describe them. I was an avid fan of Greek and Roman mythology when I was only 10, so I love this story surrounded by Norse mythology. The description that comes to mind is that this series is like listening to a wonderful piece of music where the harmony and cadence is captivating and makes you feel so good you don’t want the music to end. This series is such a pleasure to read! Can’t wait for the next book.
I thought ploughing through the first two books would be enough for today, but apparently I was wrong and book three was devoured soon after. The journey of Hervor has a lot of ups and downs, but she never looses her faith in the Gods, or her companions, so it is more upbeat than not - even when things are going to hell in a handbasket. Will be starting book four tomorrow, and have every intention of finishing the series asap. A great uncomplicated historical fantasy to relax with.
The story takes off where it left. I love these books because they don't leave on a cliffhanger, but they do on a HFN, which I am okay with.
I wish the person Hervor picked as a romantic partner was more involved in the story. To me he is just a figure, there is not much history there, if he died I would feel no emotion towards it. I think there should be more interactions with those two. Like what are the little things that Hervor loves about him? They have never fought, like not even playfully, its a dull relationship.
I am absolutely loving this series. Hervor is a strong woman who has had a dismal childhood but in this book, her life really starts coming together. I have been listening to this series and have already downloaded the last two. I am looking forward to more tales of the Shield Maiden Hervor now jarl and her foster mother Ursa and her married life. I love the way the gods take an active part in everyone's lives in this story and I have always enjoyed Norse mythology so these tales are just perfect.
I have read the first 3 books in this trilogy and so far, they have made me angry, happy, sad, laugh, given me chills, excitement, tears of sadness and tears of joy. The details have painted such a vivid vision of all that is happening that makes it seem like like I'm watching a movie. I have so enjoyed reading these books and am getting ready to start book #4. I am glad that I don't have to wait, before the next book comes out. The author has done an awesome job of writing these books.
This series reminds me of some of the old school sweeping sagas I read 20 years. I do love those tales where you spend the time on the details and the plotting and the relationship building. It does mean that sometimes you realise you’ve read 100 pages and nothing has really happened, but in this kind of story it’s acceptable 😂 When you hit the action it’s great. The side characters are well fleshed out and interesting, and you just want to see Hervor sort out all of the problems of the world (even if she’s sometimes a little bit unbelievably talented).
The characters are well-developed and easy to root for, especially the fierce and independent shield-maiden at the centre of the story. The plot moves at a brisk pace, and kept me hooked from beginning to end. The writing style is engaging and easy to read, making this book a perfect choice for fans of historical fiction and fantasy alike. While I would have liked a bit more depth in some areas, overall I found it to be a captivating read. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a thrilling adventure with strong female characters and a touch of magic.
This is my first book by this author and I am thoroughly impressed. The story is super entertaining and thrilling. The FMC Hervor is a force to be reckoned with. She is a kick-ass, smart, fierce and self sufficient FMC. The story flows seamlessly and it gets your attention from the get go. I am so glad I stumbled upon this series. This is one of those stories that is like embarking on a wild adventure, full of mystery, action, twists and turns, romance and amazing secondary characters. Highly Recommend! 💜🩷💜
As I follow close on Hervor's steps in this new installment of The Road to Valhalla, everything around the shield-maiden falls into place. This lady knows her job, now as Jarl on Bolmsö, she regains her past. her rightful place and her story. Also, with her destiny revowen by the Norns, she gets back the people she loves most and who love her most. Beautifully written, full of magic and thunder and love and war, Melanie Karsak outdoes herself once again. Odin. All-Father. Thank you.
Completely Addictive!! Shield-Maiden: Under the Thunder Moon is the third book in the Road To Valhalla series. Hervor continues her journey, discovering her family, secrets her grandfather has kept from her and what destiny the gods have in store for her. It's not an easy path, this story is packed full of action, tragedy and so much more!! I love the audio narration. This amazing norse tale keeps you on the edge of your seat and I cant wait to see the rest of Hervor's story unfold!