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The Ragnarok Era #2
The Mists of Niflheim
The Mist Spreads …
Idunn’s apples rendered Odin the god-king of his harsh lands. Now Idunn calls upon him to fulfill a greater destiny: a sojourn to the islands of the gods where he must overthrow those his people have long worshipped.
The numerous petty kingdoms and hostile armies that lay in Odin’s way pale before the greater threat: the vengeful Children of Mist, sorcerers armed with daunting skills and able to unleash draugar, trolls, and the most horrific terrors of Hel. Odin must overcome these Otherworldly foes lest his people perish having never beheld the islands of paradise.
Idunn’s apples rendered Odin the god-king of his harsh lands. Now Idunn calls upon him to fulfill a greater destiny: a sojourn to the islands of the gods where he must overthrow those his people have long worshipped.
The numerous petty kingdoms and hostile armies that lay in Odin’s way pale before the greater threat: the vengeful Children of Mist, sorcerers armed with daunting skills and able to unleash draugar, trolls, and the most horrific terrors of Hel. Odin must overcome these Otherworldly foes lest his people perish having never beheld the islands of paradise.
456 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2015
62 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Matt Larkin
102 books174 followersAlong with his wife and daughter, Matt lives as a digital nomad, traveling the world while researching for his novels. He reads approximately a bazillion books a year, loves video games, and relaxes by binge watching Netflix with his wife.
Matt writes retellings of mythology as dark, gritty fantasy. His passions of myths, philosophy, and history inform his series. He strives to combine gut-wrenching action with thought-provoking ideas and culturally resonant stories.
As a child, Matt read The Lord of the Rings with his parents. This sparked a lifelong obsession with fantasy and started him on a path of discovering the roots of fantasy through mythology. In exploration of these ideas, the Eschaton Cycle was born—a universe of dark fantasy where all myths and legends play out.
Matt writes retellings of mythology as dark, gritty fantasy. His passions of myths, philosophy, and history inform his series. He strives to combine gut-wrenching action with thought-provoking ideas and culturally resonant stories.
As a child, Matt read The Lord of the Rings with his parents. This sparked a lifelong obsession with fantasy and started him on a path of discovering the roots of fantasy through mythology. In exploration of these ideas, the Eschaton Cycle was born—a universe of dark fantasy where all myths and legends play out.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
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May 4, 2022I really want to binge read this series but this is a series that one savours ever so slowly, right down to the last page.
2nd read Edit: Said it before, I’ll say it again: Hate audiobooks.
2nd read Edit: Said it before, I’ll say it again: Hate audiobooks.
April 15, 2018
HARD HITTING ACTION???
If you're looking for an action packed, adrenaline pumping, pulse racing, hard hitting, unexpected surprises, danger, where life hangs in the balance read, its right here. Matt once again pulled me into his imagination with a staggering plot that held my attention with a force that can't be beat. I was caught off guard with the realism of his characters and the scenes that were explosive. Talk about the ride of your life. Man. Matt's genius with his adventures is limitless and broad to say the least. Great job Matt and thanks for sharing.
If you're looking for an action packed, adrenaline pumping, pulse racing, hard hitting, unexpected surprises, danger, where life hangs in the balance read, its right here. Matt once again pulled me into his imagination with a staggering plot that held my attention with a force that can't be beat. I was caught off guard with the realism of his characters and the scenes that were explosive. Talk about the ride of your life. Man. Matt's genius with his adventures is limitless and broad to say the least. Great job Matt and thanks for sharing.
March 15, 2023
I like puzzles. A lot. So much so that if I read a book (or, in this case, a series) that interconnects and has twists and turns and puzzles, I am over the moon. Such it is with Matt Larkin’s Ragnarok Era series, specifically The Mists of Niflheim.
1. Thoughts on the plot
It’s been a while since I’ve read the first book in this series, so it took me a minute to remember what had happened. But, if you’re at all familiar with Norse mythology, then this book makes perfect sense. I like the blend of the strangeness of the Norse myths (and let’s be honest, some are quite odd) with the dark realities of trying to survive. I think it works very well, especially the pieces where Odin ventures deep into the ether.
And, of course, the book ends on a dramatic bit that just…I mean…COME ON! Now I have to go read the next one or be severely disappointed that I don’t know what’s going to happen next.
2. Thoughts on the characters
As always with mythology retellings, it can be difficult to have the characters become something more than the stereotype that they were made in the original myths. I think this whole series does quite well at taking a base character and making them something more, something deeper. Tyr especially brought this out, and I really loved the development. I think Sigyn could have used a bit more depth, but frankly, where she was left at the end of the book promises a great deal of depth.
3. Favourite part
I know that this is accurate to the mythology, but Tyr’s sword being named Gramr made me smile every time. A god of war, battling with grammar. It just warmed my writerly heart. Yes, I know, I know, mythology and homonyms and all that. But still.
4. Critique
My only real critique is that I couldn’t quite remember what had happened in the first book, so it took a minute to get rolling into the story. But that’s mostly on me and the fact that I read the other book a while back. Definitely do not go into this wondering, though!
Overall, I am perhaps far too eager for the next book. Excellent, as always!
1. Thoughts on the plot
It’s been a while since I’ve read the first book in this series, so it took me a minute to remember what had happened. But, if you’re at all familiar with Norse mythology, then this book makes perfect sense. I like the blend of the strangeness of the Norse myths (and let’s be honest, some are quite odd) with the dark realities of trying to survive. I think it works very well, especially the pieces where Odin ventures deep into the ether.
And, of course, the book ends on a dramatic bit that just…I mean…COME ON! Now I have to go read the next one or be severely disappointed that I don’t know what’s going to happen next.
2. Thoughts on the characters
As always with mythology retellings, it can be difficult to have the characters become something more than the stereotype that they were made in the original myths. I think this whole series does quite well at taking a base character and making them something more, something deeper. Tyr especially brought this out, and I really loved the development. I think Sigyn could have used a bit more depth, but frankly, where she was left at the end of the book promises a great deal of depth.
3. Favourite part
I know that this is accurate to the mythology, but Tyr’s sword being named Gramr made me smile every time. A god of war, battling with grammar. It just warmed my writerly heart. Yes, I know, I know, mythology and homonyms and all that. But still.
4. Critique
My only real critique is that I couldn’t quite remember what had happened in the first book, so it took a minute to get rolling into the story. But that’s mostly on me and the fact that I read the other book a while back. Definitely do not go into this wondering, though!
Overall, I am perhaps far too eager for the next book. Excellent, as always!
May 16, 2024
Another great entry in this proving-to-be-epic series.
A lot more is revealed of Loki in this book, while also balancing the continued mystery surrounding him. This is done in a superb way, as I think letting it all out right away would ruin some of the promise of an anti-hero is is hinting to be.
Larkin does a great job weaving details in this story to align with elements we know in norse mythology. (for example, we all know the god Odin to be an old man, how does he get to that?)
Big fan of the interpretations of Draugr in this as well.
The cameo introduction in the final Gudrun scene has me anxious for the next book, though i'm unsure of the characterization....
All in all this is a great series. Gonna keep reading!
Join the RK King readers' list for an exclusive FREE short story, plus inside info, musings, promos and more: RK King Writes
A lot more is revealed of Loki in this book, while also balancing the continued mystery surrounding him. This is done in a superb way, as I think letting it all out right away would ruin some of the promise of an anti-hero is is hinting to be.
Larkin does a great job weaving details in this story to align with elements we know in norse mythology. (for example, we all know the god Odin to be an old man, how does he get to that?)
Big fan of the interpretations of Draugr in this as well.
The cameo introduction in the final Gudrun scene has me anxious for the next book, though i'm unsure of the characterization....
All in all this is a great series. Gonna keep reading!
Join the RK King readers' list for an exclusive FREE short story, plus inside info, musings, promos and more: RK King Writes
April 11, 2018
Keeps getting better
Started out great in The Apples of Idunn and just gets better in this. Mythology meets History, I guess you might say. Odin, Frigg, Loki and all the familiar characters of Norse mythology come alive in these books, as does the world they inhabit. This was really hard to put down once I got started as it kept me pretty much on the edge of my seat.
Grab a sample and start reading.
Started out great in The Apples of Idunn and just gets better in this. Mythology meets History, I guess you might say. Odin, Frigg, Loki and all the familiar characters of Norse mythology come alive in these books, as does the world they inhabit. This was really hard to put down once I got started as it kept me pretty much on the edge of my seat.
Grab a sample and start reading.
July 16, 2018
Wonderfully wrought tale with evil,good, and ambiguous characters fighting and occasionally loving their way through the tale. Occasionally the fighting becomes tedious.
However the plot soon picks up again and off we go. I look forward to more. I wish the bond between Odin and his wife were more affectionate lying expressed.
However the plot soon picks up again and off we go. I look forward to more. I wish the bond between Odin and his wife were more affectionate lying expressed.
July 26, 2018
Great Viking Historical Fantasy
I love the author's tone for each of the characters. The world is dark and primal and really fits the story. If you are a fan of Norse mythology then do yourself a favor and read the series.
I love the author's tone for each of the characters. The world is dark and primal and really fits the story. If you are a fan of Norse mythology then do yourself a favor and read the series.
September 13, 2022
loving this series
Another amazing book. Even better than the first . Starting to get to know background history on some if the characters making it even more intriguing and complex. Can’t wait to read what happens in third instalment…
Another amazing book. Even better than the first . Starting to get to know background history on some if the characters making it even more intriguing and complex. Can’t wait to read what happens in third instalment…
November 4, 2022
The second one does a lot of what the first did well, but it wasn't quite as good as the first. There were a few sections where I felt I could have skipped it altogether. But overall, it was a fun read. I am interested to see how Odin's journey leads next.
June 11, 2023
Quite a bit of fun, actually! This battle with the evil Queen of Nifleheim is quite well crafted, with interesting twists. Loki continues to be a babyface hero, even if he does not share all he knows. Quite fun.
January 19, 2018
I have read all four books in this series and they all kept me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next. Would definitely recommend.
October 15, 2018
An exciting take.
This picks right up from the last, never missing a beat. I feel as though I was watching a movie rather than reading. Thank you Matt.
This picks right up from the last, never missing a beat. I feel as though I was watching a movie rather than reading. Thank you Matt.
August 15, 2021
Exciting!
Great reimagining of Norse mythology! Odin, Loki, Tyr and Sigyn really come alive in this dark fantasy world Larkin has crafted!
Great reimagining of Norse mythology! Odin, Loki, Tyr and Sigyn really come alive in this dark fantasy world Larkin has crafted!
April 9, 2024
More twists and action than the first one, and a lot of the initial characters were fleshed out nicely!
April 16, 2024
If you are interested in Norse mythology, these are an excellent read.
November 18, 2024
In typical literary fashion, the tension, magic and action kicked up a notch in the second book and builds towards an epic conclusion. Lots of fun to be had in this reimagining of the mythology.
November 17, 2025
I enjoyed this book It can get a bit confusing for my little brain but it's enjoyable and it's very adult I will read the next in the series
August 27, 2016
Once again, author Matt Larkin expands his Mythic Legends Chronicles by delivering the second volume in the Ragnarok Era - THE MISTS OF NIFLHEIM. Carrying on immediately from the end of the first book in this series, the author immerses us once more in the universe of the ancient Norse Gods. Odin, now having achieved Godhood, must unite the Aesir tribes in a battle to end the Fimbulwinter and bring Spring back to a world that has known only Ice and Snow for as long as any mortal can remember. Standing in his way are a legion of monsters and undead led by an ancient dying civilization. The battle to survive and save his people and the world is the driving theme of this story.
This is NOT your father's Norse mythology. Larkin has combined both the Scandinavian Eddas and the Germanic tales of Sigurd to produce a world and people that will pull you in and leave you on the edge of your seat as he weaves a tale of valor, honor, deceit, lust, loss, and joy while driving you towards the ultimate battle.
If you love tales of legends and myths, this book will surely entertain you and keep you wanting more.
This is NOT your father's Norse mythology. Larkin has combined both the Scandinavian Eddas and the Germanic tales of Sigurd to produce a world and people that will pull you in and leave you on the edge of your seat as he weaves a tale of valor, honor, deceit, lust, loss, and joy while driving you towards the ultimate battle.
If you love tales of legends and myths, this book will surely entertain you and keep you wanting more.
April 7, 2017
This is the second book in the Ragnarok Era series. This book can be read as a standalone but it makes more sense if you read the previous book. It does have a soft cliffhanger ending setting the storyline for the next book in the series. There is a lot of violence and may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.
If you didn't read the first book, The Apples of Idunn, then it might take you a few chapters to figure out the characters and the author's writing style. Stick with it as it gets easier to read and is worth it. There are many layers within this storyline and at times it's hard to keep track. I can't wait to read the next book to see what happens to these characters.
If you didn't read the first book, The Apples of Idunn, then it might take you a few chapters to figure out the characters and the author's writing style. Stick with it as it gets easier to read and is worth it. There are many layers within this storyline and at times it's hard to keep track. I can't wait to read the next book to see what happens to these characters.
April 19, 2017
A book of heroic deeds
This book like The Apples of Iddun is about Norse mythology, but written for a modern readership. I liked this better than the apples because Odin and Tyr were more fleshed out and their characters more humanised. I would recommend these books to readers of any form of mythology. There is magic epic battles and fell creatures , wicked sorceresses and even a magic 8 legged horse. Marvellous stuff.
This book like The Apples of Iddun is about Norse mythology, but written for a modern readership. I liked this better than the apples because Odin and Tyr were more fleshed out and their characters more humanised. I would recommend these books to readers of any form of mythology. There is magic epic battles and fell creatures , wicked sorceresses and even a magic 8 legged horse. Marvellous stuff.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews