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The Shadows of Valhalla #0.5
Shield-Maiden: Winternights Gambit
An heir to ashes.
A princess without a throne.
Ervie, the daughter of the warrior-shaman Jarl Mjord and the völva Lady Blomma, was born to rule two jarldoms and wield a magical bloodline reaching to Asgard itself. But the Norns have not been kind. Her father dead, now all she has is a famous name and a lingering sense of what might have been. But this Winternights blót, the Ǽsir will conspire to set the Reindeer Princess on her path toward destiny.
Fans of Vikings and The Last Kingdom will relish The Shadows of Valhalla series. This sweeping Viking historical fantasy retells the story of the second heroine named Hervor—called Ervie by those who know her well—the inspiring shield-maiden from the Norse Hervarar Saga.
Readers of the Road to Valhalla series will love this bridge prequel novella between Hervor’s tale in the Road to Valhalla series and that of the shield-maiden Ervie.
*Please note: Winternights Gambit is a 13k word novella prequel to the Shadows of Valhalla series.
A princess without a throne.
Ervie, the daughter of the warrior-shaman Jarl Mjord and the völva Lady Blomma, was born to rule two jarldoms and wield a magical bloodline reaching to Asgard itself. But the Norns have not been kind. Her father dead, now all she has is a famous name and a lingering sense of what might have been. But this Winternights blót, the Ǽsir will conspire to set the Reindeer Princess on her path toward destiny.
Fans of Vikings and The Last Kingdom will relish The Shadows of Valhalla series. This sweeping Viking historical fantasy retells the story of the second heroine named Hervor—called Ervie by those who know her well—the inspiring shield-maiden from the Norse Hervarar Saga.
Readers of the Road to Valhalla series will love this bridge prequel novella between Hervor’s tale in the Road to Valhalla series and that of the shield-maiden Ervie.
*Please note: Winternights Gambit is a 13k word novella prequel to the Shadows of Valhalla series.
62 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2021
242 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Karsak
90 books1,705 followersNew York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
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Join my newsletter and get Under the Strawberry Moon for FREE: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the 6th in a series. Start with Shield Maiden: Under the Howling Moon.
I liked this short little tale. I still have a sour taste in my mouth from the way book 5 ended but I felt this was a good novella to bridge the gap between the end of Hervor’s story and the beginning of Ervie’s.
Winternights Gambit was short but it had some pretty cool magic and it let you see a few faces of people who are now gone. I did very much enjoy that. I think it’s a good start place for Ervie and where ever her tale takes us.
This is the 6th in a series. Start with Shield Maiden: Under the Howling Moon.
I liked this short little tale. I still have a sour taste in my mouth from the way book 5 ended but I felt this was a good novella to bridge the gap between the end of Hervor’s story and the beginning of Ervie’s.
Winternights Gambit was short but it had some pretty cool magic and it let you see a few faces of people who are now gone. I did very much enjoy that. I think it’s a good start place for Ervie and where ever her tale takes us.
November 22, 2021
Winternights Gambit starts out a few years after the ending of Shield Maiden: Under the Dark Moon and follows Erive (Hervor the second) as she comes home once again. It teases of answers to questions the characters (and I) have regarding Blomma, Ervie, life, history, lineage and so much more.
I really love the world this author has created and the vivid details she intertwins within the pages. Time stands still for me, and I become a part of these stories as I read them. In fact, I could feel the cold, the questioning, and the presence of the characters in this novella. This is a wonderful teaser for what is to come.
This novella can be read as a standalone, with no need to read Shield Maiden series first. However, I am ALWAYS going to recommend reading it because it is a brilliant adventure, I don't want anyone to miss. That said, choose your path or allow the Gods to do it for you. *Wink, wink*
*For those who read the first series (Shield Maiden) this short teaser of a novella is a nice balm for the aftermath of that ending (I don't know about you, but I still have lots of feelings, LOL). I really enjoyed seeing my favorite characters from the first series and knowing that they are well and happy and living life.
Now, while we wait for the next story, I highly suggest any other book from this author to fill the time.
I really love the world this author has created and the vivid details she intertwins within the pages. Time stands still for me, and I become a part of these stories as I read them. In fact, I could feel the cold, the questioning, and the presence of the characters in this novella. This is a wonderful teaser for what is to come.
This novella can be read as a standalone, with no need to read Shield Maiden series first. However, I am ALWAYS going to recommend reading it because it is a brilliant adventure, I don't want anyone to miss. That said, choose your path or allow the Gods to do it for you. *Wink, wink*
*For those who read the first series (Shield Maiden) this short teaser of a novella is a nice balm for the aftermath of that ending (I don't know about you, but I still have lots of feelings, LOL). I really enjoyed seeing my favorite characters from the first series and knowing that they are well and happy and living life.
Now, while we wait for the next story, I highly suggest any other book from this author to fill the time.
February 4, 2022
So excited to go back to this world and revisit favored characters.
Stop right there. If you haven’t read The Road to Valhalla series, Hervor’s story, you will be missing out on a lot of important history. Yes, this can be read without it but why cut your enjoyment of tremendous world-building and story-weaving that is a hallmark of Melanie Karsack’s writing. I am so excited to be going back to this world and revisiting beloved characters. Melanie Karsack is a must-buy author for me. I’ve read everything she’s published. The blending of real historic research into fantasy creates an immersive experience that makes you feel like you’re really there with the characters and invested in what happens to them. That kind of talent is rare. This series and Hervor’s are based on Viking legend but Ms. Karsack also has a Celtic series about Lady MacBeth and is currently writing a series about the Celtic warrior Queen Boudicca. I love every one of them. I hope you come to love her stories just as much.
Stop right there. If you haven’t read The Road to Valhalla series, Hervor’s story, you will be missing out on a lot of important history. Yes, this can be read without it but why cut your enjoyment of tremendous world-building and story-weaving that is a hallmark of Melanie Karsack’s writing. I am so excited to be going back to this world and revisiting beloved characters. Melanie Karsack is a must-buy author for me. I’ve read everything she’s published. The blending of real historic research into fantasy creates an immersive experience that makes you feel like you’re really there with the characters and invested in what happens to them. That kind of talent is rare. This series and Hervor’s are based on Viking legend but Ms. Karsack also has a Celtic series about Lady MacBeth and is currently writing a series about the Celtic warrior Queen Boudicca. I love every one of them. I hope you come to love her stories just as much.
November 22, 2021
It always fun to be in the Viking World again. If you read Hervor's story you will feel like your coming home reading this book. If you haven't read that series yet, you can start here but once you do you will want to go back and read the first series. That series is so good and sucks you right into the pages. I always feel like I am with the characters in the books written by Melanie. She knows how to paint a scene and keeps you wanting more. This novella is a quick read that makes you want more from the Vikings. I look forward to more from this series. I am leaving this review voluntarily after being sent a free book.
November 23, 2021
I absolutely adored the Road to Valhalla series & Hervor's story is my all time favorite viking tale to date. I was so sad when it ended so when I heard this story was releasing, I was beyond excited and dove right in!
Winternights Gambit is the prequel introduction to the Shadows of Valhalla series and I am already addicted! The author does an amazing job creating a very vivid world and outstanding characters. I became completely immersed in this tale and loved seeing glimpses of previous characters as well as the new. I can't wait to continue this journey and follow along as Ervie tries to find her way in this viking adventure!!
Winternights Gambit is the prequel introduction to the Shadows of Valhalla series and I am already addicted! The author does an amazing job creating a very vivid world and outstanding characters. I became completely immersed in this tale and loved seeing glimpses of previous characters as well as the new. I can't wait to continue this journey and follow along as Ervie tries to find her way in this viking adventure!!
January 16, 2022
Such a tease!
After staying up until nearly 1:30am flying through the last book in Hervor’s series, I have to admit that I was a little doubtful heading into this short story (novella?) that it could continue on the story as successfully with Ervie, Hervor the Second, as the protagonist. However in just these few short chapters, the author managed to suck me back into the world that now sees two important locations in the previous series nothing but ashes. Ends on a mysterious note, but it looks like I’m signing up to take this journey with Ervie come February when the first book is released.
3.5 stars ⭐️
After staying up until nearly 1:30am flying through the last book in Hervor’s series, I have to admit that I was a little doubtful heading into this short story (novella?) that it could continue on the story as successfully with Ervie, Hervor the Second, as the protagonist. However in just these few short chapters, the author managed to suck me back into the world that now sees two important locations in the previous series nothing but ashes. Ends on a mysterious note, but it looks like I’m signing up to take this journey with Ervie come February when the first book is released.
3.5 stars ⭐️
November 22, 2021
This is going to be a GOOD series! I love these historical adventures that Melanie Karsak weaves. Rich is lore, mythology, they pull you in and it is amazing to dwell amongst these characters. This is the start of another such series with beautifully crafted characters that live and breathe, fight and love within the pages of these books. I look forward to each new book and enjoy reading them immensely. Ervie has such a decision to make and I hope she follows her heart. I look forward to experiencing her journey!
February 17, 2023
Beginning another brilliant series
Love the work of Melanie Karsak as one of the best historical writers. This prequel introduces Ervie, daughter of the Reindeer King and Blomma, adopted daughter of the shield maiden Hervor and King Hofund of Grund. Excited for this series, centering around the second Hervor who also has a saga written about her. If you love Vikings, The Last Kingdom or the historical series The Circle of Cerridwen, you will love these books set in Scandinavia. 5 stars for this prequel. Highly recommend.
Love the work of Melanie Karsak as one of the best historical writers. This prequel introduces Ervie, daughter of the Reindeer King and Blomma, adopted daughter of the shield maiden Hervor and King Hofund of Grund. Excited for this series, centering around the second Hervor who also has a saga written about her. If you love Vikings, The Last Kingdom or the historical series The Circle of Cerridwen, you will love these books set in Scandinavia. 5 stars for this prequel. Highly recommend.
December 7, 2023
Never be afraid of your power…
…and use it only for good.
One of the characters pointed out that there is a home we know and a home where we *belong*…
Have you ever had that experience?
A wise woman once said:
‘If you give pieces of your heart everywhere, when the time comes to give it fully, there will be nothing left.’
Great advice for a long Winternight that is still valid on a hot summer’s eve.
Does Ervie heed the call of the reindeer? We’ll have to read ‘Shield-Maiden: Gambit of Blood’ to find out…
…and use it only for good.
One of the characters pointed out that there is a home we know and a home where we *belong*…
Have you ever had that experience?
A wise woman once said:
‘If you give pieces of your heart everywhere, when the time comes to give it fully, there will be nothing left.’
Great advice for a long Winternight that is still valid on a hot summer’s eve.
Does Ervie heed the call of the reindeer? We’ll have to read ‘Shield-Maiden: Gambit of Blood’ to find out…
November 23, 2021
This is a short and beautiful read and a very promising prequel to a new series. It feels really nice to be back in Melanie Karsak's Norse world, and also to meet some of the beloved characters of the Road to Valhalla saga. I enjoyed meeting Hervor -aka Ervie- who is so unlike her famous grandmother but still so much similar. I could feel her confusion, her dark thoughts and her longing to be ... more? herself? to belong? - Time, and the next books, will tell.
December 12, 2021
Love this
This book is giving us more of the character that we love so much from the Road To Valhalla Series. The daughter of the reindeer King doesn't want to live in shadow but they are all around her. I cannot wait to read more this will be the new beginning for these character and we will see what Hervor granddaughter will do. Skol readers
This book is giving us more of the character that we love so much from the Road To Valhalla Series. The daughter of the reindeer King doesn't want to live in shadow but they are all around her. I cannot wait to read more this will be the new beginning for these character and we will see what Hervor granddaughter will do. Skol readers
March 25, 2022
Shield Maiden : Winter nights Gambit Melanie Karsak
A continuation of the Shield Maiden series that features the children of the primary characters . The roles they will play and the magic and mystical settings that will define their character and life. I enjoyed this book immensely!!
A continuation of the Shield Maiden series that features the children of the primary characters . The roles they will play and the magic and mystical settings that will define their character and life. I enjoyed this book immensely!!
April 17, 2023
A beautiful world, so surreal and yet so real at the same time. A heroine that I see so much of myself in!
And Blomma...a woman who in our place and time would have been diagnosed with autism and cast aside...one of the most powerful individuals in the kingdom. It should be all about the ability-not the disability!
And Blomma...a woman who in our place and time would have been diagnosed with autism and cast aside...one of the most powerful individuals in the kingdom. It should be all about the ability-not the disability!
June 24, 2025
Five star per usual from Miss Melanie! I whipped through this in about 45 minutes, and after taking a break from the story of Hervor I was most definitely brought to tears by this book. I absolutely love the continuation into the next generation, looking forward to the rest of these ones & looking forward to being back in this world!!
November 23, 2021
A sneak peak into a new series with all the action, drama and magical mysticism of it's predecessor. If you liked Shield Maiden and fell in love with Hervor, then joining Ervie on her adventure will be like coming home.
December 7, 2021
This is an amazing start to a new adventure in to an amazing and interesting Viking world. This gives me a wonderful glimpse into this upcoming series and I am very excited to see what happens in this new series. I love Norse mythology and I need more, soon!!!
March 13, 2022
Described as "A bridge novella" Yes, it is. Carrying the Sagas forward. Succinctly woven. One can feel the auroras colorfully spinning the tale; dazzling the reader; begging for more as the shimmering tracks disappear taking the tale with it.
March 27, 2022
The story of Hervor's granddaughter begins and I can't wait. This prequel is a very quick read and fulfills all the promise of the first five Shield-Maiden novels. I definitely plan to finish the rest of these.
August 18, 2024
A New Beginning
We now are going to be privy to the stories of the next generation. Blomma's twins are now 16 and ready to set out. This is a revealing look at Ervie and her quest to find her way. The ending scenes are very touching and set the stage for the next book.
We now are going to be privy to the stories of the next generation. Blomma's twins are now 16 and ready to set out. This is a revealing look at Ervie and her quest to find her way. The ending scenes are very touching and set the stage for the next book.
November 23, 2021
Promising a great new series. Can't wait!
November 25, 2021
Great story that serves as an introduction to a new shieldmaiden. The world is well thought out and vividly described and the characters are wonderful.
December 11, 2021
Wonderful!
Charming story of a girl coming into her own. I Loved the story and the references of characters and heros.
Charming story of a girl coming into her own. I Loved the story and the references of characters and heros.
December 17, 2021
I CAN'T WAIT FOR THIS RELEASE!
Great teaser for the upcoming book. I can't wait to see what awaits Ervie and her friends and family. Come on February!
Great teaser for the upcoming book. I can't wait to see what awaits Ervie and her friends and family. Come on February!
December 26, 2021
This is one book that time stands still for. Absolutely fantastic even though short.
February 8, 2022
I love anything set in this beautiful series.
February 17, 2022
too short!
March 8, 2022
Great read
What a promising prequel. Now I want to know what awaits Ervie and her family.
I love Melanie Karsak’s books!
What a promising prequel. Now I want to know what awaits Ervie and her family.
I love Melanie Karsak’s books!
April 9, 2022
Great read
So very very short but definitely drew me in. Love Melanie Karsak and her books . Can't wait to read more
So very very short but definitely drew me in. Love Melanie Karsak and her books . Can't wait to read more
March 17, 2023
Teaser
Ok....this short teaser story does it's job well. I dare you to put this prequel away without finishing it. Enter the Viking/Norse sagas in a way not seen before , BELIEVE !
Ok....this short teaser story does it's job well. I dare you to put this prequel away without finishing it. Enter the Viking/Norse sagas in a way not seen before , BELIEVE !
March 27, 2023
Another series starts!
Interesting start to new series. I love when you get a prequel in series. Get the books and leave your reviews.
Interesting start to new series. I love when you get a prequel in series. Get the books and leave your reviews.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews