What do you think?
Rate this book
The Road to Valhalla #1
Shield-Maiden: Under the Howling Moon
Chosen by Odin.Destined for Valhalla.In my dreams, Odin whispers to me.
He tells me I’m destined to wield a legendary sword.
He tells me my road will bring me to Valhalla.
But when I wake, I’m only Hervor. Fatherless. Unloved. Unwanted. Jarl Bjartmar, my grandfather, calls me cursed. My mother, her memories stolen by the gods, has forgotten me. Everyone tells me I should have been left to the wolves, but no one will tell me why.
None but Eydis, a thrall with völva magic, believes I’m meant for a greater destiny. Yet who can believe a devotee of Loki?
When the king and his son arrive for the holy blót, the runes begin to fall in my favor. A way forward may lie in the handsome Viking set on winning my heart, but only if I unravel the mystery hanging over me first.
Readers will relish Shield Under the Howling Moon. This sweeping Viking historical fantasy retells the Norse Hervarar Saga, depicting the life of the shieldmaiden Hervor.
He tells me I’m destined to wield a legendary sword.
He tells me my road will bring me to Valhalla.
But when I wake, I’m only Hervor. Fatherless. Unloved. Unwanted. Jarl Bjartmar, my grandfather, calls me cursed. My mother, her memories stolen by the gods, has forgotten me. Everyone tells me I should have been left to the wolves, but no one will tell me why.
None but Eydis, a thrall with völva magic, believes I’m meant for a greater destiny. Yet who can believe a devotee of Loki?
When the king and his son arrive for the holy blót, the runes begin to fall in my favor. A way forward may lie in the handsome Viking set on winning my heart, but only if I unravel the mystery hanging over me first.
Readers will relish Shield Under the Howling Moon. This sweeping Viking historical fantasy retells the Norse Hervarar Saga, depicting the life of the shieldmaiden Hervor.
237 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2020
2004 people are currently reading
4357 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Karsak
90 books1,714 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.
Join my newsletter and get Under the Strawberry Moon for FREE: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Connect with me online:
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Webpage: http://www.melaniekarsak.com
Facebook: @AuthorMelanieKarsak
Pinterest: @melaniekarsak
Instagram: @karsakmelanie
Join my newsletter and get Under the Strawberry Moon for FREE: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Connect with me online:
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Webpage: http://www.melaniekarsak.com
Facebook: @AuthorMelanieKarsak
Pinterest: @melaniekarsak
Instagram: @karsakmelanie
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
February 21, 2024
For all the shield-maidens out there. From the frontline to the line at the grocery store, I see you. This one’s for you.
I've definitely gone down a Melanie Karsak rabbit hole of novellas! This series by far has piqued my interest the most. I haven't read anything Vikings based in ages and I'm such a sucker for them!
Things I loved:
✨ Shield-maiden POV 🖤
✨ Everything typically Vikings related: the era, the Gods, giant men with hammers.
Things I loathed:
✨ Nothing as of yet; though I have this sinking feeling it's going to get a lot less girl-boss.
This little 230-page novella had me invested so quickly. It's a lovely little introduction into the harsh world and mostly shitty family environment that our FMC Hervor is trying to free herself from. The characters already have a sense of depth, the picture that is painted in Dalr has me guessing a bunch of potential plot twists already & I just know my girl has her gods on her side and the world at her feet.
Fingers-crossed she does her own thing and this doesn't take a boring, different path. This book has got me excited for some world changing shield maiden POV chaos!
I've definitely gone down a Melanie Karsak rabbit hole of novellas! This series by far has piqued my interest the most. I haven't read anything Vikings based in ages and I'm such a sucker for them!
Things I loved:
✨ Shield-maiden POV 🖤
✨ Everything typically Vikings related: the era, the Gods, giant men with hammers.
Things I loathed:
✨ Nothing as of yet; though I have this sinking feeling it's going to get a lot less girl-boss.
This little 230-page novella had me invested so quickly. It's a lovely little introduction into the harsh world and mostly shitty family environment that our FMC Hervor is trying to free herself from. The characters already have a sense of depth, the picture that is painted in Dalr has me guessing a bunch of potential plot twists already & I just know my girl has her gods on her side and the world at her feet.
Fingers-crossed she does her own thing and this doesn't take a boring, different path. This book has got me excited for some world changing shield maiden POV chaos!
August 5, 2020
Pure Awesomeness!
WOW! Why did I wait so long to buy this kindle book. I’m in absolutely love with the story surrounding the Viking Clans, the main character Hervor with her named axes, and the mystical magic surrounding the gods Noki, Oden, and the magical cursed sword Tyrfing originally owned by Hervor’s father Angantyr.
There is so much to this story that it’s hard to put everything down, but know this, the author’s writing hooks you immediately with these amazing characters that makes you either feel hate for them or fall in love with them. For instance, I immediately hated Hervor’s grandfather Jarl Bjartmar (Jarl of Dalr), such an cruel and hateful soul that I’m looking forward to reading about his ending. I fell in love with Hervor and how she wants to be a shield-maiden, I found myself admiring her strength not just physically but mentally.
The magic grabs you with Hervor’s for sight and mental connection to the Norse God Oden and his trickster son Noki. It’s quite humorous at times, I even caught myself laughing out loud at their actions.
Between the heroism of all the great Vikings, this story gives you the insight of competition during rituals, the jealousy between family members , the loyalty from the warriors , and the love of lovers in the Viking World. It was so good I could hardly put the book down. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment.
I loved this story so much that now I want to own the hard copy and have it signed by the author. I’m just amazed. I highly recommend this Viking story.
Excellent Read!
WOW! Why did I wait so long to buy this kindle book. I’m in absolutely love with the story surrounding the Viking Clans, the main character Hervor with her named axes, and the mystical magic surrounding the gods Noki, Oden, and the magical cursed sword Tyrfing originally owned by Hervor’s father Angantyr.
There is so much to this story that it’s hard to put everything down, but know this, the author’s writing hooks you immediately with these amazing characters that makes you either feel hate for them or fall in love with them. For instance, I immediately hated Hervor’s grandfather Jarl Bjartmar (Jarl of Dalr), such an cruel and hateful soul that I’m looking forward to reading about his ending. I fell in love with Hervor and how she wants to be a shield-maiden, I found myself admiring her strength not just physically but mentally.
The magic grabs you with Hervor’s for sight and mental connection to the Norse God Oden and his trickster son Noki. It’s quite humorous at times, I even caught myself laughing out loud at their actions.
Between the heroism of all the great Vikings, this story gives you the insight of competition during rituals, the jealousy between family members , the loyalty from the warriors , and the love of lovers in the Viking World. It was so good I could hardly put the book down. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment.
I loved this story so much that now I want to own the hard copy and have it signed by the author. I’m just amazed. I highly recommend this Viking story.
Excellent Read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2023
En realidad es un 4.25
I loved it.
If you are looking for a story with a strong FMC and Vikings, this one is for you.
I loved it.
If you are looking for a story with a strong FMC and Vikings, this one is for you.
July 5, 2023
Vikings meets Game of Thrones - loved it, can’t wait to read the next one!
Though Hervor is the grandchild of the jarl (local lord) and saves heir entire family (includin him) during a surprise attack, she is shunned in her own home because her mother has lost her wits and nobody knows who her father is. The jarl knows, but he isn’t telling. Treated as if she’s cursed, Hervor perseveres a d trains to be a shiled-maiden. When the King arrives for a festival with his only son, things get interesting.
The secret of Hervor’s parentage kept me turning the pages. The style makes me want to read the next book. Hervor’s unbending spirit made me marvel at hers and other great characters. I loved how Eydis’ offhand comments were, in fact, prophecies. The whole subject of Völvas (seers) in Nordic/Viking culture is fascinating. As is the existence of shield-maidens (in life; who become Valkyries in death).
An enjoyable read that I’d thoroughly recommend for lovers of Nordic myths & legends and NA medieval Viking fantasy. There’s a good reason this book is Nr #1 in mythology & medieval historical romance and #2 in historical fantasy. (And it’s nil dubloons on Zon at the mo.)
Though Hervor is the grandchild of the jarl (local lord) and saves heir entire family (includin him) during a surprise attack, she is shunned in her own home because her mother has lost her wits and nobody knows who her father is. The jarl knows, but he isn’t telling. Treated as if she’s cursed, Hervor perseveres a d trains to be a shiled-maiden. When the King arrives for a festival with his only son, things get interesting.
The secret of Hervor’s parentage kept me turning the pages. The style makes me want to read the next book. Hervor’s unbending spirit made me marvel at hers and other great characters. I loved how Eydis’ offhand comments were, in fact, prophecies. The whole subject of Völvas (seers) in Nordic/Viking culture is fascinating. As is the existence of shield-maidens (in life; who become Valkyries in death).
An enjoyable read that I’d thoroughly recommend for lovers of Nordic myths & legends and NA medieval Viking fantasy. There’s a good reason this book is Nr #1 in mythology & medieval historical romance and #2 in historical fantasy. (And it’s nil dubloons on Zon at the mo.)
May 1, 2022
Content Warning: Slavery, blood/gore, violence, murder, abuse, assault, and mention: of torture, suicide attempt/ideation, and rape.
I stumbled on the summary of this book in my attempt to find an indie/self-published book to read for the #ReadYourOwnAdventure Tiktok challenge [Go team Mage!]. Being a huge fan of The Last Kingdom I knew I wanted to read this book and see Hervor’s journey.
Hervor has grown up being told she’s cursed because of her father and yet no one seems to know or will tell her, just who her father is. All she knows is her amber eyes, which come from her father, enrage her grandfather. Although the only child of the Jarl’s favorite child, Hervor is constantly berated and abused by her grandfather. Although a skilled fighter, and dreams of being a Shield Maiden, her grandfather has forbidden her to ever be a warrior.
In this book, we get a good sense of who Hervor is and who she wants to be. A great introduction though I have a feeling book two will be even better and more action-packed.
If you’re a fan of strong women, Gods who play with fate, and journeys of self-discovery…I highly recommend giving this book a try!
I stumbled on the summary of this book in my attempt to find an indie/self-published book to read for the #ReadYourOwnAdventure Tiktok challenge [Go team Mage!]. Being a huge fan of The Last Kingdom I knew I wanted to read this book and see Hervor’s journey.
Hervor has grown up being told she’s cursed because of her father and yet no one seems to know or will tell her, just who her father is. All she knows is her amber eyes, which come from her father, enrage her grandfather. Although the only child of the Jarl’s favorite child, Hervor is constantly berated and abused by her grandfather. Although a skilled fighter, and dreams of being a Shield Maiden, her grandfather has forbidden her to ever be a warrior.
In this book, we get a good sense of who Hervor is and who she wants to be. A great introduction though I have a feeling book two will be even better and more action-packed.
If you’re a fan of strong women, Gods who play with fate, and journeys of self-discovery…I highly recommend giving this book a try!
October 29, 2022
This was on my list for a while after a recommendation on some boards, so in doing a trial run for KU, it was an obvious pick.
While I liked it well enough, I don't think it was anything extraordinary. The writing was straightforward if a bit plain. This usually doesn't bother me, and this was a fast read. However, at the same time, the actual pace seemed a bit slower for how fast of a read it was due to the redundancies of the storytelling. I wanted to see more character development, which is possible that this is to come later in the series, but... This kind of storytelling structure just might not be for me where I have to sit in for a string of novels that, while interesting enough and I would LIKE to know what happens, aren't quite interesting enough to sink my time into even if they are quick.
Definitely an audience here though, and maybe I'll try again. I really wanted a good Viking or Viking-like novel, this did manage that.
While I liked it well enough, I don't think it was anything extraordinary. The writing was straightforward if a bit plain. This usually doesn't bother me, and this was a fast read. However, at the same time, the actual pace seemed a bit slower for how fast of a read it was due to the redundancies of the storytelling. I wanted to see more character development, which is possible that this is to come later in the series, but... This kind of storytelling structure just might not be for me where I have to sit in for a string of novels that, while interesting enough and I would LIKE to know what happens, aren't quite interesting enough to sink my time into even if they are quick.
Definitely an audience here though, and maybe I'll try again. I really wanted a good Viking or Viking-like novel, this did manage that.
February 21, 2023
This reads more like Young Adult to me. I’m afraid I don’t have much to say except if Vikings are your thing, check out The Witch’s Heart. I thought that was pretty fantastic compared to this.
I will not continue with this series. I have books 2 and 3 but since I work in a second hand book shop, I think I’ll be donating them in as sadly the series just isn’t written in a sophisticated manner and for me, the writing is far too plain and simple. I feel that Book 1 just drags along, somewhat repetitive.
I will not continue with this series. I have books 2 and 3 but since I work in a second hand book shop, I think I’ll be donating them in as sadly the series just isn’t written in a sophisticated manner and for me, the writing is far too plain and simple. I feel that Book 1 just drags along, somewhat repetitive.
Read
December 5, 2024This was a really enjoyable start to the series! The world building is excellent and Melanie Karsak did an amazing job of bringing in so many details from Norse life and culture. I loved just how many female characters were in the book and their support of one another, Hervor included. The mystery surrounding Hervor’s parentage was fun to unravel and I’m excited to see where the story goes next.
CW: Violence
CW: Violence
April 27, 2021
I have so many mixed feelings about this book... on the one hand, I’m all-in for a good Norse mythology fantasy — bring. it. on. On the other hand, the plot really seems to drag in several places and I’m having a hard time fully committing to the series. I’m head over heels for Eydis, though, and am grateful for her dynamic with Hervor.
May 28, 2024
5 Stars
Normally I'm not a big fan of Viking stories but this book transported me away into Hervor's life and as soon as I got everyone's name memorized, this story was amazing! I always know when I find a gem because the anticipation for the next book gets me so excited!
Normally I'm not a big fan of Viking stories but this book transported me away into Hervor's life and as soon as I got everyone's name memorized, this story was amazing! I always know when I find a gem because the anticipation for the next book gets me so excited!
October 23, 2023
Entertaining Viking listening 🎶🔰
This is a free kindle e-book from Amazon of a series available on kindle unlimited or purchase.
The village is being attacked in the middle of the night 🌙. The granddaughter of the chief raises the alarm and the attackers are defeated. The chief is mad 😠 with the granddaughter as he is all the time. This is a novel about Valhalla, Odin, Thor, and friends and family adventure with lots of action, misdirection, and violence as the granddaughter learns about her family.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of fantasy Viking, Valhalla novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒 😤👑😮🏡
This is a free kindle e-book from Amazon of a series available on kindle unlimited or purchase.
The village is being attacked in the middle of the night 🌙. The granddaughter of the chief raises the alarm and the attackers are defeated. The chief is mad 😠 with the granddaughter as he is all the time. This is a novel about Valhalla, Odin, Thor, and friends and family adventure with lots of action, misdirection, and violence as the granddaughter learns about her family.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of fantasy Viking, Valhalla novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒 😤👑😮🏡
May 27, 2024
5 star read
Excellent tale of a young girl trying to find her place in a family bestowed with secrets, lies and curses. Through her devotion to the old gods, she is able to unmask the root of her grandfathers hatred and claim what is rightfully hers — her name and her heritage. As a true Shieldmaiden of Odin. Great portrayal of the gods, historical references and portrayal of daily life during the times of the Viking. Solid 5 stars and looking forward to see where this leads. Highly recommend, particularly to fans of The Last Kingdom series and The Circle of Cerridwen series.
Excellent tale of a young girl trying to find her place in a family bestowed with secrets, lies and curses. Through her devotion to the old gods, she is able to unmask the root of her grandfathers hatred and claim what is rightfully hers — her name and her heritage. As a true Shieldmaiden of Odin. Great portrayal of the gods, historical references and portrayal of daily life during the times of the Viking. Solid 5 stars and looking forward to see where this leads. Highly recommend, particularly to fans of The Last Kingdom series and The Circle of Cerridwen series.
August 14, 2022
I am a big a fan of the movie series Vikings!!! It's my favorite. Based on some research I found this book series by Melanie Karsack that caught my eye.
I love stories involving powerful, relentless, headstrong women. I have never read a book quite like it before, this one took me 2-3 days tops. Clearly it had my attention. Starting the 2nd book now. Can't wait for what's in store.
If you like the movie Vikings, I think you will enjoy this book.
I love stories involving powerful, relentless, headstrong women. I have never read a book quite like it before, this one took me 2-3 days tops. Clearly it had my attention. Starting the 2nd book now. Can't wait for what's in store.
If you like the movie Vikings, I think you will enjoy this book.
November 10, 2021
I love this author. I feel like her books are just great, simple but nicely detailed reads with romance that doesn’t make me cringe. Are they super unique in their storylines? Maybe not, but they’re well-written and have really beautiful details added in, and they’re exactly what I need right now between darker reads.
June 22, 2022
wow
I found this book on a free book page and picked it up because I liked the cover. What a great decision! This book is fantastic. The character development is some of the best I’ve read. The plot moves along nicely and is original and fresh. I really can’t express how much I enjoyed Ms Karsak’s writing.
I found this book on a free book page and picked it up because I liked the cover. What a great decision! This book is fantastic. The character development is some of the best I’ve read. The plot moves along nicely and is original and fresh. I really can’t express how much I enjoyed Ms Karsak’s writing.
February 19, 2022
A fun read.
This was a fun book to read, especially after some of the other books I have been reading. I would certainly consider reading the other books in the series.
This was a fun book to read, especially after some of the other books I have been reading. I would certainly consider reading the other books in the series.
July 29, 2023
Pros: Viking based story, Norse gods, icy setting, action
Cons: a bit repetitive and the plot doesn’t really move until the very end
Cons: a bit repetitive and the plot doesn’t really move until the very end
June 7, 2025
This was OK. Hervor is Odin's chosen one but of course Loki is getting involved so we don't know what kind of tricks he's playing yet. There seems to be some themes of following your truth, just not all put together as well as The Blackthorn Queen series.
“The howling moon. They call it a wolf moon, but to me, ever since the day you were born, I’ve called it the howling moon. That’s when you were born, Hervor, under the howling moon. The wolves cried and cried all night long. Even the moon howled the night you were born. I remember.”
― Melanie Karsak, Shield-Maiden: Under the Howling Moon
“The howling moon. They call it a wolf moon, but to me, ever since the day you were born, I’ve called it the howling moon. That’s when you were born, Hervor, under the howling moon. The wolves cried and cried all night long. Even the moon howled the night you were born. I remember.”
― Melanie Karsak, Shield-Maiden: Under the Howling Moon
April 4, 2025
A nice easy read, didn't want too put it down at times, leads nicely onto the next book. Can't wait to read the next one 🪓
March 15, 2021
What a great read. Finished most of this book in a day. Once I figured out all the characters, with a little help, I was totally engaged and along for the ride. This being a series I'll be starting the next book right away. Skol!
April 25, 2022
Let's start with why I read this.
I'm in a Vikings-era mood, okay? I want to consume fun, fast Vikings adjacent content. And this got recommended while I was searching for things that fit the bill. I went in with the lowest expectations possible and was pleasantly surprised at how solid this story was.
I'd slot this in alongside urban fantasy in terms of what I was looking for and what I received. Nothing surprising, just comforting content that I fully expected and wanted. It was written clearly and I enjoyed all of the characters. I wasn't reading for historical accuracy (I leave that for nonfiction), but I could tell the author had done a fair amount of research.
It was short and I gobbled it up fully intending to continue on with the series. It gave me exactly what I asked for and I have no real complaints. It's female focused, and this first book really focused on female friendships/relationships. The most lacking plot was certainly the romance, but I'll reserve judgment until later books and more development.
I'm in a Vikings-era mood, okay? I want to consume fun, fast Vikings adjacent content. And this got recommended while I was searching for things that fit the bill. I went in with the lowest expectations possible and was pleasantly surprised at how solid this story was.
I'd slot this in alongside urban fantasy in terms of what I was looking for and what I received. Nothing surprising, just comforting content that I fully expected and wanted. It was written clearly and I enjoyed all of the characters. I wasn't reading for historical accuracy (I leave that for nonfiction), but I could tell the author had done a fair amount of research.
It was short and I gobbled it up fully intending to continue on with the series. It gave me exactly what I asked for and I have no real complaints. It's female focused, and this first book really focused on female friendships/relationships. The most lacking plot was certainly the romance, but I'll reserve judgment until later books and more development.
June 4, 2023
A wonderful new Viking Shield Maiden saga
If you loved the show “The Vikings” you will love this series and not be able to put it down. All my favorite things about that show and more but. in a new and fresh Saga all its own. Fierce characters take on the world and injustice to make the North a better place and fulfill their destinies. Harsh beginnings and pain mold several of the female characters into the strong characters they become and lead to them shaping and changing their world into a better place. My favorite part is how the voices of the gods are woven into the stories and brought to life. Especially how the writer uses Loki’s wit and wisdom as he “talks” to the 2 characters he favors. Norse mythology is artfully woven into this series in such a way to make one better understand the way of the Vikings and their beliefs. Follow these women and the men who love them as they shape their destinies.
If you loved the show “The Vikings” you will love this series and not be able to put it down. All my favorite things about that show and more but. in a new and fresh Saga all its own. Fierce characters take on the world and injustice to make the North a better place and fulfill their destinies. Harsh beginnings and pain mold several of the female characters into the strong characters they become and lead to them shaping and changing their world into a better place. My favorite part is how the voices of the gods are woven into the stories and brought to life. Especially how the writer uses Loki’s wit and wisdom as he “talks” to the 2 characters he favors. Norse mythology is artfully woven into this series in such a way to make one better understand the way of the Vikings and their beliefs. Follow these women and the men who love them as they shape their destinies.
August 8, 2022
The most interesting thing I would highlight about this book is that it seems to be specifically written to copy the style of a premodern epic in regards to how it treats its characters. Hervor, our first person protagonist is modern, fiesty, and emotionally complex in the way that we have come to expect of modern novels. But insterestingly, she, like heroes of the ancient sagas is far more reactive than proactive to the events of the plot. It apes the feeling that humans are playthings of the gods within the book's universe (and our own past).
The style is interesting, at times a little off putting. As I'm asusming this is an intentional sytle, it is certainly a impressive meta accomplishment. The author has my respect. I just struggle to tell if the style is something I enjoyed or not.
The style is interesting, at times a little off putting. As I'm asusming this is an intentional sytle, it is certainly a impressive meta accomplishment. The author has my respect. I just struggle to tell if the style is something I enjoyed or not.
November 24, 2021
Delightful story filled with genuine Norse tidbits….
After reading AE Rayne’s Fyrick Saga, I was trying to fill a void that the end of that wonderful series left in me. This series is also epic and mysterious and Karsak’s writing is exemplary… She has a way of describing the world that sets the scene so perfectly. The one that stayed with me was her description of branches in the moonlight as “bony fingers”… chilling and really sets the scene! I also adored the lore about the gods Odin and Loki… I don’t want to give too much away here but suffice to say, if you love this genre? You will be happy you picked this up! Karsak wraps things up and doesn’t leave you hanging as well. I have definitely found a new author here and am so happy about it!
After reading AE Rayne’s Fyrick Saga, I was trying to fill a void that the end of that wonderful series left in me. This series is also epic and mysterious and Karsak’s writing is exemplary… She has a way of describing the world that sets the scene so perfectly. The one that stayed with me was her description of branches in the moonlight as “bony fingers”… chilling and really sets the scene! I also adored the lore about the gods Odin and Loki… I don’t want to give too much away here but suffice to say, if you love this genre? You will be happy you picked this up! Karsak wraps things up and doesn’t leave you hanging as well. I have definitely found a new author here and am so happy about it!
April 9, 2024
I absolutely loved this book and this is quickly becoming one of my favorite series and authors. I HIGHLY recommend going to the authors website and signing up for her newsletter to receive her novella for the series for free. It really enriches the reading of book 1 since YOU know the history behind things and Hervor is in the dark and not understanding certain things. The author did a great job of developing the characters throughout the book and I can’t wait to see where the adventure takes us in book 2. I also can’t wait as more secrets are unlocked. Definitely appreciate a strong female who has dreams and ambitions.
June 10, 2023
This book was well done. The characters are well thought out and I love the main character and her thrall. The story itself is interesting and easy to follow. It also stays true to a good Viking tale. The only thing stopping this book from being 5 stars was the story lacking at parts. The same information gets repeated over and over again about the main characters situation and I disliked how low of an opinion she has of herself. I would have liked her to be a bit stronger emotionally. But all in all it was a good read and I’m going to probably buy the second book to see what happens. I was given a free copy of this book from the author and am leaving this review willingly.
February 19, 2022
Shield Maiden Melanie Karsak
Hervor. the primary character is a female warrior, actually a berserker. Fearless in battle. She also has a strong moral compass. She has been treated unfairly by her grandfather. I failed to mention this brilliant sage is set in the time of the early vikings, norsemen. People of a warrior class. This excellent story is full of bravery, honor as well as deceit and betrayal. An excellent read!! I've already ordered book two in this series! The author is a gifted storyteller!! Enjoyed immensely!!
Hervor. the primary character is a female warrior, actually a berserker. Fearless in battle. She also has a strong moral compass. She has been treated unfairly by her grandfather. I failed to mention this brilliant sage is set in the time of the early vikings, norsemen. People of a warrior class. This excellent story is full of bravery, honor as well as deceit and betrayal. An excellent read!! I've already ordered book two in this series! The author is a gifted storyteller!! Enjoyed immensely!!
July 17, 2022
I love stories about strong women that, though fiction, allude to a history I would love to know more about and also don't rely on the premise that said strong woman needs a man to save her. Or that she needs a man at all. Hervor may have resigned herself to living as a maid in her grandfather's home, spending her nights with her needlepoint by the fire, but that doesn't mean she won't seize every opportunity for a life and adventure beyond his borders. A fun read that will leave every woman wanting to train to be an axe wielding shield maiden.
August 25, 2022
Rating: 3.5 Stars
POV(s): Single—First Person
Relationship: M/F
Genre(s): Fantasy Romance, Mythology
Title: Shield-Maiden: Under the Howling Moon (The Road to Valhalla #1) by Melanie Karsak
Interconnected Series: Yes
Standalone: No
Cliffhanger: No
Series HEA:
Triggers: Yes
Tags/Tropes:
➢ Chosen-One
➢ Fighter-FMC
➢ Meddling-Gods
➢ Norse-Mythology
➢ Slow-Burn
➢ Vikings
POV(s): Single—First Person
Relationship: M/F
Genre(s): Fantasy Romance, Mythology
Title: Shield-Maiden: Under the Howling Moon (The Road to Valhalla #1) by Melanie Karsak
Interconnected Series: Yes
Standalone: No
Cliffhanger: No
Series HEA:
Triggers: Yes
Tags/Tropes:
➢ Chosen-One
➢ Fighter-FMC
➢ Meddling-Gods
➢ Norse-Mythology
➢ Slow-Burn
➢ Vikings
March 15, 2023
Exciting adventure story!
An exciting adventure story of Vikings, their customs and traditions, their religion and the story of a teen Viking girl’s life. She is the daughter of a great warrior and a woman without any memory, and the granddaughter of a man who hates her. Her life is complicated by the fact that she wants to be a warrior, but her grandfather wants her to sit in a corner and weave and do embroidery.
An exciting adventure story of Vikings, their customs and traditions, their religion and the story of a teen Viking girl’s life. She is the daughter of a great warrior and a woman without any memory, and the granddaughter of a man who hates her. Her life is complicated by the fact that she wants to be a warrior, but her grandfather wants her to sit in a corner and weave and do embroidery.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews