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The Nine Worlds Rising #2
The Order of Chaos
Ending the worlds was supposed to be fun...
After five hundred years of imprisonment and torture, Loki the trickster god has broken free and is consumed with revenge. He has a promise to fulfill—he’s coming for the gods and will burn Asgard to the ground for what they did.
Igniting Ragnarok, the end of everything, will be a glorious surprise.
Except the gods have a surprise of their own.
Sigyn, the delightfully stubborn woman he loves, is alive.
This complicates his plans to break all the Nine Worlds. The fact that she also has an elven lord beau complicates them further. Afterall, three is a crowd.
Loki puts his raging vengeance on hold, wanting to stop what he started and protect Sigyn from a fiery death.
But, this is Ragnarok and one never can predict the apocalypse, and Loki is no longer sure if he’s in control. Chaos isn’t about to start taking orders from anyone, not even the god of chaos himself—and it has a universe to destroy.
After five hundred years of imprisonment and torture, Loki the trickster god has broken free and is consumed with revenge. He has a promise to fulfill—he’s coming for the gods and will burn Asgard to the ground for what they did.
Igniting Ragnarok, the end of everything, will be a glorious surprise.
Except the gods have a surprise of their own.
Sigyn, the delightfully stubborn woman he loves, is alive.
This complicates his plans to break all the Nine Worlds. The fact that she also has an elven lord beau complicates them further. Afterall, three is a crowd.
Loki puts his raging vengeance on hold, wanting to stop what he started and protect Sigyn from a fiery death.
But, this is Ragnarok and one never can predict the apocalypse, and Loki is no longer sure if he’s in control. Chaos isn’t about to start taking orders from anyone, not even the god of chaos himself—and it has a universe to destroy.
Published July 1, 2021
69 people are currently reading
1293 people want to read
About the author
Lyra Wolf
9 books137 followersLyra Wolf is a Swiss-American author of fantasy and mythic fiction.
Raised in Indiana, home to a billion corn mazes, she now lives in Central Florida, home to a billion mosquitoes. She enjoys drinking espresso, wandering through old city streets, and being tragically drawn to 18th century rogues.
When Lyra isn’t fulfilling the wishes of her overly demanding Chihuahua, you can find her writing about other worlds and the complicated people who live there.
Lyra has earned a B.A. in History and M.A. in English.
Raised in Indiana, home to a billion corn mazes, she now lives in Central Florida, home to a billion mosquitoes. She enjoys drinking espresso, wandering through old city streets, and being tragically drawn to 18th century rogues.
When Lyra isn’t fulfilling the wishes of her overly demanding Chihuahua, you can find her writing about other worlds and the complicated people who live there.
Lyra has earned a B.A. in History and M.A. in English.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
April 15, 2021
Chaos Rising is book 2 in Lyra Wolf’s Nine World Chronicles, and the third release in the series (click on the links to find my reviews of the previous books Lies, Knives, and Apples and Truth and Other Lies). I have really enjoyed this series from beginning to end. The characters are interesting, the storyline is fascinating and suspenseful, and I love the Norse vibes.
The character set is really unique in this book, because their growth is atypical. What I mean by that is that book 2 of a series is normally where I talk about character evolution, but that does not happen for most of the characters. Why? Because these deities have been around for thousand of years. They have already learned from their experiences and had their personalities molded. This is important for me to say, because this is a character-driven series, so if their growth is not the focus the author has to find other ways to make them interesting, and Wolf does a great job of that. This is accomplished in two ways: first, by giving the reader an intimate look into the lives of the Gods and Goddesses. Their lives are interesting! They are all powerful and lustful and sexy. Their interpersonal relationships are a big tangled web of drama. It is like watching the Kardashians, if the Kardashians were deities. (I have never watched the Kardashians, but I imagine this is what it is like). We love drama, and Wolf gives it to us in spades. The second way the author uses the characters to drive the story is with Loki himself. I am going to speak about him more later, but he is the one character who experiences some growth or evolution of personality. Of course, his journey is the crux of the story, so it makes sense for his character.
Speaking of storyline, the narrative in this book is near perfect. Wolf took what were the beginnings of an intriguing story in book 1 and expanded upon it. Chaos rising bigger, better, and even more alluring than the first. This book has everything I wanted. Loki is more emotional, events from the first book were addressed, and there is further development of the current storyline. Wolf’s writing chops are well-demonstrating in this book. The author has shown an ability to build up tension leading to a big event and let the story go out with a bang. The plot is super intriguing, there are some surprises along the way, and the ending is phenomenal.
Because this journey is Loki’s, I want to discuss his character arc in detail. As an MC, he is hard to love sometimes (though he may disagree). Loki is not really a good guy. He is selfish and often rude to those around him, he is a total lush, and is completely unfaithful. It is not easy to root for him all the time. That does not mean I do not enjoy him as a character, and I think he is the one from whom we do see significant growth throughout the series (though, again, for selfish reasons); but, for all of his flaws, the one thing I believe is he is not cruel (at least in books 1 and 2). He does something incredibly heartless in Lies, Knives, and Apples, an action which I think was way out of character. I am happy to see a shift in him in books 1 and 2, to Wolf’s credit, because it would have been impossible to support him in this journey, otherwise. And I think his flaws make him that much more interesting as a character and create a situation where the payoff is even more satisfying.
I love the Nine World Chronicles, and Chaos Rising is a near-perfect entry into the series. I see there is already a book 3 on the horizon, and I cannot wait to see where Wolf takes the series from here
The character set is really unique in this book, because their growth is atypical. What I mean by that is that book 2 of a series is normally where I talk about character evolution, but that does not happen for most of the characters. Why? Because these deities have been around for thousand of years. They have already learned from their experiences and had their personalities molded. This is important for me to say, because this is a character-driven series, so if their growth is not the focus the author has to find other ways to make them interesting, and Wolf does a great job of that. This is accomplished in two ways: first, by giving the reader an intimate look into the lives of the Gods and Goddesses. Their lives are interesting! They are all powerful and lustful and sexy. Their interpersonal relationships are a big tangled web of drama. It is like watching the Kardashians, if the Kardashians were deities. (I have never watched the Kardashians, but I imagine this is what it is like). We love drama, and Wolf gives it to us in spades. The second way the author uses the characters to drive the story is with Loki himself. I am going to speak about him more later, but he is the one character who experiences some growth or evolution of personality. Of course, his journey is the crux of the story, so it makes sense for his character.
Speaking of storyline, the narrative in this book is near perfect. Wolf took what were the beginnings of an intriguing story in book 1 and expanded upon it. Chaos rising bigger, better, and even more alluring than the first. This book has everything I wanted. Loki is more emotional, events from the first book were addressed, and there is further development of the current storyline. Wolf’s writing chops are well-demonstrating in this book. The author has shown an ability to build up tension leading to a big event and let the story go out with a bang. The plot is super intriguing, there are some surprises along the way, and the ending is phenomenal.
Because this journey is Loki’s, I want to discuss his character arc in detail. As an MC, he is hard to love sometimes (though he may disagree). Loki is not really a good guy. He is selfish and often rude to those around him, he is a total lush, and is completely unfaithful. It is not easy to root for him all the time. That does not mean I do not enjoy him as a character, and I think he is the one from whom we do see significant growth throughout the series (though, again, for selfish reasons); but, for all of his flaws, the one thing I believe is he is not cruel (at least in books 1 and 2). He does something incredibly heartless in Lies, Knives, and Apples, an action which I think was way out of character. I am happy to see a shift in him in books 1 and 2, to Wolf’s credit, because it would have been impossible to support him in this journey, otherwise. And I think his flaws make him that much more interesting as a character and create a situation where the payoff is even more satisfying.
I love the Nine World Chronicles, and Chaos Rising is a near-perfect entry into the series. I see there is already a book 3 on the horizon, and I cannot wait to see where Wolf takes the series from here
October 29, 2021
I received an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review.
What I liked most about this book is its ability to stray away from the so-often trodden path of Norse Myth. Lyra doesn't play too close to the predictable version of things, which keeps the journey refreshing and surprising. She also isn't afraid to delay giving readers what they want in order to keep them invested in the plot. Combine that with some very satisfying emotional growth, and I found it to be a compelling extension of the previous book.
And that ending? WHAT NEXT LYRA? WHAT. NEXT.
What I liked most about this book is its ability to stray away from the so-often trodden path of Norse Myth. Lyra doesn't play too close to the predictable version of things, which keeps the journey refreshing and surprising. She also isn't afraid to delay giving readers what they want in order to keep them invested in the plot. Combine that with some very satisfying emotional growth, and I found it to be a compelling extension of the previous book.
And that ending? WHAT NEXT LYRA? WHAT. NEXT.
October 22, 2025
I am sooo excited to continue this series. I love funny narrators.
"If I cannot bend heaven, I will raise hell."
— Virgil, The Aeneid
This dedication defines it perfectly.
I am afraid Loki just raised my standards to heights no mortal man can even hope to achieve.
-------
Some of my favorite quotes:
"PROLOGUE, OR HOW SPENCER AND MOLLY OF ST. GEORGE UNIVERSITY WERE ABOUT TO LEARN YOU JUST DON’T GO AROUND RELEASING STRANGE MEN IN CAVES (SERIOUSLY. IT’S NEVER A GOOD IDEA.)"
"Bitch, please. It would take more than a little scalding snake venom to stop me."
"But I couldn’t destroy the worlds in a poly-blend suit."
"She always had all the pleasantness of a hurricane. That was all her mother."
“This is my fiancé.”
“Sorry, I think I just suffered a minor stroke. Can you tell me that again?”
“Are you saying I’m self-centered?”“
The sun is smaller than your ego.”
“Don’t marry him,” I whispered. Begged. “I love you.”
" He screamed and lunged at me and shoved me to the floor. My head cracked against the stone, sending a jolt down my legs. My eyes swam with stars. I chuckled. He always did like it rough. "
“The woman,” she said. “You really will do anything for her.”“Mercilessly.”
"If I cannot bend heaven, I will raise hell."
— Virgil, The Aeneid
This dedication defines it perfectly.
I am afraid Loki just raised my standards to heights no mortal man can even hope to achieve.
-------
Some of my favorite quotes:
"PROLOGUE, OR HOW SPENCER AND MOLLY OF ST. GEORGE UNIVERSITY WERE ABOUT TO LEARN YOU JUST DON’T GO AROUND RELEASING STRANGE MEN IN CAVES (SERIOUSLY. IT’S NEVER A GOOD IDEA.)"
"Bitch, please. It would take more than a little scalding snake venom to stop me."
"But I couldn’t destroy the worlds in a poly-blend suit."
"She always had all the pleasantness of a hurricane. That was all her mother."
“This is my fiancé.”
“Sorry, I think I just suffered a minor stroke. Can you tell me that again?”
“Are you saying I’m self-centered?”“
The sun is smaller than your ego.”
“Don’t marry him,” I whispered. Begged. “I love you.”
" He screamed and lunged at me and shoved me to the floor. My head cracked against the stone, sending a jolt down my legs. My eyes swam with stars. I chuckled. He always did like it rough. "
“The woman,” she said. “You really will do anything for her.”“Mercilessly.”
