The Throne of Ice and Ash

The Runewar Saga #1

by J.D.L. Rosell

A throne in peril, a tragic betrayal, two heirs struggling to save their land, and a prophesied war threatening to engulf the world...

Bjorn, youngest heir to the Mad Jarl of Oakharrow, has always felt more at ease with a quill than a sword. Yet when calamity strikes his family, he must draw a blade and lead a company of warriors into the cold, deadly mountains in pursuit of a mysterious foe. Though he seeks vengeance, an ancient power stirs within him, and the whispers of prophecy beckon him toward an ominous destiny...

Aelthena, Bjorn's sister, was born with the aptitude to lead, and she's eager to prove it. But her society's rules for women, and her love for her brother, restrain her efforts to command. As she walks the fine line between ambition and virtue, enemies of both mankind and myth rise against Oakharrow's throne, and even her allies question her right to rule...

A harrowing tale of the struggle for power and the dawning heroes who rise above it, The Throne of Ice & Ash is Book 1 of the Norse high fantasy, coming of age series The Runewar Saga. Fans of A Song of Ice and Fire, The Lord of the Rings, and The Wheel of Time won't want to miss this new sweeping epic fantasy!

Genres: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Unfinished, Ebooks, Coming Of Age

420 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 10, 2021

About the author

***ANNOUNCEMENT: Shadow of Legends, Book 1 in the Dragonforged Saga, is funding now on Kickstarter! Look it up to read more about your favorite characters from Legend of Tal.***

J.D.L. Rosell was swept away on a journey when he stepped foot outside his door and into The Hobbit. He hasn't stopped wandering since.

In his writing, he tries to recapture the wonder, adventure, and poignancy that captivated him as a child. His explorations have taken him to worlds set in over twenty novels and six series, which include Dragonforged, Ranger of the Titan Wilds, Legend of Tal, The Runewar Saga, and The Famine Cycle.

When he's not off on a quest, Rosell enjoys his newfound hobby of archery and older pastimes of hiking and landscape photography. But every hobbit returns home, and if you step softly and mind the potatoes, you may glimpse him curled up with his wife and two cats, Zelda and Abenthy, reading a good book or replaying his favorite video games.

* * * * *

Books by J.D.L. Rosell:

DRAGONFORGED
1. Shadow of Legends (Late 2026 release)

RANGER OF THE TITAN WILDS
1. The Last Ranger
2. The First Ancestor
3. The Hidden Guardian
4. The Wilds Exile
5. The Titan Revenant (March 2026 release)

LEGEND OF TAL
1. A King's Bargain
2. A Queen's Command
3. An Emperor's Gamble
4. A God's Plea
A Battle Between Blood (Novella)

THE RUNEWAR SAGA
1. The Throne of Ice & Ash
2. The Crown of Fire & Fury
3. The Stone of Iron & Omen
Book 4 TBA

THE FAMINE CYCLE - Available as a complete box set
1. Whispers of Ruin
2. Echoes of Chaos
3. Requiem of Silence
Secret Seller (Prequel)
The Phantom Heist (Novella)

GODSLAYER RISING - Available as a complete box set
1. Catalyst
2. Champion
3. Heretic

Reviews

[Nick Borrelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.D.L. Rosell is one of those authors who continually impresses me book by book. I'm a huge fan of his Legend of Tal series, which gave me the warm and fuzzy feels like I was coming home to the fantasy reads that enchanted me growing up. When I heard that he was launching a new series that was based in Norse-mythology, I couldn't wait to check it out and see if he was able to pull it off. Well, it didn't take me long into reading this book to come to the conclusion that this series may be even better than his previous one.

I really connected with the two main characters in this book, the siblings Bjorn and Aelthena. Part of the reason is that their emotions come through so well as they struggle to unite their fellow clans and also repair the fracture that has occurred within their own family. Bjorn has been thrust into a role that he does not want and Aelthena wants more than anything in the world. However, they are both hamstrung by the laws and rules set down by generations of clan-members before them. To see how they both rely on each other and put aside their own ambitions is truly inspiring and shows their close bond, even if they drive each other mad at times.

This world is so rich with Norse legend and history that I was reminded a lot of a book that I just read, The Shadow of the Gods by John Gwynne. There are also slight glimmers of the Runemark books by Joanne M. Harris. Yet this book also feels totally unique in its own right and relies on a strong and original story to propel the action while using Norse myths as the backbone. There were times when I found myself mesmerized by the amount of knowledge that Rosell put forth and it is obvious that he has done his homework without it seeming like info dumps.

As with any good Norse-influenced tale, the action in THE THRONE OF ICE & ASH is aplenty and bloody. Those who enjoy battles and military tactics will find lots to revel in here. There is also a great deal of scheming involved in the story, which I personally love being a huge fan of fantasy with lots of political intrigue and backstabbing. This is another reason why I felt that this book had more depth than just a simple retelling based on Norse history/mythology.

