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Fate of the Nine #1
By the Sharp and Shadowed Wings
Fate is cruel. But the Gods are vicious.
Revna was once chosen as a sacrifice to the Gods, but another took her place on that cursed boat—and she can never forget. Commander of the Myddheim Maidens, she fights relentlessly to shield all she can from the darkness that’s plagued her realm ever since. But now the boat has returned. To protect those she holds dear, she accepts her fate and is thrust into the realms of Gods and monsters. There, she must confront the one person who has haunted her days and nights for nine years: the God of Destruction himself.
Fenrir, forever branded a monster, has spent most of his long life at the mercy of his very nature and the cruel whims of the Aesir—all to protect his siblings. But when a fierce shield maiden from the mortal realm washes up on his shores, a hunger long-buried awakens, threatening to shatter the delicate hold he keeps on the monster that howls beneath his skin.
As the twisted threads of fate unravel, Revna and Fenrir’s desires grow into something undeniable. Together, they must face their pasts and the sinister forces that endanger not just all they care for, but the very fabric of fate itself.
Desires bind. Fates unfold.
And realms will tremble.
Revna was once chosen as a sacrifice to the Gods, but another took her place on that cursed boat—and she can never forget. Commander of the Myddheim Maidens, she fights relentlessly to shield all she can from the darkness that’s plagued her realm ever since. But now the boat has returned. To protect those she holds dear, she accepts her fate and is thrust into the realms of Gods and monsters. There, she must confront the one person who has haunted her days and nights for nine years: the God of Destruction himself.
Fenrir, forever branded a monster, has spent most of his long life at the mercy of his very nature and the cruel whims of the Aesir—all to protect his siblings. But when a fierce shield maiden from the mortal realm washes up on his shores, a hunger long-buried awakens, threatening to shatter the delicate hold he keeps on the monster that howls beneath his skin.
As the twisted threads of fate unravel, Revna and Fenrir’s desires grow into something undeniable. Together, they must face their pasts and the sinister forces that endanger not just all they care for, but the very fabric of fate itself.
Desires bind. Fates unfold.
And realms will tremble.
447 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2025
163 people are currently reading
1124 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
February 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
I adore a book that can grab my attention from the first page. Establishing a demanding Stabby FMC who’s in charge- hook, line, sinker. I enjoyed Revna’s character and the range of emotion she shared throughout the story.
Though the plot did get a bit shaky for me around 30-45% of the way in. I had to take a fraction of a star off because strong plot is something I hold to a high standard. But as an avid FR reader, I knew this was normal for a series debut. Once we pushed past that world building/ background knowledge - I couldn’t put it down! Now, I usually prefer my books that have strong plot guiding my female leads towards their purpose and the romance be (somewhat) secondary, but this couple was delicious! There’s something about a shifter bond that makes my heart melt for the primal possessiveness 🥵
I shed a few tears, lost sleep, sweated with that slow burn… that was SO WORTH THE WAIT! The ending was brutal, so prepare yourself! I will be waiting with bated breath with my eyes on the horizon for the sequel! 👏🏼
2.5 🌶️
I adore a book that can grab my attention from the first page. Establishing a demanding Stabby FMC who’s in charge- hook, line, sinker. I enjoyed Revna’s character and the range of emotion she shared throughout the story.
Though the plot did get a bit shaky for me around 30-45% of the way in. I had to take a fraction of a star off because strong plot is something I hold to a high standard. But as an avid FR reader, I knew this was normal for a series debut. Once we pushed past that world building/ background knowledge - I couldn’t put it down! Now, I usually prefer my books that have strong plot guiding my female leads towards their purpose and the romance be (somewhat) secondary, but this couple was delicious! There’s something about a shifter bond that makes my heart melt for the primal possessiveness 🥵
I shed a few tears, lost sleep, sweated with that slow burn… that was SO WORTH THE WAIT! The ending was brutal, so prepare yourself! I will be waiting with bated breath with my eyes on the horizon for the sequel! 👏🏼
January 4, 2025
This is a debut. Let me repeat that.
This. Is. A. Debut.
It has no business being this good.
Did I sob multiple times? Yes.
Was I enthralled by the story and the characters? Also yes.
Was I horny? Well duh. 🤣
An internet friend of mine (@heathers.happy.endings on IG) let me know it was going to be released (she is also in the acknowledgments, so immortalized in the best way!) and suggested I apply for an ARC, which I did because I trust her. This truly was an epic start to a GREAT series, and I'm eager to see where it goes.
I already messaged Rachel to ask when I could get a signed shelf trophy, cuz it's gonna be worth money in the not too distant future.
Go read it. As soon as you can. 😊 (It releases on 7 Jan, which is auspicious, as it's my daughter's birthday!🥰)
And also, epic cliffhanger. You've been warned.
This. Is. A. Debut.
It has no business being this good.
Did I sob multiple times? Yes.
Was I enthralled by the story and the characters? Also yes.
Was I horny? Well duh. 🤣
An internet friend of mine (@heathers.happy.endings on IG) let me know it was going to be released (she is also in the acknowledgments, so immortalized in the best way!) and suggested I apply for an ARC, which I did because I trust her. This truly was an epic start to a GREAT series, and I'm eager to see where it goes.
I already messaged Rachel to ask when I could get a signed shelf trophy, cuz it's gonna be worth money in the not too distant future.
Go read it. As soon as you can. 😊 (It releases on 7 Jan, which is auspicious, as it's my daughter's birthday!🥰)
And also, epic cliffhanger. You've been warned.
January 5, 2025
“𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮,” 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝.
𝐇𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧. “𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭?”
“𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲. 𝐈𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭.”
“𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐰𝐚𝐲.”
I am so excited to finally get to write this review. I was a beta reader for Rachel, and then an ARC reader, and honestly, I'm a reader of hers for life.
This Debut Norse Mythology Inspire Romantasy is everything. It was so incredibly good. The pacing, the romance, the yearning, the pining, the adventure, the bad ASS female characters, the feels, the emotions, the tears, the villains, the heros. EVERYTHING..
9 years ago Revna found a man bound in chains and saved his life, and when the boat that calls for souls called hers, he took her place. She never stopped mourning his loss, or forgiving him for what he did. She never thought she'd see him again, or discover who he really is....
When she does, the BANTER is so good, and the push and pull of these characters is PERFECTION.
“𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐝.” 𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐈𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝, 𝐲𝐞𝐬. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐚𝐳𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐲.
𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐚 𝐰𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞. “𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐛𝐨𝐲?”
(Thank you Rachel for the good boy)
In the realm of Gods and Monsters, things lurk, and wait, and there are prophesies in motion. I loved the different take on Odin and Thor mixed with a new look at Hel and Fenrir and Jormun.
This book has easy to digest world building with impeccable character development. From the Maidens, to the Gods, to Revna and Fenrir and everyone in between, even the side characters WILL BREAK YOUR HEART and make you feel things.
It had things I didn't know I needed. Strong women that care for each other. That are capable and willing to die for each other. That give you hard truths and lessons but also a shoulder to cry on.
"𝐖𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐲 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐰𝐞 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤.”
This book doesn't read like a debut and Rachel has such a huge future ahead of her. And I for one, need book two like yesterday. I'm so excited for people to read this.
"𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐠𝐨, 𝐈 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰. 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐈 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐧𝐝. 𝐈𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐠𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
Thank you Rachel for allowing me to read this early and for the ARC. I'm so proud of you!
𝐇𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧. “𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭?”
“𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲. 𝐈𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭.”
“𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐰𝐚𝐲.”
I am so excited to finally get to write this review. I was a beta reader for Rachel, and then an ARC reader, and honestly, I'm a reader of hers for life.
This Debut Norse Mythology Inspire Romantasy is everything. It was so incredibly good. The pacing, the romance, the yearning, the pining, the adventure, the bad ASS female characters, the feels, the emotions, the tears, the villains, the heros. EVERYTHING..
9 years ago Revna found a man bound in chains and saved his life, and when the boat that calls for souls called hers, he took her place. She never stopped mourning his loss, or forgiving him for what he did. She never thought she'd see him again, or discover who he really is....
When she does, the BANTER is so good, and the push and pull of these characters is PERFECTION.
“𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐝.” 𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐈𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝, 𝐲𝐞𝐬. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐚𝐳𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐲.
𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐚 𝐰𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞. “𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐛𝐨𝐲?”
(Thank you Rachel for the good boy)
In the realm of Gods and Monsters, things lurk, and wait, and there are prophesies in motion. I loved the different take on Odin and Thor mixed with a new look at Hel and Fenrir and Jormun.
This book has easy to digest world building with impeccable character development. From the Maidens, to the Gods, to Revna and Fenrir and everyone in between, even the side characters WILL BREAK YOUR HEART and make you feel things.
It had things I didn't know I needed. Strong women that care for each other. That are capable and willing to die for each other. That give you hard truths and lessons but also a shoulder to cry on.
"𝐖𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐲 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐰𝐞 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤.”
This book doesn't read like a debut and Rachel has such a huge future ahead of her. And I for one, need book two like yesterday. I'm so excited for people to read this.
"𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐠𝐨, 𝐈 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰. 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐈 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐧𝐝. 𝐈𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐠𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
Thank you Rachel for allowing me to read this early and for the ARC. I'm so proud of you!
December 30, 2024
By The Sharp and Shadowed Wings what a treat you ended up being!!! I started this book and couldn't and wouldn't put it down. I consumed this story in a day. Twenty five pages in and I knew the FMC Revna was a character I liked and here's why: she's fighting for vulnerable people, self sacrificing, and she's strong because of what she escaped and would no longer allow people to do to her. She's made herself strong and powerful and I liked that. She's brave, tough, but also relatable. I also felt like the pacing was just right. There was always something happening or something to discover but it was all manageable as the romance played out amidst the setting of Norse mythology. Speaking of the romance, this was another well done aspect. I felt like the MMC approached her with care. He saw her and gave her space and freedom to make choices. Once their romance was solidified he was the perfect amount of protective and possessive and um adoring. He also calls her a nickname in another language which is one of my favorite microtropes of all time. The ending will have you hitching a breath and wondering what comes next.
Thank you to Rachel N. Harker for the ARC in exchange for my honest review above.
Thank you to Rachel N. Harker for the ARC in exchange for my honest review above.
January 6, 2025
By the Sharp and Shadowed Wings is the blueprint of what I want all romantic fantasy to be: incredible worldbuilding, complex main AND side characters, a perfect mix of plot and romance, spicy scenes for the sake of the story and character development, and jaw dropping, unexpected twists.
I read BTSASW in basically one sitting. I could not put this down. In Chapter 1 I knew Revna was going to be my girl. We're contemplating gifting jewelry made from men's body parts to our coven? Say less. I LOVE a rage filled FMC who knows her mind and doesn't shy away from making tough decisions or kicking male ass.
And Fenrir, the grumpy, I'll do anything for my family, wolf-man-god that you are. I absolutely loved him. His dedication to his siblings, friends, court and Revna was so good. His character was so nuanced. He fell first, really, and we love that.
The writing? Are you kidding me? This is a DEBUT novel? It is unbelievable. I highlighted dozens of passages. The declarations were everything. The world building so complex but in an attainable way. The banter was great. The prophecies were FUN to try and decode. The vows. My gods.
This is basically the worst review ever for the best book ever. Please go read this. I promise that if you love fantasy romance you will not be disappointed... by anything except maybe that cliffhanger. WOW. Just wow. A million stars.
I read BTSASW in basically one sitting. I could not put this down. In Chapter 1 I knew Revna was going to be my girl. We're contemplating gifting jewelry made from men's body parts to our coven? Say less. I LOVE a rage filled FMC who knows her mind and doesn't shy away from making tough decisions or kicking male ass.
And Fenrir, the grumpy, I'll do anything for my family, wolf-man-god that you are. I absolutely loved him. His dedication to his siblings, friends, court and Revna was so good. His character was so nuanced. He fell first, really, and we love that.
The writing? Are you kidding me? This is a DEBUT novel? It is unbelievable. I highlighted dozens of passages. The declarations were everything. The world building so complex but in an attainable way. The banter was great. The prophecies were FUN to try and decode. The vows. My gods.
This is basically the worst review ever for the best book ever. Please go read this. I promise that if you love fantasy romance you will not be disappointed... by anything except maybe that cliffhanger. WOW. Just wow. A million stars.
January 5, 2025
First 5🌟 read of the year! Absolutely loved this DEBUT dark epic romantasy! Norse inspired, a mysterious prophecy with a fierce maiden warrior FMC Revna with a touch her and die yet cinnamon- role MMC take on saving the 9 realms. Great pacing, plot and rich characters - I cried multiple times.
The author paints a beautiful world tainted by darkness - that ending I need book 2 now!
Rachel N Harker is an author to watch i have no doubt this will be a fav read of 2025! Definitely was giving Road of Bones and Fate inked in Blood vibes! Thank you for the ARC opportunity!
The author paints a beautiful world tainted by darkness - that ending I need book 2 now!
Rachel N Harker is an author to watch i have no doubt this will be a fav read of 2025! Definitely was giving Road of Bones and Fate inked in Blood vibes! Thank you for the ARC opportunity!
January 7, 2025
"When I was lost to the darkness of my own mind, you were the light that guided me back-- you are my light in the darkness. Even after we were seperated, you guided me. You comforted me and, yes, sometimes you do drive me to fucking madness. I call you my mani because you are. Does that answer your question?"
5/5 stars for this incredible debut book!!
A spicy Nordic romantasy filled with intense scenes, power dynamics, prophecies, magic, and BAD ass women. I had the honor of beta reading this book and now am able to finally give it the proper review it deserves. By the Sharp and Shadowed Wings will captivate you and leave you wanting to devour the book right at the start.
The first thing I need to talk about is the world building, it is so unique and refreshing to read. The map in the beginning is not only beautiful but gives insight to a world of gods we have heard about but the new take on it being separated by roots of a tree is such an individual idea. I'm not going to go into the different worlds in this review just know the research and dedication to make sure this gave the world of Vikings and gods justice was so well thought out.
From chapter one you see the core of who the FMC is and everything she stands for. Revna was a tortured soul that broke free from enslavement and gains the favor of her king to take out the injustices happening in Myddheim. You see the family she has created with the Myddheim maidens and the power they hold in their world. Revna is loyal, cunning, incredibly strong, and will sacrifice everything in her power in order to keep who she loves safe.
"We may burn, but we do not break.
She is badass and one of my favorite FMC's I have read about. Her story comes with very stubborn tendencies and tough love. She will hold an axe at the front of the line, every time.
As the story develops and we get more of Revna's past we meet some of the best characters in the book. Fenrir the god of destruction, Hel the goddess of Helheim and his WONDERFUL sister. Tyr son of Odin and the god of love and war. Then of course, a character I'm actually frothing at the mouth to get an inkling more of, Jormun. The individual roles these characters play in the entire plot all were intentional and had a special place in my heart.
Fenrir never faltered when it came to Revna, his character arc and dedication for her the second they reunited was the reason why I could not put this down. I was so addicted to their tension that was building and this slow burn was actual torture. Fenrir is a great mmc always protecting those he loves and making sure his created family is the priority.
"I know this is a lot to take in. I know I'll need to apologize several more times for the truths I've withheld and the mistakes I've made." He leaned down so that his mouth was on her ear. "I will get on my knees every night for me wife and bed her for forgiveness if she'll let me."
Not to mention, the sparring scenes between him and Revna.... *sweats*
The found family, the Myddheim maidens and even the antagonists all come together to make this extremely well thought out and captivating story. There are so many characters I want perspectives of. The writing in and of itself is comprehendible and flows in an imaginary way that created the perfect image in my head. Rachel did an incredible job building the scenes and creating gruesome fights. She broke my freaking heart a little bit, (you know what you fkkn did Rachel) and still made me have a craving for more.
The events in this book keep you flipping the pages, the worlds are new and I cannot wait to see more of how it is built together. I feel like I could go on and on in this review about how much I genuinely loved the ARC.
I'm telling you, this ending is something that will leave me thinking about it for a long time. Its wild and made me cry. All the emotions were coming out as I was finishing those last chapters. PLEASE pick this book up and add to your priority list come January 7th!
ps. if you read the author's note you'll understand our shared love for a sparkly Cullen.
<3
5/5 stars for this incredible debut book!!
A spicy Nordic romantasy filled with intense scenes, power dynamics, prophecies, magic, and BAD ass women. I had the honor of beta reading this book and now am able to finally give it the proper review it deserves. By the Sharp and Shadowed Wings will captivate you and leave you wanting to devour the book right at the start.
The first thing I need to talk about is the world building, it is so unique and refreshing to read. The map in the beginning is not only beautiful but gives insight to a world of gods we have heard about but the new take on it being separated by roots of a tree is such an individual idea. I'm not going to go into the different worlds in this review just know the research and dedication to make sure this gave the world of Vikings and gods justice was so well thought out.
From chapter one you see the core of who the FMC is and everything she stands for. Revna was a tortured soul that broke free from enslavement and gains the favor of her king to take out the injustices happening in Myddheim. You see the family she has created with the Myddheim maidens and the power they hold in their world. Revna is loyal, cunning, incredibly strong, and will sacrifice everything in her power in order to keep who she loves safe.
"We may burn, but we do not break.
She is badass and one of my favorite FMC's I have read about. Her story comes with very stubborn tendencies and tough love. She will hold an axe at the front of the line, every time.
As the story develops and we get more of Revna's past we meet some of the best characters in the book. Fenrir the god of destruction, Hel the goddess of Helheim and his WONDERFUL sister. Tyr son of Odin and the god of love and war. Then of course, a character I'm actually frothing at the mouth to get an inkling more of, Jormun. The individual roles these characters play in the entire plot all were intentional and had a special place in my heart.
Fenrir never faltered when it came to Revna, his character arc and dedication for her the second they reunited was the reason why I could not put this down. I was so addicted to their tension that was building and this slow burn was actual torture. Fenrir is a great mmc always protecting those he loves and making sure his created family is the priority.
"I know this is a lot to take in. I know I'll need to apologize several more times for the truths I've withheld and the mistakes I've made." He leaned down so that his mouth was on her ear. "I will get on my knees every night for me wife and bed her for forgiveness if she'll let me."
Not to mention, the sparring scenes between him and Revna.... *sweats*
The found family, the Myddheim maidens and even the antagonists all come together to make this extremely well thought out and captivating story. There are so many characters I want perspectives of. The writing in and of itself is comprehendible and flows in an imaginary way that created the perfect image in my head. Rachel did an incredible job building the scenes and creating gruesome fights. She broke my freaking heart a little bit, (you know what you fkkn did Rachel) and still made me have a craving for more.
The events in this book keep you flipping the pages, the worlds are new and I cannot wait to see more of how it is built together. I feel like I could go on and on in this review about how much I genuinely loved the ARC.
I'm telling you, this ending is something that will leave me thinking about it for a long time. Its wild and made me cry. All the emotions were coming out as I was finishing those last chapters. PLEASE pick this book up and add to your priority list come January 7th!
ps. if you read the author's note you'll understand our shared love for a sparkly Cullen.
<3
January 2, 2025
**ARC Review: *By The Sharp and Shadowed Wings* by Rachel N. Harker**
I’m officially *obsessed* with this debut in the *Fate of the Nine* series! *By The Sharp and Shadowed Wings* is a breathtaking, slow-burn romantasy that took me on an unforgettable ride through a realm of gods, monsters, and unrelenting tension.
Revna, a mortal who once saved a mysterious stranger in a cave nine years ago, never expected that encounter to change her life. Fenrir, the wolf god she saved, was supposed to be lost to her forever—until fate pulls her back into his orbit. Now, as the next sacrifice for her realm, Revna finds herself in the realm of Gods and Monsters… and Fenrir is waiting for her.
The chemistry between Revna and Fenrir is *deliciously slow-burn*, to the point where I was practically screaming at them to kiss already! The slow build-up only made their connection feel that much more intense and rewarding. Harker masterfully weaves together tension, desire, and the weight of their shared history, making every moment between them feel loaded with meaning. But it’s not just their romance that captivated me—the world-building is rich, pulling you into a fully realized world where gods and monsters play by their own brutal rules.
I especially loved the hints of Hel—Fenrir’s sister, who is the God of the Hell realm. I’m *dying* to know more about her, and I can already feel that she’s going to be a major player in future books. The world of gods, monsters, and realms feels vast, and Harker has only scratched the surface.
While I adored the story, I can’t lie—there were moments when I *wanted* more. The pacing leaves you hungry for answers, and just when you think things are finally settling, the book ends on a *cliffhanger* that will have you *begging* for book two.
If you love slow-burn romance, complex relationships, and a world full of gods and danger, *By The Sharp and Shadowed Wings* is a must-read! I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
I’m officially *obsessed* with this debut in the *Fate of the Nine* series! *By The Sharp and Shadowed Wings* is a breathtaking, slow-burn romantasy that took me on an unforgettable ride through a realm of gods, monsters, and unrelenting tension.
Revna, a mortal who once saved a mysterious stranger in a cave nine years ago, never expected that encounter to change her life. Fenrir, the wolf god she saved, was supposed to be lost to her forever—until fate pulls her back into his orbit. Now, as the next sacrifice for her realm, Revna finds herself in the realm of Gods and Monsters… and Fenrir is waiting for her.
The chemistry between Revna and Fenrir is *deliciously slow-burn*, to the point where I was practically screaming at them to kiss already! The slow build-up only made their connection feel that much more intense and rewarding. Harker masterfully weaves together tension, desire, and the weight of their shared history, making every moment between them feel loaded with meaning. But it’s not just their romance that captivated me—the world-building is rich, pulling you into a fully realized world where gods and monsters play by their own brutal rules.
I especially loved the hints of Hel—Fenrir’s sister, who is the God of the Hell realm. I’m *dying* to know more about her, and I can already feel that she’s going to be a major player in future books. The world of gods, monsters, and realms feels vast, and Harker has only scratched the surface.
While I adored the story, I can’t lie—there were moments when I *wanted* more. The pacing leaves you hungry for answers, and just when you think things are finally settling, the book ends on a *cliffhanger* that will have you *begging* for book two.
If you love slow-burn romance, complex relationships, and a world full of gods and danger, *By The Sharp and Shadowed Wings* is a must-read! I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
January 6, 2025
The thoughts that cycled continuously through my head while reading this:
- oh my GOD
- oh daaaaaang 👀
- YES
- NO
-WTF?!? (Chapter 41 I'm looking at you and tearing up again)
I loved Every Single BIT of this beautiful wonderful book. The characters? Incredible, flawed, strong, imperfect perfection. The plot? Nonstop progression, intense moments hitting you in the gut with sprinkles of sweetness and stabs of action. The pacing wasn't too fast or too slow, which is something I often find can happen with longer fantasy stories.
And the writing?!? I mean, come on. If you don't fall in love with these characters and the world, idk what to tell you. You're wrong. (but not really because to each their own 🥺) Rachel N. Harker can weave a tale REALLY beautifully and you're not going to want to put the book down.
Thank you so much to the author for an ARC copy to read and review. And let me tell you when I say I will be signing up for book 2's ARC SO FAST if she's offering again.....yep. Yes, I will. Because I need more of all of this immediately.
- oh my GOD
- oh daaaaaang 👀
- YES
- NO
-WTF?!? (Chapter 41 I'm looking at you and tearing up again)
I loved Every Single BIT of this beautiful wonderful book. The characters? Incredible, flawed, strong, imperfect perfection. The plot? Nonstop progression, intense moments hitting you in the gut with sprinkles of sweetness and stabs of action. The pacing wasn't too fast or too slow, which is something I often find can happen with longer fantasy stories.
And the writing?!? I mean, come on. If you don't fall in love with these characters and the world, idk what to tell you. You're wrong. (but not really because to each their own 🥺) Rachel N. Harker can weave a tale REALLY beautifully and you're not going to want to put the book down.
Thank you so much to the author for an ARC copy to read and review. And let me tell you when I say I will be signing up for book 2's ARC SO FAST if she's offering again.....yep. Yes, I will. Because I need more of all of this immediately.
January 6, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book! I The writing and world building is top notch. Rachel creates such an interesting world based on the Gods and Monsters of Norse mythology. This is absolutely everything I want in a Romantasy.
Revna is one of my new favorite bad-ass FMC's. She is brave, and self-sacrificing and refuses to let anyone make her feel weak. She fights to control her fate and protect those she loves. She also felt so relatable and real.
Fenrir. I cannot say enough about how much I love this man. Like Revna, he will also do anything he can to protect the people he loves. I love the family he has built himself in Vanaheim and how much he is willing to do to keep all of his people safe. (Definitely got Rhys/Velaris vibes)
The romance between Revna and Fenrir was exquisite. I love them together so much. Their chemistry was fire from the very beginnning. It was a tiny bit of a slow burn and the pay off was so so so good.
There is also a wonderful cast of side characters and such a great sense of found family. I loved that Tyr and Hel pretty much immediately accepted Revna as part of their Vanaheim family. Hel is also bad ass and I want to know so much more about her! I feel like she's going to be very important in the next book!
I don't really know what else to say except READ THIS! It's perfect for fans a A Fate Inked in Blood (I actually like this even better ☺️)
Thank you to the author for providing an eARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Revna is one of my new favorite bad-ass FMC's. She is brave, and self-sacrificing and refuses to let anyone make her feel weak. She fights to control her fate and protect those she loves. She also felt so relatable and real.
Fenrir. I cannot say enough about how much I love this man. Like Revna, he will also do anything he can to protect the people he loves. I love the family he has built himself in Vanaheim and how much he is willing to do to keep all of his people safe. (Definitely got Rhys/Velaris vibes)
The romance between Revna and Fenrir was exquisite. I love them together so much. Their chemistry was fire from the very beginnning. It was a tiny bit of a slow burn and the pay off was so so so good.
There is also a wonderful cast of side characters and such a great sense of found family. I loved that Tyr and Hel pretty much immediately accepted Revna as part of their Vanaheim family. Hel is also bad ass and I want to know so much more about her! I feel like she's going to be very important in the next book!
I don't really know what else to say except READ THIS! It's perfect for fans a A Fate Inked in Blood (I actually like this even better ☺️)
Thank you to the author for providing an eARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2025
Holy crap! I’m not sure what was in this book but damn was it good.
The debut novel and it hit.
The Norse mythology was clearly researched. It wasn’t just an oh I’ve heard of this and will make my own version. While
I’m sure small things were tweaked for the story I loved that things were kept as they can be found in the Norse stories.
Revna and Fenrir were destined to be together. They were brought together and through the toughest of trials and the darkest of times. While fighting their way out both gave sacrifices for the other.
Revna is the commander of the shield maidens. She is strong and will not take shit from anyone…including the gods. She has her moral compass and will not stray from the path for the right. She will fight for those she loves with all she has.
Fenrir is the god on a leash. He is being kept as close to Odin as the Allfather dares. He will do as he is told or there will be consequences.
Both are drawn together not only by love but by fate. They are bound together through time and while fate can go either way for them. They are fighting for each other. As the time of the prophecies draw near they both must fight for not only themselves but each other. For those they love and the life that they want to live.
The question is will they both make it out alive?
The debut novel and it hit.
The Norse mythology was clearly researched. It wasn’t just an oh I’ve heard of this and will make my own version. While
I’m sure small things were tweaked for the story I loved that things were kept as they can be found in the Norse stories.
Revna and Fenrir were destined to be together. They were brought together and through the toughest of trials and the darkest of times. While fighting their way out both gave sacrifices for the other.
Revna is the commander of the shield maidens. She is strong and will not take shit from anyone…including the gods. She has her moral compass and will not stray from the path for the right. She will fight for those she loves with all she has.
Fenrir is the god on a leash. He is being kept as close to Odin as the Allfather dares. He will do as he is told or there will be consequences.
Both are drawn together not only by love but by fate. They are bound together through time and while fate can go either way for them. They are fighting for each other. As the time of the prophecies draw near they both must fight for not only themselves but each other. For those they love and the life that they want to live.
The question is will they both make it out alive?
January 7, 2025
Thank you to Rachel N. Harker for this advanced copy! You can pick up By the Sharp and Shadowed Wings on January 7, 2025.
You guys. THIS IS IT! This is THE romantasy book I've been WAITING for!! Not only was Rachel's writing absolutely gorgeous, but the way she crafted this story is also SO impressive.
We meet our main character, Revna, in the most badass of ways (as she takes down criminal slavers from the inside), and from then on we learn so much about her strength, her struggles, and what she sacrificed to get to where she's at. Revna is one of the most fleshed-out romantasy characters I've ever met, and I loved watching her open up to Fenrir, Hel, Tyr, Austri, and more throughout the story.
And that's another part I loved about this book -- found family. Y'all KNOW I'm a sucker for a good found family, and this one TRULY feels earned. We're not just throwing characters into a room and expecting them to get along. We're getting backstories, shared trials, and true relationship-building between so many different characters, including MY MANS, Fenrir.
Fenrir is everything I could want in a romantasy MMC -- hot and broody but COMMUNICATIVE and supportive, not just banter-y. Don't get me wrong, the banter and flirting are there, but there's so much substance to this world and story that we truly FEEL the relationship building between him and Revna. It was a slowburn in the truest way and I loved the progression of their relationship. Not only were the spicy scenes delicious but the intimate and vulnerable moments between them too were so good.
Lastly, Rachel crafted a world that feels familiar if you know Norse mythology, but it has a totally unique spin on it! I loved exploring the nine realms, being introduced to different gods and monsters, and exploring the magic that comprises this world.
The ending cliffhanger was also CRIMINAL and left me with more questions than answers. Rachel, don't be surprised if I'm banging down your door to get my hands on the sequel.
I am begging each and every one of my romantasy and fantasy romance girlies to PICK THIS ONE UP AND ENJOY!
You guys. THIS IS IT! This is THE romantasy book I've been WAITING for!! Not only was Rachel's writing absolutely gorgeous, but the way she crafted this story is also SO impressive.
We meet our main character, Revna, in the most badass of ways (as she takes down criminal slavers from the inside), and from then on we learn so much about her strength, her struggles, and what she sacrificed to get to where she's at. Revna is one of the most fleshed-out romantasy characters I've ever met, and I loved watching her open up to Fenrir, Hel, Tyr, Austri, and more throughout the story.
And that's another part I loved about this book -- found family. Y'all KNOW I'm a sucker for a good found family, and this one TRULY feels earned. We're not just throwing characters into a room and expecting them to get along. We're getting backstories, shared trials, and true relationship-building between so many different characters, including MY MANS, Fenrir.
Fenrir is everything I could want in a romantasy MMC -- hot and broody but COMMUNICATIVE and supportive, not just banter-y. Don't get me wrong, the banter and flirting are there, but there's so much substance to this world and story that we truly FEEL the relationship building between him and Revna. It was a slowburn in the truest way and I loved the progression of their relationship. Not only were the spicy scenes delicious but the intimate and vulnerable moments between them too were so good.
Lastly, Rachel crafted a world that feels familiar if you know Norse mythology, but it has a totally unique spin on it! I loved exploring the nine realms, being introduced to different gods and monsters, and exploring the magic that comprises this world.
The ending cliffhanger was also CRIMINAL and left me with more questions than answers. Rachel, don't be surprised if I'm banging down your door to get my hands on the sequel.
I am begging each and every one of my romantasy and fantasy romance girlies to PICK THIS ONE UP AND ENJOY!
January 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this! Great way to kick off the year. The usage of Norse mythology was really well done, impeccable world building. I wish there was slightly more tension between the main characters or some flash backs to the past, I wanna know more about that relationship before the book. (Prayers for a prequel?) The ending had me spinning, WHAT is going to happen
February 7, 2025
Wow.
Harker is a new author but oh my stars she blew me away with this romantic fantasy built on a Norse mythology framework.
The world building is rich and atmospheric. There’s pain, longing, betrayal, rage, and real family. All that good epic stuff.
It’s the first in a series and the others aren’t out yet, but don’t let that stop you.
“Revna hummed thoughtfully. Though she’d never had a mother to speak of, she understood the shift that took place when you decided to no longer tolerate that kind of abuse. It’s slow at first, then all at once, like waking by being doused in icy water.”
Harker is a new author but oh my stars she blew me away with this romantic fantasy built on a Norse mythology framework.
The world building is rich and atmospheric. There’s pain, longing, betrayal, rage, and real family. All that good epic stuff.
It’s the first in a series and the others aren’t out yet, but don’t let that stop you.
“Revna hummed thoughtfully. Though she’d never had a mother to speak of, she understood the shift that took place when you decided to no longer tolerate that kind of abuse. It’s slow at first, then all at once, like waking by being doused in icy water.”
March 12, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ This plot meandered and gave my brain time abundant opportunity to wander to anything but this story. There was some minor mystery, that I wasn’t invested in because it was the usual self sacrificing tropes, and even the romance didn’t bring enough tension to the story. The characters were interesting at first but I didn’t find their growth very satisfying and there was very little transformation from the beginning to the end. I honestly skimmed the entire last 15% because I couldn’t do it anymore. I wish I’d DNF’ed it but the writing was strong at first and I was interested in the Nordic mythology inspiration.
April 7, 2025
predictable but a vibe
January 6, 2025
It is crazy to me that this is a debut! Norse inspired fantasy worlds have fast become a favorite of mine and this one does not disappoint! I loved this basically from page one with the content about shield maidens where you really get to be with that group for a bit before the plot really plots. Revna is a badass and I think I want to be her when I grow up. Look, this book gives shield maidens, gods at war or pre war with each other, interesting takes on Norse gods, and fantastic side characters that I'm looking forward to getting to know further! My one "complaint" (and reallly it is more like I want more of X) is that I just want a little more understanding of the world and more emotional scenes between the two main characters so I can see the relationship developing.
I love that it is friends to lovers of a sort so it isn't insta love but just people that have a BACKSTORY with each other. :). However, this is book one so I also am calling myself out because I don't think I can expect the full world to be built in book one if that makes sense. I love when a writer writes good side characters and this book delivers. Hel might be my favorite character because Rachel Harker took a figure that is often depicted as terrifying and humanized her. She depicted her in a way that is terrifying but also like someone you've known your life so she isn't as terrifying. Basically, she really GOT the dualitiy of a death figure.
Read if you like: Norse mythology, complex characters, humanized gods, and high stakes. If you liked Amanda Bouchet's the Kingmaker Chronicles (Promise of Fire) you might like this!
Quotes hidden by spoiler tag but I loved these:
I love that it is friends to lovers of a sort so it isn't insta love but just people that have a BACKSTORY with each other. :). However, this is book one so I also am calling myself out because I don't think I can expect the full world to be built in book one if that makes sense. I love when a writer writes good side characters and this book delivers. Hel might be my favorite character because Rachel Harker took a figure that is often depicted as terrifying and humanized her. She depicted her in a way that is terrifying but also like someone you've known your life so she isn't as terrifying. Basically, she really GOT the dualitiy of a death figure.
Read if you like: Norse mythology, complex characters, humanized gods, and high stakes. If you liked Amanda Bouchet's the Kingmaker Chronicles (Promise of Fire) you might like this!
Quotes hidden by spoiler tag but I loved these:
January 28, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ round up to 5 stars ⭐️
Ummmmmm what was that ending?! I need book two now! Respectfully. I love the strength of tenacity of Revna. Her fearless leadership is something to aspire to! Fenrir!!!! Our poor tortured baby boy! I love you so much and the strength and courage you possess is unparalled. Hel and Tyr were the perfect additions to the storyline and I found myself getting giddy whenever they are on the page.
What To Expect:
🗡️ Norse Romantasy
🗡️Found Family
🗡️Dual POV
🗡️Banter
🗡️Spice 🌶️
🗡️Touch him/her ☠️
🗡️Gods and Monsters
🗡️Prophecies
🗡️ Trigger Warning ⚠️ (may contain spoilers)
•Graphic Violence: Including combat scenes and past-tense mentions of physical abuse, torture, and food deprivation. •Captivity/Slavery
•Past-tense mentions of characters experiencing abusive and exploitative situations while held in captivity. Self-Sacrifice and
•Self-Harm: Themes of self-sacrificing tendencies which may be interpreted as self-harm and self-destructive decision making.
•Mental Health Themes: Includes grief, loss, and themes of depression, anxiety, and emotional trauma.
•Explicit Sexual Content: Detailed and explicit depictions of sexual activity.
🗡️and so much more
I wish at times there was a little bit more conflict and details within the story. However it was a solid debut and I loved this story so much. Congratulations Rachel! And I can’t wait for book two.
Ummmmmm what was that ending?! I need book two now! Respectfully. I love the strength of tenacity of Revna. Her fearless leadership is something to aspire to! Fenrir!!!! Our poor tortured baby boy! I love you so much and the strength and courage you possess is unparalled. Hel and Tyr were the perfect additions to the storyline and I found myself getting giddy whenever they are on the page.
What To Expect:
🗡️ Norse Romantasy
🗡️Found Family
🗡️Dual POV
🗡️Banter
🗡️Spice 🌶️
🗡️Touch him/her ☠️
🗡️Gods and Monsters
🗡️Prophecies
🗡️ Trigger Warning ⚠️ (may contain spoilers)
•Graphic Violence: Including combat scenes and past-tense mentions of physical abuse, torture, and food deprivation. •Captivity/Slavery
•Past-tense mentions of characters experiencing abusive and exploitative situations while held in captivity. Self-Sacrifice and
•Self-Harm: Themes of self-sacrificing tendencies which may be interpreted as self-harm and self-destructive decision making.
•Mental Health Themes: Includes grief, loss, and themes of depression, anxiety, and emotional trauma.
•Explicit Sexual Content: Detailed and explicit depictions of sexual activity.
🗡️and so much more
I wish at times there was a little bit more conflict and details within the story. However it was a solid debut and I loved this story so much. Congratulations Rachel! And I can’t wait for book two.
May 15, 2025
I enjoyed this book! It has a strong FMC named Revna who is an escaped slave turned badass shield maiden. The MMC is Fenrir, the wolf God. They have a history with one another from 9 years before the beginning of this book. When they come into each other's lives again, is it fate? There is hurt and mistrust that Revna has to overcome. They had effortless banter, I just wanted more when it came to the tension.
I liked the journey of them traveling to see the Norns. My personal favorite was the primal chase scene, 🔥👌🏻. The pace did slow down for me in the middle but then picked back up around 80%. That ending though.... I need to know what happens next!
▪️Norse Mythology
▪️Dual POV
▪️Gods & Monsters
▪️Fate/Prophecies
▪️Found Family
2/5 🌶
I liked the journey of them traveling to see the Norns. My personal favorite was the primal chase scene, 🔥👌🏻. The pace did slow down for me in the middle but then picked back up around 80%. That ending though.... I need to know what happens next!
▪️Norse Mythology
▪️Dual POV
▪️Gods & Monsters
▪️Fate/Prophecies
▪️Found Family
2/5 🌶
July 28, 2025
This was a romantic fantasy done right, in my opinion. The world building was based on Norse mythology and made sense. The MMC was broody and strong but at the same time kind and understanding. The FMC was strong willed and brave but also willing to listen and was compassionate. The MCs actually communicated about their feelings and advised each other. They were truly a team when after some slowish burn they got together. It was a joy to read. I loved the side characters and how both MCs interacted with them. The plot twists were good and fit with the overall flow of the story. The steam was amazing. The ending did end in a cliffhanger but I didn't feel angry about that. The book was so good that nothing about it would upset me. I am looking forward to the second one when it comes out.
January 3, 2025
You know the feeling that you get when you start a book and know it’s gonna be a good one? Rachel knocked it outta the park with this story. The ending was so so so incredibly good and haunting. If I could give a million stars, I would.
First book of 2025 and it was perfection.
Thank you Rachel N. Harker for this gifted ARC 🫶🏻 you truly outdid yourself.
First book of 2025 and it was perfection.
Thank you Rachel N. Harker for this gifted ARC 🫶🏻 you truly outdid yourself.
June 18, 2025
Mildly Infuriating
This book is all centred around Norse mythology. Our FMC, Revna, ends up in Vanaheim, with Fenrir, the MMC, Hel, Tyr, and a host of others from all 9 realms. We see all the usual players throughout; Odin, Thor, Loki, the Norns.
I don’t really like Revna. She’s too volatile, a hypocrite of the highest order, an unnecessary martyr, a grudge holder, and arrogant. She’s easily offended by everything and refuses to let anyone care about her or do things to protect her. She sees everything as a betrayal and that makes zero sense. It’s a very juvenile characteristic. We see some character growth about midway through but she devolves quickly into her usual angry arrogance.
Her actions near the end are those of a coward and a huge betrayal to Fenrir. Ironic considering her constantly feeling betrayed. I don’t know that I’ve ever disliked an FMC as much as I do Revna.
This book needs a good edit. There’s a number of grammatical mistakes and at least a few punctuation errors too. There’s words in the wrong places in sentences, words completely missed. It takes you out of what is otherwise a good story. There’s also the odd really obscure word used, that’s correct, but I’d say 99% of people have to look up the meaning of. When authors do this, it just makes me think they used a thesaurus and found the most out there word in the list.
In some chapters we randomly get the opposite POV for a sentence or two and you can tell it’s a mistake.
There’s plot is really the only thing this book has going for it and that’s hurt by the actions of the FMC. Using martyrism as a plot device is fine in the right circumstances, but that just doesn’t feel like the case here.
I don’t know if I’ll continue this series or not. I’m too angry at the FMC right now.
This book is all centred around Norse mythology. Our FMC, Revna, ends up in Vanaheim, with Fenrir, the MMC, Hel, Tyr, and a host of others from all 9 realms. We see all the usual players throughout; Odin, Thor, Loki, the Norns.
I don’t really like Revna. She’s too volatile, a hypocrite of the highest order, an unnecessary martyr, a grudge holder, and arrogant. She’s easily offended by everything and refuses to let anyone care about her or do things to protect her. She sees everything as a betrayal and that makes zero sense. It’s a very juvenile characteristic. We see some character growth about midway through but she devolves quickly into her usual angry arrogance.
Her actions near the end are those of a coward and a huge betrayal to Fenrir. Ironic considering her constantly feeling betrayed. I don’t know that I’ve ever disliked an FMC as much as I do Revna.
This book needs a good edit. There’s a number of grammatical mistakes and at least a few punctuation errors too. There’s words in the wrong places in sentences, words completely missed. It takes you out of what is otherwise a good story. There’s also the odd really obscure word used, that’s correct, but I’d say 99% of people have to look up the meaning of. When authors do this, it just makes me think they used a thesaurus and found the most out there word in the list.
In some chapters we randomly get the opposite POV for a sentence or two and you can tell it’s a mistake.
There’s plot is really the only thing this book has going for it and that’s hurt by the actions of the FMC. Using martyrism as a plot device is fine in the right circumstances, but that just doesn’t feel like the case here.
I don’t know if I’ll continue this series or not. I’m too angry at the FMC right now.
May 29, 2025
Add another DNF to the list
Made it to 24% and then finally abandoned.
This was a last resort, I have nothing else to read kind of book. Turned out to be a mistake.
I found it incredibly slow, boring and a storyline that was incredibly uninteresting. MFC was predictably an exact carbon copy of about 90 percent of the MFCs in this genre. This one in particular was irritating as all get out. Of course she is angry, cruel and arrogant. No surprise there. Completely unjustified anger and inflicted cruelty too.
He sacrificed his life to save her, so of course she’s angry with him. How dare he not let her die? She’ll show him!
He COULD NOT tell her that he was a god. How that changed their relationship given that they were strangers to each other is beyond me. But according to her he’s a dirty liar for not being able to tell her this piece of information.
She was chosen by the gods (not him) as a sacrifice again. Instead of dying she ends up living a very nice existence in his keep and under his protection. Yet somehow he is to blame for her being there. He is at fault for everything.
And how dare he give her the rules of his realm! She can do whatever she wants!
Gah. I want to gag. So cliche and predictable.
I get that the author is looking for reasons to create her psycho personality. At least give us reasons that actually make sense. Heavens forbid that she couldn’t have other personality traits.
Predictable characters. Very slow. Incredibly boring.
My opinion, don’t waste your time.
Made it to 24% and then finally abandoned.
This was a last resort, I have nothing else to read kind of book. Turned out to be a mistake.
I found it incredibly slow, boring and a storyline that was incredibly uninteresting. MFC was predictably an exact carbon copy of about 90 percent of the MFCs in this genre. This one in particular was irritating as all get out. Of course she is angry, cruel and arrogant. No surprise there. Completely unjustified anger and inflicted cruelty too.
He sacrificed his life to save her, so of course she’s angry with him. How dare he not let her die? She’ll show him!
He COULD NOT tell her that he was a god. How that changed their relationship given that they were strangers to each other is beyond me. But according to her he’s a dirty liar for not being able to tell her this piece of information.
She was chosen by the gods (not him) as a sacrifice again. Instead of dying she ends up living a very nice existence in his keep and under his protection. Yet somehow he is to blame for her being there. He is at fault for everything.
And how dare he give her the rules of his realm! She can do whatever she wants!
Gah. I want to gag. So cliche and predictable.
I get that the author is looking for reasons to create her psycho personality. At least give us reasons that actually make sense. Heavens forbid that she couldn’t have other personality traits.
Predictable characters. Very slow. Incredibly boring.
My opinion, don’t waste your time.
January 7, 2025
I cannot believe this was a debut novel. I was instantly hooked and pulled into the characters and their story.
The world building was easy to follow. The pacing was perfect. And I fell in love with the characters. Revna who is a badass woman fighting against injustice. I loved our brief glimpse of the Myddheim maidens and hope we get to see more of them in the future. Fenrir is fierce in his desire to protect those that he loves. Austri, Tyr, Hel - I adored the found family.
I cannot wait to see where Rachel takes us next after that ending. I need book two ASAP.
Thanks to the author for an advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The world building was easy to follow. The pacing was perfect. And I fell in love with the characters. Revna who is a badass woman fighting against injustice. I loved our brief glimpse of the Myddheim maidens and hope we get to see more of them in the future. Fenrir is fierce in his desire to protect those that he loves. Austri, Tyr, Hel - I adored the found family.
I cannot wait to see where Rachel takes us next after that ending. I need book two ASAP.
Thanks to the author for an advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 23, 2025
i found myself annoyed or just trying to get through most of this.
everything was ‘eh’ and there wasnt enough tension or intrigue to keep my attention. everyone stayed the same and they were pretty boring to begin with, and the plot fell flat for me. i wish i could explain it more but for me is was not hitting the spot and cant dive into why because i dont care enough.
only stayed with this for my reading goal and the last quarter was skimmed.
everything was ‘eh’ and there wasnt enough tension or intrigue to keep my attention. everyone stayed the same and they were pretty boring to begin with, and the plot fell flat for me. i wish i could explain it more but for me is was not hitting the spot and cant dive into why because i dont care enough.
only stayed with this for my reading goal and the last quarter was skimmed.
January 14, 2025
This book was so confused and I was just so uninterested in the plot
February 13, 2025
3.5
I liked the writing but I don't know why I didn't feel connected to the story.
I liked the writing but I don't know why I didn't feel connected to the story.
April 4, 2025
The romance was ok I guess. The rest was mediocre. Needlessly drawn out.
January 13, 2025
Potential spoilers, use caution (just in case)
There is no rating that could encompass how much I loved this book (and how much it surprised me). I did not want to put this down. I stumbled across this author by searching for another and immediately downloaded this book to my Kindle after reading the description. This is a DEBUT novel, and I’m shook. The story is so fresh, and our characters are written/developed so well that I have already added this author to my favorites list – auto buy, every time. I cannot wait for the next book. I’m already SO eager to get my hands on more.
This is romantasy done so, so well. The plot kept moving forward, but our character development was still prioritized without sacrificing the pacing of the story. The found family is flawlessly done and my favorite part of the book (also, my favorite trope). The banter was delightful; the insight into their individual and collective trauma was heartbreaking. The side characters became as important to me as our MMC and FMC; when one character suffered, I felt their pain as a reader. My beloved Austri; Ingrid, Asta, Hel and Tyr, and Jormun – all of them were so important to Revna and her story, but no matter how much time was dedicated to each on page, I felt their impact to our FMC’s determination to keep moving, and her role in the prophesy we don’t really understand until we’re meant to.
This is a story based loosely on Norse mythology with gods and monsters of myth brought to life through Rachel’s vivid storytelling. Our MMC, Fenrir, is dark and broody with trauma he is still working through while trying to navigate his place among the Gods. Our FMC, Revna, is mortal, but her strength lies in her vulnerability and willingness to trust even through the trauma she has experienced and ultimately, her desire to protect those she loves, no matter the cost to herself. The book opens with her defending other women and children against the monsters of her realm, the human realm, and the sacrifices she is willing to make to ensure her friends and family’s survival. Both Fenrir and Revna are remarkably similar in that way.
We have impeccable worldbuilding that is slowly introduced yet done really well; the world was surprisingly unique considering the gods and goddesses are from Norse mythology, and I laughed out loud at Thor’s description (IYKYK). We learn more as Revna learns about her role and place among the realms, including some of the gods and their innate selfishness and predisposition for war and chaos, regardless of consequence.
The romance was flawlessly developed. The chemistry could be felt from the first handful of chapters, and the tension was delicious. The emotion it pulled was intense, but the payout was so worth it. This book made me feel so many things. It is beautifully written, and while I read this on Kindle initially, I will be purchasing a copy for my collection and adding this to my top tier favorites list. Well done, Mrs. Harker, well done indeed. I sincerely hope this story gets the traction it deserves from the book community. (Note: there are some minor grammatical errors, but that does not bother me, nor should that detract from the rating this author/novel deserves).
***Spoiler Warning***
Austri, that one hurt. I am unwell. And the prophesy, that ending – I feel like Revna’s prized axe is lodged in MY chest on that ending. Wow.
Favorite Quotes (or sayings):
“Every corner was filled with the ghost of possibilities, of a childhood that could have been so full of love and laughter but instead was wounded and infected.”
“Wherever you go, I follow. Whatever you fight, I fight. And I will fight with you, fight for you, until the dark and burning end. In life and in death, there is not a place that you can go that I will not follow you.”
“But she was the fucking Goddess of Death, and darkness was an extension of her.”
And my favorite, “Fuck you, Allfather.” (I felt this in my soul). And “hammer-head-thunder-nuts” is the only name I will use for that person (now).
There is no rating that could encompass how much I loved this book (and how much it surprised me). I did not want to put this down. I stumbled across this author by searching for another and immediately downloaded this book to my Kindle after reading the description. This is a DEBUT novel, and I’m shook. The story is so fresh, and our characters are written/developed so well that I have already added this author to my favorites list – auto buy, every time. I cannot wait for the next book. I’m already SO eager to get my hands on more.
This is romantasy done so, so well. The plot kept moving forward, but our character development was still prioritized without sacrificing the pacing of the story. The found family is flawlessly done and my favorite part of the book (also, my favorite trope). The banter was delightful; the insight into their individual and collective trauma was heartbreaking. The side characters became as important to me as our MMC and FMC; when one character suffered, I felt their pain as a reader. My beloved Austri; Ingrid, Asta, Hel and Tyr, and Jormun – all of them were so important to Revna and her story, but no matter how much time was dedicated to each on page, I felt their impact to our FMC’s determination to keep moving, and her role in the prophesy we don’t really understand until we’re meant to.
This is a story based loosely on Norse mythology with gods and monsters of myth brought to life through Rachel’s vivid storytelling. Our MMC, Fenrir, is dark and broody with trauma he is still working through while trying to navigate his place among the Gods. Our FMC, Revna, is mortal, but her strength lies in her vulnerability and willingness to trust even through the trauma she has experienced and ultimately, her desire to protect those she loves, no matter the cost to herself. The book opens with her defending other women and children against the monsters of her realm, the human realm, and the sacrifices she is willing to make to ensure her friends and family’s survival. Both Fenrir and Revna are remarkably similar in that way.
We have impeccable worldbuilding that is slowly introduced yet done really well; the world was surprisingly unique considering the gods and goddesses are from Norse mythology, and I laughed out loud at Thor’s description (IYKYK). We learn more as Revna learns about her role and place among the realms, including some of the gods and their innate selfishness and predisposition for war and chaos, regardless of consequence.
The romance was flawlessly developed. The chemistry could be felt from the first handful of chapters, and the tension was delicious. The emotion it pulled was intense, but the payout was so worth it. This book made me feel so many things. It is beautifully written, and while I read this on Kindle initially, I will be purchasing a copy for my collection and adding this to my top tier favorites list. Well done, Mrs. Harker, well done indeed. I sincerely hope this story gets the traction it deserves from the book community. (Note: there are some minor grammatical errors, but that does not bother me, nor should that detract from the rating this author/novel deserves).
***Spoiler Warning***
Austri, that one hurt. I am unwell. And the prophesy, that ending – I feel like Revna’s prized axe is lodged in MY chest on that ending. Wow.
Favorite Quotes (or sayings):
“Every corner was filled with the ghost of possibilities, of a childhood that could have been so full of love and laughter but instead was wounded and infected.”
“Wherever you go, I follow. Whatever you fight, I fight. And I will fight with you, fight for you, until the dark and burning end. In life and in death, there is not a place that you can go that I will not follow you.”
“But she was the fucking Goddess of Death, and darkness was an extension of her.”
And my favorite, “Fuck you, Allfather.” (I felt this in my soul). And “hammer-head-thunder-nuts” is the only name I will use for that person (now).
February 4, 2025
Norse gods, found family, and a god who is suppose to be evil but has a heart of gold and will do anything for those he loves.
My only knowledge of Norse mythology is from the Avengers movies so while this book will describe Thor as a redhead, he will forever be Chris Hemsworth in my mind. I enjoyed the take on Odin, Thor, and those from Asgard as having nefarious plans and not being the good guys I would expect.
SUMMARY
Fenrir met Revna in Myddheim before the book started. Fenrir took her place as a sacrifice to Asgard which set off a series of events causing Revna to continue to fight to show her worth and value by becoming commander of the Shield Maidens and working to end slavery. At the time, she did not know he was the God of Destruction. Fenrir and his siblings are known as abominations and evil. They are generally feared by all. Enter: Odin trying to gain control over them to do his bidding. Revna finds herself in the land of the gods with no way back Myddheim and unsure of her new purpose.
CHARACTERS ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Revna is portrayed as a strong FMC who overcame slavery and is the commander of the shield maidens. She starts off the book with all this confidence and swagger yet when she arrives to Vanaheim seems to loose it the confidence and self worth. I totally get that she blames herself for the problems of the realm, but her time and experiences as a commander and leader of women over the 9 years before she ends up in Vanaheim should have provided her with more growth.
“The Gods had abandoned Myddheim. And it was all her fault.” - this is Revna’s view for the whole book. She overcomes it for moments but her lack of growth in this area seems inconsistent with her general badass persona. The lack of personal growth from the time she meets Fenrick to the end of the book is disappointing
Fenrir is the God of destruction - son of Loki and a witch. He rules Vanaheim as a place for outcasts to find peace. He falls hard for Revna and will tear the world apart for her.
“And Fenrir knew in that moment that he would rather take every arrow meant for her than see her in this much pain again.” His devotion to Revna is beautiful.
The found family at the keep in Vanaheim is a fun group and provides a lot of balance to the book. Hel and Tyr are the main focus but I loved Austri. I’m hoping we get more of the shield maidens in the next book.
PLOT ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story was fun and easy to follow. The world building was simple but effective. It’s predictable. There was many areas of opportunity to provide plot twists.
STARS: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ROMANCE:❤️❤️❤️
SPICE 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ON KINDLE UNLIMITED!
WHAT I LIKED
I really liked the supporting characters and the layers they brought to the story. I enjoyed the world building and the easy to follow story. It’s a fun easy read.
WHAT I DISLIKED
I disliked the choices Revna makes. I don’t like that she made promises and then went back on her word. She gives up on herself completely and that doesn’t seem the fit with her character. She needs to make better choices!
TROPES
Slow burn romance
Norse Mythology
Rekindled romance
Prophecy
Gods and mortals
Strong FMC
found family
Forced proximity
My only knowledge of Norse mythology is from the Avengers movies so while this book will describe Thor as a redhead, he will forever be Chris Hemsworth in my mind. I enjoyed the take on Odin, Thor, and those from Asgard as having nefarious plans and not being the good guys I would expect.
SUMMARY
Fenrir met Revna in Myddheim before the book started. Fenrir took her place as a sacrifice to Asgard which set off a series of events causing Revna to continue to fight to show her worth and value by becoming commander of the Shield Maidens and working to end slavery. At the time, she did not know he was the God of Destruction. Fenrir and his siblings are known as abominations and evil. They are generally feared by all. Enter: Odin trying to gain control over them to do his bidding. Revna finds herself in the land of the gods with no way back Myddheim and unsure of her new purpose.
CHARACTERS ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Revna is portrayed as a strong FMC who overcame slavery and is the commander of the shield maidens. She starts off the book with all this confidence and swagger yet when she arrives to Vanaheim seems to loose it the confidence and self worth. I totally get that she blames herself for the problems of the realm, but her time and experiences as a commander and leader of women over the 9 years before she ends up in Vanaheim should have provided her with more growth.
“The Gods had abandoned Myddheim. And it was all her fault.” - this is Revna’s view for the whole book. She overcomes it for moments but her lack of growth in this area seems inconsistent with her general badass persona. The lack of personal growth from the time she meets Fenrick to the end of the book is disappointing
Fenrir is the God of destruction - son of Loki and a witch. He rules Vanaheim as a place for outcasts to find peace. He falls hard for Revna and will tear the world apart for her.
“And Fenrir knew in that moment that he would rather take every arrow meant for her than see her in this much pain again.” His devotion to Revna is beautiful.
The found family at the keep in Vanaheim is a fun group and provides a lot of balance to the book. Hel and Tyr are the main focus but I loved Austri. I’m hoping we get more of the shield maidens in the next book.
PLOT ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story was fun and easy to follow. The world building was simple but effective. It’s predictable. There was many areas of opportunity to provide plot twists.
STARS: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ROMANCE:❤️❤️❤️
SPICE 🌶️🌶️🌶️
ON KINDLE UNLIMITED!
WHAT I LIKED
I really liked the supporting characters and the layers they brought to the story. I enjoyed the world building and the easy to follow story. It’s a fun easy read.
WHAT I DISLIKED
I disliked the choices Revna makes. I don’t like that she made promises and then went back on her word. She gives up on herself completely and that doesn’t seem the fit with her character. She needs to make better choices!
TROPES
Slow burn romance
Norse Mythology
Rekindled romance
Prophecy
Gods and mortals
Strong FMC
found family
Forced proximity
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