January 15, 2025
I have to admit... it was a rollercoaster and a big one at that
I am unwell now 😭
I am unwell now 😭
April 15, 2021
When you're reading about Ragnarök, which ends everything, but you know there will be another book in the series, you probably know something unexpected might happen…
It's difficult for me to review Chaos Rising, because I know too much about the Norse lore, which is…the weakest part of the book. When Wolf lets her creativity off the leash (I'll stop with the puns) (maybe) the book shines – wait till you read about the vegan. I almost choked on the Falafel. (So tempted to give all the spoilers.) Where the author's hands are tied by Völuspa, suspension of disbelief becomes difficult. It's hard to make the end of the Universe funny – the emotionless cruelty of the myths doesn't leave much space for humour. The further Wolf steps away from the mythology, the better the book becomes. As a heathen, I did not expect to feel that Chaos Rising is a better read than Völuspa o_O Bloody völvas, ruining my fun.
I'm very excited about the third book. There's a snippet at the end of Chaos Rising and it's a GAAAAHHH WHAAAT NOOOOO sort of snippet. And there are no post-Ragnarök myths, so I expect all fun, all Wolf. (No pressure.)
It's difficult for me to review Chaos Rising, because I know too much about the Norse lore, which is…the weakest part of the book. When Wolf lets her creativity off the leash (I'll stop with the puns) (maybe) the book shines – wait till you read about the vegan. I almost choked on the Falafel. (So tempted to give all the spoilers.) Where the author's hands are tied by Völuspa, suspension of disbelief becomes difficult. It's hard to make the end of the Universe funny – the emotionless cruelty of the myths doesn't leave much space for humour. The further Wolf steps away from the mythology, the better the book becomes. As a heathen, I did not expect to feel that Chaos Rising is a better read than Völuspa o_O Bloody völvas, ruining my fun.
I'm very excited about the third book. There's a snippet at the end of Chaos Rising and it's a GAAAAHHH WHAAAT NOOOOO sort of snippet. And there are no post-Ragnarök myths, so I expect all fun, all Wolf. (No pressure.)
July 26, 2023
This book is fun and a little bit chaotic (see what I did there)
Structurally it is crazy and there are some plot holes and odd transitions.
That said the characters are vibrant, exciting and memorable. Which really is the highlight of the book.
The story is good, if not incredible
Structurally it is crazy and there are some plot holes and odd transitions.
That said the characters are vibrant, exciting and memorable. Which really is the highlight of the book.
The story is good, if not incredible
February 24, 2022
Chaos Rising is the second book in The Nine World Chronicles series by Lyra Wolf. It starts in the present day, with events following on from the prologue scene from Truth and Other Lies.
Loki has managed to escape his five hundred year torture in a cave beneath Basel, and is now determined to avenge the deaths of his beloved Sigyn and their twins Nari and Narfi. The story is once again told in first person which enables the reader to feel Loki’s anger and pain all the more keenly. He discovered in the previous book that he is ‘The Destroyer‘, destined to bring about Ragnarok, the destruction of all the realms and of the gods themselves. In Chaos Rising Loki is a heart-broken, devastated, tormented and vengeful god. We experience his gut-wrenching depth of feeling with regard to the broken oath between himself and his one time lover, Odin:
“As it is, I thought about you every day as well,” I said, stepping towards him. “How I would kill you. How I would cut out your bowels. How I would watch you burn as I drowned in the venom eating me alive…”
Loki the avenger seeks his daughter Hel in order to persuade her to let him use her army of the dead to fight against the gods at Ragnarok. She requires Balder’s death as payment, since she wants him by her side forever. Loki happily kills him using a weapon made from mistletoe which is one of the many well-known Norse myths that Lyra Wolf skillfully weaves into her Loki story.
Odin shows Loki that he saved Sigyn – she is alive after all and living in Alfheim with her new fiancé Falael, who Loki wickedly keeps referring to as ‘falafel’. There is a lot of humour and wit peppered throughout this book, and I thoroughly enjoyed every instance. Loki’s giant wolf son, Fenrir is now a vegan living as a man in Vienna, posting daily food photos to social media. With the approach of Ragnarok, Fenrir’s anxiety has been growing. He has been meditating, using vitamin supplements and herbal remedies to try and keep his anger under control, and the wolf firmly contained within him – but the sight of his father Loki, is too much for him:
“A pressure has started building in me. Like a thunderstorm raging in my head. It’s been lashing out, and when I saw you, Father…”
Loki changes his mind about Ragnarok, since he does not want any harm to come to Sigyn, despite her having moved on and found love with someone else, but it’s too late. Events are out of control and Ragnarok is approaching inevitably. Loki finds he is increasingly unable to control his chaos.
There are elements of the classic tragic love triangle in this story. After all the torment and torture Loki has been put through, to then find his beloved Sigyn is now engaged to a beige-wearing elf is unbearable. I found myself rooting for him to win back the girl.
There is a lot of descriptive detail about the locations used in this novel, which helps to bring them to life. For example, in Vienna we are shown the Spanish Riding School, Hotel Sacher and St Stephen’s cathedral, among other famous locations. While in Vienna, an exciting, fast-paced action sequence unfolds, as Odin and Loki battle the army of the dead, while nonchalantly carrying on a conversation about their past relationship and how much they had loved and hurt one another. This cinematic scene ends with them leaping on board a subway train pursued by the dead army, much to the horror of their human onlookers. This was my favourite part in the book, I could easily visualize it and imagine it being made into a movie. I also really enjoyed the humour of a scene in which Loki, Fenrir, Falael and Sigyn are about to head out into the streets, which are being rampaged by the army of the dead, and Sigyn starts arming them all with kitchen implements:
“Sigyn walked back out and handed him a serrated knife. Fenrir took the overly large and overly pointy serving fork she held out to him. “Which is?” I asked, refusing a spatula crusted in layers of dinners past. I’d really have to get them some proper weapons…”
Chaos Rising is a thoroughly enjoyable book and I would recommend it to anyone adult.
There are some sex scenes and a fair amount of violence and gore in the final fast-paced and heart-stopping battle scenes of Ragnarok, so I do not think it would be appropriate for a younger audience. I can’t wait to read the final part of the trilogy, At Realm’s Edge!
Loki has managed to escape his five hundred year torture in a cave beneath Basel, and is now determined to avenge the deaths of his beloved Sigyn and their twins Nari and Narfi. The story is once again told in first person which enables the reader to feel Loki’s anger and pain all the more keenly. He discovered in the previous book that he is ‘The Destroyer‘, destined to bring about Ragnarok, the destruction of all the realms and of the gods themselves. In Chaos Rising Loki is a heart-broken, devastated, tormented and vengeful god. We experience his gut-wrenching depth of feeling with regard to the broken oath between himself and his one time lover, Odin:
“As it is, I thought about you every day as well,” I said, stepping towards him. “How I would kill you. How I would cut out your bowels. How I would watch you burn as I drowned in the venom eating me alive…”
Loki the avenger seeks his daughter Hel in order to persuade her to let him use her army of the dead to fight against the gods at Ragnarok. She requires Balder’s death as payment, since she wants him by her side forever. Loki happily kills him using a weapon made from mistletoe which is one of the many well-known Norse myths that Lyra Wolf skillfully weaves into her Loki story.
Odin shows Loki that he saved Sigyn – she is alive after all and living in Alfheim with her new fiancé Falael, who Loki wickedly keeps referring to as ‘falafel’. There is a lot of humour and wit peppered throughout this book, and I thoroughly enjoyed every instance. Loki’s giant wolf son, Fenrir is now a vegan living as a man in Vienna, posting daily food photos to social media. With the approach of Ragnarok, Fenrir’s anxiety has been growing. He has been meditating, using vitamin supplements and herbal remedies to try and keep his anger under control, and the wolf firmly contained within him – but the sight of his father Loki, is too much for him:
“A pressure has started building in me. Like a thunderstorm raging in my head. It’s been lashing out, and when I saw you, Father…”
Loki changes his mind about Ragnarok, since he does not want any harm to come to Sigyn, despite her having moved on and found love with someone else, but it’s too late. Events are out of control and Ragnarok is approaching inevitably. Loki finds he is increasingly unable to control his chaos.
There are elements of the classic tragic love triangle in this story. After all the torment and torture Loki has been put through, to then find his beloved Sigyn is now engaged to a beige-wearing elf is unbearable. I found myself rooting for him to win back the girl.
There is a lot of descriptive detail about the locations used in this novel, which helps to bring them to life. For example, in Vienna we are shown the Spanish Riding School, Hotel Sacher and St Stephen’s cathedral, among other famous locations. While in Vienna, an exciting, fast-paced action sequence unfolds, as Odin and Loki battle the army of the dead, while nonchalantly carrying on a conversation about their past relationship and how much they had loved and hurt one another. This cinematic scene ends with them leaping on board a subway train pursued by the dead army, much to the horror of their human onlookers. This was my favourite part in the book, I could easily visualize it and imagine it being made into a movie. I also really enjoyed the humour of a scene in which Loki, Fenrir, Falael and Sigyn are about to head out into the streets, which are being rampaged by the army of the dead, and Sigyn starts arming them all with kitchen implements:
“Sigyn walked back out and handed him a serrated knife. Fenrir took the overly large and overly pointy serving fork she held out to him. “Which is?” I asked, refusing a spatula crusted in layers of dinners past. I’d really have to get them some proper weapons…”
Chaos Rising is a thoroughly enjoyable book and I would recommend it to anyone adult.
There are some sex scenes and a fair amount of violence and gore in the final fast-paced and heart-stopping battle scenes of Ragnarok, so I do not think it would be appropriate for a younger audience. I can’t wait to read the final part of the trilogy, At Realm’s Edge!
December 12, 2024
Rating:4.8 stars
TBR Thoughts:I miss my fav trickster :')
TLDR: MISS LYRA WOLF I OWE YOU MY FIRSTBORN FOR THIS ONE ❤️🔥
Full Review:
Listen, when I read the first book, Truth & Other Lies last year, I became devoted to Ms. Lyra Wolf. Indebted. I was so thrilled by this series. I will admit I had my expectations low for this sequel, and for the first we'll say...10%, I wasn't super into it.
By God, did it only go upwards from there.
✧THE WRITING I mentioned in my review of the first book but it is essential I talk about it again. The first-person really makes you connect with the character. And Ms.Wolf has a special talent, a skill with which she manages to reach the innermost layers of my soul with her words. Fuck if I'm being dramatic, that's how this makes me feel. It's truly bone-chilling.
✧THE CHARACTERS are as sharp and full of depth as ever. As vibrant and fierce in their personality, in their manner. The main character, Loki, is eternally beloved by me. The author's portrayal of him has magic in it. She takes the base character from the myth and weaves it with her own imagination, her originality a perfect fit. It's not hard to see with what precision he is crafted, in every single sentence. Then there is Sigyn, tough and beautiful and such a perfect contrast to Loki. Odin, my, what a character there! The new characters, too, Fenrir and Falael are most entertaining and interesting. Each one's connection to the protagonist is important and necessary. There's not one too many side characters you know? The characters are probably my favourite thing about this series, tbh.
✧THE PLOT is SO interesting and thrilling. It unravels beautifully, and takes unexpected turns wherever possible. This book was definitely way more eventful than the first one, adding to the entertainment. The entire story is incredibly well thought-out and precise, I can tell. I can see where what started, and where it's going. The author does a good job of staying to the true mythology and intertwining it with her original content, creating an amazingly spun masterpiece, a web of story. Each scene is not too slow-paced, and keeps you on your toes. It's not boring or predictable for a single second.
✧THE EFFECT is undeniably enticing. I don't know what it is, but Ms.Wolf just does something to unlock the villain in me. This book opened the darkest, strangest unexplored little corners of my mind, made my question my own self. And I fucking loved it.
In conclusion, this is my favourite fantasy series ever. I beg for Lyra Wolf not to stop writing as long as I am still alive. And, God, it plagues me to see this series go so underappreciated. How is such a well written, entertaining book not more widely talked about it?? I wish I had a large enough platform to blow this book up. I'll see you over the third one! 🥹💙🌹🌹
TBR Thoughts:I miss my fav trickster :')
TLDR: MISS LYRA WOLF I OWE YOU MY FIRSTBORN FOR THIS ONE ❤️🔥
Full Review:
Listen, when I read the first book, Truth & Other Lies last year, I became devoted to Ms. Lyra Wolf. Indebted. I was so thrilled by this series. I will admit I had my expectations low for this sequel, and for the first we'll say...10%, I wasn't super into it.
By God, did it only go upwards from there.
✧THE WRITING I mentioned in my review of the first book but it is essential I talk about it again. The first-person really makes you connect with the character. And Ms.Wolf has a special talent, a skill with which she manages to reach the innermost layers of my soul with her words. Fuck if I'm being dramatic, that's how this makes me feel. It's truly bone-chilling.
✧THE CHARACTERS are as sharp and full of depth as ever. As vibrant and fierce in their personality, in their manner. The main character, Loki, is eternally beloved by me. The author's portrayal of him has magic in it. She takes the base character from the myth and weaves it with her own imagination, her originality a perfect fit. It's not hard to see with what precision he is crafted, in every single sentence. Then there is Sigyn, tough and beautiful and such a perfect contrast to Loki. Odin, my, what a character there! The new characters, too, Fenrir and Falael are most entertaining and interesting. Each one's connection to the protagonist is important and necessary. There's not one too many side characters you know? The characters are probably my favourite thing about this series, tbh.
✧THE PLOT is SO interesting and thrilling. It unravels beautifully, and takes unexpected turns wherever possible. This book was definitely way more eventful than the first one, adding to the entertainment. The entire story is incredibly well thought-out and precise, I can tell. I can see where what started, and where it's going. The author does a good job of staying to the true mythology and intertwining it with her original content, creating an amazingly spun masterpiece, a web of story. Each scene is not too slow-paced, and keeps you on your toes. It's not boring or predictable for a single second.
✧THE EFFECT is undeniably enticing. I don't know what it is, but Ms.Wolf just does something to unlock the villain in me. This book opened the darkest, strangest unexplored little corners of my mind, made my question my own self. And I fucking loved it.
In conclusion, this is my favourite fantasy series ever. I beg for Lyra Wolf not to stop writing as long as I am still alive. And, God, it plagues me to see this series go so underappreciated. How is such a well written, entertaining book not more widely talked about it?? I wish I had a large enough platform to blow this book up. I'll see you over the third one! 🥹💙🌹🌹
March 26, 2024
Fidelity issues
I liked Loki's children. That's about all though. In the last book the other gods (mainly Odin) try to change their fate and end up causing that which they fear. In this book Loki takes on that role, which annoyed me because here trying to avert fate was specifically called out as a way to drive it faster and Loki is supposed to be more clever. So, Loki disappointed me throughout. However, Sigyn's story is the one I just plain disliked.
Spoilers
I kept hoping Sigyn had amnesia or some deal/oath with Odin that prevented her from being with Loki. Nope. Fidelity apparently was content pretending her true love was dead instead of being tortured. At first, it seemed she was trapped, a prisoner on Alfheim, but no. Her new lover traveled and offered to take her. She chose not to go. She chose to hide instead of trying to help or even see Loki. If she could get to Midgard, why wouldn't she try to reach Loki and relieve some of his pain as Sigyn does in her most prominent myth? The fact that loyal Sigyn with glowing fidelity, famous for standing with and believing in her loved ones abandoned Loki to his fate in this story, seemingly without even trying to help him, disgusts me.
Many myths play out differently in these books, so perhaps the issues with fidelity will be addressed later, but frankly the characterization of Sigyn (who I liked in the first book) here makes me want to stop reading the series.
I liked Loki's children. That's about all though. In the last book the other gods (mainly Odin) try to change their fate and end up causing that which they fear. In this book Loki takes on that role, which annoyed me because here trying to avert fate was specifically called out as a way to drive it faster and Loki is supposed to be more clever. So, Loki disappointed me throughout. However, Sigyn's story is the one I just plain disliked.
Spoilers
I kept hoping Sigyn had amnesia or some deal/oath with Odin that prevented her from being with Loki. Nope. Fidelity apparently was content pretending her true love was dead instead of being tortured. At first, it seemed she was trapped, a prisoner on Alfheim, but no. Her new lover traveled and offered to take her. She chose not to go. She chose to hide instead of trying to help or even see Loki. If she could get to Midgard, why wouldn't she try to reach Loki and relieve some of his pain as Sigyn does in her most prominent myth? The fact that loyal Sigyn with glowing fidelity, famous for standing with and believing in her loved ones abandoned Loki to his fate in this story, seemingly without even trying to help him, disgusts me.
Many myths play out differently in these books, so perhaps the issues with fidelity will be addressed later, but frankly the characterization of Sigyn (who I liked in the first book) here makes me want to stop reading the series.
February 15, 2022
3.5/5 rating
I have to admit. I liked this book less than the first one. Don't get me wrong, it was still an amusing read, and I was curious to see how Lyra managed to twist the original sagas to fit her story. Loki was absolutely lovely, but then again, I might be extremely biased when it comes to him, same goes for his children, although I am a little sad our dear midgarðsormr chose the side of wrong. I think I would have really liked him. Spoilers: I still do.
No, what made me like this book less was, unfortunately, Sigyn. Whereas in the first book I really liked and connected to her character, she felt weak and whiny in this book, and truly, that scares me a little thinking about the next book in this series. Then again, I have never been a big fan of her. That preview gave me very little hope, argh. Loki deserves better, haha
November 7, 2022
I previously read the ebook of The Order of Chaos. This review is a repost with a little extra added in as I listened to the audiobook this time!
Added: Thank you to Lyra Wolf for providing me a code for the audiobook. I voluntarily leave this review.
I loved this book as an ebook, and listening to it on audiobook took it to a whole new level! Great voice acting and I can't picture anyone else voicing Loki now! There is so much emotion added to the story with the narration.
This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Order of Chaos
For centuries Loki was locked away, tortured, and bound by magic. And for centuries he plotted the downfall of the Gods, the destruction of all, Ragnarok. When Loki is finally released, sparking the apocalypse is the first on his to-do list. But as the chaotic energy of Ragnarok lures him into beginning the world’s destruction, Odin reveals the one thing that could stop Loki. The only problem? Ragnarok has already been unleashed.
The characters in this series are so alluring and unique. Though based on the Gods and Goddesses of Norse mythology, Lyra Wolf has breathed new life into them. This time around the children of Loki are brought to the forefront of the story. Watching Loki attempt a fatherly role, while also maintaining his steadfast attitude was entertaining, to say the least. Each time Loki navigated a new relationship he tested the boundaries, almost to the breaking point. And of course, he made assumptions and choices that were in his best interest, while steadfastly believing it was for the other party's own good. I love this complexity about his character, how he ultimately thinks he is doing the right thing based on his beliefs, yet ends up making mistakes along the way.
And of course, there are smart-aleck quips and mischief abound in this novel as Loki navigates the treacherous calling of Ragnarok. While the humor may not have been as vibrant in this second novel, it still serves a key purpose. With all the seriousness of Ragnarok and even an army of dead marching on the world, Loki’s words and wit break up the gloom and doom of the moment. It also contributes to the novel being a fast-paced and enjoyable read. While I read books that lean on the more serious side, The Order of Chaos stays poised in a perfect balance between light and dark tones.
The characters in The Nine Worlds Rising series are such a delight to read. The depth of emotion they feel and the way Lyra Wolf has captured them in words is truly remarkable. While fans of Norse mythology would enjoy this book and series, I highly recommend any fan of the fantasy genre give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Added: Thank you to Lyra Wolf for providing me a code for the audiobook. I voluntarily leave this review.
I loved this book as an ebook, and listening to it on audiobook took it to a whole new level! Great voice acting and I can't picture anyone else voicing Loki now! There is so much emotion added to the story with the narration.
This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Order of Chaos
For centuries Loki was locked away, tortured, and bound by magic. And for centuries he plotted the downfall of the Gods, the destruction of all, Ragnarok. When Loki is finally released, sparking the apocalypse is the first on his to-do list. But as the chaotic energy of Ragnarok lures him into beginning the world’s destruction, Odin reveals the one thing that could stop Loki. The only problem? Ragnarok has already been unleashed.
The characters in this series are so alluring and unique. Though based on the Gods and Goddesses of Norse mythology, Lyra Wolf has breathed new life into them. This time around the children of Loki are brought to the forefront of the story. Watching Loki attempt a fatherly role, while also maintaining his steadfast attitude was entertaining, to say the least. Each time Loki navigated a new relationship he tested the boundaries, almost to the breaking point. And of course, he made assumptions and choices that were in his best interest, while steadfastly believing it was for the other party's own good. I love this complexity about his character, how he ultimately thinks he is doing the right thing based on his beliefs, yet ends up making mistakes along the way.
And of course, there are smart-aleck quips and mischief abound in this novel as Loki navigates the treacherous calling of Ragnarok. While the humor may not have been as vibrant in this second novel, it still serves a key purpose. With all the seriousness of Ragnarok and even an army of dead marching on the world, Loki’s words and wit break up the gloom and doom of the moment. It also contributes to the novel being a fast-paced and enjoyable read. While I read books that lean on the more serious side, The Order of Chaos stays poised in a perfect balance between light and dark tones.
The characters in The Nine Worlds Rising series are such a delight to read. The depth of emotion they feel and the way Lyra Wolf has captured them in words is truly remarkable. While fans of Norse mythology would enjoy this book and series, I highly recommend any fan of the fantasy genre give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.
January 27, 2023
-Angst and slow burn
-interesting characters
-suspenseful storyline
-an original and unpredictable retelling of Norse mythology
-intense action scenes
-Loki character development
-get right into the action
-his children are all different but also so similar to him and I love their different coping
-too many shorter sentences and strange transitions
-The very end plot twist with the opposing element was so predictable.
-Second chance/bounce back romance after Loki decided she could be with someone else makes his choice irrelevant
-series could have ended here (if not for the end solution/suspicions)
-the literal spirit of fidelity just decided to forget about Loki for 500 years
-random POV in the beginning
-interesting characters
-suspenseful storyline
-an original and unpredictable retelling of Norse mythology
-intense action scenes
-Loki character development
-get right into the action
-his children are all different but also so similar to him and I love their different coping
-too many shorter sentences and strange transitions
-The very end plot twist with the opposing element was so predictable.
-Second chance/bounce back romance after Loki decided she could be with someone else makes his choice irrelevant
-series could have ended here (if not for the end solution/suspicions)
-the literal spirit of fidelity just decided to forget about Loki for 500 years
-random POV in the beginning
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2023
You know...
Loki is amazing as always. Missed interactions with Thor though. Narrating the audiobook, Casey Eade killed it again. Hands down, she (playing Wolf's Loki) is the only other Loki I'll bow to (after Hiddleston of course).
An enjoyable second book in this series.
Loki is amazing as always. Missed interactions with Thor though. Narrating the audiobook, Casey Eade killed it again. Hands down, she (playing Wolf's Loki) is the only other Loki I'll bow to (after Hiddleston of course).
An enjoyable second book in this series.
September 3, 2023
I love this series sooooo much!!! I just went through Raganarok with these characters and it was horrifying and riveting and ahh!! This story is great. Again, Loki is written perfectly and I love his witty quips - “Falafel” was my favorite. So much happened in this book and I was literally pacing around most of the day while reading this. So exciting!!! And the ending?? The preview for the next book?? EEE! 5 stars!! 🐍 🐺 🗡️
May 3, 2025
This continues the same humor and vibes of the first book. Things are heating up, plus there is additional drama between side characters and Loki (MC). There's more contemporary setting in this one which is meshed in with the retelling aspect. Honestly really enjoying this series, it's fun. I'll definitely continue to book 2.
September 9, 2021
full review to come but AAAAAHHHHHHHH WHAT DO YOU MEAN MARCH 2022 BEFORE I GET BOOK THREE????
TW for this book include: Gore, Death of a child, death of a parent, Violence, Blood, and Gaslighting
TW for this book include: Gore, Death of a child, death of a parent, Violence, Blood, and Gaslighting
October 28, 2021
This one was as good as Truth and Other Lies. Can't wait for the third novel! If you guys are looking for a good, action packed, Loki POV, Norse mythology retelling book, THEN TRY LYRA'S SERIES!
April 8, 2021
A FANTASTIC sequel from Lyra Wolf. Ties up loose ends from book 1 so can be read as a complete enough story but the preview of the next book makes it clear that there is more to come. If you are as invested in the Sigyn / Loki romance as me you won't be disappointed. As with book 1 the action scenes are done incredibly well - everything is fast and snappy but really clearly laid out, at times it feels like you are watching a really good movie. Loki is as hilarious and witty as ever and I love the author's sly humour. Sigyn, again, is a wonderfully fully fleshed character and is so smart and clever, not a paper cut out like you sometimes find in fictional couples. This girl is scientific and into sharing knowledge about women's health and I am HERE FOR IT.
Looking forward to book 3. Will continue to buy in paperback so I can enjoy and reread in future.
SLIGHT SPOILER:
Fenrir the vegan hippy who meditates and practices mindfulness to keep from letting his murder wolf free was MY FAVORITE THING EVER.
(Review cross posted from amazon uk)
Looking forward to book 3. Will continue to buy in paperback so I can enjoy and reread in future.
SLIGHT SPOILER:
Fenrir the vegan hippy who meditates and practices mindfulness to keep from letting his murder wolf free was MY FAVORITE THING EVER.
(Review cross posted from amazon uk)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2021
Chaos Rising is a breathtaking follow-up to Truth and Other Lies. Lyra Wolf carries the reader into a tumultuous fury with Loki, our favorite trickster god typically full of snark and laughs but lately more of the vengeful variety. His journey to take his revenge on all the realms and destroy those who hurt him leads to an opportunity to visit his children along the way, each having a role to play in starting the apocalypse (Hel is my personal hero and I would kill for this badass woman).
This book has all the wit of the first, with a raw exploration of Loki's traumas that escalated to the point of ragnarok. I appreciate the authenticity of the story and the artistry that allows for significant character growth while it remains the same fast-paced and truly fun read that I have come to expect from Lyra Wolf. I particularly appreciate her portrayal of a gender fluid Loki, something that reads true to the spirit of the myth. And the chemistry between him and Odin - HOT. TOXIC. Everything I need.
This book has all the wit of the first, with a raw exploration of Loki's traumas that escalated to the point of ragnarok. I appreciate the authenticity of the story and the artistry that allows for significant character growth while it remains the same fast-paced and truly fun read that I have come to expect from Lyra Wolf. I particularly appreciate her portrayal of a gender fluid Loki, something that reads true to the spirit of the myth. And the chemistry between him and Odin - HOT. TOXIC. Everything I need.
January 10, 2022
First of all: The character development between book 1 & 2 is amazingggg.
Loki still is his cocky self but he has to realize that Sigyn also likes Falael and that he might be better suited for Sigyn's wellbeing. Even though he hopes that she will come back to him -which she eventually does anyway- he realises that he must set her free and make her own decisions.
It was also fascinating to see Loki interact with his children and I'm happy that he finally has gotten over his relationship with Odin - at least mostly.
As for Frigg I had hoped that she would die a gruesome death for what she did to Nari and Narfi but maybe Book 3 will give us all that satisfaction.
Addition: I saw both plottwists coming and I couldnt be more proud bc of that :)
Loki still is his cocky self but he has to realize that Sigyn also likes Falael and that he might be better suited for Sigyn's wellbeing. Even though he hopes that she will come back to him -which she eventually does anyway- he realises that he must set her free and make her own decisions.
It was also fascinating to see Loki interact with his children and I'm happy that he finally has gotten over his relationship with Odin - at least mostly.
As for Frigg I had hoped that she would die a gruesome death for what she did to Nari and Narfi but maybe Book 3 will give us all that satisfaction.
Addition: I saw both plottwists coming and I couldnt be more proud bc of that :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2022
This series better have a happy ever after because it is putting me through it
December 16, 2021
The first book made me snicker. This one made me downright laugh. Some moments in the story are absolute golden angst that hit all the right notes. Will be rereading it. And ordering the next when it comes out.
October 30, 2021
I picked up this book immediately after I finished the first one. Just like the first book, I greatly enjoyed this one!
December 16, 2021
Another Lyra Wolf book finished in less than 24 hours! Really loved this one, especially the way it ended. I will never get enough of Loki. Looking forward to the next book!
January 10, 2022
Good light romance with humor and Norse mythology. I liked it just as much as the first!
June 6, 2024
4.5
I don't even know where to begin with how this book made me feel. Loki had every right to be bitter and angry and ready to ignite Ragnarok. How could the gods even be angry at him when this was their fault to begin with. I hated them along with Loki as more and more of the gods deceptions came to light. He may have been a trickster, but the lies they told him were beyond heinous!!
I loved seeing Loki reunited with all his children, even through the complications of their relationships. I believe he really grew as a person in this book and I love love loved seeing the character development ❤️.
I felt bittersweet about him and Sigyn. Everyone had 500 years to heal and forget the past. Loki didn't. So him fighting for her was still so raw and painful for him.
I want to say so much more but don't want to spoil anything. I absolutely love this series and seeing through Loki's POV. He's a hero, even if it's only in his eyes sometimes.
I don't even know where to begin with how this book made me feel. Loki had every right to be bitter and angry and ready to ignite Ragnarok. How could the gods even be angry at him when this was their fault to begin with. I hated them along with Loki as more and more of the gods deceptions came to light. He may have been a trickster, but the lies they told him were beyond heinous!!
I loved seeing Loki reunited with all his children, even through the complications of their relationships. I believe he really grew as a person in this book and I love love loved seeing the character development ❤️.
I felt bittersweet about him and Sigyn. Everyone had 500 years to heal and forget the past. Loki didn't. So him fighting for her was still so raw and painful for him.
I want to say so much more but don't want to spoil anything. I absolutely love this series and seeing through Loki's POV. He's a hero, even if it's only in his eyes sometimes.
July 28, 2024
A tear ran down her cheek. She reached out a timid hand and skated her fingertips down the side of my face, as if uncertain I was real. “How?” she asked, her voice cracking. I took her hand. I was real. I was here. “Does it matter?” I said. “I’ve found you.”
//
Another lovely addition to the Nine Worlds Rising series, Chaos Rising follows Loki on his quest to initially start--and then as soon as he realizes that Sigyn is alive--stop Ragnarok. I loved seeing the gods interact with the modern era, and the exploration of what healing being, albeit very valid, rage, for the sake of yourself and those you love means. So of course, I loved everything about this.
//
“I am yours, Sigyn. Now. Forever. To my last breath.” She clasped my face between her hands, pulling me closer. “How can you still want me?” Her eyes searched mine. “After all you suffered because of me. For me.” She rubbed her thumbs across my cheeks and through my tears. “And I’d do it all again.”
//
Another lovely addition to the Nine Worlds Rising series, Chaos Rising follows Loki on his quest to initially start--and then as soon as he realizes that Sigyn is alive--stop Ragnarok. I loved seeing the gods interact with the modern era, and the exploration of what healing being, albeit very valid, rage, for the sake of yourself and those you love means. So of course, I loved everything about this.
//
“I am yours, Sigyn. Now. Forever. To my last breath.” She clasped my face between her hands, pulling me closer. “How can you still want me?” Her eyes searched mine. “After all you suffered because of me. For me.” She rubbed her thumbs across my cheeks and through my tears. “And I’d do it all again.”
September 7, 2025
This is the second book In the "truth and other lies" series, and I have to say I enjoyed this one even more than the first. With more of a quest based plot, I had fun journeying with Loki and a few companions, who he has humorous interactions with that really showcase his character growth, and seeing them face new threats that signal the events of Ragnarok. Quite predictable, but the execution was just a fun ride and a little crazy, including a wolf shifter who is a vegan food blogger and an elf name Falael who Loki calls Falafel. I enjoyed the moral questions and themes this one poses as it centers Loki enacting Ragnorok, making you question if the events leading to the end of the world were the doing of Loki or actually Odin as he feared it most and worked his whole life to prevent it, but perhaps his actions are what actually sparked the catalyst. A story about fate, choices, and morality in a fast paced world combining norse mythology with a twist, and modern society of midgard.
July 13, 2022
To be honest, I liked this one more than the first, maybe purely because it proceeded at breakneck speed. There was some good building in the first, but it’s established now and we launched right into it!
As Loki reunited with each member of his family, I felt the pang as he realized the truth behind each betrayal, every lie. The relationship between truth and lies is a lot more present in this second installment, but not so obvious that it stops being enjoyable. I love the presentation of Fenrir and Jorg, and I hope there’s more Jorg in number three.
Transitions between chapters were still a little stilted, and there tends to be an overuse of short staccato sentences, but it reads as actual thoughts feel, so it works.
As Loki reunited with each member of his family, I felt the pang as he realized the truth behind each betrayal, every lie. The relationship between truth and lies is a lot more present in this second installment, but not so obvious that it stops being enjoyable. I love the presentation of Fenrir and Jorg, and I hope there’s more Jorg in number three.
Transitions between chapters were still a little stilted, and there tends to be an overuse of short staccato sentences, but it reads as actual thoughts feel, so it works.
July 20, 2025
I admit that at first I thought this might be a DNF or one I restart another time. There just seemed to be too much modern sounding talk for a God that had been tied up for 500 years however that did pass and returned to more fitting language use. Loki continues to be sassy and in this book your heart just pulls for him. Why can’t he just have good things? Why can’t he just be allowed to be happy?
Something I really liked is that there’s no slow build up. Every chapter is meaningful and takes you to the next part of the story. It’s not predictable and I liked the progression of getting to know Lokis surviving children.
There were no redundant characters, no side quests etc which made the book easy to read. I instantly saved book 3 to kindle so I can see what happens next to Loki.
Something I really liked is that there’s no slow build up. Every chapter is meaningful and takes you to the next part of the story. It’s not predictable and I liked the progression of getting to know Lokis surviving children.
There were no redundant characters, no side quests etc which made the book easy to read. I instantly saved book 3 to kindle so I can see what happens next to Loki.
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