The Elsker Saga Box Set

The Elsker Saga #0.5-3

by S.T. Bende

The first three books of The Elsker Saga, plus the bonus novella Tur.

Elsker: The Elsker Saga, Book One

Kristia Tostenson prefers Earl Grey to Grey Goose and book clubs to nightclubs. But when she transfers from her one-stoplight Oregon town to Cardiff University in Wales, she falls in love with Ull Myhr. Her new boyfriend isn’t exactly what she was expecting. His cashmere sweaters and old world charm mask a warrior who's spent an eternity fighting for his very existence. Ull is an honest-to-goodness Norse god — an immortal assassin fated to die at Ragnarok, the battle destined to destroy Asgard and Earth. On top of being marked for death, Asgardian law prohibits Ull from tying his fate to a mortal. No matter what she feels for Ull, Kristia knows she's the one thing he can never have.

With Ragnarok on the horizon and a lunatic haunting her dreams, Kristia has to find a way to convince Ull that breaking the rules is the only way to survive; that defying the order he's sworn to uphold is their only chance to be together. And when someone starts asking the wrong questions, Kristia realizes the crazy visions she's had all her life might be the key to saving their realms... even if they end up costing her her life.

Endre: The Elsker Saga, Book Two

Sometimes, finding your destiny means doing the exact opposite of what The Fates have planned.

Winning the heart of an immortal assassin was a dream come true for Kristia Tostenson. Now she’s caught in a whirlwind of wedding plans, goddess lessons, and stolen kisses with her fiancé. But her decision to become immortal could end in heartbreak—not only for Kristia, but also for the god who loves her. While Ull would do anything to protect his bride, even the God of Winter is powerless against the Norse apocalypse.

Ragnarok is coming. And the gods aren’t even close to ready.

Tro: The Elsker Saga, Book Three

Sometimes you just have to believe.

Finding her destiny nearly cost her everything. Kristia knows she can handle whatever The Fates throw at her next—including her long-awaited honeymoon with the God of Winter. But as things heat up between Kristia and Ull, a frost settles over Asgard. An unexpected death marks the beginning of the end, much earlier than anyone expected. Kristia’s barely begun to understand what she’s capable of, and controlling her powers seems completely out of her grasp. With her new family fighting for their lives, and Ull fighting for their future, Kristia has to make a devastating choice: preserve the life she loves, or protect the god she can’t live without?

Bonus Novella:
Tur: An Elsker Saga Prequel

Inga Andersson is the envy of every girl in Asgard. On the surface she has it all -- great friends, a job as Odin’s personal fight choreographer, and a happy ever after with her realm’s hottest assassin. But when evil invades Asgard, her perfect world comes crashing down. Someone is planning to kill off the gods, and Inga’s best friend Ull is first on their list. With the Norse apocalypse a nanosecond away, Inga has to decide how she’ll spend her final moments of freedom. Because from the moment this battle begins, Inga’s happily ever after will be nothing more than a memory.

Some things are worth fighting for.

Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Fiction, Mythology

712 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 12, 2014

About the author

Before finding domestic bliss in suburbia, S.T. Bende lived in Manhattan Beach (where she became overly fond of Peet’s Coffee) and studied Shakespeare in Europe… where she became overly fond of McVitie's cookies.

Her Scandinavian heritage and a very patient Norwegian teacher inspired her YA Norse fantasy series' (Viking Academy, Ære Saga, Elsker Saga, and Alfheim Academy). And her deep love of a galaxy far, far away led to her writing children's books for the Star Wars franchise. As an experienced IP writer, she's written multiple books published by Disney-Lucasfilm Press and its licensees, and looks to expand into additional beloved IP projects.

When she's not creating stories, S.T. dreams of skiing on Jotunheim and Hoth.

Find S.T. on her website (www.stbende.com), her newsletter (http://smarturl.it/BendeNewsletter), or on Twitter @stbende.

Reviews

[Vered · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the first book in a collection, and rather enjoyed it. The humor, the cute thing going on between Kristia and Ull. So I bought the box set. It was good but... The romance part got annoying. I mean, how many times do we have to read that she thinks he's over the top amazing blah blah blah, and he's a gentleman and doesn't want to do anything more than drive her nuts with his amazing kisses. There's a bit of Twilight in the overall plot line: human girl meets supernatural boy; girl crushes on boy and thinks she's not good enough; somehow, boy gets over himself long enough to go with girl; girl becomes supernatural to be with boy. You get the picture. I'd still give it 4 stars, except the overdone romance aspect.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Read

I enjoyed reading all of the Elsker Saga books. The author imaginatively wove Norse mythology and present day together, using fantasy creations to make them fit. We meet all the key players in Norse mythology and the narrative revolves around them. The way she describes Loki, I was reminded of the character Rumplestiltskin on TV's Once Upon a Time series. I could have done with fewer descriptions of smouldering looks and kisses on the neck, but all-in-all a good book.

[Heather De Los Reyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rated the first book a 4 because I found it hard to get into the first few chapters but I rated the while series a 5 because the series came together really well and I ended up loving it. It's about Norse God's and the evil Loki. My favorite mythology so it naturally grabbed me when I started reading it. It works at a steady pace to keep the reader interested yet giving enough information to keep you wanting more. I absolutely loved the ending to it and was surprised it didn't just end and leave you slightly guessing like most books do.

[[ J o ]]

(Read the first book in the The Elsker Saga series, 'Tur'. Didn't enjoy, therefore will not be continuing with the series.)

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the first book, Elsker, in the Gods and Mortals anthology. Upon completion I immediately purchased this box set so I could find out what happens to Kristia and Ull. Gods and Mortals has been set aside for the time being, however, if I like the rest of the stories there as much as Elsker, I foresee many a book purchase in my future.

I bought this set because it was less expensive than purchasing each book separately, even excluding the cost of the already read Elsker.

I liked Elsker because the characters, at least the human ones, were believable. I have a best friend whom I can tell anything and who will push me into situations that I might not attempt on my own volition. It was great that Kristia's British flatmates were so nice and accepted the Yank, even offering assistance when she went out on a date, etc. I know its totally corny but I really like that Ull was pre-destined to love Kristia and no other. I find it a little hard to believe that he never had interaction with another female, goddess or mortal, in his 800 year existence but, hey, it's a story.

So I finished Endre last night. I know I had written a partial review of this but apparently forgot to save it. Kristia throws a hissy fit when she finds out that Ull has asked his friends to watch over her when he's not with her. Ull has been around for 800 years or so and knows who and what the enemies are. (BTW, I don't recall mention that he had been an assassin in Elsker) Kristia in her ignorance insists that she can take care of herself and lambastes Ull for his efforts to keep her alive. I'm beginning to realize that I really don't like teenage girls on the cusp of adulthood. Or at least how they are portrayed. Kristia should thank her lucky stars that she has survived so far in her dealings with Elfie. He darn near succeeds in obliterating her in one of her dreams/visions. I can't remember if what else I know of this story was in this book or...

...Tro.

At last, the wedding and honeymoon. Ms. Bende up to this point has been pretty detailed in her description of Kristia and Ull's romantic encounters. So, they're married and Ull can throw out his chivalrous mannerisms and at long last consummate their relationship. We make it to the bedroom where he rips off his shirt and Kristia shimmies out of her dress. Oh boy. Next thing you know they are on a beach. I've been robbed.

Prior to the wedding Kristia endures a somewhat sadistic procedure to become the goddess she was meant to be. Of course she decides to hide what it entails from Ull because although she demands complete disclosure from him, apparently that agreement only flows one way.

OMG, if Ull tells Kristia one more time that she is his reason for living I think I will pitch my Kindle out the window. We've got it, we know it, we don't want to hear it anymore. He keeps asking her over and over if she will consider hiding away somewhere safe with him. Some hero he is - leave the rest of the gods and goddesses to fight the big battle so he can selfishly bill and coo with Kristia. Not cool, Ull.

Kristia and Ull engage in deep kissing with tongue whilst in the middle of the battle? I don't think so. I recall calling out this behavior in another book I've read.

If you like your stories wrapped up with a big bow you will love this ending. Me, not so much. However, Hel got away and was never mentioned again. So maybe this wasn't such a tidy ending after all.

Tur: Well, if you didn't get enough of Kristia and Ull's romance you will be delighted to find the exact same dialogue between Gunnar and Inga. I haven't found a storyline yet, just lots of kissing and allusions to what happens between the sheets. Way overdone to the point that it is B-O-R-I-N-G.
I am curious as to how Inga knew Kristia's name and that she was destined to be Ull's soulmate before ever meeting her. A few more details would be appreciated.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was not my first go around with the books. I just never read them all in one shot. My original opinion stands. I loved how the story intertwines the characters and stories of Norse myths into a modern day story. The story progresses quite nicely from beginning to end. It is fulfilling to have a complete story with no loose ends. I also like that there could be more but this arc is finished. The characters are fun and likable. The romance is not in your face and I like it. There is a gentlemanly quality to Ull that is refreshing. For some reason the story will have you craving waffles, cookies, winter, and snow. Maybe even dream of Norse gods, blonde, strong, blue eyes (fanning self). All I can say is this was well worth it the first time and still worth it the second time.

[Erin Penn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Costing as much as one romance book, well, this really is equal in length to one romance book with one side story about the couple's best friends.
Interesting take on Norse mythos, this New Adult genre romance has plenty of tease. The final wrapup in the third book is a little quick, feeling like it should have been expanded into a fourth book instead of being a one chapter afterthought. The first two books are really good.

[Junette Gausman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it for the most part. Weaving the Norse Mythology and characters into a modern setting worked for me and I wanted to finish the story to find out what happened. The love scenes were a little redundant (how many times is she going to wrap her fingers in his hair so that it also wraps around her ring...)so that part left me flat. But the action was pretty good and I could imagine most of it with the descriptions.

[Ash Kemp · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is definitely a fun read, and one for any who enjoy a bit of a spin on the famous Norse myths. Ull, Kristia and the gang will delight your sense and tickle your funny bone, leaving you all warm and fuzzy (if not craving some waffles and apple tarts!) Grab it today and enjoy and epic, heroic journey!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

really addictive

I could not put this series down! Loved it! I would love to read more of this series and other books from this author.

[Cassey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the best writing or editing, but something about the series grabbed me. Overall a pretty enjoyable read.

[Sabrina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the first book Elsker, which I enjoyed. It made me curious enough to buy the full box set and continue the characters journey. Unfortunately, there were quite a few things that annoyed me. Hence the 3 starts.

Liked:
- The interactions between Kristia and her friends
- Norse Mythology

Disliked:
- The over the top romance between Kristia & Ull. The whole "I'm not good enough for you" and "you're my whole life" blablabla. It was just toooo much for me. If I hear one more time what colour Ull's eyes are, I'll poke them out myself.
- Getting married at 18 to a guy you hardly know.... Okay, so what if it's destined... Maybe take your time and enjoy the dating part as they'll never get it back. On that note: Getting a baby within a span of a year you meet a guy, get married and will live an eternity?! Can we tone it down a little! She's freaking 18 years old
- The ending is like eating a spoon of sugar. Too sweet for my liking... everything just magically resolved itself. I like a Happy Ending, but not everything needs to be resolved and there can be a bit of drama. It makes everything more real.

[Sadie Braxton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this trilogy. It was a nice clean, soft read. Kristia was likeable and a great heroin. Ull made me look at my husband with disappointment (it's okay, they can't all be Norse gods). This was a great read for anyone into Norse mythology or romance with a twist.
My only criticism is that the bulk of the latter two books and the last half of the first book are filled with repetitive romantic situations. I was really interested in the battle to come and kind of let down by the quick ending.
It was a nice repose from harsher novels, I would have just preferred a little more drama as that was my expectation from the first book in the series.

[L.B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall a sweet and exciting series that links the norse gods with the human realm. Here are my reviews book by book...

Tur: A short, but vivid outside view into the Elsker saga. Having read all the Elsker saga books, which are narrated from Kristia's point of view, it was interesting to get a distinctly different perspective from Inga. This novella took less than an hour to read, with the help that the characters are already more or less developed in the other books. Nonetheless, in its few pages, S.T. Bende was able to bring Inga's personality--slightly more catty, fierce and lascivious than Kristia's--in the fight scenes with her boys, her stand-offs with Odin and her tangy romance with Gunnar. I enjoyed seeing the appearance of Kristia in Ull's life from the position of one of his best friends. Inga also gives a view into Asgard, showing the exciting daily lives and vicious politics of Ms Bende's Norse gods and goddesses. If you have read/are reading the Elsker saga, I recommend this book; it's quick read, and well worth seeing the Elsker world from another point of view. And if you haven't read the Elsker saga, this short, fun introduction to S.T. Bende's work will suck you in.

Elsker: Kristia is an awkward, small-town girl from Nehalem, Oregon. With encouragement from her sassy friend Ardis, she attempts her first adventure away from home: study abroad at Cardiff University in Wales, where no one knows about her crazy visions. What starts out being a big step for her soon turns into one of her typical stumbles at the unexpected romance with the hot, detached Norse, Ull Myhr. It is a surprise for both of them when she stumbles straight into his heart. The surprise for Kristia? Her mythology class isn't so mythical. And for Ull? He's surprised to find himself allowing (wanting) someone else in his complicated life. This first book in the Elsker Saga is a whirlwind introduction to Norse mythology, which I always enjoy, with little bits of Norwegian adding some authenticity to the tales. Although their interactions were sweet, I had a bit of a hard time accepting the rapid tumble the main characters take into each other's lives (instalove); it was a little jarring how quickly an awkward, small-town girl with no ambitions or expectations to meet any guy (let alone the local hunk who is actively hostile towards her at first) jumps into Ull's life. Besides this, the main characters are well-developed. Written from Kristia's point of view, it's quite easy to share her sudden, overwhelming emotions and to empathize with her decision-making struggles, whereas Ull retains a mysterious quality that intrigues. S.T. Bende writes with vivid, clear descriptions and a dramatic, fluid plot that alternates between very rapid and a bit slow but nonetheless kept me engaged throughout. But be warned! Have the second book ready, because with such a cliffhanger, you'll be wishing you had Kristia's visions to know what the fate of the couple and their worlds will be...

Endre: The second in the Elsker series seems to be more of a transition than a story in itself. A little slower than the first book, in Endre we follow Kristia as she acclimates her life with Ull, and all that being with a Norse god entails. Like the first, it is well-written with interesting characters and a beautiful new insight to Norse mythology. This book mainly focuses on the interactions between the couple--and those who try to hinder their being together--and their feelings for each other, with a few minor side-stories thrown in regarding Kristia's visions and her impending role as The Seer. But these seem to be more set-up and anticipation-building than action in their purpose here. That said, it's a quick read and I am really looking forward to seeing what excitement arises in Ull and Kristia's future together.

Tro: The conclusion to the Elsker series is almost the conclusion of the Norse gods and their realms as this final tale in Kristia and Ull's story weaves around Ragnarok. The action doesn't begin until about halfway through the book. The first half is a little slower, taking place on Kristia and Ull's honeymoon while Kristia acclamates to being The Seer and a new goddess, with all the new powers and strengths that contains. If you loved the swoon-worthy romance of the hotness that is Norse god of Winter, Ull Myrh, then this book--particularly the beginning--is for you. If, however, you're like me and love the heart-pounding twists and turns of a wall-thought-out action-rich plot, then you will enjoy the latter part of the book when Kristia and all her friends have to step up and fight the evil bringing about Ragnarok. Although a little predictable at times, the pace of the plot during the fighting was fast and the anticipation built. The imagery in these scenes which take place in various realms was well described by S.T. Bende and once again she gives a fascinating take on Norse mythology in the modern world. My only qualm was that the ending seemed a bit rushed and too 'perfectly planned,' wherein the last remaining dangling thread threatening the safety and well-being of Kristia, Ull and their loved ones was fixed my merely finding the right thing at exactly the right time. That said, I may be a little biased against any ending S.T. Bende would've done because I enjoyed this series and would read more about the promising, but also potentially dangerous future Ull and Kristia now face, having survived Ragnarok together. Overall, a good conclusion to a greater series.

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first book but, as the series progressed, I got frustrated at the slow pace. It kept me with the promise of action, the importance of the prophesied seer, the danger of romance with a god prophesied to die, etc. That was finally delivered, but only after a lot of dating scenes, wardrobe choosing, wedding preparations, worrying and talking. I know there are readers who love that stuff. This is their kind of book. Unfortunately, it isn't mine. I would have cut most of that out and likely been left with one, very tight, adventure/romance with non-stop action.

[Kayla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall it was a tad much. Dragging it out to three books and a novella was not necessary. Kristia read like a teenager in quite a few spots of the book. I get it she’s only 19. But some parts of the book were a little whiny for me. We get that he’s beautiful and she loves him because it’s constantly mentioned. Once or twice is enough. Clearly through actions he has a vast amount of feelings for her. Move on. Overall it was decent. I found myself skimming the last book just to get to the end. Easily forgettable.

[Stephanie Serrano Hargrove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Seriez!

Five stars for great story and awesome romance!!
Love scenes are very well played. No graphic sex but you knew what was happeny.
Plus rarely and cussing just the simple words and few of them
I always believe if you need to cuss that is because u couldn't think of a better term. Awesome job.

[Kati · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is the last thing I will ever pick up from this author. I only forced myself to finish it because I paid for it.

This whole premise sounded interesting but I couldn't get past the MarySueness of the main character Kristia. She's so cool! Everyone loves her! Except Odin! He won't let her become a goddess! But she has visions! She changes his mind! And now he loves her! She saves the world! And Asgard! And adverts Ragnarok! She's the hero!

Yeah this sucked.

[Sydney Perkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Creative world and cute story!

Enjoyed the world, characters, and plot!! Wishing their was more action, and Ull was super annoying in the last book. I did feel that the books could have been segmented differently, allowing for more story building instead of just people have conversations. Will be looking into the author's other series!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging

Well written and great pace. I very much enjoyed the subject matter and will almost always read anything about the old Gods. Very sweet story, nice relationship building, overall a great read.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book

This book was better then I expected it to be. It really kept my attention and I couldn't put it down. The writer wrote was such detail that you could visualize everything going on.

[Dee Estes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic must read!

I absolutely loved the moment I picked up my reader and got lost in time as the adventure, romance, and excitement carried me away! Couldn't put it down!!! Thank you.

[DaisyLynneReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful series!

This a great series involving Norse mythology. A great story of friendship and a love of a life time. Filled with mystery, battles, and laughter. You will not want to put it down once you start and you will still be begging for more at the end.

[Smhlavelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoy the series

I really did enjoy the series. However one question bothered me throughout the whole thing, this girl is away from home for the first time and is 18 and gets engaged/married and none of her friends question it... If you can get past that, it is a good story.

[Revka · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointing

It felt as though a modern American couple were transplanted into Asgard. There was too much focus on "romance" (although I appreciated that what I read was neither graphic nor explicit) and not enough Norse mythology.

[Jordan Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this saga, couldn’t put it down and had to buy the whole set as soon as possible. It was a great Christmas gift to myself. I actually wanted to find an audiobook version for my friend who is blind and was wondering if you had any plans to do something like that for this book?

[Desiree Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read

Loved the characters, the building of friendships & relationships, overcoming of trials, the acceptance of responsibility & duty, sacrifice for the good of community & loved ones. Couldn't stop reading.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series!

S.T. Bende is a great author. You can't help but fall in love with her characters and their story! This series is a must read!

[Emmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

.


A well written book keeping you in suspense all the way. It also gives an inside into Norse Mythology. Very entertainig and a good read

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elsker

This was a great little story draws you and keeps you entertained through the whole line. Love some good Norse mythology