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Realm Walker #1
Realm Walker's Rising
Fate’s a bitch.
What I thought was just another after work coffee stop turned into the start of a series of events that threw me on a new path.
Enter Rune, the most attractive man I’d ever seen. Somehow he found my awkward, shy self endearing. And something about him filled in the emptiness I’d felt my entire life even while surrounded by my friends and family. My soul recognized him and my body came alive from his heated touches and praises.
He spoke of reincarnation and how all the myths were real. He told me I was the reincarnation of someone special. But he couldn’t tell me who without fracturing my mind.
After meeting him, strange things started happening. Someone was always watching me, everywhere I went, everything I did.
(Naturally,) Rune was the only one I could trust to keep me safe from this mystery threat.
While on the run, I was forced to figure out who I was and what I was. Both past and present. And how Rune played into this knowing who I was in my past life.
Please check the front part of the book with a note from the author that lists components of the book and series that some are allergic to. Go to the author's social media on tick tock (TT) willowmcquerry.author where they are listed in the pinned video.
What I thought was just another after work coffee stop turned into the start of a series of events that threw me on a new path.
Enter Rune, the most attractive man I’d ever seen. Somehow he found my awkward, shy self endearing. And something about him filled in the emptiness I’d felt my entire life even while surrounded by my friends and family. My soul recognized him and my body came alive from his heated touches and praises.
He spoke of reincarnation and how all the myths were real. He told me I was the reincarnation of someone special. But he couldn’t tell me who without fracturing my mind.
After meeting him, strange things started happening. Someone was always watching me, everywhere I went, everything I did.
(Naturally,) Rune was the only one I could trust to keep me safe from this mystery threat.
While on the run, I was forced to figure out who I was and what I was. Both past and present. And how Rune played into this knowing who I was in my past life.
Please check the front part of the book with a note from the author that lists components of the book and series that some are allergic to. Go to the author's social media on tick tock (TT) willowmcquerry.author where they are listed in the pinned video.
634 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2022
51 people are currently reading
713 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 19, 2022
A fantasy book that is easily digestible, a music playlist, and a character pronunciation list?
Best part, it’s an ADULT fantasy - with spice!!
This book was so much fun to read.
Fantasy can be hard to keep track of and at times you can feel lost throughout the story. However, this does an amazing job at showcasing fantasy without being confusing.
This will check all the boxes: plot, spice, action, suspense.
Bonus: The sex scenes in this were out of this world - literally!
Rune, our male main character, is this gorgeous man. He is huge and almost god-like in complex. He also has this thick accent related to Old Norse. He is straightforward, but he is NOT an alpha asshole. He is endearing and composes great patience. I found myself falling helplessly for Rune. My heart ached and reached out for him. Maybe because he simped first..
To top it off the dirty talk on this man will leave you panting. Cue in example….
“You’re doing so good by taking all of me”
He has a praise kink for sure!! I am living for it!
Our female main character is Isa. She is a 29 year old who suffers from anxiety and confidence - so relatable. Isa is also an overthinker and communicating with the opposite gender deems impossible. I connected so well with her inner monologue. However, her best friend Aaliyah is the complete opposite of her. I find this most relatable. I love seeing friendship dynamics like this.
The prologue will instantly hook you in and chapter one will leave you laughing!!
The book starts out during a time of battle, as if it was all a dream. Standing in a coffee shop, Isa meets the most beautiful man she has ever seen, and he has a thick accent - Rune. Immediately you feel this connection between the two characters. Rune and Isa start messaging back and forth, but when they are together it’s as if their hearts sing for one another. As time goes on, Isa becomes more and more confused and to why he asks certain questions of her. Nothing makes sense. He seems to know her more than she knows herself. Isa is left to figure out what is going on her own.
Can her mind stay cohesive, without it breaking under pressure? How do you function when you feel lost all of the time?
*I received an ARC, but this is my honest review*
Best part, it’s an ADULT fantasy - with spice!!
This book was so much fun to read.
Fantasy can be hard to keep track of and at times you can feel lost throughout the story. However, this does an amazing job at showcasing fantasy without being confusing.
This will check all the boxes: plot, spice, action, suspense.
Bonus: The sex scenes in this were out of this world - literally!
Rune, our male main character, is this gorgeous man. He is huge and almost god-like in complex. He also has this thick accent related to Old Norse. He is straightforward, but he is NOT an alpha asshole. He is endearing and composes great patience. I found myself falling helplessly for Rune. My heart ached and reached out for him. Maybe because he simped first..
To top it off the dirty talk on this man will leave you panting. Cue in example….
“You’re doing so good by taking all of me”
He has a praise kink for sure!! I am living for it!
Our female main character is Isa. She is a 29 year old who suffers from anxiety and confidence - so relatable. Isa is also an overthinker and communicating with the opposite gender deems impossible. I connected so well with her inner monologue. However, her best friend Aaliyah is the complete opposite of her. I find this most relatable. I love seeing friendship dynamics like this.
The prologue will instantly hook you in and chapter one will leave you laughing!!
The book starts out during a time of battle, as if it was all a dream. Standing in a coffee shop, Isa meets the most beautiful man she has ever seen, and he has a thick accent - Rune. Immediately you feel this connection between the two characters. Rune and Isa start messaging back and forth, but when they are together it’s as if their hearts sing for one another. As time goes on, Isa becomes more and more confused and to why he asks certain questions of her. Nothing makes sense. He seems to know her more than she knows herself. Isa is left to figure out what is going on her own.
Can her mind stay cohesive, without it breaking under pressure? How do you function when you feel lost all of the time?
*I received an ARC, but this is my honest review*
February 20, 2022
I loved this paranormal fantasy romance novel, which is the story of Isa and Rune. It takes place in today's world, with travels to other realms and dangerous situations, involving reincarnation, portals, beguiling heroine in Isa and handsome, sexy male Hero in Rune, as well as his friends, all sexy, handsome males. Its a page turner, and I can't wait to read the next book in this series. There are some mature scenes in this novel. I was given an ARC for my honest review.
January 15, 2023
The Book: Realm Walker's Rising
Author: Willow McQuerry
POV: First-Person, Male lead has one chapter, otherwise FMC POV
Triggers: Blood, Violence, Murder, Death of Family (off page), Scars, Talks of afterlife and death, Mental Health, PTSD, Suicidal Thoughts, Self-Deprecating Thoughts, Graphic Sexual Assault, Attempted Rape, Alcohol, Stalking, Graphic bombing and war descriptions.
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Type: First Book; Part of Realm Walker Series
Rating: 3/5
Spice: 2/5
Cliffhanger: We're not talking about it. She gave us fair warning.
My book bestie was lucky enough to get an ARC copy and the only thing she told me about this series, was that I needed to read it. ASAP.
So like a good friend I am, as soon as it was released, I ran to it.
As someone who suffers from anxiety, I absolutely loved our lead character Isa. I loved how she looked at the world and it was like someone took my point of view and put it in a book. It was just all so relatable and I'm so thankful for it. I feel like mental health isn't mentioned much in romance and if it is, it's done so quietly and neatly. This was in your face, raw, and tragic - everything that it should be. Absolutely well done and fucking chef's kiss.
I felt so bad for Isa at times because girl. 25. TWENTY FIVE? IYKYK.
Author: Willow McQuerry
POV: First-Person, Male lead has one chapter, otherwise FMC POV
Triggers: Blood, Violence, Murder, Death of Family (off page), Scars, Talks of afterlife and death, Mental Health, PTSD, Suicidal Thoughts, Self-Deprecating Thoughts, Graphic Sexual Assault, Attempted Rape, Alcohol, Stalking, Graphic bombing and war descriptions.
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Type: First Book; Part of Realm Walker Series
Rating: 3/5
Spice: 2/5
Cliffhanger: We're not talking about it. She gave us fair warning.
My book bestie was lucky enough to get an ARC copy and the only thing she told me about this series, was that I needed to read it. ASAP.
So like a good friend I am, as soon as it was released, I ran to it.
As someone who suffers from anxiety, I absolutely loved our lead character Isa. I loved how she looked at the world and it was like someone took my point of view and put it in a book. It was just all so relatable and I'm so thankful for it. I feel like mental health isn't mentioned much in romance and if it is, it's done so quietly and neatly. This was in your face, raw, and tragic - everything that it should be. Absolutely well done and fucking chef's kiss.
I felt so bad for Isa at times because girl. 25. TWENTY FIVE? IYKYK.
July 9, 2021
I love this book! I love how strong Isa is and Rune is my new book boyfriend. I love the ups and downs as well as the love story. I read it every chance I could because it was really hard to put down. I can't wait to find out what happens next! I was given an ARC for my honest review.
July 1, 2021
A great story and I can't wait for the next book.
June 16, 2022
Unlike Anything I’ve Ever Read
Minor spoilers ahead because I can’t formulate a review without discussing the adventure I just went on.
So we meet Isa - a innocent, kind, kinda sheltered human. Got blue hair, pretty, apparently has a breast piercing, and *crippling* anxiety. Like, every five minutes, Isa is spiralling into whirlpools of vicious thoughts. She’s got a routine and, while not happy, she’s existing like everyone else does.
Enter Rune - blonde, gorgeous, and yeah baffling Rune. Events happen. What might have been insta-love is restrained by the anxiety and by Rune’s secrets. After being attacked, Isa is on the run and she “portals” into a snow world. What’s that?? Yeah, portals! Like, into a different realm!!
The story takes a sharp ninety degree turn when she nearly freezes to death, being told by a *mysterious bodiless voice* how to get rescued. Oh wait, Rune is a GOD! And she’s a reincarnation?! But she’s in danger. Then comes more running, more messy portaling, and finding a wickedly attractive quintet of “vikings” with names I mostly can’t remember - my favourite is Slatra cause he’s into voyuerism - but they’re introduced at around 60% and only get more interesting.
DID I MENTION the massive quantity of SPICE?! Like?? Wowza. Every other chapter, there’s rubbings of body parts and groaning and moaning. Rune is insatiable and it seems like the one thing Isa can’t anxiety spiral away from is seggsy times. In her bed, in the shower, in the forest, in an inn, while on the run, and just… everywhere. I’m not complaining.
So… this review?
Willow McQuerry took on the daunting challenge of writing a character who might die if she finds out too much information all at once. So how to write a character who discovers realms, magic, and a god who is absolutely obsessed with her - but write it all in a cohesive way without actually letting the character figure everything out? The answer, and the only reasonable way, is… Isa has the most accurate representation of anxiety that I have ever encountered. She’s been torn out of her routines into complete unknown - not just magical realms but being loved by a man who she views as way out of her league. It is exhausting to constantly have anxiety attacks, and it keeps her frazzled enough that she can’t figure things out - BUT the story told around Isa’s anxiety is WILD.
Gods and realms and magic and a massive battle and MAGIC and just… I want more. I loathe the cliffhanger, cause I normally don’t read unfinished series, but I don’t regret reading this. I just want more Rune and more Isa and MORE SLATRA!!!
The writing style is unique but the humour shines through even in the midst of describing anxiety spirals. Truly. Five stars! I can’t wait for the sequel.
Minor spoilers ahead because I can’t formulate a review without discussing the adventure I just went on.
So we meet Isa - a innocent, kind, kinda sheltered human. Got blue hair, pretty, apparently has a breast piercing, and *crippling* anxiety. Like, every five minutes, Isa is spiralling into whirlpools of vicious thoughts. She’s got a routine and, while not happy, she’s existing like everyone else does.
Enter Rune - blonde, gorgeous, and yeah baffling Rune. Events happen. What might have been insta-love is restrained by the anxiety and by Rune’s secrets. After being attacked, Isa is on the run and she “portals” into a snow world. What’s that?? Yeah, portals! Like, into a different realm!!
The story takes a sharp ninety degree turn when she nearly freezes to death, being told by a *mysterious bodiless voice* how to get rescued. Oh wait, Rune is a GOD! And she’s a reincarnation?! But she’s in danger. Then comes more running, more messy portaling, and finding a wickedly attractive quintet of “vikings” with names I mostly can’t remember - my favourite is Slatra cause he’s into voyuerism - but they’re introduced at around 60% and only get more interesting.
DID I MENTION the massive quantity of SPICE?! Like?? Wowza. Every other chapter, there’s rubbings of body parts and groaning and moaning. Rune is insatiable and it seems like the one thing Isa can’t anxiety spiral away from is seggsy times. In her bed, in the shower, in the forest, in an inn, while on the run, and just… everywhere. I’m not complaining.
So… this review?
Willow McQuerry took on the daunting challenge of writing a character who might die if she finds out too much information all at once. So how to write a character who discovers realms, magic, and a god who is absolutely obsessed with her - but write it all in a cohesive way without actually letting the character figure everything out? The answer, and the only reasonable way, is… Isa has the most accurate representation of anxiety that I have ever encountered. She’s been torn out of her routines into complete unknown - not just magical realms but being loved by a man who she views as way out of her league. It is exhausting to constantly have anxiety attacks, and it keeps her frazzled enough that she can’t figure things out - BUT the story told around Isa’s anxiety is WILD.
Gods and realms and magic and a massive battle and MAGIC and just… I want more. I loathe the cliffhanger, cause I normally don’t read unfinished series, but I don’t regret reading this. I just want more Rune and more Isa and MORE SLATRA!!!
The writing style is unique but the humour shines through even in the midst of describing anxiety spirals. Truly. Five stars! I can’t wait for the sequel.
February 20, 2022
I received this copy in exchange for my honest review.
Almost instantly I felt connected to Isa. As someone that struggles with social anxiety, I felt seen with Isa's struggles, constantly feeling awkward and isolated in her mind. She quickly meets Rune and there's almost instantly an unexplainable connection.
Daddy... I mean Rune 😅 has been traveling thru different realms to find the reincarnation of his lost Warrior Goddess soulmate. His pain of the loss and desperation to find and reconnect with her is palpable. It's hard to not feel for him.
Most importantly, the spice 😈. The spice is ON 👏 point 👏. Willow, you did not have to go THAT hard but oh my am I glad you did 🔥😍. One of the scenes is my favorite I've read so far this year and quite possibly in my top ten of all time.
Without spoiling anything this book kept me on the absolute edge of my seat and I could not put it down. I had HSOB waiting for me but I could not NOT finish this first.
If you love fantasy romance, Vikings, Norse, Greek and Christian mythology and lots of spice.. I definitely recommend reading! Will be available on KU 🙌
Almost instantly I felt connected to Isa. As someone that struggles with social anxiety, I felt seen with Isa's struggles, constantly feeling awkward and isolated in her mind. She quickly meets Rune and there's almost instantly an unexplainable connection.
Daddy... I mean Rune 😅 has been traveling thru different realms to find the reincarnation of his lost Warrior Goddess soulmate. His pain of the loss and desperation to find and reconnect with her is palpable. It's hard to not feel for him.
Most importantly, the spice 😈. The spice is ON 👏 point 👏. Willow, you did not have to go THAT hard but oh my am I glad you did 🔥😍. One of the scenes is my favorite I've read so far this year and quite possibly in my top ten of all time.
Without spoiling anything this book kept me on the absolute edge of my seat and I could not put it down. I had HSOB waiting for me but I could not NOT finish this first.
If you love fantasy romance, Vikings, Norse, Greek and Christian mythology and lots of spice.. I definitely recommend reading! Will be available on KU 🙌
February 21, 2022
I loved this book so so much!! Isa is sweet and
awkward and brave for those she cares about. Her
character is so relatable, like seriously how many of
us don't forget how to act around a smoking hot
man!! Despite her nervousness she's still willing to
jump into things even if she shouldn't. Lol.
Rune ugh one word YUM! 🥵He's strong and protective
and dedicated. He has traveled though countless
realms searching for his reincarnated soulmate. Rune
is hurting in a lot of ways but hasn't let that sway his
dedication to protect Isa.
The SPICE in this book is top shelf!! I had to
put the book down and take a cold shower!! Dirty talk ✅
praise✅
I could NOT put this book down and I'm ready for
book 2 already!! @author.willow.mcquerry thank you
soo0 much for this beautiful work of literary art. I can
not wait to see what happens next!!
awkward and brave for those she cares about. Her
character is so relatable, like seriously how many of
us don't forget how to act around a smoking hot
man!! Despite her nervousness she's still willing to
jump into things even if she shouldn't. Lol.
Rune ugh one word YUM! 🥵He's strong and protective
and dedicated. He has traveled though countless
realms searching for his reincarnated soulmate. Rune
is hurting in a lot of ways but hasn't let that sway his
dedication to protect Isa.
The SPICE in this book is top shelf!! I had to
put the book down and take a cold shower!! Dirty talk ✅
praise✅
I could NOT put this book down and I'm ready for
book 2 already!! @author.willow.mcquerry thank you
soo0 much for this beautiful work of literary art. I can
not wait to see what happens next!!
Read
July 21, 2021I loved this book. Isa's Secret is paranormal/fantasy/romance and is full of action and intrigue. Isa, the female lead, is easy to relate to and likeable. Rune, the male lead, is a strong mysterious sexy male who is drawn to Isa. This is the first book by Rachel Taylor and also the first in the series, The Rise of Gods. I love Rachel Taylor's writing style and her characters. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
February 25, 2022
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ok, so how do I put into words how much I love Isa? Because she’s funny and awkward, which makes her very relatable and real!
That was one of the first things that glued me to this book, along with the fact that it’s such a smooth read and easy to understand right from the start. Which is hard to come across in fantasy books. It’s urban fantasy, revolving around Norse mythology, with sprinkles of Greek mythology as well.
We have Isa, our 29 year old FMC, who’s a reincarnation of *insert “which goddess exactly was she in her past life? I need the second book Willow!” here*. I just KNOW she was a badass tho! She was also Rune’s mate. No, correction: IS Rune’s mate. In this life, she’s human, but that will not stop Rune from sensing precisely who she is to him.
And once they meet, my friends… the spice is 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻. Talk more about that below.
Isa feels her soul connected to him right from the start, but she doesn’t know why and, honestly, the way she struggles when she finds out the answer for that made this book so much better! Because I would probably react the same way.
Now Rune… what do I say about Rune that isn’t “gods, yessss!!!”? Rune has traveled through realms in search of his girl, ok? He lost her yearssss ago and still searching for her!!! How can you not fall in love with that?
You thought I forgot to talk about the spice? Nah, babes. How can I forget about something that required me to take a breather?
I’m talking CHAPTER LONG SMUT, ok?
My girl Willow did not have to go so hard, but she did and we shall say “Thank you, Willow!”
Then we have the plot and THAT ending. You think that just because they got lucky and found each other again it would be all fun and spice? HA, NO! There’s still a threat and it’s very much nail biting.
Ok, so how do I put into words how much I love Isa? Because she’s funny and awkward, which makes her very relatable and real!
That was one of the first things that glued me to this book, along with the fact that it’s such a smooth read and easy to understand right from the start. Which is hard to come across in fantasy books. It’s urban fantasy, revolving around Norse mythology, with sprinkles of Greek mythology as well.
We have Isa, our 29 year old FMC, who’s a reincarnation of *insert “which goddess exactly was she in her past life? I need the second book Willow!” here*. I just KNOW she was a badass tho! She was also Rune’s mate. No, correction: IS Rune’s mate. In this life, she’s human, but that will not stop Rune from sensing precisely who she is to him.
And once they meet, my friends… the spice is 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻. Talk more about that below.
Isa feels her soul connected to him right from the start, but she doesn’t know why and, honestly, the way she struggles when she finds out the answer for that made this book so much better! Because I would probably react the same way.
Now Rune… what do I say about Rune that isn’t “gods, yessss!!!”? Rune has traveled through realms in search of his girl, ok? He lost her yearssss ago and still searching for her!!! How can you not fall in love with that?
You thought I forgot to talk about the spice? Nah, babes. How can I forget about something that required me to take a breather?
I’m talking CHAPTER LONG SMUT, ok?
My girl Willow did not have to go so hard, but she did and we shall say “Thank you, Willow!”
Then we have the plot and THAT ending. You think that just because they got lucky and found each other again it would be all fun and spice? HA, NO! There’s still a threat and it’s very much nail biting.
February 22, 2022
OH. MY. GODS!!!! If you've ever been disappointed by a man in real life, you need to read Realm Walker's Rising!! Rune will not only shatter your current expectations of men in real life, he'll make sure you set them higher and your standards will most definitely rise (pun intended). He's absolutely perfect, and the chemistry with Isa? Absolutely off the charts electric! Isa is such a relatable character, and Rachel has done an absolutely AMAZING job with this first in the series. I'm so excited to see what adventures she has in stock for us with the rest of the series!
June 30, 2021
This was a strong debut!
This book has all the best elements of strong, complex characters, a plot that keeps you guessing (then dangles you over a cliff), and hot, steamy smut with a monster 🍆. I need more, like yesterday.
This book has all the best elements of strong, complex characters, a plot that keeps you guessing (then dangles you over a cliff), and hot, steamy smut with a monster 🍆. I need more, like yesterday.
September 12, 2022
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
🌶 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶/10
👎🏻 👎🏽/5 (morally gray character)
I would rate this somewhere between 3 1/2 and 4 stars. There were entire worlds built with lots of description, the plot itself is interesting and it was written in a pretty easy to read manner. I didn’t find myself having to constantly look up definitions or anything like that.
There were things I didn’t like about the book. Isa is very insecure and needs to constantly be reassured. This is something that doesn’t change throughout the book either. I was hoping to see more growth and empowerment from her as she learned about her past, but this wasn’t something that happened. She would also repeat things people said frequently and it honestly annoyed me. So, someone could say something and then she would ask them it but in a different way. Then they would have to repeat themselves again. There were many times I was also like JUST ANSWER THE QUESTION for multiple characters. They were trying way too hard to not answer things and it was frustrating.
Another aspect of the dialogue that I didn’t like was the amount of filler in between conversations. Someone could be trying to talk to another character and there would be 3 pages of them not replying but thinking a lot of thing. So Rune might ask Isa something or say something and she’ll think of things a lot but not reply. He would then say something else and she would think things and not reply. Yes, we are reading what she is thinking…but if you strip away those paragraphs and only have the conversation left it wouldn’t make sense. Although the main character might think things, we also need full conversations between characters too.
The way they spoke was also a bit off putting. But this is a new subject for me to read in general so that is probably why. That is why I don’t want to rate this a 3 or a 3 1/2 because I know it is just new to me. There is a lot of dirty talk and sex scenes for sure in this book so if you want something spicy then this is for you! Personally I am not a fan of the “tight, little P” phrase. But I know others love that stuff. I do love the “good girl” though!
Overall it’s an interesting book and I will be reading the second one as well.
🌶 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶/10
👎🏻 👎🏽/5 (morally gray character)
I would rate this somewhere between 3 1/2 and 4 stars. There were entire worlds built with lots of description, the plot itself is interesting and it was written in a pretty easy to read manner. I didn’t find myself having to constantly look up definitions or anything like that.
There were things I didn’t like about the book. Isa is very insecure and needs to constantly be reassured. This is something that doesn’t change throughout the book either. I was hoping to see more growth and empowerment from her as she learned about her past, but this wasn’t something that happened. She would also repeat things people said frequently and it honestly annoyed me. So, someone could say something and then she would ask them it but in a different way. Then they would have to repeat themselves again. There were many times I was also like JUST ANSWER THE QUESTION for multiple characters. They were trying way too hard to not answer things and it was frustrating.
Another aspect of the dialogue that I didn’t like was the amount of filler in between conversations. Someone could be trying to talk to another character and there would be 3 pages of them not replying but thinking a lot of thing. So Rune might ask Isa something or say something and she’ll think of things a lot but not reply. He would then say something else and she would think things and not reply. Yes, we are reading what she is thinking…but if you strip away those paragraphs and only have the conversation left it wouldn’t make sense. Although the main character might think things, we also need full conversations between characters too.
The way they spoke was also a bit off putting. But this is a new subject for me to read in general so that is probably why. That is why I don’t want to rate this a 3 or a 3 1/2 because I know it is just new to me. There is a lot of dirty talk and sex scenes for sure in this book so if you want something spicy then this is for you! Personally I am not a fan of the “tight, little P” phrase. But I know others love that stuff. I do love the “good girl” though!
Overall it’s an interesting book and I will be reading the second one as well.
April 16, 2022
This could have been so good.
The FMC has issues. She needs therapy, medication, and a life coach. Her crippling anxiety and low self-esteem seriously make me wonder why she has not yet unalived herself. Her internal monologuing about how much she sucks and that there's something wrong with her and how much she hates herself convinced me to hate her as well.
The MMC is pretty one demential and kind of obnoxious. He's driven by finding the reincarnation of his murdered lost love and sex. No matter how uncomfortable a situation may make the FMC he will always push her to be how he wants or to ride his cock. When directly confronted about why he is interested in the FMC he rattles off a bunch of physical attributes followed by character traits that he is not witnessed from this incarnation.
The spice is very spicy. However it's overshadowed by the FMC's internal monologuing and anxiety and the MMC's ego.
The overall story seems like it will be very intriguing if we can ever get to it. There's a bunch of backstory filled in by memory reclamation that all foreshadows an amazing story arc. The world building is so far intriguing. But again the FMC detracts from the story. I will not be reading further into this series. I'm somewhat disappointed by that, if the FMC could have been a little less neurotic I would have absolutely loved this story.
Also the FMC is repeatedly set up to be or threatened by rape. The rape is used as incentive for the bad guys to hunt her down. So if that's a thing you won't be comfortable with you should steer clear.
The FMC has issues. She needs therapy, medication, and a life coach. Her crippling anxiety and low self-esteem seriously make me wonder why she has not yet unalived herself. Her internal monologuing about how much she sucks and that there's something wrong with her and how much she hates herself convinced me to hate her as well.
The MMC is pretty one demential and kind of obnoxious. He's driven by finding the reincarnation of his murdered lost love and sex. No matter how uncomfortable a situation may make the FMC he will always push her to be how he wants or to ride his cock. When directly confronted about why he is interested in the FMC he rattles off a bunch of physical attributes followed by character traits that he is not witnessed from this incarnation.
The spice is very spicy. However it's overshadowed by the FMC's internal monologuing and anxiety and the MMC's ego.
The overall story seems like it will be very intriguing if we can ever get to it. There's a bunch of backstory filled in by memory reclamation that all foreshadows an amazing story arc. The world building is so far intriguing. But again the FMC detracts from the story. I will not be reading further into this series. I'm somewhat disappointed by that, if the FMC could have been a little less neurotic I would have absolutely loved this story.
Also the FMC is repeatedly set up to be or threatened by rape. The rape is used as incentive for the bad guys to hunt her down. So if that's a thing you won't be comfortable with you should steer clear.
May 14, 2022
I know I'm in the minority here and some people love this book, it just was not for me!
I love a good paranormal fantasy with hot male characters and plenty of spice, both of which this book has (though “smashing” lips got old quickly and for goodness sake wash!!), but I need a good strong female character too, and there is no kick-ass female here!
Isa is the female character, who is so crippled by insecurity and emotional immaturity that I just couldn’t like her, let alone connect with her. In fact, I nearly gave up on the book repeatedly because she was so intensely annoying.
Isa is meant to be 29, but honestly, her behaviour is better suited to a young teen and this book contains all the overly dramatic angst you might expect in a young adult book.
Isa has an extremely negative, rambling internal monologue. She reminds us of her problems with low self-esteem many times, but rather than taking it into account before reacting to a situation, she impetuously leaps straight to irritatingly irrational behaviour every time. This is often accompanied by inappropriate self-righteous outrage and excessive drama. Isa does screaming, crying, freezing, running away and freaking out, a lot.
As to the plot, it’s a bit thin; there is a lot of book to read but not much progression. The cliffhanger ending doesn't entice me into reading further because I can't take more Isa. Perhaps if the reincarnated soul of the warrior goddess takes over Isa's body.....
I love a good paranormal fantasy with hot male characters and plenty of spice, both of which this book has (though “smashing” lips got old quickly and for goodness sake wash!!), but I need a good strong female character too, and there is no kick-ass female here!
Isa is the female character, who is so crippled by insecurity and emotional immaturity that I just couldn’t like her, let alone connect with her. In fact, I nearly gave up on the book repeatedly because she was so intensely annoying.
Isa is meant to be 29, but honestly, her behaviour is better suited to a young teen and this book contains all the overly dramatic angst you might expect in a young adult book.
Isa has an extremely negative, rambling internal monologue. She reminds us of her problems with low self-esteem many times, but rather than taking it into account before reacting to a situation, she impetuously leaps straight to irritatingly irrational behaviour every time. This is often accompanied by inappropriate self-righteous outrage and excessive drama. Isa does screaming, crying, freezing, running away and freaking out, a lot.
As to the plot, it’s a bit thin; there is a lot of book to read but not much progression. The cliffhanger ending doesn't entice me into reading further because I can't take more Isa. Perhaps if the reincarnated soul of the warrior goddess takes over Isa's body.....
February 21, 2022
𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒎 𝑾𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈
By Willow McQueery
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
First off I loved Isa so much. Her name is very unique but I enjoyed how real she was. Her anxiety, self esteem struggles etc were refreshing because it made her more human than other FMC’s. 𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒄 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 so let’s get into some details.
We have our MMC Rune (🥵) who is traveling through the realms to find his reincarnated lost soulmate. When they finally meet the spice is off the charts, like I’m talking chapters of spice. Like damn Willow you did good with these two😏
Isa feels a connection/attraction to Rune almost instantly and isn’t sure why her soul pulls to him. She goes through a good amount of social anxiety and self doubt with him but is incredibly brave and strong as an individual. But Rune is also there to reassure, protect, and help her along the way.
I seriously recommend this book you guys, it releases tmm (2/22/22) and will be on KU. I can’t wait for book 2!!!
By Willow McQueery
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
First off I loved Isa so much. Her name is very unique but I enjoyed how real she was. Her anxiety, self esteem struggles etc were refreshing because it made her more human than other FMC’s. 𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒄 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 so let’s get into some details.
We have our MMC Rune (🥵) who is traveling through the realms to find his reincarnated lost soulmate. When they finally meet the spice is off the charts, like I’m talking chapters of spice. Like damn Willow you did good with these two😏
Isa feels a connection/attraction to Rune almost instantly and isn’t sure why her soul pulls to him. She goes through a good amount of social anxiety and self doubt with him but is incredibly brave and strong as an individual. But Rune is also there to reassure, protect, and help her along the way.
I seriously recommend this book you guys, it releases tmm (2/22/22) and will be on KU. I can’t wait for book 2!!!
November 7, 2022
DNF: 82% and Just Couldn’t
I tried. I really, really tried. I had hoped that Isa would grow as a character. She’s tedious. Her stream of consciousness and constant self doubt despite being told over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over again how much Rune loves her is just over the top. Poor little Isa. Broken little Isa. There’s no reason for her to be broken. No trauma. Yeah sure people laughed at her as a kid. There’s no REASON for this fragile piece of girl. I find myself hoping she’s nearly mortally wounded. Her character is unlikeable. The pitiful female that needs the big strong man to protect her all while acting like a 2 year old “cuz she can do it herself.” I just could not go the last 100 pages and the though that there is a second book? No.
I tried. I really, really tried. I had hoped that Isa would grow as a character. She’s tedious. Her stream of consciousness and constant self doubt despite being told over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over again how much Rune loves her is just over the top. Poor little Isa. Broken little Isa. There’s no reason for her to be broken. No trauma. Yeah sure people laughed at her as a kid. There’s no REASON for this fragile piece of girl. I find myself hoping she’s nearly mortally wounded. Her character is unlikeable. The pitiful female that needs the big strong man to protect her all while acting like a 2 year old “cuz she can do it herself.” I just could not go the last 100 pages and the though that there is a second book? No.
August 3, 2024
Freaking LOVED 😭😭
First off, that cliffhanger was just BRUTAL! 😭😭😭 My heart hurts knowing what they were going through, and I'm so glad the second book is out because I can't handle not knowing what happens next! RWR was definitely a new to me concept that I absolutely enjoyed reading and seeing Isas and Runes relationship progress and get hint by hint shown to us without giving too much away at once was entertaining to read about. Now the smexual scenes, THE SMEXUAL SCENES, GOOD LORD 🥵🥵 Willow certainly knows how to write them. This was everything I wanted in a paranormal romance, and now I'm off to the second book 🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️
First off, that cliffhanger was just BRUTAL! 😭😭😭 My heart hurts knowing what they were going through, and I'm so glad the second book is out because I can't handle not knowing what happens next! RWR was definitely a new to me concept that I absolutely enjoyed reading and seeing Isas and Runes relationship progress and get hint by hint shown to us without giving too much away at once was entertaining to read about. Now the smexual scenes, THE SMEXUAL SCENES, GOOD LORD 🥵🥵 Willow certainly knows how to write them. This was everything I wanted in a paranormal romance, and now I'm off to the second book 🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️🏃♀️➡️
September 24, 2022
I really had high hope for this book for the first 50% I really was into it, but after that it went downhill. I was really hoping that after the FMC found some information and learn about her past she would become more confident in herself, grow a backbone and become this bad ass person but that didn’t happen at all and it was a let down 😭😭I also felt the MMC he kept so much for her “trying not to break her mind” like “Whaat” 🫠🫠
This book had so much potential I just wish the FMC was more stronger
This book had so much potential I just wish the FMC was more stronger
March 5, 2022
I was given this ARC in exchange for a honest review.
SPICY, SPICY Fantasy right here. This book takes off from the beginning and you better hold on for the ride. This debut novel checks all the books and have you come back for more. You can see yourself through Isa's POV and her actions, but girl oh my goodness, did you go through some things. I can't wait from more from Willow.
Also check the CWs and playlist included for the book.
SPICY, SPICY Fantasy right here. This book takes off from the beginning and you better hold on for the ride. This debut novel checks all the books and have you come back for more. You can see yourself through Isa's POV and her actions, but girl oh my goodness, did you go through some things. I can't wait from more from Willow.
Also check the CWs and playlist included for the book.
April 23, 2022
Be careful with this one
Great story, interesting world, steamy romance, no HEA at the end- this is definitely going into the 2nd one so if you're not OK being in agony wondering what happened at the end before the 2nd book comes out wait and read them back to back, definitely great read and can't wait for the 2nd!
Great story, interesting world, steamy romance, no HEA at the end- this is definitely going into the 2nd one so if you're not OK being in agony wondering what happened at the end before the 2nd book comes out wait and read them back to back, definitely great read and can't wait for the 2nd!
September 5, 2022
I LOVED this fast paced, spicy book. I mean, who wouldn't want a hot, sexy viking warrior to be the love of their life?
Isa was a wonderful MC, unsure and insecure, but slowly coming into herself.
The passion between Rune and her was SO hot, and the story kept me turning pages!!
I cannot WAIT for book two!
Isa was a wonderful MC, unsure and insecure, but slowly coming into herself.
The passion between Rune and her was SO hot, and the story kept me turning pages!!
I cannot WAIT for book two!
August 7, 2021
This was a strong debut!
This book has all the best elements of strong, complex characters, a plot that keeps you guessing (then dangles you over a cliff), and hot, steamy smut with a monster *Mhmm*. I need more, like yesterday.
This book has all the best elements of strong, complex characters, a plot that keeps you guessing (then dangles you over a cliff), and hot, steamy smut with a monster *Mhmm*. I need more, like yesterday.
February 28, 2022
Oh my God
This is normally not a genre I read but damn I'm glad I did! Rune and Isa made it so I couldn't sleep until finishing the book. What an absolute amazing five star read from a debut author! I cannot wait to read book two!
This is normally not a genre I read but damn I'm glad I did! Rune and Isa made it so I couldn't sleep until finishing the book. What an absolute amazing five star read from a debut author! I cannot wait to read book two!
March 11, 2022
Urban Fantasy meets Norse Mythology. Rune was amazing and all of Willow's characters are nicely fleshed out with witty dialogue and incredible sexy-scenes! Highly recommend, but be warned the cliffy!!
April 14, 2022
I enjoyed the book, Rune is loveable and has major golden retriever energy, my only criticism is the repetitive nature of Isa’s insecurity. The spice is 🌶🌶🌶🌶/5. Not a stand-alone though and now impatient for book 2.
July 2, 2022
I want to like this book more then I do. The smut was great and it didn’t take FOREVER to get into it. BUT the female lead was whinny and weak. Which is always a turn off. I think I would have liked this more if she was a bit more self sufficient and a little less desperate.
August 29, 2022
Willow is great! I really enjoyed reading this story. I am not that familiar with Norse Mythology and I am eager to learn more. The concept of the different realms and reincarnation is fascinating. I'm excited to read the next one!
September 3, 2022
I never thought I would be one for paranormal romance but this book has made me change my mind. On a whim I read it on my kindle and from the first moment I started reading I couldn’t put it down. The only downside was that book 2 in the series isn’t out yet!
September 22, 2022
Loved this but so stressful
The story is very good and very powerful but being inside Isa's head is stressful and exhausting.
I can't wait to read more but I will definitely need a palette cleanser first.
The story is very good and very powerful but being inside Isa's head is stressful and exhausting.
I can't wait to read more but I will definitely need a palette cleanser first.
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