Skadi's world is shattered when an empire razes her home. Fleeing to her uncle's remote stronghold on the dreaded Draugr Coast, she vows to become a shieldmaiden and avenge her kin. But there's a truth she keeps she has already died once, only to be resurrected by a cruel goddess, and gifted with the power to weave fate itself.
Amidst a landscape where carnivorous mermaids lurk in icy waters, undead haunt the mist-laden mountains, and gods walk among mortals, Skadi's quest for vengeance unfolds. Skadi's Saga is a fierce saga of revenge, rebirth, and the brutal beauty of Norse myth.
Thanks for visiting my page! I'm Phil Tucker, a Brazilian/Brit who currently resides in Asheville, NC, where I resist the siren call of the forests and mountains to sit inside and hammer away on my laptop.
The Hall of the Jotunn Queen: Skadi's Saga By Phil Tucker This had the feel of a female warrior viking that wants to be a war maiden while the men in power just want her to shut up and mind the men. She has to work twice as hard, and she still can't trust the men's words. Lots of action and thrills. It's a fantasy with giants, gods, trolls, etc. I am frail and old. I was frail when I was young, too, but while reading this, I wanted to be so strong to help her! Lol. I will try to follow this series.
Norse Mythology setting, a fierce heroine, and an originally beautiful magic system.
Skadi is the daughter of a jarl who wants to become a shield-maiden (female warrior) and not a peace-weaver (aka arranged-marriage wife). Phil writes her as a wholesomely strong, stubborn, loyal, and uncompromising heroine, who puts in the hard work. She is also "quick on her feet" and can take risks, for which she's repaid with a healthy dose of luck from the gods she can further gamble with. She's a wonderfully solid-written neutral character of a woman who has ambitions only men are allowed to have, and the author never falls into any stereotypes while writing his book from a female protagonist's point of view.
We get a beautiful magic system based on the golden thread of destiny (wyrd) of the Norns and the Gods. I'm rather new to Norse mythology, to be honest, and I chose to read this book to see how Phil would impress me this time around, but I think his personal touch is building on it to make a magic system of his own out of it. Rather than just having a long or short golden thread, heroes can be bestowed additional threads, as they please the gods with their brave and daring actions, and these in turn can be used to help escape impossible situations or make sure an impossible attack is a hit. What even heroes usually can't do, is see how many threads they have to risk, as they temporarily disappear once used, and after they are all expended, even heroes die. That is what only Wyrd Weavers can do.
The writing style is grounded and meticulous. After reading other books for a while, I exhaled a breath of relief when I returned to Phil's style. It's refreshing, beautiful, and evocative without being uselessly flowery. The world-building is rich and solid, and by the end of the book, you feel like you can walk in it. This is a purposefully slower-paced book that sets the scene for the following ones.
Phil has a way of writing very "human" characters that are very easy to care about. He paints them in full color and brings even his secondary or tertiary characters to life. Still, when he makes you want to hug the grumpy half-troll, and wonder if the half-troll in question is so charming to be at risk of being romanticized by a group of monster-smut fans, you know he got you! In this case, though, for obvious reasons, I feel justified in loving these characters while giving up all home to remember 90% of their names, as they are all very "authentic-Norse-like" and I can't even READ them without getting short of breath for the effort.
I'm very, very curious to read more of this story, especially to learn more about the magic system!
Too often I read progression fantasy novels that keep escalating the stakes without a good foundation, but this story remains grounded in a good way. The powers make sense in a way that makes it easier to connect with as a reader. I loved the exposition and the character development, though I did find the romance develop a little too fast for my taste. Regardless, love it and can’t wait for more.
Just fond out about this books and author. Based on the premise and amazing cover art, I now have another book to drool over and start looking for online!
I liked the concept of gods and mortals and how their relationship intertwined. The use of Norse mythology also added a certain quality that made the book interesting to read. The magic system was written well, I don't think I've read anything like it before, so for me it was unique and refreshing.
This book definitely deserves more recognition, I found myself enjoying various aspects of the book, from character interactions to action packed scenes then the little moments of emotions, these were all done well.
Another genre, another winner from Phil Tucker (4.5/5) SPOILER FREE REVIEW
First of all can I say for those unfamiliar with his work: whether it be Progression Fantasy (the Immortal Great Souls); Epic Fantasy (Chronicles of the Black Gate, Godsblood);Lit RPG (Throne Hunters, Euphoria Online, Dawn of the Void); or Progression Sci-Fi...um...sports? (Gods of the Game) - I have never had anything but a great time with a Phil Tucker book or series. Well rounded characters and great character interaction, innovative and unique world building, and great prose are in full evidence in all of his work.
For those who have read his previous series, by way of reference point I'd say that Immortal Great Souls, Throne Hunters and Black Gate are my favourites (though they are all really good)
In Skadi's Saga he turns his hand to pseudo Norse Mythology, and as with every other fantasy genre he's written in, he manages to follow the tropes while still crafting an interesting and engaging story. If you like Vikings and Norse Mythology, there's more than enough Gods, Giants, longships, magic weapons, Ice, and snow here to take you to a very happy (if bloody and chilly) place (though I spent way too much time scratching my head and pondering the physical mechanics that result in half-trolls and half-Giants). Even if you aren't familiar with that mythos it's still a great fast-paced fantasy adventure
This is probably the most tightly plotted book I've read of Tucker's and there wasn't a scene that felt superfluous or dragged. On the other hand, the characters aren't as well rounded as in his other books, though there's still enough there to keep the pages turning (fast). There was one pivotal event that had an impact on Skadi that I felt was unearned and overwrought given the events and relationship beats leading up to it but not enough to ruin my enjoyment.
I'd rate this a solid 4-4.5 and it sits comfortably for me in the top 3rd of Phil Tucker's output. I'd rate it below Immortal Great Souls, Black Gate, and Throne Hunters, but above everything else - maybe equal to or a hair ahead of Gods of the Game.
Read any Phil Tucker book and you are in for a good time but if this is your first, it's a great place to start. Find your favourite reading spot, crank up Led Zepplin's "the Immigrant Song" and prepare to enjoy!
Norse Mythology setting, a fierce heroine, and an originally beautiful magic system.
Skadi is the daughter of a jarl who wants to become a shield-maiden (female warrior) and not a peace-weaver (aka arranged-marriage wife). Phil writes her as a wholesomely strong, stubborn, loyal, and uncompromising heroine, who puts in the hard work. She is also "quick on her feet" and can take risks, for which she's repaid with a healthy dose of luck from the gods she can further gamble with. She's a wonderfully solid-written neutral character of a woman who has ambitions only men are allowed to have, and the author never falls into any stereotypes while writing his book from a female protagonist's point of view.
We get a beautiful magic system based on the golden thread of destiny (wyrd) of the Norns and the Gods. I'm rather new to Norse mythology, to be honest, and I chose to read this book to see how Phil would impress me this time around, but I think his personal touch is building on it to make a magic system of his own out of it. Rather than just having a long or short golden thread, heroes can be bestowed additional threads, as they please the gods with their brave and daring actions, and these in turn can be used to help escape impossible situations or make sure an impossible attack is a hit. What even heroes usually can't do, is see how many threads they have to risk, as they temporarily disappear once used, and after they are all expended, even heroes die. That is what only Wyrd Weavers can do.
The writing style is grounded and meticulous. After reading other books for a while, I exhaled a breath of relief when I returned to Phil's style. It's refreshing, beautiful, and evocative without being uselessly flowery. The world-building is rich and solid, and by the end of the book, you feel like you can walk in it. This is a purposefully slower-paced book that sets the scene for the following ones.
Phil has a way of writing very "human" characters that are very easy to care about. He paints them in full color and brings even his secondary or tertiary characters to life. Still, when he makes you want to hug the grumpy half-troll, and wonder if the half-troll in question is so charming to be at risk of being romanticized by a group of monster-smut fans, you know he got you! In this case, though, for obvious reasons, I feel justified in loving these characters while giving up all home to remember 90% of their names, as they are all very "authentic-Norse-like" and I can't even READ them without getting short of breath for the effort.
I'm very, very curious to read more of this story, especially to learn more about the magic system!
I feel like there are so many fantasy series with like wizard schools, superheros or cultivation systems, its rare to find a unique setting and magic system to explore but thats what Skadi's saga is. Its viking fantasy with all the gods and raiding and fighting you could possibly hope for. Its progression fantasy, focused on the growth of Skadi and friends as they try to survive in the brutal viking world and gain strength enough to exact vengeance on the world dominating empire that stole their family and homes from them.
While the broad strokes are nothing new, the setting and magic offer fertile ground that few other series have explored. Add to that, unique and interesting characters, witty dialogue and a creative and intriguing plot and you have a surefire winner.
This book is a clear 5/5 for me, similar quality to bastion but a bit shorter as far as its first arc goes.
Фил Тъкър прави опит за едно малко по-различно лит-рпг (това е литература, в която са вплетени елементи на рпг-игрите, обичайно действието се развива в свят, в който има някаква "система" даваща възможност хората да качват нива и способностите им имат числово изражение).
Идеята му се развива добре съобразно скандинавската митология, но действието му е доста мудно, линейно и му липсват както живият образ на главната героиня, така и глобалният поглед върху събитията и описвания свят, които да ме зарибят да чета нататък.
Phil Tucker masterfully crafted a truly captivating tale set in a tumultuous Nordic period. His story telling absolutely captures the imagination. The characters are larger than life. All manner of mythical characters are encountered. The tale is a roller coaster ride of thrills and emotions. I am absolutely looking forward to reading the second book to see what awaits Skadi and her Crew.
Fantastic novel with gripping characters and a harshly beautiful world! Phil Tucker never disappoints, and this book is a great start to a new (and hopefully long running) series!
Very impressive book that combines creative worldbuilding, Norse mythology and fast-paced adventure.
The protagonist, Skadi Styrbjörnsdóttir is one of the most impressive main characters I have come across in this genre.
The book opens with an explosive betrayal and things only get more violent from there. When a prospective love-interest tries to threaten Skadi into a treacherous alliance, what does she do? Give in to a life of misery? Come up with a diplomatic solution? Of course not!
‘Skadi drew her hatchet from its loop at her waist, took a single step forward, and buried its gleaming edge in Naddr’s face. The blade bit deep as it broke the architecture of his skull.’
Beautiful!
The scope of this story is immense, and in the first book we see but the first few steps of Skadi’s journey. Nevertheless, what I saw here has already convinced me to devour the rest of the series, and chances are that you’d be equally engrossed.
The start of another great series by the author and makes for an engaging read where you waiting to see the take unfold. Eagerly looking forward to the next installment. In this series, Phil employs a novel magic system that is both exciting and offers great room for growth without allowing for such over powered MC that the story behind becomes moot. I'm shocked this hasn't been a greater hit and definitely worth the read while waiting for the next Immortal great souls book
I don't get it, why isn't this book better received. Its a good story with interesting characters who partake in some awesome adventures. So why is Phil having such a hard time getting people to read it. Come on people do yourself a favor and read this book.
Tucker has penned a truly amazing, engaging, and adventuresome Norse mythology story surrounding heroine Skadi. Battle scenes are so well written that you feel exhausted at the conclusion of each fight, just like the characters. Tucker is able to weave warmth and empathy throughout his tale of Skadi’s trials and tribulations. Well balanced and energetic! Bring on her next saga!
I have spent some time in Norway with vikings - and cam confirm this is how they like to live even now! Skadi is a great character, lots of action, and cannot wait for book 2 ( although poor publishing processes has delayed book 2 by about 7 weeks and counting). Go for Bastion by Phil Tucker If you haven't already whilst you wait, or by head off to the black gate series. Big Phil won't let you down - I just wish he could write even faster :-)
This is a fantastic series debut. The plot is compelling and based in Norse mythology, there is character development and growth, pacing is appropriate, and just a great story overall. I’d recommend this to all fans in the genre, and I’m looking forward to the next book!
I loved Skadi's Saga! The heroine, the world, the monsters, the epic battle scenes.... everything was awesome. It's one of those books that you don't want to put down until it's over. The life-saving twist was very well done and introduced another fun dimension to the story. Looking forward to Book 2!
Phil does it again! The story features a strong lead character, fantastic world building and narrative, interesting characters, and a more novel progression/magic system than what is typically seen, all set in a Norse mythology type environment. Eagerly awaiting book 2, and would recommend to all fans of the genre.