Lastly, the bitterly cold and harsh setting was the perfect (and appropriate) setting for the events that lead up to the final few chapters. This is definitely an ending that, although leaving the door open and setting up the next entry, has one heck of a finish that is completely satisfying and breathtaking. That being said, it still made me want to immediately have the next one in my hands, that's how much Rosell tantalizes you in those last few pages.

THE THRONE OF ICE & ASH is such a fantastic read that manages to achieve an air of originality among a myriad of recent Norse-inspired fantasy releases. Please do not be turned off if you feel like you've had your fill of Viking fantasy lately, as this one deserves to be read and enjoyed entirely on its own merits. Do yourself a favor and pick up this first book in The Runewar Saga. I was thrilled and entertained beyond measure and suspect that many readers will also feel the same.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://www.bookwormblues.net/2021/05...

I’ve recently had a boatload of Nordic-inspired fantasy come my way for editing. As a person who has never really thought, “WOO! NORDIC-FLAVORED FANTASY! YES!” it’s really been a thing I’ve been adjusting to. On a purely editorial side of things, I will say that Nordic fantasy, and fantasy heavily featuring dragons seems to be in right now. Those aren’t always found in the same books, but as far as that side of my business is going, those two elements seem to be occurring in the books I edit far more frequently now than they have in the past.

On a purely personal basis, I’ve learned I really enjoy Nordic-inspired fantasy.

Throne of Ice & Ash is one of those books that had me thinking, “ah, I know how this is going to go” when I started editing it, and by the end of it I was reeling. “I DID NOT EXPECT THAT” I yelled at my husband at one point.

Set in a secondary world, there is an interesting marriage of Medieval and Nordic elements at play here. We have ruling families, inheritance at stake, and conflicts with surrounding territories. Here the king (Jarl, as he is called) is mad, and his eldest son is set to inherit and is acting in the father’s stead. Tragedy strikes early on, leaving Bjorn, the surviving son, on the path to inherit his father’s mantle. Bjorn, however, isn’t suited to that particular job. A scholar, quiet and reclusive, he’s more fit for study and quiet work than ruling a people. His sister, however, does have the temperament and aptitude for such a task. The problem is, she happens to be the wrong gender.

And so early on, we are thrust into this world of complicated politics, madness, inheritance, where instability is made even more dramatic through an act of, what could be considered, terrorism. At this point, the threads split. Bjorn leaves, exiles himself from his kingdom and gives his rights to rule to his sister in his stead. Up into the high mountains he goes, to discover what he can from the far-flung tribes of the high reaches.

Althea, on the other hand, stays put, trying to navigate treacherous political waters while mourning a family she’s lost and trying to find out who did this and why. Politics and intrigue are thick in her storyline. As a woman, she is not only fighting for her family and her rights, but she’s fighting against a group of people who see her as less due to her gender. Her battles take place on multiple levels and depths, in numerous different ways.

Both characters are almost complete opposites. Bjorn is quiet, uncertain, unwilling to take control, and this is something he struggles with throughout his storyline. Here, we have a flawed character who makes mistakes, and his mistakes are shockingly human, as are the results of said mistakes. I suppose I can say Bjorn was, first and foremost, human. He was a man I could actually picture living somewhere in the world, with complex problems and a personality not quite suited to them. I loved how Rosell wasn’t afraid to take this character, flaws and all, and push him past his comfort zone. I also loved how Rosell wasn’t afraid to allow his character to stumble and fall. In fact, I think characters like Bjorn aren’t common enough in fantasy. His personal arc and evolution throughout the book was fantastically well done. As Bjorn searches for the answers to his own mystery, he also, in a way, finds himself. It’s not easy, and it’s not painless, but the path from who he was at the beginning of the book, to who he ended up being at the end was masterful.

Althea was a character who frustrated me and intrigued me in equal measure. A woman who has the capability and temperament to rule in a male-dominated world is a tricky thing to write, and when I started reading her storyline, I knew she’d frustrate me, and I knew she’d need to frustrate me. Again, Rosell isn’t afraid to make his characters make poor choices, stumble, and occasionally fall. Althea was interesting because she’s hemmed in by tradition and expectation, she also has all these family connections, and she’s in an incredibly weakened position from which to navigate these treacherous waters. Through her, we see more of Oakharrow, more of the politics, and the immediate surrounding area. We get an view of the culture, the warring factions, the pressure from both inside and outside, and this woman who is trying to hold it all together in spite of the fact that everything has come some dramatically undone.

Alone and isolated, despite the fact that she’s surrounded by people, Althea was a captivating character to follow.

Intricate and detailed, with a world that is as nuanced as the characters that inhabit it, this is an incredible start to a series. It’s clear that Rosell plans to take this series in a few different directions. I got the feeling that the events that transpire here are really just a snowball, and he’s starting to roll it down the mountain. By the end of the book, there are hints at the wider world, at places beyond the reach of what was covered here, at peoples and cultures that we haven’t encountered yet. How it will all relate to Althea and Bjorn, I can only guess, but it’s really fun for me to sit here, and ponder what will happen next.

There were several points in this book where the plot took unexpected turns, and quite frankly, I didn’t expect the ending of either storyline, which thrilled me to bits. From this point on, I’m not sure what I expect. This book was a wild ride, and Rosell set himself a formidable task of not only creating this sprawling secondary world, but a plot and characters to fit it. As the start of a new series, A Throne of Ice & Ash was incredibly strong, extremely gripping, and impossible to put down.

I can’t wait to see where he takes me next.

[Justin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Throne of Ice & Ash the first in a new Norse inspired series by Rosell and the first book of his that I have read, although I am pretty sure that it is not going to be last. This also marks the first time I have ever buddy read something with my wife, Victoria, who is joining me on this tour stop with her review below!

Though she had not seen a war, she had seen the broken men they left in their wake.

I have seen a bit of discussion lately about prologues and whether they enhance a story or drag it down and, while I could probably write a while essay on the subject, let me just say that this one kicks things off in the most perfect way possible. We are quickly introduced to the setting that the entirety of this story takes place, a cold and harsh Norse inspired north, where the near-inhospitable mountains are as wont to kill you as the creatures that roam it. Impressively, the setting isn’t merely used as dressing for the stage upon which the story is told, but as a worldbuilding tool that enriches the story itself. For instance, the Jarl of Oakharrow’s badge of office is the Winter Mantle, a cloak of greatbear fur, which makes perfect sense in the context of where the story takes place. A lesser storyteller may have just said he wore a crown, or wielded a sceptre, perhaps, but it’s little choices like this that grounds the story in a believable world.

Outside of the obvious introduction to the setting, the prologue does something else that really impressed me, which was introduce us immediately to something that we wouldn’t actually see again until much later in the book. Similar to how A Game of Thrones introduced the white walkers at the very beginning of the first book and then forgot them for several books, so too is an inhuman force introduced at the very beginning of A Throne of Ice & Ash and then only hinted at for a long while after. I really enjoyed this gradual build-up to the reveal and that small glimpse into the supernatural at the start had me waiting for the shoe to drop the whole time and when that thread was finally picked back up it was wholly satisfying.

Legends were coming alive before him. The least he could do was witness it.

Speaking of reveals, the plot itself is a series of switchbacks that kept me reeling and utterly captivated the entire time. From the onset, we are thrown into the deep end with everyone else, the author content to let us drown with our protagonists rather than take a passive role as overseer. Though our two main characters and points of views are brother and sister, their personalities and the things that drive them couldn’t be farther separated from one another. Aelthena is head-strong and capable, a born leader, the only problem being that she was born into a world that believes a woman’s place is by the hearth. Bjorn on the other hand is the meek, scholarly type, more suited for study than warfare and wants nothing less than the throne he was born to inherit. After their home is destroyed and the peace and safety of their people is threatened, Aelthena and Bjorn are forced to do what they can to secure their people’s future. The fact that each of them was thrust into roles that they either were unprepared for (in Bjorn’s case) or simply unwelcome in (in Aelthena’s) was really interesting and brought a level of conflict to the story that kept things always moving in interesting directions.

The rest of the cast unfortunately proved to be a little flat. So much so that when several of them were lost, I didn’t really feel one way or another about it. As much as this is a sweeping epic with events of world shattering consequence, it is ultimately also a very intimate story of two young siblings trying to do their best to fill the roles that have suddenly become vacant. One, a leader of men in a world that says she isn’t good enough, and the other, a leader of men trapped in a mind that says he isn’t good enough. Overall, I really loved The Throne of Ice & Ash and I am really looking forward to reading more of Rosell’s work. If it is anywhere near as good as this then I already know I am in for one hell of a ride.

Dreams are worth piss, boy. The strength in your blood is what forges the world.

[ShannaBanana✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I admit this took me a little while to get into but I’m glad I stuck with it. I really liked Aelthena, one of our MC’s. The sister of the youngest heir, Bjorn. She’s fierce loyal to her people, her clan and is just a very likable character. I was rooting for her from the start. I also adore her guardian, Frey. Another fiercely loyal character. Bjorn I thought was a very relatable character and is our other MC. We get both of their POV’s throughout the book. He’s very young and doesn’t like the idea of killing anyone, though he will have to find his courage at times. 🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Alex (Spells & Spaceships) · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a lot of originality to this story, which feels in some parts like a well written historical fiction, with traitors, swords, successions and manoeuverings behind the scenes, but combined with more fantasy and mythological elements as the story unfolds.

A technique in books I’d like to see more of that Rosell utilises really well is a small introductory paragraph or sentence to each chapter, with a piece of history, culture or quote from a legendary character. It helps build the wider picture, being able to throw some more information our way that just wouldn’t fit organically into other parts of the story.

Action is aplenty; something is always happening that keeps you interested and intrigued, and the events taking place in a well imagined word really helps with the immersion. You can practically feel the cold (and at times, the heat) impacting the story, following Bjorn through the snows and ice and Aelthena through the bindings of tradition and oppressive patriarchy.

The book’s main strength to me is in its two protagonists, who are brother and sister – Bjorn being the (recent) heir to an usurped throne, Aelthena being the woman bound by the trappings of a patriarchal culture/religion to be a subservient house wife.

Bjorn doesn’t want this position and knows his sister is much better suited to lead – as does she, who desperately wants to prove her strength of character and leadership abilities.

Both characters’ inner turmoil and desire to prove themselves is a large part of what drives the story with both desiring and being better suited to the opposite of their intended fate. Bjorn is expected to be a bear, brave and commanding. Aelthena is expected to be meek and to follow rather than be followed. Whilst Bjorn does have a desire to fight against his nature, Aelthena is consumed by hers and we really feel her struggles and frustrations especially as she navigates a male dominated Norse inspired society (which is arguably more patriarchal than the culture it takes its inspiration from).

Speaking of the Norse influences, I really like that it’s a Norse inspired world with its own flavour, that takes those Norse elements to enhance the story but is not consumed by their restraints. It feels like Rosell has his own direction in mind which is shown in choosing not to include unmistakable parallels with Norse Mythology, but still picking and choosing some of the elements he finds complimentary to the story he wants to tell.

For example, he incorporates Ice and Fire giants into his world – named jotunar and surtunar respectively. Anyone with a knowledge of Norse mythology can see the non-disguised inspiration being these names.

(For those without any knowledge of Norse Mythology, The Jötnar are the giants of the icy land of Jötunheimr. Muspelheim, the world bathed in flame, is guarded and ruled by the fire giant, Surt.)

For me, this familiar yet very new world felt really engaging and intriguing. And although I enjoyed the start of the tale that felt like the struggle for succession and plotting and all that other stuff I especially love in a fantasy story, the world built here was especially ripe for the mythological and monstrous introductions that come later, which I particularly enjoyed.

Some series feature books that can almost be read as a standalone with a full story arc and mini conclusion – if you’re looking for that however I’d say with this one it’s definitely more of a part one rather than its own story, despite tying up some of the threads.

If you’re looking for an immersive fantasy story with a fresh feel even in a continually growing Norse inspired market (no complaints from me there) definitely give this one a try! It was fun and it kept me engaged throughout

[Jamie Edmundson · Rating 5 out of 5]

While it’s norse-inspired rather than set in the ‘real’ Viking world there were lots of references to Viking culture and lore that added that Norse flavour, plus you got a very real sense of the cold, tough climate in which it was set. As well as the viking jarldoms, we get barbarians to the east and a mysterious warm-climate enemy, I guess to the south, though I didn’t quite get the geography of this.

There are two characters we follow as POVs, brother and sister Bjorn and Aelthena, son and daughter of the local jarl. When their holding, Oakharrow, comes under attack, they must act to defend it. Despite being siblings, their storylines are largely separate, though both slowly unravel the nature of the threats they face. I quite liked the symmetry of the characters: Bjorn does not consider himself to be a real warrior and struggles in a warrior’s world; while Aelthena strains against the restrictions placed on her because of her gender. In this sense Rosell portrays a realistic dark age society, which can be brutal and dark at times. They are supported by a well-rounded cast of allies, villains, and quite a few who we aren’t sure where their loyalties lie, which is always fun.

Plot-wise things are fast-paced, with plenty of action, while the two heroes learn about the nature of the threat they face. The story inverts the usual Viking tale of going raiding in foreign lands – in this story, it is the Viking lands themselves under attack. There is a unique storyline, with plenty of twists, but there is a familiarity to it as well. We are in the dark for large parts of the book about the enemy, which felt realistic but at times got a little annoying. At one point I didn’t understand the purpose behind Bjorn’s quest, but I put two and two together before too long. This may have been me being slow.

Altogether this was a well-written and smooth first in series, which really does everything right and promises more excitement in future instalments. My one negative on completing the read which isn’t really a negative at all was that I wanted more – it wasn’t quite the sprawling epic like The Vikings TV show. But it was a tightly controlled read, which will appeal to both casual and hardcore readers of historical/epic fantasy.

[Scott | Scottsforayintofiction · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book Review - The Throne of Ice & Ash

The Throne of Ice & Ash is the first book in The Runewar Saga by J.D.L Rosell . This also happens to be the first book I’ve read by this author.

The Throne of Ice and Ash is a Nordic inspired epic fantasy story told through the POVs of two siblings.

First we have Bjorn a young highborn son of the Jarl, Bor the bear. When we meet Bjorn he is struggling to find his place in the world.

Bjorn is not the fighter/leader like his older brothers. Bjorn is more suited to words and through this he is training to become the law speaker.

The second sibling is Aelthena. Aelthena is the opposite to Bjorn, Aelthena was born to rule, except this is not the place in society for a women.

When tragedy strike the family Bjorn and Aelthena have to step up and take on roles not wanted and thriving for more, respectively.

I’ll be honest it took me a while to warm to the main characters. I found them lacking depth and flip flopping with their personalities.

However, as I moved further into this story I started to feel like this was a ploy set by the author to outlay the harsh world these two siblings had to survive in and changing their views and perspectives is part of their growth.

Now post book 1, I’m really invested in both of these characters and what to see more character growth from both of them as the series progresses.

From a side character perspective I really enjoy it when Yonik was in the chapter, the mysterious priest has a troubled back story, and there is so much more about him than what we see on the surface.

I believe you can find out a little bit more about Yonik in the short prequel story - An Omen in the Snow.

I will be reading that next.

As you would expect from a Nordic inspired story the world is both rich and harsh.

I found the bitterly cold setting was just perfect for this type of story.

The action in this story was bloody and brutal with detailed choreograph fights scenes, which were easy to imagine in my minds eye.

The action toward the end of this book was particularly good.

The Throne of Ice and Ash is a good first entry to an interesting series with plenty of political intrigue, harsh environments and action.

If this sounds up your alley, you should check out this series.

I will definitely be continuing with this series.

Rating 7.75/10 ⭐️

[Icy_Space_Cobwebs · Rating 5 out of 5]

An engagingly written epic Fantasy, THE THRONE OF ICE AND ASH immediately captivated me with its lyrical imagery and deftly delicate delineation of character. I was fully engrossed in its Wintry setting. I eagerly anticipate more from this author, who demonstrates a keen eye for character and background.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this intriguing tale! The characters have a lot of strength and depth to them and are very well introduced and developed! It is a very good story line that draws you into it and keeps you turning the pages to see what is going to happen next! It does a great job of word painting a good vivid mental picture of characters and the surrounding scenes throughout it! I really enjoyed it and loved the way it ended letting your imagination wonder upon which direction it is going to go next!!! It is a stand alone story that is the beginning to a new series, that leaves you looking forward to what is going to be next. It truly offers the reader a lot along with its well told story! Plenty of action, adventure, mystery, drama, intrigue, twists, turns, and more!!! So enjoy a tale that is along the mythology line!

[Derrick Smythe · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Throne of Ice and Ash is a must-read for fans of Norse fantasy. This is only the beginning of the epic, but it sets the stage for a truly spellbinding tale.

Rosell does an excellent job illustrating relatable issues of self-doubt, demons of the present, and demons of the past.

Bjorn suffers weight of familial pressure to be a brave warrior, and feels unworthy of his title. He is not brave, at least not like that. However, we do learn that he is not without courage of a different sort. His struggles are relatable and I was able to sympathize with his desire to prove to himself, and others, that he is worthy to bear the mantle of heir of Oakharrow. He grows throughout the story and have some moments of triumph before the story concludes.

The other main protagonist, Bjorn’s sister Aelthena, is a victim of gender expectations. She is a strong woman with the capacity to rule, but comes to power in the midst of an unwinnable battle against conspiracy, backstabbing, and outside forces beyond anyone’s comprehension. She is essentially given command of a sinking ship and can only steer it toward the course of least destruction. She deals with her own demons too. She wishes to rule, knows she is best suited, but does not want to undermine her kin along the way. Her storyline also includes a bit of forbidden romance. It’s a minor aspect but is done with tact and grace.

All in all this story hints at some major events to come, but this story is more about getting to know the characters and building a foundation for the rest of the epic. We get clues from both storylines at a great war brewing, awakened powers thought long gone by most. Some readers may find the pacing a little slow at times, or will wish for more monsters and magic, but I believe the series will reveal these things in due time. He places some especially well-devised nougats toward the end, building anticipation for the next book in the series, The Crown of Fire and Fury (January 1, 2022), and The Stone of Iron and Omen (forthcoming in January, 2023).

[PAR · Rating 5 out of 5]

A harrowing tale of the struggle for power and the dawning heroes who rise above it, The Throne of Ice & Ash is Book 1 of the Norse high fantasy, coming of age series The Runewar Saga. Fans of A Song of Ice and Fire, The Lord of the Rings, and The Wheel of Time won't want to miss this new sweeping epic fantasy! JDL Rosell is a gifted and talented author. He has written. A thrilling novel that balances the fine line between justice and vengeance. "This is a brilliant read ... well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start. Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable. Great suspense and action with and wonderful world building. I gave this honest, voluntary review after being given a free copy of the book with no monetary compensation.

[Carole Eshenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping story

A truly gripping story told in the world of the old Viking/Norse culture. Characters coming of age and the people who follow them. This story will just wet your appetite for what is to come. Very well done.

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars
The Throne of Ice and Ash has all the elements of an excellent epic Norse-inspired fantasy. As Harrowhall of the city of Oakharrow burns, so does the jarl’s heirs, all except one, Bjorn. The jarls’ daughter Aelthena survives, but as a woman, she cannot lead. The jarl survives, but his mental state has declined. The devastation leaves chaos in its wake as to who is in control. Bjorn does not want the title as he always considered himself a scholar and a coward when it came to bloodshed and carrying out orders. Both Aelthena and Bjorn knows it is she who has both the strength and fortitude to carry Oakharrow forward. Despite tradition and law, she slips into the role of Lady Heir, taking charge to bring order to the city. To ease tensions, Bjorn is exiled for nearly killing a soldier. It is simply a ruse to send him on a dangerous mission to the north in winter to try and find those responsible. This book is action packed from the beginning. There is intrigue, struggles, betrayals and everything else you would want in an epic fantasy. The characters are excellent as is the world building. Mr. Rosell makes you want the characters to succeed and you will find it hard to put the book down as they go through the hardships they face. As an epic Norse fantasy, I highly recommend The Throne of Ice and Fire.
The Plot and Pace
As mentioned previously, The Throne of Ice and Ash is a fast-paced fantasy. The plot is not a typical Norse fantasy. There are similar elements in the jarl and the ruling family, but the similarities end there. The burning of Harrowhall and the aftermath make set it apart. As a fantasy, the reader is often looking for a source of a magic system. Yet, in this entry to the series, we see giants and strange, dangerous animals, the characters do not show any affinity for magic. There is none in this book. The destruction is attriubuted to magical evil forces, but it is none that they can defeat. I found this very interesting. In the book summary, there is magic alluled too, which leads one to believe it will show in subsequent books. It was a brilliant twist on the part of Mr. Rossell.
In the pacing, there was never a time when nothing was happening, no repetitiveness and anything that seemed like “page filler.” There were excellent action scenes interspersed with scenes that dealt with the intrigue going on in Oakharrow. Quite simply, it was hard to put down as the reader is left wanting to know all the twists and turns in the plot.
The Characters
Aelthena: While Aelthena may sound like the “strong female character taking charge” trope, it is very different. Yes, she is a strong character and goes against the law to take charge, he rushes headlong into a situation she is ill prepared for. With her brother exiled, she assumes she will be treated as “Lady Heir”, the next to rule Oakharrow. However, she faces both opposition and treachery. Her desire to rule seems all consuming. While she loves Bjorn and truly worries for his journey, she does feel that she can take her rightful place. Aelthena’s position often blinds her from what is truly going on in Oakharrow. She is an excellent character, a strong female, but not the trope.
Bjorn: Bjorn has absolutely no desire to rule. He is, in fact, the opposite of his sister. When he is “exiled” he is relieved not to have to make decisions he feels incapable of. Norse fantasy is filled with heroes, named men and plenty of battles. Bjorn is nothing like any character in Norse fantasy. Not only does he not want to rule, he does not want to be in battle. Bjorn often calls himself a coward as he does not live up to the standards of the men in his family or in Oakharrow. He does muster the courage to lead a group of men north to seek revenge on those who killed his family and the attack on Oakharrow.
Frey: Frey is Aelthena’s very loyal guardian. Where she goes, he follows and protects her. It is clear they have known each other a very long time as he often makes comments just to annoy her. She is engaged, but Frey is her guardian. He is worth noting because while Aelthena loves her fiancé, the reader often wonders where her heart truly lies. When her safety is threatened, it is Frey that protects her and will follow no matter the outcome.
World Building
Oakharrow is a typical Norse city. It has its poorer areas and the wealthier areas for the rich and ruling family. Why say the world building is excellent if it’s typical? Simple-that’s what makes it excellent. If the reader can imagine the intricacies of the tapestries and carvings of the great halls of Norse stories, the homes where they live, and the city, then the author has successfully created that world for the reader.
The venture by Bjorn into the northern mountains is harrowing, and the reader feels it. The trek feels real as they encounter a blizzard. Trudging through waist deep snow brings the reader on the journey, one that is not always pleasant.
Overall Thoughts
The Throne of Ice and Ash is a thrilling page-turning Norse epic fantasy. J.D.L. Rossell has written an excellent entry into the genre. There are well-developed characters that defy tropes, excellent world building, and excellent plot and pacing. While there is no magic system in this book, Mr. Rossell seems to be setting the reader up for more to come in the rest of the series. While the book does take place in a Norse inspired world, the descriptions are vivid and brings the world alive. This book was thrilling from beginning to end. It is an excellent fantasy and I highly recommend it.
My thanks to J.D.L. Rosell for sending me a signed copy of the book.
All reviews are on my website at: bookandnatureprofessor.com

[Victoria Gross · Rating 4 out of 5]

The biggest issue I had were the disparities between Aelthena and Bjorn. These characters are clearly written to be foils for one another. Where Bjorn is cowardly, Aelthena is brave. Sometimes, though, I felt as if their differences were there solely to make them opposite one another, if that makes sense. They consistently made choices that, while they moved the story along nicely, felt almost too in-character. It was almost to the point that they were dominated solely by the headstrong (Aelthena) and cowardly (Bjorn) personality traits that they’d been assigned in the beginning. For most of the book, they were stagnant and it was a little disappointing.
HOWEVER. And this is a big however. The best thing to happen to these two was to be kept apart. Without forced reminders of all they had lost, they were able to process their grief as individuals rather than siblings. It was an interesting take on familial grief, to be sure. I often found myself thinking about my own sister and how tragedy brought us closer together. It made me wonder if the relationship would have been different had their sexes been the same either way. I also noticed that the further they drifted apart, the more of themselves they shed. I don’t want to say too much because I’ve already been chastised for spoiling (looking at you up there, Justin). Still, I think it’s important to mention that who these characters are ultimately revolves around the fact that they’re human. They grow, as most characters do, and it takes being apart from one another for them to do so. It was really well done, in my opinion.
Okay, I have spent half my review talking about character. I do want to make one thing clear before I move on. I loved both of these characters. I think they had necessary stories to tell and I believe that they are both going to play a critical role in whatever conflict is forthcoming. Anyhow, moving on. I think where Rosell really shines is his worldbuilding. A Norse-inspired tale, The Throne of Ice and Ash often had me thinking I was reading an alternate history. The intricacies that Rosell wove in to the first book in his series was truly mindblowing. I was always hesitant about what was going to emerge from the trees to snatch up the Hunters or whether Aelthena’s allies were who they said they were. And, to me, I think that’s the most impressive. It was very reminiscent of A Song of Ice and Fire, although I sense that we will see the completion of this series before a nuclear winter strikes. I jest, but I do believe that Rosell is a shining star when it comes to his world creation and lore. Norse mythology fascinates me anyway, so this was just an overall treat to read.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is in search of a good bildungsroman. In fact, they would get a two-fer. Two for the price of one. Aelthena and Bjorn hold a special place in my virtual shelf, and one day soon my physical, but until then, it was a pleasure to be able to visit them in this enthralling first installment of J.D.L Rosell’s The Runewar Saga.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the first installment of a new series, The Throne of Ice & Ash does an excellent job of establishing the "world" of the Baegards. There was just enough Norse mythology for me to form a picture of the society and religion before Rosell took it in a slightly different bent with his own lore. I could feel the terror of the people as they faced legendary creatures come to life, as well as smell the acrid smoke from the Chasm when the warriors were seeking answers. My envisioning of the races (tribes) is still a little fuzzy, but on the whole, a story well-told and well-paced. The one bummer about series is you have to wait so long between books... I hope Rosell is able to make headway on book two quickly as this one has left me wanting to follow the diverging storylines while at the same time wanting to see them come together. Thanks for writing an engaging story!

I received an ARC and this review is my own.

[Bookish Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This will definitely be an epic series! The Throne of Ice and Ash: The Runewar Saga is book 1, so the ending is yet to come! The world creation and story building are amazing. I also love a well drawn and intricate map at the beginning of a book!
I believe the characters and story have a Nordic influence, which is super cool, but meeting so many characters, places, and clans with tricky names can be confusing. I ended up making my own little cheat sheet to help me follow along. I love Aelthena so far and I’m excited to see where this strong female character goes!
If you’re a fan of George R. R. Martin’s Game of Thrones, definitely check this out!! I can’t wait for the rest! 🗻❄️🏰🔥🗡 I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.

[Marie Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have absolutely loved everything I've read by this author. I was very excited to hear about this new series, and even more so when I found out it is loosely based on Norse mythology.

Ice giants + epic fantasy = glorious

The characters are all beautifully flawed and the growth in just this one book is fantastic. I still have no idea what is going to happen to the main characters or who they should trust. My only issue with this book was a love interest who I had originally labeled as "that creepy guard who thinks he's funny." I enjoy the character, but it threw me off every time he came back because of my initial thoughts. It is entirely possible I embellished the initial character introduction in my head. I'll have to find out with a reread later on.

[MGB · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an excellent read. The author draws us into Oakharrow. Then the reader is lead to the different characters and how they all fit. On the surface there is tension between the different groups who live here. There is even more tension, but remote with distant groups. You will find yourself connecting to the protagonists and rooting for them to be better people and better to the low born around them.

There is conflict, action and drama. There is escape and winter survival. There are twists in how all the characters relate to each other, and the reader can see these changes laid out and alter the outcome.

If you like Epic novels and struggles for the betterment of your community you will enjoy this read.

[Matthew W Seniff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the first in a series and it starts quickly. The world building is completely inspiring and helps define the characters. It’s a demanding location that drives the plot well. The characters are all formed and driven by their surroundings growing as the story line progresses. There is a sense of majesty and importance that is reminiscent of Tolkien’s work. That is a tall comparison but it’s apt. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more in the series. I recommend this book to all readers that enjoy the LOTR and other books of that ilk.


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Christopher Bray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first J.D.L Rosell book, and I was lucky enough to get hold of a pre-release copy. I took a break from reading another long series specifically to read this book, and I am really glad I did.

The book is very well written, with a storyline that is not entirely predictable, and some new types of being that I have not seen or read about before. I found it believable (as far as any fantasy can be believable) and I found it *really* hard to put down.

The best I can say about this book without giving away too many spoilers is that I cannot wait for the next book in the series. This is really great stuff!

[Colleen Villasenor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tale of war and intrigue with a Norse flavor

This story centers around one family and the community their father has ruled until he became too "sprite touched", a term for dementia. The author creates a fascinating and brutal world where factions scheme and struggle for control. It is not a pretty world. It contains hardships, violence, and inequalities. The author follows two members of the family as they each try to deal with the fallout of the destruction of their home and most of their household. The author skillfully develops a variety of characters and a harsh and icy landscape with beings from myth that are nevertheless believable. I was engaged with their plight from the beginning and captivated by the twists in the unfolding plot. The book lays the groundwork for the book to follow.

[Janice Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book. It sets the story in a Norse style but with different Gods and unusual beings. I liked the way the main characters were not super great at fighting and had major flaws to overcome. They were more human. I can't say I liked them at the start, but they did grow and become better. As this is a series, you won't be finding a satisfying ending. The main characters do resolve some problems and will go on to the next book.

[Linda Rorex · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one of the Runewar saga featuring Bjorn the youngest Viking heir in Oakharrow and his sister Aelthena and their adventures. This epic fantasy fiction novel of brave Viking heroes and the mythical creatures they must defeat was a fantastic read. I received this free e-book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book as it kept me waiting for more adventures.
Every time you thought that something bad was happening they
Manage to save themselves. The characters certainly had lots of
Flaws. But as usual the story leaves you wanting to read the next book.

[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this book. It is a good book one start to a series. I wanted to keep reading when I got to the end, to find out what happens next. I really liked the action scenes/fighting, and wish there was more of that... don't get me wrong, there is plenty, I'm just a blood thirsty reader. This should be a good series, looking forward to the next book already!

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bjorn is not a warrior, he prefers a quill to a sword. Now there is no choice. Action, fast paced and more to make you fall in love with the book.

[MightySSStrawberry · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is mediocre. Not garbage, but not great. It’s written well enough as far as vocabulary and mechanics, I suppose, but nothing gripped me. We took the “mythical winter horror from beyond” from the opening of Game of Thrones, sprinkled some Skyrim over everything, and forgot to include scenes that make me care what happens to the characters. Sadly, I never did. I was bored most of the time. After a while I got sick of Bjorn having a pity party in each of his chapters. Aelthena shows some good leadership potential in the beginning, asserting herself, but most of her side of the story later is just her being captured or forced into a decision or running away. She and Bjorn are always doubting something: “…she doubted it would…” or “Bjorn doubted he would…” I lost count how many times this was written. This should not be compared to Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings. I’ve watched and read both. I will not be continuing this series. It was just…meh.

[David Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story with exciting characters and a great read. Am definitely looking forward to the next instalment.

[Jeremy Barry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent start to a trilogy. Prose is succinct while being descriptive. Good economy of words and pacing. Very much enjoyed the characters and their development was distinct in the first volume. Continuing the series and putting the rest of the author's books in my TBR. Surprised I don't see more about this book. Very impressed!!!

[Steve Filson · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a harsh World this Author has built, The Character Building is excellent. I am an Honest ARC reviewer that really liked the dark side presented here . The Author gives little hope for this World ,Yet the Characters push forward against all odds. The Shaman aspect intrigues , And the Giant ...well he's a GIANT !! oh yeah and smurfs (oops I mean Blue people ) whats not to like.