As the blood moon rises, the shadow of Ragnarok falls on Uppsala.
With the dark days in Dalr behind them, Hervor and Hofund journey to Grund. Hervor’s focus turns to tracking down the sea kings and taking vengeance, but she soon finds that life in Grund is convoluted. Family grudges, secret alliances, and shady friendships abound in the capital. Everyone has their own agenda, and for some, Hervor is in the way. Hervor will find that surviving Grund is far more complicated than the bloody fields. But a blood moon is rising. Soon, Odin’s shield-maiden must clear the path to her promised future…no matter who must meet Tyrfing to ensure that fate.
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.
Every time I end one of the Road to Valhalla saga books, I feel dazed, like awaking from a deep dream. Melanie Karsak has -like the norns - a unique way of weaving Hervor's story, this grand shield-maiden, warrior, princess, mother and now queen. Stunning and detailed world-building, characters who grow dear to your heart and others you learn to loath or to fear. It is the way of the gods, graciously brought upon the readers by Melanie's pen. Amazing saga, very much recommended. I can't wait to read on and see how Hervor's story unfolds.
This book is emotional! Hevor is finally a well balanced woman who is now showing the world her place and role. There was a lot within these pages both happy and sad. I did cry a bit as I am so attached to these characters, LOL. Time for one last epic joureny/adventure with the crew! Still beyond 5 stars.
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Original Review:
Gahhh... I just freaking love this series and this book... You ever read a story that you can get lost in? One that absorbs you completely to the point that when you finish the last page you have to take a moment to come back to the real world? That is this series for me. From the first page I get lost in this world, became a part of the action and my body and mind become the story.
In this story, we experience, along with Hervor adventure, heartache, travesty, death and action. I loved following along as she continues on her journey. I cannot get enough of the mix of Gods, mortals and the fantasy that is mixed in. I want to give you more but this is truly one of those epic stories that must be experienced to be fully enjoyed. Just know what with this book and this series you are getting the most amazing and detailed and exciting experience a book(s) can give. With only one book left in this series I cannot wait to see how it ends. (thought I will truly never be ready).
Again, this series touches my heart and brings tears to my eyes. I love these characters and feel so close to them as I read. The author has done such a fantastic job of transporting the reader into the days of Vikings. I feel that I am in the hall or on the battlefield with them.
This one really hit hard on so many emotional levels, I lost count of how many times I had to take a second to clear the tears from my eyes. There was a lot of loss in this one, but in the same breath, so much new life gained and my entire heart is invested in this story and its characters.
I absolutely love watching Hervor grow into herself as a person, as a Jarl, as a mother and now as a Queen, she is everything I want in a fmc and I couldn't ask for more.
I won’t lie though, I’m terrified of where we’re going in this story with her new baby. Will all of the bad omens and the Gods warning Hervor to be careful what she wishes for, I’m very nervous for what I’m walking into with the final installment in the series.
I highly recommend this series. The author does a wonderful job of world building based on Scandinavian historical facts and beliefs, intertwined with magic, myth and Norse gods & goddesses. The narrative follows the life of the Shield Maiden as she discovers who she is, and how her life unfolds and is influenced by all the other interesting characters in the series. Gripping story line that kept my interest as she encounters and faces emotional and physical pain, love and and understanding, intrigue, epic battles, family, human nature at its best and worst, and a special wolf. I’m looking forward to the next and final book in the series. The series consists of 5 books, with the final one coming in May 2021.
This book was fantastic. Each character journeys have become better than expected. I love every word. Cant believe the so much death. I really was so sad to find out that so.e of my favorite characters were take To Valhalla. Greatest book yet.
This is the 4th in a series. Start with “Under the Howling Moon” first. 🙂
Hervor has barely fallen into her role as Jarl before she’s whisked away again. This time to Grund, in order to plan her revenge on the sea kings she encountered in her last tale. So many things have changed for Hervor and those around her and it’s hard for them all to keep up. But they do, they do because they know the future depends on them. Depends on their resolve, their strength, their wisdom and the love they all share.
I liked this book. I liked the action and the politics but most of all I liked seeing all the characters grow and develop. I feel like everyone has come so far since the first book. I’m excited to read the next installment but also a little sad because I know Hervor’s tale is close to an end and I genuinely have come to love her and the little family she made. If the loss in this book had me weeping I can only imagine what book 5 will do to me. 😄 That being said, on to the last and final book of Hervor on her road to Valhalla.
Another fabulous book in this series. I love this series. I get so immersed in it when I read it that I feel like I am actually there. If you haven't started this series yet why not?! You do need to read this series from the beginning too much happens in each book to read as a stand alone. Melanie puts you through the emotional gauntlet in this book. We meet new people in this book, revisit old favorites and say goodbye to others. I mean this is about Vikings so of course we will lose people, they do go to war often. If you have enjoyed this series so far so will not be disappointed with this book. The only part that is hard when finishing each book is having to wait for the next one to come out.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion*
Book 4 in the series and Hervor has no boundaries that she will not cross. Tragedy, followed by sorrow; laughs followed by joy; loss followed by new adventure. But will surviving Grund be her most difficult challenge of all? Will the secret alliances, unsavory friendships and family grudges be the final step in her quest?
Another great addition to the Shield-Maiden series. Hervor has experienced it all in this book, Under the Blood Moon, from Action/Adventure to Drama, Laughter, Tragedy and Sorrow, and the beginning of New Life. You just never know what the gods will have in store for Hervor next! Melanie is such a wonderful story teller and you don't want to miss this exciting addition!
Great continuation of the series. Emotion and action blend with a rich setting to create a book that pulls you in and keeps you interested until the very end.
This book definitely had some heart breaking moments, but it was such a good continuation of the series. It’s been a lot of fun seeing both Hervor and Hofund grow as individuals but also in their relationship with one another. Under the Blood Moon brings so many new challenges for them, including their first child and navigating life in Grund.
I really enjoyed the time spent in Grund in this book. All of the political maneuvering and intrigue was something different than the previous books. There’s still plenty of battles for our shield maiden, as well as a host of new characters, both friends and foe. So loving this world and these characters, last book is definitely going to be bitter sweet!
🗡️🗡️ONE THRILLING ADVENTURE🗡️🗡️ Busting bloomers! Melanie unleashes one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, page flipping, block buster, gripping you from the start and holding steady until the end, hurling this bad boy to a whole new level. Thrown into a minefield full of riveting drama, perilous intrigue, ruthless pursuits, vicious enemies, brutal tactics, spiraling danger, swirling suspense and nerve racking situations, kicking this baby into the eye of the storm, blowing it into a tailspin with mind-blowing results, melding this bad boy together seamlessly. Cunning strategies and vicious iniquity descend in a churning vortex of nailbiting encounters and cruel intents, observing the blurred lines, broken barriers and crushed perimeters solidify as limitations are amplified and enforced, knocking down walls and bringing the heat, exposing the devious quirks and defying bents, reaching deep for every ounce of strength in a fierce surge of preservation and determination, exploding this bad boy to life spectacularly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity with enough spice to add an extra kick to the mix. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions creating a colorful backdrop that so rich and lively as though you can just reach out and touch it. Remarkable job Melanie, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
Surviving dealing with her grandfather & Dalr, Hervor is back in Bolmso for a good hard winter. Dreams still come but now show the bone tree with red blooms of blood & complete destruction. She knew the night she took Blomma in she sees the visions too. It is in her blood, the blood of Skaldi. Soon they go to Grund the huge court of her husband filled with intrigue, lies & games. Blomma has chosen to learn from the gothia at their Hut of how to serve the Dsir. From there they set off for Uppsala with other kings & jarls to take it back from invasion of the Sea Kings who murdered the king for the rightful heirs that had to flee when the one crowned himself. To be mortally wounded & fight to live beyond impossibility is a fate & action few have experienced & kept the same body with the aid of Gods & magic. Hervors life was saved along with that of her previously unknown child & has much gratitude. However, when praying to the Gods one has to mind what they ask for & how, especially Odin. You can give yourself bane instead of good bounty. When God driven as Hervor always has been. Excerpt 1: Odin "Hervor, Daughter, I have made you to do my will" Excerpt 2: Skaldi "Sister, be careful. Be watchful, No one from the forests is safe on Njords shores." Hervor, Hervor the Gods use you hard, to be the tool o Odin moreso. In between the joys of life fought for hard expect to feel like a chewtoy as you struggle to hold onto what you have & survive.
My oh my. My poor heart. I feel as if I've known these characters forever. They're imprinted into my heart and mind. This saga has put me through every emotion and made me cry the biggest of ugly tears and this book was no different! I've been left absolutely gutted and am nervously awaiting the conclusion.
Hervor has gone through so many trials and yet she still seeks the will of the gods. They bless her and the take from her. She still stands tall even with the losses she's faced.
I was left with a gaping hole in my heart with a certain character's death that I never expected. This does leave the plot open to more intrigue but I'm so very sad. The last few chapters had me sobbing as the characters processed the loss.
Hofund is an interesting character. I have such mixed feelings about him and I'm not sure if that's due to Hervor’s independent streak or if he's absolutely trustworthy. He really had me suspicious several times.
I have loved this saga and have eagerly awaited each book. This is unforgettable with the lore and the gods interference which makes this riveting. I'm attached to this world and can't wait to go back to it. Melanie Karsak is a unique writer who perfectly stirs the plot while throwing in a dash of danger and excitement.
And another stunning appearance from the shield maiden Hervor
I have loved every book prior to this one and this was no different. I laughed, I cried, and felt for Hervor deeply. The only part of the book I disliked was losing my favorite character. I was listening to the audiobook on my lunch break at work and cried during the whole set of chapters. It was devastating. Melanie really makes you feel like you know her characters personally, it was like losing a close friend. Other then that bit of the story the book was incredible. We get to meet new characters and see what life is like for Hofund when he's home, and we get to witness yet another great battle, even though I think some kings and princes should of been able to help prevent the onslaught. Can and can't wait to read the final book of this series. I feel like a price of me will be missing after.
I have now listened to four of the books in this series and I think I am going to hate it when the fifth one is done. Hervor's life has progressed from being a bastard child (or so she was told by her grandfather) to a jarl and the daughter of a berserker to married to a prince and maybe someday - who knows, I don't want to give it away. A massive battle occurs in this book to free Uppsala and there are deaths which are painful to Hervor. Her dwarven sword is involved in the battle and thankfully it was there. The gods have strange plans for Hervor and her family and I look forward (sort of) to the conclusion.
This book had me hooked from the very first page and I couldn't put it down until I finished it. The story was fast-paced and filled with action, intrigue, and a touch of romance. The main character, Runa, is a fierce and determined shield-maiden who I couldn't help but cheer for as she navigated the challenges and dangers of her world. The author did a fantastic job of creating a complex and endearing protagonist that readers can easily root for. The world-building in this book is fantastic, and I was completely immersed in the Viking-inspired setting. Every detail was so vividly described that I felt like I was right there alongside Runa on her journey.
I honestly thought this book was shorter than it was because it never felt like I was reading. I have not read much Norse mythology but find myself much more drawn in and interested than other mythologies I've read. I became attached to these characters and was surprised when I got to the end of the book because I was so involved! I immediately downloaded the next one and began reading.
One thing I truly enjoy is the language Karsak uses. The dialogue of her characters is mystical, witty, and divinatory all while being blunt and unadorned. I've not read dialogue like it before, and I'm thoroughly enjoying it!
Karsak proves her writing chops again in this continuation of the retelling of Scandinavian saga and mythology.
This entire series has been compelling and so easy to devour, it has been hard to pace myself! I eagerly look forward to reading the rest of the series.
As always, great editing, amazing plot and pacing. Battle scenes that enable the reader to feel like a participant in the battle. Character development and histories have been built from the beginning of the series, so not recommended as a stand alone.
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, with romance and amazing secondary characters. Highly Recommend! 💥💥💥
The Road to Valhalla series is absolutely amazing and a must read!! Shield-Maiden: Under the Blood Moon is the 4th book in this series. Hervor has had a hard road so far and it's not about to let up yet. With Hofund and Ursa at her side, they are planning their revenge and the downfall of the Sea Kings. The plot twists more and tragedy finds Hervor once again. Amazing and well done audio narration. This one left me completely devastated and I'm dying to read the next book!!
I enjoyed this entry into the series. There was a time where the story dragged a little and I lost interest. But Melanie Karsak seemed to understand things were too calm and quiet because it quickly picks up and enveloped my interest. I enjoyed reading about the main character's change into another phase of her life without leaving her previous phase behind. This is still a kick-ass woman. The narration is spot on as always.
I received an audio copy for review; all opinions are my own.
Shield Maiden: Under The Blood Moon Melanie Karsak
Book 4 in this excellent series. Battles have been fought and many great warriors have fallen. Yrsa the Shield Maiden and step mother who raised Hervor. King Garmin has passed. Many hardened and skilled warriors fought and died bravely with honor. Hervor has given birth to a son under the omen of a blood moon. Many trials are still to come. Enjoyed immensely!! My highest recommendation!!
En realidad es un 4.25 I really liked it. These books have been very good so far, however, I have a complaint: there's so much death, I mean, in just one year, more or less, many people died; I know it's normal, but it was people very close to Hervor and I didn't feel right about it. I don't know how to elaborate this, it's just I feel like the author killed so easily. I'm worried about the final book, I hope everything goes well with Hervor. Anyway, I still highly recommend this story.
So much happens in this book. The most enjoyable part is getting to see what happens to these characters. Where life takes them, and then what happens next and next and next. It does get a bit tedious though. There are a couple characters that are always in the verge of doing something, but then don’t. How many times do I have to read that Soren is being sour before he actually commits treason. Or how often Thorolf is about to kiss Hervor before he actually acts inappropriately.
This series has everything going for it...Very strong characters, and epic world-building created this page- turning beauty for all of us to read! Every book I have read has been a treat, and I haven't been disappointed yet with the rich plot and intrigue. So obviously well researched and written, it becomes a page- turning treat for readers looking for more...